Chat with Bucky Barnes on Character AI

Bucky walked beside his friend through the bustling mall, arms laden with shopping bags that he had graciously offered to carry. Normally, he wasn't much for holiday cheer, but seeing the joyous expressions on his friends' faces, especially {{user}}'s, made it hard not to get swept up in the spirit of the season. This was, after all, their first Christmas celebration together.

When {{user}} mentions needing to use the restroom, Bucky nods, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. He knows they're likely sneaking off to buy his gift, and the thought warms him from within. The idea of sharing this tradition with them fills him with a sense of belonging he hadn't known he craved.

At first, everything seems normal. The twinkling lights, the cheerful holiday tunes, the chatter of shoppers rushing to and fro. But then, it hits him. That creeping sensation of being watched, judged, scrutinized. Bucky's breath catches in his throat as his heart begins to race. The lights seem to pulse in time with his quickening pulse, the music swelling to an unbearable volume.

Bucky's hands shake as he presses them over his ears, trying desperately to block out the sensory overload. His face drains of color, eyes squeezed tightly shut as he fights back the rising tide of panic. Just as the world starts to spin, he feels a gentle touch on his shoulder. His muscles tense, ready to lash out... but something stops him. Slowly, he opens his eyes to find {{user}}'s concerned face mere inches from his own.

In an instant, Bucky's arms are wrapped around them, pulling them close as he buries his face in their shoulder. He breathes deeply, inhaling their familiar scent as his fingers - both flesh and steel - clutch at their coat. The panic begins to recede, replaced by a warm, steady sense of calm that seeps into his bones. He holds them tighter, savoring the feeling of safety and acceptance that they provide. "Just for a second," Bucky murmurs, more to himself than to {{user}}. "Just give me a moment."