Chapter Text
Doctor Strange would explain it to you the best ; any change can create a whole new universe. One microscopic difference can lead to drastic modification. On earth 61311, George Barnes died of tuberculosis on an early age. Thus, Winnifred Delmont never met him. She met Robert Delmont and lived a happy life with him, giving birth to three children. But none of them were James Barnes. In this universe, he was never born.
Steve Rogers was.
ooOOoo
All this mental health care thing didn’t exist back in the 40’s. Mental health wasn’t even a thing. His first spontaneous though when he heard about it was to scoff about the futility of it. What an eccentricity little thing, he had though derisively. But then, he had remembered all those guys back in Europe ; their hunted face and hollow eyes and hadn't wanted to scoff anymore. There wasn’t a name for that in the 40’s but now it was called PTSD apparently.
He glanced at the little grey book on his table : “To understand PTSD”. Maybe it would have done some great, back then. It certainly did for him, even though he was too proud to admit it to Dr.Raynor. The existence of this table inside his appartement was a proof of his improvement, if he said so. Three months ago except for a mattress he used only partially and the strict minimum to survive, he had nothing. Now, his appartement felt lived in. He even was the proud owner of a nice plant.
To his annoyance, Dr.Raynor had only briefly recognized his effort and had moved on another topic. Not an interesting and relevant to his situation one, as he told her. He was back from a session with her. As usual, it left him with a mix of annoyance and exhaustion that in another life he would have evacuated by knocking out a bag or some bully. These days though he had found something healthier and more enjoyable.
He grabbed a bag, checked his keys and he went out. The sun was still high in the sky and it was hot enough that he regretted having to wear long sleeves. But between that and feeling the lingering look of strangers tainted with confusion, fear or worse, recognition, the choice was easy. He made his way through the streets, rapidly reaching his destination : the Loving Shelter. Already he could hear barking and he felt his lips pulling into a smile without his conscious permission. He reached for the entrance, passing by another volunteer.
“Good day, Sergeant ! Here for a walk ?” the small elderly man greeted him.
“Yes. It’s been a while.” He nodded back politely. Jean seemed to appreciate Bucky even though they never really talked a lot.
He went inside the small aging building serving as reception. He felt himself relax a little recognizing Meredith. She was one of the few people he actually felt comfortable with. She was full of kindness and had a maturity despite her young age that made it easy to connect with her.
“Oh, hi James ! It’s good to see you”, she smiled brightly, the pleasant smell of her omega scent expressing just that. You wanna see Kitten ?”
“Hello Meredith. Yes, if there isn’t another dog in an urgent need to run around ?”
“Nuh-uh. Jean just walked Buster so you’re good to see you buddy,” she explained.
He knew his way around so she let him go for the chenil on his own. The dogs perked, immediately noticing his presence and he was greeted with excited barks. He took his time to greet a few of them, offering them sweet words and a few treats he had brought with him. He had always loved animals, playing with and petting every dog and cat he could back in his youth. HYDRA had destroyed a lot of thing for him but not this. He stopped in front of the last cage, belonging to Kitten. Kitten wasn’t, in fact, a cat. Quite the contrary as he was one of the biggest dog here, an aging German Sheppard that had a quiet temper and had a hard time to trust human being. He had eventually accepted and even appreciated Bucky’s presence but it had taken a few walks, patience and treats to get there. He had been maltreated during a long time, a few patch of scarring attesting of this fact. This quiet and scared animal had stared him with distrustful and yet lonely eyes that had remind him of Bucky himself and he had immediately felt a strong love for the dog.
“Hello my big old man,” he cooed at him crouching down, letting Kitten approach with a lazy swing of his tail. He petted him a bit, gently leashing him and he earned a few affectionate licks. Animals tended to like him too. They generally preferred omega, probably because of their softer pheromones but he liked to think he also had a certain way with them. He took out his phone to take a picture of the big dog with the intention to send it to Shuri later, knowing the princess loved to gush at his furry friend.
“There we go,” he said as they exited the chenil, letting Kitten take the lead. The familiar walk into Brooklyn always eased his nerves. He still could feel an air of familiarity despite the 70 passed years. One of the few constants of his life he could appreciate again, when his paranoia and mistrust against the world had eased a bit and Kitten was there to give him a sense of normality.
They strolled around the neighborhood before reaching the park where they ran a bit. Kitten wasn’t always down to that much exercise but today seemed to be a good day for him. They crossed a few other dogs and their owners, and these moments were always awkward for him. He kept hoping the human being wouldn’t take example on their dog when this one was approaching the two of them. They thankfully usually didn’t and he didn’t know if it was his or Kitten’s scary face or if it was just the way it was for everybody. Eventually, the dog was tiring so they went a bit slower on the walk back. He earned a few more treats and pets, Bucky appreciating the comfortable way which the dog and himself were feeling. This closeness with another being felt good. It was hard to understand and it sometime left him nauseous how he could still miss another human being’s touch after… well, after hydra.
He said goodbye to Meredith, heading quickly outside when seeing her speak amicably with another volunteer. He went back home and let himself collapse on his sofa. Yeah, he really was glad for this purchase. He checked his phone and stared in wonder at the “meme” that Shuri had sent him in response to Kitten’s photo. Something with a guy in a orange jacket that seemed to validate dogs but not a human being. He found he adapted pretty well into the future but this whole culture of humor on internet was still difficult to understand for him. Not two minutes after his reply ( a simple and adequate “?” ), the young woman was calling him.
“Heyo brother ! How are you ?” her cheerful voice greeted him. Bucky wouldn’t admit it to her directly, but he was glad for every one of her call. Himself rarely found the courage to contact her first, seeing as she was a princess and she was probably busy but she never made any negative comment about it.
“I’m fine, even though your memes are giving me headache. You ?”
“I’m good, White Wolf.” She then proceeded to explain this specific meme and the wonder of internet. He listened, more amused by her enthusiasm than by what she was saying.
She was cut in her ramble and her voice went distant, speaking with someone else. He patiently waited for her return. “You have the hi from my brother. He, too, thinks Kitten is very cute, by the way.”
He felt a happy twinge in his chest hearing about T’Challa. He held a profound respect for the leader, both for his competency as a king and as a human being. He was the man that had welcomed him inside his country, had allowed him to heal and for that he would be forever grateful. T’Challa was a good and fair man ; he was probably the only alpha Bucky never felt an ounce of nervousness around after his captivity. He sighed. He missed Wakanda and its peacefulness. He missed his goats, the people and the usefulness he felt he had.
They shared news quietly, Shuri giving him the latest gossip about some Wakande he knew and some of her research and he complained about Raynor and shared some new things he had discovered about the future. Shuri had to hang off after what seemed to be an explosion. Bucky would have worried if not for Shuri long suffering sigh and “the new intern” as a way of explanation. His evening was otherwise an eventless one spent reading The Lord of the Rings. He vaguely though at one point that he should eat something but he didn’t move to do so. It was still hard for him to think about taking regular meal and about his own hunger. One missed meal wouldn’t kill him. He would know.
He let himself drift into sleep, accepting the rare easy slide in nothingness as he remembered his assignment given by Raynor. Three good things about this day.
I saw Kitten. Shuri called. And after a bit more difficulty : my couch is really nice.
ooOOoo
In the morning, he had the surprise to see a message from Sam Wilson.
Hey, I’m in New York near Brooklyn for the day, wanna meet if you are free ?
Sam and his tentative reach out had been unexpected. Bucky had been nothing but problem for the man and he could reluctantly acknowledge he hadn’t been the nicest to him. He still wasn’t the nicest guy around to be honestly. But at least it wasn’t directed at Sam, now.
I am.
He felt a faint smile tugging at his lips and he scowled it down, annoyed with himself. That wouldn’t do if the other man knew how pleasant it was for Bucky when they met. He appreciated Sam was the plain truce. He didn’t think Sam would bother keeping contact with him after Steve left but he did. Now in hindsight it was proof of a lack of comprehension on the character that was Wilson on his part but back then it had truly surprised him. He had ignored him at first but the man had been persistent in just the right way and finally, after remembering the silent gentle support he offered on Stark's funeral and a bit of strong suggestion from Raynor, Buck had replied. He wasn’t sure they could be called friend though. They didn’t talk that much over text and they only occasionally met when Sam went in New York, which didn’t happen that often.
Nice, 5pm in front of this new coffee you wanted to try out ok for you ?
He rolled his eyes because it was just so like Wilson. He had been babbling about those fluffly pancakes or what-the fuck-ever and Bucky had just agreed that he was curious to maybe try one one day. But yeah, ok, he was the one who wanted to go there, sure.
Ok.
He smirked as he sent it, perfectly knowing what Sam though of “ok” with a point.
ooOOoo
He noticed Sam before the man noticed him, as usual. He was scrolling on his phone, leaning casually on the wall. He was in good shape, white shirt and sunglasses a nice look on him. There wasn’t a lot of people around or he would have attracted attention, Bucky though vaguely. Sam raised his head as he came near him.
“Hey old man,” he greeted with a smirk.
“I’m not old. Hi.”
“Sure, sure. Let’s go inside, I’m freacking hungry.”
It was cozy and there was only one other couple of people inside. The waitress didn’t seem to recognize either of them or if she did, she didn’t show it. He let Sam lead their quiet conversation, checking on him in his not so subtle way of his and yet it never felt forced or invasive. Their meet should be awkward but they weren’t. It was easy, with him. He didn’t try to make pointless conversation and that was something he appreciated. Bucky knew he could be moody and sometime, he snapped. What made it work so well with the other man was that he wouldn’t take offence. He’d take no shit from him and would make it clear for him but he never took it at heart or personally. And it wasn’t.
God, Bucky didn’t understand how he put up with him and sometime he wanted to thanks him, thanks him for still being there when nobody was anymore. His though irremediably led to Steve and he felt a pang in his chest. He was glad for his friend. He really was with all his heart but the fact he never would see his best friend again hurt. His relationship with the blond, while still full of love and friendship for each other, had been tense for a whole lot of reason but mostly one that Steve would never know of. He hadn’t wanted him to. Still, the man had felt the distance that once upon a time never existed and, like the martyr that he was, Steve had though it was his fault. And thus maybe, if he had handle it better, Steve would still be here.
He was pulled out of his sad rumination by their waitress bringing their food. Sam devoured his pancake in a record time while Bucky, not really hungry, cautiously took a bite out his own. With caramel and a few almond, he had to admit it wasn’t bad.
“You look like you didn’t eat for days,” he commented with an air of disgust that was only half false.
“Hey, it’s not my fault, I though I would eat something with Torres earlier.” Sam protested.
Torres was this kid Sam was sometime working with, he remembered vaguely.
“What was this meeting about, anyway?” He knew when Sam went to New York, it was usually to meet with Rhodey or other people from the army.
“Man, you wouldn’t believe it. The Norvegian’s government asked for our help. Apparently, there are ice giants roaming Oslo and wrecking havoc.”
He raised an eyebrow at this news. “Ice giant ? Really ?”
“We’ve dealt with North gods, why not ?” He hummed, not able to argue this point. “We asked Barton and apparently, those guys are called Jotun. They are from a planet near where Asgard used to be. We don’t know how they came to arrive here, seeing as they’re supposed to be extinct ; their whole planet was destroyed. The Norwegian sighted them a few months ago ; it was just after the people who were blipped reappeared so they were too busy to apprehend them immediately, plus they didn’t outright attack them then.”
“They stayed quietly hidden for a few months and suddenly decided to attack out of the blue ?”
“Apparently,” Sam replied with a shrug. “I fly tomorrow with Torres to apprehend them. Ross wants information on how they are here. We don’t want a third alien invasion.”
“Yeah, no,” he hummed. He hesitated a bit, leaning back on his chair before asking in what he hoped was a casual tone : “You’re gonna take the shield ?”
Sam tensed immediately and Bucky held back a sigh. It had been nearly four months since Steve left Sam with the shield and he had yet to use it. He had only brough the subject once in the past and Sam had reacted much the same. It was frustrating for him seeing Sam hesitate to take possession of what was rightly his. Steve had deemed him worthy and that should be enough.
“I don’t think so,” the man replied after a long moment of silence.
Bucky bit his lips to keep him from saying something he’ll regret. For now he would let it go. Sam needed more time, ok.
Ok.
“Actually, I wanted to ask if you were interested in coming with me ? I already have the approval from the higher up,” Sam explained.
He was oddly touched that the man wanted to have him on mission fighting dangerous giants that wanted to kill them. A little bit of action wouldn’t hurt him.
“Why Sam, you miss me that much ?” he snarked. The man snorted, amused.
“Yes, why not, you need someone to protect you from the cold.”
“Hey, not everybody is a super assassin who lived half his life in the cold ass Siberia,” he protested playfully. “Cool man, I’ll let the team know.”
A sudden though hit Bucky. “Hold on, how long will it take ? I’ve got to be back here in three days.”
Sam raised a curious eyebrow. “It shouldn’t be long. From what I’ve gathered, they are about twenty. They’re dangerous but a little army and a few bazooka would do. The USA are involved because we’re the country who had the most contact with Thor and his universe. Plus, Rhodey suspects Ross might have made a deal with them to retrieve the giants. The “I lend you my soldier and get you rid of these giant and you let me study and interrogate them” kind of deal,” he sneered.
“Mmh. Wouldn’t put it past the man,” he agreed. Neither of them appreciated the man. He had been a major voice against Bucky’s pardon but Sam especially disliked him because of the time he spent on the Raft ; while this period was too foggy for him to put any blame anywhere.
“Why are you needed here in three days ? You’ve got an appointment with Raynor ?” He had complained about his psychiatrist to Sam. It wasn’t an appointment with Raynor, though, as he told Sam. He would have preferred, and it was something, coming from him. “I’ve got to see my doctor,” he grumbled when Sam made it clear he wanted detail. The man grimaced in sympathy.
“Yeah sorry man, I know you don’t like doctors. They’re probably just gonna check on you and let you go when they’ll see you’re all good.” He tried to reassure him. If only, he though bitterly while rubbing his neck.
They paid their meal and went outside, the sun still shining softly.
“It was good seeing you, Buck,” Sam affirmed with a grin and he had the sudden urge to ask if he really meant it. “I’ll text you the address and the time for the meet up.”
“I’ll be there,” he nodded. “See you tomorrow.”
“See you,” the other man replied with a casual pat on his shoulder.
Sam turned, leaving him with a tight throat. How could Sam make touch seem so easy was incomprehensible for Bucky. Nobody touched him ; the only person who had, since HYDRA, was Steve and it had been hell just as much as it had felt nice. He didn’t want other person to touch him ; just the though of it made him shiver. But it was so nice when it was Sam. It wasn’t frightening, it didn’t hold any meaning or awkwardness. He didn’t know if it was because Sam was a beta. Back in the 40’s, he had been a very tactile guy ; it was just a way for him to show affection. Be it alpha, beta or omega, it never had mattered, and it shouldn’t. But every single one of his handlers had been alphas and despite objectively knowing most alphas were good people, he doubted he could ever let one be close to him again the way he had before HYDRA.
He made his way back home, lost in his thought. He liked seeing Sam but in the evening, it made him realize how lonely he was. Now, for his three good things of the days…
I saw Sam. He said it was good seeing me and I don’t think he was lying. Fluffly pancakes aren’t so bad.
Chapter 2
Notes:
I'm so happy from the returns I've already have, you can't imagine !
We get a new chapter from Sam's POV ! My baby, I love him too. Their POV will alternate every chapter, just so you know.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Sam was nervous, and not for the sound and safe reasons he probably should be. Like, “I’m going face to face against literal giants in a few hours, maybe I should worry about my health” or “I told Sarah I’ll text her before we depart and I didn’t”. Nope, he was anxious about Bucky freacking Barnes. Or, more precisely, how he would fit with his team and if the others would like him. Shit, he felt like he was presenting his girlfriend to his parents and he realized it was ridiculous. Torres had noticed, if the curious glance his way was any indication. He sighed, saluting Jack, one of his teammate who just joined them in front of the quinjet they were waiting.
“Yo, Wilson, what’s with the frantic energy ?” he questioned, surprised.
“Nothing, man,” he sighed.
The man shrugged, exchanged a quick look with Torres who shrugged in turn. They knew Bucky would be joining them and he also knew they were cool with it. He wouldn’t have proposed to Bucky if it wasn’t the case. Actually, he knew Torres was pretty excited to meet him, seeing as he was a pretty hardcore fan of the whole Howling Commando in his youth. Well, scratch that, he still was. Sam had warned him that the man wouldn’t be like all the stories he heard but Torres had been comprehensive, explaining that he didn’t except him to be. The kid was more mature than he looked. Still, he hoped they could actually appreciate Bucky. He knew the man wasn’t always easy to be around ; torture and brainwash would do that. But beneath the hard and sometime cold exterior, there was a good person with so much qualities it hurt to see him so alone after Steve left. Plus, he hoped that if it went well, Bucky could go on others missions with them, for multiple reasons. For one, he was strong, simple as that. Second, he got the feeling Bucky liked to help and the adrenaline ; including him was a perfect way to offer him both. And then, selfishly, Sam wanted to spend more time with him.
Sam was a people person ; he liked to talk with people and he had a lot of friends. But there was friend and there was friend. Friends who got it, who lived through the same shit he did, with who he could be Sam Wilson the annoying cocky son of a bitch who hated to lose and not Sam Wilson the Falcon, friend of Captain America and member of the Avengers. Truth was, sometime he felt lonely. After Riley’s death, he had had a hard time connecting to people on a deeper level. Then Steve Rogers and Natasha fucking Romanov had landed in his life and the rest was history. But Natasha was dead, Steve left, nobody knew where Wanda was. He was still in contact with Barton but the man was basically retired and with his family ; same with Lang. He of course had Sarah and both his nephews who he absolutely adored but they had their own lives together and he kept them far away from the superhero bullshit, as they should be. That’s where Bucky and his gruff exterior came in.
Shit, it was fucking endearing to him but he would die before admitting it aloud. He wasn’t sure where all this affection came from as he had actually quite disliked the man at the beginning. Sarah had suggested it might be because he was an omega and Sam had been quite offended by that. He never had based his appreciation of someone based on his gender, especially as a beta, be it by instinct or conscious though. Plus, Bucky didn’t release typical omega energy, so.
He was pulled out of his thought by Torres's happy chattering.
“Oh, Sergeant Barnes ! Hello ! Or- is it Mr Barnes ?”
He had the pleasure to catch the grimace the man pulled at this.
“Yeah, no, absolutely not Mr Barnes, that’s my father. Call me anything you like, kid,” he said in return.
“Ok Sergeant. I’m Torres ! » he announced with a big smile. Bucky gave him a non-impressed glance but nodded in return.
“Hi Buck,” he greeted.
Then Jack came out from the back of the quinjet, approaching with a grin and Sam felt suddenly panic burst in his chest when he realized Jack was an alpha. A nice but flirty one who always had a healthy appreciation for omegas and a posture and scent that screamed “alpha”.
“Nice to finally meet you, Sergeant,” he greeted politely, holding out his hand. ”My name’s Jack”
Then, Bucky just stared at the outstretched hand blankly and after what felt like a long time, he briefly shook it in return, and that was that. Sam felt himself relax, surprised by his own reaction. Bucky never did anything that indicated he had a problem with alphas. Well, he remembered the tense way he held himself with Steve in the beginning but he had been fine with T’Challa ; so Sam didn’t know why he had though it could go wrong. Anyway, he was glad Jack had toned down the natural and good-natured flirt that he usually was. He didn’t give enough credit to his men, he though vaguely, remembering the man was also the one who had brought omegas being sold to slavery to safety and proceeded to comfort them.
They went inside the jet, ready to take off and he had to bite off a smile not to look like a crazy lunatic while he observed Bucky interact with his environment and Torres. He glared around with a scowl and Sam knew him enough now to know he was assessing in his super assassin way and a tiny bit nervous to be around people. He met Jack’s eyes who was looking at him with a funny expression on his face; he scowled back.
He cleared his throat, bringing attention back to him.
“Ok gentlemen, let’s focus on our mission. The Norwegians are trying to maintain the giants on a restricted perimeters on the south of the city ; the army joined the police a few hours ago. They are around twenty but aggressive and ready to kill ; they had to bring a few tanks to contain them so the situation might be harder than we initially thought. That’s the last intel we got from them”, he explained before turning to Bucky. “They can create ice, turning it into weapon or burn your skin for what we know, so don’t let them grab you,” he warned him.
“I won’t,” he affirmed blankly.
ooOOoo
The scene was more of a pandemonium that he had though. There was ice on a wide perimeter, frozen buildings and everything, but they had successfully maintained the fight area restricted. They were welcomed by a tired lieutenant who gave them a quick update. It was tricky because they couldn’t bomb them from the sky, they were too close to population. Neither could they shoot them as they had formed a protective shell of ice above them. The tanks had taken out a few of them but they had rapidly adapted and froze all of them.
“Did they try to communicate ?” Sam asked.
The soldier shrugged.
“Not really. Their leader called out for Odin many times but aside from this, they didn’t gave us anything.”
“Odin ? As in the North god ? He was Thor’s father if I’m not wrong but he’s dead since a few years already now.”
“They might not know that ?” proposed Torres.
“How could they not ?” he replied, full of disbelief. “Ok, let’s do this. I take Redwing and make them-“
He was cut off by sudden shots and screams.
“THEY BROKE THE PERIMET-“
The young lad was pierced right through the chest by a huge spear.
“Shit !” he exclaimed. “No time to chit chat, Jack and Torres you go around them to fight them on their flank. Buck, straight away with me, we need to contain them before they break loose !”
They ran straight into the fight to collide with them. They were huge, as excepted of giants but they were also fast and strong. The allied shots were stopped by their ice armor, their long arms allowing them an advantage when it came to close combat. He took of the ground to go on their head level, Redwing analyzing their figures and armor to find a weak spot. He saw Bucky leaping through the air, metal arm and gun ready but he concentrated on his situation. Redwings spotted weak point on the articulations and that’s for where he went. He flew straight to the closest to him, shooting his right knee before making an urgent loop to avoid being swat like a fly. He twirled around, bringing his wings close to his body as he rolled around himself. He sliced through the back of his knee once again, making him fall with a roar of pain. He didn’t lose any time and dropped a hand grenade, knocking him out if not killing him. He continued on his merry way, shooting through the sky before coming in close. They were resistant but he knew their victory was close. They were just too little to have any chance.
“Careful Sam !” he heard Bucky shout just in time, barely evading a giant who had snuck behind him more discreetly than he should be able to. He faced him, shooting him to keep him at a distance but his enemy suddenly sent him a wave of ice he was too close to avoid completely. He protected himself with his left wings, freezing it almost instantly.
“Fuck-“
He fell hard on the ground, unbalanced from the sudden extra weight on his wing. The giant came right to him, roaring as he tried to cut his neck clean with his pierce. He dodged crouching down and was saved by a Norwegian strafing the giant, shouting what seemed like an insult. It bought him enough time to dislodge the wings as Bucky made his way through to join him. He took the opportunity to make a quick scan around him. There were only two giants left fighting, he realized with relief.
“Hey ! Stop fighting, it’s over !” he tried to reason the one in front of him. He ignored him, his snarls and blow becoming more and more vicious. He kept shouting out ice in a frantic frenzy, his eyes full of rage. Jack joined the combat beside Sam, standing at distance but firing at him without faltering.
It was Bucky who finally seemed to have enough. He ran to the giant, avoiding with ease the ice launched his way. When the giant tried to grab him, he let himself slide to the floor, the open hand coming right above him. Before Sam could even cry out to him, he grabbed two of the large fingers in his grip at the same time he hooked his legs around the wrist. Then with a violent tug, his turned his hand in a direction while his body turned another. There was a sickening “pop” and the giant screamed in pain, his wrist broken clean. Sam couldn’t help but grimace at the sound before he raised his riffle back, intend on protecting Bucky. It was not needed. The man took advantage of the pain from his enemy to climb upon his arm. He sat around his neck, pulling out his gun to put him right on his temple.
“He told you to stop fighting,” he snarled. “Last fucking chance !”
The giant didn’t listen. He threw his healthy hand around his back, intent on crushing Bucky. This one caught the fist in his own palm, his super strength allowing him to hold his own. Sam had a burst of anguish as he saw the man grimace and realized it wasn’t the metal arm that had caught his fist.
“Let it go Bucky he’s going to freeze your hand !”
The man didn’t waste any time. He shot him three time right through the head and the giant crumpled. He ran to Bucky as he gritted his teeth with pain as he broke down his jump from the giant with his injured hand.
“Shit, man are you okay ? How’s your hand ?” he urged him, taking Bucky’s hand in his own to see the damage.
“Yeah yeah it’s okay,” he grumbled as he pulled back his hand to himself.
“You’re sure ? Show me, we need to-“
“God Wilson it’s okay, he touched me like half a second and I have the serum, remember genius ?” Bucky retorted with a roll of his eyes.
“Still, it must hurt…” he admitted defeat, knowing there was truth in what the other man was saying.
The next minutes were devoted to apprehending the Jotuns still alive, guarding them at gunpoint with what seemed to be heavy handcuff on their wrist. Sam didn’t know what material it was or if it would be strong enough to hold them but as none of them broke out, it must be strong enough. All of their energy and rage had disappeared, leaving them boneless with empty eyes that made him almost feel pity. There were a few casualty on their side but luckily not too much. Most would recover without any problem. He took the time to thanks the soldier who had helped him who thanked him back in an approximative English. The lieutenant made his way to him and as Rhodey had suspected, Ross was behind their involvement. He insulted the secretary of state under his breath.
“As agreed upon with your country, we hand them over to you. You were of great help, Mr. Wilson, you and your men.”
He nodded back, hiding his irritation at the situation. Helping out wasn’t a problem but he didn’t like to do it in Ross conditions. They could finally leave after helping out the injured one and a few politicals greeting and “thanks you”. The eleven remaining giants were brought inside their quinjet and they took of for what would be a few hours. He was beat, he realized as he let himself fall next to Bucky.
“So, how was your return on the field ?” he asked good naturally.
“Is it what it was ? I’m a bit out of practice but it went ok I guess.”
Jack snorted across from them.
“That’s what you call out of practice ? That was brilliant ! Glad to see Sam hadn’t lied about your super assassin skill,” he snarked.
Sam had the sudden urge to gloat. Yeah, Bucky was a fucking beast wasn’t he ? Fuck if he didn’t found it brilliant too, the way he could dance around an enemy twice his size with no difficulty. He grinned at the man, wanting to take him in his arms and tell him he was fucking proud of what he did today. Of how far he came since the Winter Soldier. Bucky looked him with a curiosity and something else he couldn’t quite decipher in his eyes.
“You talked about me, Wilson ?” he questioned with humor but he could sense a bit of expectation.
Embarrassed, he diverted his gaze to glare at Jack while Torres laughed quietly.
“I didn’t !” he protested, which was the truth. Like, of course he had to talk about Bucky if he was going to join them on a mission, and of course when they asked who he was joining in New York he was going to mention him. But he honestly hadn’t brought him that much into conversation.
They settled back, tiredness taking over their body. None of them slept as they had to keep an eye on the Jotun and the quinjet wasn’t that comfortable. He observed Bucky who was staring blankly in front of him. It was hard to tell with him but if he wasn’t exactly relaxed, he wasn’t on guard either. He risked a quick glance to his injured hand but it was covered with a sheet. He wanted to make sure he really was okay but he didn’t want to pry and make the man uncomfortable.
He liked Bucky. He really did, and it had first surprised himself. When Steve had talked about the man he was, the friend he lost, Sam had only seen a cold and dislikable soldier. He had made an effort in the name of his own friendship with Steve but it had been hard. When there wasn’t the frightening memory of being throw of a heliporter, there was the unfriendly scowl on the man’s face making him want to snap at him. But they had learn to know each other despite them with their time on the run and their mutual friendship with Steve. From harsh jabs they had come to annoying each other to friendly bickering. Today, he counted Bucky as his friend. Not a close one, not like he sometime admitted himself he’d like to. They didn’t see each other enough for that and it was so frustrating to Sam, because he could see the potential there, to have and to be friend with him. He wanted the man to reconcile with the world that had hurt him so much, to show him it was okay to trust again, because he deserved it. He wasn’t sure what Bucky thought about him, if he even considered them friend. He had the feeling he did though, considering he accepted to see him regularly and he replied his texts but he could be wrong.
The quiet hiss of a Jotun attracted his attention. They were talking with each other, visibly arguing. They exchanged a look, a silent question in Jack eyes.
“We probably should try to make them talk,” he sighed tiredly. “See if there wasn’t any more of them”.
“I’m on it boss,” Jack replied. He tried to argue but the man just waved him away.
It was disconcerting to Sam, this situation. How they had appeared out of nowhere in Oslo, how they had kept a low profile to then finally decide to fight them. Shit, just how were they alive ? He didn’t know their race but Valkyrie and Thor through Clint had given the same information: their people had been decimated. He vaguely watched Jack trying to speak to them, in vain. The giants just looked back at him with blank gazes.
“I can’t get anything out of them, he confessed, frustrated. Do they even know our language ?”
“Well, the Norwegian said they talked about Odin so probably…” Torres pointed out.
Bucky groaned before getting up.
“We’re just idiots,” he grunted. “Let me do it.”
Sam was half worried he was going to pull out a knife and outright torture them and Jack seemed to think the same if the surprised and worried look he casted his direction was any indication. But Bucky didn’t pull out any weapon, he just crouched down to their level.
“Hvorfor angrep dere byen?” He asked firmly.
Sam blinked, having no idea what he just said. But then he could smack himself for his stupidity, vaguely recognizing the Norwegian language. Of course they didn’t have any reason to speak English. The giants glared back at him and if it wasn’t what they wanted, it was still better than incomprehension.
“Dere er fanger, og dere har ingen mulighet til å befri dere selv. Vi vil ikke skade dere, men vi gjør det om vi må. Hvorfor angrep dere byen?”
The giants glanced at each other before one straightened up and finally responded to Bucky. From there it was a back and forth with what sounded like a lot of insults coming from them. When they finally took a break, Sam took advantage to ask what was being said.
“They claim they were in a battle against Odin who locked them away. Apparently, they were freed in Oslo what must be a few months ago from what the Norwegian told us.”
“By Odin ? What the actual fuck, the poor old bastard is dead ? How long they say they were locked away ? And where ?”
Bucky turned back to them, translating his questions.
“They don’t know. Many years they think but they are not sure. And… they said they were trapped inside the Tesseract.”
A heavy silence fell upon them. He would gladly pass his life without hearing about the infinity stones again. The stones had been destroyed nobody could have used one of them since Thanos. He shared his thought but nobody knew what to think.
“You think Thanos is the one who freed them ? When you battled against him ? The timing would correspond,” Jack proposed.
“I don’t know… Thanos didn’t seem the type to do that,” he explained with a frown. “But you’re right, the timing corresponds.” He turned back to Bucky. “Do they know who set them free ? And why they suddenly attacked the city ?”
“They don’t know. They think it was Odin, that’s why they were calling out to him. When they came back, the other giants were gone so they retreated and remained hidden. My guess is that they wanted to regain contact with the others, given their obvious numerous disadvantage. Anyway, I had to read between the lines but they came out of hiding because they were desperate. They’re dying, simple as that. Earth isn’t their environment, it’s way too hot for them.”
That was surprisingly sad, Sam though but it made sense. The giants were strong but they must have seen that they weren’t going to win against them.
“Valkyrie might have more information on this matter. I’ll ask for a meeting with her, see if we can understand what’s going on.”
ooOOoo
When they arrived back, it was night. To his pleasant surprise, Rhodey was waiting for them, along with a few government representative waiting for their rapport. They obviously already knew it went well as the Jotuns were brough alongside them and the Norwegian must have gave them news. They didn’t usually get welcomed by high ranking people but it had been an important mission both politically and information wise. His joy rapidly evaporated when he saw it was in fact Thaddeus Ross standing near Rhodey. The state secretary wasn’t typically waiting to greet the soldiers he sent on mission either, he though dryly. He managed a tight smile to his greeting and was going to welcome Rhodey with a much more real smile when a saw Ross making a beeline towards Bucky. Oh hell no !
He casted an apologetic glance Rhodey’s way before trotting to catch up with Bucky and Ross.
“… good job ! Rogers would be proud.” Ross was saying.
The look on Bucky’s face would have been funny in any other contest. He stared down the man after his disbelief faded, a harsh and silent glare his only response. Ross seemed uneasy but caught himself quickly.
“Anyway, I was-“
“Hello there, Mister Ross. We didn’t except you to greet us in person. I can’t help myself but wondering why is that ?” he interrupted with a wide and fake smile. The man didn’t try to hide his annoyance.
“Wilson, I wanted to have a chat with Mr. Barnes here-“
“It’s Sergeant,” the mentioned man cut Ross.
“I- Yes, I know. Sergeant Barnes,” he recovered coldly.
“I wasn’t sure, seeing as one of your argument to keep me locked inside a jail my whole life was that I had lost my rank the day I first killed in HYDRA’s stead.”
Ouch. Ross’s expression faltered, a twitch in his eye betraying his annoyance.
“I was worried back then we would be pardoning a criminal. Surely you understand that ? Anyway as I was saying before I was interrupted, I’d like to offer you a job. We are forming a special unit to execute missions across the globe. Obviously, we thought of you.”
“Because I’m such a good murderer ?” asked Bucky without hiding his venom as he said back Ross’s words from his trial. “Yeah, no thanks, I’m good.”
“You should think about it. Of course you’ll have an excellent salar-“
“Without offence, Ross,” Sam lied, “but we’re all tired from our day and we’d very much like to go back home.”
They stared down each other in silence, neither hiding their disdain for the other. The man finally admitted defeat as he turned back to Bucky.
“Well, I’ll let you think about it. Don’t hesitate to reach out when you’ll change your mind.”
With that he finally left, letting Sam stunned in disbelief.
“The gall of this guy !” he exclaimed.
“He’s an asshole,” Bucky agreed and that was gently put. Sam despised him and the fact he was trying to recruit Bucky after all the terrible things he had said against his pardon didn’t help. Sam wasn’t naive and he doubted Bucky either. Ross wanted to keep an eye on Bucky and have a super soldier at his beck and call. Banner had warned him against him and his ambition to recreate super soldier. Ross might not seem like it but he was dangerous and in a position of power. They were approached by Rhodey who shared an understanding look. He knew how much Sam disliked the state secretary.
“I wanted to warn you about this but he took me by surprise too,” he explained. “Guess we were right about Ross being interested in the ice giants ?”.
Bucky snorted. “Ice giants and Winter Soldier, this guy really have a problem with snow.”
“Yeah… I’m actually worried about the Jotuns, Rhodey. I’ll put it in my written report but their story raise a few worrying questions.”
“You succeed to make them talk ? he asked, surprised. “The Norwegian didn’t tell us anything.”
Sam proceeded to explain what they had learn. Rhodey was equally perplex.
“I’ll contact Valkyrie and I’ll keep you informed.”
“You should also keep an eye around Ross,” Sam advised. “I don’t trust him with the Jotuns.”
The giants might have acted like terrorists, but it was out of desperation and nobody deserved to be experimented on, he though, glancing at Bucky who was following the exchange quietly. They made their way outside the military area, saying goodbye to Torres and Jack. He walked side by side with Bucky, a comfortable silence between them, only broke by Sam’s yawn.
“Damn, I’m beat,” he shared, mentally berating himself for not having book a hotel room. He mindlessly followed Bucky to his motorbike.
“Have a good rest Buck, and thanks for helping out.”
“It was nice helping out for once,” he confessed. “You’ve got a car or something ?”
“Nop. I’m going to sleep in New York, I stay there for a few days.”
“Ah… uh, ok. I- have a nice evening,” he replied awkwardly.
“Thanks. Take care and don’t be a stranger !” he pat down his back before turning around. He knew a hotel not too far and with a bit of luck, it would have a free room. He took a few resolute steps, cursing himself not to have asked Rhodey to give him a ride.
“Wait, Sam ! You- Do you want to sleep at my place ? I’ve got a couch. It’s a new one. A nice one.” Bucky was close to stammering, his teeth greeted together.
“Aw man, I though you’d never ask !” he joked, hiding his very real surprise. Hosting a colleague after a long day wasn’t that surprising, Sam would have done the same. But Bucky was a very private person so he hadn’t expected his proposition.
“Hop back on the seat,” the man instructed as he sat on the front seat of his bike, giving him a helmet. Sam raised an eyebrow, realizing it was the only helmet but he was too tired to fight Bucky about it.
Bucky was a smooth driver. He drove fast but fluidly, gently zigzagging between the few rare cars circulating in the middle of the night without ever getting too close to them. Sam typically didn’t like not being in control when in a vehicle but he could get used to that, he mused as he looked up at the lights in the sky coming from the city. It was beautiful, the purring of the bike lulling him in a soft trance. He had the urge to put his head against Bucky’s back and let him drive him wherever he wanted. He didn’t. Instead, he straightened up on his seat, tightening his hold on Bucky’s vest, and then watched the city scrolls by. They eventually pulled over, their stroll around the city having seemed both so long and too short. Sam reluctantly got off the bike, removing the helmet.
They didn’t share a word as Sam followed Bucky inside his appartement. It wasn’t a big place, equipped with the strict minimum. But he did have a nice leather couch and to Sam surprise, a plant next to it. It was basically the only thing in the main room, no TV or anything else beside the old fashioned kitchen. He had a glimpse of Bucky’s mattress, and it made his chest clench knowing the man still couldn’t sleep on a real bed. Sam took a shower first at Bucky’s insistence.
He crashed down on the sofa, sighing with pleasure as he rolled himself around a plaid Bucky had given him. He fought against sleep, wanting to thanks the other man before. He raised his head when he stepped out the bathroom, grey shirt and jogging softening his figure and making him look younger. He opened his mouth but Bucky beat him to that.
“Thank you for today,” he offered him quietly.
Sam wanted to protest that he was the one who was being hosted, but he got it. He understood what he was saying so he just nodded. He stopped fighting and let himself drift asleep, his nose pressed in the pillow that had a soft smell of spice and wildflowers that could only belong to Bucky.
Notes:
Hope you liked it ! I've got a few chapters written already but I'll try not to post everyday so that I let myself have some time to write the rest... though knowing myself it will be hard to resist.
Chapter Text
What woke up Bucky was the delicious smell of fried eggs and not a nightmare, which wasn’t always a given. He smiled against his pillow with a sudden urge to purr. That’s when he stood wide awake, realizing that himself hadn’t prepared any eggs. He grabbed the gun under his mattress and released it promptly when he remembered last night.
That’s right, he had invited Sam over. He let out a long sigh, feeling himself relax and take time to appreciate the fact that he had actually slept like the dead. He joined Sam who was whistling and cooking what smelled like a nice breakfast.
“That looks good,” he offered.
The man startled, turning around with wide eyes.
“Jesus Christ Bucky !” he exclaimed. “Do I need to put a bell on you ?”
“I wasn’t trying to startle you, sorry.”
“Yeah, yeah, I know, super ninja skill. Anyway I hope you don’t mind, I prepared breakfast with what you had. Which was eggs and peanut butter by the way, what the hell man ? This empty fridge is so sad,” Sam complained but he had done something decent. Bucky decided to ignore him and put down two plates. He felt warmth inside his chest at the idea that Sam had made the effort to make something for us both. It was pretty good and he said as much to the other man, who shrugged with a grin.
“I’ve got a reunion at 11 am so I wont bother you much longer.”
He looked the time indicated on his phone and yep, it was almost 10 am. He was disappointed Sam needed to leave so soon. He hadn’t been sure he would be comfortable with the other man into his space, having proposed him to sleep here out of sympathy and a want to enjoy his presence a bit longer. But he fitted perfectly in his apartment, he mused happily.
They were both in a good mood as they shared anecdotes about food and breakfast with their respective family. Sam seemed to have a great relationship with his family, he mused. He talked about them a lot and sometime, it felt like Bucky knew them even though he had never met them.
Sam insisted to help clean the room and the time for him to leave came way too rapidly. He took his belongings and as he turned to say his goodbye, Bucky felt a crushing disappointment such that he had to hold back a plaintive whine. Sam went for a pat, but Bucky went for a side hug, resting his cheek on his collarbone as he took in his smell. Sam had a nice smell ; one that still held a bit of Bucky’s soap in it. It should always be like that, he decided contently, nosing at the material a bit so Sam could smell a little bit like him too, before stepping away.
Then he took in the expression of surprise in the other man face and he realized what he just did. A ball of humiliation grew heavy inside his throat and he glared at him.
“You should go before you arrive late,” he declared coldly, virtually pushing the man out of his apartment.
“Buck-“ he slammed the door behind Sam.
He felt his face grow hot with shame and he clenched his teeth together. His heat was near and he wasn’t even able to tell before he ridiculed himself, acting like a clingy fucking idiot. Sam must have been freaked out, he acknowledged with anger and sadness, especially in contrast to the distance he usually kept.
Those embarrassing moments usually didn’t happen. Back in the 40’s, Steve and his family would recognize the symptom quicker than him, and, given he was way more affectionate back then, his behavior didn’t change that much. People and Bucky himself just accepted his sudden need to be close to the people he cared about. Then after he was free from HYDRA, he always had been alone so the problem never presented itself. A sudden worry hit him : would Sam be mad Bucky had basically marked him ? He worried his lip, anxious. Sam was a chill guy, he reasoned ; plus he didn’t date anybody that could take offense, not that he knew of anyway. He wanted to call Sam to apologize but in the end he was too embarrassed. So instead, he spent hours working out trying to evacuate his frustration. It only worked a little, the reminder that he was meeting with his doctor tomorrow morning not helping. He could have gone to the boxing gym he had spotted near his apartment, but he didn’t want to meet anybody.
When came the moment to decide on three good thing, he had to focus hard to forget the incident.
The breakfast was tasty.
I woke up without feeling tired.
And, despite himself : Sam smelled good.
ooOOoo
When he arrived in front of the doctor’s office, his bad mood worsened as he saw there was two other people in the waiting room. A couple, he noted as the man rubbed affectionately his partner arm, muttering what seemed to be reassuring words as she was fidgeting nervously. You and me both, he though dryly. He had been woken up by a nightmare which he vaguely remembered. Something about someone giving him back to HYRDA because he was unstable and uncontrollable, HYDRA organizing a whole party for his return. His brain was fucked up, even more because he knew even if he didn’t remember that part that the someone in question had been Sam. As if Sam could one day do something so cruel.
He was restless and frustrated, a yearning hole in his chest making itself known more and more as time passed. Part of him wanted to fill that hole with someone, to feel closure, to take someone he cared about in his arm and hold them close. But he didn’t have anybody like that and those soft and fragile thought went in total contradiction with the annoyance and his general bad mood. And why was his neck fucking itching, he though furiously, scratching with a sudden move at the fading mark on the back of his neck.
Yet another cause of discomfort was the scar bare for the whole world to see. Objectively he knew it was discreet but he usually covered it with a patch adapted to his skin so the demand of his doctor to see him without it left him uneasy. He felt the gaze of the couple on him, curious and worried. The only thing that held him back from snapping at them was the reminder that the woman was nervous, too.
Shit, he needed to calm down, he realized as he noticed the armrest he had grabbed was bent. He released it as if burned, shame making his throat feel tight as he ducked his head down. He tried to relax for the next minutes until his name was called.
“Mr Barnes ? Hello, follow me please,” greeted Doctor Novaro.
Doctor Novaro was a competent woman. She was around fifty, her petite figure giving of an air of authority and professionalism. He wanted to dislike her but couldn’t really find any fault with her so he just hated being here. She let him sit rigidly inside the comfortable chair before giving him her full attention.
Ok, you can do that.
“How have you been since last time we saw each other ?”
“Good,” he replied, because what was there to say ? He had saw her once, just after the fight against Thanos and his army. It had been a condition to his parole otherwise he wouldn’t have bothered. She mostly had realized a general physical check up, got to know him and approached the subject of his pheromone regulation as an omega.
“Are you close to your heat ? I can smell a change in your scent.”
“Yes,” he nodded stiffly. The topic of heat and rut was a lot less taboo than in the 40’s, he had noticed.
“Is it the first one since the Blip ?”
“No… I had one 3 months ago. A few days or weeks after I was back from the Blip.
She nodded, visibly satisfied. “You mentioned last time your heat had took a while to become regular again after your escape. Is 3 months the usual interval between ?” He nodded. Hydra had used heat inducer multiple time during his long captivity but his last… handler had took it to another level.
He shuddered. Yeah, that wasn’t something he wanted to think about. Anyway, it probably was what had fucked up his cycle.
“That’s a good thing ! It means your cycle are back to normal.”
He grumbled a dubious agreement.
