A/N

Okay, sorry this is 10 days after the second chapter. I got major writer's block. Towards the end I've started to experiment with things more, and maybe close any opportunities some things may have presented, and that's fine with me.

R&R? It fuels the darkness in my soul.

There are added chapter transitions "oOo" to make it easier to read.

Steve woke up in the same place he had before. A white room, with white walls, flooring, and ceiling. A stiff white bed with nothing but sheets, no pillow, and an iron-barred headboard. A ceiling fan spun on a low setting above, the dim light flickering as the entire fixture shook with the movements. Steve sat up as slowly as he could, trying to avoid the nausea from last time, his head kindly reminding him with a pounding headache. Letting his gaze sweep over the room, Steve saw the radio was still on it's place on the dresser, however the device was smashed. That was unnerving enough, but when Steve saw a dark figure in the corner of the room by the door, he felt like the person was suspicious in their completely black garb. Long bangs were covering most of the person's face, but Steve recognized the gray eyes staring at him underneath the bangs. Trying to ignore the person's glare, Steve took in their appearance. A mix of leather and spandex clung tightly to his body, military-style boots that reached only a few inches below his knees, with gun holsters on his hip. There also appeared to be a dagger tucked under his belt, the handle of the weapon gleaming in the lighting of the room. His vest almost looked like a black leather version of a 1940's straight-jacket. The vest appeared to close along the right side of his torso, likely velcro. He was wearing biker-style gloves. The only visible flesh on the man was his face, and even then it was barely anything. He was wearing a mask, that covered everything neck-up to his cheekbones. His body language was trying to express his discomfort at being wedged in a corner, while his eyes expressed intrigue with Steve. Steve noticed a few seconds later the figure in the corner is a demon, if the cat-like ears atop his head and the tail slowly swaying behind him was any indication. Steve met the demon's gaze as calmly as he could, observing as the beast tilted his head backwards to look down upon him. The demon was reaching their left hand into their pocket, pulling out a vial. It was filled with a rich maroon color, the liquid glowing faintly. There were specks of dark blue floating inside like gold flakes. The demon approached him, his every step silent. The movements were too smooth for Steve to believe possible. The way the demon walked had a certain sway, eyes never leaving the blond. He held out the vial for Steve to take, no emotions within those stormy gray orbs of his.

"You said you wanted a blood sample from me." The demon's voice was low, rich, and so sensual even if it was muffled by the mask. Steve took the vial from the demon with caution, before becoming completely entranced by it. He held it closer to his face, squinting at the liquid. The dark blue specks were like anomalies, accompanied by miniscule, near microscoptic strands of green mixed into the maroon liquid. The demon's blood was begging to be analysed. Steve's gaze flickered up to the demon, who had been watching his every movement, expression, and reaction like a hawk. Steve was going to voice his thanks to the demon, until he remembered who he was talking to. The gap that had been in his memories over recent events filled itself, the term 'demon' being replaced by a name.

"Thanks, Buck. I.. uh.. sorry if I triggered some bad flashback or something." Steve's tone was practically dripping with his apology, the words too thick to be stirred. Bucky looked surprised Steve had remembered him, leaning down and tilting his head. His eyes burned through Steve, the heat of his gaze sending shivers down Steve's spine. Steve placed the vial in this lap, swallowing thickly as he stared at the demon's throat. The collar of Bucky's shirt was pulled down an inch or so by his movements, exposing the marred flesh. It was reddened with irritation, likely from Bucky trying to remove the mask. There was a scab that resembled a claw mark on Bucky's throat, like something had tried to dig their claws into him quite literally. Steve tore his gaze away from the exposed skin, looking back up into Bucky's eyes. Steve watched for any change in Bucky's expression as he cupped his cheeks, running his thumbs over the leather of the mask. The thin layer of ice melted underneath Steve's fingertips, little clear drops of liquid rolling off the mask. Steve took a deep breath as he pulled the mask off Bucky's face, the enchantment not resisting him as it had for the demon. Steve pulled away slowly, holding the mask close to his chest. Bucky sniffed the air a few times, finally catching a whiff of Steve's scent. He leaned forward, steadying himself by pressing his hands into Steve's thighs. He inhaled the blond's scent as deeply as he could, eyes fluttering shut. Bucky's euphoria was short lasted, broken when Steve brushed his fingers along the demon's jaw. Those blue orbs called Bucky to come closer, the demon pushing himself onto the bed. Steve put the vial and the mask down on the sheets beside him absentmindedly, patting the bed a few times to make sure he wouldn't drop them on the floor. Bucky had crawled onto Steve's lap, hands placed on the blond's shoulders as he set his weight into place. The demon is a lot heavier than he looks, and Steve knew he should have felt breathless from the added weight. The bed creaked, the bedframe groaned under the pressure. Bucky placed a kiss to Steve's forehead, his hands moving to the blond's neck. The pulse drumming under his fingertips soothed him. Bucky had closed his eyes, not looking at Steve.

"Thank you." The way Bucky dreamily whispered to Steve, the blond registered it likely wasn't for removing the mask.

"Uh, yeah. Don't know why they would put it on you in the first-" Steve tried to force the words out, only to be interrupted when Bucky covered his mouth with his right hand. The demon shook his head, eyes fluttering open. Those storm gray orbs were glassed over, rain threatening to fall.

"Not for that. For... saying... I... I'm... y-you... you said I'm not a monster. Thank you." Bucky sounded sincere and doubtful at the same time, the sentence 'I am a monster.' lingering on his tongue. Steve blinked slowly, taking in the demon's words. Something deep in his chest ached at Bucky's inability to see himself for who he was, and still is.

"I meant it, you know. And I'm sorry, for what I said. I didn't mean have anything I said after that, too." If Steve could sound any guiltier than he already did, he certainly felt like he was. Remorse for his own actions, pain lingering in his chest. Those words were the action that hurt the most. That brewing storm in Bucky's eyes finally attacked, the rain from those clouds rolling down his cheeks. Bucky looked like he wanted to leave, push himself away from Steve, and run out the door. Steve couldn't blame him for wanting to leave, yet was surprised when the demon stayed, to his own dismay. He was shaking his head, dark brown locks of hair sticking to his cheek.

"We both know that's a lie, Steve. All of that. All of this. You can believe what you want to belive, and then you're going to run. Find what I'm made of and you'll be gone. You already are. You aren't happy with me- you don't even want me around. Who the fuck are you trying to joke with, Steve?" Bucky's broken voice had gradually morphed to anger, his tears still falling one after another.

"Stop pretending, Steve. You're just keeping me around to put the pieces together. To remember. I don't mean anything." Steve had dodged the demon's gaze, rather staring at his chest. Tight, bound leather constricting his chest. Underneath all that, was just another broken body with scars hidden by illusions the demon would use. Bucky didn't want Steve to see what he was, Steve knew this. Sighing as quietly as he could, Steve placed one hand on Bucky's hips to steady the demon, and another on his chest. Underneath all that leather, his palm would be over the demon's heart. Bucky relaxed from his touch, but his facial expression was still one of betrayal.

"I know. And neither do I." A little whisper of agreement, that's all Steve could supply the demon with. Bucky shook his head, removing his hands from Steve to wipe his face. He had already stopped crying, shutting himself from the outside world all over again. He sniffled just as he met Steve's gaze, so many emotions burning in those orbs.

"You... are everything to me, so you're not nothing." Bucky clarified, raising his head look down on Steve. He already was able to from sitting in the blond's lap, pulling the two closer together. Steve's cheeks with dusted with a blush, pale skin reddening. His cheek was pressed against the demon's chest, Steve feeling slightly squished.

"Let's stop with the games already, Steve. Why did you let me stay?" Bucky rubbed soothing circles on Steve's back. The gesture was calming, however Bucky's words were not. The demons that craved knowledge deep within his mind were fought by the horrifying monsters within his heart, emotion winning this round. Steve shimmied out of Bucky's grasp only by a fraction, looking up at the demon. He met Bucky's gaze, those blood-shot, stormy gray eyes brimming with curiosity. Steve wanted answers just the same as Bucky did, if not more.

