This didn't go exactly how he predicted it to be. One moment, he was helping his team to take down Val, the next moment – he was brought up on a pedestal as a member of The New Avengers. Everyone knew it was going to be messy, since there was already another group with the name Avengers. That group included his best friend, Sam, and you.

Bucky never wanted this to happen. He never wanted to be in the middle of a conflict, especially when it was between him and the people he loved. Endless arguments happened with Sam. But that was still something, even if it was an argument – Bucky was relieved that Sam was still talking to him.

You, on the other hand, went radio silent.

'Friends' wasn't the correct word to describe your status with him, almost everyone knew that the two of you had something more. Lingering touches, heartfelt conversations, and thoughtful gestures – he was obviously in love with you.

Your touches and words felt like a distant memory. It had been a year since the New Avengers were assembled, meaning it was a year that Bucky lost you in his life. All because of this mess. Bucky wished you would reach out and yell your heart out at him – he just wanted to see you.

"Smile a bit, Buck," John took a sip of his drink. "It's a celebration after all." He continued. Val threw a party – marking the first anniversary of the group, inviting politicians to celebrities. "This is unnecessary." Bucky replied, eyes lingering on the crowd.

He could see everyone from where he was standing, until his gaze landed on you. You were staring back at him, donning your drink. Though you could hide from the crowd recognizing you, you couldn't hide from his prying eyes.

Time seemed to stop as the two of you continued to stare at each other, unspoken memories flashing right in front of your eyes. He was still waiting for you after all this time. Bucky felt his legs move on their own, going straight to you – tuning out the crowd laughing and talking to each other.