There's a kind of love

“Not at all,” Maddie said stopping to pull her best friend into a hug. “I love you so much gummy bear,” she said more thankful than she’d ever been for her best friend. She truly had needed to hear those words today, she’d needed the reminder that things could work out and that there were people in both her life and Bucky’s life who would fight tooth and nail for them. “I’ve missed this, you, us like this, all of it,” she said as she pulled away from the hug and motioned between the two of them. Right now felt like when the were in high school and inseparable. Throw in Sam and it would’ve been even more like high school. And Maddie didn’t miss high school per say but she did miss Annie and Sam and how their relationship was then.

“You should go for it. Really, because it is well past time that you move past Ryan. He was a scumbag and would never be good enough for you. But Steve seems super sweet, he comes highly recommended by Sam, and Bucky, and he’s totally your type,” she said not wanting Annie to feel pressured into anything by her, but Maddie did also think that this was such a good move. “And that’s adorable, you guys cuddled on the plane wish I could’ve seen it,” she said smiling at her friend. “You know that you deserve to be happy just as much as I do right? Because you do, you deserve someone who will treat you right and with respect. Someone who will love you the right way,” she added as they continued to shop around the market for the last of the things she needed.

---

Steve ran his fingers through his hair and couldn’t help but smile a little. He was actually feeling a little nervous about asking her at all because here he was nearly 100 years old and he’d never actually asked a girl out himself or been on an actual date where it was just him and the girl. He’d been on dates, if you wanted to call them that. But that was in the 40s, they were all double dates Bucky had set him up on, and he was pretty sure the girls would’ve rather been with Bucky than himself. Sure he’d had the whole thing with Peggy, but the issue there was that he’d never dated Peggy. They were always too busy for that, and he knew they’d felt something for one another but it was never actually acted on.

“I’m probably just being dramatic or overreacting but do you really think she would like me and that I could plan a date even worthy of taking her on?” Steve asked feeling almost embarrassed to tell this to Sam, but they were friends so he was hoping for the best. “Because I’ve never been on a date without Bucky setting it up and it being some kind of double date, or with a girl who was actually interested in me and not my friend. Therefore I honestly don’t know the first thing about dating, let alone dating in this century,”

Annie has wrapped her arms around her best friend smiling like an idiot but she didn’t care. She really missed Maddie and she missed these moments, sure, she had some friend back home but not like Maddie. They had formed such anm strong bond Annie could never replace her, not that she would. Maddie was her friend soulmate for lack of better words, and she loved her to bits. “I love you too; so freaking much” she smiled resting her forehead against her friend’s. They weren’t afraid to be intimate like that, hold hands, it was pure friendship. “I am either going to have to visit more often or just move over here, I don’t think I can be away from you for this long anymore.” Annie did miss Maddie so much and wanted to spend so much time with her, it was going to be hard going back home.

Annie nodded in agreement, “it took me so long to realize my self worth. I am a strong and smart woman with a career and I’m super sweet and not just because i love chocolate” she laughed. “Yeah, I think we even held hands but I could have been dreaming that part, he makes me feel warm and fuzzy” Annie admitted. “ I guess I could ask him out, it’s the 21sr century after all.” As soon as they’d get back Annie would try to ask Steve out not really sure what they’d do but figured she’d wing it. “Yeah tall blonde and gorgeous is my type but his eyes make My heart just.. okay I’m going to stop I sound like a teenager.”

---

Sam has seen Steve struggle with so much stuff, he helped him when he asked for it. Sam admires Steve did his honesty and not being afraid to ask for help when needed, he was very humble. As he watched his usually confident friend kind just panic amused Sam. He was going to help with however he could and since he knew Annie so well he’d give it a shot. Sam dropped Steve for a moment and told him to relax.

“Steve. Listen, I know Annie like the back of my hand and that girl likes you, her face lights up when you just look at her, let alone smile at her. Surprised you hadn’t noticed” he chuckled. Then again Steve was pretty oblivious. “As long as she’s with you I don’t think she’ll care what you do, honest. Just walk around a park ask her about her. Show her you genuinely like her and are interested. Kiss her. Women like that” he laughed. Sam nodded “well you have been under ice for seventy something years completely understandable “ Sam explained. “And she enjoyed that cuddle session you had on the plane so on the way back you can do it again” he teased. “I have proof,” Sam chuckled.

@ Kol.

Maddie smiled at Annie and nodded her head, "I agree that we either need to visit more or one of us needs to move," she laughed because she truly hadn't realized how much she'd missed Annie and Sam. And she wanted to spend so much more time with her friends. Being this far apart really did make it hard for them to truly be a part of each other's lives. After all, it wasn't like if something were to happen that they could get to one another quickly anymore. And when they really wanted to celebrate things together like birthdays or special anniversaries they had in their friendship it wasn't as easy and there was normally months of planning involved and saving tons of money as well because they'd have to take at least a week off of work to do things. And Maddie couldn't even imagine how she'd handle things if she were to get married and Annie and Sam couldn't make it. That would hurt her so much because she and Annie had planned on being in each other's weddings since they were like seven years old.