"I... there.. it's... complicated. I... you're... you're familiar, I know you. While everything prior to... I don't know what, I just woke up in this room one day with no memories. I get sent to Natasha, and kept in her and Clint's care for a year or so. In the meantime I got a PhD in demonology, and a teaching license. When you were there, after I studied for far too goddamn long, it was like someone just pulled me underwater to watch me drown. What was holding me down was not knowing what I was feeling when I saw you. Everything hurt, watching you be in pain... it... fuck, that hurt like hell. My heart's clearly saying 'Hey, I know him!' and I'm falling in love with a stranger. The logical side of my brain is saying 'a person from our past, maybe they can help us remember things' and saying I should let you stay. But another logical side is saying I don't know you, I don't know anyone or anything. Dwelling on the past is... it could lead to.. something that might..." Bucky listened to Steve's elaboration as intently as he could, hugging the blond as tightly as he could. Steve grew quieter and less confident with every word, ended with an unfinished sentence that didn't have the grace to finish. Bucky hummed in thought, Steve's hair tickling his chin. Steve melted into the embrace, hugging the demon.

"So... you want to know what you're feeling, without learning too much about the past?" Bucky summarized Steve's words, earning a nod from the blond. Bucky didn't give Steve a chance to respond, rather cupping the blond's cheek to pull him for a kiss.

"You're Steven Grant Rogers, the man I fell in love with at fourteen. We're also childhood friends, we've fought in a war together, and it turns out you'd been practically worshipping me since I was your only friend. But aside from that, gods you were head over heels for me. It may have been viewed as wrong during the times we lived in, but neither of us gave two shits. Kept our relationship a secret, 'cept when it came to your ma. Told her everythin'. You finally being open about loving someone- who loved you just as much, hell that was the best thing she'd ever heard. So if you're curious, proffessor, you're reacting to the released chemicals in your brain that create that silly little feeling called love. And it's for me. Surprise?" Steve scoffed, buring his face in Bucky's chest to hide his own embarrassment.

"Any other day I'd tell you to get out with your nonsense, but from the way being around you feels... it... yeah, I don't doubt that." Steve murmured the words against the demon's chest, nostrils assaulted by the scent of cured leather. Steve could feel the rippling muscles underneath the vest everytime Bucky shifted him in his arms. Steve was encased by the demon's warmth, even if he had shown control over ice magic. Steve furrowed his eyebrows, loosely keeping his hands on Bucky's hips. The demon generally felt cold. Lifting his head from Bucky's chest, Steve tried to understand the demon's expression. Bucky wasn't showing much emotion, except the blazing intensity burning in his gray orbs. A flickering beacon of light, shining dimly amongst the darkness. Questions floated in Steve's mind, pieces of driftwood being swept along the shores. He opened his mouth to speak, get just one of those questions of his mind, and found nothing but silent queries. A few seconds later, he was able to form something.

"What was it like?" It was simple, really. The easiest thing Steve could pull from the swarming depths of his mind, underneath all of those hurtful, personal questions. This, was the calmest query he could manage. Drawn by an uncanny amount of interest, Steve was captivated by the way Bucky's eyes fluttered shut, the demon humming in thought. Bucky tilted his head to the side by a fraction of an amount, his hair cascading over his shoulder. Bucky's hands paused rubbing circles on Steve's back, fingers lingering on his spine for a few seconds before returning to traveling up and down the muscles of Steve's back. Steve waited with held breath for Bucky's response, blue orbs focusing on every subtle change of the demon's expression. A riptide of emotions washed over Bucky, anger, fear, regret, disgust, and finally remorse. The changes left as quickly as they came, Bucky's face returning to a passive, default expression. His eyes opened the moment he spoke, gray gaze sweeping over Steve.

"It was interesting, to say the least." Steve scrunched his nose up at Bucky's long-awaited answer, nothing but disappointment flowing through his veins. He felt disappointed in Bucky's answer, and he felt disappointed in himself for expecting more. Steve relaxed when he felt the ghost of the demon's lips touch his eyes, Bucky lightly pressing a kiss to each. When Steve opened his eyes, he saw Bucky regarding him with curiosity. That half-lidded gaze that spoke everything yet nothing at the same time, all Steve could rely on was the formed bond between them. It hummed with mutual understanding- Bucky's answer was a disappointment to himself as well.

"I know what you meant; I want to tell you everything, but I can't." Bucky's eyes flashed with something Steve couldn't place his finger on, but he could tell when the look converted into a thousand-yard stare. Without giving Steve a chance to reply, one of Bucky's hands left the blond's back to gesture to a camera in a top right corner of the room. Right above the window, angled at the door. Steve's vision followed to the camera, grimacing when he saw the little red light blinking above the lens. They were recording him.

"Why the hell do they have to record me?" Steve pushed away from Bucky, narrowing his eyes at the device that continued to blink defiantly. Bucky slowly left his lap, settling for sitting on the bed by his feet.

"You're dangerous." Bucky's words lacked their usual heat when describing Steve, his tone rather honeyed. He was summarizing, and being blunt about it.

"What's so dangerous about me? I'm nothing but a proffessor. I teach things. Sure, I can be dangerous to demons, but that's about it." Bucky's body language subtly changed from Steve's words, his aggravation flowing with every word. Bucky turned slightly to face Steve, eyes glazed over in contemplation.

"I could show you." Bucky slowly spoke and emphasized on each word, hoping to catch Steve's interest. When the blond tore his gaze from the camera to the demon's features, he knew he had piqued the blond's curiosity. The way Steve's blue orbs shone already said the question he wished to have answers for. 'How?' With a deep sigh, Bucky pointed to his head. Wisps of ethereal magic spun around his fingertips, a silvery, translucent light. There was a pull on Steve's subconscious, memories threatening to spill forth.

"But you have to go to sleep. After what happened... a few days before, I'm not taking the risk of you shutting down like that again." Steve nodded at this, eyes still glued to the energy swirling around Bucky's fingers. Steve's brain hadn't registered the demon was moving closer until he was pressed against the bedsheets, Bucky sitting in his lap. One hand was placed on his chest, keeping him down. The demon's left hand was still encased in energy, even as his fingers ghosted over Steve's eyes. Within seconds, the blond was captured by the dark tendrils of sleep, yet a vivid image played in his mind.

oOo

It was a dimly lit museum, with the attractions having spotlights shone on them. A grandiose painted mural seemed to be a major attraction, with hundreds of people passing by to take photos on their cellphones, or even high-quality cameras. Steve recognized two of the people on the mural- Bucky, and himself. The others were a fading, distant memory. Steve barely registered that they were in a thinning veil between dimensions- unseen to the human eye, but to a trained demon, they were clearly visible. Steve turned to Bucky, colors of surprise painted on his face. The demon was staring at the mural of himself, looking forlorn and lost all at once.

"I'm tired of secrets. I know... I know that neither of us wants to dwell on the past, remember anything... but, you have to know some things." Bucky didn't look to Steve, yet his words hung in the air, heavy and thick with emotion.

"I won't say... or show, too much. I promise." Bucky does finally look at Steve, tearing his gaze away from the mural almost painfully, in a lingering sense.

"Buck..." Steve began, but was cut off before he could say anything else when the demon shook his head.

"It's important. It.. we're... you... you're important. This... this is important too." Bucky tugged on Steve's wrist, pulling him away from the mural. The blond followed compliantly, letting Bucky lead him to a glass monument. A white image of Steve was on it, along with writing on to the side. Bucky gestured to it with his free hand, attention already elsewhere and ready to drag Steve over to the next monument. Steve read the words slowly, carefully. 'Captain America'... that part sounded just as important as every detail before and after it, but stood out painstakingly against everything else. Steve glanced to Bucky momentarily, noticing those glowing gray orbs were focused on him, a silent query to move on. Giving the demon a nod, Steve was just as silent with the way he walked as Bucky was. Steve cringed on an instinctual level when he saw a short-haired version of Bucky, white on glass just like Steve's monument was. Warning signals flashed in the blond's mind, a flurry of images coming to the surface. Ghostly lingering feelings over his skin, of cold pale lips on his shoulder. A mumbling, confused mess of words from those lips, the horror and trauma that had reflected in them. How perfectly he once fit into the brunet's arms, and how the brunet now perfectly fit into his. Steve was thrown off by this, not reading the words at all. He simply stared, mouth open in shock. His mind and his words seemed to work on their own, Steve not truly comprehending what he was saying.

"Sergeant James Barnes, the 107th. Shipping out for England, first thing tomorrow." Steve parroted Bucky's tone from so many, many years ago. Faking his excitement, rather fear and anxiety underlacing the tone.

