Happy Birth Day Bucky Barnes!... Part 2

Authors note: Thank you for reading and reviewing. This is the second part of this story. Hope you enjoy!

His eyes shot open with a muted choke, blinking rapidly, body tense as he jerked his head to the left, arms already reaching for his knife. He blinked, startled, as his hands gasped at nothing while his eyes landed on a familiar face that regarded him with a patient smile just out of arm's reach. He held his breath as he struggled to recognize where he was and why. After another moment his expression softened and he let out a shaky breath followed by a low groan as he squeezed his exhausted eyes tight, before rubbing them and then stretching his neck and sitting up straight in the reclined chair.

"Just landed,…You got almost a solid 45 minutes of shut eye Barnes!... Not bad." Natasha smirked at him as she handed him back his holster that had on it his knives, guns and grappling hook.

"Gee,…. Thanks Doll!" Bucky snickered and she rolled her eyes and plucked him on his forehead.

"It's not the 1940's anymore Sgt,…. And I am not a DOLL!" She gave him an amused smile and shake of her head as she headed for the exit ramp of the Avenger's plane.

Hawk Eye walked up to Bucky who had stood up and slung the holster belt over his shoulder as they watched her exit.

"I still can't believe you get away with calling her that… I have seen her knock out guys for less!" Barton chuckled as he patted Bucky on the back.

"Well, … it must be that Irish charm of mine then!" Bucky winked at Clint with a grin and shrug.

"Hey Buck,… Sleep well?" The Captain walked from the front of the plane into the back with a hopeful expression that made Bucky sigh and shake his head in mild annoyance and frustration. He looked at Steve then to Clint who smirked and patted his back before heading out of the plane.

"Yea Steve,….. I slept fine!... And I keep telling ya to stop worrying that stupid noggin about it!... I am a grown man and I don't need a momma Hen to fuss after me Punk!" Bucky grumbled as he fixed Steve with a stern look. The Captain shrugged sheepishly with a lopsided smile, arms crossed over his Red, White and Blue clade uniform.

"Ya know,… I keep telling Pepper the same thing!" Tony raised his eyebrows and nodded sympathetically at Bucky, his Ironman face mask pulled back. He rest a hand on Steve's shoulder and pouted before ruffling the blonde's short hair. "It's those Type A personalities, always so busy worrying about us rule brakers and hell raisers!" Stark exchange a smile with Bucky as Steve huffed and shoved Starks hand away before smoothing down his hair.

"Well when it comes to you Tony,… I tend to agree with them!" Sam offered as Stark simply shrugged and heading out of the plan and into the Avenger's tower, letting Jarvis help him remove the outside layers of his suite.

"But any sleep you get is good!... Especially after the Ass kicking you dished out last night!... I was exhausting just watching you!" The Falcon grinned as he held up his hand for a high Five, then drew the Sgt. in for a hug and pat on the back. Bucky smiled with a nod of thanks as he looked down with a chuckle before looking back over toward Steve. Thor walked up next to the Captain with his own nod of respect and recognition toward Sargent Barnes.

"Yes James son of Barnes,…. I am most impressed with your bravery and skill in the field of battle… I had been told by The Captain and our fellow Avengers how you are greatly accomplished in the art of warfare and that your accuracy with fire arms was rivaled by your ability with hand to hand combat… It was a great honor to have you with us in this fight." Thor spoke with a hearty smile and grin, Bucky offering his own small, shy smile and a salute.

"Well if Stevie had told me when I was a kid that THOR GOD OF THUDER was real and that one day I would be watching his six during a fight against Alien robots,….. I would've thought he was off his rocker!" Bucky chuckled as he walked over and shook Thor's hand before punching Steve in the shoulder.

"Trust me Buck, I haven't gotten use to it myself!" Steve huffed a laugh as the four men headed out of the plane. They made their way through the hanger and into the common area where Pepper greeted them with a smile and a tray of smoothies. Her strawberry blond hair shown brightly in the mid morning sunlight from the large shatter proof glass windows.

"Good Morning Boys!... Tony said the Mission went well?" She asked handing them each a glass as they nodded to her in thanks.

"It went better then expected actually and we all came back uninjured for a change!" Steve sighed tiredly as he took the drink with a smile and gulped it down, ready for some shuteye.

"That is a relief!" Pepper beamed as she looked over at Bucky with kind eyes. He nodded as he gulped down his protein shake then sighed.

