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Learning to Understand by surrendermysoul
Fandoms: The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel, Thunderbolts (Movie 2025), Captain America - All Media Types
13 Oct 2026
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Summary
Set directly after the end of Thunderbolts. Sam and Bucky finally act on their long-simmering attraction and begin a relationship. As they navigate their new relationship, conversations about the past lead them to reconsider how they treated John. Small discoveries about his military service, sacrifices, personal losses, and the consequences of his public disgrace gradually reveal how little they truly knew about him. They begin to recognize their double standard and realize they judged John by his worst moments. Determined to make amends, Sam and Bucky seek ways to repair the damage they helped cause. The more they learn about John, the more they realize they are developing deeper feelings for the man. However, John remembers their contempt and accusations. He has no reason to trust their sudden concern, which feels more like guilt or pity than genuine care. He keeps them at a distance, forcing them to prove their intentions through actions rather than words. They judged his mistakes, condemned his failures, and never questioned whether the government had treated him unfairly. He isn't about to let them ruin his life a second time, even if he isn't sure there is anything left to ruin.