[ Bucky rises to his feet and Steve moves a half step behind him, shaking his head in frustration and denial, close enough that he can almost feel the heat of his friend's breath as sure as he can hear it in his voice. ]

What do you want me to say — and don't, don't say 'nothing'. What do you want me to say, Buck? I'm sorry. I'm sorry I decided to leave. I'm sorry you have to deal with me now. I'm sorry that nothing I can say is gonna be good enough, make up for it—

[ He's face is flushed, features tight. ]

I'm goddamn sorry, Buck.

[ He can stare at that compass all day and it won't matter.

He doesn't get it. He doesn't understand why he goes back. ]