"You... remember that?" Bucky's eyes lit up with curiosity, his attention redirected from the monument of himself to Steve. The blond slowly turned to him, expression as bland and lifeless as he felt.

"Yeah... You kicked some guy in the ass, literally, and then... some... conversation. You looked scared for a few seconds, but clicked your heels together and looked like a little kid on Christmas day. Looking back on it from a different perspective... it looks like you were trying to be everything I wanted to be, even if you were... terrified." Bucky gave Steve a small hum as a response, bringing the blond's wrist to his lips. He left a lingering kiss there, brushing his lips against Steve's pulse only momentarily. Steve tried to ignore the way his heart fluttered in his chest at the demon's actions, but only found himself spiraling further into the darkness that threatened to consume him. Memories were unimportant, unnecessary. When Bucky's gaze finaly met Steve's, it was full of nothing for adoration for Steve. Not the person he was before, not the icon he was before... it's for the person he is, now.

"I think I was... the most horrified in my life when I saw your expression as I fell from the train. I wasn't scared of dying, I was..." Bucky removed Steve's wrist from his lips, rather tracing his palm with a thumb. He stard at it comtemplatively, wracking his mind to put words together.

"I was scared of what it'd do to you. But... what was going through my mind... 'Thank god it's me and not you.' I guess I was... selfish? You still meant more to me, even when I supposedly 'died'. Hell, not even seventy years of torture, brain-washing, and literally hell could stop me from thinking about you." The demon's confession through Steve off-guard, his heartbeat drumming against his ribcage as painfully as the day Steve had 'met' the demon in his dreams. Every influenced memory was beginning to return to him, little pieces put back together easier, and less painful than Natasha's treatments ever could.

"I... shit. If I could survive crashing a plane into ice... I coulda... I coulda... survived jumping after you." Steve's tone was full of his guilt and his regret, eyes fluttering shut as tears threatened to surface. He didn't want to appear weak, not now. Bucky looked up from Steve's palm, interlacing their fingers together as a distraction for the both of them.

"No. Your body may have... carried on, but your mind wouldn't. You wouldn't be- I... I can't ever, ever fuckin' let you go through what I went through. Being twisted, manipulated- changed. They fucked errythin' over, from my DNA to my mind- my personality, who and what I was, and who I am. That can't happen to you." The demon's tone started off strong, demanding, in denial, yet died down to mindless pleading. Their hearts ache in tune with another at the thought of the other suffering, the way the both of them have.

"I wish it was me who fell from that train." Steve blurted out the words without thought, his guilty, remorseful gaze attracted to the old black and white videos from the war. Bucky smiling- laughing at something that had been said. He looked so... beautiful, even without color. Steve could feel the demon's heated, almost frightened stare burning onto his skin. The chatter of people of the museum faded into the background, the two of them slowly being pulled back into their own dimension.

"Why?" The demon tilted his head, an eloquent query all he managed to form. Steve forced himself to look back at Bucky, finding not anger, or even sadness in the demon's eyes. Only curiosity.

"The fall wouldn't have hurt me as much as it would you. Sure, a few broken bones, temporary paralysis, that's about it. In a few hours everything would be back in place, like it never happened. I could just get up, and walk home. And you wouldn't have had to endure what you did." Steve's words rang honestly, an unpleasant drum in their ears. The two of them continued to fade away, along with the surroundings. They were left in a black void for who knows how long.

oOo

When Steve's eyes snapped open, he woke up all together with a sharp intake of breath. His heart beat fast in his chest, his lungs screamed for air. Bucky's hand was still pressed to his chest, the demon's eyes glowing in the dimming light of the room. He looked in pain, but also like he was deep in thought. The expression confused Steve minimally, however the blond chose to ignore the feeling. There was an ache deep in his bones, only soothed when Bucky leaned down to press a kiss to his lips. Whatever words Bucky had chosen to tuck away for the time being taunted Steve, answers and questions he might never hear. The demon's silence was short lived, however.

"No, you wouldn't. Hydra had been trackin' me a long time before I became their experimental pet. I wasn't a pure human, I had demon blood in my veins the day I was born. Not that much, but enough to deter human diseases and have more strength than I should have." Bucky's words were full of confirmation, assessing his own thoughts before they were even registered to Steve.

"Wh-what..?" Came the blond's eloquent reply. Bucky chuckled and said nothing else, only pressing kisses along Steve's jawline. He sighed against the smooth flesh, fingers kneading the blond's thighs. It felt nice... soothing almost. Bucky's ears twitched atop his head, one pointed in the direction of the door, the other tilting downward to focus on nothing but Steve.

"So... Captain 'murica, huh?" Steve spoke primly, raising his head to act proud of the statement, but also to give the demon more access to his flesh. Neither of them had enough tastes of the other, the dying embers slowly flickering to life. The metaphorical flames licked at their flesh, heat surging between the two. Bucky's gaze was content, his guard being let down as he pressed himself as close as possible to Steve. Steve didn't really know what he was doing, what they were doing, yet everything from the moment he said 'Till the end of the line' to the demon had felt right. Every little touch, banter, and shared moment of bliss brought something to life in his veins. Steve managed a small sigh as a tongue flicked against his collarbone, as a hand pulled the collar of his shirt down. Bucky hummed against him, teeth pricking his skin to draw small ruby beads of blood.

"I can be a very sassy side-kick. But ya call me one an' ya will have my foot up yer ass." The demon mused playfully, biting down as roughly as he could on Steve's collarbone. Steve could barely feel any pain at all.

"I would rather have something else up there." Steve watched with amusement as Bucky's cheeks turned fifty shades of red, his eyes widening to add to the expression. Both of the snowy-colored ears atop his head perked upwards, tail waving through the air and brushing against Steve's legs from time to time. Bucky looked like he was geninuely considering it.

"...'kay." Bucky growled out the word lowly, shifting on Steve's lap. Whatever soft, pleasureable intimacy between them quickly dissipated, replaced by the demon's sudden growing arousal. He seemed to really appreciate that idea, and likely wanted to act on it. Shit, Steve's thoughts turned as dirty as Bucky's had.

"N-not now." He stuttered with a small voice, shoving down the thoughts of things turned around for once. Bucky let out a small huff, wiggling in disappointment.

"But... eventually.." More of a statement, rather than a question. Steve resisted the urge to roll his eyes, rather smirking at the demon's uncontained excitement.

"Maaaaaybe." He drawled out the word, smirk turning into a full-blown grin by the time he finished. Bucky retracted his fangs from Steve's skin, offering the blond a form of relief.

"That'd be... fun." The demon breathed out the words dreamily, sitting up as he did so. Steve took notice the way his ears were discreetly angled towards the door, presumably listening. Steve rose a few seconds afterwards, Bucky pressing to his chest almost protectively. The demon was trying, and failing, to act naturally. He was staring at the door, ears flattening slightly yet still attentive. Tail thrashing against the bed in irritation, and a low, rumbling growl building in his chest. The demon's claws were tearing into the fabric of Steve's shirt, fingers curling against his chest. He was pushing him away, yet pulling him closer at the same time. It was confusing and endearing all at once. Bucky pulled his lips back in a snarl the second the door opened, a low and guttural growl rising from his throat. Steve spared the man in the doorway a sideways glance, hands resting on Bucky's hips. The brunet remained tense, even under Steve's touch. He voiced his dislike for the blond man in the doorway quite clearly, only quieting when Steve shushed him.

"Secretary Pierce, pleasure to meet you... both." Pierce's words were honeyed, dripping with a too prideful tone. Like the demon angry at his pressence was amusing.

"Captain... and... Winter Soldier." Bucky only tensed further, his entire body going rigid as he was silented from Pierce's words. The tone at the end seemed to scare Bucky by an unimaginable amount, and the demon barely registered himself clinging to Steve. Steve was dislikin- no, he was hating the way Bucky was reacting to the Secretary. He wrapped his arms securely around the demon, providing him with a small safe haven.

