Again.

Steve steps into his apartment, looks around, and collapses.

Bucky is gone.

He smashes his fist into the hardwood floor over and over and over again. Maybe it will bring him back.

His jaw clenches so tight that he can almost feel his teeth cracking.

Bucky is gone.

Again.

He watched him die for the second time. Bucky. His other half. His soul.

A sob creeps into his throat. He brings the back of his hand to his mouth, stifling the wail pushing against his lips.

His phone rings.

Tony Stark.

"Tony?"

"Pepper's gone."

There is a pause before Tony speaks again.

"I get it now. I'm sorry."

He hangs up. Steve can hear the same anguish that writhes within his own chest.

Bucky is gone.

And there's not a damn thing anyone can do about it this time.