AN: Hell, hope you are all ok out there. Managed to remember what day of the week it was this week. So, a bit of a mammoth chapter and I was about to split it, but thought what the hell! It's about a wedding and it's a Wednesday and we're living life!
I hope you enjoy it, let me know thoughts etc. It's a little bit fluffy (meaning a lot fluffy). Usual stuff applies, I don't own anything, all Marvel.
Stay safe out there x
Chapter 38: Ask the Right Question
Bucky comes down the stairs on the morning of the wedding and wanders through the house. He observes everyone going about their business. Maggie is putting flowers in what look like milk churns and Dana is folding bags of confetti. Steve is dragging in more bags from the car, including their suits, Amelia is brushing Rosie's hair and Peter is outside sweeping. Everyone is busy and involved, he looks around and considers where Andi might be, if he should go and find her. Dana presses his arm and passes him a warm cup of something, he smiles gratefully at her.
He steps out of the patio doors and can see Peter whistling to himself. It's fresh and Bucky's feet jump off the cold deck. Peter breathes out and watches the condensation, smirking at the super soldier, 'you might need a coat, my boy. She's in the barn.' Bucky nods and tips his head. He ambles across the lawn and into the out-building.
It's a large space, with rafters and a wooden floor, it's well made and surprisingly warm. Bucky stands in front of an outdoor heater, the orange glow warming his face, he then spots Ben up a ladder, securing speakers. Looking further around he can see Andi is using a broom to force fairy lights over the beams.
Andi turns at the sound of the creaky floorboard and spots Bucky, 'morning, I've never seen you up this early,' he says lightly. She surprises him, by grabbing the warm drink and kissing him on the lips. She sighs and sips the drink, 'it's a big day, I can't believe it, the more I think about it, the more excited I get. I was up all night making a playlist.' Bucky grins, 'I bet Mia loved that.' Ben calls down a good morning, Bucky offers a small wave and Andi smirks at him, 'hey, so I'm looking for a date, any ideas?' Bucky scoffs sarcastically, 'how about Owen?' Andi laughs, Bucky reaches for his drink back and as he presses it to his lips she looks confused, 'well, no, because he will come with his partner, Joe.' Bucky closes his eyes slowly and Andi makes an oh shape with her mouth, rolling back with laughter. 'You're an idiot!' She accuses with glee. When she has calmed down, he appears perplexed and asks, 'bathroom sex?' Andi checks her phone, 'tempting, but I've got to go get my dress. Do me a favour, finish these lights and help dad with whatever?' Bucky nods and she pecks his cheek, dropping some tangled lights at his feet and running past him, calling back, 'I walked in on him once!' Bucky winces at his mistake and follows her with his eyes, he nudges the lights with his foot and sighs to himself, 'you are an idiot.'
'Where's mommy?' Steve looks over his shoulder, two sets of expectant eyes, awaiting an answer. 'She's gone to try on her dress and collect yours, remember?' Rosie giggles, 'oh yeahhhhhh.' Steve grins at her and Ty, sat patiently at the breakfast bar. Mr Miller left him in charge of the kids, planting a pancake mix on the counter and heading out the door quickly with no further instructions.
Steve is busy whisking and turns to the pair, 'you two excited, for the big wedding?' Ty shouts 'I am!' Rosie leans up, her chair scratching the floor, 'me too! Me! I am!' Steve starts to ask Rosie to sit down, but smiles warmly as Ty pulls her chair back against the worktop. 'I love pancakes!' The small brunette declares, Steve nods, asking 'what do you love about them, Miss Rosie?' Rosie considers this hard, 'ummmmm, they are round!' Steve laughs, 'good one, what else?' Ty answers 'and yummy!' Rosie shouts louder, 'Oh! Oh! And brown!'
A voice calls from within the house and the children ignore it, Steve looks back to them, 'Ty, I think that's your mom, better go see what she wants.' The boy refuses to move, shaking his head firmly. 'What do you like about pancakes, Mr Steve?' Ty asks cautiously, Steve smirks, finishing with his batter and heating the pan, 'they remind me of your mom,' he says looking at Rosie. Ty looks confused, scrunching his nose, 'my mom?' Steve is woken from his dreamy daze, 'no, not your mom, Rosie's mom.' Rosie opens her mouth, thinking deeply, 'mommy looks like a pancake?' Steve rubs his eyes, realising how wrong this has gone, 'no, what I mean...' luckily for him Maggie appears at the door, a towel around her hair, 'Ty, I've been calling you, come on, I need you to try your suit on.' Ty whines and doesn't move, complaining about missing the pancakes, 'I am sure Steve will save you some, now come on, I'm serious.' Ty slips from his chair with a sad wave and Maggie calls back, 'Steve, your pan's burning.' Steve jumps and turns the stove down, pouring the batter and tilting the pan.
Rosie shouts 'BYE TYYYYYYYYYY!' Turning back to watch Steve, she claps, 'show me?' Steve tips the pan, 'looks good, hey? As good as mommy's?' Rosie nods happily.
'There's Uncle Bucky!' Steve looks up and out the window, spotting his friend using a mallet to plant pathway lights, leading to the barn. 'Is he your brother?' A small voice asks next to him. Steve looks down at Rosie, stood beside him. He's confused how she got there. He quickly picks her up and walks her back to the counter. She sniffs loudly, 'that smells!' Steve realises something's burning and hurries back to the oven top. 'Shit,' he mutters, 'what's sh…?' Rosie asks, 'nothing!' Steve denies. Suddenly a loud noise can be heard and Rosie covers her ears, squinting at the fire alarm. 'No, no, no' Steve mutters, grabbing a towel and waving it at the alarm.
Steve waves frantically, one eye on Rosie, the other on the burning pancake. The noise stops and Peter calls, 'sorted, kids. Try not to burn the place down, Steve!'
Steve's shoulders drop and he exhales in frustration and exhaustion. 'Are they ready? I'm hungry!' Rosie shouts loudly, hands still covering her ears. Steve glumly returns to his pan and sighs, looking at the charred effort. Walking to the trash, he hits the foot pedal and watches as it doesn't move, stuck to the pan. He drops it into the sink and searches for another frying pan, he turns to Rosie, 'you're sure you want a pancake? It's getting late.' Rosie smiles, nodding gleefully.
Steve starts again and takes a deep breath, 'Bucky, Bucky! Hi!' He smiles, listening to Rosie's sweet voice and finding the energy to try again. Pouring the batter, he tries to keep his focus this time. 'Can I use Bucky's hammer?' Steve shakes his head, 'no, it's very heavy.'
Rosie sits at the counter, singing softly to herself, while Steve stares intently at the frying pan. Steve's mind drifts to New York, this is the first time he's thought about work and his other life. Looking down he thinks he may have got it right this time.
'You ready?' It's cooked.' Rosie cheers and Steve whispers, 'at least I think it is.' She taps her cutlery against the counter in excitement and calls, 'flip it!' Steve smiles, knowing that bit he can do. He throws the pan up, launching the pancake high. 'Wowwwww,' Rosie gasps, 'better than your mom, hey?' He asks arrogantly, Rosie shakes her head, 'nope.'
He slides it onto Rosie's plate, proud of the excited squeal she gives him.
He continues making the rest of the pancakes and Rosie gently calls, 'Stevie?' He turns the stove off and looks between her and the pile of pancakes. He notices she hasn't eaten much of hers and walks over to sit beside her, 'what's up? No good?' Rosie looks shy, 'mommy chops it for me.' Steve understands and quickly gets to cutting up the large pancake, 'is that better?'
