Demolition Lovers
July 4th, 1935
The sound of trash cans banged loudly in the empty alleyway and mingled with the chorus of harsh laughter. “Come on Cohen! Get up.” One of the older boys yelled at him. (Y/N) stared up at him and sent a cold glare that did nothing but spur on their laughter. “What are you gonna do huh? You queer.” He spat at him as he watched (Y/N) pick himself up. Without thinking he launched himself at the boy and punched him square in the nose. He felt a small feeling of glee well up inside him when he heard the loud crack that was followed by the spray of blood that covered his fist. “How’s that for starters, Rich.” He said with false confidence as the boy stumbled back, caught by his two friends. He heard Richard hiss softly as he used his sleeve to wipe the blood away with little effectiveness to it as it continued to stream down his chin, dripping onto his shirt. “Grab him.” he commanded his friends. Before he could react, he found himself roughly grabbed by his arms and forced in place as Richard collected himself. He made his way over to (Y/N) with a cold look in his eyes. He swore to himself under his breath as Richard’s fist connected with his stomach. He gasped for air as he was hit a few more times before Richards' friends dropped him, letting him fall to his knees. Richard took the chance to knee him in the face causing (Y/N)’s head to snap to the side harshly. He was just thankful that he hit his cheek and not his nose. “That all ya got?” (Y/N) said with a defiant tone. Richard scoffed and grabbed him by the jaw, forcing him to look at him. “You never know when to shut up huh?” (Y/N) just smirked slightly before he gathered his bloodied saliva and spit it into Richard’s face. He flinched slightly at the impact before wiping it away with a scowl. He landed another punch to (Y/N)’s face, sending the boy back. He gently propped himself up on his elbows as he looked up at Richard who started to press his foot into his chest, forcing him down a bit more. “Learn ya place, Cohen. Count yourself lucky you ain't dead yet.” As he opened his mouth to say something, a cop rounded the corner, startling the boys. “Hey, what's goin' on here?” The cop asked loudly, causing the three to scatter, running down the opposite end of the alley. (Y/N) let out a breath of relief at the cops approach. As (Y/N) started to push himself up, the cop shook his head a bit at the sight. “You okay kid?” (Y/N) just nodded slightly “Yes officer, thank you.” he said just loud enough for him to be heard. The officer looked him over and sighed slightly. “You know those boys, son?” (Y/N) just shook his head a bit. He knew that even if he did give him their names, nothing could be done and it would be written off, leaving him to deal with the aftermath of the situation. “Well, you better make an effort to take in your surroundings. Don't make a habit of fighting in the streets, yeah?” He asked with an air of faux authority before patting him on the shoulder and walking the same way the boys went. (Y/N) let out a soft sigh before he took a cloth out of his back pocket as he picked up his discarded bags. He started to wipe the drying blood away from his face with a small grimace. He glanced around at the street as he exited the alley, doing his best not to limp much as he made his way through the streets, praying to whatever god up there that he wasn't late for his friend's birthday party.
It took about ten minutes to get to his friend's apartment, being extremely thankful he didn't have to walk longer than that. He took a moment, listening to the music that poured out of the open windows before he knocked on the front door three times and waited a moment before the door swung open. Sarah’s smile flattered slightly when she saw the state he was in. “Hello, Ms. Rogers. I hope I didn't miss anything exciting?” He said in an attempt to brighten the mood he ruined. She sighed softly, shaking her head as she led him into the house. “(Y/N), what happened sweetheart?” She asked softly, leading him into the kitchen as she took the bags from him. “Nothing Ms. Rogers. Just some yucks that caught me on the way over.” She shook her head as she took a damp rag, dabbing at the cut on his brow. “You need to be more careful (Y/N). And how many times do I need to tell you that you can call me Sarah? You're practically one of my own kids at this point. You're over often enough.” (Y/N) just gave her a slightly weak smile. “About a few more times Ma’am. My mama taught me to give women nothing but respect, and you deserve nothing less.” Her heart melted slightly at his words and she gave him a warm smile. It made his day when he was able to pull a real smile from her. He gently pushed her hand away from his face before going over to the kitchen sink. “I really am okay Ms. Rogers. How about you show me how to make your apple pie? I got the ingredients you asked for.” he said softly as he washed up and prepared to help her cook. She let out a laugh as she unpacked the bags (Y/N) brought, placing everything on the counter top. “You can blame the nurse in me for worrying so much.” He dried his hands off, being careful not to touch anything dirty. “Of course Ma’am. I don't blame you for worrying, I show up here bloodied often enough.” he said as he started to peel the apples she started to rinse off. “Which is a bad enough habit you have.” He just gave her a slight shrug and a small laugh, even though it hurt his split lip.
