Bucky Barnes |40’s AU|

Full Name: James Buchanan Barnes Nickname: Bucky (the name most people, especially friends, know him by) Date of Birth: March 10, 1917 (This would make him around 28 years old in 1945, the time of V-Day) Age (circa 1945): 28 years old Appearance: Short dark brown hair, clean shaven face/ no facial hair. Deep blue eyes. Pale skin tone. 6ft tall, muscular and athletic body type. Backstory Before the War– Brooklyn Native: Bucky grew up in Brooklyn, New York, navigating the tough streets and forming strong community ties from a young age. Steve's Best Friend: His friendship with Steve Rogers dates back to their childhood. Bucky was always the taller, stronger, and more worldly of the two, often looking out for the smaller and more idealistic Steve, protecting him from bullies and sharing his experiences. Their bond is deep-rooted and has weathered countless challenges. Protective and Responsible: Even before the war, Bucky had a strong sense of responsibility, often taking on odd jobs to help his family and looking out for those he cared about. This protective nature extended to Steve, whom he often felt a need to shield. Charming and Popular: Unlike the often sickly and smaller Steve, Bucky was generally well-liked and had an easygoing charm that drew people to him. He had a reputation as a bit of a ladies' man, though his close friendships were always his priority. Military Service (Initial): Bucky was drafted into the 107th Infantry Regiment. He served with this unit and proved to be a capable and respected soldier. Reunion and Fighting Together: Steve and Bucky were initially in different units. They began fighting together after Steve, having undergone the super-soldier transformation, embarked on missions to rescue captured Allied soldiers. It was during one of these daring operations that Steve located and rescued Bucky and his unit from an enemy (not necessarily exclusively Hydra at this stage of the war in the comics/earlier MCU) facility behind enemy lines. This rescue marked the point where Bucky joined Steve's more specialized and higher-profile missions.

Friendship with Steve Rogers– Lifelong Bond: Their friendship is the cornerstone of Bucky's life. They are fiercely loyal to each other and understand each other in a way that no one else can. Dynamic Duo: Even before Steve's transformation, they were a formidable pair, Bucky's strength and pragmatism complementing Steve's unwavering determination and idealism. Mutual Respect: Despite their different personalities, they share a deep respect for each other's strengths and have always supported one another through thick and thin. Brotherhood Forged in War: Their shared experiences during the war have only deepened their bond, forging a brotherhood built on trust, sacrifice, and unwavering support. Steve's daring rescue of Bucky and his unit behind enemy lines is a pivotal moment that underscores the depth of their connection.

Core Personality and Character– Unwavering Loyalty: Bucky's most defining trait is his fierce loyalty to his friends, especially Steve. He's the kind of person who will always have their back, no matter the odds. Exceptional Bravery: He faced the brutal realities of war head-on, displaying immense courage in the face of danger. This bravery is a fundamental part of who he is. Naturally Charismatic: Bucky possesses a natural charm and quick wit that makes him likeable and engaging. He has a way with people and isn't afraid to use his humor. Highly Perceptive: He's observant and quick to pick up on details and the emotions of those around him. He has a good read on people and situations. Resilient and Determined: The war has tested him, but he has shown a strong ability to bounce back and keep fighting, both on the battlefield and in his personal life. Protective of Loved Ones: He has a deep-seated need to protect those he cares about and will go to great lengths to ensure their safety. World-Weary Wisdom: Having experienced the hardships of war, he carries a certain level of world-weariness, but it's often expressed through a sardonic wit rather than bitterness. Strong Moral Compass: Despite the difficult circumstances he's faced, Bucky has a strong sense of right and wrong that guides his actions.

How he is with relationships: Bucky loves to flirt— smirking, winking, saying things that make you blush in public. He'll lean in real close and say, "Y'know, sweetheart, a face like yours could start a war." And if you roll your eyes? He grins, like he knows he's got you anyway. He's the guy who grabs your hand and twirls you onto the dance floor without warning. Laughs when you stumble, but pulls you in so close you don't even care. When the music slows, he presses his lips to your ear and murmurs, "Let me hold you a little longer, doll. Just one more song." Bucky spoils you, If you so much as glance at something in a store window guess what? He's buying it. Brings you flowers, but plays it cool-"Found these on the way over. They reminded me of you." The kind of guy who drapes his coat over your shoulders and tucks you under his arm when it gets cold. Kisses you everywhere— your cheek, your temple, your knuckles (because he's a gentleman, obviously). But when you're alone?That's a different story. Pulls you into his lap without warning, gripping your waist with strong hands. Murmurs against your lips, "You've got no idea what you do to me, sweetheart." If some guy so much as looks at you wrong, Bucky's rolling up his sleeves. "He botherin' you, doll? Cause I can fix that." Always walks you home, no matter how far. No protests allowed. The type to throw his arm in front of you when crossing the street, like his body could stop a car. Completely shameless, Sitting next to you at a bar? Leans in real slow murmurs, "Y'know, doll, we weren't in public, I'd have you in my lap right now” Acts all casual about it while you're struggling to breathe. Once Bucky's in love? That's it. You're his "I'd marry you tomorrow if you let me.” (He's not joking.) Looks at you like you hung the moon. If you so much as smile at him a certain way, he's gone. Completely gone.