Steve smiles down her, enjoying the moment, just them. She looks delighted and starts to stab at the pieces with her fork. 'Save Ty one!' She says with a mouth full, he looks at her happily, 'you're right, good thinking, you are a very kind little girl.' Rosie agrees, 'who makes you pancakes?' she asks slowly, Steve looks at her in confusion, 'umm, no one does, I have to make my own and well, your mom made me some one time, remember?' She shakes her head, shrugging. 'Can I play outside?' Steve straightens her chair, 'not today, there's no time, there's a special party later.' Rosie accepts the answer and finishes her pancake with a final mouthful. 'Can we have pancakes every day?' Steve grins at her, 'no.' Rosie sings, 'whyyyyyy?' Steve considers it and jokes, 'you will start to look like one.' Rosie's jaw drops and her eyes widen in fear, Steve panics, 'I'm kidding, that won't happen, but we can't do it every day, as it won't be special.'
'Is Bucky your big brother?' He looks at her, enjoying his own pancake. He can see her tilted head, dragging her curls in the leftover syrup. She's smiling at him with big eyes and round cheeks. 'He is my best friend, he may as well be my brother.' Rosie grins, looking back to the window and waving dramatically, calling to Bucky again. She looks back at Steve and he silently pushes her plate away. She lies her head on the counter, biting her lip shyly, 'I want a baby brother.' Steve blanches and stumbles over his words, 'oh, well...I am...I am on pancake duty at the moment, sorry, no little brothers.' Rosie giggles, 'is nana Dana your nana too?' Steve looks at her in confusion, 'umm, no, sadly she's not, you and Ty are very lucky, she's very nice.' Rosie sits up proudly, 'she could be, I will ask her!' Steve starts to protest but gives in.
'Have you ever been to a wedding?' He asks her, she shakes her head and looks down at her pyjamas, counting the Mickey Mouse heads. 'Yes! Ariel had a wedding!' Steve nods, 'oh, who's Ariel?' Rosie sticks her head inside her pyjamas, mumbling into her shirt, 'Ariel, mommy's work friend.' Steve smiles at her, tugging her shirt until her head pops out and her frizzy hair springs back. Steve offers her another pancake and she nods keenly, once again he cuts it into pieces and he watches her spoon the pancake into her mouth, her curls stroking her plate some more. Rosie slaps her shirt, looking for something and grabs a clip, placing a hair clip in Steve's hands, calling 'up, up!' He looks down at it, and then slowly wipes a hand over her forehead, dragging her hair back and clipping it up. 'Ow!' She whines and Steve flinches, afraid he's hurt her, 'more! Up, up.' Steve stands, looking down at her hair, using one hand to gently grab up her curls. He clips it to her head and then looks down to see a handful he missed.
Bucky walks around the corner and stops short at Steve collecting and styling Rosie's hair. He folds his arms and sighs out, causing Steve to turn to him. He mouths help and Bucky walks over, holding his hand out. He takes the clip and looks down at the eating Rosie, he clips it on his shirt and holds his palms out, 'use both hands, under the ears, collect it all up, give it a twist and clip it, got it?' Steve looks surprised and Bucky waves him off, pointing to his own hair, he unclips it and tells Steve, 'you go.' Rosie doesn't move, still munching her breakfast. Steve mimics Bucky and throws most of the hair into the clip, forgetting the twist and creating a fountain of hair. It begins to fall, too loosely pinned up.
Bucky leaves with a nod, a shrug and a pancake in his hand.
'Buckilicous! We are back' a voice calls loudly and Steve turns towards the door, spotting a grinning Amelia leaning against the frame. Her dress draped over her arm in a zipped up bag. She grins at him, stifling a laugh. Rosie spots her also and calls to her. Amelia walks over and kisses both their heads, 'I thought I told you to get dressed, little girl?' Rosie blushes, telling her all about the pancakes. She protectively moves a plate with Ty's portion, 'can I wear my dress now?' Amelia shakes her head, shifting the dress bag and wiping away syrup from Rosie's face with her thumb. 'Nope, not until tonight, come on, go save Bucky from your Auntie.' Rosie turns to get down and Amelia looks at her with a smirk, 'what happened to your hair?' Rosie cheers 'Stevie did it' and runs off, waving bye.
Amelia sits down beside Steve, 'you look exhausted,' she laughs. Steve shifts the plate towards her, 'pancake?' Amelia grins and shakes her head, Steve looks at the ceiling, 'I think your dad gave me the easiest job and I somehow made it harder.' Amelia giggles at him, 'you're cute, thank you for watching her and not burning my childhood home down.' Steve's head drops, embarrassed she knows about that, 'should have gone with eggs,' she jokes. Amelia stands, 'I got to help my dad, can you give Ben a hand with chairs in the barn?' He nods, as she leans down and kisses him softly on the lips. 'See you later, love you. Oh, also, just to say, I'm so sorry for bailing on that bath, did you go it alone?' Steve licks his lips, looking at her in amusement. 'I mean, have a bath, not... do that on your own. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Well, maybe at my dad's, the timing… you know what, just, forget it, sorry,' Amelia mumbles, backing away, crimson with embarrassment. Steve watches her go with mirth, 'oh hey, who's Ariel?' Amelia stops, pouting and thinking, 'I don't know, I don't think I know an Ariel.' Steve chuckles, shaking his head at Rosie's stories. Amelia gasps, 'do you mean the mermaid?'
…..
Bucky steps back, admiring his work. Folding his arms, he frowns, 'that's not straight,' a confident voice calls from behind him. He winces, rubbing his eyes, 'yes, I know, thank you for that.'
Andi strolls over and leans on his shoulder, 'pull the left side down and move the entire thing up, it's too low.' Bucky looks at her profile, 'tell me again, why I am pinning a sheet to a barn wall?' Andi kisses his cheek with a pop, 'all will be revealed, please straighten it, it's bugging me.' She waltzes away and shouts to him, 'or can you not see, old man?' Bucky raises his drill and growls at her sarcasm, pressing the button in frustration, starting the tool. Andi giggles, 'now, now! I'm going, don't worry and by the way, is a drill really the best idea?' Bucky sighs, 'it was all I could find.' He watches her leave and reminds himself it's a wedding day and to be nice. He looks around, thinking there's still a lot to do, he wonders why they call it a barn, it's not really.
'Brummm, brummmm, zmmmmm, zmmmmm' a voice sounds beside him, he turns around slowly and spots Rosie, armed with toy drill. 'I got one too, Uncle Bucky!' He pauses and relaxes, noticing the flashing lights and plastic casing, 'I can see that. Where did that come from?' Rosie giggles, 'I found it, in the toy box.' Bucky nods and sets to re-pinning the white sheet. 'I came to help you, Uncle Bucky.' Bucky closes his eyes, hoping she might sit there in silence and help him that way. When she starts to sing, he realises it's not going to be so easy.
'Great, ummm. Well, you stand there and stay still and I am going up there.' He points to a wooden stool and climbs up, unhooking the sheet and accidentally dropping it. He exhales in annoyance, 'umm, kid? Think you can pass me that white thing?' Rosie squints at him, 'you said to be still?' He rubs his eyes, 'you can move, pass me the white thing, the corner,' Rosie shuffles over cautiously.
'Here you go,' her tiny voice offers, Bucky looks down and can see her passing him a white plastic bag of Rose petals. 'White!' She beams up at him. He half smiles and climbs down, grabbing the sheet and climbing back up. He starts to drill and Rosie copies, making whirling noises. He looks at her from the corner of his eye, she waves the toy, spinning on the spot.
