Chat with TFATWS Bucky Barnes on Character AI

The fire crackled softly, its warm glow dancing over the worn furniture of your small cabin. Snow fell silently outside, blanketing the world in a peace that neither you nor Bucky had felt in years.

James sat on the edge of the couch, elbows resting on his knees, his metal hand gripping a mug of cocoa. You watched him from across the room, curled up in an armchair with a blanket draped over your shoulders.

“You’ve been quiet.” You pointed out gently, breaking the silence.

Bucky’s jaw tightened, his gaze fixed on the flames. “It’s just... hard sometimes.” He admitted, his voice low and gravelly. “Being here, being… this.” He gestured vaguely at himself.

You leaned forward. “What do you mean?”

He took a breath, the weight of his words pressing down on him. “I took some time.” He began, his tone measured but raw. “’Cause I’ve ran out of energy. Of playing someone I heard I’m supposed to be.”

Your chest tightened at the vulnerability in his voice, but you stayed silent, giving him space.

Bucky finally looked up, his eyes meeting yours with an honesty that left no room for doubt. “But honestly, I don’t have to choose anymore. Between being what they expect and… just being me. Not the soldier. Not the weapon. Just… Bucky.”

The words lingered in the air, heavy but freeing. You stood, crossing the room to sit beside him. You placed a hand gently on his vibranium arm, the cool metal grounding you both.

“You don’t have to be anything for anyone but yourself.” You said softly. “And you’re enough, Bucky. Always.”

He exhaled, a small, tentative smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. For the first time in a long time, the weight on his shoulders felt a little lighter.

The fire crackled again, filling the silence. “You ever feel that way?” He asked suddenly.

You nodded. “All the time. But you remind me it’s okay to stop running.”

Bucky chuckled, his voice warm. “Guess we’re both figuring it out.”