Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Y/N thought her grandmother was the most amazing person in the world. Losing her parents before she was even one, her grandmother has been her sole guardian as long as she can remember. Her grandfather, who had passed away as well, was a wealthy business man, with her grandmother as his partner. They lived in a beautiful mansion.

Y/N prided herself in being all of the things her grandmother had taught her to be. Kind. Courageous. Outspoken. Smart. Giving. Her grandmother was her hero and she was the most important person in her life. Well, besides Tony.

Anthony Edward Stark was Y/N’s best friend. The two were introduced at a very young age due to the Starks being Y/N and her grandmother’s neighbors. The two instantly clicked despite Tony’s ego and Y/N’s more conservative nature. Guess that’s why Howard, Maria, and Y/N’s grandmother thought they’d be great friends. Tony would help Y/N break out from her comfort zone and Y/N would help bring his ego down a view notches. All through out their grade school years, Y/N was always second to Tony in academics. But she didn’t mind as long as they were by each other’s sides.

When Tony got shipped off to boarding school at age eleven, it was terribly hard for both of them. They had been inseparable for so long that this was awful for them both. While Y/N struggled more openly during their times apart, Tony would never admit it aloud that being apart from Y/N was the hardest thing he had ever done. They talked as much as they could; phone calls, emails, packages, and letters. Tony also visited home as often as he could.

Though Tony’s father Howard liked the good influence that Y/N had over Tony, he felt that she was a distraction while Tony was attending school. So it would often be Y/N’s grandmother and Tony’s mother Maria who would help get Tony home for a visit. Maria loved Y/N like she was her own and wished that one day the two would realize that they were meant to be much more than friends. Y/N’s grandmother agreed, able to see the way the young pair looked at each other.

Throughout the years, Y/N’s feelings toward her best friend had grown into much more than friendship. But she would never let him know that. She didn’t want to lose her best friend. It killed her though to see Tony with the many other girls he waltzed around with, knowing that he deserved better. Y/N didn’t necessarily believe that she was better for him, but she did know that the girls he was choosing to bring around were not good enough for Tony. She also spent a lot of time comparing herself to the other girls. Her looks, her smarts, her talents.

Y/N believed that no one, especially the girls Tony would bring around, could possibly appreciate or understand Tony enough to truly love him. The way his big, brown eyes lit up when he got excited or had an idea, no matter how crazy or over the top it was. The way he wiggled his eyebrows around while he teased. He laugh. His love for cars and technology. Anything and everything that made Tony, well, Tony.

Unbeknownst to Y/N, Tony was in love with her as well. Her smile. The way she walked. How she cared for everything and everyone around her. It killed him to see her around other guys. Of course, she didn’t bring many around because she could be shy at times. But the ones that did come around, Tony usually scared them off pretty quickly. Tony believed that Y/N deserved better than the guys she chose to hang around, better than Tony himself. And that’s what kept him from telling her how he felt. He would never be good enough for her. And that belief is what broke them.

~~~

“Is he here yet?” Y/N asked as she ran up to the front window and eagerly looked out of it.
Her grandmother chuckled from where she was sitting. “I’m sure he’ll knock when he gets here, sweetie.”
“I know, I know. It’s just been so long! It’s December and we haven’t been able to see each other since September. And there’s my MIT letter sitting on the counter and I don’t know if I was accepted or if he was accepted and I’m kind of—“

Y/N’s rambling got interrupted by a car racing up the drive way and honking. She spun to face the window again and jumped for joy.

“He’s here!” She squealed.

She ran to the front doors and threw one of them open. She raced done the steps of her mansion home.

“Tony!” Y/N shouted as he stepped out of the drivers side of his car.

The young man’s smile grew upon hearing her voice. Y/N threw herself into Tony before he could shut his car door.

“Ooof,” he grunted, stumbled back as his arms wrapped around her.
“You’re here!” She exclaimed, burying her face into his neck.
“You didn’t think I’d make it?” He chuckled.
“No, I knew you would. I’m just so glad you’re here.”
“Me too.” He kissed her cheek, holding her close to him.
“You two lovebirds are going to catch a cold out there!” Grandmother teased from the doorway. The pair laughed as they pulled a part.
“We’re coming, Grandmother!” Y/N responded. “Let’s hurry and get your bags before she comes after us.”
“Alright.” He led her to the trunk of the car, opening it with his key. The two quickly grabbed the bags and headed up the stairs to the house. “Have you opened the letter yet?”
“No.” She shook her head swiftly. “I’ve been waiting for you.”
“Good. Cause mine’s burning a hole in my back pocket.”
“Anthony,” Grandmother greeted with a large smile, reaching to hug him. “It’s so good to see you.”
Tony willingly gives the older lady a hug. “It’s good to see you too, Grandmother.” He pulled away and she cupped his cheeks.
“You get more handsome each time I see you.”
“Well, I try.” Tony shrugged, pulling back with a wink.
“And doesn’t Y/N get more beautiful?”
“Grandmother,” Y/N whined.
“No, Grandmother is right,” Tony quickly said.
Y/N’s lips parted in shock as her face heated up. “Thanks,” she responded softly. Tony smiled as her before heading into the house.
“Are you two going to open your letters now?” Grandmother asked as she closed the door behind the young pair. “Or, Anthony, are you going to wait to do it with your parents?”
Tony scoffed. “They’ve already left for a meeting. Mom said she doesn’t know how long they’ll be gone.”
“So you’ll be staying here for Christmas?” Y/N asked, trying not to seem too eager.
“Of course he is!” Grandmother answered for him. “We wouldn’t let him spend it alone.”
“Thank you, Grandmother,” Tony said sincerely with a light smile. “Now,” he set his bags down, signaling Y/N to do so as well, “where’s your envelope? Let’s open this suckers up!”

Y/N giggled as she led them to where her letter was on the counter. She took a deep breath as she took the envelope in her hand and turned to face the two most important people in her life.

“Ready?” Tony asked. Y/N nodded. “Okay, on three. One, two, three.”

The two quickly ripped open their envelopes and pulled out the letters. They read them quietly, mouthing the words as their eyes rushed over each word.

“So…?” Grandmother said, impatiently.

The pair meet each others eyes, faces not giving anything away. Gradually the two began smiling. The laugh as they jump into each others arms. Tony spun Y/N around.

“We did it!” They yell together. “We’re in!”
“Oh my gosh! I’m so proud of you both!” Grandmother congratulated.

Tony set Y/N down, but they kept hold of one another. They stared at each other, lightly panting.

“We did it,” Y/N whispered.
“We did it,” Tony repeated with a smile.

~~~

Tony graduated from his boarding school early, starting at MIT a semester before Y/N. During this time, the two were able to talk a lot more because there wasn’t anymore boarding school rules preventing them from doing so.

Tony also made a new friend, James Rhodes. He was planning on graduating from MIT early before joining the Air Force. Tony told Y/N all about her and Rhodey’s, his new nickname for his friend, adventures. Always getting into trouble. He even brought her out to visit for a few weekends, getting her to meet his knew friend. Rhodey was definitely a mix of Y/N and Tony, and was a welcome addition to their small friend group. Y/N felt comfort knowing there was someone more sensible watching out for Tony when she wasn’t able to.

Y/N graduated from high school; Tony, Rhodey, Grandmother, and the Starks attending her graduation. Tony tried to not feel bitter that his father had shown up to her graduation and not his own sons. But it didn’t really matter, because now Y/N was going to join him at MIT.

Tony and Rhodey helped Y/N pack up her childhood bedroom and move to MIT. Tony comforted Y/N as she cried, feeling bad for leaving her Grandmother all alone. Grandmother had promised that she would be fine and that they would talk often, but it still didn’t soothe all of Y/N’s worries.

While at MIT, it was clear to Rhodey that the two had feelings for one another. He would talk to both of them separately about it, and would just get excuses.

“There’s no way he sees me like that,” Y/N would say, shaking her head. “You’ve seen the girls he goes out with. He has a type, I’m not it.”
Tony’s responses were no better. “I’m not good enough for her. She deserves someone so much better than me. Who wouldn’t hurt her and who could give her the world.”

It annoyed Rhodey, but he knew there was nothing he could really do about him. Both Tony and Rhodey ended up graduating early and Rhodey left soon after for the Air Force. Tony was then a wandering man, set to take over his father’s company when he was older but there was no telling when that would be. So he just began inventing his own things, like he had already but this time selling them and showing them off.

Y/N supporting him as she continued her schooling to be a neurologist, wanting to cure many of the world’s neurological problems. She watched as he showed a crowd his invention and then would disappear with one of the easily impressed women there. She would then be forced to wait, as they would drive together. Tony would always apologize to her, guilt eating away at his heart for hurting her. Though he never realized just how much.

It was now December and they were 21. Howard and Maria had already told Tony that they won’t be around for Christmas, so the pair were heading to spend Christmas with Grandmother again.

“There are my two favorite young adults,” Grandmother greeted happily at the door. She brought them both in for a hug. “I’ve missed you both so much.”
“We’ve missed you too,” Y/N said.
Grandmother pulled away and grabbed Y/N’s hand. “Anthony, why don’t you go put the bags away? I need a moment to talk to my granddaughter.”
“Of course,” he responded.

Tony gathered all the bags and headed further into the house. Grandmother guided Y/N into the living room and beckoned her to sit on the couch next to the older woman.

“What would you like to talk to me about Grandmother?” Y/N wondered.
Grandmother patted Y/N’s hand that she was holding. “Have you told Anthony about your feelings for him, yet?”
“Grandmother… you know I can’t do that.”
“I’m just worried about you and your future. I won’t be here for—“
“Wait. Are you… are you dying? Please tell me that you’re not.”
“Y/N, I haven’t been doing well. My health is decreasing as well as my mind.”
“Why didn’t you tell me? I would have dropped everything to take care of you.”
“I know that, which is why I need you to tell Anthony how you feel. I do not want you to go through my death alone.”
“He’ll be by my side no matter what. I don’t understand why him knowing—“
“Because I need to know you have someone taking care of you, and that you’re taking care of someone else too. Just, please, think about it for me?”
Y/N sighed and nodded. “Okay. I’ll think about it.”
Grandmother cupped her cheek and Y/N grabbed hold of the hand. “Thank you. I love you, my child.”
“I love you too, Grandmother.” Y/N brought the older woman into a hug.
“Okay, so, I was thinking—woah. What did I miss?” Tony asked, coming to a halt in the doorway.
“We were just having a nice conversation,” Grandmother replied. “Now what were you thinking about, Anthony?”
“I was thinking that Y/N and I could go to that club we used to party at. But we could always—“
“No, that sounds fun,” Y/N interrupted with a smile. “When should we go?”
“I was thinking that we could get changed and then head out.”
“Okay.” Y/N stood up. “I’m going to go get ready then. I’ll meet you down here soon.”

Tony watched Y/N as she walked up the stairs and disappeared down the hall. Grandmother watched the young man with a smirk.

“Just tell her already,” Grandmother said.
“Huh? What?” Tony questioned, trying to face her. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Grandmother scoffed. “Anthony, I’ve known you since you were born, I know you better than you think. You love her. Why not just tell her?”
“Because she deserves a great man.”
“And what makes you think you are not that? Is it your father? Because I have told him off and I can do it again.”
Tony chuckled. “I know you can Grandmother. Y/N is just… she’s the most amazing woman I’ve ever known, besides you and Mom of course. She deserves the world.”
“And you can’t give that to her?”
He shook his head. “I can’t.”
“Anthony—“
“I need to go get ready.”

~~~

Tony hand called a car to drive them, so that they’d be able to really party. It was waiting out front while he waited by the front doors. He had dressed in his usually black dress pants, black jacket and a band tee shirt. Y/N always told him she loved that look on him, so he made sure to wear it.

For some reason, Tony was feeling nervous about going out. It confused him because the two had gone out like this hundreds of times. Perhaps it was the holidays getting to him, or what Grandmother had spoke to him about earlier. As he thought about it all, he glanced up at the stairs. Tony almost lost his breath at the sight of Y/N. She was wearing a simple dress, in the color that Tony always loved to see her in.

“You look amazing,” Tony complimented as he grabbed her hand and pulled it to his lips for a kiss.
Y/N’s face grew warm. “Thank you, Tony. You don’t look too had yourself.”

Still holding her hand, Tony led Y/N’s arm through his own and guided her out the door. In the car, the two were silent but were seated close to each other so their sides were touching.

The club was packed, but they didn’t care. Tony had already called ahead and reserved their normal table, so they didn’t have to worry about finding a place to hang around for the night. He escorted Y/N to the table before heading to the bar for drinks. The pair danced and drank until the bar kicked them out in the early hours of the morning.

Though they didn’t tell each other, they both noticed a change that night. Every time they touched each other, it was like a shock to their systems and they craved more of it. So they didn’t leave each other, always touching the whole night.

Y/N fell asleep on Tony’s shoulder on the way home. Tony wrapped an arm around her and pulled her in closer, enjoying every second of being this close to her. He didn’t deserve to have a friend like her, he didn’t he deserve to love her the way he did.

When they reached the house, Tony really didn’t want to wake her. She looked so beautiful and peaceful asleep against him. The driver opened the door for them and Tony carefully slipped his arms underneath her and carried her into the mansion. Grandmother was in the room off the entry way, reading with a simple lap on. She smirked at the sight of Tony carrying Y/N into the house.

“I take it that it was a good night,” Grandmother commented.
“Goodnight Grandmother,” Tony said, walking up the stairs.
“Goodnight Anthony.”

Tony carried Y/N to her bedroom. He laid her on the bed before pulling back the covers and getting her situated underneath them. Leaning in, he hold a kiss to her forehead, lips lingering a little longer than he normally would have. Tony breathed Y/N in, being extremely grateful for her. Then he walked out and put himself to bed.

Chapter Text

Y/N woke up first. The hangover was real. Seeing that she was still in her dress, she slowly made her way to the bathroom and changed into some sweats before going downstairs to find some medication and water. Grandmother was already down there when Y/N stumbled into the kitchen.

“Fun night?” Grandmother chuckled.
“It was,” Y/N responded, finding her needed meds.
“Did you tell him last night?”
“Grandmother… we talked about this.”
“Well, he did tuck you in last night.”
Y/N almost choked on her water. “He did?”
“He did. I think—“ Grandmother was interrupted by a knock and the ring of the door bell. “Oh. It’s a bit early for visitors. Can you get that dearie?”
“Sure.”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat upon seeing the red and blue flashing lights through the frosted glass of the door’s windows. She swallowed as her hand gripped the door knob and she opened the door. Two men in black suits were standing on the doorstep.

“Is Anthony Stark here?” One of them asked.
Y/N nodded. “Yes, I think he’s up there asleep.”
“Do you mind waking him? This is urgent.”
“Of course. Come in.” She opened the door wider, letting them in.
“Y/N?” Grandmother called, coming their way. “Who’s there?” The woman paused upon seeing the two men in the entry way. “What happened?”
“They need Tony. I’m going to go up and get him.”

She hurried up the stairs as Grandmother showed the men to the living room. Y/N had to take a deep breath before opening the door to the bedroom that Tony always used. He was passed out on his bed.

“Tony,” she whispered as she gently nudged him. He groaned and turned onto his stomach. “Tony… you need to get up.”
“Huh? Why?” He questioned, opening his eyes to look at his best friend.
“Two men are here to see you. They said it’s urgent.”
“Urgent? What could possibly be so urgent?”
“I don’t know but, Anthony, I’m worried.”

That’s what it took to get Tony out of bed. Y/N worried quite frequently, but by her tone and the use of his full name, he knew that this was something different. Tony stood and followed Y/N to the front living room. The men were seated on the couch across from Grandmother.

“Mr. Stark,” one of the men greeted.
“Mr. Stark is my father,” Tony correct. “My name’s Tony.”
“Sorry, Tony. Is there somewhere we could talk in private.”
Tony reached out and gripped Y/N’s hand. “They can hear whatever you need to tell me.”
“Okay.”
“Tony, let’s sit,” Y/N urged softly. She tugged on his arm and the two of them sat next to Grandmother, with Tony in the middle.
“Tony, last night, while your parents were flying to their destination, their plane malfunctioned.” Tony’s hand tightened around Y/N’s. “It looks like there was something wrong with the engine. Unfortunately, your parents and the crew didn’t make it out alive.”

Grandmother and Y/N gasped as Tony stood like a statue. Y/N quickly closed her eyes before the tears could start. She couldn’t let herself cry. She had to be strong for Tony. Tony let go of Y/N’s hand, stood up, and walked out the front door. The men stood up to take their own leave as Y/N was frozen to her seat.

“We are truly very sorry.”

Then men left and Y/N sat there, trying to pull herself together. Maria and Howard both treated her like a daughter. She always felt bad about how Howard treated her better than he ever treated Tony. Maria always supported their friendship, constantly trying to push them to be more. It was comforting to know that Maria would approve of them being together. A few tears fell onto her hands rested in her lap before she realized that she was crying.

“Oh, honey,” Grandmother cooed as she wrapped her arms around her.
“They’re gone,” she cried into her Grandmother. “They’re gone.”
“I know… I know…”
“Tony,” Y/N gasped, pulling away. “I need to find Tony.”

Y/N ran out the front door, towards the side of the property that they shared with the Starks. There was a hidden path way that Tony and Y/N had made when they were kids that would cut the time to get to his house in half. She burst into the house, calling for him.

“Tony! Tony!”

She began scouring the house for her friend. He wasn’t in the den, the living room, or the kitchen. Next, Y/N went to his room. She knocked and waiting a bit before trying the door. It was locked, so she tried knocking again.

“Tony,” she called through the door. “Tony, I am so sorry… please tell me what I can do to help.” No answer. “I know you’re in there, Tony, please… please, answer me.” Silence. “Just… let me know if you need anything… Grandmother and I are here for you.”

Y/N stayed at the Stark residence so that she could watch over Tony. She brought food to his door for every meal. Sometimes the food would be partially eaten when she came around again, but more often than not the food hadn’t been touched. Neither Y/N or Tony left the Stark mansion before the day fo the funeral.

Tony came out five times in all before the funeral, every time acting more like a business man than a grieving son. Grandmother watched as Y/N tried to help Tony only to be pushed away. It hurt Grandmother to see the pair like this.

The day of the funeral arrived and Tony drove himself. It was a small gathering, only for close friends and family at the graveside. Tony stood off to the side, clearly not wanting to be bothered by anyone. As soon as the service was over, he was gone and Y/N let her emotions out while Grandmother hugged her.

Y/N had pushed so much of the grief down, trying to up Tony. But it was all bubbling up to the surface. Especially since she felt like she was losing her friend as well. Grandmother held Y/N in her arms for almost two hours before they made their way back home. Grandmother watched in silence as Y/N exited the car and headed straight for the property line.

Y/N didn’t bother to knock, just walking into the Stark mansion. It was eerily quiet, especially since the head staff were on the plane as well. She went to head to Tony’s room when she noticed the den door was open. To Y/N’s surprise, she found Tony in there. He was standing at the window with a bottle of Howard’s expensive alcohol in hand.

“Tony?” She called as she hesitantly entered the room. He didn’t answer or bother to move, so she continued. “It was a beautiful service.”
“He didn’t deserve a service like that, and she deserved on better.” His voice was hollow when he spoke, not moving from his position.
“Howard loved you, Tony. He just… he had a hard time showing it.”
Tony lifted up the bottle and drank from it. “He only loved you. You know that?”
Y/N took some careful steps forward. “That’s not true.” She shook her head. “He—“
“You were the child he’d always wanted. The perfect balance of kindness, fire, and smarts. He told me that once, after telling me that I wasn’t good enough.”
“I am so sorry, Tony. If I could change things, I would. I would do anything to take this from you, you have to know that.”
“But you can’t.” Tony whipped around. He eyes were red, bloodshot. His features were a bit sunken in and it was obvious that he wasn’t taking the greatest care of himself. “Now the only person who has ever given a damn about me is dead.”
“You know that’s not true. Grandmother cares about you so much. I care about you too. That’s why I’m still here… I… I love you.”
“You love me?” Tony scoffed. “You’re kidding yourself sweetheart. We both know that you stuck around to see if you’d get something out of them being dead. Well, Y/N, you did and I’ve already had it transferred to your bank account.”
“How can you even say that Tony?” Tears were now trying to escape her eyes. “We’ve been best friends since before we could talk.”
“Because we had to.”
“We could have chosen different people along the way, but we didn’t. We always found our ways back to each other.”
“We shouldn’t have… I do better alone.”
“No you don’t. You never have.”
“I don’t need a babysitter, especially one like you.”
“What is that suppose to mean?”
“I don’t need to be followed around by someone who my father constantly compared me to. Someone he loved and cared for more than me.”
Y/N took a step back, hurt, as she let the tears fall down her cheeks. “You don’t mean that Tony.”
“I mean every damn word of it, honey. Now leave.”
“No.” She shook her head. “Not like this. I’m not leaving you in this state. I love you too much.”
“Well I don’t love you!”

The silence that came after was deafening. The only things that could be heard were the pairs breathing.

“I don’t love you,” Tony repeated. “So just leave!” Tony threw the bottle of alcohol at Y/N. She jumped as it shattered at her feet. “Get out!”

Y/N turned and she ran. She ran out of Tony’s house and straight into hers. Grandmother was sitting in the living room, trying to distract herself, when Y/N burst through the door. She immediately noticed that her granddaughter was sobbing.

“Y/N?” Grandmother questioned. “What’s wrong?”
“He… I…. He… I tried…” she stammered, not making any sense through the sobs.
“Sweetheart come here.” Grandmother urged. Y/N ran into her open arms, sobbing into her neck. “What happened?”
“He… h-h-he said these awful things. And… and I told him I loved him. And he… he… he told me that he didn’t love me…”
“What?”
“He told me that he was better off alone… and he… he…”
“He what? What else could that boy have done?”
“He… he threw a glass bottle at me.”
“What?” Grandmother pulled back to see Y/N’s face. “Are you serious?” The girl nodded. “I am so sorry he did that sweetheart.”
“I don’t ever want to see him again.”
“Oh, you don’t mean that. You both just need time.”
“No. I’m done.”