They had just finished setting up the place together when the front door opened. “Ma, we’re home.” he heard his friend call out as he stepped into the apartment. While Sarah went to greet the boys, (Y/N) stayed in the kitchen, cleaning up their mess. He wasn't about to let Sarah clean everything by herself. He was half way done when a hand settled on his shoulder, pulling him into someone and into a side hug. He let out a small huff, not even having to look up at who it was. “Hey Buck.” he said softly as Bucky smiled at him. “I knew I heard you in here. Come on, join in on the festivities!” he said a bit too enthusiastically for his liking but nodded a bit anyway. “Sure sure, let me just finish this up first, okay?” Bucky nodded a bit before moving to the side a bit, leaning against the counter as he watched him. “(Y/N).. who busted up your face this time?” He said quietly but (Y/N) just shrugged. “You should see the other guy. Honestly Buck, is not that big of a deal.” Bucky shook his head and huffed in annoyance. “You're always getting into something kid.” he said, causing (Y/N) to let out an indignant scoff. “Just because you're a few months older, doesn't mean you get to keep callin' me kid!” he said trying to sound annoyed but his complaint fell short when he saw Bucky's face go serious. “Seriously, who did it?” (Y/N) sighed softly before turning the water off and drying his hands off. “Richard and his friends. It’s fine, really. They hardly touched me, Bucky.” Before he could complain further, (Y/N) left the kitchen to go meet up with Steve and his mother. “Happy birthday Stevie.” (Y/N) said with a smile, causing his lip to reopen slightly. Steve gave him a grin of his own, accepting the hug before patting him on the back. “I helped your mom bake that pie you like so much.” He saw his eyes light up a bit as he let out a small laugh. “You two didn't have to. You know that.” (Y/N) just shrugged and gave him a smirk. “But we wanted to. 'Sides, I like learning how to cook and your mom is the best teacher I could ever ask for.” he said before laughing softly at Sarah’s fond smile. “I mean, after all, knowing how to do that is really the basic life skills, ain't it?” Sarah nodded a bit. “Of course it is, sweetheart. It's never too late to learn either.” She said as she looked over at Bucky who put his hands up in defiance. “I know enough to get by Ms. Rogers.” (Y/N) rolled his eyes a bit. “Boiling everything isn't “Enough to get by” and you know it. Just because everyone likes to take the easy way out and boil most things, doesn't mean you boys have to as well.” (Y/N) said with a small smirk at his jab at Bucky and Steve. Sarah let out a small laugh and clapped her hands together. “Alright boys, let's start celebrating. The fireworks start at six so we have some time before they begin.” The boys agreed in unison. (Y/N) went to get Steve’s presents, Sarah started to serve the food they cooked together and Bucky changed the record to one of his favorite artists, Glenn Miller. (Y/N) placed the gifts at the end of the table and Steve's face immediately hardened when he saw them. “(Y/N)..I said I didn't want anything.” (Y/N) just smirked and shrugged while setting the table with Sarah. Bucky let out a small laugh at the sight of Steve glowering at (Y/N). “Buck, did you know about this?” He gave him a smirk and that's all Steve needed to know he was very much in on this. (Y/N) rolled his eyes and pushed him into his seat. “Oh quit your bellyaching Stevie. It's your birthday and we wanted to do something nice for you. Sue us.” He said with a smile while Sarah plated the food for the four of them. Steve let out a small sigh and a shake of his head while everyone sat down in their seats. Steve sat next to his mom and (Y/N) and Bucky sat across from them. As they talked over dinner (Y/N) relaxed back in his seat. Bucky spread his legs a bit as he relaxed in his seat, pressing the outside of his leg to (Y/N)s. He gave Bucky a side glance, trying to hide the smile forming on his face as he talked to Sarah.
