Well. That was a start. Something to take notes on was still better than nothing, at least until the issue could be properly addressed. And he had a feeling he would be needing every scrap he could get his hands on, even if mostly only for his personal records. Speaking with Sam seemed to be prudent by her description, so he made a personal note to himself to seek out the man at a later time.

To her admission, he offered a small, honest smile. He couldn't remember the last time anyone had said anything like that to him. Even such words were often lost with Steve, the expectation for Bucky to go along with everything stronger than any formalities they used to keep between them. God. Time really changed so much, hadn't it?

“I could say the same for myself.” The corners of his eyes crinkled with that small bit of care he guarded with his life. “Better to be stuck with allies than alone. And I know I’m not Steve, but I don’t plan on leaving any of his friends high and dry if I can help it.” A shrug followed, his eyes drifting back to the bowl as he stirred the contents idly. “You guys gave up a lot for him without even knowing me. So. It’s the least I can do to repay you.”