"I'm here to escort you both to the debriefing room." The man continued in that odd, primly tone. Bucky practically melted into Steve, glaring at the Secretary through his dark bangs. His cheek was pressed to Steve's chest, the vibrations from every heartbeat his only reminder that Pierce couldn't do anything to him... yet. The thought alone sickened him, his stomach clenching in an unsettling way. Steve barely made a sound as he scooped Bucky up into his arms, the demon wrapping his legs around his waist. Steve followed the Secretary out of the room, expression dark with a burning, unknown anger for the man. It could have warmed the demon if he wasn't so terrified.

oOo

Steve let out a breath he didn't know he had been holding when Pierce held open the door into the debriefing room, but didn't follow them in afterwards. Bucky shakily left Steve's arms, feeling less anxious and disturbed now that the man was out of sight. He shoved his hands into his pockets, ignoring Steve as much as he could. Multiple sets of eyes were on them, mostly on Steve. Bucky knew all of the people in the room, he'd met them before, if it could even be called that. More like... introduced, when he was chained and locked in a cell while his mentality was being checked for any more bloodlust. He could name each and every one of them, just off the tip of his tongue. Tony Stark. Natasha Romanova. Clint Barton. Bruce Banner. Nick Fury. Maria Hill. Pietro and Wanda Maximoff. Some of them had their eyes glued to Steve, each little pairs of orbs glowing with amazement. Steve shifted awkwardly under the gazes, yet reluctantly met Fury's. The man gestured to the seat next to Natasha, no expression readable on his face. Bucky did not like that. He hated it.

"Take a seat next to Agent Romanova, Rogers." Fury had an indirect, commanding and proffessional tone. Steve followed the order mechanically, the way the words were spoken causing something in him to comply without question. Bucky let out a low growl, quiet enough for none other than Natasha to hear. She peered over her shoulder to give him a wicked, fanged grin. Her lips as bright red as her hair, an eye-catching and deeply aggravating color. Bucky bared his fangs at her, the demoness barely batting an eye as she turned away. Bucky calmed, if only by a marginal amount, when Wanda turned to look at him with as much discretion as she could muster. She felt geniune concern for the demon, rivaling the amount Steve felt at that moment.

"Now that everyone important is present, let's begin on the topic of your breakdown and how your demon went rampant three days ago." Fury stated the assessment clearly, in that annoying, high tone of his. He made the decision that Bucky was to be ignored, and everyone except Wanda did so. She didn't even look at the Director, only at Bucky. Her eyes flashed red, pulling the demon's attention to her. Pity is what she had to offer him, and Bucky would have accepted the gesture if he didn't feel so empty and lost at that moment. Steve hadn't turned to even look at him once, every once of warm, comfortable feelings drowned by his need to obey orders. It made the demon sick to his stomach.

"By all means, sir, I was fired at from at least fifty feet away, by a trained sniper with a very clear mission. The 'rampant' demon you so kindly announce as was the only person capable of saving my life at that moment." So formal, so defiant, the way Steve spoke sent shivers down Bucky's spine. The blond raised his head at the Director, challenging his stare. He had his elbows on the table, fingers interlacing under his chin. Fury made no change in expression, body language, anything. He was as dull and boring, yet dangerous and respected as Bucky could remember.

"He injured over thirty students, had injured seventeen proffessors, and slain three-hundred ninety-two demons." Fury clarified with a matter-of-facts tone, of which all of Bucky hated. Steve lowered his head, chin resting on his knuckles. He hadn't broken the staring contest with the Director, rather his gaze gained an unnatural amount of heat to it.

"Was this before or after you failed to subdue him and the other demons on the premises?" Steve replied all too casually, yet his expression remained tense, unwavering. Fury didn't disclose anything, but Natasha leaned over to Steve and whispered something in his ear. Bucky didn't understand the language, it clearly wasn't English, and it wasn't Russian, either. Steve nodded briefly in her direction, the red-headed demoness leaning away, sinking back into her seat. Bucky could hardly contain the quiet growl that managed to escape him, and he could smell the amusement permeating the air. It drafted from Natasha specifically, assaulting his nostrils until he felt like he'd be sick. Steve redirected his attention to Fury, just as Natasha did. They acted like the neither of them had even spoke, as quietly as it had been. Jealousy flourished in Bucky's veins, his blood cooling and feeling like ice. His body felt cooler, and the room dropped several degrees. His jealousy and anger was slowly manifesting itself, ice beginning to appear on the walls, creeping closer and closer to the group seated at the table. A few of them seemed to notice the shift, while all of them tried to ignore it. Wanda had turned to look back at him, concern lacing her features. The sight she was met with was unsettling- the demon was radiating pure, unbridled rage.

"Both, before and after. They broke free when he went on a second rampage, intent on laying waste to the other demons. It's unclear whether he had been triggered, like he's possible to be controlled, or rather it was simply an instinctual slaughter." Fury held his tone, his gaze, and his posture. The demon's quickening changes were completely ignored, since there were already offensive and defensive measures in place, waiting for the moment the demon snaps. Bucky tried to remain collectively calm, as far as he could muster. The only reason he hadn't snapped every neck in the room was Steve's scent- it was grounding him, reminding him to be patient, and simply wait. Natasha shifted in her seat, noticing how Bucky was slowly steadying himself, pushing down his instincts and his emotions. All it took was a simple inhale of Steve's dreadfully intoxicating scent, and his muscles went lax and he slumped against the wall. He still watched the group with a predatory gaze, mainly directed on Fury, Natasha, and Tony. Tony would glance to Steve every so often, and it was quite obvious he desired what was Bucky's. The demon growled again, loud enough for everyone to hear. A few heads turned his way, mainly Tony, Natasha, and Clint. Wanda tried to ignore him as much as possible, rather focusing on conversing with her brother. When their attention had been redirected to Fury once again, Bucky relaxed, only slightly. Steve's words hit him, ironically, like a freight train. The demon was shaking against the wall, fingers pressing into the smooth surface strong enough to leave dents.

"If you're incapable of controllin' a single demon that caused hundreds of others to go into a frenzy, you're clearly unworthy of the title and position you hold for the government agency and the academy itself, not only endangering your secrets but also your students." Steve's words were smooth, yet challenging. He hadn't backed down once since he had woken from his dreamwalking, and had no intention of stopping now. Bucky watched intently as Tony shifted in his seat, eyes trained and focused. It was a brief, if almost insignificant reminder that Tony was a proffessor at the academy as well. He remained quiet, indecisive. The subtle changes in the man's expressions would have intrigued Bucky, however today nothing did. His blood already boiled in his veins, he'd been pushed too far over the edge. Pierce was there. A previous handler, before he had escaped when he had caught the smallest trace of information of Steve. It had been enough to give the demon hope, something he had desperately lacked in the past seventy years. Bucky could still smell Pierce's lingering scent from the door, which he wished he could retreat from. Steve, he wanted to be buried in that scent that the blond produced. It was soft, warm, comfortable. An underlying tone of danger, which screamed from every movement of Steve's body. Bucky was inexplicably drawn to the blond, the bond between them throbbing at one another's unease. Steve shifted ever so slightly under Bucky's stare, the glowing gray orbs becoming worried with every second that passed.

"I'll have you know, Rogers, that all of this mess, was unintended, unexplained, and unexpected. Security is tight, there are many protocols and background checks that must be done to even step foot on the property. There was a rogue agent lurking about, and whatever you did- whatever you said to Barnes which caused him to snap will be on you. Every wound, death, and amount of damage he caused will be placed on you." Fury let the weight of his words settle in the thick atmosphere, Tony almost rising in his seat to protest.

"He- didn't do anything, to make that uncontrollable monster act. Whatever you heard is wrong, Steve wouldn't side with a demon, or even interact with one to cause it to go on a murderous rampage!" Tony's voice steadily rose with every word, until he was nearly shouting at Fury. Steve knew Bucky was probably retreating into his own shadows at every word, curling in on himself. The blond was correct, and Bucky had to use every ounce of his will to not run. He needed to escape, to get away. A monster shouldn't be in the same room with... heroes.

"He's not a monster, Stark." The tension in the room quickly flipped to confusion as Natasha's voice cut through the silence following Tony's outburst. A dim light of hope flickered in Steve and Bucky's chests, both of them wondering where she'd go with this. Tony gave Natasha a heated glare, daring her to press on. Correct him, give proof.