~~~

Tony watched, with tears streaming down his own face, as Y/N ran down the front steps and over to her house. He could still see and hear the sobs. He knew that he had just lost the love of his life. And he was sure that he’d never get her back again.

Chapter Text

In the three years that followed, Tony and Y/N had a few missed calls from one another. Neither of them ever called back immediately, or listened to any voicemails that were left. Grandmother’s heart ached as seeing the two separated. When she visited with either of them, she could see the pain in their eyes.

Rhodey could also see the pain in his friends eyes and hear it in their voices. He kept in touch with both of them, seeing Tony more than Y/N, but still keeping in touch. It drove him crazy to see his closest friends act this way towards each other, avoiding talking about the other and trying to actually fix things, but he knew there was nothing he could really do about it.

Tony had become the CEO and owner of Stark Industries upon his parents death. It became is life, so that he didn’t have to focus on anything in his personal life. The grieving the death of his parents and his friendship with Y/N. Though, he made it a point to visit Grandmother at least once a month. He had sold his parents mansion next door and would stay the weekend with Grandmother. Tony would silently wish that Y/N would show up for a visit, but that was never the case.

Y/N ended up switching majors, realizing that Grandmother would need her to take over the family company once she was gone. She began taking up more prominent rules in the company, with Grandmother as her mentor. Y/N fast tracked her graduation so that she would be able to really focus on the company. She a lot of time with her Grandmother during the week, at the company, that she often took most weekends to herself. She was away at her own apartment when she got the call.

“Hello?” She answered, curious as to why an unknown number would be calling her.
“Is this Y/N L/N?” A female voice, of clear authority, asked.
“Yes? Who is this?”
“This is Officer Sheryl Hope. And I’m going to inform you about a break in at your grandmother’s residence.”
“What?!” Y/N jumped up from were she was sitting and began running around, gathering her things. “Is she okay?”
“I don’t know anything but that she’s been taken to the nearest hospital.”
“Thank you for letting me know.”

Y/N hung up and rushed over to the hospital. She probably looked like a crazy person as she stumbled up to the front desk.

“My grandmother—there was a break in,” Y/N tried to explain to the nurses. “They—they said she was here.”
“Alright, honey, calm down,” a middle-aged nurse urged as he stood up. “What’s your grandmother’s name?”

She stated Grandmother’s name and the nurse quickly looked through the patients on the computer. Y/N immediately noticed the change in the nurses face from almost annoyed concentration, to a solemn look. She watched the nurse swallow before the nurse straightened up and met her gaze.

“Miss, I’m going to page your Grandmother’s doctor and lead you into one of the family waiting rooms,” he told Y/N.

Y/N’s heart dropped, knowing that it couldn’t be good news. She nodded, keeping quiet as the nurse led her to the family waiting room and left her to get the doctor. Y/N sat down, trying to remain calm. Her phone twirled in her fingers as she waited. The moment she sat down, her thoughts were split between worrying about Grandmother and calling Tony. Her breaths began to tremble as she pulled up Tony’s contact information. She paused for a long few seconds before calling.

It felt like the phone rang for a thousand years. It kept going, and going. Until…

“This is Tony. I’m currently busy at the moment, can’t answer right now. Leave a message though I probably won’t get back to you. Good luck.”

The phone beeped, signaling it was time to leave the message, but Y/N stayed silent. She was pretty sure the recording was picking up her breathing.

“Tony…” It was a plea as it slipped from her lips. Tears pricked her eyes. “I… I don’t know what happened—I don’t know what’s going on. Grandmother… she… she’s in the hospital. And… I don’t know how bad it is. But… I think… Tony… I… I need you.”

Y/N ended the call as the door began to open to the waiting room. She stood up, jittery about this whole situation. The doctor who came in was a female. Her sandy hair was pulled back into a pony tail and she had to be in the mid five feet range. The doctor’s navy scrubs were semi covered by her white lab coat. Y/N’s eyes fell onto the badge connected to the coat pocket, Dr. Grey.

“Y/N?” The doctor questioned.
“Uh,” Y/N swallowed, “yes.”
“I’m Dr. Grey, your grandmother’s doctor. Please, sit.”
“I can’t.” She shook her head. “Just… tell me.”
“Have the police come to talk to you about what happened at her home?”
“No. They haven’t.”
“Maybe we should wait until—“
“No!” Y/N quickly grabbed the doctor’s hand before she could turn away. “Please… my grandmother is all I have. I need to know what’s happened.”
Dr. Grey put her free hand over your hand that was still gripping onto her other one. “Okay. As long as you agree to sit down.” Y/N nodded and Dr. Grey helped her over to a seat, sitting down beside her. “Your grandmother came in with multiple stab wounds to her abdomen.” Y/N gasped and one of her hands flew up to her mouth. “She was immediately rushed into surgery. Given her age, her medication that she was on, the placement of the stab wounds, and the blood lost before she came in, it was a miracle she got on the table alive. She was touch and go, coding a few times. But she’s alive.”
Y/N gasped again, tears finally slipping from her eyes. “She is?”
“She’s in the ICU, in critical condition. But she’s alive. I can take you to her room and you can sit with her.”
“Please.”
Dr. Grey gave a sympathetic smile. “Okay.”

Dr. Grey led Y/N slowly through the halls. Everything seemed to be moving in slow motion, same with Y/N’s body no matter how hard she tried. Dr. Grey seemed to be really understanding about it all, which was greatly appreciated. Y/N also appreciated that her Grandmother’s room wasn’t too far from the waiting room she had been placed in.

When Dr. Grey opened the door to Grandmother’s room, Y/N’s steps faltered ever so slightly. Grandmother was laying in that hospital bed, but it almost didn’t look like her at all. Her skin color was off, there were tubes and wires everywhere. Including one breathing for her. Monitors stood beside her on the right side of the bed, rhythmically beeping.

“There’s a chair in the corner that you can pull up next to the bed,” Dr. Grey said, pointing it out. “The bathroom is just there that door right there. Nurses, as well as me and some residents, will be in and out frequently. The police as well will probably stop by to talk to you about what happened.”
Y/N nodded. “Yeah, okay,” she breathed out. “Thank you, Dr. Grey.”
“Of course. Please let any of us know if you need anything.”

Dr. Grey gave Y/N one last smile before leaving her to venture into the room alone. Y/N grabbed the chair and pulled it to her Grandmother’s left side, hoping to not get in the way of anyone needing the monitors. Her hand shook slightly as she reached out for Grandmother’s hand. It was colder to the touch than usual. She sat there, taking in Grandmother’s condition, for a while before getting out her phone once again. Tony had yet to call back. That didn’t stop Y/N from calling again, needing someone with her. Someone who loved Grandmother as much as she did.

“This is Tony. I’m currently busy at the moment, can’t answer right now. Leave a message, though I probably won’t get back to you. Good luck.”
“Tony… I… Grandmother’s still alive,” she spoke into the phone. “But… it’s still critical. And I… I’m all alone here. I know we’ve been doing this to each other for a while now, avoiding and ignoring, but… Tony… I need you to answer. I don’t know if I can do this, especially if… just, please, answer.”

~~~

Tony was laying in his hotel room, the woman that he had just had sex with passed out in the sheets beside him. But Tony couldn’t sleep. There was just something off, and he was trying to pin point what. It wasn’t that his body was struggling to get used to the time change (as he was currently in Italy on a work trip). It wasn’t that he was worried about the work trip at all, everything was going to go as planned. It wasn’t the woman currently in his bed that he had picked up at the restaurant his meeting was held at. So what was it?

The CEO sighed as he reached over for his phone. He immediately noticed two missed called and two voicemails from Y/N. His fingers hovered over them, debating on pressing them. She had called before, but never this close together. So maybe something was up? Maybe that was the feeling that was keeping Tony up? But… if it was truly important, Y/N would also text, right?

As Tony sat there and thought about what he should do, the woman to his right began to move. He quickly cleared his notifications, made sure his phone was on silent, and set his phone on the dresser. The woman blinked up at Tony as she moved to face him.

“You’re still awake?” She whispered. She moved over, slowly laying on top of him. “Do you need some help sleeping?”

Instead of verbally answering, Tony leaned in, pressing his lips to hers.

~~~

The police had came in and explained to Y/N what they were sure that happened. A robber had noticed that Grandmother was the only one living at the house and broke in. The robber had failed to do his research and didn’t know that there was good security systems in place that would immediately call the police. So he tried to kill Grandmother before he went after any of the valuables. He was stuffing another load into his car when the police pulled up. So they had caught the man who did this. It still didn’t make Y/N feel better.

Dr. Grey, residents, and nurses were in and out of the room constantly for the next two days. They had a roll away bed brought in so that Y/N didn’t have to leave Grandmother’s side. There had been no changes so far, for worse or better. Though Dr. Grey said that sometimes no change is good. Y/N wanted to believe that, so much.

She had her phone on her at all times, the volume up. Just in case Tony would call. Y/N knew that she could call Rhodey and he would drop everything, probably even kick some sense into Tony. But Y/N wished that Tony would come to some sense on his own. It was probably stupid, but Tony and Y/N both were.

Y/N was absentmindedly twirling her phone around when the monitor’s Grandmother was connected to began going haywire. She jumped up and frantically pressed the nurses button. They rushed in with Dr. Grey not far behind. They were all talking loudly and over each other.

“What’s happening?” Y/N asked, trying not to panic. “Dr. Grey?”
“Somebody get her out of here!” Dr. Grey requested as she began doing compressions.

One of the nurses hurried up to Y/N and began leading her out of the room. Y/N tried to resist, though was too focused on looking at what was happening to her grandmother to put up an actual fight.

“Miss, please stay out here,” the nurse urged as she went back into the room and shut the door behind her.

Y/N stood out in the hall, able to hear what was going on inside the room still. Tears fell down her cheeks though she didn’t even notice. She was too busy listening to them try to bring Grandmother back. Her eyes pressed closed as she heard Dr. Grey call the time of death.

~~~

“This is Tony. I’m currently busy at the moment, can’t answer right now. Leave a message, though I probably won’t get back to you. Good luck.”
“Tony,” Y/N’s voice was horse and completely broken. “Grandmother died… she’s gone… and I needed you there will me… the funeral will be in four days… I hope you make it. She would have wanted you to… I want you to.”

Chapter Text

The days getting to the funeral was all a blur. There were really no other family members, so it was Y/N making all the decisions herself. She stopped reaching out to Tony, since it was clear he wasn’t going to answer. Rhodey ended up calling after hearing about Grandmother and dropping everything to come and be with Y/N. He kept trying, and failing, to get a hold of Tony, making him angrier and angrier at his friend.

Rhodey refused to leave Y/N’s side as she really had no one to help her get through this rough time. He watched as she allowed people to give her condolences and she shed a few tears, but he could tell that Y/N was holding much of her feelings back. As people moved through the line at the open casket viewing before the service, Rhodey noticed that Y/N seemed to be looking for someone after each person that talked to her. He would sigh, knowing she was looking for Tony, and check his phone. Only to see nothing.

Y/N held strong as she stood in front of the many people attending Grandmother’s service and spoke about her. Rhodey could still notice how Y/N was checking the crowd for Tony. After the funeral, Rhodey stood by Y/N’s side as they watched Grandmother’s casket go down into the ground and, slowly, people began leaving and Y/N and Rhodey were the only ones left.

“He didn’t come,” she whispered, her voice and heart clearly broken. Y/N stared at the spot where her Grandmother’s casket once stood above ground, but she wasn’t really seeing the spot. “I thought…. At least for her… but I guess I was wrong…”
“Tony’s stupid,” Rhodey said. “He should have be here and I’m sorry that he’s not.”
“I guess he was right…”
“About what?”
“He told me, that last time we were with each other, that he didn’t love me.”
“Y/N—“
“Since then, in the back of my mind, I had believed that he was just over reacting… I was wrong.”
“Y/N,” Rhodey stood in front of the woman and gripped her shoulders gently. “You were—still are—the person he loves the most.”
Y/N stepped back out of Rhodey’s hold. “Then why isn’t he here?” Tears streaked down her face. Rhodey sighed as looked away. “I called and I called and in my greatest hour of need, Tony still wasn’t here! I know that we’ve both been stupid and ridiculously stubborn since his parents died, but I always thought he would still be there for me in times like this. And look!” She motioned around the area. “Tony’s not here! I’m….I’m all alone now.”
Rhodey moved over to Y/N and forced her into a hug. She basically collapsed into his arms, sobbing. “I’m right here. You won’t ever be alone.”
“Why do I still love him after what happened?” Rhodey wanted to be taken back my Y/N’s admission as she cried into his shoulder, but he couldn’t. He had known all along. “Why can’t I just get over him?”

Rhodey didn’t have an answer for Y/N. He stayed silent as he held her until she was just sniffling. Eventually, he got her home and tucked into bed, where she quickly fell asleep.

~~~

Tony feeling that something was wrong kept getting worse, especially with Rhodey’s growing phone calls and voice messages. But he didn’t even bother to answer them as he felt he was too busy at work and picking up women at bars. Tony was still in Italy and currently had just finished up having sex with a new girl he had picked up at a party he went to. She was sleeping in bed while Tony was sitting out on the hotel room balcony, his phone flipping in his hand.

He was trying to figure out what the feeling meant. It had almost been a week since it started, and it was driving him crazy that it was getting worse. Tony thought back to those voicemails that Y/N had left, too close together. He pulled them up on his phone, reminding him that Rhodey had also left him plenty of messages. He took a deep breath before pressing the first message and putting his phone up to his ear.

“Tony…” Tony inhaled sharply at the way Y/N had said his name. “I… I don’t know what happened—I don’t know what’s going on. Grandmother… she… she’s in the hospital. And… I don’t know how bad it is. But… I think… Tony… I… I need you.”
“No,” he gasped. Before he could even press anything, the next message began playing.
“Tony… I… Grandmother’s still alive. But… it’s still critical. And I… I’m all alone here. I know we’ve been doing this to each other for a while now, avoiding and ignoring, but… Tony… I need you to answer. I don’t know if I can do this, especially if… just, please, answer.”

Then the next one played, each message weighing Tony down with more and more guilt.

“Tony,” Y/N’s voice was horse and completely broken. Tony immediately knew what had happened. “Grandmother died… she’s gone… and I needed you there will me… the funeral will be in four days… I hope you make it. She would have wanted you to… I want you to.”

Tony whipped his phone away from his ear to check the date. His heart shattering in his chest once he realized that he had royally screwed up. He jumped up from his position on the balcony and rushed into the room. He headed straight for the door, not even bothering to grab any of his possessions. The woman he was with called out for him just before the door slammed shut behind him.

Tony ran out into the street and hailed a taxi. As the taxi took him to the airport, he called his personal pilot to get everything set up. He wanted them heading back to America in under 30 minutes. Tony was still in the taxi when he pressed on Rhodey’s final message. He knew it would be the worse one from his friend.

“Look, I don’t know what the hell is going on that you can’t answer my calls or bother to show up for Grandmother’s funeral. I don’t know if I’ve ever been more disappointed in you, Tony. She needed you today. Hell! She needed you for this whole process! Y/N’s all alone in this. I’ve been trying to be there for her but I’m not you, Tony. Grandmother is dead and Y/N’s drowning over here.” Rhodey sighed as he paused in his message. “Honestly, I don’t even care if you show up to help her at this point, it probably won’t make a difference. But I wanted you to know that you screwed up worse than before, Tony. Much worse.”

Tony looked up at the taxi’s ceiling as his eyes filled with tears. Grandmother was gone, and he hadn’t been there for her or Y/N. Rhodey was right, this was much worse than what he had done previously and there was probably no way he could fix it. But it was going to try, because it was Y/N and she was still the person he loved the most.

~~~

Rhodey had to leave the following morning, though he really wished he could stay. Y/N promised that she would be fine and that she’d reach out if she needed anything. She already had someone taking care of the business for her so that she could take a week or two off to grieve and get Grandmother’s things in order.

For that first day after Rhodey left, Y/N spent most of it sleeping and watching television. She couldn’t get herself motivated to do anything else. She couldn’t even move around the house without being reminded of Grandmother and start crying.

It was getting late into the night when someone began pounding on the front door. Y/N woke up from where was she laying on the couch, half asleep and confused at who could be at the door. With a blanket wrapped around her, she shuffled towards the front door where someone was still incessantly banging on it. She unlocked the door and then opened it to barely reveal herself. She froze at the sight in front of her.

A disheveled Tony stood on the porch. His hair sticking out in many directions. His eyes red and rimmed with purple. His clothes were wrinkled and not put together like Tony normally was. Tony wasn’t even wearing any shoes. He was panting as he finally looked at Y/N.

“Y/N, I am so sorry,” he began quickly. “I should have been here. I’m so sorry I wasn’t. Just, let me explain or let me beg for your forgiveness or something. I just… I am so sorry.”

Y/N stared blankly at Tony. Not knowing how to answer him or even believe that he was standing there on her doorstep.

“Y/N…” He reached out and she flinched away. “Can I come in and we can talk about this?”

Again, Y/N didn’t respond. She stared a him for a few more, long seconds before shutting the door in Tony’s face and locking it.

Chapter Text

Previously on Meant To Be…

It was getting late into the night when someone began pounding on the front door. Y/N woke up from where was she laying on the couch, half asleep and confused at who could be at the door. With a blanket wrapped around her, she shuffled towards the front door where someone was still incessantly banging on it. She unlocked the door and then opened it to barely reveal herself. She froze at the sight in front of her.

A disheveled Tony stood on the porch. His hair sticking out in many directions. His eyes red and rimmed with purple. His clothes were wrinkled and not put together like Tony normally was. Tony wasn’t even wearing any shoes. He was panting as he finally looked at Y/N.

“Y/N, I am so sorry,” he began quickly. “I should have been here. I’m so sorry I wasn’t. Just, let me explain or let me beg for your forgiveness or something. I just… I am so sorry.”

Y/N stared blankly at Tony. Not knowing how to answer him or even believe that he was standing there on her doorstep.

“Y/N…” He reached out and she flinched away. “Can I come in and we can talk about this?”

Again, Y/N didn’t respond. She stared a him for a few more, long seconds before shutting the door in Tony’s face and locking it.

“Y/N!” Tony called through the door. “Please, just let me in!”

Y/N let out a shaky breath, tears pooling in her eyes, as she slid down the door. Her knees came up to her chest and her head came onto her knees before she began crying. After such a long emotional day, she didn’t know she had anymore tears left in her.

“Y/N!” Tony continued. “I’m so very sorry… I loved Grandmother too. She was my family as well. And I should have been here for her. For both of you… please just let me in and let he know how I can begin fixing this…”

Thunder sounded as rain started to pour. It so perfectly fit into any type of romantic movie, the scene that the two were playing out. Any other time, Y/N and Tony might have thought it funny. But not this time, not when it was their hearts on the line.

Tony’s head rested on the door in front of him and he closed his eyes briefly. He couldn’t tell if he had begun to cry or if the raindrops were hitting him just right.

“I’m not leaving until you let me in,” he told Y/N. He moved his head so that his ear was pressed up against the door, allowing him to faintly hear her sobs through the sound of the rain. “I’ll be right out here until you’re ready to talk about this.” He turned and slid his back against the door. “I’m right here… I’m right here.”

~~~

Neither Y/N or Tony remember falling asleep. They were both still leaned back into the door, mirroring each other. Y/N was up first. She could sense that Tony was still on the other side of the door without even moving. The rain had stopped and Y/N could tell it was now morning. Tony had vowed not to leave until she let him in, and he was stubborn enough to go through with it. The thing was, how soon would she give in to letting him in?

She sat there, pondering what to do until she heard Tony groan from the other side of the door. Y/N took a deep breath before pushing herself to stand up. Her hand reached out shakily to grasped the lock. Tony’s ears picked up on the sound of the lock slowly turning and he quickly jumped up.

The door opened slowly, coming to a stop just enough to reveal part of Y/N. She was hiding most of her body behind the door, but Tony couldn’t help but stare at her face. It was red and blotchy. Clear evidence of tiredness and grief on her face. Y/N felt the same why about Tony, also adding in the fact that he had been outside in the rain all night. Tony’s left hand clenched tightly as he resisted the urge to reach out and pull Y/N into his arms.

“I needed you…” Y/N rasped, sounding completely broken.
“I know,” Tony responded, heavily disappointed in himself.
“She was… After your parents died, she was all I had left. I didn’t even have you anymore.” Tony opened his mouth to say something, but Y/N quickly continued with tears in her eyes once again. “Grandmother was in surgery… dying… and the only person I wanted more than her was you. And you weren’t there…. I even called more than I have since your parents funeral, and I left messages…. And still. You weren’t here. Rhodey was here for as long as he could be, but he didn’t know Grandmother like you did. He isn’t you Tony.”
“Y/N…” Tony took a timid step forward, making sure not to overstep her much warranted space. “I screwed up. Big time… I should have never acted that way towards you when my parents died. Especially since you hadn’t left my side, hadn’t stopped taking care of me. And I should have listened to that first voicemail and been by your side when Grandmother was in the hospital. I should have been by your side through the planning and the funeral… but I wasn’t…. And I have to live with that regret for the rest of my life.”

Silence fell over the two as they simply stared at each other, processing everything.

“I can’t forgive you, Tony,” Y/N whispered, emotion still thick in her throat. “Not immediately at least… you hurt me.”
“I know,” Tony admitted. “And I will try to fix that. Can you just…” He stepped closer. “Just let me in, and we can try to fix things, please.”
“Tony…” She shook her head slightly. “I don’t know if I can let you in. I’m sorry… I just don’t think I’m ready for that yet.”
“Y/N.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Y/N.”

