Sam ducks his head a little, chest tight in a way that, for once, doesn't have anything to do with panic or adrenaline. He's used to being the guy that believes in people, who's ready to be there for them until they can belive in themselves. Even though his journey started out with a few people ready to believe in him while he picked himself back up, sometimes it still surprises him when he gets it in return. "You're one of my best friends, you know that?"

It's affectionate and playful, but given what he just admitted, it's kind of a confession, too.

Not one he wants to dwell on, though, so he thumps Bucky's shoulder lightly with his fist. "Thank you. Not a lot of people I'd trust more to have my back."