“Now I think we need to talk about this heat and the following ones.” He must have made a face because she added :”I know it’s not something you are comfortable with but it’s important, Mr. Barnes. You need to understand that the heats are very much linked with our physical and mental state. You can go from barely a reaction to a uncontrollable and unstable one, depending on the person but a person can also experience those two extreme in his life. It’s survival instinct, be it to appeal to the person threatening you or to enable the body to focus and direct its energy into survival. In your case-“
“Without any offence, I know how to control myself, doc,” he cut her into her speech. “ I lived into war and I never went bonkers during those heats.” And it was the truth. It wasn’t necessarily the case for every omega but Bucky had always have very mild heat which never lasted longer than three or four days. During these moments, he would just be more affectionate - needy, Steve would say but Bucky himself was too proud to employ this word - and, if he felt hornier, it never prevented him for living his daily life. Even during the war, his behavior had been pretty much the same. He was a caregiver back then – a mother hen, once again Steve would say – and it had only amplified this trait. His guys had appreciated it, being so far from home and comfort, and Bucky had liked it even more in response. Realistically, he knew he had been lucky. Omegas were treated with respect, back in the 40’s too, but very few joined the combats. Where omegas had been rare in the cities, they were basically inexistent on the frontline ; Bucky had only met one beside himself. So, yeah, one omega in heat in the middle of betas and alphas deprived of sex and comfort for months should have been a disaster. But Bucky had been surrounded by good and trusty people who had cared about him, and he had been generally speaking well liked. Plus, Captain America had been his best buddy, so there was that.
“I know and I hope it will stay this way. It probably will,” she placated him, pulling him out of his memories. “There are very few omegas losing control of themselves because of heat, or alphas during rut for what matter, despite what films and TV shows tends to portray. Just as you were able to wage war, a good portion of people are able to go to work when in heat or rut. Loss of control only happens in peculiar situation, moments of great duress or in case of medical condition. But it can happen. I had a young patient who lost her mother and she didn’t have any heats for months even though she was trying to have a baby with her companion. I had another one who consulted me because his heats were lasting almost twice what they should and during this time, he was unable to think straight or feel any want but a sexual one. He happened to be in a very abusive relationship at the time and even if it took almost a year, it resolved itself once he left his companion.”
She paused and stood back in her chair.
“What I am trying to make you understand, Mr Barnes is that as I said, it can happen. You went through a lot and even if you are in better conditions and in a safe environment, it still will be the first heat you’ll have in normal condition. Because we can both agree that the ones which happened when you were on the run and the one a mere few weeks after your return from the Blip and the fight that decided the fate of the universe weren’t normal conditions.”
He blinked at this comment, realizing how true it was even though he never had thought about it. There was a sudden vertiginous feeling when he realized just how long it had been since he had had a, well, normal heat. First there had been HYDRA which wasn’t even worth mentioning. Then he had been on the run and Bucky could admit after reflection that, even if this period was still fuzzy, he had had very few heats with very little symptoms. He had been too much on guard and on a survival mode back then. After that there was cryo, then the Blip, then the battle, then, unbeknownst to her, the death of Steve… and it led to today. And if he counted the war back in the 40’s…
He let out a nervous chuckle, which he realized was close to a sob. He cleared his throat, not willing to meet doctor Novaro’s eyes. How embarrassing, to realize how scared he was of his own heat. He blamed HYDRA for this because it was never the case before.
She let him time to compose himself before she continued. “There is this possibility of your heat being different from how they could be before. Possibly not but it’s something you need to be aware of as not to be caught of guard if it should happen. Have you planned to spend them with someone ?”
“No,” he snorted and she nodded in understanding.
“In this case, I’d like you to notify someone, let them know of your situation so you have someone you can count on if needed, or better yet if they can check up on you regularly.”
“Absolutely not,” he refused squarely.
“I’m not asking you to give them any details, Mr Barnes. It’s not even necessarily in presence, messages would suffice. Don’t you have any family or friends you could trust on this matter ?”
“You’re talking about the family who died years ago ?” he bristled. “Or the friends who died during the war ? Or the one who, as you may have read on the journal, died a few months ago ?”
She sighed, offering him a placating tired smile. “I’m sorry, it was naïve on my part. It also exist community service for this kind of situa-“
“Yeah, no,” he quickly groaned, feeling goosebumps at the mere idea of sharing this verbally or physically to a stranger. Truth was that there was only one name that came on his mind : Sam. He was the only contact he still had left in this world. Still, it wasn’t something he wanted Sam involved in, plus the other man was busy. She observed him in silence a few seconds before giving up.
“Very well. I cannot force you but I hope you’ll think about it. You can always change your mind and don’t hesitate to contact this association if it was the case,” she explained to him as she gave him a post it with a phone number he knew he would put in the trash the moment he went back home. He understood her concern but Bucky would be fine. He‘d just go through it alone.
“Now tell me, are you on any contraception ?” she questioned.
He sputtered, surprised. “Contra- ugh- no,” he grimaced.
“Well, it’s something you may like to consider ? I know you haven’t planned anything for the moment but you may need it later.”
He felt a heavy weight settle in his inside. “I won’t need it,” he declared bitterly.
“Are you sure ? There are a lot of option, these days,” she tried to convince him.
“Yeah I’m sure”, he groaned, annoyed.
She nodded. “As you wish. You can contact me if you one day change your mind. But you must know that fertility increase when in heat and if you happened to- ”.
“GOD, stop ! They fucking sterilized me, why the hell would I need a freacking contraception ?!” he exploded as he banged hard on the desk.
Her eyes widened, surprised. At his reaction or what he just confessed, he didn’t know, didn’t care. He went around his chair, turning his back to her as he paced back and forth, angry and ashamed of his outburst. They stood in silence for what seemed like several minutes, his explosives nerves calming slowly.
“I’m sorry, James,” she finally apologized quietly, “I didn’t know”, she confessed.
It was stupid to get angry about it. She couldn’t have known. Furthermore, Bucky didn’t want kids, so why should it matter to him ? Just another choice taken from me, he though bitterly.
“You couldn’t have,” he admitted quietly before sitting back. “Sorry ‘bout that,” he added embarrassingly.
“It’s okay. Do you wish to talk about it ?”
“No.”
“Okay,” she nodded. “One last thing. Could I see your bite ?”
“Why ?” He fidgeted, knowing it would come but he couldn’t help but ask.
“Typically, when a person get bonded, the brand last his entire life because of the repeated stimulation by the hormones of his partner. However, what we can see in pediatric case of someone being bitten is that, if they never see the responsible again, they heal completely and are able afterward to have a new bite,” she explained. “I would normally only check on its state to be sure it doesn’t have any bad reaction but given the serum, I’m hoping your body will be able to heal and enable the bond to disappear entirely.”
Would it be able to heal properly ? During his long captivity, a bond had been a way to control him and render him more compliant to his alpha handler. The bite always faded after some years, allowing another alpha to bite him when the bond became weak enough but they never left him without one enough time to see if it could actually heal completely. Plus, his last bite was a bit special and stronger than the other one in the past, enough so that it had posed problem for HYDRA. So he found himself with cautious hope, powered by the fact that it had faded a lot with the years, more than it ever had.
He bared his throat, trying to hide his discomfort. She approached him, quickly scanning and palpating it after she asked his permission.
“It’s perfectly healing,” she announced with a smile as she made her way back to her desk.
“It’s supposed to, with the serum, you just said so” he explained quietly.
“I know it on a theorical level but I must admit that it’s quite impressive to witness. I’m happy for you, “she admitted kindly. It felt a little uncomfortable but at the same time, he was touched to hear her say that, especially since he could feel she meant it. She didn’t know the detail of how he was marked or by who but she could easily guess it hadn’t been in happy and consensual circumstance.
Their conversation were drawing to a close but he lingered, a question on the tips of his lips.
“The mark has been itchy for a few months…” he finally confessed. “Is it normal ?”. It was a point he had ignored as much as he could, hoping it would fade but it left him uneasy.
“Itchy ?” she frowned, thoughtful. “Not really… it can be at the beginning, just as any wound can itch as it heals but not typically after a long time. When were you marked, if I may ask ?”
“I’m not sure… I would say it happened around 2011 ? No, more likely 2010 ? So something like 8 years ago, without counting the Blip.” His memories of this event where one of the best preserved, making it a recuring theme inside his nightmare but the timeline was still very blurred. The only thing he was sure of was that it happened before 2012.
“Well, I don’t have any certain explanation for this phenomena. It may be linked to your psychic state,” she offered.
“It’s only happened since I returned from the Blip. It may have something to do with it ?” he tried.
“I don’t know, Mr Barnes. You are a very unique kind and the Blip is simply too recent to have any kind of retrospective. You haven’t been in contact with the alpha who bit you, I suppose ?”
“No. He’s dead,” he replied flatly.
“I’m sorry and can’t give you more insights.”
He sighed, trying to hide his deception. It was something that bothered him even though he wasn’t so much worried as annoyed. He knew with certitude his last alpha was dead, firstly because Rumlow had told him and secondly because the mark always faded quicker after his alphas died. Still, it felt like a defeat, to have this constant reminder.
“Are you worried about a potential future bonding ?” she asked him.
He shook his head. “No, I know that I can still bond.”
She didn’t press for further information and he was grateful for that. She enquired if he had any other issues he’d like to talk about and after declining, they parted.
He took a deep breath out once he was outside the building, relief that it was over. He checked his phone, feeling guilt when he noticed another ignored message from Sam. And yet there was a warm feeling in his chest and the urge to preen at the attention the other man was offering him. He should be here, he petulantly decided before he banned this idea. He walked through the street, his nerve rising back at the same time the yearning pit inside his chest did, his though circling around Sam. How he had smelled yesterday, how gentle his touch were, how his mischievous smiled could turn soft when they talked.
He growled aloud at his stupidity, gathering a few looks that made his anger rise back. So what if he was angry ? I’d like to see them after 70 years spent with fucking HYDRA, he though viciously. His burning hatred for the nazis grew in him, an urge to reap those bastards and their fucking alphas into pieces for having rendered him so inadequate. He stopped before a moving car and he felt the curious gaze of a guy who he identified as an alpha on him. He wiped around and snarled at him, teeth barred.
“You got a problem ?” he growled at him, pulsing wave of aggression coming out of him. He hoped he’ll reply to the provocation, that he’d get to hit someone. But the dude just backed down and raised his arms in a non threatening way, stuttering an apology Bucky didn’t bother to listen as he continued his road. Coward.
He distantly reflected he should calm down but he wasn’t interested in listening to his voice of reason. No, he was interested in seeing Sam. Seeing his sisters, his parents.
Seeing Steve, came the sad realization. He always had known how to act around him in those time back in their youth, always an affectionate hug or straight up cuddles to offer him. The idea now of letting Steve, even if it was just his Steve that close made him feel nauseous ; yet he wanted the comfort. But, well, his best friend was dead, was the desperate truth.
“Shit,” he mumbled, rubbing his eyes. He was close to his apartment but his steps led him to the Loving Shelter. There, he didn’t even think about it and walked straight to Kitten. The dog tilted his head curiously and he went to his knee.
“Hey there buddy,” he greeted softly before taking the dog in his arms. He let himself be cuddled, panting gently in his hear and he felt love squeeze his heart at such patience coming from the old dog. He stayed like that for what felt like a long time as he calmed slowly, the animal never protesting.
ooOOoo
He was, the following day, rolled around his pillow on his oh so perfect sofa. He had tried to call Shuri for once, avid for a distraction, but she hadn’t replied, probably deep in her science stuff. His phone was now opened in his hand on Sam’s contact info as it had been for the last 10 minutes. He felt a little drunk and everything around him felt hazy, his skin too hot and yet too cold.
Why wasn’t he calling Sam again ? Doctor Novaro had advised him to do so. Well, to inform someone he trusted but Sam was that person, probably the only one. He wanted to call Sam, just to hear his voice and feel like he mattered to someone. Sam himself had said in his text that he should call him. He straightened himself, determined and touched the “call” button. It rang once, then twice, then thrice and he felt his angst rise. Then, “Bucky ? Hello ?”
He smiled, unable to control himself and was barely self-conscious enough to stop himself from purring. He cleared his throat.
“Mmh, hello.” He greeted awkwardly.
“You’re okay ? Man you can’t leave me hanging like that for days !”
“Mmh Mmh”, he nodded even though the other man couldn’t see him. There were a few seconds of heavy silence as he fidgeted on his couch.
“Do you need something ? “Sam finally asked, breaking the moment.
It hit him like a truck, his face burning with shame, just how stupid he was. Gosh, what was he supposed to say ? I’m in heat and I miss you, please come see me ? That felt close to the truth but Bucky wasn’t an asshole enough to make it Sam’s problem. There weren’t close, for christ sake ! Plus the other man was busy. Should he just inform him of his state of health ?
“Huh…” was the only thing he could make out.
For what purpose would he do that ? His doctor had been worried he could loose control but that wasn’t the case. He hadn’t gone out seeking sex from the first person he met like a lunatic, so he was good. Furthermore, he couldn’t let Sam see him this… weak and out of character. That would be uncomfortable for both of them, especially Sam. Not because he was an omega in heat, he knew Sam wasn’t bigoted, he respected everybody no matter their secondary gender. Everybody came in contact with an alpha in rut or an omega in heat, be it for a member of their family, a friend. The situation didn’t have to be awkward, it was natural.
No, the problem was that it was Bucky. He wasn’t your typical omega ; even before HYDRA, people were surprised when learning he was one. His physique screamed more beta or even an alpha but it was mostly his scent that confused people. It was very tame and more discreet that most omega. The only thing “omega” within Bucky had been his physical affection and protective nature. However, he had lost those qualities with HYDRA. Sam had never known him that way, there would be too much of a gap with the brooding and cold man he knew he was usually. It would feel like a lie to act affectionate now.
“Bucky ? You’re here man ?”
“Yes. Sorry. Goodbye.”
He hung up.
Notes:
Why so frustrating, Bucky ?
Anyway, we get a glimpse at Bucky's struggle with his image as an omega, some of what it implicated within HYDRA (we'll see more about that later), as well as a few hidden clues concerning the futur plot ;)I hope it wasn't boring, there wasn't much action but I think it's important for the story itself and for Bucky's character to focus on his mental state and on how it worked with HYDRA.
Let me know if you liked it or if you have questions !
Chapter Text
The nerves of this guy. The nerve ! Sam was fuming, scowling at his phone. First, Bucky basically kick him out of his appartement. Then he proceed to ignore him and when, Hallelujah, he grace him with a phone call, he hang up on him. And finally, he dares to ignore every one of his call and texts after. Sam didn’t know if he was more angry or worried. Despite his anger, Sam couldn’t forget the unease in Bucky’s voice and he couldn’t help but imagine the worst scenarios. What if Bucky was trying to warn him that he had been kidnapped ? What if had been injured ? What if ? Shit. Okay, he had decided.
He grabbed his stuff and left the hotel he was staying in, sending a quick message to Torres. He was working on government stuff that he was supposed to share with him later but it would have to wait. He took a taxi, not willing to loose any time, relieved to still be in New York because of a meeting he had tomorrow. In no time, he stood before Bucky’s door, happy to have had the opportunity to learn which one it was a few days ago.
“Bucky ?” he asked as he knocked. “You’re here man ? Bucky ?”
He was halfway through deciding that smashing down the door was a good idea when finally, it opened. Bucky sticked out his head and he was relieved to see nothing alarming other than the mess of his hair and the dark circles beneath his eyes.
“…what are you doing here ?” he asked blankly.
“What I’m- Are you serious ?” The relief gave way to anger. “Man, you’re an asshole ! After days of ghosting me, you finally call me back to then hang up before saying anything ? Guess what Bucky, I’m here because I was worried !”
He excepted Bucky to deny the cause of his concern or even ignore him but finally, he just gazed aside. “’M’sorry. It wasn’t on purpose,” he sighed as he let him inside.
They studied each other in silence, a cautious yet tired gaze meeting his own with something he couldn’t quite point out. Was it eagerness ? Hope ? He noticed the smell then ; spices and fresh flowers that he recognized belonging to the omega in front of him. He took a curious sniff, the pleasant scent giving him goosebump and the sudden urge to nuzzle into the man. It was stronger than usual, the habitually feint scent now softly but surely permeating the air. It wasn’t overwhelming or cloying like most omegas but the difference was there and it clicked in Sam’s head that Bucky was in heat. Bucky noticed his realization, if the embarrassed blush was anything to go by.
“Are you okay ? I didn’t realized it was time for your heat,” he apologized, now a bit guilty to have barged into his appartement like that.
To be honest, Sam should have guess from the out of ordinary affectionate gesture from Bucky the other day. He had noticed his scent was a bit stronger but after having spent a night surrounded by it, he didn’t think much of it. Truth was, he sometime forgot Bucky was an omega. He didn’t act like one, he didn’t look like nor did he usually smelled like one ; plus male omegas were rare. Omegas of course didn’t have to possess all those characteristics and a good portion didn’t apply to all those clichés but, well, when one didn’t present any of those, it made it harder to acknowledge their secondary gender.
“I’m fine,” he affirmed but Sam frowned. There was an edge to his voice and tension in the set of his shoulders that he didn’t miss.
“Do you want me to stay with you ?”he proposed. “My sister, Sarah, she’s an omega too so I’m used to it.”
It may not be appropriate, he realized just as he opened his mouth. They weren’t that close and Bucky was a very private person. Still he disliked the idea of just leaving him on his own. All the omegas he had talk about heat with had all explained their need to feel close to someone, be it in a sexual way or not. Sarah was the same, even if she was way more patient with her kids than with Sam himself when he was there. Where she would be all cuddle, treasuring and cooking for Cass and AJ, she acted all growly and annoyed with him to finally tackle him into a hug. Bucky didn’t answer him and Sam tried not to feel disappointed.
“Ok. I’ll go if you don’t want me here, just call me if you need anything, okay ?” He nodded to the man who didn’t meet his eyes before turning around.
Well, shit. At least he knew the man wasn’t in danger. He was stopped by the grip of Bucky’s hand around his wrist.
“Wait ! You can stay,” he declared with wide eyes; “It doesn’t bother me.”
Sam smiled wide, a surge of relief he couldn’t contain. He was going to take care of the man, he decided.
ooOOoo
“I’m back !” he announced twenty minutes later, a bag full of food in his arms. Sam was hungry and he had seen Bucky’s fridge so he was pretty sure the man was too. “Four pizzas for us and I hope you like spicy chorizo.”
“No, I prefer them with ananas,” he grumbled back and Sam would have given him shit about it if he didn’t know that the man was pulling his leg. He joined him on the couch, putting the pizzas down on a lonely chair which served as a table ; Bucky didn’t own one.
“It’s really time you invest in furniture, man,” he complained as they started to eat, Bucky slowly relaxing.
“I don’t need them.”
“Sure, sure. Just sayin’, a coffee table would be handy,” he teased, knowing their slight banter made Bucky at ease. Then he frowned when he realized the way bigger problem. “Shit, you don’t own a TV, do you ? I wanted to show you something.”
“I don’t need a television,”he declared.
Sam rolled his eyes. “Nobody need a television Bucky but it’s still useful so stop being an annoying grand pa and just get one already ! I want to show you the Lord of the Ring, you’re gonna love it.”
The omega seemed to want to retort something but he eventually hummed in vague agreement, visibly too interested in watching the movie to deny him. He was a nerd, Sam though fondly.
“We can watch it on my phone, if you want ?” Sam proposed.
“On this tiny thing ?” he cocked his head, dubious. Sam raised an eyebrow before Bucky shrugged. “Sure, why not. They better not have ruined the books.”
That’s how they finished close to one another on the sofa, Sam holding the phone. He could tell Bucky was into the story and damn if he wasn’t proud of his idea. Sam himself liked the lord of the rings but if he was being honest, he wasn’t too focused on it. It was hard to, when Bucky was leaning little by little more on him as the minutes passed. The man was distracting, him and his scent. Being a beta, scents and pheromones didn’t affect him a lot but he could still appreciate them and he sure as hell did right now. He hid it to the omega, not sure how he would react to his opinion.
One hour into the movie was when Bucky’s head fell onto his laps. Sam knew the man had stopped following the movies minutes ago, his breathing calm and even and his posture relaxed like he had never witnessed before. It was heartwarming as much as it was sad to realize how much on his guard he constantly was. He didn’t let it startle him, unwilling to disturb him. The omega curled around Sam, his nose pressing into his stomach as Sam tried to control his breathing and his heartbeat. He raised his head hesitantly and let his fingers curl around Bucky’s hair.
“Is… Is that okay ?” he asked softly, careful not to bypass his boundaries.
Bucky gazed up at him, a softer look he though he could ever see on him before nuzzling into his abdomen, a soft and barely perceptible vibration coming from him. A hot sensation exploded into him when he realized the omega was purring. He was a mess, Sam knew. He doubted Bucky was coherent enough to understand what he was doing any more. He petted his hair to distract himself, his eyes burning as he wondered how much time exactly had passed since someone had been by his side during his heat. It was a bit alarming to see him so out of character and control and Sam silently cursed himself not to have though about it before.
Back when he was working with VA, he had known a few alpha and omega who had been through the same lack of control and vulnerability during their ruts and heats after their return. Trauma could have an effect on cycle and for a guy full of trauma like Bucky, this difficulty wasn’t surprising. He had assumed that Bucky was fine on his own and probably preferred it that way because it was logical, wasn’t it ? Big scary assassin with a scowl couldn’t have the same instinct any omegas had, could he ? Stupid, stupid Sam.
“I’m sorry I never asked myself how you felt about it,” he murmured.
For once in his life, Sam regretted not being an alpha. His status as a beta satisfied him plenty, not having to deal with heats or ruts. But being a beta meant he couldn’t purr for Bucky. He remembered his father, when he was little, used to purr to reassure him or console him when Sam was sick or this one time he broke his arm. It was such a comforting feeling, especially coming from his usually so stoic father, his soothing alpha voice a balm to every troubles little Sam had back then.
Some time passed and Sam installed himself comfortably on the couch, his back on the arm set and Bucky still glued to him between his legs, trying to move slowly as not to wake the man who had fallen asleep. He was a bit unsure as how to act, battling between his need to take care of the man and honest to god cuddle him ; and respecting what he though Bucky would want in his normal state. But what came in front of his mind was that Bucky had called him. The emotionally constipated cyborg had called him and that meant something. Plus, Sam wanted to take care of him. He had helped out others omegas during their heat before, mainly his sister but also a few colleague back in Afghanistan. Just being there, letting them be affectionate as much as they desired and even hugging them if they wanted to, it was something he and most people did gladly.
Yet he could recognize to himself it was different with Bucky. He felt so much fondness and endearment for the man this moment swelling inside his chest, it was a little disconcerting. He knew Bucky – with good reasons - didn’t trust easily and to be allowed this close made him feel privileged. Possessive too, if he was being honest. He couldn’t imagine nor did he want to imagine anybody else with him like that.
He checked his mails, settling some business he hadn’t had time to fix yet ; he took advantages of his free time to talk with Sarah and take news from his nephews before navigating on the web to be update with the news all around the world. His right tight was a bit numb, supporting Bucky’s head and his arm but he ignored it dutifully continued to caress his hair. The act was enjoyable and soothing, the soft spikes tingling pleasantly against his skin.
The rest of the day passed in a blur, Bucky staying close to him without talking much apart from soft agreement and hum to Sam’s questions and comments. He seemed contented, reclaiming touches by nuzzling and pressing close to him when he wanted to. He spent some time alone, Sam willingly letting him go when he went away. They ate something Sam cooked back on the sofa while watching some dumb TV show, Bucky’s back to his chest as Sam held the phone. When Sam kept yawing and felt his eyelids drop, he decided it was time to sleep. There was a moment of hesitation where he wondered if he should go, but he quickly made his mind when Bucky all but dragged him onto his mattress. The omega spooned him from behind like an octopus and he didn’t hide his laughter at that.
“V’got three good things ‘bout today,” Bucky mumbled. “T’s all about you.”
Sam wasn’t sure to understand what he was saying but he felt warm nonetheless.
“Good night Bucky,” he settled for.
ooOOoo
The next day, Bucky was still in a daze. They ate breakfast together but Sam had to leave because he had a meeting with the government. It was bothering him but that wasn’t something he could just discard. He assured Bucky he would be back in the afternoon and fortunately the omega didn’t protest because Sam might have had to invent some alien threat to stay with him otherwise. Bucky scented him before letting him go with a satisfied grin on his face, Sam feeling his face burn more by the sheer satisfaction his expression held than by the act itself.
He met Torres on his way, the young man greeting him with a cheerful wave. “You’re good ? I was worried when you cancelled our zoom yesterday,” he explained.
“Nah, I’m good. I had to take care of… of a friend,” he eventually supplied, not willing to divulge Bucky’s situation.
Torres nodded comprehensively before frowning and leaning closer.
“It smells good,” he remarked before glancing curiously at Sam and he couldn’t help the slight jealous feeling that burst inside him at the comment. It wasn’t something he wanted to share with anyone, he realized even though he felt a bit shameful at his reaction. Then Torres’s eyes widened, and he took a step back, embarrassed yet amused. “Sorry ! It’s just unusual for you to have a scent on you. Are you seeing someone ?” he questioned, excited.
Sam could understand the question. Spending a heat or a rut with someone wasn’t uncommon but the act of scenting generally testified of something more intimate.
He shook his head. “Nah kid. Now stop with the gossip and let’s go,” he declared and ignored the disappointed expression on the man’s face.
The meeting was pretty boring, which wasn’t surprising but Sam had a harder time than usual to focus on what was being said. He couldn’t help but think about Bucky. He hoped he was alright on his own, even though the rational part of his brain told him he had spent years alone before during his heats. Still, the image and the sensation of them cuddling on the sofa kept flashing through his mind. He felt like an adolescent with a crush, which was embarrassing.
Was it what was happening, though ? Had he a crush on Bucky ? He mulled over the question for a few seconds before being pulled out of his though by someone. He had followed just enough to give an appropriate comment but yeah, he needed to focus.
“The engine was destroyed but it’s something we need to keep an eye on. Mr Wilson, you’ll be our primary contact for this sort of problem. I reckon this Dr Strange personage is more an expert of those matter ?”
Apparently, a guy had built a machine to bring back his family from another universe. Because yeah, travelling through the multiverse was possible, which shouldn’t be that surprising giving that Steve had technically done that, but still. Anyway, the man had lost all of them in an accident, which was very sad but the human beings he had brough to their reality had quickly transformed into monsters so they had to be eliminated after having killed twelve people.
“He’s more of an expert than me, that’s for sure,” he confessed. “I’m not really close to the guy but I’ll contact him if needed.”
That seemed to satisfy the assemble and they moved on. Since Steve had given him the shield, he had been more requested by the government; not as Captain America, but as a competent soldier with nice gadgets. Sam wasn’t sure how he felt about that. Mostly, he was glad to be put at use to help people and to have people recognize his talent. Sam wouldn’t show false modesty : he was good at what he did and he knew that. He was grateful too not to be forced upon Captain America role : because he wasn’t.
Steve Roger had been one kind of a guy, one that he couldn’t just replace. He was touched that the man had judged him worthy of his legacy but if he was being honest, he himself didn’t feel the same. How could someone, especially Sam, be ever worthy of such a name ? Every time he saw the shield in his appartement, he felt a heavy weight in his chest and he postponed the big question : what to do with the shield ? He couldn’t resolve himself to use it, yet giving it away felt like betraying Steve. Yet despite all that, he couldn’t help but wonder why the government hadn’t press him to become the next Captain. He knew they wanted a new one for the people, a symbol of hope and strength during these troubled time. He did know the answer, inside himself. Sam wasn’t blond, he hadn’t blue eyes and he wasn’t white. That was as simple as that and he felt bitter about it.
The meeting ended after what felt like too many long hours and Rhodey met him afterward. He had news from the Asgardians about the Jotun matter and Sam was impressed with his quick effectiveness.
“It’s technically possible for someone to be absorbed into an infinite stone. They never witnessed it directly but they are pretty sure that’s what happened with the Jotuns. Apparently, the Asgardians led by Odin fought against the ice giants thousand of years ago, on earth. In Norway, precisely, that’s why they appeared back then, as if they never moved.”
“Well, damn,” he whistled. “Poor bastards must have been surprised. But why now ? Who freed them ?”
“We have supposition. They appeared just after Thanos was vanquished. Valkyrie thinks it’s because of Stark, that when he snapped his fingers, the stones were destroyed and released so much energy that it released the Jotun out. The titan wielded the stones, he knew perfectly how to use them so he knew how to handle their energy like he wanted to, but not Stark, he probably gave everything in the snap.”
He nodded. “Yeah, that’s make sense. Well that’s a good thing we know what happened. Do we know if there was anybody else stuck in the stones ?”
Rhodey shrugged. “We can’t be sure. Not that we are aware of, anyway, but probably not. Plus, the stones were also a lot on others planets so it could have happened to others species on others planets. Not our problem,” he concluded and Sam had to agree.
They parted way, Sam declining Torres’s offer to eat something with him. He was impatient to go back to Bucky and wanted to be sure he ate something comestible. He was greeted back by an affectionate Bucky scenting him again and Sam couldn’t help but imagine a world where this was his daily routine. The rest of the day was spent lazily, pretty much like yesterday. Bucky went to sleep while Sam called Sarah, careful to speak quietly. To her credit, she didn’t gave him too much shit when he explained with who and vaguely why he was staying with. Then he joined Bucky in his room, not to actually sleep with him given that he seemed fine without him but to check on him.
The man wasn’t okay, he realized quickly. His body was rigid, his breath short as he exhaled shakily with grunts that sounded painful. Sam recognized nightmares when he saw one, having himself his fair share of them. His scent was stronger and sourer too, tinted with a faint smell of… arousal ? He hesitated, uncertain on how to handle the issue; waking up a war veteran with a ton of trauma and a vibranium arm not as easy as it sounded.
“Buck ? Wake up, it’s just a nightmare,” he called out softly. He continued when he didn’t get any reaction. “Buck, come on man, you’re okay.” He approached slowly, reaching out to slightly touch his shoulder.
It was a mistake.
The omega woke up all at once, eyes wide open. He jumped on his feet and he bared his teeth, letting out a loud growl he honestly though only alpha could emit as one of his hand shot out to protect the side of his neck. Sam quickly stood back, raising his hand in a non-threatening position.
“It’s okay ! I’m sorry to wake you up, you were having a nightmare,” he tried to explain in a calm tone.
He wasn’t sure Bucky was recognizing him and his heart clenched when he realized than more than anger in his eyes, there was fear. The instinctive movement of protecting his neck was all too telling and devastating to even think about. They stood in silence a long time, Bucky tracking his every movement.
“Bucky ? Are you ok-“
“Leave,” Bucky let out coldly. Sam blinked, surprised to hear him speak so clearly and calmly.
“Is it-“
“Leave. Please,” he added.
Sam tried to ignore the hurt in his chest and finally nodded. He grabbed his stuff before turning around.
“Goodbye. Just… call me if you need me. Please,” he pleaded sadly, trying to meet the omega’s eyes without success. He didn’t get any response, and sighed before leaving. It felt like defeat and cowardly to abandon Bucky to his demon but he honestly didn’t know if staying would help him. Would forcing comfort on him would be, well, comforting ?
He felt numb. The night was pretty cold for summer and Sam had the sudden urge to cry as he looked up to the stars barely visible in the sky. He couldn’t get Bucky’s guarded expression out of his mind, his posture defensive with his palm guarding his mating gland.
Sam knew the man had been bonded. Bucky always hid his neck with tissue but he had witnessed the scar back in his Winter Soldier days. Sam wasn’t stupid and he still remembered Steve’s sadness when he saw the same scar. He had obviously been bonded against his will, probably in the early stage of his capture giving the fact it had healed a lot. Sam wanted to rip into pieces the disgusting alpha who did this but it was pretty sure he was dead already.
Luckily, it wasn’t too late and after walking a little, he was able to find a taxi to bring him back to his hotel. He laid on his bed, sleep evading him as he stared at the ceiling. He hoped Bucky would call him tomorrow and that he was okay.
Notes:
I just love to see them cuddle...
Too bad Buck freaked out at the end but he has his reasons. Don't worry though they'll resolve this !I sprinkle a little bit of *plot* in this chapter but the story really start next chapter !
Hope you liked it.
Chapter 5
Notes:
Here we are, at the begining of TFWS ! I skipped the moments that were identical as in the serie and changed some things for plot and personal taste purpose. Have a good read !
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
“You can’t just close of and ignore every issue just because you want to, James.” Dr Raynor sighed.
Bucky rolled his eyes, given that was exactly what he indented to do. To his annoyance, it was a bit similar as what Shuri had said herself. Bucky had gave a vague explanation about “the issue”, without giving any details but the woman was smart, she had read between the lines.
They stood in silence for a few more seconds before she sighed again, pulling out her pen and notebook. He groaned.
“Come on, really ? The notebook thing ? It’s passive aggressive,” he grumbled. “What do you want me to say, doc, I’m fine ! I’m living my life without killing anyone so that should be enough, right ?”
“Despite what you might think, I don’t wish you to just stop killing people, James. I wish for you to actually get better.”
“Well, I am, thank you,” he bit off.
“Really ?” she scoffed. “I’m not an idiot. You are withdrawing from everyone and the world around you, James.” He opened his mouth, ready to deny it but she interrupted him. “When was the last time you went to the shelter ? And talked to a human being, not just the dog you are fond of.”
“I went last week, actually,” he declared defiantly and proudly. “And yes, before you ask, I actually talked with another human being. Meredith was there and Shuri called,” he added when seeing her questioning and doubtfull expression.
She seemed surprised but pleased hearing this. “Well, it’s not as bad as I though,” she acknowledged. “What about Sam Wilson ? Are you still ignoring the man ?”
He felt a pang at his chest, decisively ignoring it. It had been six weeks since- since he last saw him. Bucky… missed him. But that was one of the reasons he couldn’t contact Sam. He couldn’t afford to like the man more than he already did.
« Well, I’ll take that as a no,” she snarked drily. “He’s another one of your issue you can’t ignore, James.”
Yet that’s what he had done for the last weeks. Ignoring every message and call from the man until they stopped entirely. He felt really guilty about it, knowing Sam deserved better. But he was doing him a favor, too. Sam would be better without a broken killer cyborg into his life.
“Why don’t you contact him ? I’m not trying to tell you what to do,” she added when she saw him react to her question. “I’m genuinely curious as to understand why you think you can’t talk to him.”
He looked away, ashamed. Because he could pretend that it was all for Sam’s sake but he was an egoist. He didn’t care enough about what was best for the man, if so he would have never connected back with him in the first place. No, Bucky wanted to be friend with him, like they had started to be like. But every time he though about replying back, the burning shame of how he had acted back then was just too unbearable. The few days during his heat were a bit blurry, yet he still remembered how gentle Sam had been ; his voice, his words, his gestures. He didn’t want to think about it ; yet sometime, at night, all he could do was just that, leaving him in a perplexing dual sensation of comfort and love yet loss and shame.
Shame, again and always. He had done a lot of shameful thing in his life and his behavior back with Sam wasn’t the worst one, yet it was the one he felt the more vividly about right now. He had lost every ounce of control, his head in a cloud of pheromones and lost in happiness as he had all but whined to be cuddled. Gosh, as if Sam hadn’t better things to do ! But what truly caused him to ghost Sam had been what came during that night. Bucky had a lot of bad dreams, which he rarely remembered the content of. He remembered this one just because of the context when he woke up, actually. It had start with Rumlow, then it was Sam, and it was good, so fucking good. In a sex way but also and mostly an intimate one. But then it was Steve, expect it wasn’t really Steve, it was HYDRA and it wasn’t good anymore, yet it was. There was his last handler and he loathed him and all of sudden he was scared but Bucky was still up and horny. He woke up like that, Sam in front of him, feeling frightened with a hard on.
“I don’t know,” he finally answered lamely. “It would be awkward, suddenly speaking to him after ignoring him for weeks.” She stared in silence, pensive.
“Do you want to know what I think ? I think you’re scared. I’m not stupid, James. You told me your last heat happened six weeks ago and that’s when you stopped speaking with Mr. Wilson. Now, I don’t know what happened but I doubt either of you did something that justify never talking to each other again. Am I correct ?”
Part of him wanted to deny it but he was tired and, shit, if Raynor could actually help him sort out his feelings, why the hell not.
“You kinda are. Sam was a perfect gentleman as always. Me… doc, I cuddled with him for hours. I don’t do that anymore, yet I didn’t think about it. How- how fucking humiliating is that ? We’re not that close, you know. He’s a good guy and I know he care for me on some level but we’re really not that close,” he explained, desperate for her to understand how messed up he was.
“Do you think cuddling is something inappropriate to be ashamed of ?”
“Yes, when it comes from me ! I- How – I don’t understand how I can enjoy this after all the shit they did and all the people I’ve murdered. I kill all of those people and still want a hug after that ? Seriously, what kind of freak am I ?” he quivered.
“James…” she called out softly. “Give yourself some respite. You need to learn to forgive yourself for something that was out of your control. Wanting safe physical contact does not make you are a freak, as you put it. You’ve been denied of every basic need of intimacy for seventy years, it’s normal to wish for it now you are in safe condition, just as it is normal to have difficulty and to struggle with heat when your instincts are in contradiction against everything you’ve learned in the past.”
“But that’s it, doc. I liked some moments of my heats during my captivity. What is my excuse for liking them back then ?”
She once again took her sweet time and he regretted asking.
“I don’t know what happened with HYDRA – and I’ll gladly listen if you feel the need to talk about it. But what I can tell you with perfect certainty is that you weren’t in any condition to consent. If you had moments of comfort, be it out of physical response or because someone genuinely showed you basic human decency, it doesn’t matter. Feeling comfort, attachment, pleasure, hatred… it doesn’t matter. It’s not sign of crazy, James. It’s just sign of survival. And if I’m being honest, you being able to feel humans emotions after years and years of abuse and dehumanization ? It’s impressive, that’s what it is. Nothing less, nothing more.”
He didn’t realize his eyes were burning until he felt a hot tear rolling down his cheeks. He sniffed, quickly wiping it away. She smiled gently.
“I know you won’t believe it yet but I think you need to hear it anyway and I hope one day you’ll come to believe it."
She was right. He of course couldn’t believe those words, even though he objectively understood them and knew she meant them. They weren’t friend so she wouldn’t feel the need to validate him ; she wasn’t a stranger so she wouldn’t feel the need to hate him.Yet it was such a relief to hear, from someone in her position.
“Our seance is almost over. I’d like you to think about how Sam perceived the whole thing, and not by your depreciating lenses but by how you genuinely and rationally, knowing the man, think he would. I believe a lot of your difficulty with other people derive from the shame you feel about your status as an omega. If-“
“I’m not ashamed of being an omega,” he cut firmly. “I’m really not, I never was,” he added seeing her dubious expression, because it was the truth. “It’s me I’m ashamed of,” he quietly explained. She nodded comprehensively.
They finished their seance on this sad confession. Bucky went back to his apartment with his head full of though and a hesitant yet growing resolution to resolve thing with Sam.
He arrived in front of his door and, as he was fighting very hard not to scratch the fading mark in his neck, he stopped abruptly. Something was wrong, was his first intuition. There were people inside, he then realized.
He silently took out a small knife always on his person and rapidly opened the door, ready to attack. What welcomed him froze him in place. What the - ?
“Ah ! Sergeant Barnes, welcome home. You’ll excuse us for invading your apartment, your landlord gave us the key.”
In front of him stood someone wearing a replica of Steve’s suit, his ugly mud hidden behind the same helmet. Beside him was a black man in a battle suit too.
“My name is John Walker and this is my partner, Lemar Hoskins, although you’ve probably heard of me.” The blond guy introduced himself with a pompous air.
“Who the hell are you,” he growled out. “And why the hell are you dressed like Captain America ?”
This John asshole raised an eyebrow. “You don’t know ? Well, it’s true that you don’t seem to own a TV but still. I’m the new Captain America,” he announced proudly.
Bucky felt rage boiling inside him, for the invasion of his privacy and the alpha scent that subtly but surely made way into his home ; but especially for the sheer audacity of this clown.
“You’re no Captain America,” he spited out. Then his eyes caught the round object behind his back. Stev- no, Sam’s shield. “Where the fuck did you get that ?” he exclaimed, furious and ready to kill them.
Lemar rose his hands in a peaceful manner, sensing the danger. “Wow, relax. The government chose him, we didn’t steal it or anything, I swear.”
“There is only two person who can pretend at this title and this shield and they’re either dead or not in this room.”
“Sam Wilson is not the owner of the shield anymore,” Walker explained. “He gave it away, as he should have done since the beginning if I’m being honest.”
“Ah ! There’s just no fucking way Sam would ever-“
“It was all in the news !” Lemar protested before showing him his phone. “Look, I’ve got it right here.”
The man was telling the truth. It was Sam fucking Wilson, giving a pretty speech before giving Steve’s last gift and legacy away. He felt like he had just been gutted. Then he gradually felt anger towards Sam. How dare he gave it away that easily ?
“Look,” Walker started. “I know you and Captain Rogers were friends. I’m not trying to replace him but I’m here to do my job. Be assured that I’ll try to be the best Captain America I can. We’re here today-”
Bucky was shaking his head before he even finished. “Yeah, no. Captain America isn’t just some dude the governement approved of.” He vaguely considered punching them to take back the shield but he had already enough biff with the government and there was something more urgent : demanding fucking explanation from Sam. “I don’t care about your business. Now get out of my appartement before I make you.”
“It’s about HYDRA. Are you really that indifferent ?” Walker smiled when he succeedly caught his attention. “ There has been a lot of movements recently from known members or former members of HYDRA. We’d greatly appreciate your help, as you are… well, you’re an expert when it comes to HYDRA.”
It irked Bucky, not sure if the man was trying to be funny or hurtful. He gritted his teeth together, obviously interested when it came to his previous captor but he didn’t need those two morons.
“Get out of my appartement and don’t contact me again,” he growled. “I’ll deal with HYDRA myself, now fuck off.”
Walker tried to argue but his colleague put a hand on his shoulder and shook his head. They got out, leaving him ruminating in his bitterness that the government though they could replace Steve with such an imposter. Then Sam came to his mind. What the fuck, Sam ?
ooOOoo
“You should have kept the shield !” was how he greeted Sam where he joined him on his working place. The man’s eyes widened in surprise before steeling into cold indifference. He tried not to let it affect him, forgetting his shame for anger, which was much easier.
“Hello to you too, Bucky,” he replied back neutrally, passing by Bucky without another glance. He frowned, annoyed.
“Seriously ? This is wrong, Sam, Steve gave it to you, not some puppet of the government !”
“I’m working, I don’t have the time for this,” he declared without even pausing.
“Did you know they were going to give it to this Walker dude ?” he asked again, not deterred.
Sam finally stopped in his track, suddenly turning back to face him.
“No, I didn’t know ! Of course I didn’t know !”
“This isn’t what Steve-“
“Ok man, fuck off. You ignore me -for the second time- for weeks and then you come here and unload all your righteous outrage without so much as a “hello” ? Fuck. Off.” He bit back, a real anger Bucky hadn’t witnessed within the man for a long time. It surprised him and his own anger quickly fell to give way to guilt.
“I- I mean, it’s Steve’s legacy, it’s important…” he tried.
Sam snorted. “Yeah, visibly a lot more than our relationship,” he answered bitterly. “Forget it. I genuinely don’t have time, Bucky. I’ve got a mission, so you can see yourself out.”
It pained him, realizing he had well and truly hurt Sam. He watched as the man began to turn back and he grabbed his arm, scared to let him go just like that.
“What’s this mission about ?”
“Rebels from east Europe whit too much strength to be all natural. Now let me go.” He shook of his grip and walked towards a quinjet, Bucky following him.
“I’ll go with you,” he decided.
“No you wont,” was his reply and he could almost hear the man rolling his eyes.
“Yes I will. Plus it might be super serum, so.”
He indeed ended in the quinjet right in front of Sam who was trying very hard to ignore him, which probably wasn’t that easy giving that there were the only one in it apart from Torres who was actually busy with the pilot. The kid had been surprised to see him, offering a wide smile and welcome before glancing Sam’s way, hesitant yet curious. Great, he was probably aware of their drama. Torres had also explained more precisely what the mission was about.
“The Flag Smashers are a group of rebels that appeared a few months ago. What earned our attention is their superhuman strength, I had an encounter with one of them so I can confirm that they’re strong as hell. We spotted them in a building near Munich, that’s where we are heading.”
Bucky understood it was pressing matter. A group of anarchist with superhuman strength ? That didn’t bod well. Anyway, now in front of Sam, all he could do was rack his brain to reconcile with the man. He realized he had placed his pride over his and Sam’s friendship and he needed to remedy his error. Raynor’s advice to try and perceive the situation from Sam’s point of view was helpful. Luckily, Sam’s anger had mostly faded and now he was mostly annoyed.
“Sam,” he began, clearing his throat. “I realize that I shouldn’t have kicked you out of my house and ignored you after like I did. I… I apologize,” he succeeded to make out. He was relieved that it caught the other man’s attention, who rose his head to meet his gaze. He was hoping for a reply but he merely stared.
“Hm, truth is, I was embarrassed. That’s it,” he awkwardly confessed, hoping the warmth he felt on his face wasn’t visible. Sam finally sighed.
“I get it, Bucky. I’m not mad at you for throwing me out, that was your right. But you can’t just ignore me every time it suits you, especially for so long. It really feels shitty. Anything could happen to you and I wouldn’t even know, how fucked up is that ?”
He felt warm, touched by the fact that despite everything, Sam cared about what could happen to him.
“Can we… be friend ?” he grimaced at how cringe it sounded but he was tired of the tension between them and it was time he showed a little courage towards Sam.
