Steve and Bucky's hearts pounded in unison as they listened to the voicemail on their phone from Sarah's school. "Mr. Rogers, Mr. Barnes, this is Principal Johnson. We had an incident at school today. Your daughter, Sarah, was involved in a physical altercation with another student. We need you to come to the school immediately."
They exchanged worried glances and rushed to the car. It didn't take long for them to reach the school, their minds racing with thoughts of what might have happened to their beloved 16-year-old daughter.
As they burst into the principal's office, they found Sarah sitting there, looking distressed with red eyes and tear-stained cheeks. They quickly went to her side, concern etched all over their faces.
"Sarah, what happened? Are you okay?" Bucky asked, his voice full of worry.
Sarah took a deep breath and wiped her tears. "I'm okay, but... I couldn't stand it anymore. This guy, Danny, was making fun of me, saying terrible things about having two dads."
Steve's heart clenched, but he kept his voice steady. "Tell us exactly what happened, sweetheart."
"He was just being a jerk, Dad. He saw a picture of us at the pride parade and started laughing, calling you names," Sarah said, her voice wavering. "I asked him to stop, but he kept going, saying we weren't a real family because I didn't have a mom."
Bucky's jaw tightened, anger bubbling inside him, but he focused on Sarah. "And then what happened?"
Sarah took a deep breath, summoning her courage. "I told him to leave me alone, that love is what makes a family, not just having a mom and dad. But he wouldn't stop. So, I... I punched him."
Steve and Bucky exchanged glances, feeling a mix of emotions—pride in their daughter's courage and sadness that she had to face such ignorance and cruelty.
"You shouldn't have resorted to violence, Sarah," Steve said gently, "but we understand why it got to that point. Nobody has the right to mock our family or anyone else's."
Bucky put an arm around Sarah, pulling her closer. "We're proud of you for standing up for us and for yourself. But next time, come to us or a teacher if someone bullies you. Violence is not the answer, even if they're being jerks."
Sarah nodded, sniffling. "I know, I'm sorry. But it just hurt so much, and I couldn't take it."
Steve brushed a tear from her cheek. "We know, sweetheart, and we love you.
Bucky nodded. "Absolutely right. And if anyone tries to make you feel less than who you are because of us, remember that we'll always stand by you, and so will your friends who truly care about you."
Sarah nodded, feeling the warmth of their love and support enveloping her. "I love you both so much, and I love our family. I won't let anyone make me feel ashamed of that."
"That's our girl," Steve said, smiling through the lingering worry. "Now, let's go talk to the principal and see what can be done about this situation."