It was a little unsettling to realize just how accommodating Rumlow had been this entire time. Then again, Steve also understood that he wasn't the easiest guy to befriend if it went past making jokes while on the job. He closed himself off in the way that people didn't notice at first, but he and Rumlow had been partnering up for a year now. It figured that he had his number at this point, and therefore knew what to say to keep Steve coming back.

Instead of trying to analyze every single part of this, though, Steve realized that he should just accept that maybe he had another friend in his life, even if it was an unexpected one. He never would have imagined becoming buddies with Rumlow before he entered the military, that much was for sure. Rumlow had a rough edge to him that probably would have rubbed Steve the wrong way back in the day.

Still, it had all worked out surprisingly well, if that kiss back there was anything to go by. Steve might just be able to let his guard down if they kept this up, and maybe that was what scared him most. "I appreciate it," he said eventually, as he started back for the door into the living area. "I mean, I know you don't have to do any of this. Offering up your place and all..."

Where was he even going with this? Steve sighed and rubbed at the side of his neck, looking over his shoulder at Rumlow. "I guess what I'm trying to say is thanks."