Maximoff, Falcon and The Winter Soldier.

The world didn’t know many details about the battle that happened after Bruce Banner brought everyone back. The main thing for them was that Captain America wasn’t coming back and Tony Stark retired to recover himself and live an anonymous life, out of the map. Everyone unanimously agreed it was better that way, protecting people from worrying too much and focus on their lives.

For an arm injury like Kenya’s, she should’ve been at least three months in recovery. Giving the advanced technology brought by her friends and her just being stubborn, it only took a month for the woman to be back in her duties. Said month was more than enough for Wanda and her to catch up on the things she missed, mostly explaining about Silverwitch foundation and how it was the only way she could live something close to an average life. She knew that Wanda wouldn’t go along with her, because even if they had each other, nothing could ever take away the grief the older had after loosing the love of her life. Without time to lose, little Maximoff went back to Seattle and focused on what she did best; helping and organizing people to help the ones in need. There were so many orphan kids and helpless people, so many shelters at its full capacity, that the chaos didn’t allow her to breathe. Some would say she was being too hardworking, should be enjoying her time with family and friends. The thing is, no one could understand how just knowing they were alive and well was enough for her to be happy. It didn’t matter if she had to live for her job and her job only like the last few months.

Bucky, of course, didn’t understand the last part. Partly taking it as her not wanting to be near him, to live a happily ever after with the Italian douche that didn’t let him visit in her the Hospital. They haven’t seen each other since the day Steve left, and even though she made him sure to call whenever he wanted, he never did.

“James.” The man kept his harsh expression. “Are you having nightmares again?”

“No.” He lied. The woman began to write in her notebook. “Oh, come on. Give me a minute.”

Bucky wasn’t those kinds of people that didn’t believe in Therapy or similar things, he just hated being open about himself. Kenya was literally the one in a million exception. Even without her, this was another stage of his life. It was hard to be that hopeful and positive Bucky from Wakanda, adding the fact he lived at an apartment and practically had no friends. He did everything by himself, and most of the social interaction he gets are only with his therapist.

“You’re not helping yourself, James. You don’t answer my questions, don’t do the tasks I ask or even bother to be honest about your nightmares.” Dr. Raynor remained calm, sensing how he took in her words and assumed guilt. “Can you lend me your phone?” He did as tell, and the woman started to check. “I see you still have the same three contacts. Wilson, Maximoff and me. What a surprise, the only calls you have registered are with me.”

“I… well, they’re busy.” He excused. “Sam’s with the Air Force and Kenya runs a whole Foundation.”

“I think you should call her.” He panicked at the thought of doing so.

“Why?”

“Apart from the fact that it’s the only topic you openly talk about, she’s the only person on Earth that knows you and genuinely cares about you.” There was nothing to respond to that, he knew every word was true. “Also, you cut your hair. Wouldn’t that be something she wants to know about?”

“How would you…?” Bucky was suspicious. “Do you know her?”

“Of course, she was my favorite patient.” The man hit his head with the wall, staring silently at the ceiling. “Back then the only thing she had was an ugly haircut and dangerous powers. Do you know how she started to go forward? Trying, and wanting to try.” After a silent agreement, the woman made her last statement. “For our next session I want you to have called someone that isn’t me. Now you can go.”

He didn’t spend much time thinking about the Blip, at least not more than necessary. It took him decades to be free from Hydra and its manipulation words. For what? To lose another five years thanks to a purple genocide, just when he was starting to feel genuine happiness. The girl he met became the amazing woman he knew she’d be, yet he wasn’t there to witness it. Steve talked to him before leaving, briefly resuming those five years and small things he knew about her life. After walking out the building, Bucky stopped and checked her contact on the prehistoric phone, cursing himself for not pressing a button and silently walking along the streets of Brooklyn.