(Y/N) gave Bucky a small smile while he gathered the dirty dishes. “Dear you don't have to, I can clean up.” Sarah tried to take the dishes from his hands but (Y/N) simply turned the other way on his trek to the kitchen. “No ma'am, I can take care of this. Relax for once, okay?” He said with a laugh before going to the kitchen. “So Steve, go on and open your presents.” Bucky said as he pushed the gifts over to him. (Y/N) smiled to himself as he washed the dishes, listening to Sarah's excited laughter mixing with the music as Steve opened his gifts. He hummed along to the song playing even though it was just music as he rinsed off the dishes, carefully drying them with a hand towel as he went. He almost dropped one of the glass plates when he felt a hand settle on the small of his back and someone gently press into his side. “You need help with those dishes, doll?” Bucky said softly, just loud enough for him to hear. (Y/N) took a moment to register Steve and Sarah in the living room and he let out a small sigh. The last thing he needed was another talk about how what he was doing would be a sin and the whole lecture. “That would be great actually.” He said softly as he passed him a dish towel, letting Bucky dry the dishes as he washed them. “Stevie like the presents?” He said, raising an eyebrow at him. Bucky nodded a bit, being careful with the glass. “Yeah, he really liked the sketch book and pencils. I think he liked those the most actually.” He smiled softly and nodded. “Good good. I thought he would like it. So, plans for tomorrow?” He asked with a head tilt as he stacked the dry dishes. “You remember Michelle, right?” (Y/N) nodded with a fond smile. “Yeah, she's Dot's friend. She's a good dame, I like her.” Bucky nodded as he gently took the dishes to put them away. “Good, cause it's date night.” (Y/N) raised an eyebrow and leaned against the counter top looking at him. “And y'all came to this conclusion when?” He said a bit amused. Bucky let out a soft laugh, standing a bit closer to him and crossing his arms over his chest. “Last night. They couldn't make it to Steve's birthday 'cause their parents wanted to spend the fourth with them, so it was the next best thing. That, and they got a girl they want Steve to meet, he's already agreed to it.” He shook his head with a small smile. “Stevie.. our Stevie is okay with blind flying?” He said with a small laugh causing Bucky to grin a bit. “Well, I figured Steve could use someone, ya know? And she was more than happy to go after I talked him up to her.” He said with a cheeky smile. (Y/N) shook his head a bit. “I guess I have no reasons to decline then. What time and what should I wear?” Bucky looked thoughtful for a moment and paused to make sure he could still hear Sarah and Steve in the living room talking. “Well doll, you look good in just about anything. Surprise me?” He said softly with a wink. (Y/N) felt a small blush rush to his cheeks before he playfully swatted at his arm that Bucky was quick to avoid. “You are so lucky I care about you Barnes.” He said with a laugh. Bucky shook his head with a fond smile. “Be ready by five okay? I'm picking everyone up. Old man gave me the okay for the truck tomorrow night.” (Y/N) nodded a bit and started to mentally prepare his outfit and how the night would go. He was shaken from his train of thought after Bucky had made sure no one was watching and gave his cheek a quick kiss. Before (Y/N) could react, Bucky was out of the kitchen with the still warm apple pie. (Y/N) looked after him with a fond expression before taking four plates and silverware. When he joined them in the living room, there was a comfortable air around everyone. He felt at home, like he belonged. Sarah caught his gaze and gently patted the open seat across from her, urging him to sit. He gave her a sweet smile before joining them, placing the plates and utensils on the table. Sarah happily cut and served the pie, letting Steve take the first slice. “This..is really good. I dunno what it is about you two bein' in the kitchen together but it always churns out the best food.” Bucky said with food in his mouth, holding back a satisfied groan as he ate. (Y/N) snorted softly and shook his head while Sarah smiled sweetly. “While I'm glad you're enjoying the desert, do not talk with your mouth full. Not only is it rude, you could choke.” She said in a softer tone, a bit worried for him. Bucky