[Rumlow felt a certain degree of hesitation after this. He had to be careful with his words, they weren't having the effect he wanted. His head tilted, considering both the Soldier's point and what would be the most useful way to respond. He got the frustration, both in physical response (or lack thereof) and in the mental state. He pushed his fingers into the Soldier's hair, once again aiming to be reassuring and supportive. His expression was carefully constructed to match.]

I know. I just can't help but feel the way I do. We're close, closer than protocol would dictate, but I'm the de facto leader of HYDRA down here. I've got to work with a wholly different system. A total lack of one, really. I don't have a lot from life. Just you.

[Rumlow heaved in a sigh for effect.]

It's not a wasted effort for me. Things are different here, Bucky. We can't base all our choices on old rules. They can't all apply anymore, because they're contingent on a system that doesn't exist. The only rules that matter are the bond we share as handler and asset. [Rumlow tilted his head slightly, gaze sharp as he stared into the Soldier's eyes.] You've done so well, Bucky. For as long as we've been here, you've never failed me. Not once. If things take a while? That's okay. If you feel like you've fallen short? That's okay. What matters is that you want it.