"It definitely felt good being out there,….. Especially after being inactive for so long." Bucky mused as he smirked at Steve's knowing look, Sam and Thor both exchanging looks as well. It was no secret that Bucky had been asking Steve to let him go out on missions with the team since the very first few days after being brought to the tower for the purpose of recovery from Hydra. At first it had been the Winter Soldier insisting that his functionality as an Asset should be utilized by his Handler's and that his purpose was to be a weapon. Steve, Sam and the others had adamantly refused to let him go as they were more concerned with his mental stability and physical heath then his tactical abilities in the field.

Slowly, and over the course of several months, The Soldier had been steadily regaining his memories as James Buchannan Barnes thanks to the efforts of the Avenger's and his own determined need to reclaim his true identity and sense of self. The healing process had been slow and painful, at times the grief and agony all consuming as Bucky struggled against Hydra's programing and his shattered memories, sifting through graphically violent flashbacks and glimpses of a life long forgotten that seemed more a fantasy then a once lived reality. Some days were better then others and with his biochemistry no longer battling with drawls, his mind was able to clear, delusions and hallucinations no longer adding to his muddled confusion. With patience and support from Steve and his new friends, the Man who had been Hydra's Winter Soldier for so long was finally once again able to think of him self as Sargent Barnes, best friend of Steven Grant Rogers.

After months of begging and pleading to return to active duty, Steve had at last relented and agreed to let Bucky join the Avenger's on a mission against a cybernetic virus from a different world that had hijacked some of Stark's tech and was self replicating. There were no human targets and no civilians to worry about, just a small army of robotic creatures that functioned like ants controlled by one consciousness. Bucky had been on Sniper duty with Hawk Eye, Sam checking in with them as he and Stark ran interference from above and Captain America, Black Widow and Thor took out droids on the ground. It took them all by surprise when one of robots used a magnetic vibration to cause a small, localized earth quake and landslide. The hill Bucky and Clint where perched on gave way and Sam grabbed the falling Archer as Bucky launched himself into the air, using his metal arm to grab onto Tony quickly as Ironman darted around falling rocks to bring him out of harms way.

It was at that point that Bucky was able to use his expect abilities in hand to hand combat against the hordes of robotic androids, fighting with his back to Steve's just like when they where back in the War, over run by Hydra Nazis. It was a lethal dance, fluid and graceful to watch and as the number of robotic AI's rapidly decreased, Thor and the others stood back with respect and aw at how well the Sargent and Captain complimented each other's fighting styles, one blending into the other until there was not a robot left. Both time lost vets were grinning and painting as Steve wrapped an arm over Bucky's shoulder with a nostalgic gleam in his eyes and a proud nod.

As they headed toward their living quarters Steve hid a smile as he looked over at Bucky then away. Each man had his own bed room and bathroom attached to a large sweet with a living room, and kitchen. The sweet had been lived in by Steve since first coming to the Avenger's tower but Bucky had only recently moved into the other bed room a few months earlier, finally convinced that he would no longer pose a threat to Steve when waking up disoriented and violent, fighting against the phantoms of his past.

Bucky glanced up at Steve just as the other man looked away and he rolled his eyes and again punched his arm

"What?!" The Sargent huffed as he walked through the door way into their mutual living space. Steve just shrugged and grinned as he set down his shield before heading toward his own room, a quiet smile on his face.

"STEVE!" Bucky sighed, exasperated from across the room by his own bedroom door way. Steve stopped and turned around, offering his friend a tired but genuine smile beneath eyes that shown with relief.

"You did good today Sgt!... I am glad to have you back at my side!" Steve offered with a proud smile and nod. Bucky huffed and laughed shaking his head before he offered Steve a salute.

"Thanks Cap!... Now get some rest Punk,….. and quite worrying about me!" Bucky chided as he opened his bedroom door.

"I will, as long as you do the same Jerk!" Steve yawned and Bucky nodded, smirking to himself as he entered his bedroom and began removing his navy blue combat gear, a hot shower calling his name.