Bucky steps down, muttering, 'looks good to me, straight and plenty high enough, she doesn't know what she's talking about.' Rosie copies his pose and mimics, 'doesn't know what she's talking about.' Bucky turns quickly, looking at her and sighing 'crap.' Rosie giggles, 'crap!' Bucky rushes over to her, stooping to her level, 'nope! Stop that.' He looks at her, trying to think of a distraction, 'your hair looks different!' Rosie smiles proudly, 'mamma did the plaits.' Bucky nods in relief, 'it looks...nice?' Rosie tugs at his hair, 'she will plait yours, I'll ask!' Rosie starts to run back to the house and he panics, exhausted by the constant emotions. 'Hey, wait...ummm...I need you, here.' He looks around spotting the bag of petals. He passes it to her, 'dump these over there, kid.' Rosie takes the bag, asking cautiously, 'where?' Bucky double takes, 'throw them over there, umm...nicely, on the floor...sprinkle? Yeah, sprinkle them.' Bucky shakes himself, the sweet words a struggle for him.
Rosie walks slowly to the front of the barn, toddling down the make shift aisle and looking back to Bucky every so often for an approving nod. She spots Ben putting chairs out and she waves enthusiastically, 'hey Belly!' Ben pauses and Bucky scoffs, 'well, I know who's kid she is. It's Ben, I'll maybe accept Benny, NOT belly! It's just some holiday weight, I don't want to talk about it.' Rosie shrugs and heads to the front of the barn. Ben walks over to Bucky, 'hey man, hows it going? Didn't know you were babysitting as well?' Bucky raises a brow, sternly stating 'I'm not.' Ben looks across at the little girl, grabbing handfuls of petals and making a pile, 'time to step in, super nanny, oh and your sheet is wonky,' he slaps Bucky's back, resuming work with the chairs.
Bucky scratches his head, before walking over to Rosie, he stops behind her and bends down, 'Hey Rosalyn?' She looks up excitedly. 'Why don't we spread them out a little more?' She looks confused, scrunching her nose and then looking away, distractedly. 'Watch, dip your hand, grab some and then spin and drop.' Ben laughs loudly, 'show her!' Rosie joins in, jumping, 'show me, show me!' Bucky sighs and grabs a handful, slowly dropping as he stands and spins around. Ben claps and Rosie copies, 'yay!'
Amelia calls to her from the yard, 'bye!' She announces as she drops the bag of petals and leaves quickly. Ben shouts across, 'chop chop, spin and drop. Nearly time to suit up.' Bucky looks at the pile of discarded petals with a deep exhale. Peter walks into the barn, clasping his hands together, 'nearly time to get dressed. This looks fantastic, boys. Bucky, good job, but spread those petals more, will you?'
…..
At five, Steve steps into the lounge. It's very quiet and no one appears to be around. Peter strolls in, reading a piece of paper, repeating the words over and over. Steve gently walks across, 'Mr Miller, you doing ok? Anything I can do?' Peter looks up at him, grateful for the distraction, 'I think I'm all set, hey, come with me, Steve.'
Steve follows Amelia's dad outside into the dark backyard and into the garage. Inside is a large train set, based in the centre of the room, with a track looping around the ceiling. There's miniature trees, cattle, houses. 'Impressive,' Steve remarks. Peter hits a switch and the train comes to life, working its way around the track. 'When the girls left, I was on my own. Rather sadly, this train set became my life. Until I met Dana at the Bathe and Groom. She walked into my life and shook it up with just a smile. Can you imagine?' Steve looks down and laughs lightly, 'yeah, I might have an idea.' Peter continues, 'my life wasn't really going anywhere, the same loop, day in, day out, bit like this train and now look at us, New Year's Eve wedding. Even surprised my girls, which is no mean feat.' Steve smiles warmly, he bends and spots a small replica of the house, there's figures that resemble Dana and Peter outside and Steve looks back over at Mr Miller. Steve asks 'are you nervous, sir?' Peter considers and then shakes his head, 'no, how can I be? When it's the only option for me, she is the only option for me.' Steve nods in agreement and looks to the rafters, spotting two small bikes, inflatables, tents, all evidence of the childhood Amelia had here. 'This is a great place, sir, the house, I mean.' Peter smirks and pats Steve's back, 'well if I ever sell up, I'll give you and Mia first dibs, son.'
A voice calls Grandpa and Peter looks up, 'that's Rosie and Ty, time to get this show on the road. Do I look ok?' Steve smiles at the older man's brown suit, 'sharp, sir.' Peter switches off the train and walks out, turning the light out and closing the door behind them. Peter and Steve stroll back to the house, 'don't let Amelia cry all night, she's a big softy, you know.' Steve laughs, pushing his hands in his pockets, 'noted, I'll keep an eye on her.'
They both walk into the house where Ty and Rosie are stood side by side, looking proud of their attire. Ty has a bow tie, waist-coat combination and Rosie is wearing a white dress with a sage green belt and small brown boots, her hair is plaited and small white flowers are woven in. Peter tells the kids they look fantastic and Steve kneels before Rosie. 'Well, you look like an angel,' he tells her, he spots his mother's hair clip in her dark curls and smiles, pressing her nose. She giggles and swings her dress, 'if I'm an angel, what is mommy?' She asks, dancing on the spot.
'A goddess!' A voice interrupts. Steve looks up and can see Andi coming down the stairs, she has a strapless, floor length green dress on and her hair is loose. 'You look beautiful, Andi,' Steve says sincerely. Rosie gasps, 'but you love mommy, not auntie Andi.' Andi laughs, 'smart kid.' Andi looks at him and smiles, 'you look pretty sharp as well, good sir, my sister will be itching to take that suit off.' Steve blushes and looks at the children, Rosie unaware and Ty sticking his tongue out, making vomiting noises.
Andi chats with Ty and Steve makes excuses, darting upstairs and into Amelia's bedroom, he closes the door as she is finishing up her makeup, 'sorry it is taking a while, I ripped my stockings, had to start again, put a nail through them.' Amelia also has a sage green dress, it's sleeveless, with a high, halter neck. Her hair is in loose waves and she has a halo of flowers. Steve smiles at her, 'you look wonderful.' Amelia blushes shyly to herself in the mirror, 'are you sure? It's not really my colour, Maggie did my hair,' she babbles. Steve walks over and strokes her wrist, appearing in the mirror beside her, 'it is your colour, you look beautiful.'
Amelia gasps and turns to look at him, 'your beard? Wait, what have you done with my boyfriend?' Steve stumbles on his words, he thought she'd be happy that he shaved. She cuts his musings off with a kiss and pulls back, 'don't think, I can hear you thinking. I love you either way, in fact, I don't think I could choose.' He relaxes and strokes a hand down her arm. 'Hey, look!' She lifts her skirt cheekily, flashing her brown cowboy boots and he chuckles.
'You ready for this?' He asks, stepping back and sitting at the end of her bed. 'Yeah, he's so happy, I never thought it would be like this and its New Year, it's kind of magical, don't you think?' Steve watches her finish her lipstick, she's pouting in the mirror and he agrees, magical. Amelia pulls back and asks, 'is he wearing the brown suit?' Steve grins knowing exactly what she's referring to, 'yes, he's gone full brown.'