But it was too late. She shut the door on him once again.

~~~

Tony eventually got himself to the nearest hotel, with his assistant, Pepper, bringing him some clothes and other things since he no longer owned the house next to Grandmother’s. He cleaned up once his things had been brought to him and went to the grocery store. It had been far too long since he had eaten with Y/N, snacked with her, he could only hope that she still enjoyed the same things as before. He and Pepper filled up two shopping carts with all shorts of things since Tony had begun to get nervous about what to bring Y/N.

Tony brought a large load up to the front porch as Pepper tried to gather most of the rest. With bags weighing down his hands and arms, Tony struggled to knock on the door but eventually was able to make a knocking sound.

Y/N had taken the day easy, trying to distract herself from the grief and Tony showing up. She took a long bath before trying to distract herself with a book and then trying with some television. She was about to fall asleep curled up on the couch when she heard a struggled knock at the door. With furrowed brows, Y/N got up and answered it.

“Tony?” Y/N questioned upon seeing him again on the doorstep. “What are you doing? Why do you have all those shopping bags?”
“I thought you might need some snacks and then we got to the grocery store and I didn’t know what you would want so I kinda freaked out.”
“We?”
“Me and my assistant Pepper.”

He motioned back to where Pepper was getting more bags from the car. Y/N looked over Tony’s shoulder and immediately noticed how gorgeous his assistant was, an old, familiar jealousy filling her gut.

“Tony, you didn’t have to do this,” Y/N sighed.
“I know, I wanted to,” he responded. “Now, may we come in and help you put these groceries away? I promise not to stay long.”
Y/N thought for a moment before nodding. “Fine.”

She opened the door wider, allowing Tony to enter. Y/N watched, hand still on the door, as Tony hurried towards the kitchen. Y/N heard Pepper struggling up the steps with more grocery bags. Y/N quickly went to help Pepper.

“Thank you,” Pepper smiled at Y/N.
“Does he make you do a lot of things like this?” Y/N asked.
“I do anything and everything Mr. Stark requires.”
“How long have you been working for him?”
“2 and a half years. I am very glad to finally meet you, Y/N. He had mentioned you and your Grandmother quite a lot.”
“Oh really?” The women stepped into the house and Y/N closed the front door with her hip. “Interesting.”

Pepper followed Y/N into the kitchen, where Tony was hard at work putting the items he had bought away.

“This is all too much, Tony,” Y/N said.
“Actually,” Tony reached into the fridge, pulled an item of food out and sniffed it. His nose scrunched up in disgust before he tossed the item into the trash. “I think that it’s not enough. What have you been surviving off of?”
“Neighbors and co-workers have brought me meals,” Y/N shrugged. “I was going to go grocery shopping when I was ready.”
“Well, now you don’t have to. Pepper, is there anything else out in the car?”
“No, Mr. Stark,” Pepper replied. “Y/N helped me bring the rest in.”
“You did not need to do that, Y/N. Pepper could have handled it.”
“Well, I didn’t see the need for that,” Y/N responded. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go work on a few things.” She turned to Pepper. “It was so nice to meet you.”
“You as well,” Pepper responded.

Y/N turned and began heading towards Grandmother’s office. Tony chased after her.

“Y/N! Wait!” He called.
She paused and turned back slightly. “Yes?”
“Can I take you out to dinner tonight?”
“No.” Y/N’s answer was quick and sharp, making Tony wince.
“I promise—“
“You promised to not stay long. Please keep it.”

Y/N then continued onto the office and shut the door, separating herself from Tony. Tony ran a hand down his face as he sighed. He honestly didn’t know what he could possibly do to make things right, but he wasn’t planning on giving anytime soon. No matter how long it took.

Chapter Text

Even though Y/N knew that there wouldn’t be a headstone in place yet, she couldn’t get herself not to go and visit the cemetery the next day. She ate breakfast before swinging by the store and buying a bouquet of flowers. Y/N parked the car and open the door to get out when she froze. Over where Grandmother was laid to rest, was Tony. He had his own bouquet in hand and seemed to be talking to himself. Y/N glanced around, checking to see if anyone was around, before silently leaving the car and heading towards Tony. She stopped, hiding behind a tree not too far from Tony.

“—made lots of mistakes,” she heard Tony say. “I know that. I also know that you know since you had to deal with the aftermath of one of my biggest ones. Which, I’m sorry about you having to listen to the both of us probably bitch and whine about each other. But now… Now I…” Tony sighed as he ran his free hand down his face. “Now I really messed up. I messed things up with you… I didn’t even get to say goodbye…. And I messed things up with Y/N… I should have been there, for the both of you…. I failed the two most important people in my life… Grandmother… how to do I fix this?”

Y/N stayed behind the tree as Tony didn’t say anymore, like he was waiting for an actual answer from Grandmother. The only sound in response was the wind rustling the trees and grave decorations. She could hear Tony sigh before his feet began to carrying him away from the graveside. Y/N peeked around the tree and watched as Tony got into his car and drove away.

Y/N let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding as she slid down the tree. She didn’t really know what to think about all this, Tony trying. She knew that when he put his mind to something, he would follow through with it. But this was different. This was trying to mend a broken friendship…. A seemingly broken one sided love.

After awhile, Y/N finally got up and walked over to the small grave marker. She stood there, hands stuffed in her coat pockets as she rocked back and forth on her heels.

“I… uh… gosh… why is this so hard?” Y/N grumbled. “I just… I’m just going to say it… I love Tony. I still love him… he’s been back in my life for all of like 48 hours and all I want to do is run into his arms. Why? How? He… he hurt me so bad. And he wasn’t even there for us when we needed him the most… I… I sat next to you while you laid in that hospital bed and I think I thought more about wishing he was there than I did about anything else… and I feel really guilty about it because you were dying. But… but he just consumes me. My every thought, action, sense. I… I don’t know what to do, Grandmother… help me.”

Y/N then stopped talking, almost hoping and praying that Grandmother would suddenly appear with all the answers to her problems. She stood there, embracing the silence, for almost an hour before she headed back home.

When she arrived home, Y/N immediately noticed Tony’s car on the drive way. She sighed as she got out of the car and headed towards the front steps. Tony was sitting at the top of the stairs, fiddling with his phone.

“What are you doing here Tony?” Y/N asked, not bothering to stop to talk to Tony. She just headed straight for the door.
“I came by to check in,” he replied as he quickly stood up, “but you weren’t home.”
“I had somewhere to be.” Y/N shrugged as she unlocked the front door and opened it. “You’ve checked in, I’m alive.” She stood inside, prepared to shut the door in Tony’s face. “You can go now.”
“Y/N,” Tony breathed out, moving to stop her from shutting the door on him. “I can tell you’re hurting. You need to talk, let it out. I will listen. I want to listen and be there for you.”
“Tony… I… I already told you, it’s not going to be easy for me to forgive you.”
“You don’t need to forgive me in order for me to be there for you.”
“Why are you really doing this Tony?”
That questioned caught Tony slightly off guard. “I—well, I—I feel bad.”
“You feel bad?” Y/N’s brows furrowed. “So you’re just being nice because you feel bad.”
“No! Well, yes! Of course I feel bad! About a lot of things. But of course I’m not just doing all of this because I feel bad. I feel another things as well.”
“Okay…”
“What I mean is that—“ He cut himself off, shaking his head as he ran a hand down his face. “This is not coming out great.”
“No. It’s not. And, honestly Tony, I’m not sure I want to hear what you have to say.”
“Y/N—“
“Not yet anyway. I… I need some time and maybe a little space. I need to process what’s happened with Grandmother and to get back into the swing of my life again. And I‘m sure that you have a life you need to get back to.”
“Y/N, I’m not leaving any time soon. You are alone.”
“How could you possibly know that? You haven’t been around for years. I have friends and people that care.”
“Then where are they? Why aren’t they here supporting you? You’re the one who called me, you know? You said you needed me.”
“If you didn’t want to be here, why the hell did you come?”
“Of course I wanted to me here! Grandmother just died, I should have been here for her.”
“For her? What about for me? Or was everything you said the other night, a total lie?”
“I meant every word. I still do. I screwed up, big time and that’s why I’m not leaving. Even if you keep pushing me away, I will not leave because we need each other. You know that too. Grandmother told me how miserable you were during our time apart. I bet she also told you the same thing about me. That is why I will not stop until we are at least semi-friends again.”
“It still sounds like you’re doing this for Grandmother. Not either of us.”
“I’m doing it for both of us, and Grandmother.”
“I… I have work to do. I need to get to it.” Y/N began shutting the door, trying to end this.
Tony’s hand stopped the door. “Don’t shut me out, Y/N… please.”

She stayed silent as she pushed the door shut and locked it. She could hear Tony on the other side still.

“Damn it!” He exclaimed as he kicked the door. “Always screwing things up, Stark. Always.”

Y/N knew that she was being difficult. But after all the crap Tony had put her through, she was’t about to let him back into her life easily.

~~~

Tony spent the rest of the day trying to figure out how he was going to gain Y/N’s trust again. Y/N spent the rest of the day trying to avoid thinking about Tony by putting herself to work. Luckily, with her job, she could work from home. She knew that she didn’t have to, they had got it covered for her to take time off, but she needed something to do. She couldn’t just sit here and fail to not think about Tony.

Y/N ended up falling asleep on the couch in Grandmother’s office later that night. She was curled up in a ball on the couch when Tony broke into the house. Well, it technically wasn’t breaking in since he remembered that Grandmother had given him a key to the house once. So he quietly slipped into the house and made his way to the kitchen. He found a vase under the sink and put the small bouquet of flowers that he had bought in it. He made sure there was enough water and placed the vase in the center of the kitchen island.

Tony pulled the small note out of his pocket and placed it against the vase. He looked around the kitchen, realizing that there were random lights on and that he couldn’t hear Y/N around. He began walking around, turning off lights as he went. When he reached Grandmother’s office, Tony reached into the room to find the light switch. Y/N’s curled up figure on the couch caught his eye. He paused, listening for her breaths to make sure she was fast asleep.

When he was confident that Y/N was asleep, he snuck further into the room and grabbed the throw blanket that was laid on top of one of the office chairs. He snuck over to the couch and slowly laid the blanket on top of Y/N. Tony stood there for a few moments, just taking in the sleeping woman.

“I’m staying, I’m fighting, because of you, Y/N/N,” Tony whispered. “I love you.”

He leaned down and barely brushed his lips against her head before heading towards the door, not forgetting to turn off the light. He glanced back at Y/N, a look of longing in his brown eyes, then he left the house with a silent promise to be back the next day.

Chapter Text

Y/N didn’t want to wake. The dream she was having was just that, a dream but it was wonderful. Tony had told her that he loved her, making her overjoyed. But waking up reminded her that it was only a dream and her heart cracked at the realization that he would never say that in real life.

Sitting up, Y/N rubbed her eyes, trying to get the sleep from them. A blanket slipped from where part of it lay over her chest into her lap. She looked down at it with furrowed brows. When had she grabbed a blanket? Y/N racked her mind for any possible answer. Eventually, she shrugged and decided that she probably had been too tired to even remember getting the blanket.

Y/N’s stomach growled slightly and she decided to head for the kitchen. When she got there, she headed straight for fridge. Opening it up, Y/N grabbed a few things that looked appetizing. She placed them on the island in front of the fridge. Y/N then went and grabbed a cup, filling it up with some water. She turned as she slowly brought the cup to her lips. But it never made it to her lips because she paused when she noticed a vase in the center of the island with a small bouquet of her favorite flowers. Her eyes trailed down from the top of the flowers to the bottom of the vase, freezing at the sight of a small note leaning against the vase.

Taking a deep breath, Y/N carefully walked over and took the note into her hand. She was a little worried about who could have left her flowers and a note, cause that meant they were in her house without her knowing. But, Y/N knew that there was really only one person who would do something like this. She set her cup on the counter before opening the note.

Y/N - I hope that the flowers I bought are still your favorite. It actually kind of hurts to think that I may get your favorite flowers wrong. Such a simple thing. But I used to know you better than you know yourself. I am sorry. For everything. I will never not stop apologizing. Even if you ever forgive me. I will not stop until we are friends again, no matter how long it takes. I wanted to also let you know that I’ll be away for awhile, dealing with Stark Industries shit. But I will be checking in. I promise. And I will try not to be gone long. I can only hope you don’t shut me out. Yours, A.E.S.

Y/N’s heart clenched at the thought of Tony not being around, even though her brain was trying to convince her that this was a good thing. She was torn. Y/N then began to realize that Tony was in her house last night. Maybe that’s how the blanket got on her? Her attention was quickly brought away from the flowers, the note, and her torn emotions, by her buzzing phone in her pocket. She took it out and saw it was Tony’s number. Y/N answered is and put the phone to her ear.

“Y/N? Are you there?” Tony questioned when Y/N didn’t start the conversation first even though he could tell she answered the call.
“I’m here,” she answered.
“Good,” he breathed out.
“Uh, thank you for the flowers.”
“So, you saw them.”
“Yeah. They’re pretty.”
“I’m glad you think so. I’m sorry that I left them creepily. I wanted to give you something before I had to go. You understand, when the company calls, you’ve gotta go.”
“Yeah, I do… Tony?”
“Yes?”
“Did you… did you leave a blanket on me last night?”
Tony chuckled nervously. “Yes, I did.”
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
“Tony!” Pepper’s voice shouted on his end of the line. “You were needed in the meeting five minutes ago!”
“I’m coming Pep! Hold on!” Tony called back. “I’m sorry. I’ve got to go. But… call me if you need anything, okay?”
“Okay… and Tony?”
“Yes?”
“You got the flowers right.”

Y/N hung up before Tony could respond. She leaned back against the counter as she thought about Tony in her house. Leaving flowers and a note. Making sure she was comfortable on the couch. Telling her…. wait. Was Tony telling Y/N that he loved her a dream, or was it reality? It had to be a dream, right? He couldn’t possibly feel that way. There was no way he was has hopelessly in love with her as she was with him. Was there?

~~~

Tony smiled through every meeting he was forced into that day. He felt like he had a few big wins. He had gotten Y/N to answer his call and he had gotten the flowers correct. It gave him some hope that he could possibly save his friendship with Y/N. And maybe, just maybe, their friendship could turn into something more.

“Tony! Tony!” Pepper called. She was seated across from the man as he was absentmindedly staring off and smiling while he rocked back and forth in his desk chair. Pepper hit the desk. “Tony!”
Tony jumped slightly, finally focusing on his assistance sitting on the other side of his desk. “Sorry, what?”
“Have you even been listening all day?”
“Of course I have.”
“Okay, so what did you agree to at our two o’clock meeting?”
“Ummm…. Upgrading our processing systems?”
Pepper rolled her eyes and shook her head. “You’re unbelievable. You agreed to hosting a gala.”
“And what’s the problem with that? I host parties all the time.”
“You promised that you could get The L/N Company to partner with you on the gala. You agreed that Y/N’s company could help sponsor it. Then you preceded to tell the group that you were going to try and merge the two companies.”
“What? How could you let me say that?”
“Let you? You go ahead and start rambling faster and louder than anyone else. You had promised and said things faster than my brain could comprehend to stop you.”
Tony closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. “I’m so screwed.”
“Yes you are.” Pepper stood up and gathered a few things off of Tony’s desk. “I’m going to leave you to think about how you’re going to deal with this, especially before it gets out to Y/N.”
“How much time do we have?”
“The board wants to announce the gala next week and is hoping to announce this apparent merge of the companies at the gala. Which is scheduled to happen at the end of the month.”
“So I have really until the end of this month to fix this mess, right?”
“Tony. You need to fix this as soon as possible.”
“I know, I know. Thanks Pepper.”

Pepper quickly took her leave. Tony groaned as he ran his hands down his face and leaned forward so his elbows were resting the top of his knees. He was making baby steps with Y/N. Extremely small baby steps and now he could have completely ruined it.

~~~

After Y/N’s call with Tony, she decided that she was going to get some work done. She showered and readied herself for the day before finding her way back to Grandmother’s office. She logged into the computer there and quickly got to work. She hadn’t even realized that she worked passed lunch and while into the afternoon until her phone began buzzing. It was Tony, again.

“Hello, Tony,” Y/N answered the phone.
“Wow, two answers in one day,” Tony responded. “It must be my lucky day.”
“Don’t get used to it. Did you need something Tony, or were you just calling to test your luck?”
“I actually called to talk to you about something.”
“Yes?”
“Well I… I was in a meeting earlier and uh, well…”
“Tony, get to the point.”
“I’m going to be back in town in two days. Can I take you out to dinner?”
“Seriously? That’s what you needed?”
“Well, n—yes! It’s exactly what I needed. I’m trying here Y/N. Can we just meet? Take about some things.”
Y/N thought about it for a second before sighing. “Fine.”
Tony tried not to sound too excited, smile growing wide. “Really?”
“Don’t push it, Stark.”
“I’ll pick you up at 8 in two days.”
“You better be on time. Not a minute late.”
“I would never.”
“See you then, Tony.”
“I’ll be in touch.”

Chapter Text

Y/N had seen Tony’s car pull up in the drive way an hour and a half before he had promised that he’d pick her up. She closed the blinds so that him being out there wouldn’t effect her continuously growing bundle of nerves. Her palms were growing increasingly clammy as she tried to find an appropriate outfit for tonight. Was is super casual? Semi-Casual? Semi-formal? Formal? And why was she even this worried? It’s not like Tony was taking her out on a date.

This wasn’t a date, right? Was this Tony’s way to trick Y/N into going on a date with him? He wouldn’t do that while he was trying to earn her trust back, right? She shook her head slightly, trying to clear it since she felt like she was over thinking it.

Tony wasn’t doing much better outside. He had sat in his car for a little bit, nervously tapping on the steering wheel. When that wasn’t helping his nerves, Tony got out of the car and began pacing. This was about to be the longest period of time he has spent with Y/N in years. Almost every interaction since he came back into her life, he had messed up. Tony believed he was bound to do it again, especially because he needed to talk about the mistakes he had made at his company meetings.

“It’s no big deal,” he mumbled to himself as he paced. “Just tell her that you promised a gala and a potential company merge. Just… tell her that you’re a giant screw up and that you’ll understand if she will never want to see you again. Yeah. That’s it. Sounds— Ah!”

Tony, having tripped on his own two feet, fell onto the driveway. He caught himself by his hands before he face planted. He stayed there for a few moments, catching his breath, before he adjusted so that he was sitting down. Tony glanced at himself, inspecting any damage.

“Shit,” he exclaimed.

His hands were roughed up, spots of blood coming through the rough skin. There was dirt on one of his knees and the other one was torn and bleeding slightly.

“That’s just great,” he muttered. “Exactly what I needed.”

Y/N had yet to get ready, unable to find an outfit she liked. She realized that she just needed five minutes away from her closet. Slipping her robe on, Y/N headed towards the front of the house. She remembered that she had seen Tony outside and decided to check on him. Peering from around the curtain, Y/N watched as Tony paced and then tripped over his own feet. She didn’t even try to stop the laugh that came out.

Y/N bit her bottom lip slightly as she focused back on Tony. He was sitting on the ground with his head in his hands, looking down. It was pulling at her heart strings. Before her brain could catch up with her heart, Y/N was walking out of the house and towards Tony. The closer she got, the more she could see that him tripping had a few ramifications. He was still holding his head in his hands when she reached him.

“Are you okay, Tony?” She asked. His head snapped up, surprised that Y/N was standing in front of him. “I saw you trip.”
“You did?” Tony pushed himself up.
“Yeah,” she giggled slightly. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah! Perfectly fine.” He stuffed his hands into his pant pockets, trying to hide them. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
“Well, you have a whole in your pant leg and your knee is bleeding slightly. You also failed to hide your hands quick enough.”
“I’ll be fine. It’s fine. Won’t stop me from going to dinner.”
“Tony Stark is willing to go to dinner with a whole in his pants?” Y/N arched a brow at him. He tried to show a face of resolve instead of sheepishly shrink away like he wanted to. “Come inside and I’ll help you get cleaned up. Can’t have my date looking like that.” She began heading towards the house.
Tony followed after Y/N, smirking. “Date, huh?”
“I did not mean it like that.”
“Sure you didn’t."
Y/N held the door open as Tony came inside. “Head to the bathroom. I’m going to grab the first aid kit.”

Tony nodded and quickly obeyed. Y/N went into the kitchen and pulled out the first aid kit before heading to the room that Tony usually stayed in. She went into the closet and found two pairs of pants in there. She took them and headed to the bathroom where she knew Tony would be. He was sitting on the closed toilet, clearly nervously waiting.

“I found some pants you could try in your old closet,” Y/N said, setting them on the vanity before setting the kit down and looking through it.
“Thanks,” he responded.
“I’ll take care of your hands before I do your knee.”

Tony nodded as he watched Y/N take some of the first aid kit supplies and kneel in front of him. He bit down a shiver that wanted to run down his spine at the way Y/N gently took his hand. Tony allowed her the quiet working environment and he simply focused on the fact that she was so close to him. This had to be a good sign, right?

After Y/N had cleaned up Tony’s hands, she knew that she needed to clean up his knee. She could ask him to take his pants off, but the comments and the thought of seeing Tony in his underwear wasn’t doing any good.

“Do you mind if I cut off the pant leg?” Y/N asked, reaching for the scissors in the first aid kit.
“The pants are done for anyway,” Tony answered, “go right ahead.”

Y/N cut off the pant and got to work on Tony’s knee. That’s when Tony noticed what Y/N was wearing.

