Although he isn't always as smart as Steve when it comes to emotional stuff, Bucky is no slouch and he knows there's more here than meets the eye. He knows there's going to be more from the time he was away, nobody's life goes on hold, and just because he was going through stuff doesn't mean Steve wasn't too. It's just going to take some time for both of them to unpack what the other has gone through.

He hopes they have that time.

But this is something he can do now. It's stupid, but he's got it into his head that if he can still look out for Steve then maybe he's still got a chance of being okay, so his jaw firms and he shakes his head.

"Not a dumb idea, I'll be here. If they try and throw me out, I'll make Penny growl at 'em. What time does it start?"

If it lets him miss another of these stupid sessions, he'll love Steve forever.