"You are," Maddie said rubbing Annie's arms. "You're so strong and so smart. You really do deserve the world and one day I hope you get everything you want from life," she said ready to support her friend until the end of the line for them. "Oh totally, it's the 21st century and woman are capable of asking men out on dates if they want. Though I do feel like Steve is a little old fashioned and I'm not sure how well he would handle you asking him out," she said biting her lip. "I don't say that as I think he'd say no. I totally think he would say yes, but I do think it might throw him off a little because well he is like almost 100 years old," she joked, even though it wasn't really a joke. "Maybe give him a day and if he doesn't ask you by tonight then you can ask him, ya know in case maybe he's shy," she added shrugging her shoulders as she really didn't know much about Steve at all. She'd really have to ask Sam about him later if they had any time together.

---

Steve rolled his eyes at Sam, of course, he'd bring up the whole airplane thing. That really hadn't been planned, and Steve was glad that they'd both enjoyed the cuddling session but must it be brought up? Maybe he didn't like it being brought up because he was still a little unsure of what was going on with him and Annie and he didn't want anyone to get the wrong idea. There was also the whole he had no idea how to be comfortable with things like that, public displays of affection made him uncomfortable, even if he was the one involved. Honestly, Steve didn't know if he was truly cut out for the whole dating life in the 21st century. Yea Bucky was pulling it off, kind of, and pretty well at that. But Bucky could pull it off in the 40s just as well. Steve had never been good at this kind of thing.

"Okay, so I should kiss her? Even though this will be our first date and we're not even really sure if we want to date I should kiss her? That's not totally forward and too much?" He asked wondering if Sam knew what he was talking about. Though he was sure his friend knew, Sam was part of this century so he knew much more than Steve did even if it wasn't always totally accurate he'd would know better than Steve who was still trying to figure things out.

Annie missed having these conversations with Maddie, they really didn’t have the time to do it anymore. They had their own lives in separate countries, he’ll, separate continents. It was like Annie could take the day off and go see Maddie whenever she wanted there was so much planning involved. Not to mention a budget, Europe was expensive and Annie has to run her bakery, she couldn’t just leave on the spot. It took her so long to make a plan for this week, she almost didn’t go because she didn’t want to leave her bakery. She hasn’t seen Maddie in like two years so it was long overdue. They both missed birthdays, friend anniversaries, holidays and it made Annie sad. What if one day something happened and she couldn’t see her again. The thought made her shiver with fear.

Annie didn’t always see her self as this strong and independent young woman, she actually spend a few years doubting herself and her self worth. That was a story that she didn’t tell Maddie about the whole Ryan thing was messy, heartbreaking and disgusting. Sam didn’t even know the whole story but she wasn’t going to tell them now. Annie hasn’t even thought about how Steve would feel until Maddie mentioned it, “oh, right. It was totally dumb of me to assume that he’d even say yes. You know what, I don’t think I’ll do it after all.” Annie was doing it again, she couldn’t help it. “No, I’m sure he has way better plans with Sam. Don’t want to disrupt that.. anyways. Maybe we should Head back and not talk about this..” Annie closed her eyes for s moment trying to her that man out of her head.

---

Sam stared at Steve for a minute, maybe he shouldn’t have brought the cuddling session up. He was just looking out for him and trying to help him, “all right, I will dispose of the evidence and never bring the subject back up.” He laughed. Sam gave Steve a look before answering, “okay... maybe not. I was just trying to lighten the mood, but i can see it went over your head.” Sam shook his head, “ just do whatever you want man, you’re the one asking her out not me.” He shrugged his shoulders. Sam looked at the time “I guess we should head back.” Sam walked wondering what the girls were doing, “I guess my advice isn’t very helpful, just be yourself that’s probably about the only good advice I have.”

Bucky was bored and tired of waiting around so he decided he’d get his stuff from the abandoned apartment. He wrote a note letting everyone know where he was going. “Hey, Maddie /Steve I went to her my stuff from the place I was hiding out, I’ll be back soon. So don’t miss me too munch. “

@ Kol.

“Hey, don’t do that,” Maddie said shaking her head. “I’m sure that Steve likes you, because you’re you and he’d be a moron not to. I’m just saying maybe let him make the first move because he is like 100 and he may get overwhelmed by you making the first move. I mean I’m sure he’s really not used to that. Woman being so forward I mean. Which of course, is backwards now because women make the first move all the time now but they didn’t in 1945. And from what Bucky has told me about him he’s never had girls throw themselves at him. Not that that’s what your doing but he’s just not use to that,” she told her friend not wanting to discourage her from moving forward because Maddie truly did think they would make a wonderful pair, and she wanted her friend to be happy.

---

Steve wasn’t trying to ignore Sam or blow him off but he pushed past him to get a closer look at one of the TVs that he happened to see in a window near them. And he was kind of horrified. A building had been bombed, the same one the accords were taking place and Bucky was the one being accused. “Sam we have to go,” he said turning to his friend. “I’m not sure what’s going on but we need to find out,” he said praying that Bucky was okay. This was not how he’d wanted to spend his vacation. And he would be damned before he let the police get there hands on Bucky and take him in. Especially now that Steve knew how well Bucky was doing. Because that would crush Maddie, which in turn would crush Annie and Sam likely too.

