This Christmas is the first that I feel like I have a family. One that takes care of each other and genuinely takes the time to really know each other.
To Natasha:
I have never been more grateful to have such a wise woman in my life. You are skilled in what you do, but you don't give yourself enough credit for the other skills you posses. Your patience is what really kept me around you as you helped me learn, even when something sounded ridiculous, even if you laughed at my expense...you were still there. Still are. Thanks for that.
To Tony:
I didn't think we'd get along at all, and now here we are, I'm the godfather of your daughter. Looking back at every moment, every interaction, I can honestly say that our tension was justified. We needed to butt heads a little to see each other's true colors---I think that's why we are so close now; There's nothing to hide.
To Bruce:
We didn't get to talk as much as I'd hoped we would, but the discussion we did have were enlightening. I learned a lot of things about you I would have never known otherwise. I really do enjoy your company. I implore you to seek out what /you/ want from now on though...don't dwell so much on what others desire. Your life is worth it; So go on, achieve your goals, follow those dreams and make that difference you always wanted to make. I know you have it in you.
To Sam:
To another year of giving us hell. I don't know if you know this, but that's what really keeps me going. Someones gotta have a sense of humor around here, and I gotta be honest, it's usually not me. At least not on missions. You're a great person, Sam. I feel like more people should see just how important you really are.
To Bucky:
This isn't the first Christmas we've spent together, and it sure as hell won't be the last. There are probably a million things I could go on about...but I really only feel like one is necessary. I know you. And I know your heart. Beyond the snarky things you say to change the subject, I know that there is hurt that you haven't dealt with yet. Hell, I'm not sure if you ever will. But just know this, you are a hero and /nothing/ will ever change that.
I feel your heart beating and the warmth of your skin...you don't have to stay in the ice forever. And no present, no speech, no amount of SHIELD counseling can change what you went through...but just know that you have a /family/ who /loves/ you...not for the man behind that mask...but for the man you always were.