Music starts in the yard and car lights can be seen as people begin to pull up. 'That will be Andi, she fancies herself a DJ,' Amelia looks at Steve, 'did you see our girl?' Steve pauses, realising she means Rosie, it catches him unaware, our girl. 'Yeah. Yeah I did, I told her she looks like an angel and she really does.' Amelia sighs, 'yeah, well she better behave like one.' She walks over to Steve and looks him up and down, 'I can't believe you knew about this! Good suit by the way, you look so mmmmmm in it.' Steve blushes, pulling his lapels forward. 'Mmmmm, what was that?' He asks, she smiles, 'everything else I was thinking was not proper for such an occasion.' Amelia steps in close, standing between his thighs. 'You know I have a feeling about tonight. That this could be it, your big dance, I hope you're wearing appropriate footwear. We could really tear it up.' Steve looks at her and prays he gets the opportunity to hold her close under the stars, swaying to Andi's awful music choices.
She places both hands on his cheeks, 'you better go, I'm going to get Dana, save me a seat.' He kisses her goodbye, lingering beside the door, watching her again, humming to herself as she sprays perfume.
Amelia strolls down the hallway, picking up toys as she goes. Rosie and Ty come running up to her, 'well, don't you two look fantastic. Can you take me to Nana?' Ty grabs Amelia's hand and leads her to what was her parents' bedroom. Maggie is in there securing a flower to Dana's lapel. Dana is wearing a white satin skirt suit, she has a fascinator in her hair and she looks excited. Amelia tells her she looks wonderful and kisses her cheek. Amelia turns serious, 'Dana, I feel I should warn you…' Dana looks panicked, concern flooding through her, 'dad is wearing the brown suit.' The older woman laughs loudly, Maggie appears confused, 'what am I missing?' Amelia explains, 'my dad boasts that he's worn the same suit for thirty years but frankly, it's putrid in colour and that's being nice, I even set out a blue one, in hopes he might take the hint.'
Amelia looks around the room, she was never allowed in there as a child. But now it's warm and cosy, the windows look out over the barn and it's as if it's written in the stars. She can see Steve, shaking hands with people he's only just met. Rosie stands beside Dana, 'nana you look like an angel.' Dana gently pinches her chin 'so do you my girl, Grandad won't know what to do with himself, I bet he's crying already.' Rosie giggles and jumps on the bed, peering out of the window, 'look mommy, look, Stevie!' She knocks the window, but they are too far away for him to hear. Amelia smiles at her and offers her arms, 'come with me, but you must be quiet.' Amelia lifts Rosie up and walks over to the other end of the room, there's a glass door and a balcony. She slides the door open, muttering an expletive at the cold. Rosie says, 'I can't see mamma, it's dark.' Amelia points over to the barn, 'Grandad is inside and look, there's Steve.' Rosie smiles and claps, screaming STEVE, at the top of her lungs. He looks up and around for the voice, spotting the girls. He walks over to beneath the balcony. 'What are you two doing up there? You've got a wedding to get to.' Amelia chuckles and Rosie calls 'nana looks like an angel as well.' Steve grins, 'I bet, now get inside, you'll get cold.' Amelia smiles and Rosie waves at him, Amelia places her down and she runs back inside, shouting about the cold and Steve. Amelia rests her hands on the railing and looks down and over, 'could you climb up here? Like in Rapunzel or like Richard Gere?' Steve is smiling, but looks confused at the last name. He looks around and spots a trellis, 'I don't know the last guy, but I could certainly have a good go.' Amelia laughs and calls, 'well, I climbed out of here once, soldier, so you better get working on it.' She smirks, turning to go back inside and Steve stares after her, she always manages to surprise him.
Andi is bobbing to the music and switching camera lenses, she's looking down when a hand strokes her shoulder blade. She turns and gasps, 'shit, you scared me.' Bucky looks her up and down, 'you look very nice.' She smiles and then hoists her dress up around her breasts, in a casual manner. 'Need to keep these bad boys in, not that kind of party.' Bucky laughs, shaking his head. She kisses him softly and sighs, pulling back, 'well, you look devastating.' He shuffles awkwardly, hoping that's a good thing.
He watches her struggle with the camera, her hands shaking a little. After a while, Bucky senses her nerves as she fails to attach the lens three times. 'You ok about all of this?' Andi looks at him frankly, 'yeah, I think I am, bit of a shock, but Dana's a babe and my dad is smitten, I've never seen him like it. They've been together a while, I tried to pretend it wasn't happening, but as always, Mia was right and I should have met her sooner.' Andi looks at him, 'oh, here,' she steps up to him and begins to pin a flower to his lapel. 'You do look very handsome. Have you seen my date yet? Owen?' Bucky tilts his head at her laughing face. 'I like it, you a little jealous, it's as if you care… well, you better get out there, take a seat, enjoy the show!'
Bucky turns to leave, her voice stopping him, 'hey, Bucky, I just wanted to say, thank you for coming, for being here. I know this is all more than you bargained for, families, parties, but I'm really glad you're here.' He opens his mouth to respond but suddenly footsteps can be heard on the stairs and when they look up, Rosie leads the line-up, gripping the wooden bannister, her mother calling, 'both hands!' Ty is next, followed by Maggie, she's in a one shouldered green dress. Dana comes into view in her white two piece and Amelia is last, she's carrying four bouquets and she exhales in relief, dropping them on the counter. Bucky smiles at her and tells them they all look lovely, he bows and backs away, wishing them good luck, he winks at Andi and as he leaves he can't believe he just did that.
The women stand there and look at one another, Andi chimes in 'I feel like we should do something, pre-game warm up, chant or bang our chests.' Maggie laughs at her, 'or we could just have a shot.' Andi raises an eyebrow, 'that could work.' Maggie wrestles a hip flask out of her handbag and passes it around. Andi looks impressed, Rosie asks for some and Ty tells her 'no, it's poison.' She looks a bit worried for her mother and Amelia reassures her it's safe. Amelia grabs a fluffy wrap for her sister and Maggie, and zips Rosie into her faux fur white coat. They step onto the deck and the automatic light comes on. As they walk across to the barn the music continues to play, Amelia twists her ankle in the grass and Rosie falls to her knees. Andi picks her up, cracking jokes to avoid tears. Then the light goes off and Andi mutters 'fuck it.'
Andi jumps up and down and the light flickers on, encouraging everyone to move quickly. They arrive at the barn entrance and Andi pokes her head around the corner, telling Ben to give them two minutes. They adjust themselves and Amelia spits onto her hand, wiping a grass stain on Rosie's tights.
Andi bobs on her toes from the cold and the excitement, Dana grabs her hand, 'thank you, for allowing me to do this.' Andi looks surprised, 'it's not me, it's fate. Just look after him.' Dana hugs her close and Andi makes a strangled noise, her eyes wincing and her lip quivering with unshed tears. Amelia smirks at her little sister getting choked up. Amelia throws an arm around her and kisses her head, 'you got this.' Andi nods, exhaling, 'Barnes has made me a softy.'
Amelia looks around the barn and can see people from her childhood, new faces, family and finally her eyes land on Steve. He puts a thumb up at her dad and she wants to laugh at how sweet and uncool he can be. She looks at Bucky beside him, staring up at the draped fairy lights. Suddenly, everything feels surreal, Amelia reminds herself she's not getting married and relaxes. She smells her bouquet and exhales nervously. Amelia can feel Andi's warm breath on her as she peers around, 'what the hell is dad wearing?' Amelia laughs into her hand, 'don't. Can you believe this is happening?' Andi stares past her sister, 'I can't believe that suit is happening, did you know?' Amelia ignores her, 'what first dance song have they gone for?' Andi sniffs loudly from the bitter air, 'uh, Elvis? No, I love you Aways Forever? Dana's favourite apparently.' Andi starts to sing and Amelia hushes her, 'stop that, right now. I know the song.'
