In this post Flag Smashers novel Bucky reconnected with his 94 year old sister Rebecca, living with her in her small Brooklyn house while he underwent therapy, made amends, and helped Sam in the mission against the Flag Smashers. Then Rebecca suffe...
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Content warning: Contains racist and misogynistic insults, and violence causing injury.
That final week of 2024 was the week Bucky put his official notice in at the docks. He never betrayed Rick's revelations to him about the future of the jobs at the docks. Having worked for the man for a year and a half he had faith that the manager would make sure everyone there was given an opportunity to continue on where they were needed. Matt Murdock came out to the docks on Monday, December 30th, had lunch with Bucky, and agreed to represent John Walker, promising to make sure the man was given every chance to redeem himself. Bucky took the opportunity to ask if Matt was interested in becoming one of the Avengers. A smile creased the lawyer's face before he shook his head.
"No, I think I do better dealing with issues on my own," he replied. "I work too much outside of the law when I'm dealing with some of the lowlifes I've had to take on. If you ever need me to have your back though, just call."
"My offer to treat your injuries still stands," said Bucky. "Witch hazel is great for bruises and inflammation, especially if you wrap a cloth soaked in it around the injury. That's free advice."
"I'll remember that," smiled Matt, then he put his hand out. "It's been a pleasure helping you. You're a good man."
"So are you," replied the super soldier. "I'm leaving the docks, now that the Avengers are going ahead. Tomorrow, January 2nd and 3rd are my final days. You still have my number?"
"Yeah," replied the lawyer, standing up. "I do." He leaned down and spoke to Bucky in a voice that was low enough that only he could hear it. "The Power Broker. Is she on your radar?"
"She might be if she gets out of line," he replied. "Why?"
"She provided some crucial information that was passed on to Colonel Rhodes, but it came with the proviso that the Avengers stay out of her business. I think he agreed to her terms. I'm not an Avenger and if she ever sets her sights on my beat, I won't ignore it."
Bucky smiled and nodded. "No, you're not an Avenger. She doesn't know about you. Be careful around her. She was on the good side once and knows how to exploit that."
With a nod Matt stood up, unfurled his white cane and left the café. Bucky finished his lunch, paid the tab, and headed back to finish out the day. While he was finishing some paperwork, he received a text message from Tracey.
T: Just heard from my mom. My dad signed the divorce papers. She can sign them this afternoon at the lawyers. Their house has sold. She's finally free.
B: Good to hear. What a good way to end the year.
T: She also let slip she's going out New Year's Eve with Rhodey to some Washington party. Said not to expect her home until the 2nd of January.
Bucky remembered the talk with Rhodes about his intentions on Christmas Day. Something told him that Janice was the one determining how their relationship progressed, which was fine by him.