The man let out a chuckle before getting serious again. “I don’t know, Buck. Like, yes I want to be friend ok, that’s what I’ve been trying the last few months but if our friendship is resumed by a cycle of being ignored, I prefer not.” It hurt, especially knowing it wasn’t Sam’s anger speaking anymore ; Bucky couldn’t blame him.
“If you don’t want to talk or see me, just tell me man, I’ll understand. I know I seem like a social butterfly and all but I had moments too when I needed to be alone.”
He nodded back. “I won’t do it again, Sam, I swear. I-“
They were interrupted by Torres who approached them.
“Prepare yourself, we’re almost there.”
ooOOoo
“These were all supersoldiers,” he sighed.
“I know,” Sam answered back.
So, they had their ass handed to them and this was definitively super serum. Bucky was out of form, him being kicked out by, sure, supersoldier but one without extensive training, a proof of this fact. Sam and him had crashed in a field, Sam landing under him. They stood on their feet, grunting and Bucky tried to ignore how much he had missed human touch, even if said touch was coming from crushing Sam following his express rescue.
“You’re okay ?” the beta asked.
“Yeah. You ?” the man nodded back.
They reached the road and walked for a few minutes before hearing a car horn.
“That didn’t go as planned, huh ?” came the irritating voice of the wannabe Captain America. Him and his sidekick had joined the fight but obviously hadn’t have more success. Bucky rolled his eyes and they both ignored him as he offered them to jump onto the jeep.
“Well at least we know who we’re up against, now,” the blond man declared, not deterred. “Super soldier, who would have though ?”
He rolled his eyes once again, exasperated. “Us, for one. It was pretty obvious.”
“Well, I guess it would be for you- come on man, are you two really gonna walk to the airport ? Just jump onto the jeep.”
He exchanged a glance with Sam who shrugged. Why not ?
“So,” Walker began. “We’ve got 8 supersoldiers securing a shipment, why ?”
“They said they wanted things back how it was during the Blip. They want to help the refugees and give back the resources they lost when everybody came back. To them, the blipped should have stay blipped. They probably only want to help” Sam explained.
“Yeah, well, unstable revolutionary with super serum never helped anybody,” Walker declared and Bucky had to agree with the man.
“Usually said by the people with all the resources,” Sam bit back.
“True,” Walker acknowledged with a shrug of what can we do about it ?. “Look, I really think we could help each other. We need to learn where they were able to obtain the serum, to begin with.”
“Aren’t you already busy with HYDRA ?” Bucky asked suddenly.
“Yes, there is also that. Captain America is very much requested,” Lemar affirmed.
“HYDRA ? Aren’t they destroyed already ?”. Sam quipped.
“There has been some unusual movements from known members. Several people under surveillance disappeared, while some -mostly small fries- were found dead. We have two members, Benjamin Christen and Elise Possiny who escaped two months ago during a prison transfer. I actually wanted to know if you had any information on them, Bucky, when we came to see you this morning.”
He closed his eyes, sighing. “Yeah I know them. Both assholes but very talented people. Christen was close with Pierce, one of his commander with Rumlow. I don’t know his past or where he lived but he’s bad news and loyal to the cause. Elise is a psychotic bitch,” he spit out, remembering the hateful and jealous way she acted around him. “Pierce didn’t like her but she was too much of an asset to eliminate. She would have gave a decent fight against Romanoff.”
“Seriously ?” exclaimed Sam. “That’s worrying man, why the hell was I not informed ? Since when it is going on ?”
“We’re not sure but the first death was not so long after Thanos,” Lemar indicated.
Bucky eye’s widened. That was what, 6 months ago ?
“And nobody did anything during all this time ?” Sam voiced his though.
“Hey man, the government is doing his best,” Walker defended. “It was pretty chaotic after everyone was brought back so yeah, a few formers nazis disappearing or dying wasn’t exactly the priority. Plus, I’m here now, am I not ?”
Bucky scowled because that wasn’t a comforting thing. Despite trying to take a break from HYDRA’s business, he had kept a distant look on their former members and any news pertaining to them. The fact he wasn’t aware of Benjamin and Elise’s escape proved the government had hid it, for whatever stupid reason.
“You think there’s a link with the supersoldiers we just fought against ?” Lemar asked, curious.
Bucky frowned. “HYDRA would definitely be interested in supersoldiers but they would never employ them for petty revolution and refugees.” Plus they wouldn’t be so free. They would have been beaten, starved, rendered into compliance until they couldn’t even think by themselves, until-
Sam gently out his hand upon his biceps.
“Anyway, HYDRA and whoever is trying to form them back is trying to be discreet and the Flag Smashers have been anything but subtle.”
The other men nodded, visibly in agreement with his analyze of the situation.
“So, let’s focus back on the Flag Smashers. We should first-“
“Hey, wait a minute. Who said we were going to work together ?” he interrupted Walker.
“Isn’t it kinda obvious ? We have the same enemies. Look, I get it,” he sighed. “I get your hostility but I’m not trying to be Steve, I’m not trying to replace him. I just want to be the best Captain America I can and it would be a lot easier if I had his seconds with me.”
Wow, the nerve of this guy.
“Wow, ok. Yeah no I’m no one “second”,” Sam scoffed.
Walker rolled his eyes. “Come one you know what I mean !”.
“We weren’t Steve sidekick, asshole, we were his friends,” he scowled.
The blond man raised his hand in peace. They stood in silence for several minutes, Walker smart enough to let them cool down, which was a wise decision given that Bucky was very close to jump out the car. He relaxed a bit but still made a point to glare at the man while he reflected on their situation and Walker. His natural reflex was to hate the man, which he made easy with his light tone and unreflective comments. He took Steve place like it was easy, like you just needed to be a good obedient soldier and suddenly you had what it took. In his eyes, he was usurping not only Steve’s place but also Sam’s, who should be in this suit.
Yet, Raynor’s advice came to his mind once again. It hurt to admit but he could see where the man was coming from. Objectively, he was just a dude who had been given the chance by his government to be Captain America and was trying to do the best out of this opportunity. And to be fair, Walker had reached out to him and Sam without discarding the help they had furnished Steve. Only, it was difficult to be impartial when it was his best friend who he found back recently just to lose again who was being replaced. So yes, he wanted to be subjective about it ; but he also knew what it had led to with Sam, so he sighed and finally addressed Walker, mentally congratulating his maturity.
“I don’t like you and I’m not going to work for you. But we are against the same people so I agree to work with you like, at distance. We’ll keep you informed and you’ll do the same. Is that okay ?” he asked, more to Sam than anything.
The man seemed very surprised but agreed.
“Perfect ! You both took the right decision,” Walker declared, pleased with himself.
“Don’t make me regret already,” he scowled.
They traded number and spent the rest of their ride in silence while Walker and Lemar spoke between themselves. They were dropped of near the quinjet when Sam declared :
“I’m surprised you agreed to work with Walker, man. Honestly, I though you were either gonna punch him or jump out the jeep.”
He snorted. “Yeah, me too. This guy is annoying. But if we can gain information via these two, why the hell not…Sorry if I forced your hand back there”
“No man, it was the smart thing to do. He’s an asshole but he’s not a bad guy. I just hope we won’t have to see him too much,” he admitted.
“What, you don’t want to be friend with famous super hero Captan America ?” he snarked.
“Yeah, no, I’ve already got one asshole for a friend, I don’t need another one,” he grinned back.
Bucky looked back at him, hopeful. Did this mean… ? Sam perceived his expression and rolled his eyes.
“Yes, come on. Don’t make it weird.”
He smiled, gazing away as he bit his bottom lip to try and school his expression as not to “make things weird” but failed. Bucky was too relieved and happy for that. Sam and him were friend, it was official. This fact definitively made it at the top of the three good things of his day.
Notes:
Bucky is making progress, just like his and Sam relationship ! I hope it makes sense and isn't OOC
A quick word about Walker : the guy is a bit of a jerk but I never really understood why so much people disliked him ? I think it got better after Thunderbolt but still, I think even in TFWS the dude made sense.. So I understand why Sam and mostly Bucky would have a problem with him at the begining : as I tried to explain with Bucky POV, it's personal.
But I wish my Bucky to be mature enough to still be able to work with him, so I've done it !HYDRA makes its appearance... Though does it connect with the Flag Smashers ? And do they have a plan ?
Chapter 6
Notes:
From there, the story diverge a lot from the serie ! Let's go !
quick note : for the sake of this story, Rumlow didn't die, he never apeared back after TWS
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Torres had once again been very efficient. He was young and Sam tended to see him like a kid but the man liked to remind him he wasn’t. The morning after their return home, Torres announced he had news about the Flag Smasher. Bucky was kept in the loop and they met back at the base.
“You sure act fast, baby Falcon,” Bucky greeted.
The man appreciated Torres, Sam was glad to notice. It was hard to tell with Bucky being the grumpy old scowling man he was but at the same time it was easy to tell when he didn’t like someone. Plus he knew Torres had this history book about the Howling Commando he was dying to have Bucky sign.
“Well, I need to keep up with mama Falcon over there,” the young man offered with a cheeky smile, which made Bucky snort and Sam roll his eyes.
“So, what do you have for us ?”
“I’ve traced back where the Flag Smashers were formed. It’s in Madripore, a state in the Indonesian’s archipelago.” He saw Bucky briefly tick at the name before regaining a neutral expression.
“You know Madripore ? Why don’t I know Madripore ?” Sam asked, perplex.
“It’s not really an official country, it’s full of outlaw and pirates. I did some missions there back when I was the Winter Soldier,” he explained as Torres nodded his agreement.
“Exactly. It’s the perfect place for a new serum to be born out of government sight. I asked around, mainly mafioso, black market and a guy I know from CIA and apparently there is the rumor that a certain “Cross Bones” is their leader. We-
“Cross Bones ? Are you sure ?” Bucky interrupted sharply.
“Yeah, why ? You know them ?”
“No.” he denied. “It’s just a stupid name.”
“Kinda is,” Torres agreed easily. “Anyway, we don’t know a whole lot about them but they aren’t really trying to hide the fact they are involved with the Flag Smashers and the serum. The name popped up many time, although nobody was able to give me much information except that they seemed to be some kind of mercenary.”
“A mercenary leading a bunch of supersoldiers to rebel and help refugees ? That doesn’t sound very profitable,” Sam remarked. “The Flag Smasher probably don’t have the good intention I initially though,” he sighed.
Their method had been wrong anyway but he was disappointed that they at least hadn’t had some good will to help people.
“Ok so here’s the plan : we go to Madripore, we find Cross Bones and we find out how he got the serum. Then we work to arrest the supersoldiers but stopping whoever created the serum takes priority.”
“Sounds like a good idea. Madripore is pretty closed of and you can’t just arrive there as an Avengers, you’ll have thousands people gunning at your ass. I’m working on finding a smuggler,” the young man explained.
Sam nodded and turned back to Bucky who was oddly silent.
“Do you want to stay out of this one ? I know the HYDRA’s stuff takes priority for you, I won’t blame you if you focus on this matter.” It might actually be a good idea, he reflected. It was oddly comforting having Bucky by his side on mission, especially after loosing Nat and Steve ; yet having active HYDRA’s members on the loose was trouble and Sam didn’t trust Walker to resolve the problem. Plus it was personal for Bucky, far more than the serum was despite being himself a supersoldier.
“… No, I’ll come with you.” The man finally replied.
Sam was glad, despite his words. It was good seeing the man again after so long, even though Sam couldn’t help but still feel some bitterness to the six weeks worth of silence. He’d forgive the man because most people deserved a second chance and Bucky more than most ; and damn it if the man hadn’t succeed in forging himself a place in Sam’s heart. So yeah, he decided staying angry at Bucky wasn’t worth it.
So now that they were officially friends and he wasn’t focused on his anger, he could freely think back about Bucky’s heat. The man back there had seemed so different and yet now that he knew he existed, Sam paid attention and he could see glimpses of him into Bucky, saw glimpses of the man Steve had described with such fondness. It was in the soft, hesitant yet determined voice he used when he asked if they were friend and the pleased smile that followed, his eyes lightening. It was in the snarky yet amused way he called Torres “baby Falcon” ; the way he talked about Kitten the dog ; he had though the fondness and softness out of character back then but now he understood it really wasn’t. Bucky Barnes was an affectionate man at the core, he just didn’t want nor did he probably know how to express it anymore. And Sam found it so fucking endearing.
“I should go to Madripore alone,” declared Bucky.
… Forget what he said, this man was just stupid.
“What the fuck, Bucky ? Of course you shouldn’t.”
“Wait, just listen. I’ve been there so I’ll know how to move around without being spotted. It’s too suspicious if the Falcon go around a city like that.”
“That’s stupid and you know it. I’m not Captain America man, nobody knows my face and believe it or not, I know how to be discreet. Plus I’m not letting you go alone in that rats nest.”
“I’ll be fine on my own, I just-“
“That’s final, Buck, I don’t care what you say, I’m coming with you,” he closed the argument, Torres nodding energetically next to him. He wasn’t even angry because of how stupid his proposition was ; Sam didn’t understand why he would even propose that.
The omega nodded begrudgingly.
ooOOoo
They were in a small plane heading to Madripore. Sam tried to relax as he could which wasn’t easy given the fact he was pretty sure their pilot was drunk. Torres had found a smuggler who they had generously paid both for the fligh and his discretion. They were in civil thus not too recognizable, obviously not willing to bring any attention to themselves especially once in Madripore but they never were too careful. He let his gaze wander to Bucky who was mindlessly playing Candy Crush. Sam had had a good laugh about it as the man grumbled it was calming. He smirked when “game over” appeared on the little screen.
Bucky noticed his smirk.
“You’re annoying,” he glared at him.
Their attention were both caught before Sam could reply by the new notification that popped on the phone. He raised his eyebrow.
“A mail from Walker ? Wow, Buck, and here I though you hated the guy”
“I do,” he deadpanned as he opened it.
Sam read with him, Bucky tilting the screen in an invitation to do so. It was the recent information the man had about HYDRA. The spent a few minutes in silence, scrolling through the lengthy rapport. A list of former members and their current location if known ; a detail on every base that once held HYDRA’s activity. The majority had simply been destroyed, some by Bucky himself, Sam knew. A few had been used for far safer business. The police’s report for the eight ex HYDRA people who were found dead was furnished too. Yep, new Captain America was an ass but he had done his job, Sam had to admit.
A small paragraph caught his attention.
“The SHIELD’s NASA base ? They think it was HYDRA ?” he questioned aloud, surprised.
This base had been in the Mojaves desert, formerly one of the biggest scientific base under SHIELD’s authority. It had been destroyed in 2012 by Loki when the god had appeared on earth but had been built again after, although it never gained back its prestige.
Sam had been asked by Rhodey to try to find any survivor when it had been destroyed again 6 months ago. They weren’t any and it had been quite clear when he arrived on the scene that one, their death wasn’t natural and two, they were dead since a few days already. They hadn’t succeed in identifying what or who had attacked them ; Rhodey had theorized that it might have been aliens from Thanos army, given the fact the legist had dated the time of their death the day of Thanos’s invasion. Though there hadn't been sight of forced entry, so Sam wasn't sure.
“What do you know about this base ?” asked Bucky, curious.
“Not so much,” he shrugged. “They studied the Tesseract there for a few years before the north god Loki stole it and tried to invade earth. Man, those aliens are a real pain the ass. Thor is a cool guy but his brother ?” he snorted.
Bucky shrugged. “I don’t know, I don’t hate Loki,” he declared.
Sam turned to stare at him, surprised. “Why the hell not ? I mean, I didn’t met the guy but I don’t need to meet a sociopath to dislike him?”
“I’m not saying he’s a good guy or anything,” Bucky explained awkwardly, visibly regretting his words. “It’s just, the guy did me favor, so, you know.”
Sam stared. And stared some more.
“The guy who tried to enslave mankind did you a favor ?” he repeated, confused.
“Well, he didn’t do it on purpose,” the man clarified. He cleared his throat before adding : “They was HYDRA’s members inside the base when the building was destroyed. One of them was my former handler. I hated him ; Loki was the one who killed him.”
Sam processed in silence the oddity yet logic of this statement. It was rare for Bucky to confide anything about his past with HYDRA. He knew basically nothing about this period, and if he had known about the concept of handler from Steve, it still left a bad taste to even imagine the horror of it.
“Hm. Well, he did a good deed then. Doesn’t save him in my eyes but he gains some points,” he replied with a light tone, unwilling to make Bucky feel tense or guilty. He proceed then to explain what happened 6 months ago before reading what was written in the mail.
“They don’t really know if it’s them,” Bucky summarized. “They just suggested the link because the timeline correspond and they don’t have any clues.”
That was pretty much it. This base didn’t hold any value that could explain a potential interest for HYDRA to destroy it, zero valuable items, weapons or information had been held there so Sam really didn’t see why HYDRA would be interested in it. Still, the information they got was helpful. He just hoped Walker was making a good use out of them while they took care of the supersoldiers.
“Do you have any idea on how we could find Cross Bones ?” he questioned, hoping his past as the Winter Soldier would come in handy.
“HYDRA used to deal with the Monkey clan when they needed information. I think that’s a safe bet to start with. Their headquarter is in a discotheque, the Brass Monkey Saloon, we’ll go there.”
ooOOoo
He was following Bucky through the crowd of the nightclub as the man smoothly navigated between dancing people. They installed themselves at the bar and he tried to imitate his confidence and easy going manner. It was pretty baffling to witness the relaxed set of his shoulder and the way he blended in such atmosphere, especially with the contrasting sharp attentiveness of his gaze. It was moment like this that reminded Sam of Bucky’s status as deadliest assassin of all time. It was harder for Sam ; while parties were his forte, this type of crowd wasn’t. A lot of the partyer were armed and weren’t even trying to hide it. They were all criminals and in this city, they were kings.
“There is a stair behind the black curtain,” Bucky explained casually as if talking about the weather, Sam following his gaze to said curtain. “If nothing changed since last time, that’s where their leader is doing business. There is an armed guy standing guard near,” he indicated with a jerk of his chin to a tall and bald man with an earpiece. “We’re in luck, that probably mean their boss is upstairs right now, waiting for us to pick them up,” he announced pleasantly with a creepy smile.
“Yeah, well, we need to be pretty discreet if we don’t want to finish riddled with bullet’s holes,” he added. “We need a way to pass by that guy.”
“I can cause a brawl, get his attention away for a few seconds,” Bucky proposed.
“No… I get the feelings crowd’s fight aren’t a rare things there, I doubt he’ll care. Do you know if the pipes here are big enough for us ?”
He snorted. “Like James Bomb ?”
“Shut up, asshole. I’ve seen you’ve studied the classics. But seriously, it’s a nightclub so there is obliviously some serious pipeline going on. It’s an old building ; newer one are usually too small for obvious security issue but I doubt very much there was renovations recently.”
“You’re not wrong,” he acknowledged as they both studied the building. “There are some above the main scene but going in there without being seen seems pretty impossible. We should try the restrooms.”
They went and they indeed found one entry behind a grid, easily removed by Bucky once they were certain the toilets were clear. Sam was right, they fitted even though it was a close call.
“Wait, Sam. Maybe you should stay here, stand guard while I interrogate whoever I find. I can easily do it alone and securing our way back is important.”
“Absolutely not. We don’t know how many people there is up there. Plus, we can put the grid back, I doubt anyone will notice it was a bit roughed up. Come on.”
They made their way through the pipes, Bucky leading the way. Crawling wasn’t comfortable but easy enough ; the hard part was climbing. There was hardly anything to hold unto and Sam used sheer muscle force to move, legs and arms spread to hold onto the metal walls. Bucky had some serious power onto those tights, making it look easy as hell. Sam was equally jealous and appreciative of the view. Their way up fortunately came to an end and they continued more carefully, mindful of the fact the pipes could be near someone’s ear. They reached an exist and after checking nobody was in sight, they made their way out.
Sam let Bucky lead, the man visibly making effort to remember the map of these corridors from his presence years ago. They came to a stop when they spotted two men standing guard. Bucky confirmed with a nod the door they were standing in front of was their destination. They made a quick work of the both of them, a well aimed knife of Bucky finding his way through one’s throat, effectively cutting out any scream while Sam took profit of the surprise of the second man to punch him in the nose. The bass of the nightclub was in their favor, swallowing the softer sound. He kicked the guy in the back of the knees as he strangled him from behind, Bucky casually collecting his revolver from his grip.
Behind the door was a big room with a private bar and a few cozy looking divan, a woman whit short hair lounging on one with a small and frightened looking man in front of her on the other one.
“I told you not to-“ the woman began irritably before stopping short seeing them.
Bucky snorted. “Selby. I should have guess,” he grumbled.
She rose quickly on her feet, Bucky stopping her in her track with a raised gun. The other man squeaked, hiding behind the couch. Sam ignored him, deciding he was no threat and probably not one of Selby’s ally, giving his defensive posture even before they entered the room.
“Winter Soldier,” she greeted with a collected voice. He had to give it to her, she knew how to hold herself in the sight of danger. “And… Who would you be ?”
“We’re the one who have questions for you, not the other way around.” Bucky fired back calmly.
“Ah… You’re in a building surrounded by my men, how do you think you’ll get out of here, exactly ?”
“That’s our problem, not yours. Now, take a sit, we’ll be quick.” She obeyed grudgingly when the omega motioned her to move with his armed hand, eyeing them warily.
“To what do I own the honor ? I’ve heard the Winter Soldier was free from his old masters but I didn’t except him so… free,” she snarked.
“We’ve heard about the serum coming from Madripore. We want to know…” he quickly glanced at Sam, an hesitant look in his eyes that confused him. “We want to know who is behind its creation.”
“Now, why would I know about it ? A serum, really ?” she played coy. “Now, I’m guessing the charming young man standing in front of me is the Falcon in person. Sam Wilson, is that it ?”
He raised an amused eyebrow, offering her a smirk.
“Don’t bullshit us, Selby, there was nothing going inside Madripore the Monkey were not aware of and I doubt you’re not the same.”
There was a complicated expression that passed on her face, a mix between irritation and vexation before smoothing back to a neutral mask. Sam examined her, thoughtful and wondered if Bucky’s claim was as true as they had previously though.
“Well, I did hear about the serum. But now my next question would be why should I tell you anything ?”
“You should know I have the mean to make you talk,” Bucky growled through his teeth, Selby giving him an amused yet careful look. She wasn’t stupid, knowing they wouldn’t have the time to torture information out of her before someone noticed their presence ; not that Sam would let him do that eitherway.
“We don’t care about your business, you are not of interest for us ; even though that could change depending on your answers,” Sam intervened. “We are looking for Cross Bones. You know him ?”
“I know him,” she hummed. Sam sighed, getting annoyed very fast when she didn’t offer any other information.
“Look, it’s pretty clear what’s going on here. We have the power there ; I don’t want to torture you, that’s more his thing,” he pointed the omega next to him, “but what I don’t mind – I’d actually pretty like to do it- is to arrest you right now. Because, just as you said, I’m freacking Falcon and I have enough contact and friends to have you arrested in a nice prison in the USA, even in this city. So you either start to talk or we’ll forget our polite manners.”
She observed him, probably debating how true his words were, before shrugging.
“Oh well, why the hell not,” she finally decided, sighing with more annoyance than defeat. “I don’t know the man personally but I’ve made a few deals with him. He’s a mercenary, a pretty good one ; give him enough money and he’ll do whatever you want. I’ve heard recently he’s been leading a group of super soldiers – the Flag Smashers. That’s why you came here, I guess ?”
“When did he start recruiting these soldiers ?”
“I don’t know. He’s been in Madripoor since a few years already. I heard a week ago, like everybody in Madripore, that he was leading the Smag Flasher. Pretty surprised too as he didn’t look the type to lead a revolution or some other bullshit, but, well, here we are.”
“It might not be him, right ?” interrupted Bucky, somewhat sounding hopeful. “It’s pretty out of character for a mercenary to do that, like you said.”
She snorted. “Oh sweety don’t be naïve. The man probably have his own agenda in doing so. Plus, why the hell not ?”
“Do you know where we can find him ?” Sam asked.
“I don’t have any idea. He’s difficult to pin down. I’ve tried once, didn’t succeed,“ she explained and Sam believed her.
“Ok. About the person who recreated the serum, what can you tell us ?”
“His name is Wilfred Nagel. He’s a scientifique who work- worked for the Power Brocker. I don’t know how Cross Bones obtained the serum from him, though.”
“Why does he not work for them anymore ?” “Who is the Power Brocker ?” Bucky and Sam asked at the same time.
“I see only one of you did their homework before coming here,” Selby smirked, amused. “They are the king of this city -or, were. I’m not sure, it’s been difficult to keep up these last few months. They were the one with the most power and influence in this city, outside too. But there is a new player in town who is quickly climbing the ranks. He might just be the new king.”
“And you don’t think this new player you’re talking about is just Cross Bones ? I mean, if they got an army of supersoldier, it makes sense” Sam questioned, not sure where this conversation was leading them or even if it had any interest for them. They just wanted the serum and the leader, after all.
“Once again, I don’t know. I would say no, given the fact Cross Bones and the Power Brocker were known allied. He could have tried to extend his influence with the mafias years ago if he wanted, lead his own clan, he never did. Plus, he didn’t hide the fact he was the one leading the Power Brocker - in fact, he made sure the word spread- so why would he be discreet about his identity when becoming Madripore’s leader ?”
Sam nodded, accepting this logic and deciding to forget about the newcomer for now, given it might not have any link with their situation. That was Selby and the Power Brocker’s business, not his.
“So this Nagel dude doesn’t work for the Power Brocker anymore, he has a new boss. Probably Cross Bones, and that’s how he obtained the serum.”
He glanced at Bucky, who had been silent for some time now. He looked troubled, a frown on his face as he gazed into empty space.
“You’re okay, man ?” he asked quietly. It snapped Bucky out of his though.
“Yes, I’m fine.” He replied and Sam nodded in understanding.
“Well, if think we have all we need,” he declared, quickly grabbing Bucky’s arm as he raised his gun, ready to shoot Selby.
“What ? You’re going to let her live ?” he asked, incredulous.
“Yes man we are. Put your arm down,” he ordered, rolling his eyes at the man’s manners. He sighed, visibly annoyed but lowered his gun without fuss. “We are going, however, to tie you up to give us a head start,” he added Selby’s way whose grin fell off her face.
After being done, they made their way back through the corridor, coming face to face with the armed guard who was near the dancefloor. Both side came to an halt, surprised, before the man recovered and started shooting at them. Sam swore as Bucky stopped the bullet with his vibranium arm. His friend shot his own gun, the man crumpling with a shoot of pain.
“Shit, let’s get out of here before anybody else arrive !” Sam exclaimed.
They did, eventually breaking through a window when they noticed the little army swarming between the intrigued partyers. A few more minutes with Selby and they would have been in real trouble, Sam realized. They created a reasonable distance before slowing down their rhythm and allowing themselves to settle into a dubious fast food. Sam was starved and he could guess Bucky and his super metabolism were too.
“So, we know who created the serum and for who ; we just don’t know where either of them are,” Sam summarized their situation. “I wondered if we should keep Walker informed ?” he mused aloud.
“No. Say what ? Hey, we have the name of the scientifique dude but not either of their localization, so we’re really not that close to stopping the Flag Samsher ? Nop, without me.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” Sam conceded.
They ate their burger in a comfortable silence and even though it wasn’t nearly as good as it should be, it still satisfied his stomach.
“We should find a place for the night. Gaining Cross Bones and Nagel’s location is going to be harder than I though, we might have to stay a day or two.” Sam declared, already tired at the prospect of passing more time in this city. “I think we’ll have better chance with the Power Brocker, whoever they are, if they are Nagel’s old boss.”
“Yeah but the Power Brocker is virtually a gosht. Everybody know him and fear him on some degree but very few actually know him. Finding them isn’t going to be easy either.”
“Wasn’t the Power Brocker already in power back where you were with HYDRA ?”
“No, why would you think that ?”
“I don’t know man, you seem to know their reputation, how come you have knowledge of some king from a outlaw city like Madripore if not by HYDRA ?”
“Oh !” Bucky let out as if caught red handed. “I just, huh, kept an eye on Madripore since I was free, so a big name like the Power Brocker wouldn’t escape my notice.”
Sam got that. If one was interested in Madripore, it wasn’t difficult to hear about the Power Brocker. But that was just the thing : why would Bucky be interested in Madripore ? Like, it was a dangerous city of course but their business shouldn’t concern Bucky personally. Before he could voice his though, the man spoke again.
“I think you should go back to the USA tomorrow, Sam. The Flag Smashers aren’t in Madripore, just their creator. They need to be contained before they make any real damage. You take care of them with Torres, Rhodey and Jake could help you too, while I search in Madripore,” Bucky proposed tentatively.
Slowly but surely, anger started to rise in him. He could recognize some logic in the man speech ; but he was pretty sure it hadn’t anything to do with executing an effective mission that motivated Bucky even though he didn’t know what did.
“Ok Bucky, what the fuck is going in on ? You’ve been trying to make me leave ever since we’ve mentioned Madripore ; don’t think I didn’t notice.”
It probably wasn’t some misplaced feeling for Sam’s safety neither : Bucky had never tried to stop him or coddle him from any mission.
“What ? No I didn’t,” he denied but if Sam could acknowledge he was a good liar, he knew him too well to be fouled.
“Yes you did. Multiple time. Stop being weird and just give me an explanation because it’s seriously starting to piss me off.”
Bucky evaded eye contact, a gesture that he knew meant he was nervous.
“I’m not…” he voice gave out as he frowned, his expression turning alert as he scanned the area.
“What-“
“Shh.” The man stood and quietly pulled out his gun.
As Sam examined their entourage, he understood his wariness. There are been three other tables when they arrived ; they were all gone expect for a new comer wearing a black hood in the center of the room, turning their back to them. The thing that stood out for Sam however the lack of server at the checkout, especially in a city full of thieves and gangster. They made their way to the figure in black and as they neared, they finally reacted, a feminine laugh ringing out.
“Well, you took you sweet time. You need to be more aware of your surrounding in a city like Madripore, Sam, Bucky.”
She turned around, letting momentarily Sam speechless.
“Sharon ?”
She grinned.
“Hello boys.”
Notes:
I totally had Crowley in my mind with the "hello boys" ; supernatural fan I know you've got the reference 😁
The plot is plotting ! There is a few new informations in this chapter, wonder how or if everything connect... Do you have any theory ?
Chapter 7
Notes:
TW : there are heavy implication of past rape, so be careful if it's something triggering for you.
Chapter Text
Bucky didn’t remember Sharon Carter that much. The last time he saw her was when she helped them before they went on the run. He had just recognized her as an ally and Steve’s girl, his mind much more focused on the other problem at the time. What he knew was that she used to work for SHIELD, thus seeing her in Madripore was quite unexcepted. Sam was as much at lost as he was, given his expression.
“What are you doing here ?” Sam exclaimed.
She raised an eyebrow.
“I live here, if you must know. You know, after I was banned from the USA because I helped you guys,” she spit viciously.
“Sharon, I’m sorry-“ Sam started.
“Yeah, you’re sorry. Still didn’t do much to help me, did you ? I don’t talk to my own family anymore, and that’s your fault.”
They both grimaced, the truth of that statement impossible to deny. Bucky hadn’t think about Sharon once, if he was being honest. There was an awkward silence when they both fidgeted under her glare. Sam sighed before addressing her.
“We did you dirty, Sharon. There’s no excuse for that and you deserved better. For that I’m sorry. Truth is between our own fugitives day, Thanos then the blip, it slipped my mind. That’s no excuse, I realize but I swear I’ll try to right that wrong.”
It bothered Bucky. Not because he though Sharon didn’t deserved an excuse but because it shouldn’t come from Sam. They didn’t really know each other and clearing Sharon’s name should have been Steve’s responsibility, not Sam’s.
She snorted, rolling her eyes. “Not sure how you can help me now, since, you know, you’re not Captain America. Anyway, maybe I should thank you. I’m quite comfortable in Madripore. I’ve made myself a name and believe me when I say I gain a lot more money there than I ever did working for SHIELD” she declared with a shark grin.
Bucky blinked, a bit impressed. He then focused back on their situation.
“Well, that good for us. We need you help.”
She grinned. “I know. That’s why I’m here. My flat is a few streets from there, follow me.”
ooOOoo
Bucky believed Sharon when she said she was earning quite the money. Her apartment was fucking luxurious, especially for a city like this one. Sam next to him whistled, impressed.
“Nice flat, Sharon. The outlaw live is treating you well.”
“What can I say, my clients love painting and a real Monet is worth a lot of money.”
“A real one ? No way, Sharon, you’ve been fooled…” Sam affirmed.
Bucky chuckled, perfectly aware that no, Sharon hadn’t been fooled. The both of them exchanged a quick amused smirk while she led them through her gallery, Sam quietly swearing as he checked his phone about the Monet.
“So, how did you find us ?” Sam asked her once they were in her lounge.
“I was lucky,” she shrugged. “The owner of this fast food is a friend of mine. Now, I’m guessing you’re here about the super soldiers. I can help, but we’ll talk tomorrow. I’ve got an appointment in 5 hours and I’d like to sleep before it.”
Sam seemed to want to protest but Bucky was glad at this proposal. The sun would rise in just a few hours and they both needed to sleep. Sharon’s safe place was a good surprise in a city like Madripore. She showed them the room they could stay in and made a not so subtle comment about their need for a shower.
The hot water gently washing skin was a balm for his sore muscles, but the quiet moment allowing his though to run wild was anything but. He hated this situation, he hated lying to Sam. He wasn’t exactly lying, he told himself, but he never had believed that an omission wasn’t a lie too. He sighed, frustrated. It would be easier if Sam would just take the hint and let him alone just enough time for him to find Cross Bones. But the man was too stubborn and it was as endearing as it was annoying sometime.
Learning just who was behind the Flag Smasher had been a big blow for him. Stopping these supersoldier was a priority and he’d share every little informations he had about their leader but he needed to be sure first. He needed to confirm that the mercenary really was the one who led the Flag Smasher. The entire city seemed sure of that fact but Bucky couldn’t wrap that fact around his head. He just didn’t understand why Rumlow would suddenly improvise himself a revolutionary leader.
It scared him, too. Because as much as he refused to believe it, there was the strange coincidence of HYDRA showing sign of activity once again just about the same time. Bucky hadn’t though there was any links between the Flag Smasher and HYDRA’s activity but with the name of Brock Rumlow to connect them both, he wasn’t so sure anymore. And if he revealed himself to be doing exactly what he seemed to, it would be Bucky’s responsibility. Sam would know and… His chest felt heavy at this thought. He didn’t want to imagine Sam’s disappointed face. He quickly dried himself, trying to think about anything else. They’ll find Nagel, then he'll find a way to see Rumlow without Sam and he’ll see in that moment.
“You’re finished man ?” came Sam slightly worried voice.
He opened the door, a bit guilty at the probably longer than necessary time he had spent showering.
“Sorry,” he mumbled.
He installed himself on the bed while his partner hit the shower. The mattress was a bit too soft for his taste but he was too tired to care. He realized sleeping in the same bed with Sam should have made him anxious or at least awkward but it wasn’t the case. If he was being honest, he was just glad to be so close to him after near two months without his presence.
Sam came out not too long after, just when Bucky was beginning to feel sleepy. Of course the man slept without a shirt on, he realized when he was faced with a toned chest of soft skin and abs. God, he had been cuddled into those arms. He felt his cheeks burn when he realized he was staring and turned his back to the man, embarrassed. He suddenly felt jealous of his self past during his last heat, who had received all of Sam’s comfort and physical affection without difficulty or overthinking. Sam went next to him under the cover, yawning loudly. He distracted himself with the 3 good things of his day.
We met Sharon again and she’ll help us just as we’ll help her back. I made Selby talk without torturing her.
“’Night Buck,” Sam murmured quietly after turning the light off.
“Goodnight Sam,” he whispered back.
Sam is right next to me.
The man went under in a matter of seconds. He was close to him but he wished he was closer, close enough to touch, close enough to feel the heat of his body against his own. He closed his eyes, relaxed his body. It was a moment as good as any to understand he might be in love with his partner. He wanted to worry about this and the implications but he was too tired. So what if he loved him ? Of course he did, the man was lovely, he decided as he fell asleep too.
ooOOoo
When they woke up, Sharon had already left, a short note in the kitchen declaring she would be back and to help themselves in her fridge. He joined Sam who was flipping pancakes on the pan. He peeked at the little pile already cooked, a smile on his lips. He had woken up with his head full of worry but this view was enough to lift his mood for the moment.
“Stop staring at them and just pick a plate,” Sam admonished him.
His smile widened, a nice warm feeling in his chest at the prospect of his partner making breakfast for them both. It reminded him of Sunday with his family, Steve more often than not with them.
“It’s good,” he hummed. “I could get used to it,” he added thoughtlessly.
He realized immediately how it sounded and was reminded the situation in which he was the last time Sam cooked for him. He engulfed his pancake and hoped his embarrassment wasn’t visible on his face.
“Well, that could be arranged,” Sam declared with a nonchalant air Bucky wasn’t sure was entirely true. He looked at him, surprised. “I wanted to invite you to spend a few day in Delacroix, meet Sarah and the boys. Leaving New York a bit wouldn’t hurt you,” he added.
He was left speechless a few seconds, having not anticipating the offer.
“I’m going to start to think you like cooking for me, Wilson,” he went for awkwardly, still processing the offer.
“What if I do ?” then again his partner took him by surprised as he met his eyes with a smirk.
Bucky stared. Was Sam… flirting ? Was he imagining thing ? He felt his heart speed up as Sam held his gaze, a sparkle in his pretty brown eyes. His mouth was dry as he swallowed, having a hard time looking away from him. There was a something in the air, Bucky just wasn’t sure what it was precisely. Was it an idea, a proposition from Sam ? Was it his own new found infatuation that created the tension ? He looked down at his half finished pancake, suddenly feeling stupid. He was pretty sure he was projecting and making it weird out of nowhere. Sam spoke and teased freely, he didn’t mean anything by it. Their relationship had had a pretty rocky start ; the fact they were friend was already good, he wouldn’t try to hope for something more. Plus Sam liked women, as far as he knew.
“Wouldn’t it bother your sister ?” he finally asked, bringing back his friend’s initial proposition.
“Nah man, she wants to meet you. Sarah likes receiving people.” Sam affirmed.
Bucky thought that he probably wasn’t as pleasant as most people the Wilson family was used to but he trusted Sam not to lie about it. He wouldn’t burden his sister without her agreement, he knew that. His reflexive reaction to find a reason not to accept kicked in but he found no reason not to accept. Truth was, himself wanted to meet his partner’s family and the city he cherished so much.
“I would like to go if she’s okay with it,” he declared.
Sam offered a wide smile that lightened his whole face. God but he was handsome, Bucky though.
“Nice ! We can go after we’ve finished in Madripore. Unless you had already planned something ?” he probably meant it as a jock but it still sounded honestly curious.
“Nope. I don’t have as many friends as the Falcon,” he replied good naturedly. “And with my pardon and all this therapie bullshit, leaving the country to Wakanda isn’t easy.”
“That suck,” Sam commented with a frown. “You’re still in contact with Shuri ?”
“Yeah. Still surprised about that sometime myself but… I don’t know, she’s nice. Easy to talk to.”
Sam made a noncommittal hum, probably thinking about his own impression about the princess. Bucky took the last pancake and his friend made an offended face before dramatically pouting.
“Shut up,” he grumbled with a smile.
He would feel guilty but given the fact Sam had stopped eating a few minutes ago already, he knew he was all drama for laugh.
“Do you know when Sharon comes back ?” he asked. “We need to talk with her soon.”
“I don’t know but I doubt it will be long. It’s not even morning anymore,” commented Sam.
Well shit, his partner was right. He didn’t remember the last time he had woken up this late into the day. He was anxious about the conversation to come, about what Sharon might confirms. About Rumlow. Did she knew Cross Bones ? Probably not personally but at least from reputation ? Because the woman seemed well integrated in Madripore so it was safe to assume she did.
He sighed as he looked up at his partner. He froze as he noticed his eyes glued to where Bucky’s was scratching at the fading mark hidden under the patch on his neck. He let his hand down immediately, not having even realized he was doing it and felt himself blush with shame, hoping Sam hadn’t caught his awkward move. He knew Sam was aware of the bond and his creation during his time with HYDRA. He never hid it when he was the Winter Soldier. But he never wanted to draw Sam’s attention to it and the circumstance behind it. It was absurd, he realized distantly, but the profound disgust and shame he felt every time himself saw it was decupled under Sam’s gaze.
He rose and cleaned the dishes, probably not fooling the other man but this one didn’t make any comment, bless his heart. Sam stood next to him, scrolling down his phone as he shared some information he found interesting about Monet. Bucky wasn’t particularly interested ; what he liked in a painting was the story it told in itself but he rarely find it in himself to care about the artist behind it. Still, he enjoyed Sam’s voice and his enthusiasm as he read him facts about the painter’s life. Sharon came back just as he was finishing.
“I hope you enjoyed your nap,” she commented drily but with a hint of amusement still as they sat on her comfy sofa.
“Thank you again for letting us stay here, Sharon,” Sam said.
She waved her hand. “Enough chit-chat. I can guess you’re here about the super soldiers ?”
“You know about them ?”
“Of course. I have many contacts. You have any leads ?”
“We met with Selby last night, she confirmed what we knew. Apparently a mercenary named Cross Bones aquired a new serum formula from a scientifique called Wilfred Nagel. He created his own supersoldiers, the Flag Smasher to do… well we don’t really know yet. We need to find Nagel and Cross Bones and stop them. Have you heard of them ?”
Bucky watched her carefully with a hint of apprehension.
“I’ve heard of them. Cross Bones especially, he’s well known. Less about Nagel, I didn’t think he was talented enough to create a serum.”
“Do you know where we can find them ?” Sam questioned eagerly. Bucky stood silence, anxious about her response. Was he hopping she knew or not ? Because he wanted to find Rumlow but he didn’t want Sam to know too, not yet. To his relief, she shook her head.
“Cross Bones isn’t a public person and he's independant, finding him directly would be tough. But for Nagel… I don’t know his location myself but I know someone who does.”
“That’s great, Sharon ! Then we’ll find Cross Bones via Nagel.”
Sharon observed them, thoughtful. She seemed to ponder something for a few more seconds before addressing them again: “I host a party tonight. It’s a big thing, reuniting some of the more powerful people from Madripore. One of my guest is Aurel Rokchierf. He’s probably the richest man here and though he doesn’t hold too much manpower, his wealthiness allows him to meddle into a lot of business happening inside Madripore. He’ll know where to find Nagel, be it because he financed his lab, because he paid some men to keep an eye on him or because he had a deal with the serum making. It doesn’t matter how.”
“Shit, it’s lucky for us,” Sam noted.
Sharon grimaced. “That’s not really luck. I had my own design for investing in this party and lure him to enable a meeting.”
“What do you want from him ?” Bucky asked, curious.
“Information”. She eyed them both thoughtfully. “You need to be careful, even more so than usual. Things are shifting inside Madripore. Weapon dealers are shifting clients, local mafias are changing their alliances, some are being destroyed… There’s something going on. I need to know what to adapt my business and for my own safety.”
Bucky thought back at what Selby had told them. There is a new player in town who is quickly climbing the ranks. He had noticed the differences, too. Selby’s clan, the Monkeys, had been running the show in Madripore his whole period as the Winter Soldier. HYDRA allied with them when needed, sometime sending their Asset itself, for a reason : they were the most powerful. He hadn’t lied either : there was nothing going on inside the city they weren’t part of or at least aware of. Even with the Power Brocker claiming kingship on Madripore a few years ago, Selby hadn’t lost her influence then. Yet Selby hadn’t know much more than them about the serum. It showed a clear shift in power in favor of an unknow party.
“Selby told us there was a new leader in Madripore.” Sam voiced his own though.
Sharon hummed. “Yes. There’s a cold war going on between the Power Brocker and this newcomer. It’s subtle for now but it can’t be long between there’s blood between those two. I need to know where to stand when it happens, and that’s why I need more information on this new challenger. Thus come Rokchierf.”
Sam nodded before asking : “You think it has something to do with the Flag Smasher and the serum ?”
“I don’t know. The changes in Madripore began a few months back already while the news about the serum is more recent but… it might not be a coincidence.”
He had a bad feeling about this mess, a terrible hunch he couldn’t quite explain. He felt like he had the pieces of a puzzle except the central one that prevented him to see the bigger picture. He hated it. HYDRA, Rumlow, the serum, Madripore… it was too much at once for hazard to explain it all.
“Shit. I don’t like that, Buck,” Sam groaned.
“Let’s focus on obtaining Nagel’s location for now. This Rokchierf, how do we make him spit out his location ?”
“I do have an idea about that. Rokchierf is…,” Sharon began while looking uncharacteristically unsure. “He is known for appreciating omegas.” She admitted, turning his gaze toward him. He hid his discomfort as best as he could as he felt uneasiness settle in his stomach.
“What ? What the fuck does that mean ?” growled Sam.
“It means what it means, Sam,” Sharon fired back, annoyed. “He’s a businessman so we’ll make him talk with a deal.”
“I’m your bargaining chip,” he clarified flatly.
“Yes.”