The music changes to a slower melody and Andi dramatically counts the bridal party in. Maggie nods, stepping up to lead, she turns to Dana, 'Nathan would be so proud of you, I just wanted to say that.' She leaves quickly, first down the make-shift aisle. Dana looks down, regrouping herself and Amelia reaches for her hand. Andi watches the guests, 'this is the perfect song. I've outdone myself. Right, well I'm next, then Mia you will go on my signal.' Amelia looks up, just hearing what she said. 'Wait, signal?' She asks panicked, but it's too late and Andi is gone.
Andi floats down the aisle, taking her time, looking around at who she can spot. She looks over at Bucky, his head bowed and she chuckles a little at his awkwardness and wonders how they ended up here. She envisioned them naked on a blanket, watching fireworks by a lake on New Year, not at a wedding.
At the end of the aisle she stops and stands opposite her dad, she winks over at Amelia and flashes her boots, there's a small wave of laughter and Amelia can't believe her sister. She turns to Rosie 'please be good, Ty, look after them.' Then she looks at Dana, 'you ok? Don't let these two pull you over.' Dana smiles at her worrying and encourages her to go.
Amelia proceeds down the aisle, trying to take it slow, but hurrying. She worries she's going to stand on her dress, but she keeps her head up, grinning at her dad and smirking at her sister. She feels a bit stupid and she doesn't dare look to the side at Steve, she's likely to fall. There's only about forty people there, but it's perfect and as she looks at guests watching her, she thinks this could be her wedding, immediately shaking that thought.
When she makes it to the front, her dad offers her a hand up a small step and she sighs out thankfully, looking across the barn and smiling at Steve. He looks happy and it calms Amelia instantly. He nods at her and Bucky whispers something to him, he smiles wider and she wonders what was said. Amelia is standing on her dad's right, looking at Andi, who gives her a well-done thumbs up and Amelia shakes her head, trying not to laugh.
There's echoes of awws and Dana walks in with Ty at one side and Rosie at the other. Rosie has a basket of petals, which she drops in a single pile rather than scattering. Bucky rubs his eyes, chuckling at her, as she waves to everyone and then calls to Steve loudly when she sees him. He blushes and puts his finger to his lips, he then clocks her scraped knee and looks between her and Amelia, who just shrugs. Ty stands by his mom maturely, but Rosie sits down on the wooden step, in the middle of the aisle, until Amelia ushers her to one side. People seem to think it's sweet but Amelia is dying inside. Dana looks so happy as she steps up beside Mr Miller and they share a sneaky kiss, 'nice suit,' she compliments. Amelia steps forward and takes Dana's flowers, Dana kisses her cheek and the pastor makes a start.
By the time the end comes around, the bridal party have taken a seat. Bucky pulls on Andi's hair, as she is sat in front of him and Rosie is kneeling on her chair, all out facing Steve, despite his constant 'turn around' warnings. Amelia looks across and spots Leon, he's making eyes at her and she quickly looks back. There's sniffing beside her and when she looks over, Andi is wiping her eyes. Amelia hugs her sister close and smiles at the soon to be married couple. The pastor pronounces them as husband and wife and Peter leans in to kiss Dana, the barn erupts in cheers and people stand, clapping. Andi has a camera out and she snaps away in the front row, she struggles to see through her glazed eyes. She loudly cheers and Rosie fights to see, stood on her chair until Steve lifts her up. Amelia wipes her eyes as her dad kisses Dana and Andi hollers, 'no tongues dad, gross!' Amelia elbows her and claps for the pair. Dana launches her flowers into the crowd and they land at Bucky's feet, Andi stares down and mutters, 'that was intentional.' She calls to her new step-mom, 'terrible aim!' Bucky stoops and grabs the flowers, looking at them in confusion, before shrugging and passing them to Rosie.
There is no second venue, or anywhere else to go, so people rush up and congratulate the couple, throwing confetti. Ben, Bucky and Owen start moving chairs, forming clusters and tables around the outside and Andi puts the music back on, muttering 'playlist time.' Rosie runs through the crowd and jumps into Steve's arms. She looks over at Bucky, 'Mr Bucky, you look like an angel.' Steve drops his head, he didn't know what he started. Amelia steps up beside them, 'now I can have a drink.' Steve eyes her, 'I'm so stressed, Steve, just don't go there.' Andi appears, hearing the word drink, she pulls her skirt up and drags a flask from her boot, 'always prepared.' Amelia's eyes widen, 'thank God that didn't fall out during the service.' Steve laughs at them and Peter comes over, 'what did we think, boys and girls?' Andi fights through the small group and hugs her dad, welling up again. 'It was so beautiful,' she professes. Amelia laughs, 'what is going on with you?' Bucky looks confused by her behaviour. Owen steps up to them, 'Mr Miller, great doo. Congrats, man. Oh, hey, Steve, Bucky, this is Joe.' Steve and Bucky make introductions and Andi pulls her tear stained face away from her father's shoulder, sniffing 'careful Joe, he thinks I am after your man,' she says, pointing a thumb at Bucky. Rosie tugs at Amelia's arm, 'mommy! Nana Dana said I have the flowers, so I can be married!'
By eight thirty there are people milling around, enjoying themselves, dancing in the centre of the barn and others are sitting around the outskirts. There's a constructed bar and someone from Caper's is manning it. Rosie is dancing with Ty, holding hands, spinning in circles. Dana and Peter are dancing together, Amelia waves over at Mel and Ben.
She is stood at the bar, nursing a hot drink and Steve walks up behind her, 'only you would have a hot chocolate at a bar.' She smiles at him, 'I thought about something stronger, but I've calmed down now it's over and don't forget, I've been put off drinking, you heard the mallet story.' Steve smiles a little. 'Yeah, you going to expand on that?' Amelia mumbles a nope into her cup. They both look over to Rosie, 'will she sleep at some point?' Amelia huffs, 'reluctantly.' Steve reminds her that it is New Year's Eve as well, Amelia had almost forgotten. Steve clears his throat, 'this definitely seems like my opportunity to get close to you on that dance floor.' Amelia grins, 'you know, we have danced, at multiple events.' Steve shakes his head, ordering a beer. 'That is swaying, with the occasional spin. This is dancing, just you and me and the people we love.' Amelia holds her hands up in defeat and looks around, thinking how well they fit in here.
'You looked beautiful as you walked in,' Steve says quietly. Amelia sighs, all she can think about is Rosie's grassy knee, 'did you see Rosie?' Steve laughs loudly, 'yeah, everyone did.'
Their eyes float to Dana and Peter, 'I swear, my dad stole my perfect wedding, this was amazing. Simple, at home, family.' Steve eyes her as she watches her dad, asking 'would you want to do this?' He nods at the other guests. 'What? Get married?' He nods gently. 'Yes, I've always liked the idea. Things haven't exactly happened in the order I expected.' Steve watches her intently, 'me neither.' Amelia's eyes connect with Steve's and she asks 'and you?' Steve nods, swallowing, 'yes, like you say, this is perfect.' Amelia feels a little flushed, she feels like they are making an unspoken promise and she gulps her drink, joking, 'well, you better find someone quick, Captain.' Steve starts to speak and she asks, 'oh, hey, what did Bucky whisper to you, I saw you two high schoolers giggling and chatting.' Steve smiles and licks his top lip, he hesitates but looks her in the eyes, 'he said, it would be me next.' They look at one another intensely and then Amelia wobbles on her feet, as Andi ploughs into her. 'What are we drinking?' She asks, looking between them, 'you two are so dull.' Steve asks where Bucky is and Andi points to the dance floor. He's awkwardly swaying with the kids and pleading with desperate eyes for one of them to save him. Amelia finishes her drink and announces 'I got this.' She squeezes Steve's arm and makes her way to the make-shift dance floor. Rosie jumps up and down at her arrival and Amelia shows Ty and Rosie how to do it, holding Bucky's hand and placing one on his waist. He looks over at Steve in concern and then winces as Amelia steps on his foot.
