[ the pause and the way Sam hesitates before answering makes Bucky wonder if making the offer was a good idea, and he's suddenly nervous. maybe it was still too soon to tell, maybe Sam was still uncomfortable with the thought of running because of Steve's new gal pal - maybe Sam didn't want to be around Bucky any more than he had to be. there were dozens of reasons and Bucky's insecurities picked up on all of them, making the temptation to take it back and slink away hard to resist.

so it's surprising when Sam doesn't turn him down. it's not like he's jumping up and down at the idea, but it's not a flat out "no." Bucky figures he might as well take what he can get, and maybe getting back out there with a new running partner will help cheer Sam up a little more. it sounds like a good plan.

the jibe at Steve does make him laugh a little bit, but even that doesn't sound like a friendly teasing jibe so Bucky rubs his nose and clears his throat. ] Tough request, but I think I can manage that. [ hell, if poking fun at Steve ends up being what cheers Sam up, Bucky does remember a few pretty embarrassing stories to tell. ] And I'm always up for unhealthy breakfast. Can't eat proper all the time.