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Every year gets harder for him when that day comes around.
Nowadays, July 4th celebrates Sam, as the new Captain America. but Bucky still carries the wound in his heart of Steve.
He knows Sam does too, on days where the shield feels too heavy or when he doubts the good work he does.
“AJ, what’s all this?” Bucky asks, all the baking supplies spilling over their kitchen counter. Sarah’s out running errands, so they have the boys over to watch.
“Uncle Sam says we’re making a cake, for Steve’s birthday!” The boy seems distracted, measuring out the flour in a bowl. From behind him, he sees Sam digging through the pantry.
“What’s this all about?” Bucky leans against the doorframe, finally spotting Sam juggling sprinkles and frosting in his arms.
Sam shrugs up at him, kneeling on the floor of the pantry. “Thought the old man would like it.”
Bucky smiles. He would.