“You’re wearing a robe,” Tony stated.
“So?” Y/N responded, keeping her focus on his knee.
“I’m suppose to pick you up in ten minutes and you’re in a robe.” A smirk formed on his face. “You have no idea what to wear.”
“Well it’s hard to find something that pleases myself and catches another man’s eye tonight.”
“Another man?” His hand flew up to hit over his heart. “Don’t break my heart like that, Y/N/N.”
“Can’t help it.” She did one final touch up before standing up. “There you go.”
Tony took one of Y/N’s hands and kissed the back of it. “Thank you.”
“Of course.” She pulled her hand away. “I should go get ready.”
“Yeah… and maybe I should get a different pair of pants on.”
“Might be a good idea. Though, I vaguely remember a night at a bar where you thought you were a stripper.”
“Hey!” He pointed a finger at her. “I thought we swore never to talk about that.”
“You did, I didn’t.” Y/N shrugged teasingly before leaving the bathroom.
“Well, what about that time you—“
“Don’t even try it Tony!”

~~~

Tony took Y/N out to a fancy restaurant, which wasn’t that surprising. Because of the tripping incident, a barrier had been broken down and the two were bantering and conversing like old times. It was nice for both of them. When dinner was done, Tony still hadn’t brought up anything about the gala or promising a merge. It was eating away at him. Tony understood that it needed to be him breaking it to Y/N, he just didn’t know if he could bare losing her again.

When they arrived back at Y/N’s house, Tony insisted on walking her up to the doorstep. Y/N could tell that something was bothering him, she just didn’t know if their relationship was in a place where she could ask.

“Thank you for tonight, Tony,” she said with a soft smile. “I had a lot of fun.”
“Thank you for allowing me to take you,” he responded.

They stopped in front of the door and stared at each other. They were both silent and the tension grew with each passing second.

“Are you—“ / “Would you—“

They laughed at the way they talked and cut each other off. Y/N waved him to go on.

“Are you free at the beginning of next week?” Tony asked. “I’ll be back in town and I would like to do this again. As friends, of course.”
“I… I would like that,” Y/N responded. “I’ll make sure my schedule is open.”
“Good.” He nodded.
“Tony?”
“Hmm?”
“Is something on your mind besides that?”
He sighed. “I can’t lie to you, but I’m also not ready to say it yet. Next week, I promise.” He leaned in and kissed her cheek. “Thanks again and I’ll be in touch.”

Y/N watched as Tony hurried down the stairs, jumped into his car, and speed off. As she did so, she desperately tried to stop her heart from bleeding for Tony Stark.

Chapter Text

After Y/N had put herself to bed, her phone buzzed. She reached over to see it was a text from Tony.

Heartbreaker: Thanks for taking care of me tonight and allowing me some time with you. I’ll pick you up next Tuesday at 7. See you then.

Y/N didn’t bother replying. She simply set her phone back down and turned away from it in bed. That stupid man didn’t leave her thoughts, or dreams, the rest of night. Or the days in between “dates”. Y/N tried her hardest to focus on work and dealing the her Grandmother’s assets she had yet to take care of, but Tony somehow always crept into her thoughts or conversations.

“Miss L/N, we have had some people from Stark Industries reach out a few times,” Y/N’s new assistant Wanda told her from over the phone.

“About what?” Y/N wondered.

“They are insistent on talking only to you. But rumor has it it’s about some business deal.”

“Huh, interesting… well I’m meeting with Tony, the CEO, tomorrow so I can ask him questions then.”

“Oh. I don’t see that meeting on your calendar. When is it?”

“At 7. It’s not on my calendar because it’s a more… well, a more personal meeting.”

“A personal meeting? Oh?” Wanda teased. “Are you and Mr. Stark—“

“Old friends. That’s it.”

“Ssssuuuurrrre.”

“Is there anything else we need to go over today, Wanda?”

“No. Everything’s covered. I’ll make sure to schedule out that time with Mr. Stark and let Stark Industries know next time they call.”

“Thanks, Wanda. I’ll call you if I need anything.”

Y/N ended the call and then sat back with a sigh. She pursed her lips as she twirled a pen in her hands. What could Stark Industries possibly want that Tony wouldn’t have just told her himself? She sat there and stewed on it for a minute or two before shrugging and ending her work day.

~~~

“You can’t be serious?” Rhodey questioned. “Y/N actually agreed be alone with you not just once, but twice?”

“It was a surprise to me as well,” Tony responded, taking a sip of his bourbon. Rhodey was in town for work and had reached out to Tony to meet for lunch.

“Wow. That’s just… wow.”

“Yeah… too bad that I’ll probably screw it up when I meet up with her tomorrow.”

“How?”

“Well, apparently, I promised a joint gala hosted by her company and my own.”

“That’s not too bad. I can see Y/N agreeing to that.”

“That’s not the worse part… I also said that our two companies would be merging.”

Rhodey coughed on the liquid in his mouth. “Wh—what? You did…. I… You promised a merge of Grandmother’s company to yours without even talking to Y/N first?”

“I know. I know I screwed up. Again.”

“Oh, no.” Rhodey shook his head. “You did worse than screw up again. I don’t think there’s a term for what you’ve done. You know that as soon as she hears this, she’s gone right? Again. This time for good.”

“I know, okay? I know that I could lose her for good. I’m trying to figure out the best way to stop this.”

“Easy. Go back to your board and tell them it’s off.”

“It’s too late.”

“You’re the owner and CEO of the company, Tony! It’s not too late.”

Tony sighed. “I’m planning on telling her when I take her out tomorrow… well, after… I want one last good memory with her before I go and destroy our relationship again.”

“Well, good luck and let me know how it goes. You know, if she doesn’t murder you first.”

Tony chuckled a little before suddenly becoming fearful. “She wouldn’t, would she?”

~~~

Tony was more nervous for this ‘date’ than the last one. But it was because it was now or never. He had to tell Y/N about the gala and possible merge before it got out to her. Tony was honestly surprised it hadn’t got out to her yet. Maybe it was just luck, or karma. Possibly a bit of both. He let out a shaky breath as his sweaty grip tightened on the steering wheel. Tony knew that he had to play it cool for the first part of dinner. He needed to allow himself at least on hour with Y/N before he blew everything up, again.

Y/N was more nervous this evening with Tony as well. It was like an excited nervousness, and she couldn’t decide if she absolutely hated that she felt that way or actually enjoyed it. She hated to admit that she was being to enjoy Tony’s company again. Y/N still believed she needed to be careful, worried that Tony could ruin it again. But it was nice to be on speaking terms again. She always missed him, deep down, but this was just proving how much she really had missed and honestly needed him.

Y/N was waiting in the living room, watching out the window, when Tony arrived. Before he could even get out of his car, she was out the front door.

“I was going to come up there and get you,” Tony whined as he exited the car and walked around to the passenger side.

“I know,” Y/N shrugged. “I just didn’t think you needed to waste the steps.”

“Or you were just excited to see me,” he smirked as he opened the passenger door for her. “Come on, you can be honest.”

“Excited to see you or excited for this to be over?” She retorted as she sat down in the car.

“Rude.” Tony shut the door and ran around the car before getting into the drivers seat.

“So, where are you taking me tonight?”

“I was thinking that we could go down memory lane a bit.” He began driving away from he house.

“Memory lane? Now am scared.”

“Don’t worry. I found out that that small burger joint downtown is still open and I thought we could eat there.”

“Oh, that’s… that sounds great.”

Tony furrowed his brows at her tone. “What? What is it?”

“The…” She paused and sighed. “I… Grandmother and I used to frequent it.”

“Oh, I didn’t know. We can go somewhere else. I—“

“No.” She stopped his worried rambling with a gentle hand on the top of his closest knee to her. “It’s okay.” She nodded slightly. “I’ve actually been meaning to go back.”

“Are you sure?” Tony glanced her way, able to meet her eyes to see the truth.

“I’m sure.”

~~~

Tony made sure to put the car in park fast so that he could run around and open the door for Y/N. She gave him a small smile and a soft thanks, melting his heart. As they walked towards the burger joint, Tony’s hands began to twitch ever so slightly. He knew that his anxiety was bubbling as well as his desire to hold Y/N’s hand. He quickly stuffed his hands in his pockets to prevent him from grabbing one of Y/N’s or from her noticing the twitch. But she had, out of the corner of her eye. Y/N bit the inside of her lip to prevent herself from reaching out to him.

When they walked into the burger joint, Y/N paused just inside the doors. She looked around, her head feeling with memories of a much younger Tony and herself, and Grandmother, and Maria and Howard. They practically grew up in the joint. Tony noticed that Y/N was frozen in her spoke and walked back to her. He reached out and gently touched her arm.

“You okay?” Tony asked softly. Y/N made eye contact, seeing nothing but pure concern and… love? No. She had to be making that up. “We can still go. It’s not too late.”

“No,” she shook her head. “I’m good. I just needed a moment.”

“You sure?”

“Mhm.”

“Okay. Just… let me know if we need to go and we’ll go.”

“Thank you, Tony.”

He shot Y/N a soft smile before offering her his arm. She smiled in return and put her arm through his. Tony guided Y/N over to one of the window booths. He let her sit down before he sat down across from her. The waitress was over quickly and they easily ordered, neither of their orders having changed. The two chatted all through dinner and were now waiting for their milkshakes to come out.

“So… my assistant told me yesterday that Stark Industries has been trying to get a hold of me,” Y/N said, fiddling with her straw wrapper. Tony had to stop himself from choking. “Any idea why?”

“Uh… yeah,” he responded nervously. “Actually I do.”

“And…?”

“Well, I, uh… shit. Well…”

“Tony.” She reached over and set her hand on top of his, her thumb rubbing against his hand. “Don’t need to be nervous. It’s me.”

“Yeah, well, you don’t know what I’m about to ask you.” Her brows furrowed. “I was in a meeting and I… I sorta promised that your company and my company would… host a gala together at the end of the month.”

“Oh.” Y/N pulled away. “A gala?”

“Yeah, for charity or some shit, I wasn’t really paying attention.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Of course you can get mad at me all you want, but…”

“But what, Tony?”

“But it’s kind of going to be announced tomorrow.”

“So you promised that we’d host a gala together, at the end of the month, and you’re just telling me now?”

“Yes… I’m sorry. But we do have about three weeks to get it all ready and Pepper is really good at this type of stuff so she’d take care of most of it. You’d really just need to show up and give a speech or two.”

“I… Tony… next time you promise something from me and my company, can you run it passed me first?”

“Yes,” he nodded quickly. “Of course. So… is that a yes?”

“Yes, we can host the gala together. I’ll make sure that my staff gets in contact with yours.”

“Great!”

“Just, Tony? Is there anything else you’ve promised from me and my company that I should know about?”

Tony’s brain froze for a quick second. Y/N hadn’t been as mad as he thought about the gala, but the merge would for sure hit the sore spot. He could wait on that though, right? Deal with one thing at a time.

“No.” He shook his head as the milkshakes were set down in front of them by the waitress. “Nothing else.”

Chapter Text

The gala was announced the next day, with the invites following a few days later. Y/N had decided that she should start working in the office again, especially to help make decisions about the gala. Wanda was beyond excited to help Y/N, and Pepper, with the planning.

“So…” Wanda started as she and Y/N worked on sending the L/N Company invites out for the gala. “Are you and Stark going to the gala together?”
“Wanda,” Y/N scolded, playfully.
“What? It’s a valid question.”
“No, Stark and I won’t be attending the gala together. Yes, we are hosting it together but we don’t need to be each other’s dates to do so. Will you have a date?”
“Actually…”
“Wanda! Who?”
“There’s this guy I’ve been talking to and he actually works for Stark Industries.”
“What’s his name?”
“Vision.”
“Vision. That’s… unique.”
“I thought so too. But he’s… so nice and smart and just… a really good guy.”
“Have you meet him in person before?”
“Once. I’m excited to go to the gala with him.”
“I’m excited for you.”
“If you’re not going with Stark, are you going to take a date?”
“I don’t think so. I’m fine going by myself to these things. Besides, sometimes half the fun is spending the night with someone new.”
“Y/N!” Wanda laughed as she playfully swatted at her.

~~~

“So how did that ‘not date’ with Y/N go?” Rhodey asked as him and Tony talked over the phone. “Were you honest with her about everything?”
“Well…”
“Tony. You can’t be serious.”
“She knows about the gala! You saw the announcement.”
“But she doesn’t know about the proposed merge?”
“I will tell her!”
“When Tony?”
“When I feel like it’s right!”
Rhodey let out a frustrated sigh. “Tony. I know—I get why you don’t want to ruin what’s happening between you and Y/N right now. You two are fixing your relationship and making progress and it’s really fragile right now. And I am so happy that my two friends are fixing their shit. But, Tony, the longer you wait to tell her, the bigger the fall out will be. You have to tell her. Sooner than later.”
“I know… I know… I’ll tell her. I just… I can’t lose her again, Rhodes. I just can’t.”
“I understand that. But, at this rate, you really might.”
“Yeah… yeah… I’ll figure it out… you bringing a date?”
“No, but I have some army friends that want to come. I think you and Y/N, mostly Y/N though, would like them.”
“Sure. Feel free. Just let me or Pepper know names and we’ll get invites sent to them.”
“Thanks. I’ve got to run but, Tony, tell her. Before it’s too late or someone else does. Tell her.”

~~~

After a long day at work, Y/N went home to her Grandmother’s house. She walked in and headed straight for the kitchen. She slipped a froze meal into the microwave to cook before she started for her bedroom. Y/N was about half way there with the doorbell rang. She furrowed her brows and walked to the door. Opening it, there was a delivery man with a large arrangement of many types of flowers on her doorstep.

“Y/N L/N?” He wondered.
“That’s me,” she replied.
“These are for you.” He handed over the large arrangement. “Seems you have quite the admirer. They bought the most expensive arrangement.”
“Thank you for delivering them.”
“Mhm. Have a good evening.”
“You too.”

Y/N shut the door with her hip before heading back to the kitchen. She sighed as she set the arrangement down on the island and began examining it. It really was a gorgeous arrangement and she didn’t even have to wonder as to who it was from. There was only one possible option. Looking through the arrangement, Y/N found a small envelope. She opened it and pulled out the note sitting in it.

Thank you for being okay about the gala. Be my date? ~ A.E.S.

Y/N rolled her eyes as she set the note on the counter. She knew that with Tony, it wasn’t really a question. He was just trying to make it seem like she had a choice in being his date or not. The microwave rang out and Y/N grabbed her food and her phone before sitting down at the island. After taking a bite of her food, she took her phone and texted Tony.

Me: Your date, huh?

It didn’t take long for Tony to answer.

Anthony Edward: yes. Besides the fact that we should as hosts, I would really like you by my side that night.

Y/N bit her lip as she read Tony’s response. She knew that she had told Wanda that she wasn’t going with Tony and that she didn’t need a date. But she admittedly was enjoying the time that she was reconnecting with Tony. She wasn’t going to make it easy for him though.

Me: The only reason I’m saying yes is because we’re co-hosting the gala.

Anthony Edward: I’ll take it.

Anthony Edward: Have you bought a dress yet?

Me: No. I was planning on shopping this weekend.

Anthony Edward: Don’t bother. I’ll have it sent over immediately.

Me: Sent over immediately? Stark. You didn’t.

Anthony Edward: No returns. I’ve already bought a matching tie.

Me: This isn’t the prom. This is a professional gala. For work.

Anthony Edward: Don’t worry, the dress is professional.

Me: Wasn’t talking about the dress.

Anthony Edward: Rude.

Anthony Edward: I’m never not professional.

Me: Sure. Whatever you say.

Me: So when should I expect the dress?

Anthony Edward: All in good time, my dear. All in good time.

Anthony Edward: I’m going to try and make it to see you before the gala. I have something I need to talk to you about.

Y/N suddenly filled with worry. What could Tony possibly need to talk to her about?

Me: Is everything alright?

Anthony Edward: I hope it will be.

Anthony Edward: I know you’re probably tired from work, so I’ll let you get to bed. Let me know when you get your dress.

Y/N didn’t like how quickly Tony was trying to change the subject and leave the conversation. She was growing concerned about what he needed to talk to her about.

Me: Are you sure everything’s okay?

Anthony Edward: Everything’s fine, Y/N/N. I promise. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Sleep tight.

Y/N sighed, setting the phone down. What was she going to do with that man?

~~~

Y/N was in her office with Wanda the next day when a box was delivered. The box was golden and large with a red ribbon tied around it.

“Who’s that from?” Wanda asked, coming to see the box sitting on Y/N’s desk.
“Uh… Tony,” Y/N responded.
“I thought you said you two weren’t dating?”
“We aren’t. Last night he asked me to be his date and I told him yes.”
“You did?! Oh my gosh that’s so exciting!”
“It’s strictly professional, Wanda. It just makes sense with us co-hosting the gala and all.”
“Sure. Whatever you say.” Y/N nervously fiddled with the ribbon. “So… are you going to open it?”
“I’ll a little nervous to see what’s inside.”
“Do you have a clue as to what Stark is sending you?”
“I do. I just don’t know if I’m ready to see it.”
“Well I could—“
“Sorry, Wanda, could you actually leave me alone for a second?”
“Of course. Let me know when you need me again.”

Wanda quickly grabbed all her things and left Y/N’s office, making sure the door was closed behind her. Y/N sighed as she finally untied the ribbon front the large box. She took the top off, resting it on the floor against the desk. There was a card in the box on top of layers of tissue paper. Y/N took the card and opened it.

I can’t wait to see you in this. I hope you like it as much as I do. ~ A.E.S.

A small smile forced it’s way onto Y/N’s lips. She set the card down before standing up to get a better vantage point of the box. Carefully, Y/N pulled the tissue paper aside to reveal a red satin dress. She stared at it in awe as she pulled it out, revealing that it was a floor length dress. It was gorgeous and very classy. Y/N hated to admit, as she studied the dress, that Tony had picked the perfect dress for her. How is it, after all that time apart, that Tony still knew her better than anyone?

“Damn it,” Y/N muttered as she dropped the dress and fell back into her chair. “I’m in love with Tony Stark.

Chapter Text

My Y/N/N: The dress came. It’s beautiful.

My Y/N/N: Thank you

Tony sighed as he read over Y/N’s texts again. She had sent them the day before, while he was in the midst of fighting the board about stopping the merge. He had even been honest with them and said that Y/N hadn’t approved of the merge. He had been immediately told that he needed to get Y/N on board with it because the head board member of Stark Industries, Obadiah Stane, and the head board member of Y/N’s company had already begun talking about it.

After that failed meeting, Tony hadn’t left his office. He stayed in it throughout the night, trying to figure out how to either fire the board members or tell Y/N how he had screwed up. Hence why he hadn’t answered her yet.

Losing Y/N wasn’t option, not again. Now that she was back in his life, Tony knew that he loved her and would wait as long as it took to be able to call her his. But the mistake he had made in promising a merge could completely ruin everything he had and could have with Y/N.

Tony sighed as he set his phone face down on his desk. he sat back in his chair, running a hand down his face. Pepper knocked on his office door before just walking right in.

“Did you spend the night here?” She asked.
“Yes,” Tony muttered. “I’m not leaving until I fix the mess I made.”
“And how is that going?” Pepper sat down in one of the chairs in front of Tony’s desk.
“Failing. Obadiah Stane is an awful piece of shit and I’ve been trying to figure out a way to kick him off the board all night. My ass of a father, Howard, trusted Stane too much. In Howard’s will, he stated that Stane will take his place on the board and will stay there until ten years after Howard’s death.”
“I’m sure there’s away around it.”
“I’ve been on the phone with the lawyers all night. They’re looking into it more, but they don’t think it’s an option.”
“And you can’t just be honest with Y/N?” Tony stayed silent. “Tony…”
He suddenly stood up. “I’m going to get some coffee.”

Tony grabbed his phone from his desk before marching out of his office. Pepper sighed, shaking her head slightly.

~~~

It was the day of the gala when Y/N heard from Tony finally.

Anthony Edward: I’ll pick you up at 6 from your hotel room.

She tried not to scoff too much as she rolled her eyes. It was annoying to have not heard from Tony until just now. Pepper was the only one she was in contact with at Stark Industries as Pepper booked her plane tickets and her hotel room.

Y/N sat down on the hotel bed and stared at the dress that was hanging off the room’s closet door. It was a gorgeous dress and she had been excited to wear it, but Tony’s cold shoulder was changing her mind. It was too late to find a new dress though, so she would just have to deal with it.

Y/N readied herself before slipping the dress on. She hadn’t tried in on, but just like she had thought, it fit her perfectly.

“Damn Stark,” Y/N muttered, looking at herself in the mirror.

She did some finishing touches to her look before sitting down on the edge of her bed and slipping her shoes on. As she was doing so, a knock sounded at the door.

“Just a second!” She called out, putting her last shoe on.

Y/N got up and opened the door. There, on the other side, stood Tony. He was dressed in a black suit, white dress shirt, and a matching colored tie to Y/N’s dress. He stood there, eyes raking down Y/N in awe.

“You look beautiful,” he breathed out.
“Thank you,” Y/N said curtly. She was still annoyed at him for the cold shoulder.
“You ready?”
“Just let me grab my purse.” Y/N turned and grabbed her purse off of the table near the door. Then she stepped out into the hallway and closed the door. “Now I’m ready.”
Tony held his arm out for Y/N to take. “My lady.”
She rolled her eyes and walked away, heading for the elevator. “I may be your date for the evening Stark, but only in front of the patrons.”
Tony hurried after her. “Is everything okay?”
Y/N scoffed. “You’ve been ignoring me for like a week, what do you think?”
“I can explain.” He stepped in front of her as the elevator doors closed behind him.
“Please, do. I’d just love to hear why you decided to be a jackass once again.”
“I’m sorry, okay? I was… well… I was… I was… I messed up.”
“Damn right you did.”
“Wait. You know?”
“Know what?”
“So you don’t know?”
“Okay, so now I’m completely lost. I was saying you messed up by ignoring me. But you clearly are talking about something else. What did you do?”
“I… well… I—“ The elevator dinged and the doors opened. “Oh look! Let’s get to the car.” He slipped his arm through Y/N’s and pulled her out of the elevator and towards the outside doors.
“Tony.” Y/N tripped over her own feet as Tony pulled her along and only didn’t fall on her face because of his arm linked with hers. “Tony, slow down and just tell me what you did.”