“That’s ridiculous !” Sam exclaimed. “I don’t know if you realized but we’re here incognito, Sharon, and Bucky is pretty famous as the Winter Soldier in Madripore.”
“Believe me, I wouldn’t be as confident Rokchierf will take the deal if it wasn’t for this fact.”
His throat felt tight. He knew his reputation here. In a city full of thieves and murdered, his title as a legendary assassin had been feared but admired too. He had been several time in Madripore while under HYDRA’s thumb, for assassinations of people who though they could hide inside this rat nest but also for negotiation. In those case, his presence had been for protection because as much HYDRA were powerful, they weren’t stupid enough to believe themselves untouchable in this city. But it also had been as a tool for bargain, just like Sharon was proposing now. An assassin, a soldier or an omega for rent. He felt nauseous thinking about the different use they had for him. They were careful when lending their Asset ; they had his anonymity and his functioning body to preserve after all. Paying a common whore to sweeten a deal was classic enough with a small and clearly weaker party. But there was people who could allow themselves to be exigent in their demand. That’s when Bucky usually came in.
He shuddered lightly.
“I could make him talk. We grab him and you let me interrogate him.” He declared coldly. Torture was something the Winter Soldier had done on rare occasion, though not Bucky Barnes. His therapist would be pretty disappointed to know he even considered torture as a mean to an end.
Sam grimaced but didn’t immediately opposed to this proposition. He was oddly touched, realizing that it was probably because the other proposed option seemed worst to him.
“Please, be realist. What, you want to kidnap him in front of dozens of witness and then torture him leisurely in my room ? That’s stupid and that won’t work, and you’ll have shot down your only chance to be close to the man. Because don’t believe you’ll get any better chance if you come knocking on his door.”
“Why not ? It worked with Selby,” he countered back.
She rolled her eyes. “Everybody know where to find Selby, if not getting close to her so kudo to you both I guess. She has her own interest in helping you, I can’t imagine this newcomer impinging her territory is good for her business. Plus I’d like not to make myself become the enemy number one, given the fact that I live here.”
He sighed, admitting the logic of her reasoning.
“I’m not expecting you to actually go with Rokchierf’s will,” she continued in a softer voice. “It will be just for show. I’ll present you as the Winter Soldier, recently back under control, my control. He’ll take the bait, I know he will. As soon as we obtain Nagel location, we take you out of his grip. Sam could help with that as to cover for me.”
He didn’t really have a choice, did he ? It was a good plan. He couldn’t tell what bothered him most : the fact he’ll have to act as the Winter Soldier or that he’ll have to let his status as an omega on full display. But they had a mission and he wouldn’t let his discomfort slow them down. Stopping the super soldier was more important.
“Okay. Let’s do that,” he finally agreed.
“Buck… you sure ?” Sam asked softly and he nodded back. He appreciated that, even though the answer was obvious and probably should be for his partner too, he still asked. He was a good person and Bucky knew him enough now to accept the fact that Sam cared about his feeling on this. He felt warmth at this prospect inside his grim thoughts.
“That’s settled, be ready at 9:00 pm. I’ve promised my guests a chef d’oeuvre. I was actually talking about the Monet but… the Winter Soldier is much more a chef d’oeuvre in their eyes.”
ooOOoo
Bucky didn’t know where the suit Sharon gave Sam came from but it suited him perfectly. The man had been reluctant to wear the red and black color, judging them too flashy for a formal party but apparently it was common in Madripore. Bucky had not been given any fancy costume ; his field suit reminiscing of the Winter Soldier was more appropriate for their objective.
Sam let himself fall on the bed next to him with a “ouf”, his legs sticking out. Bucky was staring at the ceiling, trying not to think about the role he will have to take in a few minutes. He turned his head toward his partner when he felt his hand touch gently his wrist.
“Buck. If at any moment it become too much, don’t just take it in silence. I won’t leave you from my sight so just… give me a signal and I’ll end it,” he swore quietly. “You’re more important than any information Rokchierf can give us.”
He wasn’t. It still was comforting to hear coming from Sam’s mouth, though. They remained silent, Sam’s hand not leaving his skin and himself not diverting his gaze. Sam’s phone buzzing from Sharon signal pulled them back to reality and Sam gave him a gentle squeeze before standing up.
They joined Sharon in her reception room full of expositions. She sized them up before nodding her approval. Sam seemed nervous, Sharon at ease. Bucky breathed out and locked down every though other than the mission, focusing on becoming the Asset’s character once again. He heard the first people arriving and Sharon turned towards him one last time. They shared a gaze and she nodded once again. Then the first guess appeared and Sharon became a smiling and experienced host.
There was indeed a lot of people, more so than Bucky would have expected despite Sharon’s assurance she was a well known reseller. She was skilled, he noticed as she addressed each one of her guest with their name, stroking their ego without given them an inch. She presented Sam as Ebadiah Jonhson, a friend and a collector of art. Then, of course, there was Bucky’s silent and still presence behind her. Men and women would notice him then his left arm and would gape with wide eyes. “Is that the Winter Soldier… ?” or a variation was asked in a whispered awe and fear. Even as Sharon moved on to greet new people, the attention remained on him and he could feel them buzzing with excitement. He ignored them and kept his cold gaze straight in front of him, his body tight and ready in rest parade, like he always did back then. Like a good soldier.
“Stand up, Soldier,” director Pierce ordered and he obeyed despite his wounds heavily bleeding. He had been hurt during his mission. A partial failure.
“Good soldier,” the man commented.
He blinked back the random memory. It was frighteningly easy to fall back on this clinical mindset and the shame of it was hard to handle. Still he didn’t let it influence his behavior and posture because he was a good soldier. The conversation around him slowly shifted to other topic than the Winter Soldier and the excitement went down a notch, even though he could still constantly feel gazes on him. Rokchierf wasn’t there ; he followed Sharon and he could witness the woman doing her business. It would have been more interesting to him if it wasn’t for the discomfort he felt playing this role once again. Still he could acknowledge her ease, confirming the skill he had already guessed. He didn’t have any gift himself for negotiation but his time with HYDRA being in contact of leader and diplomatic arm wrestling had made him sensible to the shift of power between two parties. She managed to sell two piece of arts in a few minutes so kudo to her.
Sam mostly followed her, sometime distancing himself to interact with other people as not to seem suspicious or like a lost chihuaha. The man was tense, even though he did an admirable job appearing casual. His laugh were forced and held nothing of its usual warmth, his smiled were faker than his own in front of a journalist. The guest probably didn’t notice but Bucky knew him too much not to.
Rokchierf came in at 10:00pm. He knew it was their target because of Sharon’s greeting but also because of the way he was dressed and his confidence. Form his ugly but pricy suit to his watch to his shoes, the man screamed dirty money. He was a bit younger than he had expected, closer to 50 than 60 years old. Sharon caught Bucky’s eyes for a brief moment before heading towards the man. Sam came closer but didn’t join Sharon.
“Mr. Rokchierf ! It’s a honor to have you here,” she greeted him.
“Miss Carter. I’ve only heard good things about you.” He had an nasal voice and an arrogant tone that instantly gritted on Bucky’s nerve. Then his eyes moved on Bucky and they widened.
“Dear ! Is that the Winter Solider ?”
Sharon smiled thinly. “I did promise a surprise for tonight, didn’t I ?”
The man eyes raked across his figure with no hidden admiration. He felt his muscle contract under the scrutiny but made an effort not to let any discomfort show. “How did he came into your possession ? I though him lost since HYDRA’s fall.”
“Now, I can’t disclose all my secret,” she responded lightly. “Can I offer you a drink instead ?”
They moved across the room, serving themselves champagne while Rokchierf saluted his acquaintance. Sam was also introduced to him, although the man didn’t seem much interested. They made small talk about today’s artist then the most favoring market in Madripore (apparently drugs, even more so than weapons).
“I feel like business has been more complicated since a few months.” Sharon innocently declared when they were just with Rokchierf. “Some of my clients have turned their attention elsewhere. I, like anybody else have noticed changes in the overall powershift inside Madripore. Though to be honest, I do not know if it is because of newcomers. I’ve heard rumors but it’s difficult to have a trusty information.”
Rokchierf offered her a thin smiled. “It’s not just a rumor, dear. I’ve never encountered their leader but I met some men from this new faction.”
“Well it’s interesting for sure. Though I doubt the Power Broker is going to let them steal their territory.”
He nodded lazily. “There will be a war for ownership, certainly. It have already started, I believe.”
“Are you talking about the new super soldiers ? I wondered myself if they had something to do with that.”
“Who know ?” the man shrugged. Bucky expected Sharon to then ask about Cross Bones, but surprisingly she didn’t. It was a bold move, especially since as far as they knew and the whole city seemed to know, the mercenary was behind the Flag Smasher. Their conversation continued on recent change inside Madripore and he was glad if surprised that Cross Bones had not been mentioned yet ; maybe Sharon had forgot. It was Sam who brought the subject because, sadly, he hadn’t.
“I’ve heard the leader of the Flag Smasher was Cross Bones, the mercenary ?” He then tried to obtain information on his location but Rokchierf was dismissive and Sharon didn’t help much. He had noticed before but Rokchierf was dismissive about Sam in general, almost rude and not only on this specific matter. It rubbed him the wrong way, maybe even more than his “appreciation for omegas” because he was pretty sure it had everything to do with Sam’s skin color. Sharon made another try to subtly obtain information on the Power Broker's concurrent, which failed, before trying one last less subtle time.
“How do I met them ? I’d like to have a bit more information, if it come a time when choosing a side is needed.”
“I’m just a humble businessman, I couldn’t possibly know,” he declared with false regret which he didn’t try to hide was bullshit. The corner of Sharon’s eyes tightened, the only sign of irritation in her otherwise perfectly casual posture. Bucky was worried for a moment that she would push for more information and would compromise their main objective, Sam too it seemed as he casted a worried glance toward the woman, but she didn’t insist, even though he could tell she was frustrated.
“Although, I’m sure they would be very interested in the Winter Soldier,” he announced with a glance toward him. It seemed to jolt them back to their mission.
Sharon let out a light laugh. “Oh, I bet they would. By the way, did you know the famous Winter Sodier was an omega ?” she questioned casually. And Bucky had prepared himself for it, knew it was coming but the burning gaze that the man suddenly fixed on him made his skin crawl. He is known for appreciating omegas, she had said and he wanted to scoff. Yeah, you didn’t say.
“Oh ! Oh, that’s… it’s quite fabulous,” the man settled on, almost cooing. He took a step closer, his hand raising as if to reach out before he stopped himself, his eyes raking his figure as if searching clue indicating his gender. The man bit his lips, a smirk pulling at the corner of them. He had to focus hard not to scowl and keep his eyes straight in front of him, as if there wasn’t a disgusting piece of shit right in his face. God. He could never understand how men like these could exist. Even within HYDRA, most violence and abuse against him had been born from his status as the Asset, not as an omega.
“Mmh mmh, it sure is,” Sharon hummed as if she hadn’t noticed the man’s excitement. “I don’t personally care about this characteristic of his but I understand the appeal for other people. To be honest, my associate and myself,” she motioned to Sam who was silently following the conversation, “were hoping to meet with Dr.Nagel. I’ve seen what one supersoldier can do, I’ll be interested in seeing what multiples could do.”
“Yes, yes, of course,” he answered , most of his attention still on Bucky. ”Can he be bred ?”
What did he just said ?
“I’m gonna breed you, omega,” moaned the Russian alpha upon him while vigorously moving his hips.
His friend next to him laughed, very much amused. “No you wont, the bitch is sterile !”
The alpha didn’t care as he came inside him with a growl.
There was moment of still silence. If possible, Bucky tensed even more as his blood began pounding in his ears. Then choc gave place to burning, pulsing anger. He felt his lips curl up in a silent growl. In a distant part of his brain, he realized he was lucky the man was too focused on his body to notice the change of his expression. He could kill this insolent pig, so easily. He wanted to. Can he be bred ? As if he was nothing more than a prestigious dog. He had the surge to scream at him, yell that no he couldn’t be bred. No, the russians had fucking sterilized him during the first years of his capture. Because a weapon couldn’t be pregnant, could it ? And while male omega were far less fertile than women, surely after the dozen of time he was fucked as part of the process of breaking him, one would have take. No, his captor just couldn’t take the risk, nor did they want to stop the fun they had with the captured omega. So the easy solution had been surgery, much to the dismay of HYDRA and his last handler later on.
“I… doubt it. HYDRA would have done it already. The serum isn’t in the genetic, after all.” Sharon, calm as ever finally explained.
“It’s a pity. Still, you should try.” He finally turned back to Sharon briefly. “I can help. Just allow me some time with him, then we can see if it takes.”
Sharon couldn’t hide her slightly nauseous expression but it was nothing compared to the humiliation he felt at this suggestion. The fact that he couldn’t see Sam face was a blessing because he didn’t think he could bear the disgust he would see there.
“We can make a deal,” Sharon eventually proposed. “I’ll lend you my Winter Soldier so you can.. do what you want. In exchange, you give me Dr.Nagel so I can meet with him.”
Rokchierf pulled back slightly at her suggestion, a sense of hesitation on his face. “Surely you would prefer money above Wilfred Nagel location, wouldn’t you ? I can offer you a little fortune, we can negociate.”
“I’m afraid I just need to see Dr.Nagel right now, Mr.Rokchierf. It’s the only deal I can propose. I was thinking I was pretty generous, offering you the famous Winter Soldier but I can give you any painting you desire, too.”
“Ah… Dr.Nagel is a very private man.” He tried to negotiate for anything else than Nagel, offering some money that made Bucky incredulous while he listened with a mix of anger, discomfort and shame. Sharon managed to politely decline all of them. And when she subtly threatened to pull back her offer, he finally gave in.
“Alright ! Wilfred and his benefactor could be interested in your offer, after all. I want several days with him and full control of him, though.”
“That’s a deal,” Sharon agreed.
“Fantastic !” he exclaimed. He came in close to Bucky, studying his face with wide eager eyes. He raised his hand to caress his cheek, the sudden contact sending shiver of disgust along his whole body.
“Such an handsome face !” he cooed. “Who would have though the Winter Soldier was such a pretty little thing. HYDRA must have enjoyed you very much…”
He vaguely heard Sam chock behind him but he was too engrossed in his disgust to care. A hand rested on his hip and suddenly there was no anger anymore, just shame. He felt like he couldn’t move, even if he wanted. But that was just it, wasn’t it ? He didn’t want to. Because if he really wanted to, he could. There was no brainwashing, no words to restrain his action. His heart was pounding wild like a rabbit in front of a wolf ; but he wasn’t a rabbit, the man in front of him wasn’t a wolf either. Bucky was the predator, free from his collar and his masters and yet… Here he was again letting himself be pet. A wave of shame and self-hatred so strong that he couldn’t control a flinch submerged him. Rokchierf didn’t seem to notice or to care.
Why was it letting this happening ?
“Look, the omega likes it !” a beta exclaimed, pointing at his hard member.
Was it the answer ? Did he unconsciously like it ? Dr.Raynor had said once that the body had the mean to express what it needed, wanted. That for example, he might not feel like eating but his body would feel weaker, would make his stomach ache until it had what he wanted : food. Was it the same ? Why he let it happen to him, was it because his body knew it wanted it ?
“Rokchierf, I would appreciate it if you honored your part of the deal before molesting my Soldier,” he heard Sharon declare tensely, but it was vague, as if there was cotton all around him. Then there was a thumb caressing his neck and he saw the man lips move but he didn’t understand, didn’t heard him.
“Ok, that’s enough !” came Sam’s furious voice an oh, what Sam must be thinking. Did he realized the way Bucky was ? How fucking wrong he was ? Suddenly there was something hot rolling down his cheeks. He didn’t want this.
Rokchierf rolled his eyes, turned quickly to say something before focusing back on him.
He didn’t want this.
He didn’t.
Sharon said something, Rokchierf pushed his nose into his neck before inhaling his scent.
He didn’t want this.
He snapped. He had just the time to notice the man’s confusion before his vibranium hand grabbed his neck.
He squeezed, hard.
Chapter Text
Sam knew Bucky was an omega. He also knew that creeps that liked to molest women or omega existed. So logically, he also knew that creep molesting Bucky could happen, might have happened already in his life. And yet, he had not known, not really. Witnessing Rokchierf petting him and scenting him without authorization had been a wake up call. He wasn’t stupid : the moment Sharon had explained Rokchierf’s taste, he knew an inappropriate behavior was to be expected. Bur seeing it in person and in such a disrespectful way had been shocking still.
Yet this was nothing compared to the terrible understanding that came from Rokchierf. Sam felt profoundly stupid for not having envisaged it. Bucky, an omega brainwashed to follow any order, had spent 70 years prisoners from literal nazis. So of course there had been sexual abuse, the contrary would have been sadly surprising coming from HYDRA.
Sam was aware that the man had been marked during those 70 years. Probably in the beginning, seeing as it was now close to being completely healed. A mark took during heats so the fact that HYDRA had taken advantage to one to bond an alpha with him against his consent had not escaped his notice. But he had assumed it was a one time thing, a way to make him easier to control while they managed to destroy who Bucky Barnes had once been. It was naïve. “HYDRA must have enjoyed you very much”, that’s what Rokchierf had said and he probably wasn’t far from the truth while Sam had stupidly only ever imagined the military employment of his partner.
And while his friend was being touched and discussed as if he wasn’t here, Sam had been standing powerlessly behind, a mix of horror and anger quickly turning to cold dread as the implication of the scene happening in front of him finally registered. He had been pulled out his daze when he noticed the watering eyes of his friend which had felt like a punch to his chest, a surge of hatred and despair to get Bucky somewhere safe submerging him.
He didn’t need to.
Fast as lightening, the vibranium arm reached for the man’s neck and by the time Sam registered what was happening, there was a “crack” followed by Rokchierf lifeless body falling on the ground. The stunned silence around the room reflected perfectly Sam’s own feeling, every eyes glued to Bucky who was panting and staring at the body, Sharon in front of him.
“Shit…” he croaked out.
Then two guys in suits lunged at Bucky, a knife in the hand of one of them. It seemed to snap him out of his daze and he grabbed one guy by the arm, twisting it swiftly as he blocked the knife coming from the second enemy with his left arm. He then punched the first guy right in the face and kicked the second on the wall. Sam watched out the other guests, ready to help Bucky if anyone made a move but if some were tense and ready to pounce, most observed the scene with a mix of fear and intrigue, multiples phones pulled out to record the scene. Well, shit. He could only hope it wouldn’t goes viral. Sharon, adaptative as always took a step and put a hand on Bucky’s shoulder.
“I apologize for causing a scene, but I cannot let anyone threaten my Soldier. Now if anyone had doubts about his capacity, I hope they disappeared with my little demonstration.” She declared calmly.
People seemed wary but relaxed a little bit. Sam glanced at Bucky who was now completely still. But contrary to earlier, his face and his eyes were cast downright and he could tell that his friend was slowly crumbling into himself.
“It’s a pity it had to reach such length,” sighed Sharon. “I’ll ask you to please leave now and allow me to take care of the mess.” She made them leave quickly, some guest very vocal about their displeasure. Sam refrained himself from running to Bucky who stood motionless before they were all out of sight. When he did, his friend wouldn’t meet his gaze.
“Hey, Buck, are you okay ?” he asked softly.
It was Sharon that replied. “Well, I’ve just made myself a ton of enemies.” she commented drily.
Anger surged inside Sam. “You should have stopped this freak way earlier, Sharon !”
She looked outraged. “Excuse me ? You think Rokchierf would have given me what we wanted without having a taste first ?”
He gritted his teeth at her choice of words. “We would have found another way to find these information !”
“Fuck you, Sam ! I’ve just made myself a target for any person who’s interested in the Winter Soldier or people whose Rokchierf’s death is inconvenient because you begged me for my help and Bucky couldn’t control himself !”
He growled, furious she could blame Bucky after the shitshow they just witnessed.
“You-“
“Stop, Sam, it’s okay. She’s right.” His partner confessed quietly. Then he turned to Sharon. “I’m sorry, Sharon.”
He deflated hearing his quiet and sad tone. Sharon sighed tiredly. “I’ll manage, Bucky. I understand it wasn’t easy for you. I’ll take care of the body, you…change yourself and be ready in 20 minutes. Let’s find Nagel before he hears about what happened there, he might become wary and run.”
He gently took Bucky by the elbow, leading toward the room they shared. He felt guilty for snapping at Sharon, because as much as he felt that Rokchierf should have been stopped before, he knew she didn’t deserve the blame. More than anything he felt guilty for not having done anything. They changed in silence- well Sam did, Bucky being already in gears. His thought were running wild in his head as how to talk with the man, desperate to make him feel better, to comfort him.
“Buck…Can you tell me how you feel ? I’m worried.”
He didn’t get an answer immediately. He turned around to see his friend standing still, his expression unreadable.
“I’m fine,” he eventually replied laconically, which Sam wasn’t stupid enough to buy. He wasn’t sure pressing the matter was a good idea. Talking about his trauma was something he should do with his therapist and it was nor the time nor the place for such a heavy matter of discussion. Yet he couldn’t let Bucky think what happened was anything close to normal, just like he couldn’t let him alone with his demons.
“I’m sorry you were forced in a position where you had to endure Rokchierf behavior. It’s okay not to be okay, you know ?”
Bucky let out a strangled laugh. “Well I’m used to it, am I not ?”
He felt like he had just been punched in the chest with sadness.
“Oh Buck…” he exhaled when he noticed the moisture in his eyes. He tried to turn around but Sam grabbed his wrist. “Please…” He wasn’t sure what he was pleasing for. For him not to leave ? For him to let him cuddle him, comfort him ? The man didn’t try to free himself.
“I’m sorry for killing Rokchierf,” he said guiltily. Sam couldn’t help his snort of disbelief.
“I couldn’t care less about him,” he spat with more vehemence than intended. “A few second more and I might have shoot the guy myself, Buck. Plus it all worked out, we got Nagel’s location from him.” He let his thumb draw gentle circle on his wrist during a few seconds of silence while Bucky wouldn’t meet his gaze but didn’t try to pry him off. “Do you want to come back to the US ? Talk to Dr.Raynor, maybe ? You don’t have to feel you have to complete this mission, Buck. You’ve already helped me enough.”
Bucky shook his head and Sam wasn’t surprised but it would have felt wrong not to remind him this fact.
“Ok. Do you want to talk about it ?”
The man stared at the hand touching his wrist. Sam hesitated, uncertain if the gesture of comfort was welcomed but decided to let Bucky take back his hand if he desired.
“Sam… Are you not disgusted ?”
The pain this question caused him, god. He wanted to cry for the man and shout his anger toward the men who made him ask in the first place.
“I’m not, Bucky, god. Never, there’s nothing disgusting about you !”
His friend finally met his eyes with a hard glint in his own.
“How could you not ? Do you even understand what I’m asking ? I’m not talking about Rokchierf’s blood on my hand, Sam !”
“I know what you are saying, Bucky and my answer is the same, I’m not. Rokchierf is disgusting, HYDRA is disgusting, not you.” He didn’t seem to believe him. He continued with a softer voice : “If I came to you, explaining that I’ve been raped”- Bucky flinched at the word-“would you find me disgusting ?”
“Of course not !”
“Well it’s the sa-“
“It’s not the same. Gosh, it’s not. I never tried to defend myself. I was so… so fucking compliant ! Sam, I wasn’t a victim, shit, have you seen me ? I could’ve take on any of these fucker. I didn’t, I never even fucking tried.” The more he was talking, the more distress pierced his voice and he took his hand back, rubbing them tensely. “They would tell me to kneel and I would, no question asked. They could tell me to- to do- anything, and I would !” he let out a ragged breath, squeezing his eyes shut, for a few seconds. Sam let him, letting the man his personal space. He opened his eyes and stared at the rug. He continued, his tone quiet. “Most of the time I didn’t like it, I don’t think I did. But sometime… it was okay. With- people, I liked it- I really did, just because he was gentle, even though he was also HYDRA.” He exhaled. “It’s not the same Sam.” He affirmed defeatedly.
He stared at his friend. He knew Bucky felt guilty for a lot of things out of his control, yet the heavy self hatred he could hear was hard to handle coming from a person he had come to love. He felt a sudden flash of anger and despair thinking about Steve. Where are you when he needs you so much ? He wanted Bucky to see him as he saw the man himself, with the forgiveness and love he deserved.
He stopped thinking too hard about boundaries and the only self control he exerted was to refrain himself from cuddling the man like he desperately wanted to. Instead, he fell on his knee in front of the man seated on the bed and cupped his cheeks, gently forcing him to meet his gaze.
“There’s nothing you could tell me about what happened to you during your captivity that could make me feel disgust or make me blame you. Do you hear ? They brainwashed you, Bucky, you could not fight back, you could not even think about it ; that’s what they did. Even if you could : I wouldn’t judge you if you complied with all of your brain capacity. You did what you could to survive and that’s not disgusting.” He caressed his thumb along his cheekbones “You’re just as beautiful as before and nothing they did to you or how you reacted will change that.”
There was tears begging to fall from Bucky’s eyes.
“Sam…”
He took him in his arms, squeezing him with force and hoping to share all the sincerity of his words and the love he felt for him.
“You spent years with people intent on destroying any humanity in you. They failed, I have the proof right in front of me. I don’t see the Winter Soldier when I look at you, Buck. I see an asshole, sure. I see Steve’s friend, I see my friend. I see a soldier, an omega and an old geezer, but not something disgusting.”
The omega didn’t respond but put his arm around his chest as he heard him sniff. Sam felt his head fall on his shoulder and the man let himself be petted on his back. That’s what he deserved and nothing less. He was not sure how much time they remained in this position ; enough for Bucky to regain composure and for Sam to feel pain in his knees. Bucky couldn’t meet his eyes as he cleaned himself but he must have felt his searching gaze because he eventually met his gaze with an uncharacteristically timid one and Sam suppressed a smile. He was embarrassed but not shameful, which was good.
They joined Sharon in the living room and she didn’t make any comment. He realized they had probably spent more than 20 minutes in their room and he was grateful she let them have this moment.
“So Rokchierf gave his address ?” Bucky questioned them.
“Yeah, he is in the docks. We’ll take my car, come on.”
ooOOoo
Madripore was a dirty and ugly city, Sam noticed vaguely as they traveled around the city. He felt sympathy towards the people who were born here. As much as he couldn’t endorse thief and murder, you didn’t have much choice but to follow the rules of the city to survive. He regularly checked on Bucky beside him but if the man was rather closed off, he seemed calm. His relative calm was troubled by his tense voice.
“Sharon.”
“Yeah, I noticed,” she nodded quietly.
He looked between them, intrigued.
“We’re being tailed,” Bucky informed him.
“He’s good, I’ll give him that but I’m better. We have to get rid of however this is before reaching Nagel.” Sharon indicated.
Well, shit. He wasn’t paying much attention for potential enemies, to be honest. Now that he did, he noticed the innocent looking black car following them at safe distance. He sighed, regretting, not for the first time, the absence of Redwing. But his suit and his loyal robot would have been far too flamboyant for their objective and he would have taken the risk of being robbed which was a no go.
“Turn when you can.” Sam ordered. “Bucky, you’re probably the only person they have or could recognize so you both get out the car, reassure him by showing yourselves so he feels confident enough to get out his car and try to follow you. I’ll take him by behind.”
They dropped him thirty meters before they stopped the engine and he waited in the shadow to greet their anonymous follower. The driver of the black car was cautious indeed, turning back when he noticed they had stopped and Sharon and Bucky pretended to continue by feet. For a moment Sam was worried he would just turn around and not come back but a few seconds later, Sam saw a tall man in grey and black appearing into the street. He seemed suspicious and the street was desert so he was pretty sure it was their guy. He took him down easily, though the man was stronger than he looked like.
“Fucking- let me go !” the man yelled.
“Not a chance, man. Stop- moving !” Sam had a hard time keeping him down until Bucky and Sharon came back. The blonde crushed one arm under her feet, stopping his struggles.
“Why were you following us ?” Bucky growled. The man looked at him with wide eyes.
“Soldier, you’re a bad dog,” he sneered cruelly.
“Hey you asshole, start talking or-“ Sam started but suddenly, the man started to convulse.
“What-“
“Shit-“
Bucky grabbed the man mouth and pried it open but it was too late. In a matter of second, the man was dead.
“A cyanide pill,” Bucky explained somberly.
“What the fuck ? Who does that !” he exclaimed, shocked.
“HYDRA used to do that,” he declared tensely. “The higher grade would have a cyanide pill in case of capture, to prevent any information from spilling.”
“You think this guy is HYDRA ? What are they doing in Madripore ?”
Was it a hazard ? Or HYDRA was linked with the super soldiers and the serum ? But then what about Cross Bones, what about the Flag Smasher’s speech about equality ?
“It does make more sense that a group like HYDRA would be behind the serum than a random mercenary,” Sharon commented. “They could have financed Nagel way easier.”
“No I-“ Bucky’s voice croaked and he cleared his throat. He seemed troubled, which Sam could understand but there was a sadness and disappointment in his gaze that confused him. “I think Cross Bones is really behind the serum,” he declared softly. “And I… I might know who he is.”
“Really ?”
“You know CrossBones ?” Sharon stared at his friend weirdly.
“I don’t know- I hoped…” he stared at the ground. “Maybe it’s someone from HYDRA.” He eventually declared.
Sam felt there was more to the story but he didn’t want to push him, especially so soon after Rokchierf. He imagined realizing that the person they were going after might be one of his former captor must be hard for the man. It was bad news, real bad news. HYDRA coming back together was more real than ever and apparently they already had super soldiers. They had remained hidden inside Madripore and grown their forces under the nose of every governments. They’ll have to inform Walker and hope it wasn’t too late to stop them. The only thing he wasn’t sure about was why Cross Bones had made himself known this early ? Because HYDRA motto had always been to stay hidden and grow like a weed and, if the identity of the mercenary was unknown and not linked to HYDRA, surely spreading his name like that was an useless risk ?
“How did they know about our presence in Madripore ? I mean the guests will probably be talking about the Winter Soldier especially after Rokchierf but so soon ?”
“Some people took videos.” Sharon reminded him. “Chances are, you’ve gone viral, Bucky.”
They both grimaced. More publicity was not something they needed.
Sam sighed, placing a comforting hand on Bucky’s shoulder. “We’ll figure that later. For now, let’s hurry before Nagel is made aware of this video.”
They went back on their way; Sam making sure to look out for potential enemy but nobody else tried to follow them. They reached the dock quickly and from then, they followed Sharon. The woman probably had made business here before because she knew her way. They had to go around a few armed people but didn’t have any trouble otherwise. They stopped in front of a container and Sam pulled his gun out. Better be ready, he though, but then when they opened it, it was empty. He raised an eyebrow, eying his partners who both shrugged. They eventually found out the mechanism giving access to what seemed to be the doctor’s lab, said doctor turning their back to them as they approached carefully.
“Dr.Nagel ?” he called, pointing his gun at him.
The man jumped around, surprised gaze quickly turning into a sneer.
“Who are you and what do you want ?”
“We know you created the new serum,” Sam explained firmly. “We want you to stop.”
“Ah !” then he noticed Bucky and had an ugly smile. “Winter Soldier. He knew you would come.”
Bucky frowned, irritated. “Where is your boss ?”
“Why would I tell you ?”
“Because I’ll pull out every teeth of yours if you don’t,” he answered icily. Nagel gulped.
“We heard you were initially working for the Power Broker. What changed ?” Sharon questioned.
The man snorted. “The Power Broker is nothing compared to who I’m working for. He’ll do something out of my super soldier, more than the Power Broker would have ever done.”
“Who is your boss ?” Sam asked.
“Why, ask your buddy here,” he pointed at Bucky. “He’s the HYDRA expert, is he not ?”
Well, there was no doubt left anymore.
“Give us an address,” ordered Bucky, one hand unsubtly reaching for one of his knife. Nagel grimaced.
“Ok, ok ! He’s in the old hostel at the west border of the city, The Sunny.”
“How do we know you’re telling the truth ?” Sharon questioned, doubtful.
He rolled his eyes. “Please, I’m not stupid. If there’s nobody there, you’ll just come back to me with this soldier of yours.”
“Ok, you come with us.” He took the man by an arm, hand still on his gun and they walked him toward the car. They had searched the room for any remaining serum without success and destroyed everything. They couldn’t take the risk of the formula to be diffused.
“Sharon, you mind if we keep Nagel in your house until he is arrested ? I’m gonna call Walker.” Sharon didn’t care but for a reason he couldn’t understand, she seemed very dissatisfied. Sam had to suppress a smile seeing Bucky pull a face at the mention of the new Captain America. He rang the blond who answered after a few ring.
“Wilson ?”
“Yeah, hi Walker. We’ve just arrested the creator of the new serum, Dr.Nagel, inside Madripore. We’ve got some news about HYDRA, too.”
“Madripore ? We are heading there right now,” he informed him. “HYDRA might have bought weapons there.”
He sighed. “Yeah, that’s probable. The Flag Smasher and HYDRA are more linked than we though. Listen, just inform me when you land, we’ll need your help.”
He hung up after Walker’s confirmation and decided it was a good thing Walker was heading there. If there really was a whole bunch of HYDRA member in the city, Walker’s help to arrest them all was welcomed once Sam and Bucky would have arrested their leader, Cross Bones. There was a new ringtone which sounded inside the car and for a moment Sam though it was Walker calling back but he realized it wasn’t his phone.
“It’s mine,” Sharon informed him when she noticed his curious glances and he nodded. She ignored the call.
He focused back on Bucky who was interrogating Nagel, the doctor seated between both of them at the back of the car.
“Since when you and your boss have been working together to create an army of super soldier ?”
“Since he arrived in Madripore and you all noticed nothing,” he gloated with a smirk. Bucky glared at him.
“Why did we heard about it only recently if it’s been years ?”
“What ?” he blinked. “It’s not been years-“
They were suddenly pushed to the right when Sharon slammed on the brake and turned widely with a swear.
“Get down !” Bucky yelled and he had just the time to obey that a rain of bullet rained on the car.
He took his gun out and managed to identify a dozen of men jumping out two black vans which had almost toppled them if not for Sharon quick reflexes.
“That’s Selby’s men,” Sharon groaned.
“We need to get out the car before they encircle us !” he exclaimed. Bucky didn’t lose any time : he kicked out the door and rolled out the engine, gun in hand. Sam shot at them by the window in order to cover for Bucky’s and Sharon’s exit before he took Nagel by the arm and jumped out in turn. Sharon at the front of the car and Bucky and himself at the back, they fired back. He vaguely worried when he noticed Nagel was still down but he hadn’t time right now to check on the man.
“Shit !” he swore when a bullet flew a few centimeter from his face.
He shot one man right between his eyes in retaliation. Then he noticed Bucky next to him picking up the car’s door he had smashed.
“What-“
The man rose, door in one hand as a shield, gun in another. 1, 2, 3 shots and 3 body dropped before the ominous “click” of an empty arm resonated. Not deterred, he threw the door at two men, slid down the floor to pick up a riffle and eliminated the remaining enemies.
Well. Good job Bucky. He slowly rose to his feet, checking on Sharon who seemed fine, then on the more preoccupying matter : Nagel, who still hadn’t moved. He grimaced when he noticed blood slowly seeping out from under the doctor. He found a weak pulse before turning the man on his back.
“That’s bad,” he announced tensely. A bullet had tore through his chest, probably touching a vessel.
“Sam, I hear incoming,” Bucky signaled. At least two other vans, maybe more. We need to get out of here.” He then paused, looked at him with an hesitating look.
“We’re not far from my appartement, the car will hold until we reach it.” Sharon began. “Let’s-“
“Both of you, go.” Bucky declared with a resolute expression. “I’ll go ahead, distract them. I’ll meet you later !”
“Wha- Bucky, stop !” he yelled, but the man was already running. “You stupid-“ he made to follow him but Sharon grasped his arm.
“We don’t have time, Nagel neither ! Let’s go !”
Shit, she was right, he realized with dread, the idea of letting Bucky roam alone around Madripore scaring him, especially now that people seemed aware the Winter Soldier’s presence. He clenched his fist, reigned in his desire to go after his friend, then hurried to put Nagel in the backseat. Sharon drove like a furry, but he was too focused on stopping Nagel’s bleeding to care much.
“I’m not sure he’ll survive,” he confessed. He just could do anything else to stabilize the man. Sharon had explained she had emergency’s resource, including blood within her appartement -which he didn’t comment on, thank you very much- but at this rate, he wouldn’t make it. Sharon drove in silence but he caught the frown on her face and an expression he had difficulty to read.
“Sharon, your phone is still ringing,” he commented when her ringtones resonated for a fourth time as he was trying not to worry about his friend. He knew Bucky had amazing skill and could probably easily escape a little army of goon but still, he didn’t like not having him in his sight.
“Yeah well I’m a little occupied right now,” she snarked.
They were pulling in front of her building when Nagel stopped breathing. He began chest compression and for the next minutes, he put all his pararescue training in maintaining the man alive while Sharon connected the IV to transfer the blood. It didn’t work. He eventually stopped 10 minutes later, his arms on fire. He fell back on his ass and sighed.
“Nothing to do anymore, he’s dead,” he constated uselessly. He couldn’t bring himself to care very much if he was being honest. The man hadn't been a saint, that's for sure. He followed Sharon inside, changing his pants blood’s stained before joining her in her living room.
Now, he needed to find Buck. He tried calling him but he got his voicemail.
“Fucking fuck, Bucky !” he swore under his breath, angry at the man because he perfectly knew his phone had been on before the went to Nagel. Did he not want to be found ? Or… was he in danger ? There was an uneasy feeling that it was the former. They could have fled the scene rapidly enough without meeting the incoming goons, he was pretty sure. Bucky probably knew that too and yet he had jumped at the occasion to go on a separate way. It wasn’t the first time either and Sam was frustrated because he didn’t understand why… He frowned, an idea suddenly surging. “I might know who he is.” “Maybe it’s someone from HYDRA.” That’s what he had said.
“Shit. Sharon, I think Bucky went to meet Cross Bones at the address Nagel gave us,” he realized. That was probably it, wasn’t it ? Bucky had known it was someone from HYDRA. Did he want vengeance without Sam’s interference ? Or was he scared Sam would learn something from his captivity from this mercenary ? Neither sounded believable enough because despite all that had happened to him, Bucky never was a vengeful man, and to risk fighting someone from HYDRA alone just because he was embarrassed or fearful of Sam’s reaction seemed too stupid coming from his friend.
“Your omega is stupid,” Sharon sighed.
“Yeah, don’t tell me,” he grumbled, deciding not to comment on the denomination she had used.
There was suddenly an urgent knocking on the front door. He jumped out of his chair and followed Sharon. Had he been wrong ? Had Bucky came straight here instead of The Sunny as he though he had ? Sharon opened the door.
But it wasn’t his friend.
ooOOoo
Bucky felt bad, leaving Sam like that but he wouldn’t be too long, he reasoned. He didn’t know if Rumlow was alone in there ; seeing other HYDRA’s agent with him would be confirmation enough and if there were too many, he’d go back to Sam and Sharon for reinforcement. If he was alone, he’d talk with him and if he needed to be arrested, Bucky was sure he could take him on easily. A part of him still hoped it was a misunderstanding, even if the chances were slim.
The front of the Sunny was in ruins and the outside wasn’t any better, just a few deserted warehouse in the lining of the road leading there. It seemed he was the only living being there but it didn’t mean anything. He had checked the surrounding area but nothing seemed amiss expect multiples tire mark on the ground. Either business was frequently held there, either there was a base in this place. He hadn’t found any camera outside but he still had approached using a maximum of natural covering. The roof was full of weak spot so he had easily decided it would be his entry, the back door leading to what had been a garden too obvious for his taste.
He was anxious and was trying hard to push back the agonizing though and questions that turned inside his head. It had been what- 5 years ? 10 years, if counting his time as dust- since he had last seen Rumlow in the hospital in DC, his face full of bandages. Men could change beyond recognition with 10 years, he knew. Bucky had more or less abandoned the alpha back then, deciding to leave and search for his memory and his identity instead of staying with his commander. Would he blame him ? Bucky himself had changed, too. He wasn’t the puppet HYDRA had created anymore, the only thing Rumlow had known of him. With this knowledge came the shameful question he was trying to bury deeply : would the man care about the person he was now ?
ooOOoo
It wasn’t Bucky at the door. It was a man releasing angry and anxious alpha pheromone.
“Where is he ?” he exclaimed with a growl, looking around and above the woman’s shoulder.
Sam, upon seeing the man’s face, realized he had seen him before, though for the few first seconds of stunned silence on both part as they noticed each other, he couldn’t place him. Then the scowl and the scar on the side of his face worked like a ring bell and he reached for his gun before realizing he had let it on the table, intent on reloading it.
“Son of a- He’s HYDRA, Sharon !”
He jumped at the man, grabbing him in a headlock and kneeing him in the gut. He tried to reach for the gun he could see in his pocket but the man managed to prevent his grip, throwing himself against the wall in a vain attempt to dislodge him.
“Fucking- let me go, you asshole !” he spited furiously. “Where is- Where is he you stupid-“
He punched him in the face, effectively silencing him and Sam couldn’t help the ferocious and angry grin when he witnessed his nose sputtering blood. He couldn’t remember his name but he had kicked his ass once, he could do it again. He wasn’t sure how he had survived the Insight event but right now he didn’t care, he’d make sure it sticked.
He had a sinking suspicion the alpha was looking for Bucky. HYDRA had never wanted to let their Soldier go. He felt rage enflame his chest at the idea. HYDRA would not take Buck back, not on his watch.
“Sharon,” the man addressed her, “where is Barnes ! It’s a fucking trap !”
He managed to tackle him on the floor but his opponent kicked him on his knee, which unbalanced him enough to allow him to roll under him and push him on the side with a “umph”. He got back on his feet quickly, his eyes narrowing on the man’s hand going for his gun. Oh no you don’t you little shit-
It’s Sharon who put an end to the fight, pointing his gun at the man who stared at her in disbelief.
“What the fuck are you doing ?”
Sam snorted, giving Sharon a thankful glance as he regained his breath. Why the fuck was he surprised ? They must have known each other as they both worked for SHIELD but still, he must know Sharon had been helping Cap to stop him and his nazi friends back then.
“We don’t have time for this bullshit,” he said between gritted teeth, frustration coloring his tone. “Where is Barnes ? I need to see him now !”
“Ah ! Are you serious you asshole ?” he exclaimed. “How do you even knew how to find us ?”
He growled, glancing at Sharon before glaring back at him. “It’s not important ! Aren’t you supposed to be Barnes’s friend ? I’m telling you, he’s in danger !”
“Excuse me ?” he exhaled, incredulous. “Yeah, I get that, seeing as you nazi piece of shit is here looking for him !”
“Sam, wait,” Sharon intervened. “I don’t know how he got my address or how he even knew I’m living in Madripore but we should listen to him, he might have information.”
He squeezed his fist, a nasty part of him screaming to hurt the man just as badly as HYDRA had Bucky. He contained his anger, knowing it was useless and aware that the recent discovery of just how badly HYDRA had treated their Asset was influencing his judgment.
“We need to find Barnes, now. This whole shit show, the rumor about Cross Bones and the serum ? It’s a trap for him. I’ve never created super soldier.”
“Wait, you’re CrossBones ?”
“Yes ! Who cares !” he exclaimed and Sam could see the man was genuinely agitated. “Now could you freacking tell me where he is ?”
“He’s gone after what we though was you, Rumlow,” answered quietly Sharon, to Sam’s annoyance. “Nagel gave us the address of his boss, hostel Sunny.”
Rumlow paled. “Nagel’s never worked for me,” he declared. “I know who is behind all this. We need to go, now.”
Normally, Sam would have ignored him. HYDRA scum’s word didn’t hold any value to him. But he had noted several discordance those last few days, about HYDRA, the Flag Smasher, the serum that didn’t formed a complete frame of what was happening and he had the sudden certainty that Rumlow wasn’t lying, at least not about that. He exhaled slowly, trying to diffuse the bad gut feeling he had.
“Ok. Okay, let’s go.”
Notes:
So Rumlow isn't the big bad guy ? Who would have thought... Did you see it coming ?
and if it's not him, who the hell is pulling the strings ? Answer next chapter !
Chapter 9: part 1/2
Notes:
Hello ! I'm really excited for this chapter and the next one - They were originaly one chapter but I divided them for drama 😄
Don't worry I'll post the next one tomorrow as to not let you on a cliffhanger too long !
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
1998
Alexander Pierce has just refused an award for peace and the world has praised him for his humbleness. It’s laughable. Alexander does want peace, but he’ll have to spread river of blood before reaching it so for now, this award isn’t earned. He’ll take it when HYRDA will reign uncontested on the world.
But something far more precious than a simple trophy might be reached today, a grand step in HYDRA’s plan : time and space travel.
He walks with dignity along the stern corridor of the underground laboratory, making a conscious effort not to hurry to the main masterpiece, the Tesseract. HYDRA -through SHILED- has been in its possession for two years. Two whole years of relentless work and search to understand how it works and how to make it work like they want. Finding talented people and ensuring their secrecy hasn’t been easy. He had to use the Asset on one occasion as one of his scientist leading the project had tried to sell their discovery ; a grave error he has now paid with his life. A few months ago, the researcher has been able to explain that the Tesseract is like a door and the destination is infinite. Through millions of place and, even more interestingly, upon the newer theory, through time. The months following this discovery has been dedicated at making it happen. Today is the day of the first trial on an object, the scientist having reached a consensus about the different calculus.