[ sorry it’s short I’m at work! ]

Annie sighed as they were headed back to her home, “I cant help it, I’ve spent two years of my life with someone who I thought loved me but he just..” She shook her head. “Never mind I rather not talk about Ryan.” Annie looked at Maddie, “I know, I thought about that too, he’s very old fashioned. I’m not going to hold my breath, I don’t want to get attached to someone just so I’ll get hurt again. I learned my lesson.” Annie really didn’t want to go into details of wha happened, though she did tell Sam and Steve a little about it. She regretted that. “I suppose we should head back so we can figure out what we’re doing this week.”

Of course Annie didn’t realize they wouldn’t have much of a vacation because what shoe ones nex shook them both. As they walked they noticed people gathering around the television something newsworthy was broadcasting. Annie steppes forward to take a closer look.!”Maddie you might want to take a look at this” she softly. This week has gone to hell in a matter of 16 hours.

---

Sam was surprised when Steve just kind of walked past him like what he said didn’t sit well with him. He figured out that he wasn’t being rude he had to a look at the television. Sam sighed this week was supposed to be fun, guess being a hero doesn’t a set schedule. Sam followed Steve “so where exactly are we going Steve? Back to Maddie's makes sense..” he hoped for Steve’s sake Bucky was still there.

Bucky was on his way to gather his belongings excitement coursing through him couldn’t wait to tell Maddie his feeling. Except that he wouldn’t be doing that, he could hear an explosion coming from a building where they were having the meeting about the Accords and the only reason Bucky even knew was Steve had brought it up. He noticed he was the prime suspect “shit” Bucky didn’t do that l, he couldn’t. He sighed knowing he had to make a break for it. Just as he was covering up someone noticed him and called the police. Bucky began to walk fast past a large group of people. Trying to blend in.

@ Kol.

Maddie walked over to the crowd of people and pushed her way through so she could get a much better look at what was going on. And she didn’t believe it, there was actually no way that Bucky had done that. Well she supposed there was a way because he had been alone for the last couple of hours so he could’ve but Maddie didn’t actually believe that he did this. Or that he was even capable of this. Someone has blown up a building and people had died for crying out loud, the Bucky she knew wouldn’t and couldn’t have done this. But she was at a loss for words, she didn’t understand why anyone would want to frame him like this. He was trying to better himself, he was trying to overcome being brainwashed. The more Maddie thought about it all the harder it became for her to breath. This was what she had feared.

“I need to get home,” she said quickly praying that this was all a dream. She was praying that they were going to walk into her home and see him standing there waiting for them. She didn’t know what she might do if she got home and he wasn’t there, if he’d left to try and keep her safe. Maddie did not like the feeling she had in the pit of her stomach at all.

---

“If I know Bucky then he’s not at Maddie’s anymore because he wouldn’t let himself get caught there and drag her into this whole mess. And there’s no way he doesn’t know. So what we need to do is find him before someone else does,” he said not entirely sure where to start but he had a feeling that Bucky’s old hideout would be a smart choice. Though he should probably get his suit on for something like this. And luckily they hadn’t made it far from Maddie’s so that small detour shouldn’t make a huge difference. They did need to be quick though.

“You should call her though. Keep her in the loop. Because I’m sure by now she and Annie have caught wind of this and I think the last thing we need is for her to lose her mind,” Steve told him running his hands over his face. So much for a peaceful vacation, so much for them all being happy. And to make matters worse he has was getting a phone call from Natasha. Which couldn’t mean many things. Probably her calling to tell him to stay the hell out of everything. But that wasn’t going to happen. “He didn’t do this Nat. You guys are looking for the wrong guy,”

Annie didn’t know much about the situation seeing as Sam didn’t really explain much to her. Which by her was fine she didn’t want to her involved in any of this anyway. This was supposed to be a relaxing time to be with her friend but things never seem to pan out for Annie. She felt kind of selfish for even thinking these things here was her friend obviously panicked and worried about this man. Annie tried her best to keep her calm but it didn’t really do any good m. “All right lets go” was all she said before grabbing all the bags and following Maddie back. Annie wondered where Sam and Steve were at, she was sure they’d probably went back to the house to see if Bucky was still there. Annie hoped so for Maddie’s sake she was freaking out and Annie wasn’t exactly good at comforting people. Not even her best friend, it has been heard since she’s spent any time with her though.

Maddie seemed to rush out of the crowd of people and Annie was trying to keep up with her, heavy bags and all. She knew how much Bucky meant to her so she didn’t mind being left behind, though she did catch up after awhile and not much longer they were back at her place. No sign of Steve or Sam, and when they stepped in Maddie went searching for Bucky. Annie see the bags down and looked around before finding the note. “Hey, he left this note for you, says he was getting his stuff from his hideout.”

---

Sam followed Steve and nodded, “that makes sense I wouldn’t want them to get involved either. Maddie is going to her involved anyway because of their “thing” and Annie is being roped in unwillingly I’m sure. Either way we have tinker then know.” After changing into more appropriate attire Sam decided to call Maddie as they went looking for Bucky. “It’s sam, relax Steve snd i are looking for him, just stay home where it’s safe. If by chance he shows up let us know.. I’m so sorry. Steve’s got this.”