Tony ignored her pleas as he pulled her out of the hotel. Outside, there was a black towns car with a man standing by the door in a black suit.

“Mr. Stark,” the man greeted, bowing his head as he opened the door. “Miss L/N.”
“Thanks, Hap,” Tony responded as he urged Y/N into the car.

Y/N plopped into the car with a little huff and was pushed over when Tony got into the car. The man outside shut the car door before walking around to get in the driver’s seat.

“That’s Happy,” Tony explained. “He’s my ‘head of security’ and driver.”
“Tony,” Y/N crossed her arms and moved so that her back was against the door behind her and that she was facing Tony. “Tell me.”
“And ruin the night already? Can’t I at least have one dance?”
Y/N sighed. “Tony…” Her hand moved to rest on his knee. “I thought we were doing better.”
“We were—are. I just… one dance, please? I need one dance with you before I tell you.”
Y/N studied Tony’s face. It was clear something was eating at him and he was desperate to not ruin the night yet. “Okay, Tony. One dance.”

Tony pressed out a smile as he gently rested one of his hands on top of the hand Y/N had on his knee. The two stared out their separate windows in silence on the ride over, keeping their hands like that. When they arrived at where the gala was being held, there was a red carpet laid out, guiding everyone to the entrance, with reporters and cameras lining the way. Tony slipped on a pair of sunglasses before jumping out and running over to Y/N’s side of the car. He opened the door and helped her out. The crowds, reporters, and cameras began going crazy.

Y/N would never get use to this, even knowing that her company and Tony’s company were among the largest in the world and that their families were very well-known, being “famous” was never something Y/N believed would be an issue. She inhaled sharply as she slipped her hand around Tony’s arm to be able to grip it.

“Relax,” he whispered, lips brushing against her ear. “I’ve got you. Follow my lead.”

Y/N swallowed and nodded, allowing Tony to lead her towards the red carpet. Their names were being shouted by the reporters and cameramen. Tony paused them in the middle for pictures. They posed together, Tony trying his best to make Y/N feel at ease.

“I need to let you go so that they can get individuals of us,” Tony whispered. “Are you going to be okay?”
Y/N nodded. “Just don’t go too far.”
“Never.” He kissed her cheek, causing more commotion before stepping a few feet away from her.

The pair posed for a few separate shots before Tony was back at Y/N’s side with an arm around her waist. They could both feel Y/N immediately relax.

“You good?” Tony wondered, genuine concern in his voice.
“I’m good,” Y/N responded. “Can we go inside now?”
“Let’s go.”

Tony guided Y/N into the building. It was bustling with people already. There was a small stage on the other end, with decorated round tables in front of it. A small orchestra was on the side of the open back half, where couples were already dancing.

“Thank goodness!” Pepper exclaimed, hurrying over with Wanda. “We were worried.”
“Worried?” Y/N repeated.
“You are an hour late,” Wanda said.
Y/N side-eyed her date. “Tony—“
“The hosts can be late if they want to,” he waved off.
“Come on, Y/N,” Wanda said. “There are some people who’ve been asking about you.” Y/N followed Wanda further into the room.
“Have you told her yet?” Pepper asked.
“I will,” he replied.
“Tony!”
“I will! Okay? Just give me some time.”
“You’ve had plenty of time.” Pepper huffed, looking around the room. “You better hope that no one tells her before you do.”

~~~

“Y/N!”
“Rhodey!” Y/N walked over to her friend and embraced him.
“Wow.” He pulled back and looked her over. “You’re stunning.”
“I would have to agree.” Another man came from behind Rhodey. “Name’s Sargent Barnes,” he held a hand out. “But you can call me Bucky.”
Y/N shook his hand with a slight chuckle. “Y/N.”
“What a beautiful name for a beautiful woman.” He brought her hand up to his lips and kissed her knuckles.
“Bucky,” Rhodey groaned, rolling his eyes. “Stop being a ladies man for like five minutes, will ya? Besides, where are Rogers and Romanoff? I would like to introduce Y/N to some decent people.”
“We’re right here,” another man said, coming up to the small group with a woman at his side. “Hi, I’m Steve.”
“And I’m Natasha,” the woman added. “We’ve heard so much about you.”
“Oh I’m sorry,” Y/N laughed. “I hope it wasn’t all bad.”
“Just slightly embarrassing,” Rhodey admitted.
“How did you all meet Rhodes?”
“The military,” Steve responded.
Y/N nodded. “Of course.”
“Where’s Tony?” Rhodey asked, looking around.
“I don’t know,” Y/N shrugged. “My assistant pulled me away to meet a few people.” She looked around as well.
“If you and your date don’t mind, I’d like the chance to dance with you,” Bucky said, offering one of his hands.
“I don’t mind at all.” She smiled as she put her hand in his.

Bucky grinned as he guided her onto the dance floor. He pulled her into him as he lead them around in a small circle.

“Are you and Stark a thing?” Bucky bluntly asked.
Y/N laughed. “No, we are not.”
“Then why is he over there glaring at me?”

Bucky turned so that Y/N could see Tony standing on the side with a drink in hand, glaring as the two of them danced.

“He’s just… Tony,” Y/N excused. “He’s always been very protective of me.”
“Even when he treats you like shit?” Y/N eyes grew wide in surprise. “Sorry, Rhodes has told us everything.”
Y/N rolled her eyes. “Of course he has.”
“You deserve someone better than Stark.”
“Someone like you, I presume?”
Bucky smirked. “Can’t do better than me, doll.”
“I guess we’ll see about that.”

~~~

Bucky let Y/N go make more rounds after two dances. She was kinda of disappointed at Tony the whole time Bucky danced and flirted with her. He was too busy glaring their way to come and interrupt them. She had sort of hoped that he would fight for her, but she guessed that proved that her feelings were one sided. Y/N wandered around the room, mingling with people, before a man stopped her.

“Miss L/N,” he greeted. “Obadiah Stane, board member at Stark Industries. How are you?”
“I’m good,” she responded.
“This is a wonderful gala you and Tony have put together.”
“Well, you should thank our assistants for it. They did all the hard work.”
“Indeed. It’s a great place to announce the merge.”
“Excuse me? Merge? What merge?”
“Haven’t you been informed?”
“This gala was set up to announce a merge of your company with Stark Industries.”
“I… I’m afraid I wasn’t informed.”
“My apologizes.”
“And who, may I asked, came up with the merge?”
“Why, Tony, of course.”

Y/N found Tony across the room. Their eyes met and Tony quickly paled. He excused himself and hurried across the room.

“Thank you for telling me, Mr. Stane,” Y/N said. “Excuse me.”

Y/N turned around and rushed to the edge of the room and down one of the hallways. She was furious. How could Tony do this to her? Promise her company away like it was his own?

“Y/N!” Tony shouted after her. “Y/N! Stop!”

She picked up speed, running through a door to the outside where it had begun raining. She paused in the middle of the alley.

“Y/N,” Tony called from the door way. “Come inside before you get too wet. Please.”
“No,” she spun around. “Is this what you needed to tell me? Why you’ve been acting so weird?” Tony looked away, guilty expression across his face. “You promised a merge of our two companies, without even so much as a mention to me. How could you do that to me?” He stayed silent. “How could you do that to Grandmother?”
“It was a mistake.” He took a careful step out into the rain, closer to Y/N. “One that I’ve been trying to right since I made it.”
“Is this what it’s all been about? You… you coming back into my life? Fighting for my friendship? Just to… just to take my company.”
“No!” He shook his head as he came closer to her. “I didn’t want this to happen and I didn’t want you to find out like this.”
“Then why, Tony?” She looked at him with watery eyes. He couldn’t tell if her cheeks were wet because of the rain, tears, or both. It was breaking him. “Why did you keep this a secret from me? After everything…”
“Because I love you.” Y/N inhaled sharply, heart picking up speed. “I love you, Y/N. And I didn’t want to lose you again. I can’t lose you again… I made a mistake and I’ve been working my ass off trying to fix it so that you wouldn’t look at me like that… Like you can’t trust me…”
“I can’t trust you, Tony… you… I don’t know if I can believe a single word you’ve ever told me.”
“I know.” His hands came up and touched Y/N’s arms, running down them until he had a hold of her hands. “And I will never stop apologizing and trying to make up for my mistakes. If there’s one thing you choose to believe, believe this: I love you. Ever since we were young and foolish and being teased by mom and Grandmother. I have loved you every agonizing second I have been away from you since the night I scared you away.” He tugged her closer before his hands slowly came up to cup her face. “I love you.”

Tony leaned forward. His lips captured hers in a kiss and Y/N froze. It took Y/N a moment to realize what was happening and for her to push him away.

“No!” She shouted. “You can’t just tell me you love me and kiss me and think it will fix everything! It just makes it hurt worse… do you know how long I’ve waited to hear those words from you, Tony? When I said those words to you the day of your parents funeral, I meant them. And if I said them right now, I’d mean them too… But I’d just be hurting myself.”
“Y/N—“ He reached out but his hand arm fell to his side as she stepped away.
“No. Loving you has done nothing but hurt me, Tony… you’ve done nothing but hurt me.”
“I know.” He hung his head.

Y/N stared at him as applause rang out to them from the still open doors. Y/N clenched her eyes shut. Her company was no longer hers and she wasn’t even able to put up a fight, not like she had much energy to currently.

“I’m going to fix this,” Tony promised. “I’ll go in there and—“
“It’s too late, Tony,” Y/N said, opening her eyes to look at the man. “It’s been announced. The company’s are merging, end of story.” She turned around to head out of the alley.
“Where are you going?”
“To clear my head.”
“You shouldn’t be out in the rain like this. You could catch something. Please, come back.”
“I can’t look at you right now, Tony… honestly, I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to look at you again.”

Tony stayed where he was as he watched Y/N walk away from him for what felt like the last time.

Chapter Text

Tony finally re-entered the building, clearly soaking wet and deflated. As he walked down the hallway, he was stopped by Stark Industries board member, Obadiah Stane.

“Where have you been Tony?” The man asked. “Both you and Miss L/N missed the merge announcement.”
Tony looked at Obadiah. “You knew that Y/N didn’t know about the merge, didn’t you? Yet you still went along with it.”
“Tony, the merge is good for both of the companies. We all know that. Y/N will see that eventually. You just need to give it time.”
“You’re fired.”
Obadiah chuckled. “Sorry, what?”
“You’re fired. I don’t care what Howard’s will states, my lawyers will figure it out. But you’re off my board.”
“We’ll see about that.”

Obadiah marched off. Tony closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose as he leaned against the wall.

“Tony?” Rhodey asked as he walked up to his friend. “Are you wet? What’s going on? Where’s Y/N?”
“She found out, Rhodes,” Tony whispered. “She found out and ran off. She’s gone.”

~~~

“She’s been gone for too long,” Tony fretted.

Tony was pacing in one of the side rooms of the building that the gala had been hosting in. His tie and suit coat were thrown over a chair and his shirt’s top 3 buttons were undone. The gala wrapped up about an hour after Y/N had walked off, that was three hours ago. Tony was freaking out, but no one would let him go after Y/N, afraid that he would just make it worse.

“Rhodey, his friends, Wanda, and Happy, are all out looking for her,” Pepper tried to comfort. “They’ll find her.”
“This is all my fault. If I had just been honest with her from the start, none of this would be happening.” Tony stopped and turned to face Pepper. “I need to be out there searching for her. It’s still raining! And if she’s still out there, then she’s definitely caught something! She could get sick and… I can’t even say it…”
“Tony,” Pepper stood up and rested her against on his arms, “Y/N’s going to be okay. She probably slipped into a bar.”
“Yeah… yeah… you’re probably right, I just… I love her so much, Pep.”
“I know… and, from what you said, she loves you too. That doesn’t just go away over night.”
“She told me that all that loving me has done is hurt her… all I do is hurt her…”
“And yet, even after all this time, she still loves you.” Tony looked away causing Pepper to sigh. “You’re going to figure this out, Tony.”

~~~

Y/N honestly didn’t know how long she had been walking. She was at the point where she was numb, not even noticing the rain pouring down on her. Her arms were folded across her body, subconsciously trying to keep herself warm. She was clearly out of it and only kept going because she knew that if she stopped, she’d just fall down to the ground.

“Y/N?” A voice called out from a rolled down window of a car. The car had pulled up to the curb and was slowly following Y/N. “Y/N? Come on, get in the car.”

Y/N could hear the voice but was unable to recognize it’s owner or really stop herself from walking. The car stopped and the person jumped out of the car. The quick footsteps splashed in the puddles of water on the sidewalk.

“Y/N,” Bucky called as he came into view. He stood in front of her, stopping her from walking anymore. “You’re soaked, doll.” His hands came up to cup her face to try and get Y/N to focus on him. “Shit. You’re both cold and hot. We’ve got to get you back and inside. Everyone’s worried about you.” Bucky moved so that he was beside Y/N to guide her to his car. They barely took a step before Y/N’s knees gave out. “Woah there.” Bucky kept her up against him. “I’ve got you.”

Keeping one arm around her back, Bucky leaned down and put his other arm under her knees and picked her up. He carried her back to his car, carefully setting her in the back seat and buckling her up. Y/N immediately began shivering. Bucky quickly took of his suit coat and laid it over her before getting into the drivers seat. As he drove away, he called Rhodey.

“Barnes! Have you found her?” Rhodey wondered.
“I found her,” Bucky replied.
Rhodey let out a sigh of relief. “How is she?”
Bucky glanced back at Y/N using the rear view mirror. “Honestly, I think I’m going to have to take her to the hospital.”
“Do it. I’ll let everyone else know and we’ll meet you there.”

The phone call ended and Bucky drove straight to the hospital. He parked before coming around and picking Y/N up to bring her inside. He grimaced at the way she was shivering and pushing into him for warmth. When he got inside, Bucky quickly explained to the nurse at the front desk the situation. The nurse guided them back to a room and told Bucky that he’d have to wait out in the waiting room while they get Y/N situated. When he entered the waiting room, Tony, Pepper, and the others were rushing in.

“Where is she?!” Tony was frantic. “Is she okay?!”
“I just took her back there,” Bucky explained. “The nurses and doctors are taking care of her.”
“What happened?”
“Y/N had clearly been walking in the rain and cold since she left the gala. She was… out of it. Just dazed and when I got her in the car, she was shivering so bad.”
“She’s going to die…” Tony said, dramatically fall back into a chair. “And it will all be my fault. I—“
“Stop being over dramatic, Tony!” Rhodey exclaimed. “She probably just caught a cold or the flu.”
“Thousands of people die from the flu each year, she could easily—“
“Stop it! Now! Stop with the pity party. No one feels bad for you because you’re the one who messed shit up! You should have been honest with Y/N from the start. None of this would be happening if you would have just been honest with her!”
“I know that Rhodes!” Tony jumped up. “I know that! I’m a failure! A mess up!” Tony huffed, looking away from his friend. “Don’t you get that I know I screwed up? That she may never want to look at me the same way again. If she looks at me at all… I lost the greatest thing in my life.”
“What are you going to do about the merge?” Wanda wondered.
Tony sighed. “Before she walked away, I told Y/N that I’d fix it but she said that it was too late… I don’t think there’s any fixing this.”
“From what I’ve heard from Rhodey, if anyone can fix this, Stark, it’s you,” Steve tried to comfort.
“Though this isn’t the first time his messed up,” Bucky said. “And every time hasn’t been the simplest mess ups.” Natasha punched Bucky in the arm. “Ow!” He gripped his arm. “What? It’s the truth.”
“Miss Y/N L/N’s family,” a nurse called out as she entered the waiting room.
“Yes,” Tony responded as he stepped forward. “That’s us.”
“Miss L/N is warming up great. She can go home in about an hour. We just want to run a few more tests, but she’ll most likely just be fighting a cold for the next few days.”
Tony breathed out in relief. “Oh, good.”
“Will one of you be okay to take her home?”

Everyone looked at Tony. He shook his head and turned away. Rhodey stepped up and put a hand on his friends shoulder.

“We’ll figure it out,” Rhodey said. “Someone will get her home.”

The nurse gave them a small smile and a nod before making her leave.

“So… who’s taking her home?” Bucky asked.

~~~

After it was decided that Rhodey and Wanda would take Y/N home, Tony slipped into Y/N’s room. He stood awkwardly in the doorway, trying to decided if Y/N was still asleep or not. When he felt it was safe, Tony slowly walked up to the bed and sat in the chair beside it.

“I’m sorry…” he whispered. “I’m so sorry, Y/N…” Tony looked up at the ceiling as he tried to keep his emotions at bay. “I’m sorry that loving me has been nothing but hurtful… I wish that it wasn’t… I’m going to fix this. Even if you never want to see or talk to me again. I’m doing to fix this.” He stood up and leaned over Y/N, carefully pressing his lips to her forehead. “I love you.”

Tony took a long look at Y/N before letting out a little sigh and leaving the room. Rhodey was outside of the room, having had watched the whole interaction.

“I know that you’re mad at me,” Tony said. “And that you’ll probably take Y/N’s side every time now. I don’t blame you. I am going to fix this.”
“You better,” Rhodey said before going into Y/N’s room.

Tony watched as Rhodey took the seat beside Y/N before he walked away. Pepper caught Tony before he could completely leave the hospital.

“What’s the plan?” She asked.
“I don’t really know,” Tony responded. “I know I’ve completely screwed up, but Pep, will you help me fix this?”
“Only if you run every plan by me or Rhodey first. And maybe actually listen and take our advice.”
“Yeah, I think I can do that.”

~~~

Y/N woke up to find Rhodey sitting in the chair beside her hospital bed. He was causally scrolling through his phone, holding a paper coffee cup in his other hand. Rhodey could feel a pair of eyes on him and looked up. He smiled as he noticed Y/N awake.

“Hey there Princess,” he teased.
“Princess?” Y/N questioned. “Hardly think I deserve that nickname.”
“Oh you do. Especially since you walked in the cold rain for hours and oh-so handsome Bucky found you and brought you to the hospital.”
“I’m gonna need to remember to thank him.”
“I don’t know about that. I think it will only inflate his ego more.”
“Good point.”
Rhodey watched as Y/N adjusted herself to sit up more. “How are you?”
“Fine.”
“Y/N.”
“I’m fine, Rhodes. Clearly, I have a cold and my company is merging with Stark’s, but I’m fine.”
Rhodey sighed. “Tony should have told you himself.”
Y/N scoffed. “You think?” Her eyes sought out the window to the hall before finding Rhodey again. “Tell me he’s not here.”
“He was. But he left a few minutes ago.”
“Good. I don’t want to see him.”
“Y/N—“
“Ever.”
“If your companies are going to merge, you’re going to have to.”
“Not if I just sell him the company.”
“Y/N, no. You can’t be serious.”
“Very.”
“It’s your family’s legacy. It’s… It’s Grandmother’s legacy.”
“Doesn’t matter.” She shook her head. “I can’t be forced to see Tony at work everyday. To be business partners. Not after all this.”
“You could call off the merge.”
“And what? Tell everyone the truth? That I was blindsided? No one would ever trust me or my company again if we backed out of a deal with Stark Industries. It would ruin the whole company… better to just give it to Stark than ruin it.”
“And how do you plan on telling Tony this if you’re not willing to see or talk to him?”
“My lawyers will inform him as soon as I am well enough to talk to them about it.”
“Y/N…”
She put her hand up. “Please, don’t, Rhodey. This is my decision, okay? He made his and now I have to make hard decisions in response to it.”
“You don’t have to give up the company entirely.”
“It’s my only option.”

Chapter Text

“I mess everything up, Mom,” Tony whispered. “I mess everything up with Y/N every damn time. But this… this time I messed it up real bad.” He standing in front of his parent's headstone, hands stuffed in his pockets with his shoulders heavy, like a little boy about to get in trouble. “You would be so disappointed in me.” He looked away. “And so would Dad.” He sighed. “I need help fixing this. Somehow, I need you two to help me fix this. So… I need a sign or something, I don’t really know. I just need help.”

~~~

Wanda and Rhodey got Y/N home safely, making sure she had enough groceries and medication. Y/N explained a little of her plan to Wanda. With some hesitation and hope that Y/N would change her mind, Wanda promised to get in touch with the lawyers after the weekend. After finally being left alone, Y/N locked her phone away and kept away from the news on the tv.

The merge announcement was everywhere, with pictures of Tony and Y/N taken on the red carpet. Along with the announcement, speculation of the two being a couple was being made, with a picture of Tony kissing Y/N’s cheek on the red carpet. Y/N couldn’t handle it, especially with her shattered heart.

Y/N spent the majority of the weekend in her bed, crying and eating junk food. She honestly didn’t know what to do about the merge. She didn’t want to give her company away, but what other option did she have? She couldn’t possibly stand seeing Tony so often, especially after what had just occurred. But how could Y/N give her family’s company away? What would Grandmother think about that?

Pure and utter disappointment, that’s what Grandmother would be feeling. Y/N covered herself up with her blanket as she groaned, becoming more disappointed with herself. She had to figure out a way to be able to still own the company and be a part of it while trying to be cordial to Tony. Even if being just cordial would take a while to happen.