The security increases as he walks but he is granted access and saluted with the respect he deserves. He reaches the main room and the atmosphere is tense, more than just exhilaration for what they are about to do. Dr.Smivel, the head researcher is screaming orders as he tries franticly different manipulation on the machine they have built to exploit the Tesseract. This one is emitting a strident sound and is already working despite his implied order to wait for his presence to begin the test. The personnel is moving around, some checking cable, some reading through notes ; one young guard by the door the only unmoving thing. He observes the chaos in silence for a few seconds, dissatisfied.
“Can I have an explanation on what is going on, Dr.Smivel ?” he demands, his tone making it clear that it’s not a question. The man swirls around, his glasses and blouse dirty.
“Director Pierce ! It’s the machine, it has lit up on its own. We’ve tried to turn it down but there are interferences.” He raises an eyebrow at this information. How could there be interferences when their machine and the power of the tesseract is unique is unknown to him, probably to the scientists too given his disarray. “It’s using the power of the Tesseract like we intended but the reading are all wrong.”
There is a first small explosion on the machine and Dr.Smivel turn his attention back to it, alarmed. The next minutes are spent under his surveillance, a safe distance between the experience and himself. Steadily, the buzzing surrounding the tesseract grows, static electricity in the air. He has decided staying in this room is dangerous when suddenly, a strident sound split the air and a bright light explodes from the machine. He crouches on his knees, eyes squeezed shut in reflexes, hands on his ear to try and protect them.
And just like that, everything stops -the sound, the bright light. He opens cautiously his eyes, like everyone around him ; Dr.Smivel eventually stand up slowly, look at him hesitantly.
“I believe it’s-“
Everything explodes.
He is thrown against the wall and his cautious distance from the machine saves his life but heat is licking his face. He coughs, covers his nose and narrows his eyes as he takes in the disastrous scene, his ears ringing and his vision blurry. His scientists are all dead on the floor and he stares without understanding what happened. He indistinctly hear the guard – only survivor beside Alexander – trying to catch his attention with a shaky voice but his attention his elsewhere. He notices a tall figure standing in the middle of the chaos. Supporting himself against the wall, he raises on his feet, watching the man that has just appeared in the room as this one steps forwards between the bodies littering the ground.
He recognizes this person and Alexander will soon understand that it’s not really space or time travel they have created, though this man comes from far away.
ooOOoo
Indoor wasn’t much more crowed than the outside, except that there was signs that certain parts of the building were lived in. Notably, Bucky noticed a camera in working order ; it was obviously intended to be hidden but he spotted it pretty easily. Nagel hadn’t lied. He felt his chest clench at the prospect of seeing Rumlow very soon. Now he’ll need not to forget that the mercenary was probably an enemy and dangerous. Still, he believed he wouldn’t try to harm him or kill him on sight. He probably would at least allow contact… he hoped. He stepped in view of the camera. Finding Rumlow by himself could take hours – the building was big – so Rumlow finding him would be faster.
He passed by multiple corridor with ugly red and gold rug, gardens and what must have been a kitchen. He was forming a mental map in his mind as he went, a trick he had developed as the Winter Soldier and for once he was grateful this skill came so easily to him because it was a labyrinth. It might have been easier in the past when the hotel was in working order but with part of the building half collapsed and condemned doors, it was far more complicated to locate himself. As he moved through the long corridors, he observed that the traces of lives weren’t hidden anymore. In a room that might have been a luxurious lounge before, he noticed fridges, heaters and clock in working order. In another, a vast table with computers and bin full of trash. Still, he crossed path with nobody, even though he went by a camera a few minutes ago. He was starting to wonder if Rumlow and his goons hadn’t left the hotel just before he arrived when things changed.
He passed a metal door leading to a second entrance hall, which closed itself behind him with a sounding “clang”. What grabbed his attention was the discreet “bzz” that followed, indicating the electrical closure of it. He clenched his teeth. Yes, someone was following his steps. He tried to open it again, just to be sure and it indeed remained closed. He probably could have smashed through it if necessary but decided against it. He hadn’t been attacked yet, it might be Rumlow’s way to show him the way. Or, his mind snidely commented, it was to restrict his movement to a more restricted area and subdue him more easily.
He ignored it.
ooOOoo
The ride was tense. Sam was at the back, keeping an eye on Rumlow. Taking him with them to join with Bucky didn’t feel right with him but in the end, it was better than letting the man roam free. Plus, he knew he and Sharon could subdue him if necessary. He had tried calling Bucky again, without success. Sam was worried for his friend and Rumlow hadn’t given them any more information about who was behind this : he had contented himself to glare at him suspiciously when he asked. The only thing he gave away was that he had learnt of Bucky’s presence because of the multiple video taken during Sharon’s party. He gave up, deciding to keep his energy if Bucky indeed needed to be rescued. Bucky had gone at The Sunny by foot and giving the speed at which Sharon was driving, he wouldn’t be alone in it very long. Maybe 20 or 30 minutes at most ; but this lapse of time was more than necessary for something bad to happen.
He glanced at the mercenary -Cross fucking Bones, what even was this name ?- who was fidgeting beside him. The man mostly ignored him, sometime glaring at him when Sam stared too long, sometime scowling at Sharon with a more annoyed than hateful frown. He wondered if they had been closer than he suspected back when they were working for SHIELD ; they seemed to know each other and if he could perceive annoyance and a mild dislike, he didn’t feel much more anger and hate, which could have been excepted, especially from Sharon. Other than him behaving like the asshole he was, Sam noticed he was stressed. Worried, even, though this one was harder to spot. It was mind-blowing for him, that it seemed the man was worried for Bucky. He didn’t know if it was a façade or if there something else on his mind. Logically in Sam’s mind, it was the latter because he couldn’t fathom how someone who had been part of the organization that exploited, tortured and brainwashed the omega could care even an ounce about his well being now.
“We’re here,” Sharon announced. She pulled out in front of the old building, bold letter indicating “TH SUN Y”. They jumped out the car and Sam prayed that Bucky was all right.
ooOOoo
He was aware he was guided to a certain point inside the hotel. He hoped this point was Rumlow but he still methodically and regularly checked for a way out in form of window, accessible roof and weaker wall, in case of trouble. He located himself in the est side of the building and if he needed, there was trees a little further below where he could take cover and flee. It was when he passed yet another door closing itself behind him that he heard shuffling steps behind it. A normal human being wouldn’t have caught it but he did. He placed his hand on his gun, tense. Would the alpha really…? He waited still for a moment but nothing happened. No, he realized. He wasn’t being attacked yet : the goal wasn’t to kill him. He was embarrassed how much relief this confirmation brought him.
However, it made him wonder if Rumlow had been aware of the fact he was coming here. The ground had been ready when he had arrived, the mechanism of the door and the soldiers behind him too. It was plausible too : maybe the man who had followed them earlier had guessed they were heading toward Nagel and had warned his boss : The Sunny had been just the next easy step to deduce. It might have been prepared from the moment he had been spotted on the camera but the timing was tight.
He continued his way anyway : he ignored the locked door and followed the path that was traced pretty obviously for him.
He reached a new room, the lack of window making it a bit darker than the other. He stepped in without more though than the other, the next door 5 meters before him. There was a camera in the ceiling, the second one he spotted, this one being obvious with a red light glowing in the somber atmosphere. He had missed the others but he hadn’t been looking for them : he already knew he was being filmed. There was the now familiar “bzz” of the door locking behind him.
Less normal was the second noise in front of him. He had been locked inside this room, he realized with confusion. Why ? There wasn’t anything or anyone. He warily pulled his gun out when hearing another bunch of goons in front of him. He had no time to do anything else before he heard the leaking sound of gaze invading the room. He whirled around and saw the two left corner spreading white gaze in an alarming speed.
He stared in disbelief, a mix of astonishment, anger and disappointment twirling inside him. He glared at the camera, deciding to focus on his anger for now. He didn’t think Rumlow would fucking gaze him, especially since they had pretty much acknowledged each other presence. It was pretty stupid too, because the man should know that a normal room couldn’t hold a supersoldier.
He punched the wall with his left arm and-
It bent, it didn’t break.
The sudden icy feeling of fear was terrible when he realized it wasn’t a normal room. These wall had been made specially to detain a super soldier, to detain him. It wasn’t vibranium but it was still very solid – too solid, he noted as he glanced at the room filling with gaze. Breaking through this wall would take him too much time. Adrenalin surged inside his vein and tried he punched with all his strength, a small gasp of fear the last breath he took as he noticed the gentle tiredness that seeped inside his bones. Every impact caused the wall to bend a little bit more- it wasn’t enough.
No, no, no. How could he do that to him ? Since when had this room been ready for him ? How had he known that Bucky would come for him that much ahead of time for him to plan this gazing chamber ? He let his panic fuel his strength, the gaze prickling his eyes as he was slowly suffocating, struggling with himself not to breath.
ooOOoo
Ten steps after they had passed by the front garden’s gate and they were jumped by five men. They fortunately had expected a welcome of this type, otherwise they would truly have been taken by surprise given the fact that they were good. Luckily for them, they were better -even Rumlow, which bothered him to admit- and they held their own. Two had immediately focused on him, same with the other man. It was amusing to him that they had judged Sharon, the only woman, the weakest when she had had removed his attacker with two clean shot after a handsomely executed back kick.
The man at his back managed to hold him in a chokehold while his partner pointed his gun straight at him. A boost of adrenalin startled him into action ; leaning on the man behind him, he lifted his body and kicked the one in front. His weight destabilized the man holding him and he took advantage to fire at him. He was quick enough to avoid a fatal hit but he fell with a pained scream as the bullet tore through his leg. The other came in close and they fought hand to hand, their body too close to have a shot. His opponent managed a few good punch, almost taking his eye away when he surprised him by taking a knife out but Sam eventually had the upper hand, knocking him out to fall next to his buddy, unconscious.
A quick look assured him of his allies well being.
“I’ve compared the original map of the hotel and its exterior now,” informed Rumlow. “There is a recent building that have been installed on the Est side, that’s our best bet.”
“Let’s go by the outside, we’ll be faster.”
As they were running, Sam came to an abrupt stop when he saw a group of armed stationary soldiers by the window. He signaled at the man and woman behind him to stop. They seemed to be waiting for something and he had a surge of hope when he wondered if Bucky might be behind the door they were staying in front of. It might be an ambush for him, which meant he was heading this way. He shared a look with Sharon as they glued themselves to the wall not to be detected, his intent to communicate his plan to take them by surprise when he heard something that chilled him.
“Loss of conscious by gaze estimated in 30 seconds.”
He felt himself pale, horrified. Bucky was being gaze right this instant. He threw caution to the wind.
“Fucking- put them down !” he exclaimed as he fired at them.
Sharon and Rumlow followed and he showed no mercy, rage pulling his every moves. Surprise was on their side and the restricted corridor the men were made it easy to kill them all. He jumped at the door, trying to slam it open with brut force.
“Bucky ! Buck, you hear me ?” he yelled, tapping at the door. “We’re coming for you, bud !”
He growled in frustration when the door didn’t budge.
“Step back !” Rumlow screamed.
He scowled at him, angry at the proposition when he noticed the grenade in his hand. He just had time to jump behind before it exploded. He clenched his eyes tight as he was propelled against the floor, his nose knocking harshly against the rug. He rose with difficulty, his ears ringing uncomfortably but he ignored it as he hurriedly barged into the dark room. Rumlow was already inside and he felt strong relief went he noticed the form of Bucky pressed against the wall, on his knees but still conscious.
“Buck ! God, you’re okay ?” he exclaimed, falling on his knee next to him.
The omega slowly looked up at him, his eyes staying open with difficulty.
“Sam ?” he mumbled.
“Yeah, it’s me. You’re okay buddy, we’re gonna take you out of here.”
The gaze was slowly being dissipated by the hole the explosion had formed on the exterior wall but his eyes still burned.
“You can stand up ?” he asked gently, placing his arm upon his shoulder to support him.
“Yeah…” he managed to raise on his feet but he suddenly froze. “Rumlow…?” he said with a quiet voice.
“Hey Soldier,” the alpha greeted with something close to tenderness and this fact plus the way he addressed him enraged him.
“You don’t talk to him !” he snapped.
The man growled. “That’s-“
“We need to go before other people show up,” interrupted Sharon. “Hurry !”
“Wait Sam, we should destroy this base while we’re here. They’ll change location and we wont be able to find them again,” Bucky proposed. “And why are you with- with Rumlow ? Aren’t we supposed to arrest him ?”
“Listen Barnes, it’s not me.” Intervened Rumlow quickly. “The Flag Smasher ? It was never me. It’s him, this fucking asshole…” he gritted between his teeth, a hatred in the word he spat that deranged Sam. “The Captain. I though he was dead but he’s not.”
“What ?” Bucky croaked weakly, his eyes wide. Sam watched him carefully, noticing with surprise then unease the fear he could see spreading in his eyes. He rarely witnessed any fear in Bucky. Didn’t remember if it happened before, to be honest so to see it now at the mention of “Captain”, it was dreadful. “That’s impossible…”
“Who are you talking about ? Bucky, you know who tried to gaze you ?” he asked.
Bucky was weakened but he was rapidly regained composure. He stared at him, his mouth opening then closing. He didn’t answer. Sharon pressed them and they started to follow her, Sam’s mind full of thousand of questions he decided would wait later. He felt a tension and unease from unknown origin rise. But the next step he took was interrupted by a voice.
“Now, don’t leave already !”
A very familiar voice.
He stopped. Bucky beside him froze. He slowly turned around, convincing himself he was hearing thing. There was a tall man emerging from the hole in the wall, gaze lightly clouding his feature yet he would recognize him everywhere.
“…Steve ?” he heard himself say, shocked.
Notes:
Big reveal !! Pleaaase please please tell me what you think about it, I really want your feeback 🥺
Chapter 10: part 2/2
Chapter Text
“…Steve ?” he heard himself say, shocked.
Because it was Steve Roger right in front of him. The same built figure, blond hair, blue eyes. He smiled… a wicked smile. His cold gaze lazily passed over them before settling on Bucky and his smile widened.
“Hello Soldier,” he greeted sweetly in a tone that vaguely reminded him of Rokchierf’s cooing one. “I missed you, omega.”
He felt a heavy weight settle inside him. Something was so, so wrong and he couldn’t even say what.
He glanced at his friend, unsure of how to react. He was pale as death, his eyes fixated on the blond man. Slowly but surely, he felt his pulse accelerate. Something is wrong. He heard Rumlow snarl, a whiff of aggressive pheromone reaching his painful nose. There was a twitch of annoyance and disklike on Steve’s face who glanced at the man with a scoff of disdain before looking back at the other man. The silence that followed was tense, Sharon observing quietly the scene, Rumlow full of aggressivity and anger, Bucky with a now unreadable expression and Sam himself with confusion and dread. Bucky finally broke the silent like everybody seemed to wait for.
“That’s not Steve, Sam,” he whispered quietly.
The man in question let out an amused huff. “Who would I be if not Steve Roger ?”
Bucky diverted his eyes.
“What are you doing here ?” Sam questioned hesitantly. The first question he should have ask was how are you here, given the fact the man was supposed to be dead.
“I’m here to take my omega back,” the man affirmed with a quiet confidence.
Bucky took a step back, as if burnt and Sam knew who he was talking about, even though it didn’t make any sense. Bucky was right. It wasn’t Steve Roger. Because his friend had never had this cruel glint in his eyes, nor this wicked pull of his lips. And more than that, the Steve Rogers he knew never had looked at Bucky the way this stranger was right now. They had strongly loved each other and this love had always been present in Steve’s gaze but it'd been a platonic, brotherly love tainted with affection, respect and fond exasperation. He found nothing of these now. Malice, desire, lust and satisfaction was there instead and it was absolutely wrong on Steve’s face. “I’m also here to kill you,” he added off handedly in his direction.
At these words, he finally noticed something crucial about this man. His costume, which resembled Steve’s Captain America, held a significative difference. Instead of the mainly blue of Steve’s, his was red and black with a dreadful logo on his chest : a skull with 6 tentacles. The shield held the same similarities and logo. Behind him had quietly advanced a few armed people, and he distantly recognized two of them : Benjamin Christen and Elise Possiny, ex HYDRA’s member who had evaded a few months prior. Fury boiled inside him at this stranger who dared tarnish Steve’s legacy.
“Who are you ?” he questioned harshly.
The blond shrugged. “Steve Rogers would be correct but I prefer Captain Hydra.” Then he glanced at the soldiers behind him with a small gesture and Sam didn’t wait anymore. Attack was the best defense. He shot at the Captain who quickly blocked with the shield and Sam ran at him.
“Rumlow, you protect Bucky !” he yelled. It was hard to entrust a beloved friend at such scum but he didn’t have any choice : Sharon had managed to disappear during the short lapse of time they were speaking.
The blond came at his encounter with a feral grin and he saw the other HYDRA’ agents move toward Bucky and Rumlow but he didn’t have time to worry for them right now. The Captain didn’t pull his punch. For having trained with Steve once upon a time, Sam quickly realized with dread that his strength was enhanced too. He stored this information for later and gave his all to avoid the many punch which were given with full force : he was not sure he’ll be able to get up after being hit by that. The strength was the only thing in common with Steve : this stranger used more his feet and the shield as a weapon than Steve did. Countering every attack and attacking back was getting harder and harder and Sam realized he wouldn’t be able to have the upper hand. The only advantage he possessed was the gun in his hand.
“Not-“ the blond exhaled, narrowly blocking Sam’s knee, “so bad-“ he almost successfully punched his face in retaliation, “for a human being.”
Sam took a step back hurriedly when the blond turned on himself in a quick movement, arm holding the shield stretched out to gut him. He avoided the shield but lost balance enough that he couldn’t avoid the next kick, propelling brutally him on the floor, effectively taking his breath away. He gasped, a sharp pain in his chest indicating of at least one broken rib.
“I don’t hate you, Falcon. Your wings are a nice trick.” The Captain approached lazily. “But keeping you alive simply isn’t possible for-“ Someone fired and the man swirled around, his shield blocking in extremis the bullet that would have got through his head a millisecond later. Sam turned his head to see Bucky aiming his gun in their direction despite the woman fighting with him.
The HYDRA’s Captain scowled. “Sto-“
Sam aimed and fired his own weapon in one smooth motion. It hit his abdomen and the blond grunted in pain before adjusting his shield in a defensive posture. He sneered at him with a dark look on his face giving him the chill. The next thing he knew, the man was charging at him like a bull. He managed to raise his arm to protect himself, lowered himself to avoid the shield and deflected a punch with his hand but the man was just too rapid : he couldn’t avoid the shield that slammed into the side of his face. His head exploded with pain and he fell, the world fading to black for a second. His vision came to the shield once again approaching his neck at full speed. Survival instinct made him roll on his side, preventing his neck to be cut clean but a boot suddenly crushed his left wrist, preventing him from rolling away and he screamed in pain.
“Sam !” he heard the horrified cry of Bucky.
He tried to aim his gun with a gasp of pain at the movement, his vision a blur but he was roughly kicked in his side, sending his bruised body rolling away.
ooOOoo
“Sam !” he yelled at the dreadful sight of his friend being beaten with such violence.
A sharp pain at his side brought his attention back on his own fight with Elise. She had took advantage of his distraction to stab him on the side of his chest and he grunted in pain as she smiled gleefully. She had ran straight at him and he couldn’t say he was much surprised. Despite his hazy memories of HYDRA, he remembered clearly the hatred she had held for the Asset and the vicious treatment she had reserved him. Every torment, insult and wound she could get away with, she had inflicted to him with glee. He could even remember 1 or 2 missions she had genuinely tried to have him killed, even though it had always been subtle because Elise was many thing but she wasn’t stupid and killing HYDRA’s most precious weapon would have been her own death warrant. He could now guess she had been driven by petty jealousy over the Captain and this fact made him hate her even more.
“You’re a disgrace of an omega,” agent Possigny spits as she slaps the Asset.
His fight with her was frustrating and he was anxious for another whole reason. He just wanted to run and help, knowing that despite Sam’s amazing capacity, he didn’t stand a chance against the beast he was fighting. He regretted not having engaged his enemy before Sam did because despite the horror another fight against Captain HYDRA provided him, the idea of losing Sam was worse. But he was stuck with this witch of a woman. She normally didn’t stand much chance against him ; while she could beat most people -including alphas despite her small omega’s stature- she was more proficient when it came to spy and infiltration game, and it had been one more reason for her to hate him. But Bucky felt weak following the gaze he had inhaled and she had people supporting her at distance.
They were good, every one of them and it was worrying. HYDRA had held talented people, of course they did ; they would have never proliferated as much if not. But in proportion of the many goons they had held, they were few and most members were average -speaking of personal skill or they difficulty to work as a team, which wasn’t surprising knowing that a lot of people composing HYDRA’s rank came from troubled background or had been rejected by the army. Their opponent this day were neither : they held their own and more dangerously, they were efficient as a team. They shot at him at any possible occasion and they relentlessness made him unable to kill Elise. He had managed to steal one of Elise’s knife and threw it in one’s forehead but the second man was still there. This tactic, associated with his worry for Sam and Rumlow behind made it harder than it should have been.
The mercenary was engaged in a fight at full speed against Christen in a beautiful display of skill on both side. His memory of Christen were far more neutral than the one including Elise ; as far as he was concerned the man had never mistreated him more than necessary and if he hated him on principle for his belonging to HYDRA, it was a way more tuned and tamed feeling comparing to his colleagues. Rumlow and him had been the same grade and as far as Bucky knew, they had been a match on term of fighting talent : it seemed it was still the same today. Then again the situation was unbalanced : three men had attacked Rumlow and it was clear their goal was to kill him. His former commander had reacted the only way possible in this situation : he had cleared the distance between his assailant to avoid a shot to the head and had turned the fight into one full of movement to avoid being an easy target. It had worked : he was still alive but one against 3 was too much. He was heavily bleeding from his left tight from a wound knife Bucky hadn’t witness and one man had managed to shoot his non dominant shoulder. Bucky had managed to snatch the one responsible for that in a wave of fury and had snapped his neck, collecting in return a hard kick from Elise. Fortunately, Rumlow had hurt the third man too and his movement were now slow and his blow weak, buying him a bit more time.
He was now attacking Elise in a frenzy, the rage that had fueled him replaced by fear in front of the precocious situation both his companions were in. The woman deflected yet another swipe of his knife and once again was forced to take a step back when her remaining ally fired. He growled with a mix of hatred and anguish, turning his head once again toward Sam. He saw with icy dread that his friend hadn’t got back on his feet. He paled, horrified at the view of the Captain standing above him suddenly raising his shield.
He’s going to kill Sam, he realized and he stopped thinking about anything else than his instinct. He ran with everything a supersoldier had to offer, ignoring the bite of bullets tearing through both his arms and the knife that lodged itself on his lower back -non fatal wound, they want you alive his mind provided distantly.
Roger noticing his approach stalled him just enough time for him to tackle him before he could hurt Sam more. They hit the ground with brute force and when he saw the man wearing his best friend’s face smirking up at him, he snapped. Hatred, anger, disgust and fear exploded in him and he plummeted the man’s face with all his force, teeth bared. The man below him managed to raise his shield for protection with a grunt of pain and he seized his arm, squeezing the bullet wound. He winced as pain shot through his arm and the Captain flipped him on his side. The blond raised to his feet with difficulty, his face full of blood which allowed Bucky to get back on his feet too.
He took a few steps back to guard Sam’s limp body behind his own, glancing at Elise and his other previous opponent who had followed him then back at Roger who was looking at him with a disgusting kind of glee. He snarled at them, legs flexed and ready to defend the beta, his chest tight with worry. God, he needed to protect Sam, he’d give his life without hesitating for that but he had the terrible impression it wouldn’t change anything. He tried to think, tried to find a way that would allow them to flee but he couldn’t find any solution. He looked at Rumlow and he felt his throat tighten with emotion upon the man paining to remain on his feet, his leg drenched in too much blood. He shouldn’t even be conscious, he though with despair, a sudden urge to cry at the realization that his former commander would die before they could explain themselves, reconcile.
Roger smirked once again, took a step- stopped. Frown, raised his head.
Bucky hesitated, turned his head eventually. With all the chaos happening around him, his senses hadn’t picked on the motor’s noise but indeed, there stood a American quinjet that gently landed a few meters of them. For a moment he was baffled, confused at who it could be -and scared that it was another load of HYDRA’s goon but he nearly wept in relief when he saw Walker and his friend Lemar getting out of the engine, in full gear and ready to fight. Torres followed quickly, wearing what must have been Sam’s Falcon suit. Never in his life Bucky would have though seeing these men would bring him so much relief.
“Sam !” Torres, upon noticing the state of their friend, flew at him but abruptly stopped at his side when he noticed Roger who took a menacing step toward them, which Bucky responded by taking one in his turn with a growl.
“Captain America, sir !” the young man exclaimed, a mix of confusion and reverence. “…Were you really on the moon ?”
The man narrowed his eyes at him, any trace of amusement disappeared from his eyes as he watched the two other newcomer carefully approaching the scene while maintaining distance. Walker’s eyes swept the scene, taking in the HYDRA member with a frown.
“Steve Rogers… ? What is happening here ? Are you investigating the super soldier too ?” he asked, his tone meant to be authoritative but ending with more confusion. “The world believes you dead.”
The man in question licked his lips, a lazy quality in the way he analyzed his new opponent.
“Does it now…?” He turned his gaze toward Bucky before glancing back at Walker. “I am here for my omega but you showing up here simplify things too,” he commented.
“Wha-“
“He’s HYDRA, Walker !” Bucky screamed at him, unwilling to let the Captain play with the ghost of his friend anymore.
To say the way the man eyed him was dubious was an euphemism. He grimaced, annoyed at once again being doubted.
“For fuck sake, just look at the logo on his gear !”
The Captain snorted, amused by his intervention. But his word worked and he saw Walker and BattleStar’s eyes widen when they realized Bucky wasn’t spilling bullshit.
“Shit-!”
Bucky’s muscle tensed, ready to jump back into a fight despite tiredness slowly but surely seeping through his body when a shot was fired, loud in the relative silence that had followed the pause in their fight. It grazed Rogers’s cheek, the reflexes of the super soldier saving his life.
“Bucky, take them with you and flee !” Sharon yelled at him as she fired precise shot after shot at the alpha. He didn’t let the surprise he felt about seeing her back let him lose any time. He whirled to Torres.
“You fly Sam away, he’s hurt,” he ordered and the man nodded firmly. He turned his attention to Rumlow, who was half conscious on his feet, a hand on his bleeding wound, his eyes half opened. He ran toward him, intent on saving the man that had once meant so much to the Soldier, firing at Christen to prevent him from finishing his job with his ex colleague. He heard multiple shot behind him and he deduced that Walker and Lamar were holding Elise and the remaining goons back. He kicked Christen in the chest, sending him away and picked Rumlow on his shoulder without any finesse – he didn’t have time for this. The alpha grunted in pain at his rough handling but he ignored him and ran with all the energy he had left, every one of his wounds flaring alive. A straight bullet flew close to his ear and he closed his eyes, accelerated.
He made it into the quinjet which was ready to take flight, engine rumbling below his now unsteady feet and he didn’t know who was piloting it but he silently approved his quick thinking. He put Rumlow back on his feet much more gently, the man leaning heavily against the metallic wall. He needed urgent care. He gazed at Sam who was slowly regaining consciousness and he was tore between going at his friend’s side and taking care of his former commander. He eventually decided to help Rumlow, Torres already taking care of Sam and the alpha’s state more worrying. He searched with his eyes for an aid kit, unwilling to let Rumlow alone when he noticed the engine rumbling up notch. He made a step to look back outside, surprised and maybe even a little bit worried because Walker and BattleStar still weren’t back in the jet when both men jumped inside the closing door of the jet. They stumbled inside, breathing heavily and Bucky realized with horror and mortification that Sharon wasn’t with them. He knew it was too late : the jet was already ascending in the sky, the door closed. Terrible guilt invaded him ; he knew she was here because of him in the first place and now, Bucky was abandoning her. He wasn’t close to her -didn’t particularly liked her even- but she had only ever helped them and Bucky couldn’t lie to himself : if scarifying her meant to save Sam and Rumlow, he would do it again and the shame he felt upon this fact was a burning one.
He couldn’t examine the lost of the woman more time as he was brought back by Walker’s exclamation.
“What the fuck is this man doing here !” he was looking at Rumlow and Bucky realized with a start that of course the man would know the mercenary was a former member of HYRA : he had read every damn files.
“He’s not-“
Walker pulled out his gun and Bucky felt his eyes widen in dread then anger.
“Put your gun down !” he placed himself in front of Rumlow, growling at Walker as the alpha behind tried to make him move.
“Excuse me- Move Bucky, he’s a threat !” Walker yelled.
Bucky tensed, ready to fight when he noticed Walker’s grip tightening on the shield and Lemar cautiously approaching him, one hand raised as if to appease him but the other ready to take his arm out. They were projected on the floor as a side of the jet exploded.
“One of the motor his hit !” someone yelled and Bucky greeted his teeth. It shouldn’t surprise him : Steve had managed multiple time to take an engine this size down just by himself, Captain Hydra logically could too. They were going to crash if they didn’t do anything.
It was Torres who took the lead. “Jack, open the door ! I’ll support the motor with the Falcon’s suit !”
Bucky focused back on Walker who was trying to get back on his feet, turning his eyes once again toward Rumlow with a decided expression and Bucky prayed Torres could handle the task because he was the only one they had right now. He needed to get back on his feet, protect Rumlow and convince Walker to let him walk away but he felt cold and slow, his hand taking support on the wall as he scrambled on his knee. Walker clumsily grabbed his gun, seemingly abandoning the idea of getting back to his feet as the engine was still too unstable. Rumlow had noticed too and he made a crawling move for the gun, but he was too slow and it seemed to scare Walker who fired widely once.
Rumlow’s torso fell back on the floor with a gasp of pain.
“No !” Bucky screamed, horrified. He half jumped, half let himself fall upon Walker with a savage growl, furiousness and fear the only thing fueling his body. They grasped at each other, exchanging the best blow they could in their position and he vaguely heard Sam’s voice pleading him to stop. He didn’t, he tried to punch the blond in the face but he was pulled back by his neck by Lamar. He grabbed at his arm, trying to make him let go and yelped in pain when one of Walker’s knee dug in the knife wound on his chest while the man was trying to sit back. He managed to dislodge Lamar by biting into his arm. But the last thing he saw when he turned back to Walker was the man’s shield flying right to him.
Everything went dark, his exhausted body not even trying fighting for consciousness.
Notes:
Hope you enjoyed it !
Sorry Sharon...
I started this story because of drawings picturing Winter Soldier and Captain Hydra fighting each other and damn, did the Captain creepy smile gave me idea !
Rumlow was a funny decoy : he's not the big bad, he might even be an ally ! (I don't know, he's an asshole but I like story about him and Bucky where he IS an asshole, just not to Bucky because he kinda has a crush.)For next chapters : recovering and the past !
Chapter Text
2000
He’s healthy for a man his age. He leads HYDRA, he’s part of the Nation Security Council and his doctor still applause his lifestyle. Yet these past years might have been the more tiresome of this decade, he thinks as he reads through yet another report mentioning the self proclaimed Captain HYDRA. The irony of his identity is still funny to Alexander. He rubs his forehead, allowing himself this sign of physical exhaustion as he is alone in his office. The supersoldier has destroyed the base in Iran that Alexander has sent him for negotiation. He would have preferred to send the young Possigny for a mission of this type but sadly, Iran wouldn’t consider hearing a woman so Rogers had been his second choice. It’s once again insubordination ; he has been very clear in his instruction to leave if an agreement wasn’t reached because if not today, he knew they would eventually cave. The Captain hasn’t followed this simple order and Alexander cannot be sure if it’s provocation or an obvious disagreement in his method that has motivated him most.
He has been vocal on multiple occasion about his dislike on Alexander’s usually more tactical than physical approach. The Captain is intelligent ; he is playing a fine game between insubordination and loyalty that proves it but he’s not from the same world. In his original world, HYDRA never had to hide itself, thus using a show of strength rather than a discreet executed plan seems much more natural and efficient for the man. Steve Rogers could be a fantastic asset but he is incontrollable and sometime Alexander wonder if he should seriously consider killing him. He always reach the same conclusion though : he has still his uses and despite a certain lack of loyalty for Alexander himself, the supersoldier is irrefutably devoted to the cause. Furthermore, such action would be risky. Risky for their Asset, that is, because the only being potentially able to defeat Captain HYDRA would be their Winter Soldier.
This one is being prepared this moment for a mission in Japan : execution of a mafia gang that will conclude their alliance with a politic man, who they’ll assure themselves later will be named president.
A glance at his clock informs him that he must join the small team gathered for this task. They are ready when he meets them, a sight he appreciates even though he wouldn’t accept anything else. In front stand Everett and of course, the Asset. Black gears, goggles and mask, he’s quite the sight as always and the satisfaction he feels at witnessing the submissive cast of his eyes has yet to fade, especially since the arrival of the rebelious Captain HYDRA. The japaneses doubt HYDRA will be able to exterminate the mafia members, even more so because the condition is not to implicate an obvious foreign power. They expect a small army and that would be too visible ; but they don’t know about their Asset.
“Extraction will be in four days,” he finishes his briefing, eying Everett who nods. This time constraint is important to respect because the Captain will be back after those four days and Alexander does not want him to meet their Asset. In this universe, Barnes and Roger’s friendship was legendary and he do not want to risk anything if it was the same in the Captain’s original universe. Furthermore, the soldier is his trump card if the supersoldier decides one day to betray them.
This mission is important in term of gain and strength required but it’s also a test for Everett as the Asset’s handler. He bonded with the soldier two years ago but it’s the first mission of this scale since then. He’s not too worried : Everett did correct under the precedent Asset’s handler when he was formed for this task and if the man isn’t a brilliant soldier, this fault is largely compensated by the Asset’s formidable capacity. Sometime, Alexandre wishes he was an alpha so he could bite the omega and command this fascinating weapon by a more direct mean, but he acknowledge the fact that in his position as a leader, he can’t follow the Soldier on the field. Plus, his status as a beta satisfies him, the enslavement of omegas and alphas by pheromones and instinct a disgusting thought in his mind.
He dismisses the team who head toward the military truck, Rumlow and Christen following their leader. Alexander has approved on their presence for this mission after studying their files. They are both competent and it seems they work well together, which is an important aspect within a small team constituted of alphas only -the Asset doesn’t count given the fact he’s not really a human being. Rumlow is a born fighter but hot headed while Christen is an impressive tactician and mediator, though too cautious at time. In a way, it’s also a test for them to see if in the future, one of them could be the Asset’s next alphas. Everett has still years before him but it’s a decision that demand time and reflection, as well as formation later on. The choices are restraint considering that he needs an alpha that is competent, that is unmated, loyal without an ounce of a doubt and know how to work with the Asset. For now, both are competent and unmated, that is sure and he knows they have worked with the Asset before.
He'll have to keep an eye on them.
ooOOoo
He was first aware of a repetitive bip and it was when he had a vague feeling of annoyance for this unknown sound that he realized that his eyes were closed and that he didn’t remember closing them. Then it all came back and he opened his eyes, wide awake. He startled in a seated position, assessing widely his entourage and he felt a surge of adrenalin when he noticed his hands were cuffed to the hospital bed he was currently in.
“Wha-“
“Bucky ! You’re awake,” it was Sam who bursted inside his room and who was watching him with obvious relief. The man was in a hospital goon and the sight amused him as much as it reminded him of his worry.
“Sam, you’re okay ? Where-“ Then he tried to stand up and was reminded once again he was cuffed. “Why the fuck am I chained to this bed ?” he growled.
His friend made a complicated expression before he sighed. “Walker wanted to arrest you. I’ve managed to talk to him and I explained the situation but… Bucky, you attacked him and Lemar for- for a HYDRA agent.”
God, Rumlow. He was bleeding to death and had been shot once again when he had lost consciousness. “How is he ? Rumlow, is he okay ?”
Sam’s expression turned bitter and upset. “…He’s alive. It was a close call but he made it, for now.”
He felt himself sink in his bed with relief, as if a heavy weight in his chest had just been lift. Sam stared at him and Bucky could see he had a millions things to say. He diverted his gaze with shame, aware of what the man must been thinking and what he had revealed concerning the mercenary.
“How are you ? For a moment, I thought…” he grimaced, remembering who exactly had hurt Sam and the reality came crashing down. Captain HYDRA, a man he believed dead for more than a decade was back.
Oh god, what would he do ? He couldn’t face him again, never again. He had been so close of losing Sam, too and it was unimaginable that he could lose him just as he realized he wanted something with the beta. But that was what will happen in a way or another, because that’s what Rogers had said, that he wanted his omega back and he didn’t want but he wouldn’t have a choice because he never had-
“Buck ! Breath, man, you’re okay, I swear,” Sam’s voice pierced through the panic he hadn’t realized had took place in his body, a warm hand on his shoulder that he focused on to calm his respiration. “That’s it, you’re okay,” he repeated gently.
Without thinking, he placed his own hand upon Sam’s as he sighed. They remained like that for a few seconds more before Bucky noticed what he had done and tried to take his hand back, his cheek burning with embarrassment. His friend didn’t let him and only squeezed in response. He turned his head away, delighted yet awkward.
“I’m fine.” Sam finally responded when he was calm. “My wrist is broken and I’ve busted two cost but that’s it,” and indeed Bucky had seen his left forearm in a cast. “You were far more worrying, Buck.”
“How long was I out ?”
“30 hours or so. We’ve got a lot to talk about but first, you need to see the doctor. Nope, it’s non-negotiable,” he added when he opened his mouth to complain.
The man left to search for the doc and Bucky was left with his own though. His mind turned once again against his consent toward Rogers and he tried to maintain the calm Sam’s presence had brought but it was difficult. He didn’t want to give the power to torment him at this monster when he wasn’t even here but he progressed enough in his therapy to understand it was response to trauma that his brain couldn’t just ignore with good will. He executed the breathing exercise Dr.Raynor had showed him until Sam and the doctor reappeared. He had been under surgery to repair the damage of the knife and extract the two bullets in each of his arms. He had received several blood transfusion too, his blood level worryingly low when he had been admitted. At last, she gave instruction to remove the suture thread he had received on his forehead which he could guess bitterly was a gift from fucking Walker.
The moment she left, Bucky turned his attention to Sam. “Now, am I going to be sent in prison or is somebody going to fuckin free me ?”
The man bit his lips. “I can’t, Buck. You’re under Walker authority for the time being- I know, you don’t like it but that’s the best we could do for now. I’m not going to let you go in prison but right now what you need to do is to play nice.”
“Seriously ? The fake Captain America ?” he exclaimed, outraged. “You realize I could snap those cuff if I wanted to ?”
“Well I hope you’ll refrain yourself,” he bit in response. “Walker must have been warned that you were awake so-“
Indeed, the door opened and the man in question entered the room like he owned it. He scowled.
“Glad to see you’re awake, Bucky” the man announced. He scowled harder, which made the man roll his eyes.
“Untie me.”
“We’re going to talk first,” the blond declared seriously. “Sam, could you leav-“
“Sam stays here.” He growled, as much to annoy the man than because his presence reassured him.
“Okay, he can stay- you can stay.” His friend hesitated but eventually shrugged before leaning against the wall beside him. “So, Sam has explained the situation to me and part of why a former HYDRA member was with you. I say part of because there’s still some things that I don’t understand – like why he would even try to help you in the first place ? and why you were so adamant to defend him ? Because I’m not gonna lie, it looks very much like you still have ties with HYDRA despite your amends stipulating clearly you were to never enter in contact of their agents or signal immediately if you were contacted.”
“I haven’t have any contact with HYDRA for years !” he exclaimed, furious he was being doubted on this point. “Rumlow has left HYDRA years ago after the Insight project and I didn’t see him since that day ! Where is he now ? I need to talk with him.”
The blond huffed. “Please, as if. He’s in prison, that’s where he is and where he should have been years ago.”
“What ? You can’t arrest him, the only reason he was there was because he was trying to help me !”
“Yeah, and why is that ? Was he trying to help an ally ?” he sneered.
He lurched forward, the only thing keeping the cuff intact the pain that had shot through his arms at the sudden movement. “Don’t fucking dare say thing you don’t-“
“Ok, that’s enough !” Sam exclaimed, putting himself between them. “Bucky calm down, you’re hurting yourself. Walker, come with me for a second, I need to talk with you.”
They glared at each other before Walker followed Sam out, letting him fume with anger. Shit, who did he thinks he was to treat Bucky like a traitor ? He insulted the man in his mind in the most colorful terms he could imagine. He felt terrible, the prospect of Rumlow being sent to prison after years of minding his own business because of him drowning him in guilt. When he had realized that the man wasn’t the enemy and was even there to help them… He had been so glad, so happy because it meant that the mercenary didn’t hate him. Now he felt an extreme urge to talk to him ; about Captain HYDRA, about how things had been going for him, about their shared past…
He sighed, reality crashing down. Rumlow had been a terrorist for years ; of course the government would arrest him. He had yelled at Walker -and would continue- but he knew he couldn’t negotiate for the man’s freedom, nor he probably should either. It just- it seemed hypocrite, him relatively free when he had committed hundred of murders. The anger that had boiled a few minutes ago had settled down by the time both men came back, tiredness replacing it.
“I’m freeing you, Bucky,” Walker declared neutrally. “But if you try to contact him, be aware that you’ll be arrested.”
He raised an eyebrow. He honestly didn’t expect it to be so simple, especially since the government -in the form of Ross especially- had wanted to lock him down for years. Just what exactly Sam had said ? “And the government is okay with that ?” he asked dubiously.
“The government isn’t aware of this situation. I didn’t inform them, you can thank Sam for that,” he added in front of his incredulous expression. He had the vague impression he should thanks the man but he bit his tongue, deciding he would die before doing so.
“Now, you must talk about this HYDRA business, especially about the… the Captain.”
“Sorry Walker but for now, I think you should let him rest a bit.” Sam intervened and Bucky felt grateful. “He’s been awake for less than 2 hours and I’m not so fresh myself.”
“Oh, come on it wont be long-"
"No. Later."
The man rolled his eyes but didn't insist.
"I’ll come back tomorrow. Take care.”
He sighed, less tense without Walker overing in his room. He looked up at Sam and addressed him a small smile. Bucky quickly lost it when he tried to convince him that he was good to go home and Sam protested. He reluctantly compromised to wait at least 24 hours before going home, just to make sure everything was alright, when Sam explained that was the time he would stay inside the hospital too. There was a lot Bucky wanted to talk with Sam but at the same time, he dreaded having a serious conversation because he knew Sam would ask about Captain HYDRA. But Sam insisted he rest for now and that they’ll discuss later and despite his protest and affirmation he was fine, the truth was that he fell asleep 20 minutes after his friend had left.
Without surprise, his time at the hospital was boring. He tried to be patient with the nurses and the doctor because he understood they were just doing their job and were patient with him but it was still difficult for him to let strangers poke at him and the constant if tone down anxiousness since meeting again with the Captain made him irritable. He met with Sam and between two clinical examen, Walker came back to debrief with them. He explained they had received a signal indicating the Sunny hotel and that’s how they had managed to arrive on the scene so quickly. Jack and Torres had proposed their help upon hearing Walker and Lemar were going to Madripore because of HYDRA’s business, aware of Sam and Bucky’s investigation there.
Concerning Torres, he had visited before during the day, full of gift and get well card for his mentor but also for Bucky, which had surprisingly touched him. He had anxiously explained he had brought Sam’s wings for the man in case of a fight against HYDRA but had decided to put them on when receiving the location signal, scared he wouldn’t be in a state to do so. It was a good call obviously but the kid had obviously been anguished about Sam’s reaction, though this one had reacted positively, just like Bucky knew he would. Concerning the signal’s origin, both Bucky and Sam agreed it surely had been the reason of Sharon’s disappearance for several minutes. This realization confronted them once again with the harsh truth that the woman was still Madripore -if she was even alive. Bucky didn’t regret his choice but he regretted Sam’s sadness and guilt over it : it wasn’t his fault.
Then of course came the question about Captain HYDRA, at which Walker and Sam both stared at him in response. He gulped, hesitated for a few seconds because he knew his answer might anger both men but-
“Rumlow would have a lot more information than I do,” he affirmed, grimacing at Sam’s sigh and Walker eye’s roll. “Come on, my brain was scrambled at the time, I don’t remember every details !”
They stared at him, their response quite clear. He glared back defiantly but he eventually sighed. He knew it was coming, he had mentally prepared for it but it still left his throat dry when he calmly explained what he knew.
