Chapter Text
Thursday, June 14 th , 2018
Edward sits at the monitor, trying to alleviate the dull throbbing in his leg. The schematics in front of him are blurring together. He should have taken the sedative last night, he thinks. He doesn’t sleep well without them, and honestly, it might be worth it just to sleep through one night. Besides, they’re bound to come for him at night within the next few days. Maybe taking the sedatives this week is better. They can’t know that he’s not taking all his pills.
He needs to get out of here. If he doesn’t find a way to leave soon, he’ll never be able to. The noose is getting tighter and tighter every day.
He rolls his shoulders. They’re stiff and aching, just like the entirety of his body. He can’t just go on a walk to loosen up, because the guards won’t let him.
If he delivers on the next missile design, would he dare to ask Sade for rest privileges? He knows the other top HYDRA scientists are allowed to leave the base. He could play up the helpless act, make them believe that escorting him out for a short walk would never lead to him escaping. He needs to get an idea of where he is.
He goes back to the schematics. He needs to correct the curve of the—
A ripple goes through him. He looks down, slowly, at his legs, then at the monitor. The guards don’t react. He checks the time. Ten minutes.
He continues to work on the schematics, making sure to hide his legs and his face from the guards. He works, and winds up, slowly, slowly, slowly. He’s buzzing with barely restrained anxiety when the ten minute mark hits.
Nothing happens.
He waits, a little longer, a little more, just to be sure. Two minutes more, and he has the confirmation.
He straightens up. His gaze finds the guards, looking at him in askance.
Tony Stark rises from the chair, chest already glowing, nanoparticles flowing over his skin, and raises his open palms in the classic gesture of Iron Man.