"Do you not even know what he was doing? How demon hierarchy even functions? Someone- something threatened Steve's life, so he panicked. I could smell it from even the other side of the campus. Almost all of the demons, save for the calm and collected ones, would be driven to primal instincts to try and fight him, establish their dominance over him. He was the strongest demon on campus- aside from myself. I could easily crush him into the ground, and have more of a human mentality to react to those pheromones. However, the other demons are not a high enough class to not try to take him down. So he was simply defending himself- and Steve." Natasha's tone finally had emotion slipping into it, something akin to disgust but at the same time, akin to fondness. She sounded smug at the thought of crushing Bucky, but reverted to a placid voice quickly afterwards. Bucky pushed himself off the wall, treading silently over to the group. Natasha turned to look up at him, green eyes glowing with understanding. Bucky finally understood as well. The demoness had forgiven him for past actions- and rather had appreciated his gesture to protect Steve. It was obvious she'd claimed the blond as hers, just as she had Clint. The two of them were the dragon's treasure. Bucky had protected that treasure. It meant a great deal- even more as Bucky recalled their past- and how they knew one another. The mission against her had been an unpleasant one. When Natasha looked away, Bucky was painfully aware of all the sets of eyes on him.

"If he was defending against demons, why did he attack humans?" Bruce finally spoke, soft voice full of nothing but curiosity. There was no bite to his tone, no disgust or judgement. Child-like curiosity could be dangerous, but beautiful thing. Steve took a liking to him immediately, and both him and Tony reminiscented that Bruce was a proffessor at the academy, just like them. He was a half-breed, however. When angered, he shifted into a demon. Nothing but uncanny, pure strength, followed by the rage that fuelled that strength. It was startling that someone so gentle could house something so brutal. Bucky's hands came up to brush along each side of Steve's neck, the blond relaxing marginally in the demon's touch.

"He broke down. They approached. Tried to 'help'. It wasn't help." Bucky's tone was flat, his eyes glazed over. He looked lifeless, yet the steady beat of his heart and the occassional breath spoke otherwise. His grip on Steve's throat tightened, and it was clear the demon was making it known he could end the blond's life before any of them had the chance to react. While most of them went rigid at the notion, Steve and Natasha remained unfazed. Steve rather found the attention calming, humming when he felt the tug of a struggle to breathe finally coming to the surface. Bucky's grip eased only enough for him to inhale deeply through his nose, seconds later tight against him again. Steve's vision was speckled with bursts of color, his head feeling heavier and heavier ever passing second Bucky deprived him of oxygen. Steve hummed again when a claw dragged along his pulse, hyperaware of all of the attention directed on him. This was quite possibly the angriest Bucky had ever been, demanding attention like this and showing who Steve belonged to. It was also the end of the meeting. Neither Bucky nor Steve said anything else, the blond allowing himself to be dragged out of the room by the demon.

oOo

Bucky was a flurry of heated, needy kisses, bites, scratches, and pulls by the time he'd managed to get Steve away from the S.H.I.E.L.D. facility. The demon had somehow managed to find Natasha's mansion in little time, unlocking the door with a major strain on his energy, but the magic was worth it. Steve didn't have his keys on him. The blond was barely through the door by the time Bucky was all over him, rubbing their cheeks together, pulling the blond into his chest, neck, and everywhere else visible on the demon in a desperate attempt to cover the scents lingering on Steve with his own. Steve barely had the chance to stop Bucky from practically crawling out of his clothes, holding the demon's wrists steady even when he struggled. Bucky needed this, and Steve was denying him of it. He was nervous, anxious, frustrated, and undeniably guilty. He felt the emotions weighing him down, only to be wiped away when Steve cupped his cheeks with his hands. The blond's thumbs ran along Bucky's cheekbones, the bone structure standing out almost painfully. It looked sharp, striking. As curved and formed as his jawline. Steve pressed a kiss to the demon's nose, running his fingers up and down Bucky's neck. Bucky tensed for a few seconds, then all of him relaxed at once. Every wound coil in his spine sprung into relief, the pit of his stomach no longer feeling like stone. He felt safe again, in the dragon's den... Steve with him. Steve far away from S.H.I.E.L.D. and Pierce, who was Hydra. When Bucky opened his eyes again, he saw Steve's concerned stare, with underlying hints of confusion, adoration, and sorrow all intertwined into those delicate, beautiful blue orbs. Steve let go of Bucky, stepping backwards only once. It was an option that Steve was giving Bucky, the option to leave. He didn't have to stay and do this- Bucky knew this, but he also knew that Steve was all he had, and he'd never leave him behind ever again. Shaking his head once, it was all the confirmation Steve needed. Practically dragging the demon over to the closest piece of furniture, Steve took the demon all over again. Bucky felt warm, soft, so tight around him. When the demon's moans had escalated to a new level of sound, Steve thought he might get a headache. The headache went as quickly as it came, the blond drowning himself in the demon's body. He knew it was wrong, giving himself away like this. Logically. Emotionally, realistically, Bucky was his. The demon already made that part obvious, and it was something Steve enjoyed greatly. When he felt the familiar ache in his chest as the demon sapped the sexual energies from him, he held on as long as could, pulling multiple orgasms from the demon without becoming exhausted too quickly. Like he had said before... love had a better reception than just unemotional sex. Making love to Bucky had never felt so natural to Steve, like it was what he was made to do. Clint wasn't going to know what happened to his chair.

oOo

Three Weeks Later

Bucky and Steve had fallen into a comfortable routine, the demon following Steve to the academy, leather attire clinging to his form in a flattering, presenting kind of way. Pride swelled in Steve's chest everytime someone would stare at Bucky with awe- their attraction for the demon not hidden in the slightest. Bucky didn't seem to mind, even if the attention was unwanted. He'd seduced a few of the students, too many curious minds and hearts drawn in by his unnatural sway with his every step. Steve couldn't help but admit that he enjoyed every moment with the demon, their bond growing stronger with every day that passed. Natasha as well, seemed elated with how close they were becoming. Steve had made mental notes to question her on it, and only earned himself cryptic, mind-bending answers. He'd in short, found nothing. Bucky, on the other hand, knew Natasha's intentions. He'd quickly dispelled the dragon's darker side by presenting himself to her, to which the demoness took all too eagerly. Steve and Clint were almost offended when the two had emerged from Natasha's bedroom, naked, bruised, and covered in scratches and bites. Steve had later discovered what they did, and had only felt betrayed for a few days before Bucky was a moaning, writhing mess underneath him. Not even Natasha could get Bucky to feel like this, and Steve used it as another pillar for his slowly growing ego. Another plus-side was that Bucky was slowly growing stronger, his energy not drained as quickly as it had been before. Steve had suspected that was also from Bucky becoming one of Natasha's 'treasures' as the two demons had called it. Neither Clint nor Steve had understood what that meant, until a few seconds later and it clicked in Steve's mind. An unmated, unwanted, lonely dragon that was hoarding males. Specifically, Steve and Clint for the past... who knows how long. She'd added Bucky to her collection, and stuck to calling him Jamie. Steve recoiled just at the thought of the nickname, sounding far too feminine for the... no, it wasn't too feminine. While Bucky may have appeared masculine in his body-type, he was far from acting like a man almost any given point during the day. He walked more like a Las Vegas stripper, hips swaying in an attractive manner that dared to beckon forlorn, sex-driven, forlorn souls into his grasp. His tail would always sway with a motion that mirrored with the way he walked, most people finding the subconscious quirk of the demon sensual. Even when he wore the mask onto the campus, he still walked like a model. A far too attractive and horny model, for the most part. Steve had to call Natasha sometimes when Bucky would grind against his desk, already aching for anything to soothe the demon's primal urges. Bucky had also ruined too many pairs of boxers for Steve to count. Natasha always teased the two of them about it, yet somehow seemed proud with how Bucky had reluctantly forced himself to not touch Steve, or himself, in public. That didn't mean he didn't get wet. No, not at all. It was almost annoying, with how much Bucky's body decided to demand from the two after their bond was finally comfortable in it's place. Steve was tired all the time, Bucky was horny all the time, Natasha wanted to laugh at it all. She offered too nicely to take the demon off Steve's hands, yet Steve felt no regret as he shooed the two off and proceeded to not see Bucky for an entire week. He was concerned, sometimes believing the demon wasn't even alive. If it weren't for the constant tugging, pulling, and clawing at his chest to signal the bond was still there, Steve wasn't sure what he would do if Natasha did kill Bucky. Not like he had the strength or resources to tell her otherwise, let alone try to stop her. Steve was all too eager to see the demon again, who after a week looked completely spent. He'd definitely... been... actively engaging in sexual activities the entire week. There were bruises on his hips, up and down his spine, his shoulders, his neck. Almost everywhere there was some mark left on him, and Steve felt guilty at letting Natasha take Bucky into her 'care'. It was a nice turn of events when Bucky didn't get unbelievably wet near Steve for the next two weeks. Everything was nice, if Steve should put it that way. Until of course, he woke up to the sound of Bucky rustling in the sheets, trying to pull Steve's clothes as silently and gently as he could without jostling the blond awake. Steve tried to ignore the demon as much as he could, half-asleep even as the cold air hit him. He was slowly, surely falling back asleep until Bucky jumped on him, then and there. The demon let out a loud moan as he settled onto Steve, thighs nearly crushing the blond's hip. Bucky's desperation really, really hurt sometimes.