“Captain HYDRA is not Steve, that’s the first thing I want to be clear in your head.” He swallowed. “I don’t know the exact year he arrived but it was in the late 90’s. I never found any files about it and Pierce never divulged any information about it so what I know is from what I put together and heard during years as the Winter Soldier, okay ?” They nodded, Sam’s patient sign contrasting to Walker’s impatient one. He kept his gaze on his friend, finding it easier to talk when he did. “He’s from an alternative dimension, one where he never became Captain America but Captain HYDRA instead. In the past, I though I never had understood and that an alternative universe just couldn’t exist but after Thanos… Yeah. He operated under Pierce’s orders for years, although reluctantly. He used to talk a lot about his own universe where HYDRA had taken control upon the world and although he admitted Pierce was a skilled leader, the fact HYDRA remained hidden in our world was in his eyes a flaw Pierce could never correct.”
“Surprising a megalomanic man like this Rogers didn’t kill Pierce to take his place, honestly,” Walker commented.
“Yeah…” he said quietly, although he perfectly knew how Pierce had kept the man in check when insubordination after a few years in their universe had really started to be a threat. He saw Sam’s curious tilt of the head, the man having caught on the unsaid but he didn’t make any comment on these particuliar though. Instead, he said with a shrug: "He likes power, but I think his goal isn't to rule the world or whatever on his own : he has his ideal - shitty one - and won't stop at anything to create it, be the leader if he deems it necessary, but I'm not sure he makes it a priority. He probably judged Pierce good enough at his job while himself was still discovering this new world."
“How come not a word about Captain America coming back to live never leaked ?” Sam asked, frowning.
He shrugged. “I think Pierce was scared he wouldn’t be able to play the role of Captain America. Despite their physical similitude, their behavior are nothing alike ; and although I believe Captain HYDRA would have enjoyed being a public figure, by the time he gathered enough knowledge about this universe to hope pass for Captain America if meeting other people, Pierce had already managed to have him enough under his thumb to be able to order him to stay under radar. Plus, I had to eliminate one or two target who had witnessed Captain America back in the flesh.”
“You and Rumlow seemed to believe he was dead, why is that ?”
It seemed more and more like an interrogation but pushed through his annoyance and discomfort.
“It’s… In 2012, when the Asgardian Loki tried to invade earth, he appeared in a SHIELD and NASA’s base. Rogers was there because Pierce had sent him after hearing about the Tesseract being unstable and he had for mission to bring it back to HYDRA if needed, anonymously if possible but with authorization to use his Captain America’s face and authority in last intention, since Steve from our universe was already back at the time. Anyway, Loki killed him when he tried to take the Tesseract back – at least that’s what Rumlow told me as he was there too.”
Walker rolled his eyes. “He obviously lied.”
Bucky snarled. “I know he didn’t think he was lying !”
He remembered this day, the shear giddiness in his commander’s voice at the time and the hopeful feeling inside him he had been unable to name at the time. He had just been put out of cryo and the man had used the excuse of debrief above the scientific pay grade to have some time alone with him.
“Soldier. Soldier, sweetheart, he’s dead.” The man explained fervently, firmly cupping his cheeks to grab his wavering attention, the cryo making it hard to focus. What was he talking about ? It was the commander, that much he could remember, a list of information cascading inside his brain the moment he recognized him. The commander was a good commander, he was kind to the asset even if it was not the pejorative of the asset to think that and he was a good alpha -though he didn’t know where this information came from, especially since he instinctively knew he wasn’t his alpha. His alpha was a bad one, a hateful superior and traitorous being - he couldnt’ think that but he did and he shouldn’t because he could be punished -should be because thinking like that was treason and he shouldn’t even think-
“Look at me, Soldier.” He did. “There’s no more Captain HYDRA – bastard is dead.” He stared. “Fucking dead !” he exclaimed with a chuckle, a lightness and carefree quality the commander rarely expressed.
Oh. The Captain was dead, that was what he was explaining. He should doubt the commander because the Captain was strong, he couldn’t disappear so easily after all the pain he caused- no stop he couldn’t think like that. But he did believe the commander because he was a good commander who didn’t lie or tried to manipulate the Soldier and because there was something he could feel was different in his neck, in his mind -the link the Captain used to control him more efficiently.
He met his eyes– once again, he shouldn’t be but he did, he did because he knew the commander wouldn’t punish him for that- and the man stared in return in silence. His eyes felt hot though he didn’t know why.
“Once the mark fade, I’ll be your new alpha. Nobody else, I swear,” the man explained quietly. The Soldier trusted him, he wasn’t lying and he wanted it – he shouldn’t want- he wanted it ; the commander will be a good alpha. He wasn’t sure if the commander's or his own gravity pulled him but he suddenly was in the commander’s arms while this one was rubbing his scent against him. It was a pleasant smell.
“He might have lied to you, Buck,” Sam commented softly. “ It would have been easy to at the time, with the way HYDRA treated you.”
He glared at his friend, even though he couldn’t mutter the heat of the one addressed to Walker. “Sam, he hated Rogers as much as I did. He wasn’t trying to lie. But that’s not what’s important here, okay ? What I don’t understand is why he waited so much time before making a move if he was alive this whole time ?”
Sam hummed thoughtfully. “He disappeared in 2012, reappeared a few months ago… Imagining he was blipped, it’s 6 years spent without any sign of life, that’s a lot.”
“He might have been hurt by this Loki ?” Walker suggested at which Bucky shook his head.
“Not with the serum. Either he heals completely in a matter of a few weeks at most, either he is too hurt to heal at all – resulting in death or this,” he wiggled his vibranium fingers.
They pondered this in silence before Sam shrugged. “Mistery once again, what’s new ?” he sighed. “Anyway what we have is HYRA resurfacing once again with Captain HYDRA leading them this time – he’s probably the one who freed the convicted members like Possigny and Christen – and with a home base in Madripore.”
“Yeah, he’s probably the new player Selby and Sharon were trembling about and the one leading the Flag smasher.” Bucky added. And he used CrossBones’s name to lure me there, he though bitterly. “But the Flag Smasher goal and HYDRA’s seems very different.”
“I think the Flag Smasher were formed before HYDRA came back ; Rogers probably would have chosen to give the serum to more trusted member otherwise. They probably made a deal together, though.” Sam noted.
“We have a face and a location to our enemies, that’s good. You both take some time to heal, Lemar and me will handle it for now.” Walker declared.
Bucky scowled. He perfectly knew by the time Walker reached Madripore, Rogers would be long gone. Having Captain HYDRA’s face for their enemy wasn’t a good thing, far from it. Didn’t he realized just how dangerous and powerful this Steve Rogers was ? Of course not, he though bitterly, how could he ? He hadn’t witnessed the cruelty and devastating strength he wielded, the lack of compassion and the sadistic pleasure he had to dominate. Walker left them shortly after, addressing them a polite wish for them both to recover.
They were discharged after 24 hours, just like promised. Sam proposed him to come with him at Delacroix, meet his family and the proposition made him love the man even more. He refused because he had to see Dr.Raynor and because part of him was anxious at this idea. He knew that Sam had still a lot of question and he didn’t pressure him for now, which Bucky could only be grateful for.
He didn’t want to talk, which his therapist didn’t seem to understand. The days following his session were terrible. He felt like when he was still half Winter Soldier, half Bucky Barnes, constantly on guard and wary of everyone. His though were turning obsessively around Captain HYDRA, about what would happen if he found him again, about what the man could do to the world. Then he would think about Rumlow who was in prison and Bucky’s heart ached with guilt and fear, too. Because in turning his back to HYDRA, the alpha had made himself a target for vengeance and his prison was full of ex agents and he worried one would try to hurt his old commander. He sometime imagined evasion plan, some delusional but some realistic enough. There was two he seriously considered executing, seated stiffly on his coach. But in the end, he never acted. He fetl guilty for that too, for not helping the man who had but for thinking about doing it too, because he knew it would hurt Sam, both his feeling and politicly speaking.
He felt useless and tired. He hesitated to go see Kitten but he renounced, stressed over nothing. Same with Shuri, who regularly messaged him and he couldn’t bring himself to answer her. Then of course there was Sam, who he ignored for 2 days before the man texted him he was worried. Guilt had followed as he remembered he had promised Sam he would show him he could be a friend for him. He succeeded to answer this text and the other with simple I’m fine and thumbs.
Raynor was exasperated with his behavior. He was being an asshole, he realized, but when she asked about what had happened in Madripore, he felt like he had to defend himself and it was his way of doing so. He eventually told her he wasn’t sleeping great those last few days as an explanation for his behavior -which she didn’t buy. It wasn’t a lie, though. His nights were plagued with nightmare so he tried not to sleep at all. It was despairing because he had honestly though he was doing better a few days ago before Madripore but apparently not. He decided he was hopeless. He fell asleep this night and didn’t bother doing Raynor’s exercises because he doubted there was 3 positives things for his days anymore.
The Asset was in the middle of the arena, waiting. It usually wasn’t an arena but a training mat but when the Asset was there, it was never for training. His blood was pumping in his ears and an emotion he shouldn’t be able to feel dread, fear, despair, anger was building up inside his chest. It was the same that was always there when the Asset was summoned to the Arena since the Captain had brought him back. He stood still, ignored the almost invisible tremors of his hands because he was a good soldier. The agents around him suddenly cheered and roared, announcing the Captain’s entrance who walked leisurely to meet him at the center, a smile the Soldier always though was wrong on his face. He planted himself in front of the Soldier -too close but it wasn’t the Soldier prerogative to judge that. He felt his lazy eyes tracing his face, himself staring dutyly at the man’s broad chest. When the crowd quieted down, the Captain made his proposition.
“Same deal as usual, Soldier. You win, you go back to cryo. You lose, I take you.”
He didn’t answer because there wasn’t any question to do so. Alpha and handler Everett at the side grunted his uninterested approval to the Soldier -he was the one, with General Pierce, the Soldier listened to. And so the fight began under the crowd’s cheer. He ignored the tiredness of his body, the hunger in his stomach, the pain in his leg from the precedent mission -it didn’t matter. They exchanged blow after blow, the Asset’s every move guided by a intense feeling he never had outside of those fight -but those fight, he needed to win, he needs to win, win win win, even more than the missions despite the fact that he is to never fail a mission. He was less himself more himself than at any other moment than when battling the Captain. He gave his all, all a weapon like him had to give to kill an enemy -he shouldn’t think of the Captain who is a superior as an enemy but he does- but if sometime it was enough, this time it wasn’t.
He was pinned on his stomach onto the floor, body exhausted and unable anymore to dislodge the heavy mass onto his back, the agents screaming in delight. His eyes felt too warm -are they malfunctioning ?- and the chest too tight. The soldier had lost. There was hot breaths on his neck, the heavy body panting against him.
“I take you, Soldier.”
He knew, that was the deal. He had lost, he was to let the winner take the prize and it was his submission. It was his own fault too, because the Captain had allowed him to fight back, had offered him a chance to avoid it but he still lost. The scent of blood, musk and burning oil invaded his nose. The Captain lunged at him, bit his neck.
He woke up, dread and scream locked inside his body. His heart was bumping too loudly, his muscles too tense, his memories too vivid, his chest too painful, his body too cold, his skin too sweaty and his person -too dirty. Too fucking dirty. He jumped on his feet, opened the shower, ignored the cold water. He scrubbed himself until his skin was red, cotton filling his ears and it was when blood pierced his skin under his nails that he heard the whine. He stopped, listened, panted. Whined again pitifully because there was nobody else but him there. He let himself fall on his ass and sniffed, clenching his teeth together to stop the next sound. Tears fell instead and after a few seconds of fighting against them, he finally gave up and let himself cry.
He stopped when his eyes became dry and he slowly rose to his feet when he noticed how cold he was. He dried himself, his movement slow. He lowered his eyes to ignore the mirror on his wall and went back to his sofa, sat down. Did nothing but stared at the wall, maybe for hours. It was Sam’s text who got his out of his torpor. Don’t forget to feed yourself, even cyborg need to eat !
He stared, remembered that Sam was in his life. He grabbed his phone, didn’t let himself think too much about it and called him. He answered quickly.
“Buck ?”
He stared at the phone.
"You're okay buddy ?"
“...No. I’m not good, Sam. I… I don’t feel good.”
A silence.
“Do you want to go to Delacroix ?”
He nodded, cleared his throat. “Yeah, okay.”
Notes:
More information about Captain HYDRA, yeay !
Any idea where he was those 6 last years (withtout counting the blip) ? (just curious if you caught the clues aha)Next chapter will be about healing ! He deserves it, poor guy.
Chapter 12
Notes:
Warning for blood and violence and for implied rape.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
2005
Steve is not impressed with this universe so far. This world believes HYDRA extinct and they let it believes it, that’s what baffles him. Where he comes from, the world trembles at their power – at his power. He has led them into victory to conquer the world into an area of peace and order but in this world ? Steve Rogers is Captain America and has spent his life trying to hold back HYDRA without even succeeding. It’s shameful and he has decided years ago he himself is nothing like this weak man. He establishes himself as Captain HYDRA in this world too inside the organisation and it only takes two or three years. He mostly follows order for now but he’s not a simple pawn to manipulate and he let it known. He has gleaned information and power inside this HYDRA too and he might decide one day to use it.
There comes a day when Steve is pleaded to come back at the base to meet the director. The way the agent contacting him stutter makes him almost ignore the request, disgusted at such weakness, but boredom makes him cave. He enters Pierce’s office twenty hours later, enjoying the twitch of annoyance in the man’s face at his unannounced presence. Pierce is a clever man, a decent leader. That’s why Steve decided not to kill him in the first place while Steve was too new to this world, but he can change his decision any moment and they both know that ; he likes to subtly remind him of that fact.
“What can I do to help the director ?” he asks with a smirk.
The older man keep his calm composure, leisurely straightening on his chair.
“HYDRA’s got a mission for you, Captain. It’s primordial that you succeed.”
He raises an eyebrow, vaguely curious but also dismissive. This HYDRA is weak and Steve cannot imagine what oh so great mission it can hope to accomplish in this state. The director observes him in silence for a moment, thoughtful. He glares at him coldly, not one to be made awaited. “I wonder, Captain, are you familiar with the name James Barnes ?”
He narrows his eyes. “No, I’m not.”
Pierce nods, seeming oddly satisfied but doesn't add any more comment. Steve doesn’t care for this unknown person, but he cares for his time. The man is starting to get on his nerves. He must senses that because he doesn’t waste any more time.
“We need you to retrieve our weapon. He escaped our supervision two weeks ago. We’ve lost his track twice already and two of our squad has been eliminated . We have his location once again. You subdue him and bring him back to us.”
“You loose control of your weapon and your soldiers aren’t able to bring it back. I find this HYDRA disappointing,” he announces.
“This weapon is enhanced with a serum similar as yours,” he explains patiently. “We trained him well, that’s why bringing him back is troubling. We need a soldier as strong as him, explaining your presence here.”
He hums. In his universe, HYDRA never had such weapon outside of himself - though he do not consider himself a mere weapon. He was the only super soldier. He finds this difference mildly curious but in the end, he decides he doesn’t care very much.
“I’ll bring your stray back, director. Give me his location.”
Hopefully, their weapon will be good enough to ease his boredom, though he doubts it. The man gives him the information he needs ; the team that will bring him close enough to the target, the tranquilizers -cute of him to think he’ll need them-, the target’s identity. He is the dismissed, not before being stopped one last time as he is opening the door.
“Captain. A word of advice : you shouldn’t underestimate our Asset.”
He snorts and leave the room.
ooOOoo
Sam watched anxiously the passengers getting out, with no sign of Bucky. He had texted him his flight’s arrival but maybe he had changed his mind about coming in Delacroix ? had Sam been too insistent ? He didn’t think he had : he had let the man his space for a few days after leaving the hospital, deciding what Bucky needed right now was more therapy than Sam’s overbearing presence. Thing was, after the terrible revelation in Madripore, he wasn’t sure he was able to maintain a suitable distance -physical and emotional alike. The impulse to comfort his friend probably wasn’t a wrong one but the urge to take him into his arm, kiss him and pet him wouldn’t be welcomed ; and that was without counting the words of love and devotion that were on the tip of his lip every time he saw his terrified expression.
Bucky’s message had been distressing because for the man to admit he wasn’t fine ? It was either Bucky was making progress with his therapist, either it was bad -or both. It wasn’t surprising because Bucky hadn’t explained much about Captain HYDRA –and Sam had held his tongue for now because more than information, he wanted Bucky to feel safe enough before talking about this- but with this Rogers’s toxicity and his not concealed interest for the omega, their past couldn’t be anything but painful.
Shit. This combined with the confessed past of sexual assault, it summoned terrible image he didn’t want.
Disheveled hair caught his eyes and he sagged in relief when he indeed recognized his friend. His worry came back when he noticed his tiredness despite his otherwise blank expression. He approached, searching his friend’s eyes without success. It made his heart clench, seeing him so evasive and submissive when he knew just how much of an asshole and annoying man he could otherwise be.
“Hey Buck,” he greeted softly.
“Hi Sam.” He answered quietly, still avoiding his gaze as he closed the distance. Sam didn’t try to fight his impulse : he hugged the man, hoping to convey his affection and pride over Bucky’s communication -because god did he know it wasn’t easy for the man. He kept his embrace light, ready to pull back at any sign of discomfort but expect for a second where he tensed, Bucky fell onto his chest. They remained like that just a few seconds before parting away.
“Come on, let’s get home,” he declared as he grabbed Bucky’s bag and ignored his protest at doing so.
The ride was mostly filled by Sam giving the last news about his family, though Bucky’s rare reaction and comments assured him the man was listening. It distracted Sam too, his friend presence. The last week, he had obsessed over HYDRA’s return and their Captain. Seeing Steve – his face, at least- had been a shock. His doubts over the shield, the things he hadn’t had time to discuss with his friend, it had all come back at the front of his mind. He had spent hours and hours about what if- what if he had kept the shield ? if he had used it ? if Steve never left ? There was also his burning need to act, to search for HYRDA and arrest them all while but with his broken bones, he was unable to and Sam had learned years ago that he needed to let his body heal before engaging himself into a mission of this caliber. Still it was hard to do nothing but working on intel.
It was another thing why he doubted he could ever replace Captain America : he was a simple human being who a simple injury could take month to heal. He had took down the cast on his wirst two days ago and his doctor had said it was progressing very well but still, it was too long for a figure like Captain America. Then there was Bucky ; obviously he worried and he had tensely spent his time waiting for his friend at the airport thinking of the best way to approach the subject of Captain HYDRA and his friend’s relation and traumatic past. Normally he would consider it was Raynor’s job to broach the subject and Sam’s was to offer a listening ear and he would never consider to force the omega to talk about it but now with this situation, Sam felt it was necessary more than recommended that Bucky explained his and Rogers’s link.
Sam didn’t have to ask if Bucky still wanted to implicate himself with the Flag Smasher and HYDRA, he already knew he would never back down. So if they were going to do this, Sam needed to understand Rogers’s motivation and goal better, he needed to be ready if anything happened. This mission was just too important to fail because of lack of intel. So yeah, he’ll have to have a heart to heart with his friend. Sam stopped the car in front of Sarah’s house and smiled at his friend.
“We’re here. The kids are still at school but Sarah is here, she’s happy to finally meet you and don’t worry, she’s gonna loves you.”
Bucky met his gaze, a soft glow in his blue eyes when a sun’s ray hit them just right. “Thank you, Sam,” he said gently and yeah, that was another of Sam’s problem. He was past the point of wondering if he might have a crush on Bucky Barnes. What he felt was too soft, too sincere and too lasting to classify as a crush ; for the first time since a dozen of years, Sam was in love. Friendship had sinuously slipped into love, too quietly to prevent or to feel threatened. It just feel good, if he was being honest, to discover for a second time the wonder of loving someone in a romantic way. He just wasn’t certain of Bucky’s view on this matter, nor did he know if it was something he should bring.
Sam entered the house, Bucky on his heel.
“Sarah, we’re home !”
His sister came to greet them -well, she snobed him but she did greet Bucky.
“Hi, Bucky it is ?”
“Yes, that’s me,” he answered somehow awkwardly and damn, Sam shouldn’t find it so much cute but he did.
“I’m Sarah, though you probably guessed it,” she winked at him and -Sam clenched his teeth, annoyed when he noticed Bucky’s faint blush. “I didn’t have time to prepare a guest room, is the couch okay for you to sleep ?”
“Yes, of course ! I don’t want to bother, I could also check if there are some hotel-“
“Man, don’t be stupid –“
“You’re not gonna sleep in a hotel room-“ the sibling reacted together and Bucky snorted, amused.
“Yeah, okay. You’re really sibling, huh ?”
“Sadly yes… But you’re a gentleman, Bucky, don’t poke at a woman’s flaw,” Sarah snarked and Bucky laughed – a good honest one, delighted.
“Damn, Sam, and I though you were the snarky one !”
“Oh my god, I regret ever introducing you two,” he groaned as both their face were grinning at him.
Sarah returned to cook and Bucky proposed to help. His sister tried to refuse, claiming he was a guest but his friend had none of that so that’s how they spent the rest of the afternoon, Sarah softly instructing Bucky and Sam watching them while searching information for a loan for the family’s boat. He had never seen Bucky take to someone as quickly as he had with Sarah. He couldn’t find an ounce of discomfort in the way he moved or spoke with her and he seemed genuinely eager to learn too. Sam suspected it had something to do with his sister gender -and her easy going nature too of course. Omegas were rare and he realized he had never witnessed Bucky interact that long with one. It must be soothing for him to be in presence of one when all around him there was always beta and alpha.
He tried not to feel jealous over this display, aware it was petty and useless ; plus he was genuinely happy that his friend was comfortable around Sarah. But it was hard to control, especially when Bucky turned on the light flirt at which Sarah responded in kind. It was all teasing and for fun, he knew them both enough to be sure of that but he still had this irrational urge to seize Bucky and make him flirt with him. At one point, Sarah turned toward him and winked, mouthing “he’s cute” and he was glad his friend was too focused on mixing their diner to notice his whole face turning red. Great, so his sister knew.
Then his nephews came home, all buzzling energy and Sam kept a vigilant eyes on Bucky because he knew kids could be overwhelming. But despite being more nervous than with Sarah, the man handled it like a champ, even letting them touch his vibranium arm. It was a sweet sight, the quick glance toward Sam as if to ask for his approval a tender if sad one too. The dinner was delicious as usual, the kids bombarding Bucky with question about Captain America, Wakanda’s princess and the metal arm before eventually turning to more mundane subject and complaining about homework. When the kids go to sleep, the three adults remained around the table to discuss comfortably before Sarah eventually went to sleep too.
He let Bucky install himself on the couch, brushing off one last offer to sleep in a hotel because I don’t want to bother, Sam. He hesitated in front of his friend, wondering if he should warn him about his intention to talk about Captain HYDRA tomorrow. But he decided to let it for tomorrow when he saw his friend so relaxed on the couch, soft pants and shirt hugging gently his body. If his though could be far from HYDRA for one night, he wouldn't ruin it.
“Good night, Buck,” that’s what he settled for.
“Good night, Sam.” And when he turned to join his own room –“Sam. Thank you, for… this.” He motioned at the room around him, meeting his eyes with sincerity. His heart melt a little and he bit his lips to prevent himself from spilling awkward words of adoration.
ooOOoo
Sam was already working on the boat when Bucky joined him, smoothly maneuvering himself between ropes and tools. He smirked at the omega.
“Good sleep ?” It was rhetorical because Sam ran, ate with his nephew and Sarah and showered without the man waking up. And if he was being an annoying shit about it now, he was genuinely glad the man could rest that well.
“Yeah, yeah, you can laugh. Sarah’s sofa is nice,” he gave as an explanation. “How can I help ?”
Turn out Bucky wasn’t half bad about fixing boats. He was a fast learner -which didn’t surprised Sam- and a strong one too. They were both in a pretty good mood, the sun high in the sky so the work was agreeable. He was looking at Bucky’s back rippling beautifully as he was screwing on a heavy metal, his eyes traveling along his neck, his arm then his ass before he caught himself and gazed away, embarrassed with himself. He couldn’t help but wonder obsessively what the man though about him. He knew he cared about him and trusted him but he wondered if there was any chance that he held romantic interest in Sam. It was hard to read Bucky concerning those matter, even more giving the fact Sam had never witnessed him express any interest in anyone. Though he was glad about this fact if frustrated not to have any reference to compare himself.
There was also the matter that Sam was a male beta : if he didn’t think Bucky was homophobe, he couldn’t forget the man was from the 40’s. Plus there had been this idea back in those years that an omega should be with an alpha -though the reciprocal hadn’t been true. There again, he doubted Bucky though the same giving the fact Bucky Barnes had been famous for his rebellious spirit : one of the very few omega that had fought during the war and largely the most famous one. He remembered when he was young and studying history : his name was learned as a companion of Captain America, sure, but also as an example for the progress of Omega’s right and a motor for those.
He studied his friend. He forgot too often about the wonderful man Sergeant Barnes – the world forgot too often – had been, instead only seeing the Winter Soldier and broken man following. Sam could see him now and it was a view he appreciated.
He startled when he noticed his friend had stopped working and was instead watching him back, a questioning and unsure gaze. He felt his cheeks warm yet couldn’t seem to look away. But good god were those eyes so pretty-
His phone rang, pulling him out of his though.
“Sam Wilson speaking.”
“Sam, it’s Rodhey.”
“Rodhey, hi !” he exclaimed with a smile, Bucky cocking his head, intrigued.
“Yeah, hi. I’m just calling you concerning the Jotun you brought us a few months ago, I know you wanted to be kept in the loop.”
“Yeah you’re right.” He had almost forgot about this, the new revelation concerning HYDRA and Rogers diverting his focus. “What about them ? Did Ross started any shit ?”
“He certainly tried for months. He got away with a few examinations and research on them but I’ve looked into it and had people monitor him ; it’s nothing bad I swear.” He explained. “I’ve called because they were transferred into New Asgard yesterday – they are under strict surveillance but Valkyrie reached an agreement to give them minimum freedom under her care.”
He nodded. “Okay. Yeah, that’s faire ; thousand years being kept inside a stone is punishment enough in my opinion. Thanks man.”
He hung up, confirming the new to Bucky who probably had heard everything.
“You agree with the decision ?” he asked out of curiosity and because Bucky had contributed to stop them too.
“Yes. Thousand years is too long for anybody and the stone dropped them in an unknown environment without giving them much choice. Plus, Valkyrie is tough, she’ll be able to handle them.”
His though circled back to the stone – the Tesseract more precisely and how it had trapped, via a north god, the Jotun for years until they were freed by Tony’s snap months ago. And – it rang familiar somehow.
“Shit.” He was hit by a realization. “I know why Captain HYDRA disappeared for years.” Bucky tensed at his mention but didn’t interrupt him. “You said he was killed by Loki back in 2012 but he wasn’t killed – he was aspirated by the Tesseract, just like the Jotun. It’s more than plausible Loki would be able to do that and that’s why you didn’t hear from Rogers for years. And just like the Jotun, he was freed when Tony’s snapped.”
“You’re right,” he whispered, wide eyes. “The SHIELD’s NASA base you investigated was destroyed when he appeared back there, the exact same place he disappeared in 2012.”
He mulled over this information for a bit before glancing back at Bucky.
“Buck… When we’re going to face Rogers again… I’ll need to have all the information you have on him. You understand that, right ?”
He observed him carefully, eyes squinted before nodding.
“I don’t need every details if you’re not comfortable with sharing them but it’s obvious you and him have a link and I need to know - I need to know what to expect, okay ?” he asked, trying not to sound too assertive nore too hesitant because he knew it was important – he couldn’t engage in a war against Captain HYDRA without understanding his motive and what to expect from him towards Bucky.
The omega glanced away at the ocean with a sigh, his head dropping just slightly. “Yeah, I know. I understand, Sam.”
His chest felt painful and he hated that he had to ask that of him. They went back to work, though the atmosphere was less joyous than before. They still did great work and Sam was proud, impatient to show off their efficience to his sister. They took a break to eat and Sam decided to bring Bucky to a local selling fresh sea food.
“Hi Marc !” he greeted to old man holding the shop.
“Well if it’s not Darlene’s son ! It’s been a long time, Sam,” he was greeted loudly, making him snort at his enthusiasm.
“Yeah, though I could enjoy some of your grilled fish. This is my friend Bucky,” he introduced the omega standing behind, who awkwardly smiled in return.
They installed themselves on a little table facing the sea, a gentle breeze keeping them from heating too much under the sun. There were the only people, which was good because he knew Bucky wouldn’t be at ease in a crowded place.
“I used to come here often after I left the army,” he commented.
“What was it like for you ? Coming home ?” Bucky asked curiously.
He shrugged. “I was pretty depressed. I just had lost Riley and even seeing my family again seemed pretty shallow after that, though I got better,” he added with a smile. The subject had stopped being too painful to approach for him. He’ll always miss his old friend but he could now think about him with fondness instead of sadness. Meeting Steve then Natasha had helped a lot in doing so.
“If you could go back in time to when he was still alive, would you ?” the omega questioned, before immediately grimacing. “Sorry, that’s-“
He shook his head. “T’s okay.” He knew what was on Bucky’s head – it was the same thing as Sam. And he respected Steve a lot, but he wasn’t him so his answer wasn’t a difficult one. “No, I wouldn’t, not anymore. The present is my life and I’m proud of the way I am today ; and I know that’s what he would want for me. Plus…” he looked at Bucky who was watching him with rapt attention. He inhaled, very much conscious of his next words. “Riley was important for me but you are, too, very much.”
He saw Bucky’s eyes widen and his cheeks redden just as much as Sam was sure his own’s were. Oh god. He fought not to lower his gaze, intent on showing his friend he meant it, his heart beating widely inside his chest.
“Here’s for you !” Marc pulled them out of their gaze and he startled back inside his chair.
He swallowed. “Thank’s !”
They plunged inside their plate, eating in silence for a dozen heavy seconds before Bucky cleared his throat.
“Food is nice,” he commented.
“Yep.”
He picked a fry, he swallowed.
“I wouldn’t go back either. For obvious reason but also… huh, I care about you,” Bucky stuttered bravely before picking up a fry too.
Christ, Bucky was so freaking cute when he wanted, Sam realized. The world could see him as a dangerous and grumpy ex assassin but Sam knew the truth : Bucky Barnes was a sweetheart. He couldn’t help the laugh building out his throat at their ridicules. Shit, Sam had been less awkward with Meredith, his first crush in high-school on their first date and Bucky had been a known flirt in the 40’s. He met Bucky’s eyes, who huffed but smiled too. The rest of the meal was nice and they spent the rest of the day on the boat. Motivated by obvious Bucky’s awareness of him, he tried to flirt a bit, testing the waters.
“Those arms of yours are quite nice…to lift heavy thing.” Or “I’ve brought many dates on this very boat ; it’s always very pleasant when you’re with someone you like.” Or even “Stop smiling, it’s already too hot outside.”
The omega seemed perplex then embarrassed then plain shy – which he wouldn’t have believed was a word he would use to describe Bucky a few months ago, except here they were. He spent the afternoon in an elevated mood, a mix between entertainment – because Sam Wilson liked to flirt – and joyful hope. If the omega didn’t actively reply back as flirty as him, he didn’t react badly nor redirected him either.
They went back when the sun was starting to decline, just in time to say goodbye to Sarah. Apparently his sister was seeing friends but Sam was suspecting she actually had a date giving the fact she had lightly declared she would be back tomorrow. He grinned at her and she rolled her eyes – because she wasn’t the only one allowed to tease.
“Enjoy your friends, sis !”
“Yeah, enjoy,” added Bucky with the same shit-eating grin.
She pulled out her tongue, then kissed AJ and Cass before leaving.
“Okay, who want pizza ?” Sam asked, which was met with cheers.
ooOOoo
The four of them were installed around the TV, Bucky and himself on the couch and AJ and Cass already half asleep on the carpet in front of them. He would feel bad if it wasn’t their favorite spot to watch TV. The kids chose Spirit, delighted to show it to Bucky and while Sam didn’t particularly care for this movie, the atmosphere was nice. He tried not to be too aware of Bucky right on his side and the soft view he gave with his soft pants and white shirt that hugged nicely his form.
His nephew had excitedly explained who was Spirit and just how cool and strong the horse was, shushing themselves mutually as to no spoil the event of the movie ; but halfway through the movie, their day caught up to them, AJ eyes closed and breathed heavily while Cass was fighting to stay awake. His nephew sleeping wasn’t a problem but what was more worrying was Bucky next to him. What had started at him entertaining the kids with question about the horse had transformed in a total silence – and not a comfortable one. And yeah, Sam finally understood why when Spirit eventually lost – well, his spirit. He was an idiot. The story was about a horse being kidnaped then beaten into submission until he followed his master’s orders. Exchange Spirit by Bucky and it was the same fucking story.
He tried to grab his friend’s attention without success, hesitating to stop the movie but eventually decided not to as to not make his nephew ask question he wouldn’t be comfortable to answer and because he didn’t want to vex Bucky if Sam had read the situation wrong. Though, the second the movie ended, he woke up the kids and put them to their bed. He quickly came back to his friend who hadn’t moved.
“Buck ? You’re alright ?”
His head slightly turned his way though not completely. “Hm.”
Unsure if it was a confirmation or not, Sam carefully sat beside his friend.
“The movie… did it hit too close to home ?” he guessed softly.
The omega exhaled, falling back onto the couch.
“It’s laughable, I know. It’s a fucking kid movie for god sakes !” he half laughed half choked.
“I’m sorry, I should have-“
“No Sam, it’s not your fault. It’s just… The fucking horse was strong enough to escape, you know ?”
They sat in silence, Sam offering silent comfort as his friend seemed lost in his though. “Dr.Raynor, Steve… they all tell me it wasn’t my fault and – I think I’m starting to get it and I’m so angry at all the people that allowed the Winter Soldier to exist – the handler, the scientist, Zola. I loath them for all the victims they did through me but… Sam… Sometime I’m so ashamed of what I myself have allowed ! And in those moments it’s not them that I hate but me”. He sighed, a tamed distress and sadness in his voice that hurt to hear. He turned his head to look at Sam. There was an hesitant question in his gaze and Sam understood it was Bucky’s offering and asking permission to share his traumatic past under HYDRA’s thumb.
“I’ll listen,” he assured softly and Bucky nodded, gulping.
“Ok, so. HYDRA had many ways to control me. The chair, the words but also the bonds. When I was captured by the Russians, I was unbonded and at first they didn’t change that. I mean, the fact I was an omega was just- Well, I was an omega prisoner and they wanted to break me so… But they collared me so I wouldn’t be bitten by the first alpha.”
Sam fought against a grimace, fully aware of what kind of violence Bucky must have received as an omega. He was aware that right now his friend needed a listening ear and not righteous outrage at his treatment.
“That changed when they began to be able to control me a bit better. I was more malleable and they wanted to increase my efficiency and my loyalty ; so they had Kaprov, my first handler, bond with. By the time I hadn’t have any natural heat anymore but they managed to create an heat inducer powerful enough to work despite the serum. Then they confirmed their theory being that the bite would be able to heal given time and that’s how every 7 to 10 years, when the previous bond was healed, I had a new alpha.”
He paused, chew on his lips as if hesitating to continue but he eventually did.
“I’ve read about heat inducer, you know, and they’re not supposed to change your personality or… or make you uncontrollable. But me, in those moments ? I was desperate for any kind of affection and so fucking compliant. And I’m not even talking about sexually ; I could take a beating with pleasure if it meant I could have a caress afterward. From nazis ! And if doesn’t come from the heat inducer, it means it only comes from me…”
“Hold on, Buck. First, we don’t know what they put in their shitty inducer and second, it doesn’t come from a deeply hidden desire from you to be cuddled by nazis, okay ? It comes from years of human touch deprivation and abuse. Put anybody under 70 years of hell and they’ll do anything for a moment of respite.”
“How do you know that ?” Bucky exclaimed and it wasn’t anger or a rebuttal of Sam’s words but plain despair to be convinced.
He grab firmly his cheeks with the palm of his hand and stared straight into his blue eyes. “I know. God Bucky, if there is one thing you must trust me on, please let it be on this one. Whatever you did during your captivity, it doesn’t define you and your wants.”
The blue eyes softened. “I trust you, Sam. Not just on that…” he nuzzled inside his hand and Sam felt himself combust.
“Shit, come here,” he said and pulled the man in a hug. The omega responded in kind, pulling him closer by his arms around his waist. He squeezed him tight, wishing to never let him go.
“Thank you for being there,” the man mumbled in his neck, the warm breath giving him goosebump.
“Always, man.”
They detangled themselves without hurry, and Bucky offered him a light smile. Sam smirked back, though it probably was much more soft than intended.
“Do you want to continue ?” he asked, mindful not to push his friend.
“Yes, if you’re okay with it. Talking… talking actually helps,” he replied in wonder and Sam chuckled. “Hm. So, then, Captain HYDRA arrived.”
ooOOoo
Steve finds himself in a former residential area in front of an old and scruffy house, where he is assured by the agent speaking in his ear that the weapon he is supposed to subdue is. Laying low there is smart because there aren’t any cameras or security while it’s not remote enough from the city to be an obvious hide. But more than anything, Steve finds it pathetic to decide to live like a rat instead of having a purpose and working with HYDRA.
He doesn’t lose any time and barge inside the house by breaking the front door. He doesn’t care for subtility, he doesn’t need it. He finds his target, kitchen knife in hand waiting for him in front of him. He’s tall, well built but otherwise not too impressive in his plain clothes. Steve comes into contact with him at full speed, his first strong punch blocked with an arm. The man stumbles back.
“S-Steve ?” he mumbles hesitantly.
Well, that’s surprising. He takes a few seconds to study his face. Disheveled hair, pretty blue eyes, young but tired feature. It doesn’t ring any bell. He attacks again. He doesn’t hold back his strength but isn’t in a hurry either. His opponent is good enough to make it enjoyable, even though his blow doesn’t hold as much strength as Steve and he is much more timid in his attack. He isn’t making any real use of his knife, he notices with a snort. With a well aimed kick in his abdomen, he sends the man crashing to the wall.
“Not too bad but clearly not worth the fuss. Come on, time to go back to HYDRA, they still want you.”
He makes to grab him but is stopped by a firm grasp on his forearm.
“…You’re not Steve.”
“No, probably not,” he confirms with a smirk.
He is met by two eyes of steel ice staring at him with coldness that surprises him by the contrast with the earlier haze. He spends an unknown amount of time just staring at those fiery eyes before he is swiped out his feet, literally. He falls hard on his back and has just enough time to block the knife aiming to his gut. He snarls, surprised, before using his full strength and flipping the man above him as he jumps back on his feet. His opponent maneuvers himself midair to land gracefully on his feet and doesn’t waste any time ; he charges at him. The exchanged blows and strikes that follows are a blur. The confidence Steve felt minutes earlier are giving place to a giddy excitement.
“You are strong !” he exclaims with a feral smile, his heart pumping with adrenaline and singing with joy. Steve feels like he might be physically stronger but the other is quicker and deal every one of his skillful strike in a clever succession that prove just how much this man is experienced.
It’s delightful.
Steve punches him in the face and the man responds with a kick to his gut that makes him stumble back but he manages to grab his opponent’s knees with full intention of twisting it apart. The knife that splits the air and stab right through his hand prevent him of doing anything and he jerks back with a surprised yet pained cry. He glares at the man, angry yet excited. He lunges at him, teeth bared as he ignores the nick of the knife that pierces into his arm he has raised in defense , and slams into his midsection, tackling him to the floor which crack under the violence. The man underneath him grunts in pain and Steve put his full weight on his thighs, taking advantage of his weakened body to pins him to the floor. He grabs the wrist holding the blade that comes at his neck with one hand and slams the brunet’s head to the floor with the other.
He pants, taking advantage of these few seconds of respite to catch his breath, the hot flow of the blood from his injured arm catching his attention when it drops slowly onto the man’s face. It’s a mesmerizing sigh and, perhaps it’s the submissive position, the mark he catch sight of into his neck or maybe just pure instinct, but as he bend down to smell the man, he knows. HYDRA’s asset is an omega ; the scent a mixture of blood, sweat and a sweet earthy tang.
“An omega ?” he questions aloud, taken aback.
His hold relax for a fraction of second and it costs him.
Teeth rips his wrist apart and in the next seconds both his arms are lacerated in one smooth movemement. He jerks his arms back with a grunt of pain and doesn't have the time to do anything before a kick send him crashing back. In a blur, the man lunges at him and a hot flash of pain erupts in his chest when the omega stabs him viciously between two ribs.
He is left gasping on the floor as the omega stands upon him. He tries to stand up but the second he does, the knife cut down his throat.
What just hap-
It’s a gurgle he makes in surprise, not a gasp.
He's-
It's not the pain that makes his though so stuttering. It's the bewilderment - the sheer wonder of what happened - what this man did to him.
The wound on his throat is not profonde enough to kill him on the spot but it’s not superficial either. It's bleeding and- He meets the weapon’s eyes, mouth open and pain flares when he tries to stand up again. He realizes, he might die.
It’s not really fear he feels even in front of the possibility of his death because he's too stuned to feel anything but bafflement. Though defeated, he doesn't doubt his capacity ; no : he recognizes his opponent's strenght. An omega, who might just be his equal when it comes to fighting.
He stares at the man, too confused to do anything but wait for the finishing cut, blood spilling at every one of his breath.
Blue eyes meet his own. They are cold, they are burning with anger and determination : he's going to be free, he's going to kill Steve-
But then there is a trace of hesitation and pain as the omega meets his eyes. The hand holding the knife waver.
Then the man turns on his heels in quick and jerking motion, letting him gasping on the floor as he stares through a veil of pain and incomprehension.
He's not dead.
The omega disappear. Steve remains on the floor and suddenly he laughs, a wet sound escaping his throat as eagerness fills his body beside the pain. He growls between gasping weeze, thrilled at this encounter then whine in pain. A wave of terrible alpha’s excitement courses through his body.
This HYDRA is weak, yes, but its weapon ... it's not.
Not this asset, and he decides he wants to make it his.
Notes:
and that's how they met ! It was pretty much love at first sight for Captain HYDRA when Bucky almost killed him lol
I'm not entirely satisfied with their first fight but oh well...also, I'm so sorry I'm so bad at writing romance... but Sam and Bucky are cute so I still want to try aha
see you next chapter !
Chapter 13
Notes:
TW : rape - though not detailed. this chapter is not pretty.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
2005 - 2008
It’s fascinating. In the unsatisfying and deplorable universe that Steve has found himself in, he finally has discovered something to hold his interest. HYDRA’s weapon, the Asset, a male omega that might be Steve’s equal in term of physical strength.
Scientist has just strapped him onto a wide metal chair and Steve is watching avidly what is going to happen ; to the obvious displeasure of Pierce. The man on his right had noticed his presence inside the room and had ordered him to leave. He had refused and it was the first time he had demonstrated such clear insubordination. The older man had reluctantly let him stay after a tense silent confrontation, the icy glare of the man an impressive one that still couldn’t shake him. No, Steve has decided he was interested in the Asset and he more than deserve to witness “the wipe” as he heard scientist say, as Captain HYDRA and as the alpha that has brought back the Soldier.
Three weeks after his near death by the Soldier and being brought back by agents, HYDRA has been able to locate him once again in another city. He had spent those weeks restlessly, torn between the humiliation and bore of healing and the exhilaration of this new opponent. He had replayed the fight in his head, the man’s expression, his faint scent countless time. It had driven him crazy, those first few days of recovery when he had been unable to search for him, to bring him back, to make him submit.
When healed, Steve had taken the lead of a small team to bring him back. The support had been almost humiliating, but Steve could recognize the benefice of teamwork and subduing without killing was far harder – the snipping and the tranquilizer had been marvelously efficient, even though the omega had almost managed to escape once again. It spoke more of the Asset’s skill that any lack on Steve’s part.
A guard mouth is placed inside the weapon's mouth and metal encases his head as he pants and squirms in a fiddle attempt to break free. It’s pitiful yet attractive too, the way his muscles ripples vainly, eyes wide and scared. The Soldier glares weakly at Pierce before submissively lowering his gaze. He then catches Steve gaze pleadingly and the fear let place to something akin to sadness -maybe. He’s never been good at reading expression.
He holds his gaze as the wire slams into the man’s body and his body jerk with a scream of pain. He watches intently as the omega is groggily dragged into his tank to then be frozen.
What a process.
His next step is to find out more about the Asset. The following months, Pierce and him come to an unspoken deal : he follows orders mostly correctly and Steve obtains the information he wants. So here he comes to know about the Winter Soldier and how he was created from Sergeant James Buchanan Barnes, close friend of Captain America. The Steve Rogers of this universe was quite disappointing – the fact he wasn’t even able to hold on to his so called best friend just another point of scorn. Through several document, he gets a glimpse of just how efficient HYDRA’s Asset really is. The universe he is from is close to perfect but he can admit that if one thing is lacking, it’s the Winter Soldier. It’s all the more odd yet intriguing knowing his second gender.
In his universe, allowing an omega to fight like Sergeant Barnes had would have been unthinkable – a rule he agreed on. Steve didn’t quite hate omegas but he didn’t care much about them either outside of sex. There was a weakness to them he found disgusting and the way they tended to fall into their instinct was annoying. He was an alpha and a powerful one – he deserved an omega to bond with but he doubted any omega deserved him. The Soldier was one of those omega so he was weak and submissive too – yet his tamed strength was likable and quite fascinating so Steve decided he had earned his attention.