Bucky tried so hard to keep from the public eye to not be seen or heard and now out of nowhere this shows up. What’s going to happened next? As he ran he tried to think of his next step, leaving the country. That means leaving Maddie and that broke him, Bucky didn’t want to rope her into this he hated that he had to leave. Bucky has no way of calling Steve and he was trying to keep himself calm. He couldn’t possibly go back to his hideout even as close as he was to it, Bucky kept his cool. He’d figure something out, so many police officers on the street he had to keep his cool.

@ Kol.

Maddie was sure she had never picked up her phone so fast, but the moment she heard it ring she'd answered hoping it was something good about Bucky. But it wasn't exactly what she was hoping. "Okay," she said softly willing herself not to cry and let her emotions take hold. This wasn't the time to be emotionally distraught because she knew that Sam and Steve need to worry about keeping themselves safe, finding Bucky safely, and what to do once they found him. They didn't need to also worry about her and her emotional state. "Please be careful, oh um he did leave a note though here that said he was going to grab the last of his things from his hideout if that's helpful," she said pushing her fingers through her hair before the call ended and she let herself fall into her favorite chair.

She honestly, couldn't believe that her fear had become a reality. It wasn't as bad of reality as she'd imagined because at least no one had caught on that he'd been in her home so there was no one tearing through her things or her house wondering if she was hiding him out. She herself wasn't being arrested for anything so they were out of the clear there, but still, Bucky wasn't there. He was on the run again, he was being hunted down for something that she knew he didn't do. And she prayed that he wasn't found out. That this would all blow over and maybe in a couple of months she'd get a letter or something saying he'd found somewhere else to lay low and she could go meet him there. Because as scary as it was to think of being arrested and facing charges all for helping him Maddie knew she'd do it. She would go on the run with him if she had that option. Because she loved him, that was why this was so hard for her now. She had no idea where he was if he was safe, or if she would ever see him again to even tell him how she felt.

---

Steve listened to the conversation Maddie and Sam had about Bucky and that he'd left a note, which was so helpful. It gave them a starting point. Maybe Bucky would go back to his hideout, even just long enough for Steve and Sam to find a way to break in and break him out before getting caught. Or maybe he'd been on his way there and they'd be able to spot him before someone else and get him off the streets. Though he was hoping for the first thought simply because they were a little overdressed to hunt him down in person on the streets. And that made Steve wonder if maybe putting on their suits was a bad idea. They were, after all, going after Bucky without being called in by anyone and thanks to the whole accords thing that wasn't supposed to happen anymore. Though Steve didn't give a shit about the accords. He'd thought they were a bad idea from the beginning.

"So we need a game plan. And we don't have a lot of time to think one up, so hope you're okay under pressure," Steve said forever thankful that he had Sam on his side willing to do this. Because he was sure that they both knew that Sam was putting his freedom on the line for this, hell they were both putting their freedom on the line for Bucky but he would feel worse if Sam got caught than if he did. After all, Steve was nearly 100 years old and while he did want to get a chance to live his life, but if he didn't he'd be okay. Sam still had his whole life ahead of him.

Annie stood there and watch her friend talk to Sam about Bucky and his whereabouts. Annie has her arms crossed not sure what to do or what to say, she wasn’t used to this kind of thing. The worst that has happened she didn’t want to think about. She watched as Maddie took a seat, frustrated and upset at this whole ordeal. Annie bit her lip, she wasn’t sure how to even comfort her best friend. Annie pulled up a chair and sat in front of Maddie trying to think of something to say to comfort her. “I’m sorry this is happening, we just got here and this trip all went to hell in a matter of hours. I know how much he means to you. I’m sure Steve and Sam will find him and keep him safe, if not they’ll break him out.. that’s my guess.” She swallowed the lump that formed in her throat. She patted Maddie’s hands, “just gotta keep a positive thoughts, he’ll be okay. You guys can be together.”

Annie was horrible at this she hasn’t had to comfort anyone in tears, she was the one who was comforted and even that was a year ago. Annie watched as the tv news was still thinking about what happened and she had to wonder if this was something she wanted tin get herself involved with. The whole Avenging thing, if by some miracle Steve has asked her on a date, would she be willing to be involved with him? Knowing well that he could die in combat or in constant spotlight. She sighed softly she shouldn’t even be thinking this while her friend needed her.

---

Sam nodded in agreement with Steve, after hanging up with Maddie they started thinking up a plan, “Okay, so maybe we check abandoned buildings because that would make the most sense..” he began talking. “Maybe split up if one of us find him the other one lets them know. I’ll try not to let myself get captured.” Sam shrugged “I mean that’s the only thing I have l..”

Bucky was scared he knew I’d they caught him that would be it for him, he would either be in prison or they’d do the capital punishment. Which seemed extreme but he did kill over a dozen people maybe more but that wasn’t even his fault. The government didn’t want excuses they wanted him in custody they didn’t care what happened to Bucky, st least that’s what Bucky thought. And as he made his way through crowds he knew Steve would be looking for him, maybe Bucky would have luck and run into Sam or Steve.

