The statement threw Steve just as much, but it was exactly what he needed to hear to renew his faith and determination. Bucky was still in there, somewhere, he just had to figure out how to get him out. It wouldn’t be easy, and it wouldn’t make the last seventy years go away, but he would be there to help it friend through it all. He just had to get Bucky to let him.

Before he could reply Bucky shifted, looking ready to run any second, and claimed he should leave. Steve just barely held himself back from taking a step toward him. “Wait,” he said, holding his hands up in a submissive gesture. “You found me for a reason. You want answers,” he deduced. “I can help you with that.”

Please let me help you.