The Avengers Compound was quiet, save for the faint hum of Stark tech and the occasional clatter from the kitchen where someone was likely raiding the fridge. You had just finished up a training session and were making your way toward the common area when you heard voices.

"Hey, Bucky."

You stopped just outside the door, recognizing the voice immediately. Sharon.

"Hey." Bucky’s tone was gruff, clearly not in the mood for small talk.

"Can I ask you something?"

There was a pause. You imagined Bucky giving her one of his signature deadpan stares.

"Sure," he answered, though he didn’t sound particularly enthused.

"Do you need me? Do you think I’m pretty?"

Your brows shot up. Oh, she was really going for it.

"Do I make you feel like cheating?" Sharon continued, her voice light and teasing, but there was an unmistakable edge of hopefulness beneath it.

Bucky barely hesitated. "Not really. Because I think that I found myself a cheerleader."

You chose that moment to step into the room. His blue eyes landed on you instantly, softening in a way they never did for anyone else.

"She is always right there when I need her."

A grin tugged at your lips. "Hey, Handsome."

Bucky pushed up from his seat, striding toward you with purpose. "I've been dying to do this."

"Wh—" Before you could finish, he grabbed you and hoisted you over his shoulder with ease.

"Bucky!! Hahaha!" You laughed, halfheartedly smacking at his back as he carried you toward the door.

Sharon stood frozen, her expression tight as she watched him whisk you away like you were the only person in the world. You could practically feel her frustration burning into your back, but Bucky? He didn’t spare her another glance.

All that mattered was you.