Work Text:
He couldn't breathe. Between bounds of fever, he was coughing. He prayed Bucky hadn't noticed the flowers, or him scratching his neck.
He felt at death's door. Bucky's presence made it worse.
And yet, Bucky refused to abandon him, determined to help.
Bucky had left that morning, for work. It was evening now.
"I have an idea," Bucky said quietly, pleading, then leaned close, and softly kissed Steve on the lips. "I love you. Always have. I'm sorry it took so long"
Steve felt the pressure on his lungs ease enough to croak out "I love you too"
He breathed.