@ Kol.

Maddie nodded her head in response to Annie. She knew that she needed to remain strong right now because thinking the worst wasn’t going to be good for anyone. Though she couldn’t help but be worried and even a little stressed by the situation. After all, she and Bucky had just met and there was still so much she wanted to experience with him and she was worried for him. He was a kind of a fugitive wanted by multiple governments for crimes against them. He had worked for a known nazi organization and killed a long list of people. And while Maddie believed wholeheartedly that he had been brainwashed and only did those things because of that it didn’t matter. Because she was just a civilian who’d met him afterwards. She was sure that’s how people would see her, just some silly girl who fell for a tortured soul with a handsome face.

“I’m sorry that you got drug into this mess,” she said reaching out for her friends hand. “I know this isn’t what you signed up for and that this week was supposed to be relaxing and happy. And that’s not what this is,” she said wishing there was a way she could fix it all but she didn’t know how. Maddie also felt awful that Annie had seemed to excited to possibly go on a date with Steve and now this was happening. Because this wasn’t a good way to start a relationship, though now Maddie wasn’t sure either of them would ever make the move. And they both did deserve to be happy.

---

Steve nodded his head. “Splitting up sounds good and if one of us finds him let the other one know on the coms. But be careful,” he said not wanting to fall into the issue of Nat or someone else catching them. Steve already knew this was a pretty dangerous mission they’d gotten themselves into, and the moment they found him there would be no turning back.

“You do know though that you don’t have to help me right? I can find him on my own and you can go back to the girls if you want I won’t be upset in the slightest,” Steve told Sam wanting his friend to know that he had a choice man the matter. He didn’t have to give up his freedom possibly to help Steve find Bucky. Sure Sam knew Maddie and could easily be helping for that regard but he had a feeling Maddie would tell him the same thing. If he didn’t want to do this he didn’t have to, and Steve wanted him to know that.

@ James Barnes

Annie was more than a little discouraged now, knowing that this week was not going to be one of fun and laughter. Not to mention that her and Steve were not going to happen, she was annoyed with herself. Getting her own hopes up like that was bad, she let it happened and now here she was. Trying to put in a brace face. She looked at Maddie who was holding her hand and nodded, “we’ll have to reschedule, can’t be out having fun when Buckys our in the run and Sam and Steve are trying to find him. It’s okay I get it.”

Annie helped Maddie with her groceries, unloading them st home trying to distract themselves from worrying too much. “I don’t want to sound like a negative Nancy or anything but I don’t think it would have worked out between Steve and me anyway, he’s got more pressing matters than dating some random woman.” She found herself laughing, “it’s okay. I’ll find someone eventually, without the help of Sam.” She sighed softly hoping they were all okay.

---

Sam stared st Steve shaking his head, “hey, it’s fine I want to help you, like we did in DC. I helped you then and I’m sticking by you, “ he reassured Steve he had his six. They discussed how they’d say they found Bucky, without saying his name. Just in case anyone was listening, “I’ll keep you posted” he said before taking off. Sam wanted to help Steve find his friend, he knew how much Barnes meant to him. Steve was usually a selfless guy Sam knew that he also knew Steve would put his life on the line for good people. This is the least Sam could do for him. All he wanted was his friend back.

Bucky was anxious and scared, he was just getting better but these people were after him. They were either going to put him in prison or worse kill him, and Bucky wasn’t quite ready to die just yet. He ran right into Sam as he was looking over his shoulder. “Sorry my bad” Sam said helping him up before noticing him. “Stay calm” he whispered. Before getting in coma, “Steve I got .. something.” Hoping he would get the hint.

@ Kol.

Maddie sighed, "I feel awful that this happened the same time you guys came to visit," she said knowing it wasn't her fault, but she still felt bad. She never got to see her friends anymore and then the one time they're all able to plan a week together something like this would happen. This was why someone should just move so they were closer to one another then it wouldn't matter because it would be easier to get together another time. It was extremely difficult right now to plan anything because there was an actual ocean between them, not to mention the multiple countries, and the time differences.

She also wished there was something she could do reassure her friend that it would all work out okay. Maybe this would all pan out great and Steve and Annie could and would still be together. Maddie wasn't exactly sure how that would work out, especially right now considering Sam and Steve were tracking a fugitive to try and save him from the government, and she was sure that didn't look good on Steve's part. But maybe they wouldn't get caught, it wouldn't matter, and everything would work out just fine. Which was the same mentality she was trying to have about Bucky, maybe Steve and Sam would find him first. They'd take him somewhere safe and then when she knew it was safe she'd meet up with them and her and Bucky would be happy and together.

---

Steve would truly be lost if he didn't have Sam. Sure he'd only known Sam briefly compared to how long he knew Bucky or how long Sam had known Maddie and Annie, he felt like they'd built a pretty good sturdy friendship, and that was a hard thing to do in this field. He'd nodded his head though at the mention of Sam keeping him posted before they both went their separate ways in hopes of finding Bucky before anyone else did and Steve was having no luck. It was actually a lot harder than one might think to find someone in a crowd, especially when that crowd of people was also a little freaked out already, or when the person you were looking for was likely keeping an extra low profile.