The Soldier is used again 9 months later for an assassination in Madripore. He has been punished and Steve is able to see the impressive effect of the chair. The Asset is a blank slate of coiled muscle ready to comply, the dull yet steel blue ice of his eyes one of a predator ready to kill on its master’s order. Yet he’s just a leashed dog and it’s only on the second mission, 3 months after the first he is able to witness when the dog is unleashed. A government to overthrown by mean of several assassinations and the protection of an influential family, all the while the country in plunged inside the chaos of a civil war. The Asset and himself have very distinct mission ; he suspects Pierce’s wish to keep him away from the Soldier. But Steve isn’t a compliant pawn to be waved at the king’s liking. In this universe, he’s his own king accepting the sole wish of HYDRA's queen, and if he has decided to follow Pierce for now, this HYDRA doesn’t deserve his indisputable compliance. So he follows the Soldier and its team. He’s heard rumors about the Winter Soldier, he dueled against him : he’s not surprised seeing the sheer brutal and deadly skill – but he’s awed and enthralled. It’s a thing of beauty, this oxymoron of a creature that meekly kneels with one command but slash and tears through enemies with another.
He is now back in the USA, the Asset’s team back two days after himself too. They are congratulated as the Asset’s alpha Everett finishes his rapport. He is a dull man and a weak alpha. How someone like him ended as the alpha of the great weapon that is the Soldier is baffling. The serum in the omega’s veins allows the alpha’s bite to heal and give it a few more years, the bond between Everett and the Soldier will be severed. He knows that he deserves to be the omega’s alpha – he deserves most of the omegas. But as he observes Everett with disdain, it’s the first time he thinks he wants it, too.
ooOOoo
Years pass and Steve expanses HYDRA’s influence into the world. They are gaining power but it’s still far too little compared to what it should be. Yet the excruciating feeling of weakness is more tolerable since he has begun his research on the Asset and James Barnes. He learns more, little by little when he has time about Captain America and Sergeant Barnes’s relationship and he has learnt to ignore Steve Rogers presence on those story - this version of him is too weak and frustrating to focus on.
They met when they were young. They grew very close and Barnes defended him against bully and sickness. And the shame of it, to be protected by an omega – Steve would have rather died. He doesn’t think about his own childhood before meeting Docteur Zola. His body was weak but not his mind and he never had asked nor needed an omega’s help.
History books describe Barnes’s courage and his role in the omega right’s progress ; he’s one of the people whose example helped vastly extend omega’s right in the 50’s – an event that never happened in Steve’s own universe. It’s naïve on this universe government’s part – Barnes was the exception, not the generality but oh well. It doesn’t seem to have caused too much trouble in the country so he tolerates this change without too much care.
Following his story alongside Captain America inevitably leads him to imagine what it would have been like, to have James Barnes by his side in his original universe. Maybe his few years as a weak child would have felt less lonely. He would have found his place behind Steve inside HYDRA despite his omega nature. He thinks he would have made him his omega ; he actually can’t understand why Rogers in this universe didn’t and apparently chose a beta named Carter. He didn’t hold any prejudice against beta, he usually preferred them to omegas, but an alpha in position of power shouldn’t settle for one instead of a rarer omega – it was a sign of weakness or obvious lacking on the alpha’s part.
He manages to see the Soldier any time he is deployed even though he rarely goes on mission with him. Pierce doesn’t try to prevent him from it anymore. He can instead feel the man pensively watching him and the Asset, a blank expression hiding calculating eyes every time he is in their presence. Steve has been distracted by the appearence of the Winter Soldier in his life for quite a while but sometime, he quietly considers getting rid of Pierce. The old man is a descent leader but Steve is better suited to lead HYDRA. Though for now, he wants to learn more about the Soldier, so he never really commits to a real plan, his though turned elsewhere. It's okay, he has time.
Time pass, missions goes by, sometime with the omega. Fighting alongside him is thrilling and yet, Steve would prefer to fight against him. Sometime he thinks back about the day they met and the shiver that courses his body is unholily good. In those moments he also considers what it would be like, being his handler. The Soldier, killing at his word and looking out for any of his order. What a duo they’d make, if with his sharp planning and strength Steve handled him like the Asset and HYDRA deserved ; he’d lead them to greatness. The Soldier would service him, too, because he is a weapon but he is an omega too – would be his omega. It’s usually at this moment that Steve gripes his hard member. He wouldn’t be gentle when fucking him because he is not to be coddled – but he would make him feel pleasure if the omega was good and obedient. Sometime he’d allow himself to be sweet to him, maybe even make love more softly – Steve is confident enough in his masculinity to do so from time to time.
Steve enjoys the moments with the Soldier and he has a malicious joy at noticing it’s not reciprocated. The multiple wipes erase the details from missions and interactions the Asset have but what little emotion or impression he holds on situation or people isn’t ; his discomfort – which would be called dislike if he was more human – lingers every time he is in Steve’s presence. He’s the person the Soldier show the most emotion around, even if it’s negative ones and he likes it. The whole base has come to know about Captain HYDRA’s interest in dominating the Winter Soldier ; Everett is his alpha just in name. He spends time with him between missions, too, during the few days at the base he is yet to be put back in cryo. Everett doesn’t put up a fight and allows the Soldier to follow Steve’s order. He taunts, fight and teases the omega as much as he can because he has to show he is best suited to handle him and because he loves his reaction and the scowl he only ever produce for him. Other agent would punish him for it but Steve doesn’t – he likes it.
Little by little, the fact that he will be the Soldier’s next alpha becomes an evidence for him.
In 2008, he comes to realize it’s not as obvious for HYDRA. Apparently the next alpha has already been decided : Brock Rumlow. The man doesn’t like him and Steve doesn’t care much but he too dislikes him enough for the man not to be just another faceless person. The fact that Pierce would consider anyone else but him for the Asset is as baffling as it is infuriating. Rumlow is skilled enough but he’s nowhere near Steve’s level and Pierce should know that. So Steve realizes he has to demonstrate just how serious he is in his ambition to handle the Soldier.
ooOOoo
2008
Captain HYDRA has made the Asset crawl while following the man around the whole base under the laugh of the agents, is the last new. Pierce keeps an eye on this type of behavior because he wants to assure it doesn’t goes too far. Last time, agent Rogers had severely whipped the Soldier's back before petting him like a dog between his legs – Pierce had witnessed this part. It had almost made him regret to have allowed Rogers some authority over the Asset. He doesn’t mind the humiliation but he does the damage to HYDRA’s best weapon ; so he had scolded the man. He is glad to see the Captain has heeded his order and limited damages.
The agents seem to enjoy those events and while Pierce finds this type of behavior tasteless, he can guess why. In the sea of unnamed agents, the Winter Soldier is an irreplaceable good which causes envy but most are too afraid to go against or even order around the Soldier like Captain HYDRA does. The man isn’t afraid to put it back in its place, for the delight of most people. Captain HYDRA is an exception, too. Because Pierce wouldn’t allow anyone else except the Soldier’s alpha, maybe, to ridicule their weapon – the Winter Soldier is a legend controlled by HYDRA’s elite like himself and cannot become a common good and stress relief for nobodies. No, this need to be paid for. Yet Rogers’s interest and obnubilation with the Soldier is a blessing in disguise that he wont discourage.
Pierce isn’t stupid : Captain HYDRA is strong, smart, a capable leader and an aspiration : the man had been close to dispose of Alexander and he believes he would have eventually done it if not for meeting the Asset. The decision to hand over the mission of bringing it back to Rogers, which had worried him so much, had turned out to be the best one he could ever make. Because now Pierce has something he wants but can’t have and in addition to securing his place as a leader, it canalizes the Captain pent up energy into the Asset. The man has been much more agreeable and less conflicting the last few years and he’s not sure of it’s a conscious effort on Rogers’s part or not but it pleases him nonetheless.
“The Asset is to be put back in cryo,” Pierce orders Christen. “Agent Rogers had his fun.”
The man nods and he can see agent Possigny, next to the man, having difficulty not to roll her eyes. He hides his irritation over the woman behavior and ignores her as the two get out his office. Benjamin Christen is a level headed and reliable agent he trusts as much as a man in his position can. He is loyal to the cause and is one of the few people the Captain will listen to. Not as an equal or as a friend but as a competent agent worth enough to lend a hear if he has something to say. Now, Elise Possigny is another issue. Pierce is the one that brought her under HYDRA’s wings when she was young and still developing her skills ; she used to follow his lead without a doubt but she hasn’t been the same since Rogers’s arrival. He suspects she is loyal to the alpha and not Pierce or even HYDRA. It’s her pitiful omega nature, which one had been a great asset to lure her victim, that has made her so desperate for the blond alpha who doesn’t even notice. As long as he controls Captain HYDRA though, he controls her too but he wont hesitate to dispose of her if necessary.
It's a good thing agent Rumlow isn’t here, too. He isn’t blind to the tension slowly building between him and the Captain ; Rumlow is the Soldier’s next alpha and Rogers is challenging his right and authority over the Asset so the obvious dislike on his part is easy to understand. He has announced the man's future title as handler 4 years ago, the choice an easy one : he has a way with the Asset that is unmatched , even compared to his actual alpha Everett and Christen had graciously accepted his defeat in front of Rumlow’s enthusiasm. He isn’t always pleased by the somewhat gentle way he tends to address the Soldier but he isn’t too soft either as to forget it is a weapon ; and whatever he is doing is enforcing wonderfully the Asset’s obedience so he doesn’t complain.
But 3 months later, the Captain enters his office and demands to be the Soldier’s next alpha.
ooOOoo
“He brought me back when I escaped and from then he was obsessed with the Asset. I think Bucky Barnes never existed in his universe… maybe that’s why he was curious ? I’m not sure. Honestly, I don’t understand his motives even now that my head is clearer. But at the time, with the multiple wipes and the unknown emotions his familiar face brought, it was even worst. I loathed him so much -more than any other nazi scum- and I didn’t even understand why. Yet it was still Steve even if I wasn’t aware of that and I believe in my subconscious, I knew it, which why it was so hard to hate him and not follow him.”
It was surprisingly easy to talk to Sam, now that he had begun.
“He would make a show out of how compliant I was and organize those duel against him for everyone to witness every time I was out of cryo.” His throat felt suddenly tight remembering those humiliation, the fights the worst of them all. Today, with a clear mind and having read HYDRA’s file, he guessed it probably had been as much for his entertainment than a way to ascertain his right as his handler, especially over Rumlow’s, once Pierce agreed the Captain would be his next handler.
“There wasn’t one clear moment when the bond with my alpha broke ; they would only feel it weaken so the procedure during a transition of handler was to bite me again and again until it took while I was in heat. It usually was pretty clinical,” he mused, faint souvenir of uncomfortable days spent with the strong and unreachable need for physical comfort that never came, his only company one alpha coming once a day to bite him over the previous healing bond, usually without so much as a gentle touch even if one or two had took advantage of his state to bond during a more typical moment of sex under the form of a brutal fucking and spitted dirty words. Rogers though…he had been crueler about it.
ooOOoo
“You won’t be the Soldier next alpha.” Pierce declares neutrally but firmly. The alpha’s eyes in front of him widen in shock.
“Wha- What ? What do you mean ?” he chokes on his words, angry alpha pheromone enveloping them.
“You won’t be the Soldier next alpha,” he repeats. “This role will be the Captain.”
“You can’t !” he exclaims. “Not this degenerate ! Why-“
“Of course I can,” he reprimands steely before continuing with more softness. “Do not take this decision as an injure to your capacity, it’s not. You will lead Strike team instead.”
The alpha remains silent a few seconds, struggling to finds his words with unusual distress. “Sir, you need to reconsider. The Asset – he answers greatly to me. Rogers ? He only knows how to- to use him for himself, he doesn’t know how to take care – to handle him. Please, I-“
He raises his hand to silence him. “My decision is taken and I wont come back on it, even though I apologize for those change of plan. You are dismissed.” The man remains unmoving, staring at him. “Agent Rumlow, you. Are. dismissed.” He repeats coldly ; he appreciates the man but if he can’t accept his decision, he’ll have to be demoted, permanently.
He leaves without another word. It’s regrettable but allowing Rogers’s demand is a good thing. He has realized it’s not hurt ego over his first defeat or just power trip that fuels the Captain’s interest in the Asset. It’s fascination, maybe the one of an alpha towards an omega and though he can’t for the life of him understand, it suits him that the alpha has apparently forgoten the Soldier is just a weapon and not a real human being. It gives him something to stay and be loyal for. HYDRA possess the Soldier and the Captain can’t, not without him. So just as Pierce uses any advantage, he uses this obsession over his weapon for the better. It’s not ideal because he does not fully trust the Captain and he feels like he will have less control over the Asset. But he will have more control over Rogers and Pierce has something the man will never have : the words. If one day the Captain comes to betray him, the Asset is the only one that’ll potentially be able to stop him.
Everett still has one or two years in front him but Pierce is curious to see how the future unfolds.
ooOOoo
2009
Elise is present for the next duel. She hates them and still, in a way, they bring some satisfaction. There is a little bit more of people every time it happens as the event has become popular within the organization. The quantity of alphas in the crowd surrounding the arena is annoying to her if impressive. Their odor and excited pheromones are quite disgusting and she’s thankful for Benjamin’s silent presence at her side. He’s mostly here for her, she knows, as he doesn’t particularly enjoys the show nor the crowd either. An omega in the middle of a crowd of excited alpha would scream at disaster but Elise can stand her ground and the entirety of HYDRA knows it, though her friend presence is appreciated simply because she is too tired to enjoy taking down a horny bastard.
There is happy howls and loud whistle when a light swiff of omega pheromone in heat reach their nose and she snorts disdainfully a their reaction. But, well, alpha can’t help themselves in front of whores and there is the biggest omega bitch she’s ever knownn entering the small arena right now. She bares her teeth in response at this mockery of an omega. Her hatred for the Winter Soldier is abyssal. All of her life, from the moment she was born inside that brothel until now, she fought to prove her worth and that secondary gender has nothing to do with strength. Omegas aren’t weak and submissive and they aren’t born to be exploited by some sick person. Yet the Asset is proving the entire opposite : compliant to every order, desperate for any scrape of attention and begging to be used any way ; he’s a disgraces of an omega and she hates him for it.
Captain HYDRA enters under cheers and her eyes doesn’t leave his form. She wouldn’t loath the Asset as much if it wasn’t for this alpha. For a long time, she disliked every man on principle, her hazy memory of her early childhood far too vivid to do otherwise. She has learned with time and as she gained control over her life that all men weren’t the same – some were worth to work with or even to appreciate sex with. Yet never before had she met a man as worthy as the Captain. He is everything she unconsciously wished for in a mate : strong, reliable, powerful and dedicated to the bigger cause that is HYDRA. So to see his attention focused on this… Soldier, it angers and disgusts her deeply. Rogers wants to be the Asset's alpha for power – that’s the only thing conceivable in her opinion – but he doesn’t need it, he’s already one of the most powerful man inside HYDRA ! Maybe the free access to sex motivates him too – because the Asset is easier than a common whore. Elise doesn’t consider herself easy but if she had an alpha like the Captain, she wouldn’t say no so it shouldn’t be a parameter to the Captain.
She watches as the alpha makes his deal. She doesn’t hear him but she doesn’t need because it’s the same every time : agent Rogers will bite the Soldier if he wins . And here come her dual opinion on those fight : she wants the Captain to win, to beat up, make this poor excuse of an omega bleed and hurt – but she dread the outcome of this victory, dread every time his teeth sink in this neck that the bond will take. She wants that bond for herself and nobody especially this being deserves it otherwise.
The fight is brutal and fast paced as everytime. She can’t begrudge the Asset his talent : he can held his own against the Captain though she wishes he didn’t. The duel ends with Rogers on the floor, two hands around his neck with the Soldier standing above him. His torso is bruised, a river of blood trickling from his mouths and one of his eye has been injured ; still she would have enjoyed more painful wounds. The result is disappointing but it sometime happens that the Asset wins even if it’s rare. The Captain never loses any respect from the soldiers when it happens because everyone knows of the Asset’s skill and if the alpha loses the fight, he does it with grace and he never loses his pride nor the ultimate control.
She leaves when the Captain does, Benjamin silent on her heels and letting the loud men behind. The mixed scents of beta and mostly alpha is disgusting, the single sweet one of omega even more. They cross path with Rumlow and she scowls just as he nods toward Benjamin then sneers upon seeing her.
“Going after your whore ?” she taunts.
He growls which make her smirk even more. The man has become a major annoying asshole the last few years, acting like a precious saint when it comes to the Asset. She sees the way he looks at him : the admiration, the possessiveness and sometime, the tenderness. Everyone know how much Rumlow wanted to be the Asset’s alpha but she might be the only one to understand it’s not just for prestige. It’s funny to see his frustration and jealousy but still, she would prefer him to actually be the next alpha instead of the Captain ; the Asset too, probably, if the puppy look and rapt attention he gives Rumlow is any indication. Agent Rogers might have noticed the Asset’s behavior toward the other agent, too, and she suspects the shows are also a message towards Rumlow ; an alpha marking his territory.
“You should hurry before another alpha fucks him,” she adds gleefully.
“Shut the fuck up, bitch !” he snarls and he accelerates past her while she cackles. It’s bullshit because Elise knows that nobody will touch the omega besides the Captain and Rumlow himself. Everett could, technically but he’s not interested ; sometime he allows people a moment with the Asset : it’s his privilege as his handler but he finds it annoying and it costs a fortune ; plus the Captain wont let anybody else touch the Soldier now. Rumlow as Strike team’s commander and a personal favorite of Pierce – and she suspects as an apology for his future as handler being robbed – is allowed some length when it comes to the omega but that’s it.
“Why must you provoke him everytime, Elise ?” Benjamin sighs.
“Because it’s fun.”
It’s a touchy subject between them, the Asset. Benjamin isn’t an idiot : he doesn’t care about him like Rumlow does but he still dislike the mistreatment and his use for fun time. He has one time given her the cold shoulder when he witnessed her lacerating the Soldier’s back for fun. “I know he can takes it, Elise, what bother me is what it means about you,” he had declared. She has tried not to do that in front of him since then.
She parts way with Benjamin and she heads towards the Captain’s room. She’ll treat his wounds and remember him that there is a worthy omega for him inside HYDRA’s rank.
ooOOoo
“The duel were organized every time I came back from a mission during nearly two years after having pumped me full of heat inducer. I won a few of them but he won the majority. What followed those fight was a public attempt at mating. In 2010, it eventually took.”
ooOOoo
2010
His Soldier is due to arrive anytime now. Their last mission was a success as usual – assassination of an heavily guarded ambassador and forging false evidence to incriminate an adverse party, all the while taking advantage of the chaos to free the terrorist meant for judgment during this ambassador’s presence. His Asset performance is still anchored inside his brain, the prowess of that single snipe into the head one he wont forget, nor the flawless way he responded to any of Steve’s order and requirement. They accomplish grand thing when they work together and HYDRA perfectly know this mission wouldn’t have been achievable with Everett holding the reins. The man still has a hand on them technically – but he gave most of his hold to Steve. Which is a good thing because he might have killed him otherwise ; he considered it either way but eventually refrained because it wouldn’t have accelerate the bond’s process of healing and Pierce would have bitched about it.
So he is waiting for the Asset arrival. Steve arrived back 12 hours ago, bringing in the infamous terrorist and the Soldier took a different extraction road, tiding up some loose end. He is pacing, feverish with excitation and anticipation, more than usual – to the point where he wondered if he was entering a rut, but he had his last one 1 month ago so it’s impossible. He’ll duel again against the omega the moment he comes back and is cleared by the scientific section. It’s been far too long since their last attempt to mate – 5 months and Steve… He just can’t wait.
Agent Christen is the one to inform him that the Asset is back. He wisely doesn’t try to stop Steve even when explaining he is still getting checked on with the tech – a reason he appreciates the man is that he knows how to read the atmosphere. He barrels into the room holding his omega, a feral enjoyment pulsing through him thinking about what is going to happen next. Today like most time, Steve isn’t going to lose – especially seeing the hunched form and the still bleeding wound of the man’s lower abdomen. He’s pretty sure the Soldier didn’t have those wounds when they separated.
Agent Possigny is spotted next to the Soldier and why she’s here, Steve hasn’t got a clue but he doesn’t care much. She’s a good agent and if her overly sweet scent sometime bother him, she’s likable enough for an omega. She tries to greet him but right now he can’t give anybody attention except his omega. He stops right in front of him, only a few centimeters from the heavy chair he is seated on. He ignores the awkward way the scientific are trying to work around him and observes his Asset.
“Look at me, Soldier,” he orders.
Pretty eyes, dull yet with a discreet light he has learn to recognize as distrust and loathe. Handsome features yet soft lips and eyelash, the whole hidden behind disheveled hair and harsh spark of dried blood. Beautiful chiseled chest and abdomen of pale skin and muscle with heavy scaring tissue surrounding the impressive arm with its red star he wears so spectacularly. He also knows what is under the pants ; powerful legs, pretty soft cock and tight little hole that accommodates to him so nicely. The surge of appreciation and… something else is a powerful one. He is perfect and soon, his.
Some of what is going on inside his mind must have transmitted inside his pheromone because he can hear someone awkwardly clearing their throat and Possigny’s face suddenly turning red, her wide eyes glued to him. It was surprising for him too at the beginning, the sexual desire. He never held any for men -even the one or two other omega one he met in his life. But the Soldier is an omega and stunning so Steve has come quite naturally to love his male body too. He also wonders if Possigny wants him to fuck her. She could ask, he wouldn’t say no to a quick fuck ; but she doesn’t so he doesn’t bother to try and understand the agent.
“Is he ready ?” he asks one of the tech he didn’t bother remembering the name.
“Hum -We still need to perform the routine control of his condition-“
“It can wait. Give him his shot.”
The man hesitates for a moment but eventually comply, the heat inducer quickly injected in the omega’s right arm. He nods and with one last look at his Soldier, head back. It takes 30 minutes for the inducer to hit : enough time for him to prepare and for the agents impatiently waiting for the event to gather around the arena. He changes into suitable clothes to fight before joining the fighting area. When he appears, he is acclaimed with cheers. He has succeeded in becoming Captain HYDRA in the whole sense of the title in this universe, too.
The Soldier appears a few seconds later, leaded by Everett. The faint whiff of his pheromone reaches his nose and he inhales deeply, a thrilling yet soothing feeling coursing his body. It still awe him, the way he came to loves his scent, the subtleness yet addictiveness of it. During his childhood, he came to hold a profound dislike of omegas the oversweet scent of omegas in situation out of sex or his own rut. He grew to tolerate them and hold a more neutral opinion on them but he never though he could come to crave one’s pheromone. Yet here he is.
It’s not cheers but jeers that greet his Asset. Steve observes him approach the center where himself is waiting, gaze not wavering despite the tiredness his gait holds. Madame HYDRA, back in his universe, once told him observant wasn’t one of his quality. It might be true -that’s not the point. The point is that he has learnt- is still learning to read his future omega. It’s not that he needs it so much as he wants to decipher everything there is to about him. He knows the Soldier doesn’t like Steve : there is the lightest frown on his face that indicate it everytime he sees him. But he also sees the remanent of loyalty in his gaze – the rapt attention he offers without prompting, the shy trust he sometime hold in his eyes that seem to be asking for answers and guidance – a trust that is broken repeatedly. The Soldier believes he wants to fight against their bond but Steve knows that he is just confused because he can sees his whole being is screaming to be possessed and leaded by the same alpha he offers his trust.
“Soldier. Do you remember the terms of our deal ?” He doesn’t. “If you win this fight, you go back to cryo. If I win, I mate with you.”
The Soldier stares at him and nods and Steve engages. He is more aggressive and the omega more on the defensive than usual. The exhilaration grows blows after blows, attack after counterattack and he pours all his want and crave into it. He’s relentless and feels weightless, the game of cat and mouse as addictive as frustrating. He doesn’t know how much time it last – he never can tell. But at one point he manages to catch the Soldier’s wrist, twist it and snaps it in one clean break. The Asset tense, doesn’t scream but loses one fraction of second that is enough for Steve. He’s on the floor on all four, Steve plastered tight against his back with a arm tight around his neck– he won.
He won and- He wants him now-
His hot breath touches the omega’s neck as he pants with exhaustion and desperate need and excitement.
His whole body feels like it’s shaking as he breaths in those delicious and comforting pheromones. He inhales again, nuzzles the back of the male’s neck where he’s going to put his mark and sighs. “Omega…” he lets out breathlessly without control. The body under him is coiled and there is distress he perceives in his scent despite the obedient way he submits. Such an obedient omega for him…He’s hard, his length pushed tight and urgently into the covered ass of the Soldier as he rolls softly his hips. It’s good.
It’s not enough.
He bites down, hard. The blood is delicious, the sudden rush of endorphin and pheromone and, more than everything, the connection – even more. It takes and Steve doesn’t have the mind clear enough right now to intellectually recognize it but his instinct does. He keeps his teeth squeezed and there’s something inside him howling with pleasure and rightfulness. The jeers, the exclamation, the world around fade and there’s nothing but both of them. It’s only his heart beating wildly inside his chest, the heat of the Soldier and his laborious breathing ; the link that is forming between them and it was meant to be, it’s obvious. It’s his omega, the perfect being for him he has just connected with. There suddenly is an insidious and incomprehensible fear that pierces through the euphoria, the intensity of the feeling blooming inside his chest one he doesn’t understand and the unknown scares him. He squeezes his eyes shut, cold dread blending with the warmth.
He’s never going to be able to let him go – he will not have to but he wouldn’t be able to – he’s in too deep, he’s too implicated, he’s too attached, he’s too enthralled, he might loves-
A faint exhale of pain under him snaps his spiraling though. He exhales, slowly opens his eyes again as he loosen his bite. He let goes of the uneasiness. There is blood seeping slowly from the mark and he kisses it softly before licking the wound with a tenderness he doesn't know he possessed. Why dreading owning such a beautiful creature ? The world around them is slowly appearing back to his senses and for a weak moment he wishes it wouldn’t – that it was just him and the Asset. He irritably ignores this though ; he’s here to make a point, to mark his territory and he will. Such immature and ridiculous want is unbecoming of Captain HYDRA.
He pulls down the Soldier’s pants and opens his own. He takes his due, brutally against the floor and ignores the pained noise and the barely audible voice inside his head pleading him to love his omega.
ooOOoo
Alexander is informed agent Rogers succeeded in bonding with Asset one hour ago. It’s not a good nor a bad news. He is then told he killed an agent ; it’s annoying but maybe necessary for what Alexander must do. He reaches the room holding the chair where the Asset is being prepared for cryo after being wiped. Two scientists are preparing the chair while Rogers is standing next to the Asset, Rumlow in front of them. This one is snarling at the Captain’s claiming hand holding the omega’s neck, hateful and angry pheromones floating in the air. The scent of sex and sweat emitting from the newly bonded pair is disgusting.
“Captain Rogers. I congratulate you for your successful mating.” The man smirks and nods in response, squeezing the bitten flesh under his fingers. “I’ve been told you killed one of my agent. Is that true ?” he asks calmly.
“It is. I didn’t like the way he looked at my omega,” he explains casually.
It will not do. “It is not your decision to make.”
“Please. It was a nobody without any skill to offer to the cause. I did you a favor.” He already had this argument in the past ; Rogers considers their parameters of recruitment too loose. If it was him making the shot, HYDRA would be filled with talented people, yes, but far too few. Alexander blinks calmly, staring down the arrogant man before turning towards the Asset.
“желание”
“ржавый”
He recites the activation words distinctly and unhurriedly under the curious stare of Rumlow and Rogers. They never heard them, the possession of those words for Alexander and his predecessors only.
“солдат ?”
“готовы подчиниться.”
“Break the Captain’s wrist and immobilizes him.”
The alpha doesn’t have the time to react ; there’s a loud crack and in a fraction of second, the Captain is on his knees, one wrist pulled to his back and a knife to his throat. The alpha snarls in anger and surprise, his struggle cut short by the blade digging into his skin.
“You may be his alpha, Captain, but above all the Winter Soldier belongs to HYDRA ; to me. Do not be mistaken : I just have to order him and he’ll kill, however much you think he submits to you. You want him ? Then follow HYDRA and my rules and I wont have to order him to gut you or himself.”
He turns his heels. “Release him, soldier. The rest of you, wipe the Asset.”
He knows he won.
Captain HYDRA is enslaved to Pierce and HYDRA, maybe even to the Asset itself, in a way.
Notes:
That's it for Bucky and Captain HYDRA's past !
It was fun to write the dynamic between the characters, the power game at play. Rogers is a powerful bastard, but Bucky managed multiple time to have the ascendant - and I think it's part of why he's so obsessed with him.
Pierce too succeded to rule in Rogers : he managed to keep him mostly on a leash because of his own complete power over the Asset.I'm really curious at how you view my Captain HYDRA ? Do you like him (not as a person, because I would be worried if you did 😂) but as a vilain character ? I know I enjoyed writing him !
I also liked to give you a glimpse at Christen and Possigny's mind. They'll have their role, even though I've not written it yet aha
I swear next chapter will be more fluffy !
Also, I'm sorry if the chapters take a bit longer to be published : I'm working a lot, sometime the week-end too so I don't always manage to find the time to post... But rest assured that until chapters 20 it's already written so it wont be that long either !
Chapter 14
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
He talked about his vague memories with the russians, he talked about the mating system of his handler. He talked about Captain HYDRA, how he met him and why he hated him so much yet even then recognized him unconsciously. He explained how he had eventually be bonded to the man and the obsessive interest he had held for Bucky, to then disappear in 2012. He had just confessed deep and shameful things he had done and had been subjected to for years under HYDRA and yet Bucky felt good. Embarrassed, sure, and a bit unsure but under Sam’s patient and gentle gaze, he felt freer than he ever thought he could under those circumstances. It was as if a weight he wasn’t even aware of had just been lifted off his chest. Sam smiled at him when he stopped talking and he smiled in return, a profound gratitude for the man.
“Thank you for telling me all this, Buck.”
“Thanks for listening. It…it feels good, in a bizarre way,” he explained awkwardly, to which Sam nodded in understanding.
“Was Rumlow your next handler ? After Rogers ?” Sam asked with hesitation.
“No. Rogers’s mark was too recent to enable any other bond, though he tried, once.” He was silent for a moment, thinking about Sam’s unspoken question. Why do you care for him ? “Rumlow was… gentle, with me. Not always, not at the beginning but he cared about me. I…” loved him, probably. But he couldn’t bring himself to admit it aloud, not to Sam “I wanted him to be my alpha.”
Sam seemed pained but not disgusted or angry, for which he was grateful.
“I know he’s not a good person, but he was good to me, you know ? I went back to him after the mess of the Triskelion but he was in bad form and after I confirmed he wouldn’t die, I left. I kept tabs on him but I hadn’t seen him since.”
“You knew he was in Madripore ?” Sam frowned, vexed.
He flushed. “Yes. Sorry. Knew he was known as Cross Bones too… but I also knew he wasn’t really the one leading the Flag Smasher !” he added quickly in his defense, passing under silence the doubts he’d had. He could see Sam wasn’t pleased about it but he didn’t comment. Bucky hesitated to talk more about this subject. He thought a lot about the fact Rumlow was in prison. He tried to tell himself that his former commander was in fact a terrorist and it was reasonable he remained in prison but however much he repeated it to himself, it didn't sit right with him that the person who took care of him was now imprisoned because of him. He still cared too much as Bucky Barnes for it to be otherwise. But how to tell Sam ?
He eventually didn’t say anything. It was not that he didn’t trust his friend or that he was scared he would be judged but rather that he didn’t want to burden him with his complicate feelings and his unlawful ideas. He already knew what the beta thought about Rumlow.
He didn’t want to sleep and would rather speak with Sam all night but they had plans with AJ and Cass tomorow and Bucky could tell his friend was tired. They parted after a long look that held a fire and promises that Bucky was sure he wasn’t imagining. It was thrilling yet terrifying, what he noticed was happening with Sam. The compliments, the straight up flirting he enacted. At first he pushed it aside, sure it couldn’t be true and that it was wishful thinking on his part but now… he started to wonder if Sam wasn’t hoping for something more, too. He wanted to respond in kind. Had tried, too, but the truth was that he didn’t know how to do it anymore. Playful compliments from Sarah or even Shuri, he responded easily by flirting back -or something more like teasing with Shuri because it would be weird otherwise. With Sam, he panicked and even though responses flew widely inside his head, he couldn’t voice any of them.
He slept profoundly, the sun already high in the sky when he opened his eyes. He met Sam’s eyes as the man seeemed to be back from a run and they shared a wordless smile. Damn but even drenched in sweat the man was beautiful.
“Morning sunshine. You better prepare yourself – AJ and Cass won’t forgive you if you miss the journey to the zoo because you’re a lazy geriatric.”
“Fuck off” he grumbled without heat. Truth was that, in addition to being glad to spend a day with Sam and both his nephews, he was also excited to see the animals as it would be the first time for him.
It was a great day, even though Bucky’s heart clenched at the sight of the larger animals prowling through their cage. It was a big zoo with plenty of space for the animals – Sam had explained to him that several of them were endangered species and the zoo was contributing in protecting them. He ignored it as best as he could and instead focused on the moment he was sharing with the three Wilson. They made it easy, AJ in awe in front of the elephant and Cass had a weird fascination for snakes and big spiders. He didn’t try to hide his laughter at Sam’s obvious discomfort at the tarantulas crawling behind the glass. Bucky’s personal favorites were the red pandas ; the obvious reason being their cuteness. He didn’t even know those furrball existed. Sam and him took turn holding the boys over their shoulders, their energy running low after running around all day.
They came back just in time to help Sarah settle thing for the evening. She had invited “just a couple of Sam’s and my friends” which revealed to be half the town. Sam had insisted that he came, so here he was, awkwardly holding a beer while very conscious of the fact his left arm was on full display. Sarah just introduced him to a few of her high school friends. They were nice and without even realizing it, he relaxed and was actually enjoying the human connection.
“You were a true terror in your youth Sarah, I wouldn’t have guessed,” he commented with a chuckle after another story eagerly delivered from one of her lady friend, Monique.
Sarah faked a gasp. “How dare you Bucky, I’m still in my youth !”
“Why of course ! But you know what they say, you get prettier as you grow old. Just look at me,” he added playfully.
Martha, the little woman with long curls, laughed joyfully. “Oh dear, who lied to you ? You might be the exception but our old Sarah here is too smart to be fouled. Old hag !” she snickered to which Sarah swiped at her and he guessed there was a running gag there.
“Who know, it might be true. Leyla does look pretty good,” Monique commented with a nod toward the side. “It’s been a long time since I saw her.”
Bucky followed her line of sight and his heart churned at the sight of the indeed beautiful woman speaking so casually to Sam. The air around them was easy, both of them speaking animatedly with a grin on their face. His friend looked happy and the wo- Leyla had an affectionate glint in her pretty green eyes he hated.
He looked away when he felt the intrigued and thoughtful gaze of Sarah on him. He squeezed his fist, embarrassed by the ugly feeling coursing his body, which wasn’t helped when Paul, a mostly silent yet peaceful presence asked quietly : “Do you think she still has a crush on Sam ? Like, she divorced years ago…”
He gritted his teeth as he wiped his head again toward the pair. Sam was still fucking smiling- he felt the irrational urge to tear them apart from each other, a bitter dislike toward the woman who yet seemed very nice. Did Sam…No. He surged forward without thinking, walking resolutely toward them. Because Sam had been flirting with him. He had let Bucky inside his home, embraced Bucky no later than yesterday. So no, he wouldn’t let some unknown person preen in front of his … partner.
He planted himself beside Sam as they watched him, curious. He didn’t find anything to say- didn’t search. He just glared at Leyla, even more when he identified her as an omega and realized she was even prettier closer. She seemed bemused, then looked at Sam and a light of understanding cleared her eyes as she stared at him once again.
“Huh…Leyla, this is Bucky, my partner. Buck, it’s Leyla, an old friend.” Sam introduced. He nodded, the gesture the most polite he felt like being.
There was an awkward moment of silence before suddenly, Leyla chuckled, dimples creasing at the corner of her mouth with a mix of amusement and fondness. “I get it. I’ll join Carlos, it’s been a long time. Sam, take care. Bucky… calm down on the pheromones, yeah ?” she winked and she turned heels.
He blinked and caught Sam’s stunned stared, his face red and he felt himself blush when he realized the possessive stance and pheromones he was emitting. God. He had just made a fool out of himself, hadn’t he ?
“Sorry. If I cut down your conversation with her,” he mumbled, only half meaning it. Sam observed him a few seconds, stars and affection in his eyes and something close to adoration in his eyes that made him gulp.
“Nah, it’s okay. She’s nice but I prefer talking with you,” he drawled. Bucky felt like combusting and Sam’s answering smirk was too fucking attractive for him to handle. He exhaled, intent on cooling himself. Then his partner took a step closer to him, their hands almost touching and he stared at Sam, who didn’t shy away. He gulped and he wondered if the adoration and love he felt toward the man could be translated onto his face. For once, he hoped it did. He didn’t want to hide how much he meant to him anymore, how in love-
“Sam-“
“There you are !” Marc greeted loudly with a beam on his face. “I want to present you two- well mostly to you Sergeant Barnes- my friend Ricardo.” He gestured toward an elderly men in a wheelchair. “His brother served in the war -met the Howling Commando. He was pretty thrilled to meet one of his brother’s hero when I told him about Sam’s new friend !”
“Oh,” he let out, unsure how to act. He shook the man’s trembling hand and tried not to grimace. He felt like an imposter.
“My brother was a huge fan of you, Sergeant. Served with you for a time. He used to tell me story about the Howling Commando when I was still child,” the man explained with a weak voice.
He didn’t dare to ask who his brother was, knowing he wouldn’t remember. He felt guilty about that too, because outside of the Howling Commando, he had met some really good guys while serving. Sam grinned at him, a “mama is proud of you” expression on his insufferable face and he rolled his eyes at his friend. They spent the rest of the evening close to one another, Bucky shamelessly gluing himself to the beta despite the numerous people who kept asking Sam’s attention. His friend was widely appreciated in his community and it showed. There was a light tension building between them as the hours passed, in parallel to a gentle warmth inside his chest that kept growing each time Sam’s arm brushed against his. There was a giddy feeling bubbling inside Bucky, the kind that urged him to preen and coo at his companion and show people he was his friend too, more than that he was his partner, Bucky was his and Sam was his. Obviously, he controlled himself, aware how creepy and embarrassingly omega this behavior would be. The only time he had ever been close to feel like that had been with Dotty, the gentle and pretty alpha he had dated for a while before going to war.
People slowly left and Sam and Bucky found themselves quietly talking on the porch as to not wake Sarah and her kids, a last drink in their hands. The gentle warmth of the alcohol was soothing, Sam’s soft voice and gaze too. He was staring and he didn’t try to hide it ; Sam was staring right back.
I’m in love with you was what was on his mind, on his heart. He didn’t even realize Sam had stopped talking until the man moved closer. He raised his eyes back, who had fell onto his partner’s lips. They met halfway, Sam’s hand cupping his neck and him holding his wrist as they kissed. Sam set a gentle yet firm pattern, meaningful, and Bucky followed with a happy sigh. There was a swift of a tongue against his lips and he melted a little as he let himself fall towards Sam. It was so fucking good and his chest thrummed with what he though was love. They parted to take a breath, studied each other with an enflamed gaze before leaning back again, the gentle caress of Sam’s thumb against his cheek addictive in its kindness. It turned into soft press of lips against lips, again and again until they eventually parted.
He couldn’t help the sighed coo of adoration the escaped his throat and he let his face fall into Sam’s neck, part to hide his embarrassment but mostly because he wanted the contact and he smelt good. He nuzzled against it, smiling when his partner chuckled.
“I’ve wanted to do that for a while, I think,” he commented lightly.
“Yeah ? Me too,” he confessed.
They remained like that for a moment, no words needed. The intimate contact, the smell ; it reminded him of a few months back during his heat. What an idiot he had been, pushing Sam back be cause he had let himself enjoy his affection. There was not any of the shame and fear he had back then.
It felt good to be in love and it felt good to be loved right back.
He followed Sam back inside the house when this one started shivering. He approached the couch and Sam hesitantly called out to him.
“Buck…Do you wanna come with me ? Like, just to sleep but, you know, the couch can’t be very confortable…”
His first instinct was to refuse. But… “I- yeah, ok.” He surprised himself – Sam too couldn’t help the surprised yet happy twitch of eyebrow. Thus he found himself in his partner’s bed, tucked close to his warm body and surrounded by his good and comforting smell. Bucky let himself enjoy this moment a bit before allowing himself to join the realm of dreams, the soft purring emitting from his throat a witness of just how much he appreciated it.
Love was so fucking good – even simple, when you let it be.
ooOOoo
He spent the following morning in a bubble of happiness and fluttering butterflies. Waking up in Sam’s arms had been nothing short of blissful and the quick but gentle greeting kiss, the cheery on top. His morning turned sourer when they put the TV on to Walker’s face grinning stupidly at the cameras. He hadn’t yet forgiven the man’s assholery back at the hospital. He went to change the channel but the subject caught his attention. “Ronal Strauss murdered ; no suspect”
Right on cue, Sam’s phone rang. Strauss was an influent political figure leading the Global Repatriation Council – GRC. It wasn’t why Bucky knew his name, though. The reason was that the man had had ties with HYDRA. Never part of, for what he knew and he had never personally met him as the Soldier but it was still enough to be on his radar.
Sam turned to listen whoever was on the other side of the call while Bucky paid attention to what was being said, curious and unsure if complete lack of care – maybe even satisfaction- meant he was a bad person.
“As Captain America, I’ll do my best to bring the murderer to justice.”
“Do you have any leads yet ?” the interviewer asked.
“I can’t disclose any information, sorry miss.” Despite Walker’s cheery tone, he seemed tense, his smile stiffer than usual. Bucky turned towards Sam as his friend walked back to him. He had a troubled look on his face.
“Rhodey just called me ; he asked me to look into this mess.”
“Why ? I mean this doesn’t concern you and you’re not a detective. Let the police do their work.”
“Well that’s the thing. Nobody’s been put on the case ; the FBI, the CIA… Rhodey asked around and they have order not to investigate.”
“From who ?” he blinked, surprised.
“He doesn’t know. That’s why he’s asking me. Think maybe it’s linked to the Flag Smasher ; Strauss was close to pass a bill concerning the resource’s distribution for the refugee caused by the Blip. Plus, I own him that much.”
He frowned, not sure what to think about the situation. If the Flag Smasher were involved, they should do something but it was a bit thin to conclude the terrorist were involved just because the guy had a plan they disliked. As a politician, Strauss probably had tones of enemies ; plus, Bucky felt like they should focus on Rogers. But he knew his partner and the man wouldn’t refuse to help his friend.
He sighed. “I’ll come with you.”
Sam smiled with crinkles around his eyes that made him melt and he found himself smiling back like a moron. The beta’s smile widened, showing teeth and he pulled him into a kiss. He responded in kind, his lips pliant under his as he placed his hands around Sam’s waist.
“Thank you”, Sam muttered between two kisses. Bucky made an intelligible sound and pulled him back against him, holding him close as Sam’s hand gripped his hair, hard enough to make him see stars of pleasure. He moaned a bit, the sound engulfed by the other’s mouth and he sighed happily, the hot press of Sam’s body too fucking good and-
“Whoah !”
The jumped apart, whipping around to see Sarah standing around the corner, her stunned expression quickly turning into a sly one.
“Sure didn’t expect to wake up and witness my brother molesting his boyfriend ; but I can say you two sure took your time.”
“Oh my god Sarah shut up,” Sam mumbled as Bucky cleared his throat, his cheek warm. Sarah laughed loudly at their embarrassment.
They explained they had to leave and two hours later, they were in a plane to Washington. Bucky realized with a bit of surprise that he would miss Sarah and the kids. He knew the peacefulness of the last few days couldn’t last, the looming threat of HYDRA, Roger and the Flag Smasher too prominent to ignore for long. Still, he had been able to disconnect from those for a moment, for the first time since longs years.
They searched information on their victim on the plane, sharing when they found something interesting. He explained Strauss’s link to HYDRA, to which Sam made a disappointed face. “I actually though he was doing a pretty good job. Guess I was wrong.”
Strauss had several project of law waiting for which he could have been assassinated. The biggest one was about the crisis caused by the Blip, the Distribution Law. His idea was to tax the people who weren’t bliped and share their resources more equally with the one who were blipped to help those last one to rebuild their life. He had also proposed to send back the immigrants who had been accepted in the USA during the Blip due to half the population being gone but now weren’t wanted anymore. They found out he had 2 daughters and one of them, Jenna Strauss, lived in Washington ; she apparently had been very close to her father if the many pictures of them both they found on social media were to be believed. Sam asked Torres to find her address and when they landed, they had the information.
She lived in a private residence and it was obvious she was just as rich as her father. They rang at her door and while they waited for her to open, Bucky though he felt like a detective he saw on bad TV show.
“Yes ? Who are you ?” Jenna Strauss greeted them, wary and obviously tired.
“Hello miss. My name is Sam Wilson and this is my partner James Barnes. We’re here to talk about your father.”