As he stepped under the spray of hot water he let his mind wander, contemplating how he had reacted a little over a year ago when he had first been given a hot bath by Steve. The warmth of the water and smell of the soap had been so foreign to him and yet soothing even as he struggled against Steve and the heavy feeling of the sedative that Clint had shot him with. At the time he was not Bucky, just a scared and confused Asset, sick from withdrawal and lack of nutrition. He fought out of instinct and desperation, uncomprehending the kindness and care they were offering. His clouded and painfully distorted thoughts had assumed Steve was trying to drown him and it wasn't until his exhaustion and the sedative had become too much for his malnourished and weakened state, that the Winter Soldier had finally stopped struggling, laying limp and trembling, exposed and vulnerable in the warm soapy tub, head supported above the water by his target turned Handler. The Asset had wheezed congested breaths, eyes narrow and untrusting as his body shook, muscles worthless after weeks with out nutritional intake and the stabilizing drugs Hydra had fed him. Steve had spoken to him softly and gently, kind eyes searching for his friend beneath the lost and fearful Winter Soldier.

Bucky let out a sigh as he turned off the water and stepped out into the steamy bathroom, wiping the fogged, glass mirror with his flesh hand as he stared hard at his reflection. Most days were better now, he knew himself, he knew his friends and he was able to remain focused and in the present, instead of dragged back into the darkness of a hellish flash back. Yet even now, his hair cut short, face shaved and looking almost like he did in the 1940's, even after all this time, he still struggled to see himself when he dared to look at his own reflection. He gazed up at the mirror and searched his blue eyes for recognition of that smooth talking boy with Brooklyn charm and a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. Bucky sighed and looked away with a grimace, seeing only the cold, dead eyes of the Winter Solider staring back at him, full of pain and grief.

He had asked them to cut his hair a month or so after he had begun spending time in the memory room, wrapped in his mother's quilt, starring hard at the photos around him as he pushed his healing mind to grasp onto the fragments of his past. The sudden need to cut his long locks of brown hair had occurred to him after a long, fitful episode of memory recovery. Steve had found him shaking and sobbing in the middle of the floor, quilt wrapped around him as he released guttural cries of rage and despair. The Captain had shown up moments after Jarvis had notified him that Sargent Barnes was in distress. With gentle urgency Steve sunk to his knees pulling Bucky into his arms and speaking with calm authority as he ordered the Soldier to breath. They had stayed like that for almost an hour until at last the Asset's breathing had steadied and he sat up blinking wide, wet eyes at his hander. The Soldier spoke in a trembling and timid voice as he asked if he would be permitted to cut his hair. Steve had smiled at him with sad eyes and a nod, explaining once more how the Soldier did not need permission to change his appearance, that he was in control of his own body and no one else. The Asset had nodded as if understanding but they both knew he didn't, not really.

Now, all these months later and Bucky was finally the one in control. He turned away from the mirror and ignored the nauseous sensation he felt when ever he stared too long, shaking his head with gritted teeth at the fragile and broken voice inside his mind that filled him with self-doubt. He groaned and rubbed his tired eyes as he hung up the towel. He needed more sleep, perpetually exhausted and tired as he was never able to rest for more then a few hours, four at the most, before he was awoken by horrific nightmares that always felt too real and left him gasping and shaking. He had gotten better at suppressing his screams, not wanting to wake up Steve, and most nights he was successful. But then there were still some nights he couldn't break free, trapped in a terrifying dream where Hydra was ripping him apart and his hands where drenched in the blood of countless innocent, faceless souls. He would fight the sheets, body contorting in desperate agony until Steve shook him awake and held him close while he sobbed and gasped for air, clinging to his best friend with overwhelming fear and pain.

Those nights had become less these past few months and Bucky had gotten better at waking himself up and remembering who he was and where. He would simply go work out in the gym or bug Stark, who was always up tinkering in his lab. Occasionally he would find Clint wide awake in the common room watching a movie, the Archer admitting that he too had his own share of sleepless nights and far too real nightmares. The lack of sleep took it's toll however and so Bucky was prone to taking brief naps, falling asleep when ever he was sitting still for more then a half hour. The other's had gotten use to it and just knew to remove anything sharp or dangerous from around him and stay out of arms reach because when he awoke he would need a few seconds to reorient himself.

The Sargent walked stiffly over to his bed and collapsed into it with a sigh of relief, letting his heavy eyes drift shut as he reminded himself just how lucky he was to have this second chance. He felt like a man who had climbed his way out of the pits of hell, guided by his guardian angle who wore a blond halo of gold over patient and loving blue eyes that promised to always see him as a good man instead of the demon he had been transformed into. Bucky pulled his pillow to his chest, hugging it as he let his mind picture a laughing blond boy who held out his hand as he pointed toward a tall Tower, gleaming in the sun of a bright future.