"F-fuck, Buck." Steve groaned the two words in a slur, hastily as he tried to sit up. Bucky eased the pressure on him, allowing him to sit up. In a single motion, Bucky was clamped down on Steve all over again. Those glowing gray eyes hadn't left Steve, the light intesifying when Bucky finally registered Steve was awake. It took the demon everything he had to not come then and there. Bucky placed his hands on Steve's shoulder, trying to ignore the time on the clock on the nightstand. Four thirty-seven AM. Steve should be asleep, but here he was pressing kisses along Bucky's collarbone. It was annoying, but endearing at the same time for Steve to be so calm with being woken up when he should be asleep. Fortunately for the both of them, it was turning to Saturday so Steve would be free the entire day. Some part of Steve realized this, and he felt obliged to finally treat the demon to a pleasant morning. Hands snaking to the demon's waist, Steve huffed as lifted Bucky up a few inches before the demon instinctively slammed himself back down onto the blond's length. A drawn-out, low growl vibrated in Bucky's chest, powerful and demanding. Bucky already made it clear he wanted Steve, and he wanted him now. Giving into the demon's wishes, Steve found a pace between the two of them that had Bucky a writhing, moaning mess against him. Between purrs, grunts, and moans, Bucky was mumbling incoherently. Steve liked it when Bucky purred the most, and felt inclined to teasing the demon on it. Bucky however, disliked it when another sign of his demonic alterations made themselves known, and tried to push down the habits the moment they slipped out. Bucky made an exception with purring, since it soothed Steve to sleep, and the blond especially liked it when Bucky purred during their cuddle sessions. Some part of his instincts remembered for him when his mind wasn't cooperating, as his moans died to loud, rumbling purrs. The tightly wound coil of tension mixed with pleasure finally snapped in the demon, and Bucky came with a low growl. The way Bucky tensed around Steve was beautifully painful and curious at once, the demon usually relaxed after his lustful drive had been sated. Bucky's long, drawn-out growl died after about a minute, his body slowly reeling from the shock. Steve made a mental note of Bucky's change in demeanor. A couple more thrusts into the tight, wet heat, and the encouraging purrs from the demon pulled Steve over his own metaphorical edge. Steve was expecting exhaustion to follow, yet nothing but surprise flooded him when Bucky didn't tap into his energy to fufill his own. The demon was barely conscious, purrs still echoing in the air. He laid his head on Steve's shoulder, blinking his drowsiness away. The demon was already brimming with energy, a swirling vortex of hues of red, light blue, dark blue, and lavender. Steve squinted and forced himself to tap into his own energy to see the demon's aura, which was exactly what Natasha had described. Bursts of color surrounded them, but Bucky was drowning out Steve, quite literally. The mass of dark blue intertwined with the light blue, almost completely overshadowing it. Bucky was clearly with-holding information Steve knew it'd be hopeless to chase, the blond sighing into long, wispy locks of brunet hair. Steve slowly laid back, bringing Bucky with him. He kept his arms wrapped around the demon, who showed no interest in moving. Steve pressed a tentative kiss to one of Bucky's ears, which twitched in slight annoyance. Steve smirked at the flick from Bucky's tail, a form of lazy response the demon was willing to provide. Steve wondered if Bucky had anything to say, curiosity peaking when the demon opened his mouth like he was going to speak, only to close it mere seconds afterwards and returning to purring loudly. Steve knew what Bucky was trying to do, and tried fighting the delicate lulls of sleep that were accompanied by the demon's purrs. Bucky let his lips linger on Steve's shoulder, lips parting to lick over the flesh he sucked on with the intention to bruise. Steve knew he'd regret letting the demon do it in the morning, then the vibrations pulsing through his entire body proved to be more effective than he thought.

"Sleep, solntse." Bucky murmured the words against Steve's flesh, readjusting until he felt more comfortable. The demon was practically draped over Steve, who didn't understand the second word the demon had spoken. It was a lost cause in his mind, as he followed suit to the demon's command almost instantly. Bucky shifted again, only to cover Steve with himself more than before. He kissed every inch of skin he found without moving too much, hands roaming up and down the blond's sides. He felt content as Steve was lulled deeper into sleep, relaxing underneath him. Bucky followed in suit shortly after, his purrs still vibrating between the two as he fell asleep.

oOo

Bucky's sudden bout of bitchiness was not what Steve was expecting the next morning. The demon refused to even look at him. Steve had no clue what to do, and every time he tried to give Bucky space, his attitude shifted too quickly for Steve's liking, going from stay away to don't leave me. Steve had contemplated on going to Natasha for help, and eventually the logically part of his mind won. Leaving Bucky alone in his room, Steve sought Natasha out in her office faster than he had hoped. The demoness was already sparing him taunting glances, yet each and every one of them remained playful. When Steve sat down on the floor quickly, the world spun for a few seconds. Natasha followed suit, her movements fluid and slow.

"What's bothering you?" She began in a dry, unamused tone. Steve had the lingering doubt that Natasha wouldn't be able to supply him with an answer, yet pushed the feeling down with a thick swallow of his anxiety.

"Why the literal fuck is Bucky having mood swings? He turns into an ultra bitch one moment, a cuddly little annoying bastard the next." Steve's tone came out as aggravated as he felt, cheeks reddening as he expressed his anger through a small venting process. Natasha stared at him blankly for a few seconds, gaze darting to the ceiling, lingering there, then returning to Steve. She grinned smugly at him, baring her fangs as a few breathless chuckles escaped her blood red lips.

"You haven't noticed, have you?" Just as Steve dreaded, Natasha was back to puzzles, replying to questions to queries just as confusing. She had an amused tone, however. Steve felt like whatever was wrong must have been common knowledge.

"Noticed what?" Came his eloquent, well-strung together reply. Natasha rolled her eyes at him, and Steve could have sworn he'd seen her eyes go to the back of her head momentarily. When her stare refocused itself on him, she gave him a knowing look. The slight bow of her head, the way her eyes narrowed at him by a fraction. Judging him for his lack of knowledge.

"Your bond." Her voice was thick, heavy with an accent Steve recognized she'd sometimes gain whenever speaking to him or Clint about something that should have been obvious to the two. It quite frankly, infuriated Steve by all means.

"What about it?" Steve managed the grit the words through clenched teeth, forcing his aggravation down as far as he could, which happened to not be very far. Natasha's posture shifted slightly, along with her facial expression. She found the entire situation amusing, and with another chuckle, she finally replied once again.

"It's stronger now. You've both accepted it, in body, mind, and soul. His hormones are going to change drastically, because as they say, succubi and incubi only have one mate. The one they chose, is the one they're stuck with for the rest of their lives. Even after that mate is long gone, they won't go out and find another." At first, Natasha's words made sense. Then suddenly, he found nothing but confusion. He understood the bond, and he knew that the over-stereotyped demons chose only one mate. Steve also understood that Bucky did not mark or claim him in any way that a mate would. It only pushed his befuddlement to the edges, the expression finding it's way onto his features. Natasha rolled her eyes again, settling for dragging a hand down her cheek.

"He hasn't bit you, sure, but that's not the only way he can claim you. He claimed you the first night he was here." Steve perked up at this, not even noticing the blatant disappointment in Natasha's tone. Steve's eyebrows knitted together as he furiously tried to remember how Bucky did so, and found no way what-so-ever. When he looked back up to her in question, her delicately crested eyebrows raised a fair amount.

"He was in heat." Natasha's voice no longer held disappointment, rather something more akin to disgust. If Steve had longer hair, his eyebrows would have jumped to his hairline. His eyes widened at her, mouth hanging open for a few seconds before he cringed visibly.

