"Yeah, I'm a little stubborn like that," Steve tried to laugh, though it came out just a little flat. But it was true. And somehow, the fact that Sam understood his decision - and didn't try to talk him out of it - made him feel a lot better about it. Maybe Sam would have supported him either way, but he liked to think that if Sam really thought he was going to do the wrong thing, he'd have said something. His genuine support means everything in the world to Steve, just now.

And once the decision is made, Steve actually relaxes, just a little. Oh, the hard part isn't over, but at least he's made a decision, one he can at least feel is the right one. He leaned back into the couch a little, eyes starting to flutter closed (out of relief, not exhaustion) when Sam leaned closer, making Steve's lips quirk up just a little. "I... was supposed to make some stuff up to you," he said quietly - and he probably hadn't gotten much of a chance. "Is late better than never?" He had a feeling Sam wouldn't exactly say no.