…...

Bucky heard a soft melodic voice singing a familiar tune as awareness slowly reached him. He peeked open one groggy eye toward the door way of his bedroom and saw Steve leaning against the door frame with a fond expression as he waited patiently for his friend to wake. Bucky rubbed his face as he listened to the familiar and comforting music of his era. He dropped back into his pillow with a murmured sigh and a warm smile as he sleepily watched Steve cross into the room before taking a seat next to him on the bed.

"Hey Bucky,… You remember this song?" Steve asked softly as he rubbed Bucky's left shoulder where it joined with the metal limb, the muscle always tense and aching. Bucky made a groan as he shifted slightly onto his front to give Steve better access to the sore joint. He closed his eyes again and began humming to the tune as Steve kneaded the muscle.

"It's… I know it,….. give me a sec,….. " Bucky's eyes closed as his brown furled and he bit his lip, concentrating on the voice of the female singer. After a few moment's his eyes shot open and he turned toward Steve as he sat up right facing the Captain, an excited gleam in his eye and a twitch to his lips.

"Harry James and Kitty Kallen,….."It's been a long, long time coming." Bucky clapped his hands once in a sense of accomplishment, proud every time he remembered something new, another piece of his past.

"Yup!... You remember when we first heard this song?" Steve asked with an eyebrow raised and a coaxing smile on his face.

Bucky looked at him with a thoughtful expression before he narrowed his eyes and contemplated the answer. After another moment of thought Bucky's began to speak in a dreamy way, as he often did when imagining the details of a hazy and distant memory. "It was during the War.….. We where in a town,… French?... And I was dancing with this pretty little dame…" His blue eyes grew wide as he turned toward Steve with a bright grin. "It was my Birthday!... You had talked them into giving the Commandos three days leave to celebrate and hadn't told any of us,….. kept it a surprise!"

Bucky laugh as he patted Steve's knee with a shake of his head. Steve grinned and nodded with an expectant smile, waiting for Bucky to drawl the connection. Bucky looked at Steve for a moment with confusion before blinking and looking down at his Stark Watch that did all sorts of things, including tell him the date, March 10th 2015. Bucky looked at his watch with surprise then up at Steve with a baffled laugh.

"It's my Birthday!" He chuckled as he shook his head in disbelief.

"Happy Birthday Bucky Barnes!... Ninety-nine years ago today you where born!... But lets just call you 29,… You look good for your age!" Steve laughed with a nod as Bucky rolled his eyes and punched him in the arm.

"Thanks Punk!" He grinned rubbing his face in slight embarrassment that he had forgotten his own birthday.

"Your welcome Jerk!" Steve replied in kind. "Now rise and shine Sargent!... It's past 5 pm and Pepper has dinner planned for 6:30 sharp!" Steve stood with a smile as he walked over toward the door and grabbed a suite bag hanging up.

"Dinner planed?... For my Birthday?..." Bucky spoke with a tone of uncertainty as he gave Steve an imploring look that begged him to understand that he was sick of being the center of attention.

"Bucky!... Common!" Steve sighed as he brought the suite over and lay it on the chair before looking down at his frowning friend who would not meet his eyes. Steve ruffled his friend's bed head hair do and chuckled as Bucky swatted at his hand in annoyance. "Look,…" Steve sighed again and sat back down on the bed in front of Bucky, drawing his attention by reaching out to clasp his metal hand. Bucky looked down at the flesh and metal hands then up at Steve with a moody expression.

"Bucky this has been a really important year for you,… but also for me and for our team!... We want to celebrate your recovery and the fact that you fought your way back after Hydra tried to destroy you!" Steve's eyes winced slightly as Bucky visibly shuddered at the mention of Hydra before looking away with an embarrassed flush, jaw locked as he stared down at his hands.

"Bucky Barnes!,… A year ago you didn't even know who you were…" Steve was cut off as Bucky huffed.

"Sometimes I still don't!" The Sargent grumbled before rolling his eyes as Steve grabbed his jaw a little forcefully with his free hand that wasn't holding the cybernetic one, forcing their eyes to meet.