Andi cheers from the bar and Steve watches them fondly. 'Doesn't she look like a babe?' Steve misses her question, watching Bucky and Amelia sway. 'Hey, Cap, my sister a babe or what?' Andi looks at him as if to check he's ok. Steve unbuttons his suit and makes his way to the group, Rosie beckoning him over and getting close enough to hear Amelia apologising profusely. Standing beside them he interrupts, 'sorry Buck, but it's my turn.' Bucky bows out, 'well, this makes a change.' Steve pulls Amelia close and presses the side of his face to hers. She smiles as romantic songs fill the air and the lights twinkle overhead. She whispers, 'I stood on his foot.' Steve grins, 'I saw,' Amelia snuggles in closer, 'worked though, got rid of him.' She giggles, 'I'm joking!' Steve pulls back and gazes into her mischievous eyes. They watch as the kids try to stop Bucky from leaving, he looks perplexed that the children want to be around him.
Steve grips Amelia's waist, stroking a thumb over her hip repeatedly. 'Last night, you said about not going home?' Amelia looks surprised at his question. Over the last two days, they have alluded to babies and marriage and it's making her head spin, she fumbles for words, but Steve beats her to it. 'I'd be up for that,' he says defiantly and she peers up into his warm eyes, nodding slowly, 'um ok, good to know.' Amelia presses her face to him again and thinks about what he just said, not going home, being together, away from New York and the Avengers. She's not sure how he really means it, but it feels nice, a warm sense of commitment. She suddenly gulps at the thought of leaving her life, leaving her sister, what the magazines would say about her, if she dragged Captain America away from his day job and into the country. She feels like this is getting ahead of themselves and stows the thoughts away.
They get a few solo sways in and then Rosie fights to be between their legs. 'Hi there, little one, what did you think of the wedding?' Steve asks, as he bends to pick her up. She claps in his arms, 'nice! And pretty, look at my knee! I fell! And now I'm green!' She beams at Steve and he looks at her leg, gasping in fake shock. 'You're so brave, Rosie, you know that? Who do you get that from?' Amelia smiles, watching the pair and lightly dancing beside them. Rosie considers and taps her mouth, gasping, 'mommy! She's brave too!' Steve nods in agreement and kisses Rosie's temple, she giggles and insists on getting down, spotting Ty with a bubble gun. As Rosie wriggles free and runs off, Steve opens his arms for her mother and Amelia steps closer once again. She lays her head against Steve's shoulder and she feels like they are the only two people there, 'are you happy?' She asks him suddenly. Steve looks at her with confusion, 'right now? Or…?' Amelia winces and smiles awkwardly, 'I guess, I mean, I mean with me, us, this, the setup?' Steve looks at her pink cheeks and gently dips her to the music, 'everything is perfect.'
Bucky walks around the barn, acknowledging a few people that he has previously met. He stops in front of a projector, watching a photo slideshow. 'Hmmm,' he laughs to himself, realising the purpose of the white sheet. Photos scroll past steadily, Peter and Dana with Petch at the beach. Amelia at a cafe with Dana. Dana and presumably her son, Nathan. Ty and Dana on a steam train. Bucky's brow raises in surprise when a picture of Amelia, Steve and Rosie appears from the fairy tale party. There's one of him and Andi at Thanksgiving, paper hats and all. Bucky smiles and Dana stands beside him, 'that's what happens when you have a photographer in the family.' Bucky smiles at her, but his eyes flick back to the slideshow. 'You're family now, get over it,' she jests, elbowing him lightly. Bucky laughs and another picture of Nathan flashes past. Dana stares at it, sadly, 'you and I both know, life is too short.' He looks at the woman beside him and considers what he should say. He can hear Andi's raucous laugh and he can see Steve and Amelia dancing. It's no wonder no one wants to go home or back to reality. Ty appears beside them, armed with Petch. Dana bends and places her hands on her grandson's face, muttering words to him as she leads them away. 'Bucky, come dance, I know you have some moves,' she calls back.
Andi runs over to him, 'who is that good looking girl?' She asks pointing at a photo of herself. He smiles, turning to her 'I was just wondering, do you think she's available?' Andi laughs, 'since when has that stopped you? Come on, dance with me.'
She drags him over, close to Steve and Amelia. Most people are now on their feet and Andi calls loudly, 'I can't wait for Gangnam Style.' Amelia groans, 'I'm leaving if you have done that.' Steve asks what it is and she simply explains that some things he doesn't need to catch up on.
Andi spins under Bucky's arm, he looks concerned and she giggles, ignoring his qualms, she shouts over the music to anyone listening 'what is actually happening at midnight?'
'Fireworks,' Steve answers, Amelia looks at him in surprise, 'well you are certainly in with my dad.' Steve smiles proudly, 'he showed me the train set as well.' Amelia gasps, 'uh oh, he's lining you up as a son-in-law, no question.' Once she realises what she has implied, she mumbles apologies, Steve grins and stops her by kissing her cheek. Andi makes vomiting faces and Bucky tells her off, 'jealousy doesn't suit you, kid.'
Ty leads Dana over to the group, dropping her hand to chase the disco lights. Rosie grabs Dana's hand, trying to swing in circles. Bucky is still a little wooden but gradually easing into it as Whitney Houston plays loudly. Rosie suggests Steve and Bucky dance together and Peter picks her up, teasing her for her stained green knee. Bucky offers Steve his hand and Steve just points at Amelia, 'sorry, already partnered up.'
After a while, Amelia makes excuses and heads for the bar. Steve watches her go as she slides between people and stops to speak with Mel. Steve looks back and offers Dana his hand and she acts a little coy, 'well, if you insist, Captain Rogers.'
Steve chats lightly with Dana, asking her if she's happy with how it all went. Dana smiles up at him, 'the girls' approval means the most to me, people get so hung up on the family they are born with but families you make are often the best, you know?' Steve nods, looking around and understanding. 'You are a very good dancer,' Dana gushes and Steve smirks at the irony of the statement, 'it just takes practice, I got there eventually.'
Andi pops up beside her sister at the bar, 'wait until you hear this Cher mix, next song!' Amelia sips her third warm drink of the evening and Andi looks between it and her, asking 'you knocked up?' Amelia splutters, 'no, but thank you for that.' She strokes her dress down self-consciously, 'not like that, but why no juice? You getting dull in your old age?' Amelia laughs, 'no, I have a daughter to take care of.' Andi chuckles and looks over at Steve, Dana and Rosie, all still dancing, 'yeah and a full-time baby sitter!' She means Steve and Amelia rolls her eyes, Andi leans in, dancing close, 'tell me. Do you ever call him daddy?' Amelia gasps in horror and covers her eyes. 'I'm serious, I mean look at him.' Amelia shakes her head furiously, 'no, never, that feels weird. For so many reasons.'
