[He doesn't expect Bucky to be surprised - or, really, to even respond to it, so it's okay when he doesn't. It's just, Steve knows they're not the same, it's stupid to pretend they are.
But Bucky's not alone, and it's stupid to let him keep thinking that, too. Steve can do his best to leave him alone, but he can't help but point out that he's here, and he's not some naive little kid, and he's prepared and able to hear anything Bucky might want - or need - to tell him.]
I will. I promise.
[Normally he'd make some joke, but he knows agreement - and keeping his word - is what will make Bucky feel best here. So it's not hard to do at all.]
private, text
But Bucky's not alone, and it's stupid to let him keep thinking that, too. Steve can do his best to leave him alone, but he can't help but point out that he's here, and he's not some naive little kid, and he's prepared and able to hear anything Bucky might want - or need - to tell him.]
I will. I promise.
[Normally he'd make some joke, but he knows agreement - and keeping his word - is what will make Bucky feel best here. So it's not hard to do at all.]