"Bucky!... You are a hero, and one of the bravest and strongest men I know!... Now be a man and face up to the fact that we are celebrating your Birthday!... Whether you like it or not!" Steve teased as he leaned in and kissed his friend on the forehead before releasing him with a playful shove. "Fix that ugly mug of yours and get dressed!...We don't wanna keep them waiting!" The Captain commanded as he headed for the door.

"Yea sure thing Cap,…. But I am betting Stark will be the last one there!" Bucky snickered and Steve let out a coughed laugh before he headed back to his own room to change into the suite Stark and Ms. Pots had tailored for the occasion. Steve smiled to himself as he thought about what the Avenger's had planed and then swallowed down the concern that it might be too much for his friend who was only just beginning to act like himself again, still cautious and full of self doubt and guilt. Steve shook his head and focused on how he could help Bucky enjoy himself the way he once could so naturally, unlike Steve who had always just been a tag along until the war. The Captain took out his suite and his smile returned as he heard Bucky from the other room.

"HOT DAMN STEVIE!...We are gonna look like a couple of Hepcats all decked out!" Bucky shouted with unmistakable glee from the other room. Steve chuckled as he looked at the expensive suite, cut and styled from the height of fashion in the 194o's.

"Yea Buck,….. lets show them how a real man dresses up….with class!" Steve grinned, feeling almost giddy and tremendously grateful that after a little over a year of patient heart ach, Bucky was finally going to celebrate his Birthday and the start of his new life by remembering the old.

…

Bucky had of course been right and Stark had been about twenty minutes late earning him a scowl from Pepper. They laughed as he joined the others in his own tribute to 1940's formal ware in a tailored suite just like the other gentlemen of the Avenger's and surprise company of Director Fury and Rody. The ladies had also dressed up for the occasion with Jane Foster, Maria Hill and Betty Ross all arriving before Bucky who was grinning and covering his mouth is speechless awe. Every one looked like they had just stepped out of the 40's, even Thor who had his hair pulled back wearing a fedora hat. Bucky smiled and shook his head as Steve pat him on the back and Stark handed him a Bourbon.

"A Toast in honor of our dear Sargent James Buchanan Barnes!" Stark raised his glass and Bucky hid his face in his hand but raised the glass as well. Natasha wrapped an arm around his shoulders as she sat on the arm of the reclining chair he had retreated to.

"A year ago to this day,….. We had the pleasure of presenting Sgt Barnes with a safe place to recover and some tools to help him find his way back…. " Stark turned and looked at Bucky with a contemplative nod and Bucky looked at him with a shy smile beneath nervous eyes. "It was not an easy Journey for him,….. or for us….." Stark smirked and Steve shook his head as they room sighed and chuckled, Bucky blushing again as he nodded. "But it was his strength of will and absolute determination that ultimately helped him break free from the two headed Bitch!" Stark spoke with a smirk and Bucky barked a laugh, appreciating his choice of words and how he didn't say the name Hydra, knowing how it rang loudly in the Sargent's ears even when whispered.

"So here is to you Sargent Barnes! You might be one lucky Bucky,… but it is your marvelous resilience and unwavering courage to move forward that has been your saving grace!... Thank you James, for being every bit the Man that Steve had promised you were and proving to us all once again that the bad guys never win!" Tony nodded with sincerity and the others all spoke up with agreement raising their glasses up. Bucky nodded with an emotional look before downing his drink, shaking slightly and overwhelmed by the praise. As If on que, knowing what he needed before even he did, Natasha grabbed his hand and dragged him to the balcony as the others all turned toward each other to converse, understanding that Bucky needed a moment to gain his composure.

Outside Bucky took in a deep breath as he leaned over the balcony railing, blinking his wet eyes up at the night sky over looking New York. Natasha stood next to him as she sipped her drink, not saying a word or looking at him. He gripped the balcony as he steadied his breathing and focused, blinking his eyes, feeling so deeply his gratitude and relief that it almost made him weak in his knees.

"I don't deserve this!" Bucky whispered low and raspy as his eyes grew distant, blurred by the sea of city lights. Natasha looked at him for a long moment then stood up strait, resting a hand on his shoulder as she threw back her drink.

"Neither do I,… But ya might as well just make the best of it, ….." Natasha turned and faced him full on and he did the same, offering an unsure smile. "And remember how to let your self live again!" With that she leaned in and gave him a soft, lingering kiss that made him catch his breath, her fingers soft on his face. She pulled away slowly with a smile and whispered in his ear. "Happy Birthday Bucky Barnes!"