*

“Alright everyone, here’s how it’s going to be. Rachel’s team goes from Zone A to G with three trucks: food, clothes, and hygiene items. Please remember to provide per head, not place or their size. Next, I’ve managed to get the list with the names and pictures from the missing kids here, so Kyle’s team goes with Rachel’s to search relatives or people that may recognize them. Gina’s team is already wrapping up with the houses so soon enough they’ll need Felix’s team to have already assigned homes to each family. That would lead the shelter to have more capability, so Trisha’s team will have until Monday to prepare for new people. As far as I know everything inside the shelter apart from that it’s in control, so please enjoy your breakfast and once again thank you for being here.” Kenya ended her speech with a smile, that was positively received by the 150 people there.

After chatting with the person in charge of the whole center, she was able to leave Maryland. Basically, she’s been touring around every shelter of the Foundation the last months. Sometimes she went and helped other Foundations, sometimes she went and built new shelters. Instead of going straight back home, the woman decided to stay at an Airbnb for the night. Too tired to travel it was best for her to leave in the morning.

“They rejected the loan?” She asked to the other line, now in more comfortable clothes after taking a shower.

“Mhm. Then five minutes later the TV announces another Captain America. Sam and Bucky already put their noses there.”

“The whole ‘New Cap’ thing wasn’t a joke?” Kenya was shocked. She knew and understood Sam’s reasons to decline the position, but clearly didn’t expect for the government to basically open auditions. “Of course, it’s another blonde and blue-eyed boy.” The girl mumbled, after quickly searching in her phone. “Sarah, why didn’t you tell me about the boat and money? You know I can instantly help.”

“That’s exactly why I didn’t call. You’re helping people going through the unthinkable. We have a home, food, and our family together, which is more than enough.”

“Well, that’s bullshit.”

“Young lady, that mouth!”

“Don’t young-lady me, we’ll figure out later. Send a hug to Cass and AJ from me. I’m definitely investigating about these two dorks getting themselves into trouble.” After talking on the phone, Kenya illegally started to read about the whole Flag Smasher situation, courtesy of Stark technology. Reading a familiar name triggered her guts, so she stopped and decided to rest and figure things out better in the morning. Hours later, the phone ringing was what woke her up.

“Hello?” She whispered, dazed.

“Ms. Maximoff, it’s been a while.” The woman frowned after recognizing the voice.

“Dr. Raynor?” Now standing up, the girl started to walk around the room. “Is everything okay?”

“Don’t worry, this is a friendly call. I thought you’d like to know that two of your friends are in trouble, James has been arrested.”

“Oh, you don’t say.” She feigned surprise. “Missed therapy session?” An approval sound was heard from the other line.

“As a therapist I’m not allowed to give information about a patient. As an acquaintance, traveling to Maryland last minute thanks to Wilson and Barnes is tremendously annoying. So, I’m returning the favor to them given the fact that I know you’re near.” Kenya let out a small laugh.

“Okay, tell me.”

“Baltimore.”

“Marvelous. See you there.”

*

Before entering the Police Station, Kenya decided it was for the best to wait for Dr. Raynor first. When getting there and shortly greeting each other, they went inside. The therapist made her way directly to Sam, who wore his usual unfazed expression that became surprised when recognizing a familiar face.

“Sam, I’ve heard a lot about you. I’m James’s therapist, Dr. Raynor.” The man quickly stood up and shook her hand.

“Thank you for helping us.” Kenya frowned, knowing very well that she wasn’t purposely there. “Little Kenz, seems like you’ve heard the news.” The girl stared unfriendly at him, yet still side hugged him.

“Just wait ‘til Sarah finds out.”

“Christina!” The three of them turned around to an excited Walker.

“That was where the help came from.” She whispered to her male friend. “Did he just ‘Christina’ you?”

“You gotta be kidding me, you know him?” The woman explained that they worked together before. Kenya rolled her eyes and kept her annoyed expression when he got close.

“I heard that you’ve been working with Bucky, so I thought of stepping in. He’s no longer following a strict schedule” The blonde smiled, then turning his attention towards her. “You’re Kenya Maximoff, it’s an honor to finally meet you. I really admire what you’ve done for Silverwitch.”

“It’s Caterina for you.” The black and white haired coldly answered. “And Silverwitch wasn’t done by me, but the volunteers.”

