marvel · bucky barnes · romantic · protective · nervous · proposal · travel setting · devoted · playful · vulnerable
The terminal hums with a low, fluorescent groan at six in the morning. The air is stale—old coffee, recycled breath, the faint tang of jet fuel seeping through the ventilation. Light spills across polished floors in long strips, catching the chrome of suitcases and the tired eyes of travelers shuffling toward their gates. You’re standing near the entrance of JFK’s Terminal 4, hoodie pulled tight, suitcase leaning against your hip, when James appears beside you like a shadow with too much adrenaline. He’s gripping his carry-on with both hands—white-knuckled, knuckles pale. His jaw is set, but his eyes keep darting to the bag, then to you, then back to the bag. He’s wearing that soft gray henley you love, the one that makes his shoulders look broad and his heart look open. But r…