The music changes and Andi grabs Amelia's hand and pulls her over to dance. 'Back up boys, make some room.' Steve waves his hands in surrender, and does as he's told, heading for his best friend, who's leaning against a wooden beam. Andi calls, 'oh Ty, you can stay.'
Steve steps up beside Bucky, and bites his lip from asking how's it going. Bucky looks at him sceptically and helps him out, 'all going good I think and you?' Steve relaxes, his friend taking pity on him. They both look over at the girls. Something in the song about do you believe in love? Amelia is dancing as Andi imitates spanking motions, Mel laughing beside them. Steve smiles and turns to Bucky, 'well, they certainly dance like no-one is watching.' Bucky laughs, 'yeah, we could learn a thing or two.' He looks down at himself, 'suit up has never ended like this for me before.' He coughs and points back to the girls, the next song talking about getting married and Andi grabs Amelia's hand, waving it high in the air, calling to Steve. Peter walks past with a family friend and Steve just about catches the end of the conversation 'I've had it thirty years, can you believe?' Steve chuckles to himself and watches Bucky.
Bucky shuffles uncomfortably as an upbeat song begins and everyone seems to know the routine. Bucky creases his brow, muttering to Steve, 'somethings might just never make sense, I guess?' Steve shrugs, 'I'm not sure they need to.' He smiles across at the sisters, swaying together, Rosie jumping at their sides. Andi stumbles and Amelia catches her arm, 'looks like you have your hands full,' Steve advises. Bucky looks over and smirks to himself.
Andi turns and rushes over, 'hey Bucky Blue!' She shouts loudly, throwing an arm around him, 'oh hey daddy Steve!' Steve misses what she said because Ben has appeared and is shouting something into his ear. Bucky gives her wide eyes and Amelia appears, out of breath. Her sister mouths daddy and Amelia whispers 'shut up.' Bucky looks between them confused and Steve turns, spotting Amelia, 'hey, Andi, did you say something?' She looks innocent and shakes her head, batting her lashes at Steve. Once he looks back to Ben, she mouths daddy once again to her sister, revelling in her crimson cheeks.
Andi grins at Bucky, grabbing his beer and slurping it, 'someone just asked me what you do for work, I said a firefighter? Close enough, right?' Bucky just stares at her, swiping his beer back and gulping it anxiously. 'You having fun?' She asks happily, dancing on the spot beside him. Bucky considers it, looking around, Steve chatting to people next to him, Amelia removing Rosie's boots and Andi's bright blue eyes eagerly awaiting his feedback, 'I am.' She beams at him, 'I won't tell anyone, don't worry, I will protect your bad boy image.' She spots Owen and quickly kisses Bucky's cheek, running towards her school friend. Bucky leans back against his pillar and watches her quietly, a flare of something lighting within. He cusses and reminds himself that she can't stay by his side all night.
Rosie tugs Steve out onto the dance floor. He holds her tiny hand in his and spins her underneath his arm. She tries to climb on his shoes and he laughs, eventually picking her up and swaying with her. 'I like dancing!' She proclaims happily, she yawns and drops her head onto his shoulder. 'You sleepy?' He asks softly, 'nope!' She sits up straight and shakes her head, her curls bouncing. Steve watches her, 'well, I'm pretty tired, so you must be.' Rosie denies it again, Steve offers a dramatic yawn and looks around, spotting Bucky sat at the bar, hunched over, an arm propping himself up. Steve spins, 'look, Bucky is asleep!' Rosie giggles, 'no he's not!' Steve grins and nods, 'he is!' Rosie laughs, shouting raucously, 'BUCKYYYYYYY!' He slowly looks around and raises his glass at Steve. 'You woke him up!' Steve rolls his eyes, pretending with her. Rosie fiddles with his tie, 'when… when, we get a new house, will you? Will you come with us?' Steve pauses and looks at her, 'sure, I'll visit, all the time.' Rosie swings back in his arms, 'no! Stayyyyyy, forever!' Steve swallows and looks around for Amelia, 'I wish I could.'
He later finds Amelia stood beside the cake, holding a piece wrapped in a napkin. She's bent down, looking at the small figures on top. Steve stops beside her, he laughs, 'just like the train set, they even got the dog.' Amelia smiles, 'cute, hey?' She stands up straight and takes a bite of her cake. Crumbs drop down her dress and she brushes it off, 'I quite like dressing up, I'm getting used to it.' Steve looks up, surprised, 'yeah?' She nods, swallowing more cake, 'well, if I'm going to more of these things with you, I should get used to dresses and fancy hair do's, right?' Steve looks stunned, 'you would do that? Regularly?' Amelia nods, gently wiping crumbs from her face, staring up at him, 'I want to. Now, try some cake, it's amazing!' Steve opens his mouth as she pushes it towards him. Licking his lips and nodding in agreement, 'it is good. So tell me, what is your New Year's resolution?' Amelia nods, finishing her cake and brushing her hands, 'you first.' Steve looks around, shoving his hands into his pockets. His eyes fall onto his best friend and he swallows anxiously, unsure if he should admit it 'to let Bucky stand on his own two feet.' They both look over, spotting Rosie and Ty trying to pull at him and climb onto his back. Andi swoops in, brushing them off and dancing beside him. 'And… to get a better work/life balance, you know?' Amelia giggles at him, 'two very good ones, Captain Rogers.' He asks her again about hers and she thinks about it. Leaning over to kiss him on the lips, pulling back and whispering, 'to be more confident in myself.' Steve is a little surprised, but quickly recovers, looking over her shoulder, 'well here's your chance, your boyfriend is looking for you.' He points across the room to Leon from the store and Amelia's face scrunches in horror. 'Oh no, kiss me quick.' Steve agrees keenly, 'certainly.' He leans down slowly, torturing her and gently placing his mouth on hers. Pulling back, he whispers 'you taste like chocolate cake.' Amelia's eyes slowly open and she thinks she may have forgotten where they are let alone what he just said.
Steve helps himself to a piece of cake and Amelia sighs, 'is it wrong that I prefer my step mom to my real mom?' Steve shakes his head, 'I don't know, but you do a better job of hiding it than your sister does.' Amelia agrees and spots Andi on Owen's back, 'she's drunk.' Steve notices a guest book, quickly flicking through, 'yeah, I got that.' He looks over at Bucky, once again checking in and then reminding himself of his own new year's resolution. 'She won't hurt him, you know. Not intentionally.' Steve offers her a tiny smile, 'no, I know. He seems… happy.' Steve appears to think twice but keeps talking, 'I just wonder if I make him that happy.' Amelia softens, 'don't be silly, his first love will always be you. You two are the greatest love story in this room. Look what you have done for one another.' Steve gazes at her, sensing no ridicule or mocking, she snaps back to reality, 'any way, I need to grab Rosie for the first dance, she will join in otherwise.' Amelia disappears into the crowd and Steve smiles to himself. Feeling a vibration in his pocket, he pulls out his phone and sees Tony's name flash up.