Bucky's mouth was open as he watched her smile then saunter back inside calling over her shoulder that Dinner was about to be served. Bucky swallowed and nervously smoothed out his suite, a small grin on his face as he rolled his shoulders and headed inside, determined to once more be the man he knew he was.

…

Dinner had been amazing as was to be expected and Bucky enjoyed every bit of it, feeling relaxed and at ease in the company of friends. Thor had announced as the plates were being cleared that he had a special present for James Son of Barnes that should be shared with Captain America but no other mortal, his gaze looking sternly to Stark who rose his hands in question and then Clint who simply shrugged.

"This,…. My dear friend,… is from my world,… and such has strength not intended for mortal men." He handed Bucky and large glass container that was almost two feet long with beautiful colors and prisms that resembled crustal reflecting light. It had two large twisted handled on both sides of a long thin neck that was capped with a smooth stone that fit perfectly. Bucky had to stand up to accept it as he gazed in wonder and curiosity at the large, ornate jug full of liquid. "Open the lid and breath in the aroma Good Sargent." Thor smiled and nodded, the others all watching with fascination. Bucky looked slightly nervous but removed the stone that had sealed it and took and long breath, his eyes dilating immediately as a large smile blossomed on his face and let out a sound of amazement.

"Oh,….. wow,… This is,….. wow!" Bucky grinned; almost swaying where he stood just from the scent. Steve was at his side casting a concerned look at the magical potion then up at Thor who laughed and placed his hands up to convey no harm.

"Captain this is a bottle of Asgaurdian Ale over a thousand years old by our world so,…. Well,…. Lets just say it is ancient in yours….. Just the smell is intoxicating and a simple drink will be quite enough to ensure the Sargent is in a mood of merriment!" Thor clapped his hands as Steve took a sniff before he too stumbled back with a smile on his face, eyes blown wide and a dreamy look on his face. Bucky grinned as Steve wrapped a arm around him, both men watching with elated expressions as Thor poured two small glasses for the super soldier's and one larger one for himself before capping the lid. He pointedly looked at Tony before he whispered a low chant over the top and a vacuum sound sealed the top of the lid, ensuring it could not be removed. He grinned at Stark's eyebrowed look and then handed a glass to both men. "Let us drink now as friends and as warriors who must remember why it is we fight." He held up his glass and they toast before drinking down the strange, light pink liquid.

"Oh Jeez,…it,….. it tastes like,…. It tastes like caramel apples!" Bucky blurted out with excitement as he licked his lips in surprise, a grin on his face.

"What?... No,… I thought it tasted like my mom's Lemon Meringue Pie!" Steve disagreed with a lighthearted grin, his eyes glassed over. The other Avenger's and guests where chuckling and exchanging amused looks, having never seen either man intoxicated before. Thor laughed and clapped them both on the back.

"And that is part of the Magic of Asgaurdian Ale, it tastes like whatever you most long for,…. Mine tastes of Starlight Berries and Yendel Beast Cream." Thor explained as if those where commonly known foods. Both Steve and Bucky began to laugh, arms holding the other up.

"Thor,….. I swear sometimes I think your making this stuff up!" Bucky grabbed his side as Steve covered his mouth and shook his head.

"Well it looks like this party has officially stated!... And since Thor wont share any more of the good stuff,… which by the way appears to be more like a combination of shooms and nitrous then alcohol,….. Any one else want to do a round of shots before we head to the dance hall?" Tony asked as hands went up and Bucky slowed his laughter with a confused look and wide mouth smile, glancing from Steve to Tony then back again.

"Oh Bucky,….. Just you wait,… Stark is,….. well, he's just so big about every thing ya know?" Steve grinned with a shrug, clearly feeling the effects of the strong drink and luckily so was Bucky who just covered his face and laughed again leaning against his friend's shoulder.

…...

As they entered the large banquet hall turned Dance hall, Bucky skidded to a stop, eyes wide and mouth open in utter disbelief. Tony by way of Pepper had managed to turn the whole room into a replica of a Dance hall from the late 1930's early 1940's with a large Brass Band playing and a troop of no less then 30 professional swing dancers who were already dressed up and moving around the room doing the Jitter Bug. Men were swinging and Women were flipping over them as Bucky laughed in amazement, his grin so wide he had tears in his eyes.