"What." Steve blinked dumbly at the words, mind grasping at straws until he was able to register the words. With a slow nod, he stood up with a forlorn expression on his face. He wasn't sure if Bucky was using him, or if he'd done it by accident. The demon appeared to be inexplicably drawn to Steve in every way, even if he was angry at him. Bucky wanted Steve all the time, discreetly trying to seduce the blond nearly every second of the day. Steve forced himself to leave Natasha's office, contemplative expression still painted on his face. Bucky was some feet away from the door, sniffing at him warily. Steve's emotions must have not been transmitted through the bonds clearly, if the demon was resorting to scenting him. Rather than asking him what was wrong. Steve backed away, despite knowing it'd hurt the demon's feelings. Bucky only showed mild discomfort from Steve moving away him, and continued to sniff the air. When nothing but confusion remained on Bucky's features, he hummed, pivoting on his heels to leave Steve alone in the hallway. Steve let out a sigh of relief, which was short lived when Bucky returned a minute later to slap him.

"That felt better than I expected." Bucky hummed, satisfied with his results. The pleasant sting in his fingers, and the reddening mark on Steve's left cheek. Steve rolled his eyes as he shook his head, trying to ignore how excited it had made Bucky.

oOo

Monday morning, a day Steve sometimes dreaded. At the moment, Steve wanted nothing more than to sink into Bucky's embrace, warm, comforting and adrenaline-inducing all at once. It was a riptide of emotions that decided to rush over Steve which drove him to wake himself up. He pushed Bucky away as gently as he could, trying to not jostle the demon awake. It was a failed advance when Bucky's eyes snapped open, stormy gray orbs shining with aggravation. He didn't like to be moved, and with a sigh Steve muttered an apology. Crawling out of the bed, Steve made his way into the bathroom to take a quick, cold shower. He used hand-sanitizer a few times during the shower, intent on washing Bucky's scent off of him. It was becoming strong enough for even his human nose to pick up on, which meant it was enough for Clint's nose, and practically everyone else's nose to pick up on. Steve didn't even want to know what he smelt like to Natasha. With another sigh, he toweled himself dry when the lingering scent of something sweet, comforting, and homey was finally gone. Not bothering to pick up his pajamas as he left the bathroom, Steve steered himself in the direction of his drawers with nothing but a towel clinging loosely around his waist. Steve could feel Bucky's predatory gaze roaming up and down his figure, and he could also hear the demon sniffing the air. A low, instinctual tug on their bond indicated Bucky's displeasure of having himself washed off of Steve. The blond only managed to give out a groan at the added weight in his chest, which slowly eased itself when Bucky stood up. The demon was rather content to watch Steve, who hurried through his drawers to grab a button-up shirt, a suit blazer, a pair of pants, socks, cuff-links, and a tie. Steve haphazardly managed to get the clothes on in no time flat, wrinkles and creases everywhere. It gave Steve a disheveled, attractive look, even if it wasn't his style. Not that Steve doesn't admit to being attractive, he simply dislikes having unkempt clothing. Creases, wrinkles, stains. He preferred things kept tidied, almost perfect for his own scrutinizing eyes. With a quick motion, he had the tie in place, nearly even when he turned to meet Bucky's still predatory gaze. The demon's eyes were glowing at this point, and from the weight returning in Steve's chest he knew it was anger... hopefully. Yes, Steve admitted to himself. He was hoping it was anger and not something else. Bucky raised an eyebrow at him, and Steve sincerely hoped the most meager and unimportant of thoughts did not travel through their bond. The way Bucky's stare got under Steve's skin was almost too much, and he found himself blurting out words he shouldn't have.

"Did you know you were in heat when you first came here to find me?" Steve regretted the words the instant they left his mouth, blinking slowly as he raised his hands in defense. Bucky went completely rigid for a few seconds, every ounce of emotion draining from his face like his color. After too many seconds with abated breath, Bucky looked up to Steve with defiance shining in those gray orbs.

"Yes." Bucky shifted on his feet, already wearing the tight, sinfully delicious looking leather attire. Even if the only skin visible was his face, he suddenly felt too exposed. Steve's gaze dropped to the floor, heat spreading on his cheeks. When he had the confidence, while lacking, to meet Bucky's gaze, his heart was torn into too many directions to be mentally healthy.

"Well." Steve addresses him casually, eyebrows raising as he bit on his bottom lip. He didn't quite know what to say- aside from the fact there was no way he'd ever be able to run away from Bucky.

"The fuck is that supposed to be?" Bucky pointed the words venomously at him, disliking Steve's reaction as much as he did. The blond shrugged, pressing his lips further together into a thin line. It's only a few seconds of sharp, unreadable demon until Bucky melts into sarcastic laughter.

"Ya ain't even mad 'bout it." Bucky's voice slurred into a thick Brooklynn accent, something in Steve stirring akin to arousal. Steve sighed as he shook his head, shrugging his shoulders at the same time. Bucky looked relieved, tension escaping his body as he dragged his hands down his face. When Bucky peeked out from his fingers, the glow from his gray orbs had dissipated. Bucky's hands dropped to his sides, ears twitching and begging to be touched. Steve reached out to rub his fingers over the unbelievably soft fur, massaging the demon's ears and taking comfort from the purrs he made. Bucky was slowly beginning to appreciate affection more and more, becoming less distant. He was also becoming increasingly hornier. Steve was glad his body could handle it- ever since he woke up in S.H.I.E.L.D.'s care for the second time, he felt stronger, faster, and he healed quicker. It's like a light-switch was flicked on in Steve's biological clock, altering him in subtle, yet frightening ways. Bucky was slowly beginning to notice too, yet didn't seem deterred, scared, or even concerned. He was fine with Steve rediscovering his strength that he could so easily use to overpower the demon with.

oOo

Steve didn't realize the extent to his rapidly growing accesses of strength until he managed to pick his automobile up to catch a very rude squirrel. It went unregistered to him for a few seconds, until he realized how weightless the vehicle felt in his palm. Slowly setting it back on the gravel, Steve made sure to have a light, nearly weightless grip on the squirrel. When he'd retrieved his keys from the rude, small furry creature, he set it on the grass and shooed it away. It was easy enough, as Bucky had walked down the drive and growled at it. He gave Steve a triumphant smirk as the squirrel scurried to get away, rushing through the grass. A hand on his hip, another hovering a few inches away from his chest with the mask in hand. Steve scowled at the mask, the only good thing about it was that it prevented Bucky from throwing up from the onslaught of too many scents at once. Steve was hoping the demon would get better, but after his rampage at the academy he had to wear it at all times once he stepped foot off Natasha's property. The two of them hated it. Steve still wanted to know if Bucky had gotten better, though. With a single nod towards the mask, Steve's interest piqued again.

"No. I still get sick." Bucky replies casually as he gives the mask a single glance, almost complying too easily. Steve knew Bucky hadn't gotten better at all.

"If anything, it's gotten worse." Bucky smiled almost sadly at the mask, eyes looking up to Steve in silent pleading. The blond walked over to him with heavy, unfocused steps. Putting the mask on Bucky felt like chaining him up almost everyday, but it was for other people's safety. Steve was glad though that none of the students in his class knew it was Bucky that had caused the destruction and death from three months before. With two sighs, one respectively muffled, the pair slipped into Steve's vehicle. The engine roared to life, the only familiar sound the two knew whenever they left Natasha's mansion. Bucky could hear Steve's heartbeat over the background noise, though. It was oddly comforting, like a drum beating steadily in Steve's chest. Bucky didn't pay attention to the woods-like scenery passing by shifting into a city, with strips and joints Bucky wanted to be a part of, because on instinctual level he knew it'd be easier to lure potential victims in from those shady areas. Another part of him recoiled from the tall buildings, his fear of heights settling as an uncomfortable weight in the pit of his stomach. Steve notices Bucky's discomfort through their bond, and glances over momentarily before focusing his gaze back on the road. It was enough for Bucky to distract him, at least. He still felt sick around the tall buildings, and was far too grateful when they were back into a heavily wooded forest. Tall trees surrounding them on nearly ever road, some even threatening to get on the way of the road. Bucky liked the tall, earthy-smelling pines. At least he did. When he had his incident, he had received his mask with even more powerful scent-repressors than before. He can't even smell Steve, being in his car, with him less than a foot away. It terrified Bucky deep down, but also comforted him knowing he won't have to smell all of the students and demons in the academy.