“Well, I haven’t authorized his schedule change. Who did?” The therapist meddled, and Walker cockily pointed at himself.

It was the last thing Bucky needed, being arrested. Now Sam was mad for the whole Isaiah business and John Walker did nothing but make hating him easier. The cops were finally taking him back, apparently Dr. Raynor’s presence had something to do with it. What he did not in fact expect was seeing Kenya next to her, irritation all over her face. He’d bet 20% of it was because of Walker, since the 80% was because of him. It still took him off guard whenever seeing her in person, even more now that she had this bossy aura. Intact straight and long hair, wearing a woman’s black suite with a white top tucked in the pants.

“He’s too valuable to have him tied up, plus him and Wilson have unfinished business with me. I’ll wait outside.” The blonde said, before going away with his partner.

“I don’t respond to any of you, so I’d be glad to punch the captain out of his American face.” Kenya stated to the woman.

“Wait in line.” Sam answered.

“James, you’re here. Now don’t think it’s over, we need a session before releasing you.” After hearing the name, she turned and almost dropped her mouth at the sight. Bucky was wearing regular clothes, a leather jacket matching his gloves and dark jeans. There he stood with a hand in the hip, pretty much tired of having to deal with Dr. Raynor. Oh, and he got a haircut. Kenya never thought he could be more handsome and was proved wrongly. They stared at each other silently, waiting for the other to give up and talk first.

“Sam, you have to come too.” Christina interrupted, and the two of them followed her.

“Don’t worry guys, I can wait.” She cynically smiled.

*

“You do know how to use a phone, right?” She asked as soon as they went out of the guard’s door. Sam went to do a phone call and then to the bathroom, so Bucky and her were alone. “It wasn’t necessary to put yourself in jail to gain my attention and actually talking to me.”

“Well, it apparently worked.” He side-smiled, making the woman’s stomach curl. Yet sill showed indifference, not giving him the satisfaction.

“You got some jokes these few months, it doesn’t look good on you to be honest. I’m the sarcastic and you’re the grumpy. That’s how things work between us. Now, would you please stop getting into trouble?” The words seemed to have effect on him, his expression changing to a mocking one.

“Yeah, sorry. Guess you have more important things to do than being here babysitting a 106-year-old.” He angrily added, starting to walk away. Kenya grabbed him by the arm and gave him a dead look in the eye.

“I’m here because I care about you. I care about the people that I love.” She emphasized. “And I’m sorry if you felt left behind, even more after Steve left knowing I’m the only person you trust besides him. Maybe it was selfish of me to be just fine knowing you’re alive and well. Not like the last five years where I grieved and missed you every damn day. You can get to be mad at me, I don’t care. I know there’s worse things than that. But don’t ever be pity on yourself again, you heard me? You haven’t got this far to become that kind of person, it doesn’t suite you.”

There it was. His common sense speaking right in front of him. Of course he was being an asshole, of course she wouldn’t ignore him or leave him behind on purpose. He was just so done and stressed with the Flag Smashers situation, plus Walker, plus Sam, plus Dr. Raynor, plus… his whole life. She wasn’t fooling around on vacations; she was being as helpful as she could. How stupid can someone be to push away the person he loved most in this world? The only one, perhaps.

“Damn, no. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean what I said.” He admitted, sighing while his hand moved to his front in distress. His face softening for the first time in the day. “It’s just… this is so messed up Kenz. I think the super soldier serum is involved, I’m out of my mind.”

“It’s okay. I mean it’s not, don’t ever talk to me like that again, you force me to be too open about my feelings. But it’s okay. I can help with this too, though. I have my ways to get information, we’ll figure out.” He nodded.

“Alright, let’s see what the jackass wants.” Sam appeared, right on time. The three of them walked out finding Walker and Hoskins near a patrol.

“Karli Morgenthau.” The blonde said, it was the name of the Flag Smasher’s leader. He talked about how the group stole super soldier serum to do things by their own justice. “I think you two should join us, it’s the best way to end up things sooner. And Maximoff, maybe giving your sister a phone call could help too, with her magic or whatever she does.” Feeling how tensed up his comment made her, Bucky took Kenya’s hand to stop her from saying or doing anything regrettable.