blushed in slight embarrassment but nodded slightly, swallowing his food. “Sorry ma'am.” He mumbled before taking another bite. As soon as they each had a slice, (Y/N) helped clean up the mess, quickly doing the dishes while Sarah put the pie away. “So, we still have some time before the fireworks start. Would you boys fancy a walk as we head down to see them?” Steve grasped his mother's hand gently and nodded while Bucky got up and started collecting the coats for everyone. “I think that sounds swell Miss. Rogers.” (Y/N) said sweetly before grabbing her coat from Bucky's waiting outstretched hand. He helped Sarah into it despite her protests. He offered her his arm, causing her to let out a small but genuine laugh, making the other boys laugh in return. As they left the house he swore he heard Bucky talking to Steve. “Careful Steve. (Y/N) might become your new father.” He teased Steve as they left, causing Steve to weakly hit Bucky's arm in protest. “Come on Buck.. that's not even close to bein' funny.” He said in a low but irritated tone. He smiled to himself as he walked with Sarah, letting her hold onto his arm for support at times when her heels almost got the better of her. He never understood why dames would rather hurt themselves in heels over being comfortable. But he did have to admit, they looked very lovely in them so he figured that might be why. For style. Bucky and Steve caught up with them as they got closer to where they would be able to see the fireworks from. He led Sarah to the benches, allowing her to sit first knowing that her feet might hurt from the heels. She let out a laugh as she covered her mouth. “Sweetheart, any girl you end up with will absolutely love you and be lucky to have you. You know that right?” (Y/N)'s smile flattered slightly, especially when he met Bucky's eyes for a moment but he gave Sarah a small nod. “That's all I can hope for, ma'am.” He said softly as they all took their seats, opting to sit next to Bucky so Steve could sit next to his mother. As soon as he sat down, Bucky spread his legs a bit so he was touching (Y/N)'s. He let himself relax a bit at his touch as he watched everyone walk around holding hands and laughing. He felt Bucky's pinky brush up against his and he let his smile grow a bit more, still cautiously watching their surroundings. He met Bucky's eyes for a moment and gave him a subtle wink before he got up. “I'm getting us some snacks, any objections?” He said not waiting for a response knowing Steve would say he was all set. Bucky was quick to follow behind him, stating “He's gonna need some help carrying everything back.” (Y/N) held in his laughter so he wouldn't draw any attention to himself as Bucky quickly met his walking speed. “So, I was thinking. Family is staying over at an uncle's house tonight and won't be back till afternoon tomorrow.. would you care to spend the night?” Bucky said softly so only he could hear him as he walked with his hands in his pockets. (Y/N) shook his head slightly as they got in line for food. “Buck.. you know I can't. My father..” he trailed off not really wanting to say it out loud. Bucky stiffened slightly at the mention of (Y/N)’s father but nodded, keeping his charming smile. “I know doll. I still wanted to ask you though.” He let out a half hearted laugh as they got to the stand. (Y/N) ordered everyone's treats, sodas, fried dough and ice cream, refusing to let Bucky help pay. “You can help by carrying it back. I got the cost covered.” He stated before paying the man, grabbing what he could without dropping anything. Bucky helped to carry the rest back to their spots, walking as close as he could manage to (Y/N) without it seeming odd to strangers. (Y/N) felt proud when he saw how Steve and Sarah's faces lit up a bit. As soon as everyone had their treats and the two were seated, Steve spoke up. “How much I owe you?” He asked after taking a bite of his ice cream. (Y/N) just shook his head a bit as he picked at his fried dough. “Absolutely nothing Stevie.” (Y/N) cut him off as he opened his mouth to protest. “No, don't you dare. It's your birthday Steven. Let me do this, yeah?” They stared at each other for a moment, seemingly having a conversation, or for better words an argument, with their eyes till Steve huffed slightly and broke eye contact while (Y/N) smiled in his small victory. “Fine. Just this once, got it?” Steve said slightly upset with