he who hesitates is toast

Her laughter peals out, following them like a bell ringing, as he carries her off down the hall. Alpine gives them a confused look, then hops off the couch and onto the table by the window. Her last view of him before Bucky brings her through the bedroom door is of him settling down for a little bird-watching.

"I think he'll get over it," she promises, and leans down to kiss him back.