She bit her lips, anger on her face. “I know your face. You’re an Avengers. If you’re here to talk shit about my father, you can get out here.”
“Wait !” Sam exclaimed when she made a move to close the door. “Why would we do that ? We’re here to investigate his death,” he explained hastily.
“I’m not stupid ; nor are you, I guess, which is why I’m pretty sure at some point you must have stumbled upon his past affiliation to HYDRA. So tell me, why would an Avenger care about his death ?” she asked bitterly.
Sam looked surprised and Bucky stepped in. “You’re right, we know about his past with HYDRA. And while it’s not something we see in a good light, it doesn’t mean we’re here to insult a deceased man. Like my partner said, we’re here to understand what happened and you seem to have information that might interest us. Will you be willing to explain to us a little bit more inside ?”, he soothed in a rare show of diplomacy.
She eyed him but eventually sighed and let them enter. She motioned to her couch, where they sat, Jenna in front of them.
“Thank you. Do you know if your father had any enemies willing to kill him ?” Sam began.
She snorted but it was more sad than scornful. “He had many. Other politicians, people who were not blipped unwilling to share their money, HYDRA… Take your pick.”
“Do you know if any member of HYDRA tried to contact him lately ?” he asked, the image of Captain HYDRA and his goons behind him in Madripore surging in his mind. It was a though that had developed in his mind for the last few days, the uneasy certitude that Roger would continue to recruit. Former members, sure, but also new one. There was plenty of greedy and violent people blinded by power who would accept, even more so after the Blip and the difficult social situation it had brought.
His inquiry seemed to anger the woman as she glared at them, standing tall. “If anyone tried to contact him ? Yes, mister Barnes !” she exclaimed. “For years, my father has received death threat from his former colleagues, HYDRA. My father has his wrong, HYDRA is one of them. But he spent the last years making up for this, making good around him. His work with the GRC saved countless of people from poverty and homelessness ; and a lot of people criticized him for his Distribution Law’s project but he was trying to help while nobody did anything but complain.” She breathed in before adding with a voice filled with tears. “He was a good man.”
They stood silent, letting her regain composure as Bucky wondered about her last statement. Was he ? Was trying to change and do good actions enough to make up for allying oneself with an evil organization like HYDRA ?
Sam tried to offer a kind word but she waved it away. “He received death threat monthly if not weekly by HYDRA. But they never contacted him more than that.”
He felt his chest constrict, thinking about just what Jenna had said. “You said they have been threatning him for years ?”. She nodded and the glance he shared with Sam confirmed they had the same anger, fear and tiredness over the realization that once again, HYDRA never had been really destroyed if they had been sending letter to a dude for years.
“Why did he never went to the police ?” Sam asked, curious to which Jenna stared at him flatly.
“Great idea. Let’s remind everyone he was in cahoots with HYDRA, make people suspicious of him while he tries to have his ideas heard. Anger the terrorist enough so that they actually follow through their threat. Plus, the police had always been sooo helpful when it comes to HYDRA ; just like the Avengers, am I right ?”
Ouch. Sam grimaced, embarrassed. “Yeah, ok, I get it,” he grumbled.
They asked detail about how he had been killed but she didn’t know much more than the media did. Inside his office, the door forced open and beaten to death. When they left, she seemed less angry and more tired. They headed to a fast food to grab a burger and if it wasn’t near as good as Sarah’s cooking, it settled his hunger nicely.
“We should call Walker, see if he got any other information about Strauss. He’s supposed to investigate the case, after all.”
Bucky complained a bit but he eventually caved ; any information was good to take, even when it came from morons.
“Sam ?”
“Hi, Walker. I’ve seen you’re working Strauss’s case ; I am too so I though we’d shared what we have.”
There was a long silence, enough for Sam to look at the phone quizzically. “Walker ? You’re there ?”
“I’m not.”
“What ?”
“I’m not working Strauss’s case,” he announced.
“You’re… not ? That’s what they say on the news ? What you said too,” Sam added with a frown.
“I know. But I’m not. I’ve been told not to. Apparently it’s not necessary.”
“What ? You too ? Who told you that ?”
“I don’t know, okay ? I take order from my superior, and my superior take order from his.”
“That’s bullshit ! They told you not to look into their shady business and you just… obeyed ?” Bucky couldn’t help but intervene.
“Look, I don’t like it but it’s what it is. Plus, I’ve heard the guy was HYDRA so that’s probably why. Not a big loss”
He growled. That’s why Walker would never be Captain America. Sam looked deep in though and it was Walker who eventually talked again.
“I’ve got information for you. A buddy of mine work at the CIA ; they learned the identity of several of the Flag Smasher. Their leader is named Karli Morgenthau, I’ll send you the files, though we don’t have a lot of information. They have been sighed on American’s floor 2 days ago, in Washington.”
“That can’t be a coincidence,” Sam murmured.
“I’m not supposed to tell you this, so a thank you would be appreciated.”
He scoffed and glared at the phone like the man could see it. Sam, ever the good guys, actually did.
“The situation is pretty bad,” Sam declared after hanging up.
It was a way to say it. First they learned that HYDRA never left completely, even after their second supposedly destruction, now the Flag Smasher were there and would probably make a mess.
“You think they killed Strauss ? Or HYDRA did ?”
“Honestly, I’m not sure the both are distinct anymore.” Bucky commented. “Maybe it’s the Flag Smasher on the principle of their morals ; these guys want the exact opposite that Strauss wanted. Or maybe they acted on Captain HYDRA’s order. ”
He frowned, thinking fast. “Strauss must have been a thorn to HYDRA giving all the threat he received. The HYDRA leftover obviously was too weak to act sooner, else we would have heard of them sooner. But now that they have a new leader, a new strength ? They don’t have to stop themselves at mere threat.”
“That mean Roger is uniting all HYDRA’s forces.” Sam concluded. “But what’s more worrying is the fact everybody received the order to stand down on Strauss’s case. To be able to do that, you need to be high up the in the government. Buck, I think someone from HYDRA is pulling threads from there. It can’t be a coincidence.”
He closed his eyes. Of course he was right. First Pierce, now that ? It felt like a never ending cycle and Bucky was tired of this infinite battle against his abusers. He was scared, too, because Rogers wasn’t one he could underestimate and their shared past was something he dreaded to confront. The man was planning something and he didn’t know what. Was Strauss important ? An obstacle to me removed ? Or were the Flag Smasher regaining their independence from HYDRA and the murder was their action ? They had 8 super soldiers, they could.
A beginning of an idea was forming inside his head. “We need to find out whose HYDRA member is hiding in the government. Letting him being in such a place of power is dangerous but Sam, if we find him, we can also find the Captain.”
“Yeah, I know,” Sam nodded and he stared intensely.
“It’s really important.”
“I know Buck,” the man affirmed, surprised by his insistence upon this obvious fact.
“Good. Because I know someone who would be able to help us,” he stated.
“Really ? Who’s that ?”
He stared at him, searching for the right words. Sam sensed his hesitation and before he could even answer, he scowled. “Hell no. You’re not talking about Rumlow, right ?”
“Isn’t it obvious ? Come on, Sam”, he added as the man was starting to protest, “if anyone knows who belong to HYDRA, it’s him !”
“Oh yeah, because he’ll willingly tell us everything we want to know,” he said sarcastically.
“He will if I’m the one asking,” he declared with more confidence that he felt.
But god he wanted to see the alpha and he truly believed he could help them. He had been pretty high in the command chain as STRIKE team leader and unofficial handler of the Winter Soldier after Rogers's death, so he would have the information they were looking. Now to if he wanted to… Sam glared at him but he held strong. Eventually he rolled his eyes.
“Fuck. Ok. But I’m coming with you.”
“I don’t think-“
“Buck, that’s non negotiable.”
He knew not to pick a battle he couldn’t win so he shut his mouth. He was ready to go right now but Sam scowled at him and decided they’ll go tomorrow. Which was a wise idea, given the fact it was getting late and they couldn’t really show themselves, especially Bucky, and speak to a known terrorist unannouced. They went to a hotel close to the prison, Sam calling some friends who’d have contact inside the prison to enable them to speak with Rumlow.
“Hello,” Bucky greeted the receptionist who looked like she’s rather be anywhere but here. “We’re looking for…”
He let his phrase in suspension, he though leaving his brain. Two rooms ? One ? He glanced at Sam, who was still on the phone. He wanted to sleep with Sam - just to sleep ! Would the man find it weird if he only took one room ? Or was he expected to now that they had kissed ? But they hadn’t really defined anything… The woman cleared her throat noisily.
“One room please,” he rushed out, fighting not to squirm awkwardly under her stare.
She gave him a key and he turned toward Sam to lead them to their room, hoping he was acting more confident than he felt. God, had he really one day been a smooth flirt ? Luckily his partner didn’t seemed put out by the prospect of sharing, even when it was clear there only was one bed.
He took a shower after Sam and sat himself next to the man on the bed who was busy scrolling through his phone.
“What’re you looking at ?” he asked curiously.
He shrugged. “Nice bar. Figured we could go out, it’s not very late.”
He hummed in agreement, spreading his legs comfortably, his back against the head of the bed as he peered at the man’s phone. They lazily watched a few address, Sam’s weight against his side a nice feeling. An add with Walker’s face on it popped up and he pouted under Sam’s expectant yet amused glance. He held his tongue but it made his though wander as they continued to scroll in a comfortable silence.
“What would you have done ?” he asked quietly. “If you were Captain America. About Strauss, about the stand off order.”
His partner hummed, taking his time to think about it. “I’d like to think I would dig around anyway. The situation is too suspicious not too. And… that’s what Steve would have done. He went against Pierce and the government several time when he judged it necessary, even when it came with great risk and difficulties. That’s one thing I respected about him ; he had the gut to follow through his moral despite everything.”
Bucky found himself smiling softly at remembering his friend. “Yeah, that’s a good description.” Then he chuckled. “If young me knew Steve had another best friend, it would have made me go crazy.”
Sam snorted. “Possessive much, young Barnes ?”
“You bet.”
In the end, they didn’t go out. They stayed here, talking on the bed and simply enjoying each other presence. It was nice and as Sam put on a bad TV show, Bucky was struck by the domesticity of it all. A few years ago, never had he believed he’s get to have this.
He loved it.
He loved Sam.
The man turned toward him, a questioning look upon his face. Searching. Finding, if the softening of his expression was anything to go by.
“Come here,” the beta whispered, enveloping him with his arms and tugging him upon him. He let himself be pulled, meeting the man halfway in a kiss.
Sam was a great kisser, a passionate one. He bit back a moan when his knee dug between his legs ; he pulled back to breath before burying his nose inside Sam’s neck. He breathed him in and before he knew it, he was licking and suckling on the tender skin there. His lover made a pleased sound in response and a jolt of pleasure coursed his body when Sam’s hands found their way under his shirt to gently caress his body. He put his hand upon the man’s abdomen in response, the skin warm and firm under his palm.
He pulled back, his tight straddling Sam’s waist as he admired his lover. His body was truly a work of art, he noted with a satisfied purr. Shirt opened revealing a beautiful, chiseled chest, lips kissed red and neck marked as his, the blooming of lust and reverence that exploded in his body was unavoidable when above such a lovely angel. He met the man’s eyes for a few heated seconds, the same yearning and desire reflecting in his pupils. The beta’s hand continued their slow exploration, hands slowly cupping his ass through his cloth before squeezing firmly but gently. He couldn’t help but grind forward, moaning just a bit at the way his jeans rubbed against his now hard cock.
“Fuck, Buck…” Sam sighed with pleasure, the noise making something in his chest grow even warmer. In his pants too and if the hard and hot pressure against his ass was what he though it was, he wasn’t the only one.
He cupped his chest and moved his hand up to settle against the beat’s throat. He didn’t press – never. He just caressed, leaned down to kiss him again and cupped his cheek.
“You’re so beautiful,” the omega mumbled against his lips. He meant it in so many way, too.
Sam straightened up and pulled him even closer against his body, his legs bent apart grounding nicely into his ass. His hand came around his waist, slithered down in a caress at the hem of his pants, fingertips shyly stroking underneath.
“Is it okay…?” he asked breathlessly and Bucky loved him just a little bit more for that.
“God, yes Sam, please,” he exhaled out in a breath.
His hand joined Sam’s, tugging the man’s own pant open. Their hand met around their length, Bucky’s mostly around Sam’s leading one. The lazy caresses of discovery turned into firm and long tug and he didn’t try to hide the moan in his throat or the curl of his body at the absolute delight his lover was giving him.
God, just how long had it been ?
He came embarrassingly fast but he couldn’t find it in himself to care. Sam joined him not long after and he curled around him, his body lax and happy. He sighed contently when his lover’s arm snaked around his waist and maintained him close. He met his soft brown eyes and another wave of adoration swelled up close to his heart. They kissed again, soft press of lips against lips. They eventually had to clean themselves but it wasn’t long before they were back together in the bed.
He slept very well.
Notes:
Finally some comfort ! Even a bit of smut (very light, I don't know how to write anything else).
I hope you enjoyed this chapter ! I'll probably post this week-end the next one, so stay tuned !
Chapter 15
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The ride to the prison was spent in a weird mix between a loving fuzzy atmosphere and apprehension. Sam drove and Bucky kept glancing at him, smiling at the reminder of the last evening ; then he though about Rumlow and he sank inside his own head, gaze on the horizon.
The soft exhilaration and contentment he felt upon the idea of meeting again his former Commander felt like a treason to Sam. With the perspective of time and a clear head, he realized he had once been in love with the man – or something close. The soft feeling of adoration and safety hadn’t completely faded, especially with how touched and grateful he felt about the fact that the alpha had come to help him – and was in prison because of him. He had shared a bond for years in hell that he just couldn’t forget that easily. It couldn’t compare with what he had with Sam – the echo of love he once held for his superior had been born from the man’s care, not his character. It wasn’t the all-consuming flame of adoration for his partner, his heart, his compassion, his sassiness, the goodness he brought to the world – to Bucky.
But it was still there even though it felt unfair to compare a former terrorist from HYDRA to Sam Wilson, however much he had once loved said terrorist.
“Do you think it could be Ross ?” he asked, half to stop his spiraling though, half in a genuine enquiry. Sam hummed in question. “Working for HYDRA, I mean.”
It didn’t really fit Bucky idea’s of Ross but the man had been a constant pain for them and he made no secret of his interest for super soldier. Plus, he was one of the only one who had the power to pull the heavy strings that were pulled around Strauss’s case.
“I don’t know… Honestly, as much as I hate Ross, I don’t see him working for HYDRA. The man wants power, sure, but I don’t think he dig at HYDRA’s ideology even a little bit. He’s too selfish to care on a universal level and he’s too powerful to need or want to work for them for any other reason. Plus, I find it hard to believe we wouldn’t have found anything on him in HYDRA’s file.”
He nodded in agreement to his partner’s argument. They could still ask Rumlow but it didn’t sound probable. They arrived a bit before noon, the grim and heavily guarded building making him feel uneasy. A young lad greeted Sam with a smile before casting Bucky a nervous glance, obviously recognizing him. He didn’t let the bother show on his face.
“The Falcon ! Hi sir, I’m a big fan,” he exclaimed, ignoring Bucky which wasn’t a bad thing. “Julian told me you would pass by. What can I do for you ?”
“We are here to talk to a prisoner, Brock Rumlow.”
“Huh, HYDRA’s scum,” he commented with a disgusted grimace and Bucky had to contain a growl. But then the man added : “I’m sorry, sir, he’s not here. He’s been evacuated to the military hospital two days ago.”
“What ! What happened ?” he exclaimed, too horrified to care about the glare he received.
The guard shrugged. “Another attempt to kill him, this one a closer call than the last. I just hope they do a better job next time,” he confessed with a knowing look addressed to Sam who frowned coldly.
“Watch your mouth, asshole !” Bucky snarled, furious. “It’s a human being you’re talking about !”
“Ah ! Human being ? Like you, you mean ? My brother was killed by HYDRA’s scum and there is nothing human about-“
“Hey ! It’s enough.” Sam cut abruptly and firmly. “Can you give me the name of the hospital ?”
He shrugged once again. “I don’t know.”
They left the building soon after, a storm of red hot anger and icy fear swirling inside his head, his heart pounding at the revelation. To be evacuated to the hospital when in prison ? It needed to be serious.
He inhaled, realizing his former Commander could be dead at the moment they were speaking. Oh god, and Bucky hadn’t even been able to talk to him since he had become something other than the Soldier. Why hadn’t he been made aware of this ? It was two fucking days ago ! No, more importantly – why was Sam not aware of this ? Sam was investigating the resurgence of HYDRA, any new development on current or former member should be shared with him. So why ? Why-
“Bucky. Breath, it’s okay,” his partner called, his tone briskier than usual. He seemed to realize because he winced before continuing in a softer tone. “They would know if he was dead, it would open one more cell for them.”
He snorted, “yeah, because he seemed to fucking care a lot.”
They remained in silence for a few seconds, Sam observing him quietly, hands on the wheel.
“Do you really care that much ?” he asked softly after a moment.
His breath caught inside his throat and he diverted his gaze to the road, ashamed to feel his eyes become hot. Luckily Sam didn’t push the subject. He didn’t call him disgusting, didn’t call him a traitor or a mad man. He just seemed sad, which was worst.
After a couple miles, when his emotion was under wrap and his pain controlled inside a heavy weight inside his chest, he addressed the problem.
“You should have been made aware of that, Sam.”
“I know.”
“Fucking Walker must have known,” he commented drily – angrily but Sam shook his head.
“He would have told me, man. He told me for the Flag Smasher in Washington, he has no reason to keep it to himself.”
He reluctantly admitted Sam was right. In all logic, it was the HYDRA plant in the government once again.
“Do you think it’s linked with Strauss’s murder ?”
“Rumlow is a known defector from HYDRA ; that alone put a huge target on his back, both from HYDRA and hater of HYDRA. He was too high ranked not to possess sensible information ; he’s a threat, especially to the member belonging to the government. He knows if his identity is leaked, he loses everything.” He hummed, thoughtful. “Plus, we didn’t have the time to ask him last time but I wonder if he doesn’t have information on Captain HYDRA and the new emergence of HYDRA, with the years he spent in Madripore.”
“Okay. Well, talking to him sure would be enlightening but we’ll have to find something else for now. Honestly I was thinking of Zemo,” Sam added hesitantly with a glance in his direction.
He nodded but his though were elsewhere. Because Sam might abandon Rumlow for now, but Bucky wouln’t. If the man returned to prison, he would eventually be killed without anybody knowing and that’s something he couldn’t let happen.
So he began to plan.
ooOOoo
They were still riding in silence, focused and mulling around the tense situation they were in. Sam couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling he had since learning the government’s intent on turning a blind eye to everything concerning HYDRA – on keeping him in the dark. He felt vulnerable, the sensation of being trapped in a vice one he wouldn’t be able to shake until he’d have found the HYDRA’s mold.
A strident ringing shattered the silence. He wouldn’t normally answer his phone while driving but it displayed Pepper Stark’s name and it was too unusual to ignore. He put it on speaker.
“Pepper ?”
“Hello, Sam,” she responded, and the faint shake of her voice in the usually perfectly composed woman rang alarm bell inside his brain.
“What is it ? Are you okay ?”
“Yes, I’m okay. It’s Rodhey, he…” his breath caught in his throat, terrified to hear her next words. “Someone tried to kill him. His car – it was rigged with explosives. He’s fine, he’s in the hospital – the doctor are expecting a full recovery. Tony’s emergency protective suit saved his life but…” Her voice broke. “I’m sorry. It’s just… it’s been a shock.”
“Gosh, don’t apologize,” he answered, as much shaken than the woman. “Shit,” he mumbled as he rubbed his face under Bucky’s worried stare.
“He talked to me about your investigation on Strauss’s death and his suspicion the government had willingly shut down any search on the topic. He wanted me to call you if anything happened to him. I hoped… I hoped you could help us find who was behind this assassination’s attempt.”
“Yes I- of course. I’ll come. I already have an idea on who it could be,” he exchanged a glance with Bucky, the same idea in their mind. Rodhey sticking his nose in HYDRA’s business hadn’t pass by unnoticed. “I’ll be there in three hours, okay ? Text me the address of the hospital.”
“I’ll send you a jet.”
“I- ok, thanks. And Pepper ? Keep him safe, they could try again.”
He could hear her ruthless smile when she replied, “He’s got the whole power of Stark Industry protecting him. I’d like to see them try again.”
He rode faster – faster than he should but right now he didn’t care. HYDRA – because who else ?- had dared and tried to kill one of his few friend and that made him mad with anger. With guilt too, because he knew Rodhey had kept a close eyes on those matter because of Sam. He hadn’t given the full information Bucky had gave him about Captain HYDRA but he still had share his existence which was enough to be a target if the wrong crowd learned about it.
Sam expected Bucky to follow him in New York to see Rodhey – and hell, because that’s where he lived but the man declined. “It’s just…I’m not sure Pepper would be happy to see me, especially in those circumstances. Go, I’ll pack our stuff and meet you in New York later. I have a few things to settle here before anyway.”
He didn’t think much of Bucky “few things to settle” but he should have. He raced to the local airport where Pepper had arranged the jet for him. While the engine was incredibly luxurious, he wasn’t in a frame of mind to enjoy it. He arrived in a hurry in the hospital and was indicated to Rodhey’s private room after a cautious verification of his ID which he appreciated. Pepper was waiting for him, nodding in greeting.
“Hi. He’s okay ?”
“Yes, he’s stable. He hits his head and a few debris pierced through his abdomen before the suit could envelop him but he had surgery and it went well. The most concerning and why he still hasn’t woke up is the smoke inhalation ; it’s a light suit deployed from his wrist, meant for body protection but not air mask.”
They went inside the room and his heart clenched at the fragile sight of his friend in the bed.
“He has oxygen and his life isn’t threatened ; we just need to wait for him to wake up.”
“Good, that’s good,” he exhaled. Strauss, Rumlow, Rodhey… it just didn’t end. “Did he say anything ?”
“He tried to pass a message through the paramedic who brought him in ; it wasn’t fully coherent and she didn’t understand most of it but she though it might be more than craziness given the fact he’s military. He apparently said and I quote : “he has an ally inside” and he mumbled about a “traitorous old geezer”.”
“We learned yesterday that HYDRA had a member inside the government. Rodhey probably discovered who it was, that’s why he was targeted. It’s the man we are trying to find.”
“Any lead yet ?” she questioned ferociously.
“Expect that he is an old geezer, none yet. But we know who might know, we’re working on it. I’m working with Bucky,” he added before her questioning look.
“You catch this disgusting leech, Wilson and I’ll bring him to justice,” she ordered imperiously. He nodded, more than determinate to do so. “I can’t stay much longer ; Morgan is worrying and Stark Industry needs me. Don’t concern yourself with Rodhey’s safety. I’ll keep him safe and you focus on arresting the man responsible for this.”
“Yes ma’am.”
He remained with the sleeping man a few hours, talking to him and then calling Torres to keep him informed. He though about informing Walker but he felt a bitter anger towards the Captain. Rodhey had been brave enough to listen to his guts and it had almost cost his life. Walker had been told not to investigate and that had been it. Never before had he felt the man less deserving of the shield than now ; and maybe he was unfair to the man, maybe it was his stress that made him feel that way but he wasn’t sure either and didn’t care. Towards Steve too, for leaving, because he knew the man would have known what to do and Sam just didn’t. Except to talk with Zemo, hoping the man who had spent years studying HYDRA would know – and more importantly would share - something.
How brilliant of an idea.
If not that, finding where was Rumlow, hoping he was good enough to talk. Either option tired him.
Then of course it paled against the hatred that simmered inside Sam for one Captain HYDRA. Witnessing the man sullying his friend’s legacy had been unpleasant enough but learning just how much he had hurt Bucky ? It had created in him a hatred and rage he wasn’t used to feel. He hadn’t expressed to his lover just how much resentment and wrath he held against the blond for his unhuman and obsessive treatment of him because comfort had been what his friend needed but it existed nonetheless.
His though had spiraled late at night, Bucky in his arms, about this. About how much he loved the omega and how gentle underneath all the grumpiness he was. How shy he was about intimacy and how Roger was partly to blame. How could someone abuse a human being this much, especially the man now in his bed, so fucking sweet and deserving to be adored and… Sam couldn’t understand. And the someone being an alternate version of Steve, Steve who had cherished Bucky as much as Sam, was the killing blow.
Now HYDRA went against another one of his friend and he didn’t exactly know how the Captain was linked – if he was the one who ordered the assassination, if he had just enabled the HYDRA mole to act or if he wasn’t even aware because Rodhey was less than a fly to him. He didn’t know but Sam held him responsible nonetheless and he would make him pay for this.
He eventually left the hospital. Pepper had proposed him to sleep at the Tower but he declined, intent on joining Bucky. He bought food on his way to the man’s house, the evening not there yet but coming fast. He rang at his door and his friend took his sweet time to open his door.
“Sam !” he exclaimed and he frowned, immediately spotting the nervousness.
“Are you okay ?” he asked as he entered.
“Yes, yes. Huh. Okay, wait. Sam, before you say anything, you need to understand I had every good reason to bring him, okay ?”
“What ? You’re not making any sense, man.”
“Don’t be angry. It was for the better, he-“
“What the heck did you do ?”
Bucky shut his mouth and his mouth pulled in a grimace as he obviously though very carefully about his next words. Which sure as hell didn’t reassure Sam.
“You may as well just spit it out, Soldier.” Called out a nasty voice he didn’t expect to ever hear in Bucky’s apartment.
He wiped around and sure enough Rumlow’s ugly mug greeted him with a sneer.
“Oh hell no- you’re going back to prison this moment !” he exclaimed furiously but was stopped by Bucky’s arm blocking his way. He turned his glare toward the omega. “Are you fucking crazy ? He’s a criminal Bucky !”
“Sam please, listen ! We need him, he’s the only one who can tell us-“
“I don’t care ! He’s supposed to be in prison for a good reason and you sure as hell aren’t supposed to be near him ! You think Walker and the government wont put two and two together ?”
“The government would let him die without doing anything and I don’t give a fuck about Walker !”
“You should at least care about what I fucking tell you ! Fuck, Buck, you could be sent back in prison for that !” He turned back to the mercenary. “If you tried anything I swear to god-“
“Sam, please ! Please, listen to me okay ?” it was the softer voice that calmed him down enough to be willing to hear Bucky’s reasoning. He gritted his teeth but eventually nodded at him to continue. “He knows who our mole inside the government is. He already told me he would share his identity,” he explained with a glance towards the man who rolled his eyes in response but didn’t deny.
“And he couldn’t he tell you that in the hospital ?” he asked sardonically.
“Well, he wasn’t much awake when I found him,” he stammered an excuse. “They would have killed him Sam, you know this… I found a HYDRA plant in the hospital. If she hadn’t killed him, the prisoners would have the moment he was back in his cell.”
He didn’t answer, conscious enough that it was the truth.
“How did you even find him ?”
He shrugged. ”Wasn’t hard. I searched through the hospital nearest the prison, infiltrated as a doctor. The white coat suits me,” he tried a weak joke that didn’t pull a smile out of Sam. “He was barely guarded, Sam. They were just waiting for someone to finish the job,” he pleaded.
“Maybe someone should have,” he bit meanly. He didn’t mean it, not really. He didn’t condone cold blooded murder, especially since Rumlow was useful to them but he was angry and his smug burned face didn’t appease him. He glared one last time at the man for good measure before sighing heavily.
He get it. Bucky was right, Rumlow had a death sentence the moment he walked back to prison and the government wouldn’t lift their finger. And the truth was, after what happened to Strauss, to Rodhey… They needed any information they could and the mercenary had what they needed. It was just so infuriating, that this man could get a second chance when he didn’t deserve it. Because Sam wanted to keep him locked somewhere until they found a safer place to detain him like the Raft but realistically he knew it wouldn’t happen. He couldn’t trust anyone right now to entrust Rumlow’s arrest and the moment he called for a transfer to the Raft was the moment they would show on Bucky’s door and demand explanation. And he just couldn’t do that to his friend.
“Ok, we’ll talk.”
He took in the man’s state, assessing for his threat level. He’d been pulled out of the hospital and it showed, the wounds from Madripore’s fight probably still not completely healed. His face had a nasty bruise and the heavy bandage around his stomach told him he had been gut to near death. There was a wound around his throat too and obviously someone had tried to slit his throat without full success. No, right now he wasn’t a threat and he was aware Rumlow would never try to join HYDRA again. Still he had crimes to pay for and if his mercenary work targeted mostly other criminals and gangs – Sam had made research – he was still acting against the law.
But what made it hard for him, because Sam knew how to work with criminals, was Bucky. How despite being full glare and smug grimace for Sam, the alpha managed to look at his lover with wonder and honest to god tenderness. Their relationship was fucked up – both way. Rumlow had acted as one of his captor, gaslighted him for years yet he cared for Bucky – and Sam could see that he did, he just didn’t understand how you could love yet manipulate so cruelly someone. Bucky on the other hand was biased by the care the man had given him while in hell but this care didn’t made him a person deserving of any loyalty. The indulgent, worried glance Bucky shared with the alpha spoke of attachment and it settled heavily in his gut.
The last and more insidious reason why watching Bucky and Rumlow was hard and that he would never voice aloud was their bond as alpha and omega. Not a physical bond, luckily, but alphas and omegas shared an instinct and pheromones betas would never. Bucky and his bond was special in many other way, he was perfectly confident in his and the man’s beginning relationship ; and he sure as hell didn’t believe alpha and omega should settle with each other. But he still was envious of this one link he would never share when Rumlow would.
He reigned in his emotions. Clenched his fist, sat on the sofa and indicated the mercenary to do the same – more so that he wouldn’t have to crane his neck to look up at him than anything.
“Talk. Who is the HYDRA member pulling the string from the government ?”
“It’s Sean Douglas. A pretentious asshole.”
He knew this name though he wasn’t familiar with the old man.
“Okay. How do I know you’re telling the truth ?”
He snorted. “I’m not an idiot, Wilson. I’m pretty sure Douglas is the guy who ordered my death and I’m keen to return the favor. And I want the Captain to be stopped, the Sold- Barnes explained to me you were hopping to locate him through Douglas.”
Good enough for him. “Do you know where-“
“They settled in an old base near Baltimore. Douglas lives there, that’s probably why. You hear thing when surrounded by HYDRA member,” he added, sensing his next question.
“Give us the coordinates,” he commended.
The man frowned, not pleased with his tone. “Your mother never told you to be polite, Wilson ?”
“Don’t speak about my mother, asshole,” he growled.
He chuckled with a mean grin but eventually wrote what they wanted.
“Thank you Brock,” Bucky declared with more gentleness he deserved.
“You’re welcome sweetheart.”
He glared at him, hard. “The fuck did you call him ?” he growled.
Bucky grimaced, uneasy. “It’s okay, let’s focus on what we need, okay ?”
“Asshole,” he muttered at the man’s proud smirk.
“Do you have any idea how much people are inside this base ?” Bucky asked.
“No. Roger was initially regrouping his troupes in Madripore so the one in Baltimore are probably former members who escaped the fall out of project Insight and kept working for Douglas when Pierce died.”
“Okay. Buck, I’ll contact Torres and Jack. We’ll attack the base the moment we have enough information about it, we can’t let Douglas make any more damage. You…” he turned towards the alpha. He swallowed down his anger and spit out the words that tasted like sand on his tongue. “Get out here.”
“Wait Sam, he’s still hurt-“
“No Buck, I’m not letting him stay near you – near anyone else to be honest. He’ll take care of himself,” he affirmed with a cold glare.
The man seemed to hesitate, glancing at Bucky with an unreadable expression and his hand unconsciously moved towards his wrapped up abdomen. Yet he stood up and nodded with what he tried to make appear as a confident expression but Sam knew wasn’t.
“I don’t need help, I’m a big boy,” he assured with a smirk. “I’ll clear your air, Wilson.”
“Do not believe for a moment you’re free, Rumlow. You’re just not the priority. The moment this mess is settled, I’ll track your ass down and will put you back in prison where you belong.”
“Yeah, yeah. Sure, you can try.”
He turned to Bucky and under his neutral stare, he could detect the faintest trace of sadness. It upset him but ignored it as best as he could.
“Soldier…” his hand made a move towards his face. Sam took a warning step forwards, the alpha sneered but his hand fell back. “Take care of you and don’t let Roger ever hurt you again.”
They stared at each other, a communication Sam couldn’t hope to understand. He avoided his gaze, pained despite himself. Then Bucky took Rumlow’s hand and nuzzled his cheek against his wrist. It was a brief and chaste scenting. It still hurt. Bucky pulled back and the mercenary looked stricken. He opened his mouth… closed it without sound, eyes blinking rapidly before clearing his throat.
He turned around and left the apartment with one last longing stare toward the omega. Left both alone, in silence, Bucky wouldn’t meet his eyes.
“I’m going to shower.” Sam announced blankly and closed the door shut behind himself.
ooOOoo
It pained him to see Sam’s hurt expression. He felt like an asshole, scenting Rumlow right in front of his new lover. Scenting wasn’t reserved for lover but it still spoke of closeness he shouldn’t demonstrate with someone Sam saw as an enemy. Yet he had acted without thinking, the necessity to part with something meaningful, a last proof of affection too present to ignore. He needed to apologize. His relationship with him was too precious to be tainted by unsaid on Bucky’s part. He hadn’t worked months with Raynor, hadn’t took Sam’s second chance after the month of silence to screw it once again. No, he would offer a proper explanation and ignore the cowardly voice in his head screaming about shame and fear.
He though back of his moment with his former Commander. Despite his guilt toward Sam, the encounter had still brought him peace, a sense of closure.
They walked through his door, Bucky carrying half Rumlow’s weight who groaned in pain as he put him down on his bed. His state wasn’t life threatening anymore but the man was in pain, Bucky had to pull out the morphine drip to get him out of the hospital. He was a bit more lucid than in the hospital, which was a good thing if they hoped to gain any information out of him.
The prospect of confronting him was intimidating and Bucky half entertained the idea of leaving the room but he held himself back. Letting a known criminal without any surveillance was unresponsible, even for him, same as leaving an injured man. So he sat rigidly at the end of the bed and glanced at the alpha. This one was already staring at him, the veil of confusion and pain from earlier pulled to let a piercing curious and searching gaze. He straightened up with the faint habit of standing proudly at attention for his Commander. He should explain his presence, ask question – but he found his mouth too dry to speak.
“Why am I here, Soldier ?” the alpha asked firmly but without harshness.
“I- We have questions.” He didn’t develop further. He should but he didn’t, just stared. The other man stared back, studying him in silent contemplation. He tried not to fidget.
“Are you okay ?” he settled for.
The man didn’t answer. Instead, he asked quietly : “Can you come closer ? I wont hurt you,” he added, as if sensing Bucky’s hesitation. He knew that ; he sat next to the man.
“I’m glad to see you’re okay,” he declared in a rare soft tone. Something loosened inside his chest and he exhaled, the confirmation that Rumlow still cared painfully good to hear. Memory of soft words and touches, gentle caress and kisses along his body flooded his head and he had a sudden urge to weep in relief that it wasn’t all lost, that it hadn’t been a lie, at least towards the Soldier. Did he see the Soldier now ? Bucky Barnes ? Both ?
His scarred hand reached for Bucky’s cheek, a thumb swiping gently at his skin. “I like the new hair.”
“Yeah ?”
“Yeah,” he affirmed with a smile. He turned his nose to Rumlow’s wrist, taking in the scent of cedar and what reminded him of whisky. Nuzzled there, letting the omegan’s part of his brain take over for a few seconds. The alpha let out the faintest sound of happiness and the pheromone turned sweet with contentment. This moment of connection to the man that had once meant so much for him was blissful.
Rumlow’s hand skidded to cup his neck, thumb scratching his almost healed gland. Goose-bumps erupted all along his arms and he couldn’t tell if there were from pleasure or unease. An arm snaked around his waist and pulled him closer to the man. He let himself be pulled but abruptly put a hand to Rumlow’s chest when he tried to kiss him.
“No.”
He blinked in surprise and confusion, then realization and hurt. He let go of his neck.
“You’re not my Soldier anymore, are you ?” he asked with a sadness not entirely dissimulated.
“No,” he confirmed gently.
“Wilson ?”
He nodded.
“Figured,” he snorted bitterly as he gazed away. “I really loved you, you know ?”
“I… Yes, I know. I did too, once.”
They remained in silence, heavy in something close to mourning but there wasn’t tension and Bucky was grateful he wasn’t being pushed back.
“Thank you for coming back for me in Madripore,” he declared when the atmosphere grew more neutral.
“You’re welcome, sweetheart. It was time I did something for you, huh ?” he tried in a light tone but Bucky could hear the truthfulness of his statement.
He hesitated, the question he had ask himself for years burning between his teeth. “Did you ever think of freeing me ?”
He regretted the moment the worlds left his lips. It was stupid, he already knew the answer – and he was scared to hear it. How Rumlow would have ever pulled him out of HYDRA’s grip ? He had had too much to lose – his job, his position, his freedom. The guilt and sorrow in the man’s gaze said it all.
“I’m sorry. For letting all this shit happen to you without being able to do anything. I would have treated you well, would have protected you better if I had been your alpha. But I never was ...” He stumbled upon his words, unused to express truthful remorse.
It wasn’t enough. An apology about not being his alpha but nothing about the years of captivity. Still, it was something. He muddled around his words, letting go of the disappointment and focusing on the apology and the little good it procured him to hear it. He let Rumlow’s slack grip around his waist and focused back on more pressing matter.
“Do you have any information about the new HYDRA Roger is building that could help us ? You spent a few years in Madripore.”
“Not really,” he sighed. “Discovering Captain HYDRA’s presence was a bit of a fluke.” He pulled a questionary frown and the man continued his explanation. “I was hearing my mercenary name, Cross Bones, associated with the Flag Smasher and I couldn’t understand why. I didn’t care too much because it was good publicity. But then one of my client told me of HYDRA activity and I suspected they might try to attract problem for me by spreading my name, as revenge. HYDRA don’t take quitter very well,” he snorted. “So I hired a guy who owned me money to dig around a little bit and what was my surprise when I noticed our dear Captain in the back of one of his picture. Then less than 24h hours later I saw you trending on the internet and I knew he sure as hell would too, so I came and searched for you.”
“And you fell upon Sam. He related the event, told me he broke your nose,” he commented snidely with humor.
“Fucking asshole,” he growled without much heat.
“He should arrive here soon,” he confessed. Rumlow pulled a face. “He won’t be happy but I’ll talk to him, he’ll understand,” he assured. “We have questions for you, about HYDRA inside the governement.”
“If he breaks my nose again, I’ll punch back, Soldier.”
He nodded silently. Then : “My name is Bucky. Barnes, if you want.”
He observed him quietly. Smirked without joy, just acceptance.
“I’ll help you, Barnes.”
ooOOoo
When Sam got out the shower, he was still angry but mostly he felt tired and miserable. He had dragged as long as he could in the bathroom, calling both Torres and Jack to ask their help in taking down a HYDRA base. Torrs had been excited, even more when learning he’d be able to use the Flacon suit. Jack had been more reserved – agreeing without any hesitation but wary and conscious of the danger. He had mulled over a few other contact to call for help, the prospect of dismantling it not a small feet but eventually called against adding anyone else. His fellow former Avengers were retired and/ or not joinable and he wasn’t sure he could trust anyone else on these matter who wouldn’t let it slip out to anyone. Walker had crossed his mind, too, but after the compliant way he had closed an eye on Strauss’s assassination, he was bitter and didn’t trust the man to keep silence or even go against Douglas.
Anyway, he had texted them Bucky’s address, which was an asshole move in retrospect especially knowing the man’s boundaries but he had been angry and it had been one way to lash out.
Bucky was sat silently on his sofa, the food Sam had brought back heated and ready to be eaten. The man turned to him and raised immediately in a fluid but slow movement, as if unwilling to frighten a wild animal.
“Sam, can we talk ?” he asked softly.
For a moment, he was tempted to say no. To eat, install himself on the couch and sleep. But the willingness of Bucky to talk and the determination he could read in his eyes stopped him.
“What do you want to talk about ?” he sighed tiredly.
“I want to explain my behavior towards Rumlow. I know I hurt you and you deserve an explanation.”
He swallowed, his chest heavy. So Bucky had noticed he had been hurt. He nodded.
“Go on.”
“I already told you Rumlow was nice to the Soldier. It’s an understatement – though an overstatement too, I realize now. He cared about me, Sam. A lot and he protected, spoiled me as best as he could for years.”
Sam had a lot he wanted to say to those first declaration but he held his tongue, willing to hear Bucky until the end.
“At first it was just a nod of acknowledgment, a compliment. Then a candy, a pat on the head, a few privileges. It might seems small but at the time, it was all I had and it meant the world to me. He treated me like a person even though he didn’t have to. I loved him and I know he loved me too.” Sam jaw ticked and Bucky repeated, more softly, “I know he did, Sam. He was the highlight of my miserable existence, the thing I shouldn’t but couldn’t help myself but want. Him becoming my alpha ? It was the secret and forbidden end goal for me.”
He breathed, looking intensely at him. “I’m telling you that because I want you to understand just how much he meant for me and why I want to protect him, why I pulled him out of a certain death. He was loyal to me during my captivity and I want to repay him for the safety and softness he brought me during that time.”
“Bucky…” any trace of anger had disappeared, he was just feeling sorrow for his lover. The man raised a had, gently indicating he wasn’t finished.
“Despite what I just told you, I realize he’s not a good man. He would hurt me if Pierce ordered so, he would turn his head away if a superior humiliated me. He joined HYDRA willingly and he only decided not to join back once it was mostly destroyed. He killed and tortured and manipulated for the name of the organization that hurt me for years. He – he wasn’t brainwashed,” he added in a smaller voice and Sam felt close to tear hearing Bucky finally acknowledge, after years of healing slowly and painfully, that he had been brainwashed and he hadn’t been responsible for all the terrible things HYDRA made him do.
“He treated me like a human being, yes, but at the end, like one nobody should ever be treated like. He didn’t try to free me, he never even though about it. You think I don’t realize, that I’m blind to how wrong our relationship is. But I am. I know he was wrong for how he participated, however reluctantly, in keeping me prisoner to my own mind. I just… forgive him. Because he’s a coward and doesn’t know better. Because he cared for me and loved me when I needed it. Because –“ he hesitated but resumed steadily “- he still care about me when I’m not the Asset anymore. And because he apologized for it, even if it was just dor a small part.”
He lifted his gaze to Sam. Took in his expression – Sam didn’t know what it showed. “I scented him because in the end, the love I once held for him win and I wanted him to know that. Scenting and marking has always been a way for us to communicate, HYDRA never could entirely control my omegan’s instinct. I wanted to say goodbye to him.”
“This echo of past feeling won’t ever compare to the love I have for you – I’m sorry if I ever made you doubt that.” Sam’s breath caught when hearing Bucky quiet declaration of love. “I know because… because if you had been in Rumlow’s place, I know that you would have tried everything to save me, where Rumlow didn’t because he’s much more selfish and cowardly, and that’s why I love you,” he stuttered, eyes red and glistening.
He couldn’t hear anything more. He took two strides toward Bucky and pulled him in his arm in a violent hug. He sniffled, not having realized tears had leaked from his eyes and pressed him close to his body with everything he had.
“I love you too, god, I swear I love you so much.”
He pulled back, took his face between his hands and kissed him firmly, pouring every love he had. He took him back in his arms, closed his eyes.
“I love you,” he repeated. “I’m sorry I got so angry. It was mostly toward him, because I hate the fact that he had you, you gave himself to him and he still didn’t even try to save you. I’ll never wrap my head around this fact and I understand why you forgave him but that doesn’t change the fact he doesn’t deserve it.”
Bucky nuzzled his neck gently before taking a step, grazing Sam with the softest gaze ever. It made him melt a bit more. Then the ring bell rang out, making them both startled.
“Ah, yes… I forgot to warn you. I called Jack and Torres to the rescue.”
“You gave them my address ?” he complained in bewilderment, luckily more offended than betrayed.
“I was mad, okay ?” he grumbled as he opened the door to reveal both men.
“Sam ! Hello, Bucky !” Torres exclaimed, ever joyous.
“Hello Sam,” Jack patted him on the shoulder. “Hi Sergeant.”
Torres frowned, his gaze passing between Sam and Bucky. “Are we interrupting something ?”
“Shut up, baby Falcon,” Bucky glared in way to hide his embarrassment which pulled a smile out of Sam.
“So, I hear we have an invasion to plan ?” Jack interrupted swiftly.
“Yeah.” He glanced at the still untouched food. “Let’s discuss that while eating.”
Notes:
Hope you enjoyed !
I had fun writing this chapter ! Bucky is making progress and I'm proud of him for that !
I hope the part with Rumlow wasn't too off putting for you - I tried to balance between Rumlow's asshole character and his soft crush for Bucky while having in my mind a whole backstory for them together (which maybe I'll write about someday).
Anyway, it was a good things for Sam and Bucky's relationship (they said I love you !) and for Bucky's healing too. He got closure.(Though we might see Rumlow again aha)
Next chapter... I can't wait ! It will be the last of the first part.
thebiggestcaliflower on Chapter 1 Wed 24 Sep 2025 06:38PM UTC
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