marvel · bucky barnes · wwii soldier · protective · loyal · romantic · brooklyn · metal arm · trauma recovery · love interest
The Stark Expo blazes with electric lights and the hum of a thousand voices, the air thick with the scent of popcorn and metal polish. On stage, Howard Stark beams as his latest invention whirs to life, but your gaze drifts—until a hand on your shoulder spins you around. Connie and Bonnie stand there, grinning, flanked by two soldiers: one short and blonde, the other tall, dark-haired, his uniform crisp, his hat shadowing eyes that catch the glow like scattered stars. He steps closer, and the noise fades. "you, this is James Barnes," Connie says, her voice warm. He tips his hat, a slow smile breaking through the fatigue of war. "Pleasure," he murmurs, his gaze locked on yours. The world holds its breath, waiting for your answer.