"Happy Birthday Sgt!" Tony smiled as he placed a hand on his shoulder and Bucky turned toward him with a look of such appreciation and speechless bewilderment that Stark just rolled his eyes and let Bucky pull him into a tight hug.

"Okay,…..okay Barnes!... Your stronger then you know pal!" Tony wheezed as Bucky let go of him and turned back toward the crowd of dancers who hadn't stopped moving. The watched the familiar scene with nostalgia, Bucky tapping his foot and standing next to Steve. After a few minutes a small brunet girl with bright red lips that matched her well fitting dress and nails came by them with a flirtatious wink. Her hair and make up was perfect as was her attire and as she sauntered up towards the two Super Soldiers she leaned on her hip.

"Well aren't you Hotshots looking Snazzy!…..Say, which one of you boys is gonna ask this lady for a dance hmm?" She purred at them, her choice of language sounding slightly forced and put upon but the effort was nice.

"Go ahead Bucky!" Steve grinned as he none to gently shoved Bucky forward, the man stumbling slightly, nervously looking away and then back up to the girl's red lips, his heart pounding as she took his metal hand that was concealed by a glove.

"Well common then Daddy-O,…you gonna show me what ya got or you gonna flap your gums all day with the Captain here?" She grinned and Bucky flushed smiling back, letting the euphoric feeling of the Asgaurdian Ale relax him as he let himself be lead onto the dance floor. He chuckled as he saluted Steve and began to dance with the girl who looked the part and helped him feel like maybe he could go back in time to before Hydra had shattered his mind, body and soul. Bucky laughed as the music took hold and with the help of the drink and the girl in his arms he felt his body start to move like he once knew how, a dance of ecstatic energy and acrobatics instead of lethal and deadly. Bucky was grinning wide as together he and the girl began to tare up the dance floor, their moves in sync and fluid as Bucky let loose.

The other Avengers watched with genuine surprise and good natured applause as Bucky fell into a smooth rhythm of fancy foot work and animated arms with out the appearance of effort, the girl giggling as she attempted to keep up with him. All around him people were dancing and the sound of laughter and music filled his ears. He grinned and threw the girl over his shoulder and she landed with a startle laugh before grabbing another girl's attention. A tall Red head cut in with an easy spin and proved to be a more acrobatic dancer, taking Bucky's hand and following his lead. She had less trouble keeping up with his sharp moves and steady pace, her body easily spinning and flipping around him as Bucky hoisted her into the air and around his body.

Bucky danced with four different girls, eyes glowing over a steady smile. After almost 45 minutes strait Steve went out onto the floor and dragged him toward the bar for a water beak, aware that his friend had been lost in the moment, becoming fixated on the movements and muscle memory in a way that was eerily similar to the conditioned control of the Winter Soldier rather then the happy go lucky and care free dancing of days gone by. Bucky was breathing heavy with bright eyes, hands shaking with excitement as he guzzled the glass of water and another with a smile on his face the whole time as he nodded at Clint and Natasha.

"Looking Good out there Sargent!" Clint lifted his whisky in salute and Bucky nodded his thanks.

"Feel's like it's been so long since I really let loose!...Can't believe people still know how to dance like we did!" Bucky grinned as he watched the continuous flow of dancers, some teaching Thor and Jane a few moves while Dr. Banner and Dr. Ross stood near each other whispering and smiling. Sam was trying to keep up with a cute girl in blue while Tony and Pepper danced moderately along the edge. Bucky was sweating and his breathing hadn't slowed down despite his smile, eyes blinking rapidly as the room swirled and the bright colors and lights seemed to mix with the blaring of the brass band.

"Hey Bucky,… lets get a breath of fresh air!" Natasha stood up and held out her hand as Steve's expression became slightly worried, continuing to watch his friend who was still shaking. Bucky blinked a few times before nodding, his own brow crumpling as he realized he was feeling overwhelmed. Natasha offered him an easy smile as he accepted her arm. "Steve, ask them to play something slow for me and The Sargent to dance too when we come back in,….I don't want to make a fool of myself tripping over the foot work." She offered over her shoulder and Steve gave her a smile of gratitude and a nod of thanks sighing as they left, headed out onto the balcony for the second time that night.

"He really is doing amazing Steve,….. You worry too much!...And that makes him more self-conscience…..Harder to put on a brave face." Clint mused just as Sam came up huffing and flopped down in a bar stool next to him shaking his head as he accepted a glass of water.

