Bucky wordlessly handed over his handkerchief. Once Steve stemmed the blood flow from his nose, his best friend gingerly helped him up. They walked back to Steve's apartment instead of Bucky's. Mrs. Rogers didn't get off shift for a few more hours, Bucky would be able to clean and bandage Steve up without a fuss.

Wrapping Steve's hand, Bucky heaved a sigh too heavy for one so young, "you promised me."

Steve was about to argue that Nick was making fun of the neighbor girl again, but he was cut off.

"You promised," Bucky said, looking Steve in the eyes. All the hurt and worry that filled Bucky's eyes stopped Steve's words in his throat.

Steve can't promise he will do better next time. Someone had to stand up to the bullies. But he promised to wait for as long as he could for Bucky to come and help.

**************************************************************************************