~~~

“Good morning, Y/N,” Wanda greeted as Y/N entered the office. “You seem to be doing better this morning.”
“I am, thank you, Wanda,” Y/N responded, heading to her desk. “Have you contacted the lawyers like I asked?”
“I have, they’ll be here in the afternoon.”
“Good. Did you tell them about my plan to sell?” Y/N sat down at her desk.
“I did not. I figured that you should.”
“Good because I’m not selling the company anymore.”
“You’re not?” Wanda perked up.
“No, I’m keeping the company, we’re going to merge and I’m going to make Tony Stark’s life a living hell.”
“Oh, um, are you sure that’s the best—“
“Wanda, I really do appreciate you but this is my company and I will do what I see fit.”
“Of course. Do you need anything else this morning?”
“Don’t let anyone disturb me this morning as I prep for the lawyers.”
“Of course. I’ll be at my desk if you need anything.” Wanda walked out, quickly pulled out her phone, and called Rhodey.
“Rhodes here,” the man answered.
“Rhodes, it’s Wanda. Remember how I told you that Y/N was planning on selling the company?”
“Yes.”
“Well, she’s changed her mind now and I think it’s going to be worse.”
“How could this possibly get any worse?”

~~~

Y/N spent three days with the lawyers, finalizing their end of the merge, before showing up at Stark Industries unannounced.

“Y/N?” Pepper questioned, standing up from her desk when she noticed Y/N marching towards Tony’s office. “What are you doing here? We weren’t expecting you.”
“I’m here for Mr. Stark. Is he in?”
“Yes but, Y/N, can you stay out here and talk for a—“
“I’m here on business, Miss Potts. Nothing else.”

Y/N headed into Tony’s office. Tony’s head snapped up before he was scrambling to stand up and look presentable once he noticed it was Y/N walking through the door.

“Y/N?” Tony breathed out. “What—what are you doing here?”
“I’m here on business, Mr. Stark,” Y/N responded.
Tony flinched, his face looking like he had just been shot. “Y/N—“
“My lawyers and I have talked about the merge and this,” she took out the large bundle of official documents from the bag she was carrying and threw them on Tony’s desk, “is what we came up with. I am willing to wait a few days, but I want this merge finalized as soon as possible.”
“Of—Of course. I’ll get these looked at with my lawyers.”
“Great.” Y/N turned to leave.
“Wait,” Tony rushed around his desk, “don’t go yet.” Y/N didn’t make a move to leave or to turn around. “I… I know that an apology won’t change what happened, but I am sorry. And… you don’t have to go through with this merge if you don’t want to, I can take all the hit with the press. I’ll do it, I’ll do anything to make this right.”

Y/N closed her eyes and took a deep breath before turning back to face Tony. She took a good long look at him. He had clearly not gotten any sleep, his eyes had large purple bags underneath them and he had more age lines on his face than normal. Her heart clenched, wanting to do something to help him, but she stopped herself.

“We both know that no matter what you do to ease the blow of canceling the merge, the press will turn this around on me,” Y/N said. “We will not be canceling the merge, I am good to go through with it. But, let me make one thing very clear, we,” she motioned between the two of them, “are no longer friends. We are business partners, nothing else.”
“Y/N—“
“No. Nothing else.” Tears pricked both of their eyes. Tony clenched his hands, trying to stop himself from reaching out and comforting Y/N. “I look forward to hearing from your lawyers and I’ll be in touch once everything is squared away about where our headquarters would be placed. Have a good day, Mr. Stark.”

Y/N turned and headed out of the room. She tried not to walk too fast as to seem like she was in a rush to leave, but she feared that her emotions would get the best of her. As soon as she was in the elevator and the doors were closed, she let it all loose. One of her hands came up to cover her mouth, failing to hide or stop the sobs beginning to burst from her. She leaned up against the elevator wall, trying to hold herself up but failing to, and slipped down the wall.

Tony stayed frozen in place, a single tear running down his face, as he watched Y/N walk away and into the elevator. Slowly, he sat back down at his desk and pulled up the elevator’s security cameras. His hand came up to cover his mouth as he tried not to cry at the sight of Y/N breaking down in the elevator. He pressed a few buttons, stopping anyone from using the elevator until Y/N was ready to exit.

Pepper bit her lip as she stood in the doorway of Tony’s office and watched her boss and dear friend struggle with the consequences of his mistakes. She eventually cleared her throat and stepped into the office, quietly closing the door behind her. Tony glanced up at Pepper before reaching into his jacket pocket, pulling out a pair of sunglasses, and slipping them on.

“I need you to get these to our lawyers immediately,” Tony said, picking up the papers Y/N had left and holding them out to Pepper. She quietly came up and took them. “I need these read through and agreed to as soon as possible.”
“Tony, I—“
“I really don’t want to hear it right now, Pepper. I would like to be left alone.” He turned in his chair to face the outside windows.
“I’ll get these to the lawyers and make sure no one bugs you for the rest of the day.”
“Thank you.”

Pepper went to leave, pausing at the door to look back at her broken boss. She eventually left the office, shutting the door, and sat down at her desk with a sigh.

Chapter Text

“Are you sure you want to agree to their terms, Mr. Stark? They’re asking that Miss L/N own 51% of the newly merged companies. She would have more say in what happens than you.”
“I don’t care,” Tony responded, looking at his lawyers through his dark-tinted sunglasses.
“Mr. Stark, you’d be giving away—“
“I told you, I don’t care. I’ve read over the papers myself and am willing to sign them.”
“Tony,” Pepper called quietly from the seat beside him. “Maybe we should talk it all through before—“
“No.” Tony stood up suddenly. “I’m signing them now, let’s get this over with.” He reached over and dragged the pile of official papers offer. He began going through them quickly, signing and initialing next to wherever Y/N had. “There.” He pushed them back towards the lawyers. “All done.” He turned around and headed out of the room.
Pepper rushed after him. “Tony, we need to talk about where the new headquarters will be and the name of the business now that we’re officially merged. We also need to meet with Y/N and talk about sending out a press statement or a press conference or doing a tv interview together.”
“You can handle getting all that set up, right?” Tony headed straight for his office.
“Tony, you need to talk to her too. You will be working together.”
Tony threw open his desk drawer and took out a bottle of whiskey. “I know that, Pepper.” He took a swig from the bottle.
“I thought that we were going to come up with a plan to win her back.”
“I was, but she clearly doesn’t want that.”
“No,” Pepper shook her head. “No! I will not accept that.”
Tony furrowed his brows, looking at his assistant with utter confusion. “What?”
“You two are meant to be together. You both love each other. Yes, mistakes have been made but these are forgivable with time.”
“She’s forgiven me before… she won’t make that same mistake again…”
“You don’t know that. She needs time and you need to prove to her that you are sorry.”
“And how do we go about doing that?”

~~~

Y/N was sitting in her office, getting no work done. Her thoughts were on Tony and how he was taking her terms. It had been a few days since she stormed into his office and gave him the papers. Nothing had been heard from Tony or his lawyers, so Y/N could only imagine that they were drafting their counter plans.

“Y/N?” Wanda called over the phone intercom.
“Yes?” Y/N responded.
“Mr. Stark is here to talk to you.”
Y/N’s heart skipped a beat. “Let him in.”

Y/N stayed sitting as a clearly nervous Tony came into the room. He had dark sunglasses covering his eyes as he held a large cardboard tube in one hand and a paper grocery bag in the other.

“Mr. Stark,” Y/N greeted, trying to play off like she wasn’t a little happy to see him. “What can I do for you?”
“I wanted to personally tell you that I have signed the papers. The companies are officially merged.”
Y/N failed to hide the surprise on her face. “What?”
“I’ve agreed to your terms,” he sat down in a chair in front of her desk. “You own 51%, I own 49%. And now, since it’s officially, I came to discuss plans for the new headquarters.” He shook the cardboard tube in his hand. “I brought some food with me,” he held up the paper grocery bag, “just in case.”
“You seriously signed them without any changes?”
“I did.”
“Why?”
“Why not? You are a brilliant businesswoman. Any business would be lucky to have you at the forefront of it. Besides, we both know I’m a shitty businessman anyway.” Y/N stayed silent, still shocked about Tony signing the papers. “You want to get started?”
“Uh, yes. Let’s.”

Y/N began clearing off her desk as Tony opened up the cardboard tube and pulled out multiple large papers. Tony spread the papers across Y/N’s desk. She immediately noticed a new company logo in the corner, L/N-Stark Industries with an S and the first letter of your surname on the side of it, intertwined. Tony noticed Y/N staring.

“It’s just an idea,” he excused. “We can obviously change it if you want.”
“No,” she responded. “It’s fine.”
Tony nodded. “Okay. I know that both of our companies have lots that any of these designs will work on, so I thought we could focus on the design of the building first.”
“You seemed to have already done that.”
“Yes, but everything is editable. I have three designs here, with each of the floors laid out just in case.”
Y/N began studying the first design. “I like how this main floor is laid out. How there’s a large front desk and a separate waiting room.” She turned to the next page. “This floor is for?”
“I was thinking of cubicles and smaller conference rooms for our staff. There are actually two floors like this. The floor after it is our first lab floor.” Tony flipped the pages over to reveal what he was talking about.
“How many lab floors are you thinking of having?”
“I was thinking of four, especially because one of them would be specifically just for me.”
“Okay,” Y/N nodded.
“The next two floors would be for our board members and higher-ups. There are offices for all of them and a large conference room on each floor.” Tony turned to the next page. “This is the top floor, it has a massive conference room in the middle of the floor. On one side is your office and the next side is mine. Our assistants will have their own offices close to the elevator and they will have at least one assistant on the main desk outside their offices to help with the traffic flow.” Tony glanced at Y/N, trying to figure out where she was at. “Of course, we can change anything to be the way you want it.”
Y/N stared at the plans for a few silent moments before folding her arms across her chest and looking at Tony. “We need to have a private elevator that is just for us and our assistants. I don’t want to be caught in an elevator with people I would rather not be.”
“Done, easy, I’ll add it.”
“And I want a floor added that’s for everyone, with a cafeteria and places to just relax.”
“Consider it done.”
“The floor also needs to have a nursing room for mothers.”
“Of course.”
“And a woman’s bathroom, a men's bathroom, and a unisex bathroom needs to be on every floor, including ours.”
“I’ll get them added.”

Y/N’s jaw clenched. It was starting to annoy her how easy Tony was folding. She needed to come up with something that would drive him crazy.

“Your mail has to be handed to you personally if you are in office,” Y/N said. “Not set in a box or on your desk or to Pepper. Handed to you.”
Tony swallowed as he gave a single nod. “Fine.”
“As to where the headquarters will be placed, I do not care. You can make that decision. Just inform me when you have made it so that I can make arrangements to sell Grandmother’s house if needed.”
“Sell Grandmother’s house? You—you’d be okay with that?”
“Yes, to move closer to the new headquarters, I would be fine with it.”
“But it’s—“
“None of your business,” Y/N snapped.
Tony flinched slightly in surprise at her tone. “Yes… you’re right… sorry.”
“If that is all, you may go now. I have things to do.”
“Actually… Pepper wishes for me to talk to you about doing some PR for the merge.”
Y/N sighed, sinking down to her chair. “What does she have in mind?”
“Well,” Tony sat back down too, “she would like us to at least entertain the idea of being interviewed by a magazine or two.”
“I’ll have her and Wanda get in touch and create a list of approved magazines.”
Tony nodded. “She would also like us to do a press conference.” Y/N pursed her lips. “It might be smart to do it as quick as possible before the news gets wind of you having more control than me.”
“Fine. We’ll do one this week. I’ll get Wanda to organize it.”
“Uh, yeah, great. I’ll plan on staying in town then.” Tony waited, wishing that Y/N would offer up his normal room in Grandmother’s house.
“I can get Wanda to hurry and get you a room at a nearby hotel.”
Tony’s heart sunk. “Great.”
“Is that all?”
“Yes, I think so.”
“You’re free to go then.”
Tony stayed still, staring at Y/N as she began to roll the blueprints back up and stuff them in the tube. “I… I…”
Y/N glanced up with a quirked brow. “Yes?”
“We still have food to eat,” he awkwardly responded, lifting up the bag he had brought.
“I’m not hungry. I also have a very busy day ahead,” she handed him the cardboard tube, “so if you could…”
“Yeah, yeah, of course.” Tony stood up, taking the tube from her. “I’ll get out of your way.”

Y/N didn’t respond, ignoring him as she tried to busy herself with something. Tony let out a small sigh as he turned around and headed out of Y/N’s office with the bag of food. He glanced back at her before finally exiting and shutting the door behind him.

“How did it go?” Wanda quickly asked from her spot at her desk.
Tony shook her head. “I had thought I was making progress.”
“It’s going to take time, Mr. Stark.”
“Tony. We’re going to be working closely now, so feel free to call me Tony. And I know it’s going to take time… I just wish it didn’t have to.”
Wanda’s phone beeped before Y/N’s voice came through the speaker. “Wanda, I need you.”
Wanda pressed a button on the phone. “On my way,” she responded. She stood up, grabbing a notebook and pen. “I’ll try to do the best I can to help you, Tony.”
“Why? Why are you not on her side?”
“I am. But I am also on yours. You both have made mistakes, but you also both deeply love each other. And love like that deserves to be fought for.”
“Thank you, Wanda.”
“Of course.” Wanda walked around her desk and over to the office doors. “Feel free to leave the food in the break room, I’ll make sure she eats it.” Then she slipped into Y/N’s office.

Chapter Text

The press conferences and interviews were long and draining for both Y/N and Tony. They had been at it for a week, spending time in front of the cameras and press acting like nothing was wrong and then barely speaking when the world wasn’t watching. They were currently doing what should be their last press conference until the opening of their new office building. Y/N was letting Tony take the lead in answering questions due to the fact that she was just so mentally exhausted.

“Yes, the man with the blue tie,” Tony called out to one of the press.
“There’s been a rumor going around that you, Mr. Stark, and Miss L/N are in a relationship,” the man said. “Are those rumors true?”
Tony glanced at Y/N briefly. She seemed frozen, unable to answer the question. So he did. “Unfortunately, the rumors aren’t true. Y/N and I are not in a relationship. I would be incredibly lucky if I was in a relationship with Y/N.” Y/N inhaled sharply at Tony’s admission. “I’ve known her since we were kids and I can honestly tell you that there are not enough words in any language to fully convey how amazing she is. What I can say is that I know that Y/N will take our newly merged companies in the best direction for everyone involved. Thank you.”

The press clamored as Tony stood up. He took the few steps over to Y/N’s chair and helped her up. He guided her off the stage and behind the curtains. Once they were clear, Y/N immediately pulled away. Tony didn’t even try to hide the hurt that crossed over his features. Wanda and Pepper were waiting for them, their clipboards full of agendas in their arms.

“Are we done?” Y/N asked.
“Yes,” Wanda replied. “But—“ It was too late, Y/N was already gone. She sighed.
“I probably made her attitude worse with my answer to that last question,” Tony said, shaking his head. “I’m never going to make this right, am I?”
“It’s just going to take time. We both know how stubborn Y/N can be.”
“Right… Pepper, how’s the new office going?”
“The crews are ahead of schedule,” Pepper answered. “Still don’t know how I feel about having hired four different construction crews for this.”
“I told you, I want this building being worked on 24/7. I don’t need one more thing for Y/N to be pissed at me about. When do we think the building will be done?”
“Four to six weeks.”
“Great.” He turned to Wanda. “Has Y/N reviewed and approved the interior design options?”
“It’s on the agenda for Monday morning,” Wanda responded. “I’ll have her decisions sent to Pepper as soon as she’s made them.”
“Thank you, both of you. I don’t know what I would be doing without either of you.”

~~~

Y/N had spent the weekend at Grandmother’s house. She knew that she should sell it, she even told Tony that she was planning to. She just didn’t know if she was ready yet. Y/N had grown up there, fell in love with Tony there… she didn’t know if she could actually sell it.

After spending the weekend in her childhood home, Y/N went back to the office on Monday. She was not excited to be back in the office and was still exhausted from all the press last week. Y/N had just sat down at her desk when Wanda entered her office.

“I have your agenda for the day printed out,” Wanda said, setting a page down on Y/N’s desk.
“Thank you, Wanda,” Y/N breathed out.
“First thing on the list is the interior design options that Pepper sent over.”
“Do I really need to do that first? Isn’t there something that’s more pressing?”
“Well, Tony has hired four construction crews to work on the new building so it is ahead of schedule.”
“How ahead?”
“It has a 4 to 6-week estimate.”
“Are you serious?”
“Very.”
“Wait… Tony hired four construction crews for this? Shouldn’t I have had a say or something as CEO?”
“You did. You signed off of it last week after an interview.”
“When I was too tired? Great… I don’t even remember you handing me papers.”
Wanda ignored Y/N’s statement, knowing that she had made Y/N sign those papers when Y/N was too tired on purpose. “The interior design options need to be chosen by tomorrow night so that Pepper can get the orders in.”
“Fine. Alright. I’ll get them done. Anything else for today?”
“Everything else can be pushed.”
“Okay. Thanks, Wanda. I’ll let you know if I need anything.”

Wanda nodded before taking her leave. Y/N sighed and rested her head on her desk.

“I don’t know if I’m prepared for all of this,” she whispered to herself. “This is exhausting.”

~~~

“Hello, Wanda,” Rhodey greeted as he approached her desk. “How are things going today?”
“They’re fine,” she responded. “Y/N’s exhausted. I think it has more to do with the front she’s putting up than anything else.”
“You’re probably right there.” He motioned with his head toward Y/N’s office. “She in there?”
“Hasn’t left all day. Feel free to go in.”
“Thanks.”

Rhodey opens the office door and stands there, observing Y/N. He watches his clearly tired friend move papers around, jot down notes, and let out dramatic sighs.

“You know,” Rhodey begins, immediately startling Y/N, “you probably wouldn’t be this tired if you would stop the fake attitude towards Tony.”
“Shit, Rhodes,” she muttered. “You scared me.” Rhodey shrugged as he came up and sat in the chair in front of Y/N’s desk. “Also, my attitude isn’t fake.”
“It so is. You may be mad at him, but you aren’t the one to usually be this petty.”
“I am not doing that.”
Rhodey scoffed. “How tired you are proves that that is exactly what you are doing! Being mad at Tony is taking all your energy.”
Y/N pursed her lips, looking away from her friend. It was silent for a few moments before Y/N quietly said, “Fine. You’re right.”
“Always am.”
“I don’t want it to be like this, okay? I really don’t. But Tony doesn’t deserve my forgiveness right away. Not after everything he’s put me through.”
“And I get that. But, Y/N, Tony is head over heels for you. Has been for years.”
“He told me he loved me the night of the gala… still doesn’t change what he’s done.”
“I understand not wanting to forgive him immediately, but acting so petty isn’t doing to do anything for you. Tony is willing to do anything to fix this. He willingly gave you majority stake in the company! He’s trying, Y/N. You have to be able to see that… Again, I understand why you don’t want to forgive him easily, but you may need to change the way you’re going about things before you end up doing something that forces Tony away for good.”
“I don’t kn—“
“Tell me, how long do you plan on acting like this?”
“As long as it takes for me to forgive him and for me to feel like he’s learned his lesson.”
“What if that plan is keeping you from forgiving Tony? Ever think about that?” Y/N stayed silent, thinking about what Rhodey had to say. “It’s just something to think about.”
“I will. Thank you for visiting Rhodey. I’d love to chat longer, but I really need to get some work done.”
“Of course.” He stood up. “I’ll talk to you later.”
“Yeah.”

~~~

Y/N took Rhodey’s talk to heart. She realized that she should probably ease up some more on Tony, especially if she ever wanted to start a relationship with him. So the next afternoon, Y/N found herself walking toward Tony’s office with Wanda in tow. She had a brown paper bag in one hand and a file full of papers under her other arm.

“Y/N?” Pepper questioned, clearly caught off guard.
“Hello Pepper,” Y/N smiled. “Is Tony here?”
“Yes, he’s in his office.”
“Perfect.”

Y/N headed for Tony’s office without another glance in either of the assistant’s directions. She knocked as she opened the door. Tony’s head snapped up and his eyes grew wide in surprise at the sight of Y/N walking into his office.

“Y/—Y/N?” He stuttered, standing from his seat.
“Hey, Tony,” she responded with a small smile. “I know this is an unexpected visit…”
“No, no, it’s fine! What can I help you with?”
“I was thinking that we could make the interior design decisions together. Only if you have time for that of course.”
“Yeah, yeah, I’ll get Pepper to clear my schedule.” He hurried around his desk to head toward the door.
“Oh, no! Please don’t. If you have—“
“Nothing on my schedule is more important than this… more important than you…”

That last part was whispered, but Y/N still heard it. She gasped lightly as Tony peaked his head out and told Pepper to clear his schedule. He turned back in and looked around the room.

“How about we head to one of the conference rooms?” Tony suggested. “There’s more light, a larger table to spread out. We can—“
“That sounds good, Tony,” she cut him off.
“Great.” He smiled at her. He opened the office door back up. “After you.” She stepped out of the office with Tony behind her. Tony turned to Wanda and Pepper. “We’ll be in the upstairs conference room if you need us.”

Tony led Y/N to the elevator and up to the conference room. Calling it a conference room was slightly a joke though, in reality, it was the whole floor. Besides the wall that the elevator and restrooms were on, the walls were floor-to-ceiling windows, letting in beautiful views and natural light.

“This is a conference room?” Y/N questioned.
“Well, room is a little nice,” Tony responded. “Calling it the conference floor can feel like a little too much.”
“A little?” She chuckled as she headed towards the large table in the center. She set down the paper bag and file. “I brought food if you haven’t already eaten.”
“I haven’t, thank you.”
“Well,” Y/N reached into the bag and began pulling out containers of food, “I brought a lot. I didn’t know what you would want or what I would want honestly.”
Tony laughed. “Well, we definitely have plenty of food here. Care to get started?”

~~~

Yes, Y/N came in nicer than she had been towards Tony in a while. But she had a reason behind it. She was going to put what Rhodey said about Tony being willing to do anything to fix their relationship to the test. Y/N knew that the interior design of the future office building would be the perfect way to test it.

Y/N started by showing Tony her choices that she knew he would get behind; a clean white, gray, and black color scheme, a very modern and high tech look. Tony agreed with every decision she showed like she knew he would. After many mutually approved decisions, Y/N started to up the crazy.

“Okay, okay, just bear with me on this one, okay?” She warned as she pulled out a few pages from the file she brought. “I was thinking that we can put art pieces like these all around the building.” She handed him pictures of small, metal pieces of art that have constant movement. She watched as Tony’s jaw clenched immediately. “They’re supposed to bring a sense of calm and they really help give a modern look.”
“Mmhmm,” Tony hummed out, unable to verbalize his actual thoughts. “What’s next?”
“Well, I have cool decorations in mind for our floor and offices.”
“Great, let’s see them.”