"Man oh Man,…. I can't believe you guys use to dance like that!...How did people not get kicked in the head!" Sam laughed and Steve grinned shaking his head as Clint smirked. Sam followed Steve's gaze that wandered back toward the large open glass doors as he watched Bucky leaning over the Balcony and Natasha rubbing his back. "That Asguardian Ale must be some good stuff!... Haven't seen you or Barnes this at ease since….. well,…..ever." Sam huffed as he then ordered a harder drink.

"Yea,….. it definitely did the trick,….. but I still think Bucky might get overwhelmed a bit,….. He was kinda checked out for a few minutes back there." Steve swallowed as he gestured toward the dance floor with his head, eyes communicating his concern. Sam nodded and looked at Clint who simply shrugged with a nod, both men knowing that when Steve said "checked out" he meant Bucky was acting like the Winter Soldier.

It happened much less often and he usually snapped out of it on his own after only a few seconds but they had each found him at one point or another, scowling at nothing, eyes lost in thought or in the Gym working out beyond exhaustion, as if being tested. Most recently it was with Pepper in the Kitchen, helping her cut up onions, his movements precise and repetitive, face locked in determination. He did not respond when she called his name and so she backed out of the Kitchen slowly and asked Jarvis to call Steve. The Captain had walked up in front of his friend and after calling his name, calmly reached out and placed his hand on Bucky's metal arm. In a flash the knife was up against Steve's throat and The Soldier was staring at him but not seeing him, pupils dilated and nostrils flared with forceful breaths, jaw locked.

It had taken a minute or so of calm authoritative words and gentle coaxing before James Barnes blinked rapidly and looked at Steve with at first confusion and then shock, dropping the knife and backing away with a cry of horror. He had trembled and clenched his fists as he backed away from Steve into the far corner, repeating himself over and over, 'Oh God,….I'm Sorry! Jeasus!...Please… I'm sorry!' Steve approached him just as he had when his friend was still locked within Hydra's Conditioning and Programing, speaking slowly with reassurances and direct orders to 'Calm down,' and 'Breath Buck,….. That's it!' After that episode it was decided that Bucky wasn't expected to help out in the kitchen anymore.

"He is doing alright through Cap,… better then alright honestly." Sam offered as they watched from afar as Bucky stood up and Natasha fixed his hair for him and striated his dress shirt and tie.

"That's what I have been telling him!" Clint chuckled as Sam nodded in agreement.

"What?... Tell Captain Worry Wort that Barnes is doing just swell at this Birthday Hoopla!?" Stark walked up behind them as he ordered a drink for himself and Pepper who was talking with Betty and Bruce.

"I know he is!" Steve huffed indignant at the other men before looking away toward Bucky then back at them with a sigh and small smile. "It's just been so long since he was able to relax and enjoy himself with out a flash back or panic attack or,…. Some other thing. I just,… I want to see him stay happy and not just pretend for my sake!" Steve sighed and shook his head as Sam, Tony and Clint exchanged knowing looks.

"You two are quite the pair Rogers!... Both so busy being concerned for the other that you forget how to ease up and enjoy your selves!." Stark sighed before turning his direction. "Ms. Pots,….. I need your assistance please!" Tony smiled as Pepper excused her self and joined the men by the bar with a warm smile. "Captain Negative Nancy over here needs an attitude adjustment and a turn on the dance floor!" Tony patted Steve on the back as Pepper rolled her eyes but took his arm with a warm smile.

"Comon Steve, I need to dance with a man who isn't too busy primping his feathers for attention!" She winked at Tony who let out a huff in protest. They watched as Pepper lead him to the dance floor and he gave a signal for the band to start playing something slow. With amused smiles they watched as Natasha lead Bucky out onto the floor and they began to dance next to Steve and Pepper, swaying gently to the easy beat.

Bucky sighed, leaning in close to Nat as his gaze caught with Steve's and they both gave a small nod, grateful to one another and to the women in their arms and the men that watched their backs. It was a new era and while so much had changed, at least something's hadn't. They had each other and together they would make it through anything. Bucky closed his eyes as he held Natasha close, breathing deeply with relief and contentment.

The End!

And coincidently I am publishing this Chapter on my own Birthday! Horray!

There will be more stories to come, all Hurt /Comfort, some slash some not and some pre War or during the War. Much love and Please share your thoughts if you are so inclined!