“Thanks for the offer, but we’re free agents. Neither Barnes, Kenya nor I follow government orders.” The man stated.

“Okay then.” Walker stood straight and winked at the girl before talking again. “Stay out of out way.” Bucky tightened his grip to her. While walking away, they unconsciously still held hands. It was very unsettling to hear him talking about Hydra, and even more after knowing about Isaiah. As him and Sam talked about what to do, Kenya had already picked up on what Bucky’s mind was planning.

“We need information about the super serum, and we know where we can get it.” He declared.

“Zemo.” The three of them stopped, knowing how risky it was yet necessary.

“Well, it’s like Berlin all over again.” Kenya added, in attempt to light the mood more for herself than the guys. “Just like old times.”

“You’re coming with us?” Sam asked.

“No way.” The soldier alleged. “You can’t leave things behind, and it’s dangerous.”

“Yeah, what about the Italian?” The man added.

“The Italian is still Italian. Also, didn’t know you were my boss.” She humorously stated. “I can protect myself really well.”

“That I know, believe me.” Bucky’s expression acknowledged it. “I’m saying it’s dangerous to use your powers in the public eye.”

“Chances are low because my ass is pretty much safe.” Kenya rested both elbows on each guy’s shoulder. “You’re The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, after all.”

*

Leaving the keys of the apartment in the counter, Bucky sensed it was too silent. He left the grocery bags in the kitchen and proceeded to go to the master bedroom which he never used, yet somehow felt natural to go directly at it. On top of his bed laid a sleeping Kenya, with her hands under the pillow and head lightly tilted to the side. She was using baggy clothes and her long hair was funnily sprayed. He smiled at the sight and took a blanket from the closet to cover her. After lightly removing a strand of hair from her face he decided to leave resting a little longer, but when turning around a hand in his arm stopped him.

“C’mere.” She mumbled, still dozed off.

“Doll, you know I’ve got to cook.” He sweetly answered.

“We can buy Chinese.” She insisted, pulling him strongly enough for her to embrace Bucky in a weird hug, since he was still standing. “Please.” She whispered in his ear, making goosebumps go through the man’s back. Still without answer, Kenya separated herself to look at his blue eyes with mischief in hers, to give a short peck on the lips making him smile. After getting a positive reaction, the girl started giving small pecks through his whole face, making them giggle in the process.

“Why can I never say no to you.” He sighed, taking out his jacket, shoes, and cuddling up with her.

“Because you love me.” She muttered, while adjusting in his chest.

“Because I love you.” He repeated, slowly falling asleep.

“We’re here.” A soft voice threatened to make his eyes open.

“Bucky, we’re here.” The voice insisted, waking up the man from his surprisingly pleasant dream. Unlucky for him, Kenya was the one slightly shaking him. “Are you okay?”

“Y-yeah, just… I was just asleep.” She smiled at his slumbered state. Three of them went out of the car that brought them to Berlin’s correctional facility.

“I realized.” The girl laughed. “You were giggling in your dreams.”

“You genuinely were.” Sam added, as they were walking to the entrance. “I was going to record it, but then thought that it wasn’t something I wanted to hear again, ever.” Bucky rolled his eyes, playfully.

“Well.” He cleared his throat, moving past his nervousness. “Let’s do this.”

Trying to keep his humorless and silent façade, Bucky reflected on the dream. It felt so… right. It wasn’t a surprise for him to feel that way about Kenya, it was pretty much clear they weren’t usual friends yet either were fraternally close. What took him off guard was how real and close to reality everything seemed; his apartment in New York, her being clingy, him saying he loved her. Well, he knew he loved her, but not that he loved loved her. Maybe he didn’t. Maybe he did. Maybe it was just a dream. But now it wasn’t the moment to debate about it, not when he was about to face someone that caused tremendous pain to him, his close ones, and so many people.