He considers ignoring it, but weaves through dancers, reaching the exit. Stood in the cold night's air and watching his breath, he answers, 'Tony! What can I do for you? Is everything alright?' Steve asks, a little concern lurking at the back of his mind. 'Cap! Yeah, fine, just bored.' Steve scoffs, 'you? Bored? On New Years?' Tony sighs, 'you're right, I'm at an incredibly expensive party and my thoughts drifted to Grandpa Rogers and I just thought I'd piss you off.' Steve rubs his eyes, hearing a microphone announcement at the party behind him. 'I'm at a wedding.' Tony calls, 'shit, not yours?' Steve exhales, 'no, Amelia's dad's.' Tony tuts, 'why wasn't I invited?' Steve ignores him, 'I'm hanging up now, if you have nothing to say and congratulations on pissing me off even across state lines!' A rumble of laughter escapes Tony, 'that Amelia girl is a bad influence on you, since when do you curse so freely?' Steve looks annoyed, hearing cheering from the party, 'I'm hanging up now.' Tony's voice interrupts him, 'hey, seriously. Happy New Year!' Steve half smiles, 'and to you.' Tony quickly shouts, 'send my love to the family and see you next year,' he hangs up before Steve can respond. Steve pushes his phone out of sight and strolls back inside. The guests have formed a circle, with Dana and Peter spinning to their first dance. He merges with the group and watches. Looking across he can see Amelia holding Rosie, pointing to her grandparents and rocking her softly. He watches her whisper to the little girl and kiss the top of her head.
Later Andi is chatting idly with a family friend. 'You can see your father in you, Andrea. He must be thrilled to have you home!' A neighbour from her childhood gushes to Andi, as she sips her beer from the bottle. 'He's ecstatic, Mrs Lane.' Bucky is stood beside her, trying to get away, but Andi has a death grip on his hand and he prays the elderly lady doesn't ask him anything. 'Your niece is a delight, I remember you at that age.' She looks between Bucky and Andi, 'so, are you two…?' Andi answers at the same time as the older woman, 'sleeping together?' The word 'courting' dies on Mrs Lane's tongue and Bucky groans, rubbing his eyes. Andi jumps in, 'courting, yes, courting! We are indeed.' Bucky shakes his head, laughing out loud, shocking both women, 'can you excuse us?' He asks, steering Andi away, before she can embarrass herself further. 'Stop talking, I'm serious.' Andi bites her lip, laughing to herself, turning to him quickly, 'you want to go courting now? The house is empty.' Her eyebrows dance across her forehead like a cartoon character and Bucky reminds her they are needed here.
'Come on, dance with me?' He offers and Andi stares at him dumbly, wondering if she has drunk too much. 'Sorry, what?' She asks in astonishment, 'who the hell are you and what have you done with Bucky?' He drops his offered hand and sighs at her, 'I just thought, I've danced so much tonight, but not really with the one person I can stand.' Andi giggles at him and offers to get Steve in that case, Bucky looks annoyed at her joking antics and begins to walk away. 'Hey, hey, hey, I'm kidding, I would love to dance with you,' she pleads, gripping his arm. Bucky leads her to the quiet dance floor, a slower song echoing around the room. Andi steps into his embrace and rests her chin on his shoulder, watching the twinkling lights. Suddenly she yawns, the calm swaying reminding her it's getting late. 'Hey, blondie, stay awake back there,' he instructs and she pulls away in surprise, looking at him with wide eyes, proving a point 'I'm awake, I'm here.'
Bucky watches their entwined hands, her pale delicate fingers wrapped around his harsh metal armour. 'Not the New Year's I had in mind,' she admits. Bucky looks into her blue eyes, 'oh yeah, what did you have planned?' Andi hums in contemplation, 'ok, don't laugh, but I did think, naked picnic, looking out on a lake somewhere, under a blanket. Watching other people's fireworks. Finally get to grips with that outdoors life.' Bucky quickly masks his blush, Andi continues, 'but this is good too.' She looks across at Steve and Amelia, laughing at the bar, 'ugh, they are disgusting.' Bucky scoffs at her, 'I taught him everything he knows, or so I'm told.' He watches the pair across the room, deciding 'you know what, we can give them a run for their money.' Andi squeals as he dips her down, she feels her loose hair brush the floor and she prays he has hold of her, 'I've got you,' he promises.
By eleven thirty Andi is still dancing, and merrily drunk. Mel and Ben are swaying with her and Amelia is sat on the swing seat outside, when Bucky walks over to her. 'Hey, you had enough of dancing?' She asks. There's two people setting up fireworks and Amelia shivers, pulling her fluffy wrap close. Bucky sits beside her, 'I can't keep up at times, she makes me feel like I am eighty.' Amelia laughs, 'yeah, she has always been like that. Full of energy, naive and good at putting her foot in her mouth.' Bucky smiles at the ground. 'You doing ok?' He nods silently. 'You know, none of us can imagine what you've been through, it's hard to be there when we don't.' Bucky looks at her honestly, 'you're always there.' She smiles warmly. 'I feel like I can relate a little, I know what it's like to feel abandoned, alone, not good enough. I mean, it's in no way similar. My boyfriend ditched me for a prettier model, but you get what I mean, oh, I don't mean, I didn't… shit, have I offended you? That was terrible.' Bucky laughs and hunches over. 'No, not offended and he was mad, trust me.' Amelia relaxes and jokes, 'yes, I am sure he is regretting it terribly.' Bucky gives up trying to convince her, tipping his head back and looking at the night sky. 'Do you like New Year?' She asks. He sighs, 'can't remember the last time I celebrated it.' Amelia leans back, also looking at the stars.
'So, tell me what she got up to on this bench then?' Amelia pulls a face, 'gross, no.' She shuffles a little, disgusted by the notion and then turns to Bucky with a smile, 'hey? What you just said? You are 80, aren't you?' Bucky knocks her with his shoulder, 'don't push me, Miller, I'm made of metal.' She smiles slowly, 'only on the outside.' She drops her head onto his shoulder, 'Rosie said she doesn't want to go home, we could stay, all of us?' Bucky looks down at her, shocked by the suggestion. She quickly changes the topic, 'do you like weddings?' Bucky thinks about it, 'this could be my first, but yeah, it's been nice, simple, just the important parts.'
Steve appears a little while later, a sleepy Rosie circled into his shoulder. Amelia turns away from Bucky and their conversation, smiling at the pair. Steve passes her Rosie and she cuddles into Amelia, placing her feet on Bucky's lap. 'You going to make it to midnight, little girl?' Rosie nods and touches the ruffles of Amelia's dress softly. At the mention of fireworks, she brightens and spins around. Steve stares down at the three of them. Any past concerns or envy, melting away, he can't imagine this any other way. Bucky looks comfortable and he almost looks like the Bucky Steve used to know, but maybe in some ways this is better. People start to trail into the yard, leaving the barn. The music lowers and Peter points to a place for everyone to stand. He ushers the four away from the swing and Steve takes Rosie back. Peter pulls Amelia up off the bench, she looks at him seriously. 'Well done. This was amazing, she is amazing and so are you.' Peter hugs Amelia, 'I wouldn't be here without you two girls. Come on, find your sister, time for the light show. Don't hold your breath, Leon set us up with them from the store.'
'So, who you going to marry, Miss Rosie?' Steve asks as he lifts her onto his shoulders. She giggles, 'Uncle Bucky!' Steve shakes his head and considers explaining, but he can hear the little girl yawning atop his head and decides it's a conversation for another time. 'Who are you going to marry, Stevie?' He looks up at her with a grin, about to answer, when she taps him quickly, 'wait for mamma, waittttttt.' Amelia walks over to them, grinning 'ten minutes, think you can stay awake, Steve?' He raises a brow, 'I'll try my best,' he smiles up at Rosie, tapping on his head, calling 'wakey wakey!'
AN: So there we go, that was tooth decaying sweet in some places, but hopefully still realistic. All the little moments and relationships is my favourite bits, Bucky and Amelia, Rosie and Steve, Steve and Tony etc. Hopefully is brought a smile to your face. Take care.
Pre-warning, the sweetness can't last and next chapter it takes a bit of a hit. Le me know what you think x