oOo

Bucky had become reluctant as of late to enter the academy, always on guard for another attempt on Steve's life. So far, there was nothing. He kept his ears listening for any small detail, even if they hurt greatly from all of the loud noise. Today, his tail didn't even sway behind him in excitemet to see the students in Steve's classes. He felt... on edge. Something was going to happen there, and Bucky could feel it deep down. On an instinctual level, he felt the urge to run. On a deeper, lower, and darker instinctual level, he wanted to seek out the source of the feeling, and sink his claws and fangs into anything- who or what it was unimportant. He kept his hands to himself, footfalls silent even with the thick, military-styled boots he wore. Steve kept casting him worried glances, the blond beginning to feel jittery with Bucky's unease. Bucky didn't show much change when it came to his emotions while at the academy, and Steve felt so helplessly lost. Their bond hummed with a mariad clash of the demon's emotions, mixing and intertwining with Steve's so delicately the blond couldn't figure who was feeling what. The slurred mantra of emotions seemed to be easier to distinguish for Bucky, who jogged a small distance to catch up with Steve. The demon offered a hand, to which Steve all too greedily took. Steve hoped with every fiber of his being no one saw that, how wrong the two of them were together. With a huff, Steve dragged Bucky through the weaving crowd of students, teachers, and proffessors. Both with held breaths, the two of them hoped nothing would go wrong that day. The strong pulls at Bucky's instincts said otherwise, and the demon found himself hovering close to Steve, almost pressed up against the blond. When no one was looking, Steve would allow Bucky to scent him, cover up his protruding, clean scent. When it was finally time for the class to begin, the pair couldn't be more grateful. Steve switched into full-business mode, offering the first lesson of the day. Students were attentive as usual, some their attention more directed at Bucky, rather than Steve. Wanda was no exception, tapping into the abilities she'd been practicing with ever since the demon had infiltrated her mind.

'Are you okay?' Wanda's small, nervous voice rang in Bucky's head, and he fought the urge to look in his direction. His mind was nothing but white noise, an annoying buzz as anxiety continued to thrum in his veins.

'I'm not sure. I.. feel off. There's something going to happen here.' Bucky sounded as distressed as he felt, even through telepathy. Wanda gave a small wince in her seat, looking as apologetic as she could muster without drawing attention to herself. Bucky drowned out the words of Steve's morning lecture, something distracting about Fae, something boring to Bucky in every way. He found it more interesting when Steve discussed the different sub-classes of demons' that had been forced into Bucky's veins. Wanda had showed no intention of returning any conversation, the brunette stiff in his seat. The rest of Steve's morning lecture passes in relative quiet, with only a handful of students asking questions or to use the restroom.

Over the passing of time in the morning, Bucky had only begun to feel more and more nervous, his skin prickling at every single thought eating at his mind. Sweat slowly rolled down his flesh, his breathing ragged and strained in the confines of the mask. It wasn't until he felt a wetness in his pants that Bucky knew what was wrong. His body had been working up a heat the entire time, which was mainly used for mating, breeding, or to get a large surge of energy. It typically took many partners to satisfy each and every need the incubus' body would demand, and Bucky never felt more lost than he would at that moment. He wasn't going to ask Steve to help him, and he certainly wasn't going to risk anything. He needed to get away, but he needed to do it discreetly. If only that ache that was slowly beginning to flood through his system would stop long enough for him to think. He couldn't exactly think of an escape plan as his muscles tensed to force more slick out of his body. He knew with strong his scent was, the humans would be able to smell it too. Smell him. Whatever gods above were certainly playing a very sick joke today. He could already sense the rising arousal from the majority of the students, only the shyer, and quieter ones not noticing much or being affected by it. Not that Bucky recalls, no textbooks talks about incubi going into heats. Only succubi. Bucky's nails dug into the cloth that strained against his thighs, trying to find a logical solution. All he could muster was something about the cat-like ears atop his head, and the tail thrashing violently him. Aside from his tail swaying in the air, Bucky remained as still as he could manage. Even in an entirely different world full of pain, he managed to hold in every whimper and sob until the day in the academy was finally over.

oOo

The second the doors close in Steve's car is the same fraction of a second his head whips over in Bucky's direction so quickly they both think he'd get whiplash. In the confines of his car, Steve can smell the distress rolling off the demon in thick, heavy waves. There's an underlying scent of need, want, and desperation. Steve tries to ignore the demon's arousal and how his body pleaded for everything all at once. Steve reached over to pull the mask of Bucky, the demon showing no resistance at all. He just pulled his legs to his chest in an effort to make himself as small as possible. Bucky just wanted Steve to start the car already and get him far away, as far away from people as possible. Bucky screws his eyes as he waits, hoping Steve won't be stubborn for once and just take a hint for once. With a wince at his own movement, Bucky lifted his head to glare at Steve. The blond's gaze was reflected with nothing but confusion and worry, something he shouldn't be doing. It was Bucky's week to worry.

"Drive." Not a request, not a plea, but a demand. Bucky could only hope Steve wouldn't see through his tone and work more on Bucky's body language. The blond ignored what had been said, rather chewing the inside of his cheek as he continued to grate on the demon's nerves.

"What's wrong with you?" Steve tried to sound as calm as he could, voice wavering only slightly. Bucky would have felt warmed at the blond's concern for him if he wasn't already so mouth-wateringly hot.

"I.. 'm... fucked up biology. Kinda... function as a... succubus?" Bucky's eyebrows knitted together at his own words, a jarbled, low and scratchy mess. Steve's expression was almost enough to make him laugh, but he knew it'd hurt too much to do so. When Steve's mouth fell open, his eyes widened as much as they would go. His eyebrows shot up, and he blinked a few times before shifting in the seat.

"Oh." Without saying another word, Steve turned the key in the ignition and then proceeded to break an uncanny amount of speed limits.

oOo

By the time they'd reached Natasha's mansion, Bucky was delirious and completely out of it. Steve remained calm and collected, carrying the demon out of his car and into the mansion. He briefly set the demon down to unlock the door, before picking him up again and heading inside. Steve kicked the door shut behind him, and promptly steered himself in the direction of the stairs to go up to his and Bucky's shared room. Gods, since when was it theirs? Steve shook his head to rid of the side-tracking thoughts, barely nudging his bedroom door open before dropping Bucky on the bed. He contemplated on leaving Bucky there, a logical part of his mind reminding him he could die from trying to sustain an incubus like this all by himself. Another part said he'd be fine, he would make it through. And then there was that little nagging emotional side that said he shouldn't let Bucky suffer alone through that... through... this. Like he'd been telling the demon over and over, he wasn't a monster. His biology might be a bit fucked up, he's not human anymore, but that didn't change who he was, or who he is. Steve repeats the three different opinions in his head, and settles for leaving. He stops briefly when Bucky sat up to catch his wrist, shaking his head. Bucky found himself incapable of words, and he didn't want to growl at Steve, so he settled for a hopeful chirp that sounded oddly like a kitten's purr. Steve slowly turned to face Bucky, some part of him hoping the demon would regret what he was asking. The expression on Bucky's face remained somewhat hopeful, yet there was no doubt regret was one of the many emotions thrumming through their bond.

"Please, Stevie." Bucky choked out the words almost painfully, a whine escaping him just as he did so. The noise sounded pitiful even to his own ears, but it caught Steve's attention.

"Buck, we can't. I won't be able to supply you with the energy you need, and I certainly won't live through it." Steve kept his tone as calm as he could just like before, a frown settling on his features when Bucky shook his head.

"I don't need energy. I don't have to feed off of it." Bucky looked up at Steve again, hope shining in his eyes even as he tried to hide a grimace when pain flooded through his veins once again.

"And... the other part? I know what succubi heat cycles are for." Steve spoke with suspicion in his tone, only slightly alleviated when Bucky shook his head once again.

"I... can't do that. Trust me, Hydra tried. For a very, very long time. They couldn't. I can't, so we're fine." Bucky was fighting against his primal urges enough to have his sentences not sound so strained, yet his grip on Steve's wrist tightened. If Steve were normal, he was sure the bones would have snapped under the pressure by now. With an indiginant sigh, Steve allowed Bucky to pull him down onto the bed. Gods. He was surrounded by a scent so intoxicating Steve wished he was a demon to enjoy it even more. It wasn't too lustful, something more inviting. Beckoning him into the demon's trap, and Steve found himself complying too easily after only a single taste of what the demon could give him.

A/N

Kinda... disappointed.. it's shorter than the others, but my mom said shorter chapters is okay, but... I ain't doing anything below 10k words. This is 13k. REVIEW? PLEASE? SOMEONE? ANYBODY? SIDES FROM MUMMY AND KANNA?