Tony was trying to be hopeful and get those moving art pieces out of his mind. He really wasn’t a fan of those. He could already see himself focusing solely on their movements in meetings. Tony watched with skeptical eyes as Y/N pulled more papers from her file. He took a sharp inhale as his hands formed into fists at the sight of the next idea. The decorations were brightly colored, the colors not even working together. His eyes skimmed over the description of the pieces to see that they lit up and made noise.

“What do you think?” Y/N asked.

Tony looked up at Y/N to see her eyes shining with hopefulness. She was biting down on her bottom lip. He had to restrain himself from bringing his thumb up to run along her lip.

What he didn’t know was that Y/N was biting her lip to keep herself from laughing. She absolutely hated the decorations she had just shown Tony and she could tell that he did too.

“I think… I think that those are definitely options,” Tony said through his fake smile.
“Yeah?” Y/N continued to press, enjoying this too much. “Great! Cause I think they would be great with the purple color I chose for office walls!”
Tony choked on his own air. “Wh—what? Did you just say purple?”
“Yes! I have three shades I’m debating between.”

Y/N pulled out three swatches of purple paint samples. Tony felt like he might puke. Is this the person that was really going to run two major companies?

“This shade would look great with the live koi pond I’ve asked to be put in your office!” Y/N continued. “I’ve already ordered the koi, which are so expensive but I—“
“Enough!” Tony yelled, pushing himself to stand. “I just— I— How are you making these choices? That purple! No one would ever choose that purple! Those ‘modern art pieces’,” he did art quotes around those words, “they shouldn’t be allowed anywhere! None of them! The movement ones, the bright, noisy ones. All of it!” Y/N began laughing. “Have you gone crazy?! I didn’t realize that you’d lost your mind. Do I have to be worried about the company now? Do you— wait. Are you laughing?”
“Uh, yes,” Y/N laughed.
“Wait… was this all a joke?” Y/N just nods, unable to stop laughing. “Oh, you little—“
“Uh, uh, uh,” she shakes her head and finger. “Don’t even. You know it was a good one.”
Tony let out a laugh as he sat back in his chair. “Yes, it was.”
Y/N turned and pulled out a stack of stapled papers from her file. “This is a plan I know you’ll approve of.”
Tony took the papers. “We’ll see about that.”

~~~

Pepper and Wanda were using the security system to watch and listen in.

“Remind me to call Rhodey and thank him for whatever he said to Y/N,” Pepper said.
“Oh, I’ve already texted him,” Wanda replied. “He says we owe him a fancy dinner.”
“I think we can do that.”

Chapter Text

As the weeks passed and the new company building was completed, Tony and Y/N grew closer. They texted more often, met up for lunch at least once a week, and began working as a team to create a new future for the newly merged companies. It was nice, finally spending positive time together.

To celebrate the building being finished, Tony and Y/N decided to host another gala. It would be hosted at their new building and offer tours of the completely furnished place. Of course, Pepper and Wanda did most of the planning and prep with some help from Y/N and very little from Tony. Y/N was working on some last-minute gala preparations with Wanda as well as finishing up packing her office for the move.

“Thanks again Wanda for all your help,” Y/N said as she placed one of her desk decorations in a box. “I really don’t know what I would do without you.”
“Well, it is kind of my job,” Wanda teased.
“Yes, but you don’t have to go above and beyond as you do. Besides, I can be a lot to handle, especially lately with Tony.”
“You’re easy to handle. It’s Tony who’s hard. I better get used to it though since I will be working with him a lot more.”
“You and me both.”
“It does seem like you two are getting along a lot better.”
“Yeah.” Y/N nodded. “We are. It’s… it’s nice. Like… the good ole days.”
“Are you two going to the gala together?”
“I don’t know.” Y/N shrugged. “He hasn’t asked me and, honestly, after last time, I don’t blame him.”
“Do you hope he asks you?”
“Wanda.”
The woman held her hands up. “I’m just wondering. I know that you still feel strongly for him and I think it would be good for you two to finally have a positive outing.”
“Yes, well, maybe the gala shouldn’t be that. It’s so… public. And I would like something a little bit more private.”
“But if Tony asked you, you would say yes, right?”
Y/N sighed. “Yes, Wanda, if Tony asked, I would say yes. But don’t you dare go trying to manipulate him into doing it! If he wants to ask me, let him do it on his own. Alright?”
“But—“
“No, Wanda. On his own. No Rhodey, no Pepper, no anyone. Let Tony make his own decisions.”
“Fine.”

~~~

“Are you sure you don’t want to ask Y/N to be your date?” Pepper asked as she and Tony walked around their offices one last time. “I’m sure she would say yes.”
“Are you so sure about that?” Tony countered. “Last time I asked her to a gala, my secret came out, I confessed my love to her, and she ran away.”
“You don’t have a secret now, do you?”
“No.” Tony shook his head. “Trust me, I’ve learned my lesson.”
“Then just ask her.”
“No. It’s fine. We’ll just… meet up at the gala and I’ll just pray that she doesn’t come with anyone.”

Pepper sighed and shook her head, focusing back on what she was doing. After a few silent moments, Tony spoke up again.

“Do you happen to know the color of her dress?”

~~~

The press line seemed lonelier than usual for Tony. Usually, Tony would enjoy all the attention on him but tonight he couldn’t help but remember what it was like to guide Y/N down the press line at that last gala. To have her close, to protect her, that’s all he really wanted. After finishing the press line, Tony headed inside to see Wanda and Pepper near the entrance. He went over to them.

“Good evening ladies,” he greeted. “Has Y/N arrived?”
“Not yet,” Pepper responded.
Tony nodded, glancing around a bit before looking back at the ladies. “Is, uh… is Y/N coming with a date?”
“No,” Wanda answered. “I think she was hoping you would ask her.”

Tony's chest flooded with both hope and guilt. Yes, he should have just asked Y/N to be his date, but he had a chance to make things right once she arrived.

“Hey, guys!” Rhodey said, walking up to the three of them with Steve and Natasha.
“Rhodey,” Tony shook his friend's hand. “Thanks for coming.”
“Of course. I’m just hoping that this gala doesn’t end up being like the last one.”
“Right.” Tony pressed out an unimpressed smile. “I can promise that I’ll be fine on my end. We’ll see what happens with Y/N gets here.”
“Oh, we’re pretty sure that we saw her in her car outside,” Steve said.
“Just sitting in her car?”
“Yeah,” Natasha confirmed. “We had to be dropped off behind it.”
“She must be struggling to get out and do the press line. I’m going to go help her.” Tony rushed off.
“He’s so in love, it’s making me sick.”

~~~

Y/N was sitting in the back of her car, nervously wringing her hands together. She watched through the small gap of her open window as the gala guests walked the red carpet, press line with no problem. She wished that she wasn’t so nervous about it.

Bucky, running late, arrived at the gala alone. Before he could hit the press line, his eye caught sight of Y/N sitting in her car. He could tell that she was nervous and alone. Bucky jogged over to the car.

“Hi,” he greeted with a smile.
“Bucky, hi,” Y/N responded.
“What ya doing out here for? Isn’t your party inside?”
“Yeah, I… I just… the press line scares me. I know it sounds stupid.”
Bucky shook his head. “It’s not stupid.” His hand found the door handle. “May I?” Y/N nodded. Bucky opened the door all the way before holding a hand out to Y/N. “My lady.”

Y/N giggled as she set her hand in his and allowed him to help her out of the car. He led her arm through his and headed towards the press line.

“Don’t be scared,” Bucky whispered. “I’ll be right here the whole time.”

Y/N nodded. She appreciated that Bucky was willing to help her, but it didn’t feel right. Tony should be the one helping her down the line. Tony should be the one at her side, whispering in her ear to help her. As they neared the end of the line, Y/N glanced towards the building’s doors to see Tony glaring at her and Bucky briefly before turning around and marching inside.

“Shit,” Y/N muttered.
“Huh?” Bucky said, not hearing Y/N.
“Oh, nothing.” The two finished the press line and headed for the doors. “Thank you for helping me, Bucky.” Y/N pulled her arm from his as they entered the building.
“Anytime.” He leaned over and kissed Y/N’s cheek. “See you around.”

Y/N caught Tony’s eye, who clearly had just seen the exchange. Her eyes found his tie, noticing how it matched her dress. She went to walk toward him, but he walked away and disappeared into the crowd. Y/N sighed and looked around, quickly finding Wanda.

“Did you come here with Bucky?” Wanda asked as soon as Y/N was near.
“No,” Y/N shook her head. “He was just helping me inside.”
“Okay,” Wanda nodded. It was clear that Y/N arriving with Bucky was worrying Wanda.
“Wanda, you can be honest with me.”
Wanda sighed. “I just… you and Tony should have come together. Yes, he should have asked you but you could’ve also asked him.”
“I—“
“I’m not done. You two have this long and complicated history that keeps pulling you two apart, but then you always end up finding your way back to each other. And I fully believe—and I can guarantee that I’m not the only one—that you and Tony are meant to be.” Y/N stayed silent. “Just, answer this for me, do you love him?”
“Yes. I do.”
“Then let yourself love him and be loved by him. Stop getting in the way of your own happiness.”
“I… I’m going to go make my rounds.”

Y/N rushed off, Wanda’s words echoing in her head. Y/N tried to ignore what Wanda had said as she walked around talking to guests. She could feel eyes watching her as she moved around the room. Every time she turned to find who was looking at her, Tony would quickly look away from her and focus back on whomever he was talking to.

After about an hour of walking around, Y/N finally found her way to Tony. As she grew closer, she could hear him blatantly flirting with the woman he was with. She bit her tongue as she forced a smile upon her face.

“Hello,” Y/N greeted.
“Oh, Miss L/N!” The woman responded. “Thank you for hosting this gala.”
“You’re welcome but—“
“It was all my idea,” Tony interrupted. “I really just thought that it would be a good idea to get a bunch of beautiful women together for the night.”
“Oh, Tony,” the woman scoffed, blushing profusely. Y/N pursed her lips, trying not to explode. “You’re such a charmer.” The woman turned to Y/N. “How can you handle working so close to him? I don’t think I could without ripping off his clothes in every meeting.”

Tony’s smile grew in such a cocky measure and Y/N huffed, trying to plaster a genuine smile on her face.

“Oh it’s hard,” Y/N responded. “It’s really hard not to just put my hands around his neck and choke him out as he begs.” Tony coughed as he took a drink of his bourbon.
“Oh,” the woman gasped in surprise, the rising tension clear to her. “Uh, well, I—“
“Y/N! Tony!” Pepper called as she and Wanda rushed up to them. “It’s time for your speech.”
“Right,” Y/N replied with a nod. “We’ll be right there.” Pepper and Wanda walked to the stage.
“I’m sorry that I have to go now,” Tony told the woman. He took her hand and brought it to his lips for a kiss. “I’ll see you around.”

Tony winked at the woman before heading toward the stage. Y/N huffed, clenching her jaw as she walked Tony walk away. It took her too long to follow after Tony, trying to process what had just happened. As soon as Y/N had caught up with Tony backstage, the pair was being pushed out to the stage by their assistants. The crowd of guests applauded as the two walked out. Y/N smiled kindly as Tony rose his hands and motioned for more, louder applause.

“Thank you, thank you,” Tony said, signaling for the crowd to stop. “We would both like to thank you for coming.”
“We appreciate all the support as we move forward with the merge of our two companies,” Y/N said. “I know that merging two of the world’s largest corporations can seem to be a money grab.”
“No shit,” Tony muttered through a fake cough, causing the crowd to laugh.
Y/N let out a fake chuckle before continuing, “But we are here to show you that merging our two companies are more than just a money grab. Together, our companies will be able to help people in more ways than we could do by ourselves.”
“For starters, this gala was put together to show off our building.”
Y/N shot a glare Tony’s way. “This gala was put together to not only show our building to the public but to raise money for one of the first of many foundations that the L/N-Stark Industries will be founding.”
“This first foundation is named the September Foundation, in honor of my late mother, Maria Stark.”
“This foundation will provide scholarships to students and other funding to help improve education in preschools, K through 12 schools, colleges, and universities.” Y/N took a deep breath, trying to reign in some of her emotions. “The September Foundation is not just in honor of Maria Stark, but of Howard Stark and my Grandmother as well. Tony and I believe that it’s what they would have wanted and would have been proud of it.”
“Howard though would really just have wanted to continue this party. Right?” The crowd clapped. Y/N stared at Tony in utter disbelief. “Thank you everyone for coming out tonight! Keep enjoying the night and keep donating!”

The crowd claps and cheers as Tony heads backstage. Y/N is frozen on the stage for a bit, in shock over what had just happened. Eventually, Y/N marched off to follow after Tony.

“Tony!” She yelled, seeing him slip into the back hall. “Tony!” He ignored her but that didn’t stop her from continuing to follow after him. “What is your problem, Stark?! I was trying to show everyone that this new partnership is more about giving back than a money grab and all you care about is throwing a damn party?! What the hell?!”
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Tony spun around to face Y/N. “Did that hurt your feelings?”
“Yeah, it did.”
“Well, you showing up with Barnes hurt mine!”
“What?! I didn’t show up with Bucky! I was having a hard time getting out of the car because of the press line and Bucky noticed. So he came to help me.”
“Oh, just the knight in shining armor he is, isn’t he?”
“Oh my gosh! You can’t be serious?!”
“About as serious as you wanting to wrap your hands around my neck and choke me out.”
“You were blatantly flirting in front of me!”
“You arrived on the arm of another man!”
“You didn’t ask me to me your date!”
“Why the hell do you care?!”
“BECAUSE I LOVE YOU DAMN IT!”

Tony’s eyes grew wide in surprise for a brief second before he took advantage of the situation, not allowing Y/N to register what she had just said. His hand grabbed her wrist and yanked her into him. His arm moved around her waist as his other hand went to the back of Y/N’s neck and he pulled her into a kiss. It took a few seconds for Y/N to realize what was going on. But once she did, her hands were gripping the lapels of Tony’s jacket, holding him to her.

Y/N let Tony take control of the situation, his tongue dominating her mouth. She let out a moan and Tony tried not to smirk at that wonderful sound. Still kissing, Tony pushed Y/N back against the wall. His hands moved to the back of her thighs and hoisted her up against the wall and forced her legs around his waist.

“I... love… you… too…” Tony breathed out between kisses.
“Yeah?” Y/N whispered softly, causing Tony to pull back enough to look her in the eye.
“Yeah… like I’ve said before, I’ve loved you forever and will continue to do so.”
“Me too.”
Tony kissed her again. “Wanna get out of here?”
“Please.” Y/N gasped as Tony quickly had her in the bridal style hold. “Tony! Let me down, I can walk.”
“Oh, no. I’m not letting you go for a long time.”

Chapter Text

Happy drove Y/N and Tony to Tony’s new penthouse near the new office building. The whole time, Tony was holding Y/N in his lap. They made out until they arrived and Tony carried Y/N to his private elevator. Once the elevator doors were closed, Tony had Y/N pinned to the wall as they both desperately tried to feel every inch of each other.

Tony worshiped Y/N that night, refusing to let her do anything to him. All he needed was her and he was going to show that. After they were done and cleaned up, Y/N fell asleep curled into Tony. Tony, on the other hand, couldn’t get himself to fall asleep. His hands keep tracing over Y/N’s body, trying to believe that she was there. That she was with him.

When morning came, Tony kissed Y/N’s head and carefully slipped out of bed. After pulling on some sweats, he went to his kitchen and began to try to put together breakfast. Tony was never the best book, and he knew that, but he wanted to try for her.

Y/N’s eyes were still closed as she tried to reach over and cling herself to Tony. But, as she reached, her arm only found bedding. Slowly, her eyes squinted open to see that Tony, was in fact, not there. Her body sagged further into the bed. Y/N reprimanded herself for immediately thinking that she was just another one of the girls Tony brought home. Of course, she wasn’t just one of the girls, she was more than that to Tony.

Sighing, Y/N propped herself up with some pillows. The bedding on top of her slid down to remind her that she was naked. With her dress having been left on the elevator, Y/N got up and walked into Tony’s closet. She smiled softly at the line of band tees she found in the front. Grabbing one, she slipped it over her head.

“Holy shit,” she heard Tony gasp. She spun around to see him gapping at her, holding a tray of food. “You… I…”

Tony ground his teeth together as he groaned, eyes raking up her form. Y/N blushed as she looked down at her feet. Tony quickly set the tray down on the bed and came over to her. His hands gently found her face and guided her to look at him.

“You are… the most gorgeous woman I have ever seen,” he whispered.
“Tony,” she giggled.
“I’m serious...” His thumbs gently caressed her cheeks. “Waking up to this… mornings with you… it’s all I ever wanted and more.”
Y/N gripped onto Tony’s wrists as she smiled at him. “Really?”
“Really.” He leaned in and kissed her softly. “I love you.”
“I love you too.” Tony kissed her again after her response, tugging at her lip when he pulled away. “That tray you had in your hands, did you make me breakfast?”
“I tried. I don’t know how edible it is so maybe you sh—“
Y/N cut off Tony’s rambling with a kiss. “Thank you.”

Y/N walked over to the bed and crawled onto it so that she was sitting, with her legs underneath her, in front of the tray. Tony watched her with a lovesick grin on his face. Y/N took a bite of the meal, slowly chewing it. Tony grimaced as Y/N choked a little and began coughing. She reached for the drink on the tray as Tony nervously came closer.

“It’s bad, isn’t it?” Tony wondered. “I should have just had Happy run and grab something.”
Y/N looked up at Tony with a small smile. “It was a nice try.”
“Do you want to go out for breakfast? Yeah, we should go out to breakfast.”
“Tony.”
“I’ll have Happy pull the car around. You can wear a pair of my sweatpants. Oh gosh, I love that too much.”
“Tony.” Y/N grabbed his wrist to catch his attention. “It’s okay. I don’t need breakfast anyway.” She straightened up to get closer to his face.
“Are you sure? Cause I—“
“I just need you, Tony,” she whispered, breath fanning over his lips. “Besides,” she leaned in closer to one of his ears, making sure her lips brushed against it, “the only clothing on my body is your shirt.” Tony’s breath hitched. Y/N’s hands glided over Tony’s bare chest. “And I want to show you a trick or two.”

~~~

“Have you heard from Tony since he and Y/N disappeared in the middle of the gala?” Wanda asked as she and Pepper headed towards the private elevator in the new office building.
“No,” Pepper answered with a shake of her head. “Y/N?”
“Nothing from her either.” The two entered the elevator and it started moving up. “Do you think we should be worried?”
“As long as there was no massive blowup, we’ll be fine.”

The elevator opened and the two women headed over to their new offices. It was about an hour before they heard the elevator open again. Both Wanda and Pepper excited their offices to see Y/N and Tony walk out, hand in hand. They gasped, glancing at each other before looking back at the pair. The pair walked over to Y/N’s office where they stopped in front of the door and kissed, causing their assistants to let out another quiet gasp.

“My beautiful CEO,” Tony whispered before kissing Y/N again. “Don’t work too hard today.”
Y/N grinned. “I’ll try hard not to. You still good for lunch?”
“Yes. I’ll pick it up, don’t worry about it.” He pecked her lips. “Love you.”
“Love you too.”

Y/N was the one to turn away and enter her office. She shut the door behind her, leaving Tony to watch her through the frosted windows of her office. Pepper and Wanda quietly walked over, cocky smirks spread across their lips.

“So… how was your weekend, Mr. Stark?” Wanda wondered.
Tony cleared his throat before turning to face the assistants. “It was good,” he answered.
“Just good?” Pepper pressed, teasingly.
Tony headed for his own office across the floor. “Yes, good.”
“And you and Y/N walking in holding hands is just good?”
“Fine!” Tony exclaimed, sitting down in his desk chair. “You want to hear the truth? It was amazing. The best weekend of my life. I’ve literally never regretted every stupid decision that’s kept me away from her more in my life… She’s… she’s it for me.” Tony looked out to Y/N’s office, lovesick and dazed.
“Yay!” Wanda exclaimed, giddily.
“We’re happy for you, Tony,” Pepper said.
“Thank you, but this can’t get around, alright?” Tony said, pointing a finger at the two women. “We want to take this slow, without the pressure of the press. Or even the pressure of our friends.”
“The press is no problem, we can keep it away. Your friends? That might be a different story.”
“I don’t want to ruin this, okay? I can’t ruin this.”
“We understand, Tony,” Wanda responded, unable to stop smiling. “We’re just so happy for the two of you!”
“Me too,” Tony smiled. “Me too.”

~~~

Y/N felt like she was drowning in paperwork. Wanda and Pepper had been in and out of her office all morning with files and requests that needed to get done. They tried to comfort her by saying it was like this only because the merge was new, that it would all die down. But all Y/N could see was the list of things we needed to get done that just kept growing. She was in the middle of reading an email when a knock sounded at her office door.

“Come in!” She called loudly, still focused on the computer.

Tony walked in, closed the door, and came to sit in one of the chairs in front of her desk. He set a bag of takeout on the desk.

“Time to eat, honey,” Tony said as he got the food out.
“Almost done with this email,” she muttered.
“That email’s not going anywhere. Eat.”
Y/N glanced in Tony’s direction to see that he wasn’t going to take no for an answer. “Fine.” She turned the computer monitor off and focused on Tony.
“How’s everything going?” Tony asked as he handed her some food.
“Honestly… it’s a lot. But nothing I can’t handle.”
“It will slow down. It’s only day one.”
“That’s what Wanda and Pepper keep saying.”

The two fell silent for a few moments as they ate.