Steve was already starting to turn to head in the direction he'd seem Sam take off. "On my way," he said hoping that this was going to be as easy as it seemed. Though Steve was pretty sure it wouldn't be, and he had kind of a nagging feeling in the pit of his stomach telling him that this was not going to end well. But he didn't want to listen to that. He had to believe that this was going to end well because otherwise, he was going to have to go through the whole process of losing his best friend again, and he was going to have to explain to Maddie that they weren't able to save Bucky. Not a conversation he wanted to have.

Annie sat quietly, letting everything in, she would be more upset if she knew the man. She knew how much he meant to Maddie and Steve, and while Sam didn’t know him well, Steve was a huge part of Sam’s life now so this was affecting him as well. She just wished she could be more useful or comforting but she wasn’t. This was supposed to be a nice visit but it was more of a nightmare now, for them. Annie wasn’t a very optimistic person, maybe she became more cynical because of what happened to her and refused to let her past go, but she had optimism for her friend. She had to put on a brave face and not be so selfish. She turned off the news, nothing good would come from her watching it. Maddie was already upset and worried enough, “I’m sure once they find him they’ll keep you posted, at least Sam will, I’m not sure about Steve because I don’t know him. They’ll find him,” Annie told her friend.

Annie stared at the floor thinking about how much Maddie deserved a happy life, with Bucky or whoever made her happy. She’s been through so much, she needed to have that. As much optimism she was giving Maddie, Annie didn’t have any for herself. She just didn’t want to go through another heartbreak, she refused to go through that again. She had looked st her phone for messages mostly work related. “It’ll be okay, you’ll see,” Annie closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. “I’m not good st this, I’m sorry.”

---

Sam didn’t waste any time as he tried to keep Bucky calm, telling him to relax that everything would be okay. He wasn’t sure how he felt about him yet, Sam didn’t really know Bucky, they barely got an introduction, he’s only heard stories from Steve. This man really loved Steve and had always watched out for him and now Steve was doing the same for him and Sam really admired that. That’s the kind of friendship that’s hard to find and he was lucky himself he had two friends like that, sure both women but that didn’t really matter to him. They were his best friends who always looked out for him .

Bucky was panicking he didn’t known how to handle this, Sam kept him calm. His breathing was heavy he for sure thought that he might be having s panic attacking but nothing ever came. He relaxed his muscles as he waited for any sign of Steve. Once he did see him, he relaxed more but felt guilty. Guilty that they were being dragged down by him, they’d go to prison just for being in his presence. Bucky knew Steve well though to know he wasn’t going to give up, “I can do this all day” Steve was going to find away to help Bucky. Til the end of the line.

@ Kol.

Madeleine nodded her head trying to will herself to believe that this really would all work out. She needed to believe that it would be okay. “I just think I’m so worried because I love him. And if something awful does happen I might not even know. I mean he’s a fugitive and one of the most wanted men in the world. No one owes me any answers and they aren’t obligated to tell me anything. So I’m sure if he did die they’d brush it under a rug and pretend it had never even happened. Because they don’t care why the things happened, or about his side of the story,” she said pushing her fingers through her hair. This was honestly the hardest thing she’d ever had to go through.

“Plus what if he’s my one? Ya know like the one great love of my life and he’s taken from me this soon and then I never recover?” She said knowing that was probably a bit dramatic but Madeleine did have a flair for the dramatics. It was easily a gift of hers. At least she liked to view it as a gift because that was better than looking at it as a flaw.

---

Steve made it over to Sam and Bucky relatively quickly before he looked around to try and figure anything out. There had to be somewhere near by where they could take Bucky and get him out of plane sight long enough to come up with a plan to get him out of there. “Do you only have one safe house?” He asked Bucky quietly silently hoping Bucky would say there was more than one possibly giving them an option to get out of the streets and somewhere safe.

Whatever they decided on though Steve knew it needed to be done quickly because every second they were out there on the streets was a second that someone could spot him. And he knew they needed to be smart about this all because Steve did want to be able to tell Maddie they were okay, that she didn’t have to worry about Bucky. He wanted to tell her that she could still see him and that everything would work out, because he could tell that they cared deeply about one another and all he wanted was for his friend to be happy.

Annie grabbed her best friend’s hands and try to keep her calm, “Hey, it’s going to be okay. Steve isn’t going to let anyone hurt Bucky, that’s his best friend. He almost died trying to get recover him in DC, I’m sure he’d do it again if he has to.” Anne knew how much Maddie loved Bucky, it was written all Over her face. If Annie learned anything about Steve is how much Bucky meant to him. He was willing to break the law for him and even risk his life, he was extremely loyal to Bucky. “I don’t know much about Steve but I do know that he hates injustice and he’s not going to let them take him without a fight first.”

Annie smiled softly and pulled her friend closer to hug her once more kissing the side of her head. “He’ll come back to you, like I said Steve’s going to do his best to protect Bucky. You can count on that, and you know I don’t know much if anything” she laughed.

