Work Text:
Of all places to experience a flash of painful nostalgia, Zemo didn't expect it to happen at this little barbeque party of 4 to celebrate his pardon.
Everything really reminded him of his days with his Scorpions, from the shopping trip to making sure they even had the grill to begin with.
As he finally sat by the grill, enjoying the food and the company – particularly James' – he found it hard to let himself join in the festive mood. Yes he's definitely happy to be with James, and yes it's at least not a two person only event, what with the two falcons present. Still he's haunted by the guilt of abandoning the living – his squad and Oeznik – all in favor of vengeance against the dead.
He didn't realize he was trying to hold his tears until he felt hands – one vibranium and the other flesh – cupping his face. His eyes met James', and now his feelings were mixing up a storm. Tears rolled down and James slowly stroked his cheek, following with a gentle kiss on the forehead. A silent way of saying “It's okay”.
Zemo closed his eyes and buried himself into his lover's arms. He could at least enjoy James' company, even with all the guilt and sorrow.