losing the argument. (Y/N) just nodded, knowing that he would win any and all future arguments. “Sure Stevie. Sure.” He said while pressing his leg back to Bucky's, making the boy smile in return. Only a few more minutes passed as they all sat and enjoyed each other's company before the fireworks started. He let his hand find Bucky's under the cover of the night and the distraction that the fireworks provided. Bucky held his hand without hesitation, giving it a comforting squeeze making (Y/N) smile softly, getting lost in his thoughts as he let his guard down for once. Bucky felt a bit bold after making sure no one had eyes on them and gave the back of (Y/N)'s hand a soft quick kiss before holding it closer to him. (Y/N) felt his heart flutter at both the sweet gesture and the rush he got from the possibility of anyone seeing them. He let a small laugh escape him, the sound being drowned out by the crack of the fireworks overhead. He was willing to let himself fall into the comfort of the moment, ignoring everything around them. When the show ended, Bucky and him walked Steve and his mother home, making sure they got in safely. They stayed a moment to talk before giving Sarah a quick hug and Steve a side hug as they pat his back softly before starting to take off before it got too late. “Happy birthday again Stevie.” He whispered softly as Sarah went to the living room to relax. Steve gave him a soft smile. “I.. Thank you (Y/N), for everything. I'll see you tomorrow?” He nodded a bit as he shoved his hands in his pockets. “Yeah. I'll be there, don't worry. Be safe, punk.” He said with a smile before he started to walk away, meeting up with Bucky on the sidewalk. “You too, Jerk.” (Y/N) let out a loud laugh before waving goodbye as he walked out of Steve's view. As they walked down the quiet and empty street, Bucky walked close enough to brush his arm up against (Y/N)'s as they made their way to his place. “You take care tonight, okay? And don't forget date night with the dames tomorrow.” He said with that sweet lopsided smile of his as they walked up to his door. (Y/N) nodded with a sweet smile, gently bumping into him before opening the door. “I wouldn't dream of missing it, Buck. Don't worry.” He said softly trying to hold back the smile that was fighting to show on his face. Bucky gave him his flirty smile and nodded. “I'll be seeing you, doll. Sleep well.” (Y/N) gave him a subtle wink and a small nod before opening the front door. “See you tomorrow Barnes. Good night.” He said before walking into his house. Bucky left with the sweetest smile on his face while (Y/N) took a moment to relax before making his way further into the house. As he hung his coat up on the rack, his father's voice could be heard from behind him. “Why are you out so late (Y/N)?” He demanded as he walked up to him. (Y/N) hardly batted an eye at him but remained passive. “I had asked for your permission this morning to visit my friend for their birthday and to watch the fireworks this evening, sir.” He said in a mild tone while avoiding his father's eyes. The man grunted slightly, letting (Y/N) move past him, trying to make his way up to the stairs. “Why was there a boy with ya. Dropping you off like you're some broad.” He said in a harsh deep tone causing (Y/N) to pause. He slowly turned around and offered him a nervous smile. “He just wanted to make sure I got home is all. We talked about a double date, he's setting me up with Dot's friend. She's a sweet dame, sir.” He heard the man scoff loudly before making his way over to him. “For your sake, you better be telling me the truth. You better not have that boy back on my property again or I will make you wish you weren't born.” He shoved him and he went up the stairs, causing (Y/N) to go tumbling down the few steps he managed to go up. His breath caught in his chest as his father spoke again. “Bring me up a glass of Scotch before you get your ass to bed, boy.” He mumbled a quiet “Yes sir.” Before quietly rushing to get his father his drink. He chilled it with some ice how he liked it before going to his room. He gave three knocks before he heard a muffled “come in.” He took a deep breath and entered his room, setting his drink on his night table before leaving quietly, not leaving his father time to change his mind. He settles into bed, listening for his father to fall asleep before he lets himself drift off into a dreamless sleep.