---

Bucky sighed shaking his head “I didn’t think i would need another one but I also should have known better.” Bucky spoke quietly, “I don’t know if I’m worth all this trouble.” He looked at his old friend feeling guilty about having them basically trying to help him and making them fugitives by association. Bucky pulled his hat to hide his face better, “they’re going to find me eventually and I might be out in prison or... “ he couldn’t even finish that sentence. Sam looked between the two, “we’ll find a way to lay low for awhile.” Bucky cleared his throat “that’s the thing they’re not going to stop looking for me, they’ll take me dead or alive and I feel horrible for dragging Maddie into this, she’s probably worried about me.. and I never told her that I love her” Bucky said sadly.

Sam refused to give up though “believe me she loves you too, I can see it her hopeful eyes and we’re not giving up, we just have to figure something out, keep moving”’he nodded. He looked st Steve maybe he’d come up with something, Sam was now doing this for both Maddie and Steve. He sighed softly as he thought about how they’d leave Vienna without being noticed.

((Saw Aladdin last night. I loved it the Genie was great ))

@ Kol.

Maddie knew that Annie was right, from the way that Bucky had talked about Steve in the short time that she'd known him Maddie just knew that Steve was the man who would literally do anything for his best friend. And she appreciated it a lot, maybe because that was how she was. Maddie knew that she would do the same thing that Steve was doing for either Sam or Annie. They were her best friends, and while they didn't see each other as much as they used to Maddie would still do anything for either of them. Maddie knew that she would give up her life if that were what it really came to because she loved them. Honestly, Maddie didn't know the whole story about what went down with Annie and her ex and she didn't need to know the whole story but what she did know was that if she ever laid eyes on the man who hurt Annie everyone had best believe that he would be in a world of pain.

"I guess we can find something here to do then," Maddie said biting her lip and looking around her house. "Anything really to keep my mind off of everything," she said not wanting to think of Bucky currently. Yes she was worried about Bucky and she was thinking the worst, but it wasn't a good idea for her to remain in this state. She did need to take her mind off everything so that maybe she wouldn't stress herself out to a point of not being okay.

---

Steve smiled at his friends and nodded his head when Sam told Bucky that Maddie loved him too. It was rather clear that they both cared for one another deeply. And Steve really did hate that this was happening because it was the most unfair thing he could think of. Bucky had been through so much shit in his life that he deserved a chance. He deserved a chance to be happy and find love. And right now Steve was going to do whatever it took to make sure that Bucky got that chance. There was no way on earth that he was going to let this go. No matter the cost to himself.

"You're not going to prison, we're not going to let that happen. And you're going to see Maddie again and you can tell her how you feel then. Or you can wait if the timing isn't right and tell her when things have cooled off. But I promise you two are going to be together again," he said knowing damn well that he would plead and do whatever it took to make sure that they got to see one another again, even if it was the last thing he did. And hell maybe Steve would even find a way to make time to actually plan something with Annie. If she would even still be interested in him after all of this. He'd totally understand if she wasn't because this was a lot to take in. On top of everything else that went on with him, and he could see why someone might not want to get involved with him. But he still wanted to at least give it a shot.

[ really it was good?! I want to see it, but I'm not sure when or if I'll get a chance to! ]

Ana Annie felt bad she wished Maddie could have spent more time with Bucky she didn’t even know the man that well. She only knew from what Steve and Maddie has told her and it seemed like he was such a nice guy with a tragic past and present. She hoped that I’d this blew over and by some miracle Bucky was free that they’d get together. Fall in love, which already happened, get married and have kids. Annie wanted that happiness for her best friend she deserved the world and more. Annie knee distance and time had made things difficult and their friendship had altered a bit but they were still close. No, it wasn’t the same, but they were still in each other’s lives and that’s what mattered. Annie rubbed her friend’s back trying to comfort her and distract her from all this. Annie looked st her for a minute “well, when I need a distraction I make, or maybe I’m just thinking too much about work again, I can’t stop working that’s all I ever do. Hence why I haven’t been on a date in years.”

Annie hopes her rambling would distract Maddie, she really didn’t want to get into the topic of Ryan. She wanted to forget it, Annie sighed. She hoped the three men were doing okay, she also had to wonder if after all of this was over if she’d be able to talk to Steve. She didn’t date soldiers for a reason, she appreciated what they did for her country and respected and admired them, but it’s not safe. It was the same with being a hero, always jeopardizing their lives for the greater good. They never had time to date her and maybe Steve would be the same. She didn’t know.

---

Bucky couldn’t help but think the worst after everything that’s happened and everything’s he’s done. He didn’t think he was worthy of much, Bucky told Steve to just let them take him. He needed to be behind bars, Steve wasn’t having it, none of those things were his fault. He explained it to him over and over and Bucky sighed, “I don’t know if I’m worth all this Steve..” Bucky felt like this was so much trouble just for him. He wasn’t going to argue with Steve, Bucky learned the hard way. Arguing with Steve Rogers was like talking to a wall. He chuckled st some memories, “sorry, was just thinking back when we were kids and we’d sneak around.. this kind of feels like that only on a bigger scale.”