“You know that I’m proud of you, right?” Tony broke the silence.
Y/N’s face softened as she looked at Tony. “You are?”
“How could I not be?” Tony’s eyes were full of love and sincerity. Y/N blushed and looked down. “I’d be even more proud of you if you would eat some more.”
Y/N laughed. “I am eating.”
“Yes, but not enough. Come on,” Tony stood up and leaned over the desk, offering his full fork to her. “Eat.” Y/N tried not to smile as she opened her mouth and let Tony feed her. “Very good.”
“I can feed myself, you know.”
“Oh, I know.” He moved the chair around to sit next to Y/N. “But this way I can make sure you get enough to eat.”
Y/N rolled her eyes and leaned in for a kiss. “You’re crazy.”
“I believe it’s called love, sweetheart.”

~~~

After making sure Y/N ate enough for his liking, Tony left her alone, going back to his office. While Y/N had immediately gone back to work, Tony sat at his desk trying to come up with the perfect date idea for the upcoming weekend. He wanted to take her out, but somewhere private. An idea was slowly forming, he just needed to make sure of a few things.

Lover Boy: Have you sold Grandmother’s house yet?

My Future Wife: You really can’t walk across the floor to ask this?

Lover Boy: Just answer the question.

My Future Wife: No. I’m not going to sell it anymore, can’t bear to.

My Future Wife: Why?

Lover Boy: Oh, nothing.

My Future Wife: Tony.

Lover Boy: Go back to work, honey. I’m going home early. Don’t worry. Happy will take you back to my place.

Lover Boy: Of course, if that’s what you want. You can obviously go back to your place.

My Future Wife: I need some more clothes. I’ll have Happy swing by my new place and then I’ll come to yours.

Lover Boy: Alright, I’ll see you tonight. Love you.

My Future Wife: Love you.

Chapter Text

“I stole some of the drawers in your dresser so that I can keep a few things here,” Y/N told Tony as she walked into his office at the penthouse. He was quick to turn off his technology. Y/N furrowed her brows. “What are you doing?”
“Nothing,” Tony replied a bit too quickly.
Y/N rose a brow at him. “You wanna try that again?”
“I—it was—I promise—“ Tony sighed. “It’s a surprise.”
“A surprise? For who?”
Tony closed his eyes and ran a hand down his face. “For you,” he grumbled.
“Oh… is it a good surprise because the last few surprises weren’t all that grand.” Tony’s face paled, embarrassed and guilt-ridden. “I’m just teasing you, Tony. I’m sure that it will be a wonderful surprise.” She came over, sat in his lap, and kissed him.
Tony smirked once they separated. “How was your first official day?”
“It was good. Got a lot of work done, had a handsome lunch date.”
Tony chuckled. “I’m glad it was good for you, honey.” He pecked her lips. “What are you doing this weekend?”
“Uh, nothing at the moment.”
“Good, your weekend’s all mine.”
She smiled. “I’m okay with that.”

~~~

Tony and Y/N were laughing at something Tony said when they walked out of the elevator, hand-in-hand. They haunted at the sight of Rhodey standing there with his arms folded, looking like a parent ready to reprimand his children.

“Anyone want to explain what’s going on here?” He questioned.
“Uh, well, I—we, uh—“
Y/N cut Tony off, “We yelled at each other at the gala until we confessed our love for each other.”
“So you two are together?” Rhodey asked, straight-faced.
“That’s basically what she said,” Tony retorted. “Were you not listening? Yes, we are together. Can’t you see this?” He raised his and Y/N’s hands that were intertwined. “Do you think I just waltz into work with any girl holding my hand? No! So obviously we’re together.”
“Finally!” Rhodey began laughing. “I was just trying to get you to say it out loud, calm down. I’m just happy you two have gotten together.”
“Thanks, Rhodey,” Y/N said. “Sorry, you’ve had to put up with our dumbasses for so long.”
“What are friends for?”
Y/N faced Tony. “I’ve got a lot to do day so I’ll see you tonight. We’re leaving together, right?”
“Of course.” Tony kissed her softly. “I love you.”
“Love you too.” She gave one last peck before going to her office.

Tony watched with large heart eyes as Y/N disappeared into her office. When he finally broke the spell, he noticed Rhodey smirking at him.

“Let me alone,” Tony grumbled, going to his own office.
“I deserve a medal,” Rhodey said to himself. “Something big and flashy that just says to the world that I brought my two best friends together.”

~~~

The rest of the week was full of long days, but thankfully Tony and Y/N were able to go home together every night. Friday rolled around and Y/N was excited to have a break for a few days. It was early in the afternoon when her phone buzzed.

Lover Boy: I have to run a few errands so I’m heading out now. Date night is still on tonight. I’ll pick you up from your place.

Lover Boy: Love you

Y/N responded before getting back to work. The rest of the day it was harder to focus. She was constantly getting distracted by thoughts and questions about what Tony could be planning for the date night.

Happy was the one to take Y/N back to her own apartment. She had barely spent any time there, so it felt weird being there. It didn’t feel like home. Tony’s apartment on the other hand, that felt like home. Or, was it just Tony who felt like home? There was no Tony in this apartment. But there were pieces of Tony everywhere else that she had lived and those places felt like home.

Y/N bit back a smile at the thought of Tony being her home as she cleaned herself up and changed into a dress for the night. She was just finishing up when someone knocked at the door. Y/N walked over and checked through the peephole. A smile grew across her face at the sight of Tony loosening the top of his tie nervously as he held a small bouquet of flowers. Y/N was still smiling as she opened the door.

“Hello,” she greeted.
“Hi,” Tony breathed out, both nervous and in awe at the sight of Y/N. He was never going to get over her beauty, no matter what she was wearing. “These are for you.” He handed the flowers over.
“Thank you. Just give me a second to put them in a vase and then I’ll be ready to go.”

Tony nodded as Y/N disappeared into the apartment. She quickly found a vase for the flowers and was back at the door.

“Ready?” She questioned as she shut the door.
“As long as you’re with me,” he responded, holding out his arm for her to take.

Y/N gave him a soft smile, slipping her arm through his. Tony guided her to the car, opening the door and helping her in before running around to the driver's side.

“Where are you taking me?” She asked.
“Somewhere nice, since it is our first official date,” Tony replied.
Y/N noticed how Tony’s thumbs were tapping against the steering wheel. “You nervous?”
“Nervous,” Tony scoffed. “Me? Never.”
Y/N rolled her eyes and leaned over to kiss his cheek. “Nice try. It was cute.”
Tony pouted slightly. “I’m not cute,” he grumbled.
“Sorry, you’re adorable,” she teased.
Tony threw a playful glare Y/N’s way as she laughed. “You’re lucky I love you.”
“I’m lucky? Uh, no. You are lucky that I love you. Especially after all the shit you’ve pulled.”
“Right, right, sorry… you aren’t…” Tony nervously cleared his throat. “Are you still mad at me?”
“No, no,” Y/N shook her head, setting a hand on Tony’s leg. “I’m sorry. I’m not still mad. I shouldn’t have brought it up. I’m sorry.”

Tony let go of the wheel with one hand, gently took the hand Y/N had on his leg and brought it up to his lips for a kiss. Y/N sucked her lips in, loving how caring Tony was. He didn’t let go of her hand when he brought it back down to his leg. They stayed like that until they got to the restaurant. Tony parked the car before rushing around to open Y/N’s door and help her out. He led Y/N into the restaurant where they were immediately guided to a small, secluded corner.

“Tony,” she playfully scolded as he helped her sit down and push in her chair. “We didn’t need this privacy.”
“I know,” he replied while sitting down himself. “I just wanted the best for you.”

The two of them chatted as they ordered food, waited for it, and then while they were eating. They talked about the good ole days, Rhodey, work, basically anything and everything that came to mind. The two were then waiting for their desserts to come out. Tony was growing more nervous, his leg bouncing underneath the table, but Y/N didn’t seem to notice.

“Pepper thinks we should through more galas,” Y/N stated. “I told her maybe semi-annually because I don’t think that I can handle more than twice a year. I—“
“Move in with me,” Tony blurted. Y/N paused her talking to look at Tony with wide eyes. “Please—uh, shit, I’m screwing this up.”

A waiter came over and placed a covered plate in between the couple before lifting it off. Y/N gasped upon seeing a key sitting on top of the dessert.

“Y/N, will you move in with me?” Tony asked. “I know that this seems fast, that we’ve only been together officially for a short time. We basically already live together. It would be—“
“Yes,” she breathed out.
“—very easy— wait… did you just say—“
“Yes.” She smiled at him, slowly coming around to sit herself in his lap. “Yes, I will move in with you.”
“Thank goodness.” He leaned in for a kiss. Y/N smiled as they kissed. “I was so scared that you wouldn’t say yes.”
“You were?”
“Yeah… so scared I kind of did something stupid.”
Y/N pulled away slightly. “What did you do?”
“Well, first of all, that key is a fake. You don’t actually need a key to get into the penthouse. The technology I have—“
“Tony… I’m not going to leave you. Tell me.”
“Happy, Wanda, and Pepper were tasked with packing up your new apartment and bringing all your things over to the penthouse while on this date.”
“What?” She chuckled. “What would you have done if I said no?”
“Honestly, probably gotten on my knees and begged you to move in with me. Promised you the world, your own room, anything. I just want you close. Is that so terrible of me?”
“No, no it’s not.” She nuzzled her face into his neck. “I just want to be close to you too.”

To anyone else, it might have looked strange to see two people holding each other close in a small corner of a restaurant. But to Tony and Y/N, it was honestly one of the most intimate moments they had ever had.

“I love you, Anthony,” Y/N whispered, unmoving.
Tony kissed the side of her face. “I love you more.”

Chapter Text

“Tony!” Pepper called, hurrying into her boss’ office.
By the tone of her voice, Tony knew that something was wrong. “What is it, Pep?” He asked.
“This.”

Pepper slammed a picture down on his desk. He carefully picked it up, examining it. The picture was taken outside, looking into the building. It was of Tony and Y/N smiling as they went in for a kiss.

“The magazines and news stations are planning on running it in the morning,” Pepper explained.
“Has Y/N seen this?” Tony asked.
“Not yet. I wanted to bring it to you first.”
“Good. Let’s start calling and reaching out to those who are planning on running the picture. Do everything you can to stop them from going public with this. If you need to, get Wanda in on this. I will tell Y/N tonight when she comes back from the board meeting. Hopefully, I don’t have to tell her that our secret’s out.”
“On it, boss.”

~~~

Y/N was incredibly tired, leaning against the wall of the elevator as she took her shoes off. All she longed to do was get in bed and snuggle next to Tony. It was late but Y/N knew that Tony would still be up. He had an even harder time than she did sleeping without the other. The elevator to the penthouse opened and she trudged out. Tony immediately jumped up from where he had been sitting on the couch. A nervous smile formed on his face and Y/N immediately knew something was up. She stopped and stared suspiciously.

“What did you do?” Y/N questioned.
“Hey, honey,” he ignored the question, continuing to come up to her. “How was the meeting? Did anyone annoy you?”
“Tony.” He went in for a kiss and she dodged it. “What happened?”
He sighed, placing his hands on her upper arms and rubbing them up and down nervously. “The press got a picture of us kissing the other day.”
“What?”
“Pepper and I did everything we could but…”
“But they’re running the story in the papers tomorrow.”
“Yes.” Tony’s hands slipped down to grasp Y/N’s hands. “I’m so, so, so very sorry. I really did try and know that you struggle with the press. Please know that I will do everything I can to protect you.”
“I know,” she breathed out. “I just… I liked this little bubble we’ve been living in.”
“Me too.” Tony’s head moved to rest his forehead against hers. “The last few months have been a dream. I’m honestly surprised that we’ve been able to keep it a secret for this long.”
“Same… As soon as the news is out, there’s going to be press outside of the work building. Maybe even this building.”
“Which is why we’re talking the rest of the week off.”
“But—“
“Pepper’s already cleared your schedule and the bags are packed. We’re heading to Grandmother’s house tonight. With the gates and fence there, it’s easier to hide.”
“So we’re just running and hiding?”
“For now. We’ll answer their questions next week. Pepper is already getting an interview with a news station. This week is for us to spend time together and help you prepare for this.”
Y/N moved in for a loving kiss. “As long as you’re by my side, I’m prepared for anything.”

~~~

Years passed, with Y/N and Tony as a couple living together and working together. Though Y/N owned 51% of the company, they tried their best to be equal partners. The past was behind them and they were going to head into the future, hand in hand.

“So… have you guys been talking about marriage?” Wanda asked as she sat in a plane with Y/N. They were coming back from a big conference.
“Wanda,” Y/N said.
“It’s a valid question. The two of you have officially been together for almost six years and you don’t even have a ring on your finger yet.”
“It’s complicated.”
“It’s not complicated, Y/N. Do you want to marry Tony?”
“Yes, of course, I do.”
“Then why aren’t you two engaged?”
“Honestly…” she sighed. “I don’t know. We’ve talked about marriage here and there but not in deep conversations. I just… I don’t want to ruin what we have. Losing him again… I think it really could kill me. I love him too much to live without him again.”

~~~

Rhodey was watching as Tony paced, waiting for Y/N’s plan to land. He noticed how his old friend kept playing with something in one of his pant pockets.

“How long have you had that ring on you?” Rhodey asked, causing Tony to suddenly halt.
“What?” Tony questioned.
“You heard me. How long have you had that ring on you?”
“I don’t— there’s no—“ Rhodey gave Tony a look, causing him to sigh. “Fine.” He pulled out two old rings. “This one Grandmother’s.” He put one in front of the other. “She sent it to me a few weeks before she died like she knew she wasn’t going to be here much longer.” Tony took a shaky breath as he put the other right in front. “This one is my mother’s. I snuck it off her hand before they closed the caskets. When we were younger, Y/N would tell my mother how much she loved it. So I couldn’t let it go six feet under.”
“So have you been carrying it around with you for that long?”
“My mother’s ring has been in my pocket every day since I took it. Grandmother’s ring has been with me since it arrived in the mail.”
“Why haven’t you asked her yet?”
“Because it needs to be right. It needs to be perfect. I only have one shot at this, so I can’t afford to mess it up.”
Rhodey shook his head. “You’re ridiculous. All she wants is to be with you. Does it matter how you propose?”
“I think—“ Tony immediately noticed the plane land on the private airstrip. “She’s home.”

Rhodey chuckled as he watched Tony rush out of the building and onto the airstrip. Tony was so in love with Y/N, that it warmed Rhodey’s heart. They deserved each other and he only wished that they would get married and have children. Rhodey wanted to be an uncle.

Y/N was out of the plane first, carefully coming down the steps. She was barely on the ground before Tony was lifting her up and spinning her around.

“Tony!” She laughed.
“I missed you so much!” He said, setting her down and kissing her. “So much.”
“I was only gone for a few days.”
“Still. Nothing’s the same without you.” Y/N smiled, giving Tony another peck on the lips. “How was the conference?” Tony placed his arm around her waist and began guiding her toward the building.
“It was good.”
“Y/N did great,” Wanda added.
“Of course she did,” Tony said, pressing a kiss to Y/N’s temple. “She always does.”
“Rhodey!” Y/N called when she saw him. She quickly went in for a hug. “What are you doing here?”
“Tony called me a few hours after you left,” Rhodey responded. “The guy can’t handle being alone, especially without you, for very long.”
“Well, thank you for taking care of him.”
“I can too be alone,” Tony grumbled, following behind them. “I just don’t want to.”

~~~

Tony celebrated Y/N’s return with a fancy dinner and then a night where he was unable to keep his hands off of her. He barely slept after their fun, his mind running a thousand miles per minute. So he opted for watching her lovingly instead.

Tony so desperately wanted Y/N to be his wife. Not that marriage was the end all be all, he just wanted to show the world how lucky he was. Tony wanted everyone to know that Y/N was his and how much he loved her. But, the need to make sure that his proposal was perfect was stopping him from actually doing it. Rhodey was right, Tony just needed to propose. Y/N, hopefully, was going to say yes no matter how it was done.

Pulling Y/N’s naked body closer, Tony kissed her bare shoulder. He held his lips there, just simply feeling her. Even after all these years, he still struggled to believe that Y/N was with him. Y/N moaned as she snuggled into Tony. A soft smile pulled at his lips. His mind was finally made up. He was going to propose and he was going to do it this weekend.

~~~

“I’m still not understanding, why do you need the rest of the week off?” Y/N asked as the two-headed into work together.
“Rhodey invited me to go to the base,” Tony lied. “And I decided to go.”
“But I just got home and you were complaining just yesterday about how terrible it is when I’m gone.” The couple entered their work elevator.
“Yeah, well, I—“
“Are you lying to me?”
“N—no! Why—why would I lie to you?”
“I don’t know. You tell me.” She glared at him.
“I—well, I—“
“Fine.” She tore her hand from his grip. “Be that way.”
“Y/N.” She ignored him as she stormed out of the elevator. “Y/N, please.” She headed straight into her office, slamming the door. Tony sighed, shaking his head.
“What the hell did you do?” Wanda asked as she stood in front of him.
“Hopefully not mess everything up,” he muttered. “I’ll be gone for the rest of the week, Wanda. I apologize already for the mood that Y/N will probably be in for the remainder of the week.”
“But why—“
“Just take care of her, Wanda. I promise it’s nothing bad. You’ll actually love it.”
Wanda hesitantly nodded. “Okay.”

~~~

Lover Boy: Hope work went well today. Call me when you’re ready.

Lover Boy: I know you're mad. And I’m sorry for that. I promise that I will explain everything.

Lover Boy: Goodnight, sweetheart. I love you. Sweet dreams.

Lover Boy: Good morning, honey. Have a good day at work. I miss you.

Y/N scoffed as she read the message and got ready for work. She didn’t understand why Tony couldn’t just tell her what he was doing. Instead, he had to be secretive and weird about it. She thought they were done with that, especially after being together for so long now.

Channeling all her anger and frustration, Y/N really focused on her work for the day. She was getting more done than she had in a while, so maybe she needed to be this mad at him all the time. When lunchtime rolled around, her phone buzzed a few times. Y/N didn’t even have to look to know who had sent them.

Lover Boy: I made Wanda bring in lunch for you. It’s in the fridge.

Lover Boy: Please eat. I know that you frequently skip meals because you’re working. So, please eat.

Y/N ended up getting the food from the fridge. Not because Tony wanted her to eat, but because she was hungry. Or at least that was the excuse she was telling herself.

The next two days were very much the same; Y/N overworking while Tony frequently sent her texts. Y/N never once responded, but she knew that wasn’t going to stop Tony from sending her messages. She was resting in the bath when another message came in.

Lover Boy: I know that you are still incredibly mad. (Don’t lie to yourself, you haven’t answered a single one of my messages.) But, will you do me the favor of joining me at Grandmother’s house tomorrow night?

Y/N furrowed her brows as she read the message over again. Grandmother’s house? What could he possibly want to do there?

Lover Boy: Just trust me on this, honey. Please. I promise that my strange behavior will be explained there. Just come.

Y/N sighed before she responded.

My Future Wife: Is there a certain dress code that I need to worry about?

Lover Boy: Just your lovely self.

Lover Boy: I can’t wait to see you.

Lover Boy: I’ve missed you so much.

Lover Boy: Love you and I’ll see you tomorrow.

~~~

Tony was trying his very best to not completely freak out. He had spent the week molding his mother’s and Grandmother’s rings into one. It took careful planning. He wanted their rings to be defined and yet create one new and unique ring. He had decorated the front living room of Grandmother’s house with candles and Y/N’s favorite flowers. He was dressed in a suit, pacing around the place. Tony quickly froze when his phone buzzed.

My Future Wife: Happy’s just pulling us into the driveway. Am I allowed to go right in? Or should I wait?

Lover Boy: Just come right in.

Tony let out a long breath and his heart began beating rapidly in his chest. This was it. Y/N was going to walk in at any moment and Tony was going to ask her to be his wife. Tony positioned himself in the center of the living room. His heart almost burst when he heard the door open.

“Tony?” Y/N called, looking around as she entered the house. “I’m here.”
“In the front room!” Tony replied, trying to sound calm.
Y/N walked over, gasping at the sight of everything. “Tony… what’s going on here?”
“Hey, sweetheart.” He smiled, holding his hand out for her. “Come here.”
She put a hand in his and let him pull her to him. “What are you doing?” Tears already began pricking out her eyes as he took her another hand.
Tony smiled widely at her, allowing tears to form in his own eyes. “I’m doing what I should have done a long time ago.” He took a deep breath. “Y/N L/N… I fell in love with you back when we were little and didn’t fully understand love. I remember when mom and Grandmother would joke about how we were meant to be and that we’d get married one day. Howard even told me once that you were going to be the only woman he ever approved of for me. And yet, I almost messed all that up. I almost disappointed them all. I made mistake after stupid mistake and yet somehow, I still ended up with you. You forgave me and, even after all these years, I still can’t fathom why. But I have never taken your forgiveness for granted since then and I will continue to not.”
Tony paused, taking another deep breath before continuing again, “I hope that I have shown you how you deserve to be treated and loved and I hope that I can continue to do so. Because, honey, they were all right. We are meant to be. I cannot imagine my life without you and I don’t want to. So, if I can continue to do this without messing up…”

Tony let go of Y/N’s hands and got down on one knee. One of his hands fished into one of his pockets and pulled out the ring he had worked tirelessly on. Y/N gasped, really looking at the ring.

“Are those…” She couldn’t even finish the sentence, she was in complete awe.
“They are my mom’s and your grandmother’s,” Tony answered. “That’s why I needed work off. I was putting the two rings together.”
“It’s gorgeous.”
“So, Y/N L/N, will you marry me?”
Tears slipped down her face as she nodded. “Yes… a thousand times yes.”

Tony quickly slid the ring on Y/N’s hand and took up. He held her close as he kissed her deeply.

“I love you so much,” he mumbled against her lips.
“I love you, too,” she replied. “Rhodey’s going to take all the credit for this, I hope you know.”
“Oh, I know. And that’s okay. I’m the one who gets the real prize.”