Bucky places his hand on Steve’s shoulder “I really appreciate this man, you have no idea.” He thanked Sam for his effort as well Bucky knew that Sam was now Steve’s right hand man. He also realized that Steve didn’t really need his protection anymore, Bucky yawned softly,”I don’t know where we’re headed.. “ Bucky tried to lay low.

((I went in not knowing what to expect but I loved it. You always stay busy huh? XD Also is you can skip to them being arrested and them breaking out that’s cool ))

@ Kol.

[ I do pretty much stay busy! It's kind of insane sometimes ::faceapalm: ]

Maddie enjoyed taking her mind off of Bucky with Annie. It was nice to talk to her best friend about things that were a little bit happier than everything currently going on. Though even a few hours later all she could find herself doing in the moments when there was nothing being said was worry. What if something happened? What if Sam, Bucky, and Steve were all hurt, or worse dead? How would they know? And she knew that this wasn't helpful to literally anyone but she couldn't help herself. Literally, Bucky was the man she loved, Sam was one of her best friends, and Steve was one of Sam's and Bucky's best friends so of course, they'd protect him and vice-versa. So she could only imagine that if one of them got hurt everyone would get hurt and if that wasn't something to make her worry then she'd be a bad friend.

"Do you think they'll call or find a way to at least tell us if they're okay or safe?" She finally asked Annie wondering if she was also worried about their friend. She wondered if they'd remember to keep her and Annie updated or how that was even going to work because she had no idea. But Maddie did hope that they found a way and remembered them back here at her house. Because not knowing was always going to be worse than knowing everything, and Maddie did no want to live in a world where she never got to see any of them again and never knew why or what happened. She was the type of person who for sure needed closure, at least when it came to things like that or it would drive her mad. And Maddie knew that wasn't always possible, there would always be situations where she wouldn't get that even though she wanted and needed it, but she truly hoped this wasn't one of those moments.

---

Steve couldn't have been more annoyed that they'd been caught, Bucky had been arrested, and that he and Sam were being treated like they were criminals. Yeah, he understood everything but he thought it was stupid because no one was actually listening to him when he said that Bucky was innocent. He was sure it wouldn't help his case any either to tell them he knew Bucky was innocent because he'd been with him the last two days, or that he knew who Bucky had been with. But Steve wasn't going to tell them that because he himself didn't want to drag Maddie into this whole mess, and he was sure that Bucky wouldn't forgive him if he got her arrested as well for helping him. Because well he was sure that she'd get in much more trouble than he would, Maddie had, after all, aided and abetted him for over a week. Things only got worse though when he and Sam had caught a glimpse of the interview going on with Bucky downstairs, and that was when he knew something was wrong. He was only proven right when Bucky pretty much broke out of the cell he'd been in.

He sighed and looked at Sam. "It looks like we're not quite done here after all," he said shaking his head this was the perfect moment to break out himself and go after Bucky again. And this time he wasn't going to get caught. "So the plan is we're getting Bucky, we're knocking him out, and we're taking him somewhere safe and secure where no one will find us. Take this, so we can stay in communication, and we'll meet at the spot we talked about earlier," Steve said as he tossed a communication device over to Sam. All he could hope for right now was that somehow this plan worked because he did no want to lose his best friend again.

It had been a few days since they last saw Steve, Bucky and Sam and Annie couldn’t feel any worse. Her friend was stressed out and she was doing her best to keep her busy or distracted. Annie called home to let them know she’d be extending her stay. Annie was worried about Maddie and she didn’t want to leave her alone Annie had told Maddie she’d stay in Vienna as long as she needed. They talked about childhood memories, and even how Annie would like to try some of Maddie’s fruits in her baked goods. “We should start s business together, I mean I can do all the business part I do that now and I’m doing pretty well, I was thinking about opening another shop., but I don’t think I should I never have time for anything...”

Annie held Maddie’s hands in her own, “yes, Sam is very good about letting me know what’s going on with his Avenging job. As soon as it’s safe for them to reach us they will” Annie wsnted to comfort her best friend in any way she could, “come on let’s go to your fruit stand, or we can stay here and I’ll make something sweet for you with your fresh fruit,”

---

Bucky was in handcuffs, hand cuffs that would hold him down . He felt like s monster, he looked down and didn’t talk to anyone when they asked him questions. He was being questioned by a therapist and he sighed, he didn’t want a therapist he wanted to see Maddie again. As soon as he saw the red book with the black star, Bucky knew. He frowned “who the hell are you?” He question before the man started calling his name, and as soon as his brain was reset he became the winter soldier. He hurt anyone that got in his way including Sam who went after the “therapist”. No longer Bucky bit but the asset he climbed into a helicopter to escape. Not even s few minutes later he was being pulled down by the blonde man he met at s bridge. He frowned.

Sam simply nodded and went off to find Bucky it didn’t take long for Steve to find him trying to escape on a helicopter, Sam was hiding out watching as his friend pulled the helicopter and soon after fell off the building. Sam ran downstairs and out the building to see Steve pull Bucky out of the water, “I found us a ride come on, you need help carrying him?”

(( it cant be helped huh? Lol sorry it’s kinda short! I’m at work ))

@ Kol.