Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Time.

Time had always been Steve's biggest enemy. Much more than Hydra had ever been.

Hydra, he could defeat. He could fight Loki or Ultron. He could fight the government when they try to take Bucky. He could fight Thanos.

But time....time was something he could not fight.

It always came and took Steve unguarded. He never saw it coming. One moment he thought he knew what was going on, and in the next, time struck, and his life changed without him realizing.

It happened back when he woke up, it happened when he found out about Bucky, and it has happened again, after the Civil War.

Time had striked, and once again, Steve had not seen it coming.

His time in Wakanda was like the one in the ice, except that he had been conscious. The world moved on while he was stuck.

At the time, they had no way to go back home. Scott had been the only one that did so, as he had people willing to help him. But Steve and the others had burned the bridge with the man capable of doing so.

He had carried the flip phone all those days, thinking that it was only a matter of time for Tony to call. To tell Steve that he needed them. That he needed him.

It was only when they finally returned to the compound that it happened.

The Accords Council had finally given them some sort of pardons. Not because they were needed, but because they wanted all possible man power to fight Thanos.

The amount of restircions, of rules, the fact that the compound they knew was gone, had soured the team's mood. That T'Challa and the other Wakandians had really not tried to hide how happy they were that the Avengers were leaving, soured it even more.

The fact that Bucky had remained in Wakanda, despite being out of cyro, because he felt more at home there, was a even bigger hit for Steve.

Yet he was not prepared for what happened when he came.

Out in the terminal, The one waiting for them was none other than Sharon Carter. Steve was greatly surprised at seeing her there.

"Sharon what are you.." Steve started to say as he got out of the jet, when...

SLAP !

Suddenly, Sharon had just gone and slapped Steve in the face !

"Wha..."

"That is for my cousin Rogers." Sharon sneered. "Hurt him again, and it will be a bullet what I hit you with." With that she walked back into the compound.

Steve stood there stunned. Who was Sharon's cousin...and when did Steve hurt him ? He did not move until Natasha placed a hand on his shoulder, signaling for him to move on.

The compound might have looked the same from the outside, though it was clearly bigger, but the inside showed another thing entirely. Gone was the place Steve called home, instead, this new place were many, so many people were there, it was not what he wanted to return to.

Sharon took them over all of the new areas of the compound.

"Doors with pads mean that they are restricted," Sharon got her key card and pressed it on the pad, which turned green. "If the pad turns green, it means you have access, and the door will unlock. If the pad turns red, it means you don't have access, and the door will remain locked. attempt to try to gone a door open, will be a breach on your contract. For your sake, don't try it."

"How do you determine which people have access to what areas ?" Natasha asked.

"Like in SHIELD, all personal is placed into levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 personal only have access to the public areas while level 5s have unrestricted access, except for personal spaces of course."

"So Steve is a level 5 right." Natasha said. "He is the leader."

Sharon glared at them.

"Since you clearly did not read the packets T'Challa gave you, then you would know that Mr. Rogers is not the leader of the team, Colonel Rhodes is. You are all being given level 2 access."

She continued the tour, ignoring their reactions at the fact that Steve will no longer lead the team.

They continued on, passing threw familiar and new faces. At one time they came across Scott, who was walking into a door with Hope van Dyne. Steve and Sam greeted him, but Scott just ignored them, while Hope gave them a glare.

They reached the cafeteria where they spotted another familiar face.

Tony.

He was walking from the counter, with a tray of coffee mugs. Steve recognize Tony's and Bruce's personal mugs, though the other three were a mystery.

"Tony." Steve called out. Still stunned at seeing the genius.

Tony looked well, very well. Steve...Steve had not seeing him like that in a long time.

Tony looked at them, but quickly turned to Sharon.

"Wait....their return was today ?"

"Uhum. Today was the day when the council made the deals for them to return."

"Hm....Must have slipped my mind."

"I wonder why ?" Sharon chuckled. "Busy at night where you ?"

Steve watched the exchange confused. He did not even know Tony and Sharon knew each other. But they did, and were clearly close, seeing Tony's relaxed tone with her.

"You could say that." Tony smirked.

"What, are you back on your slut ways Stark." Clint snarled. "Sleeping with any woman you encounter or what ?"

He was promptly ignored, which Steve is sure angered him more.

"You are not the one to talk about this Sharry Bear. I want to know if something is going on with you and Carol."

"Hmm, maybe, she does have a fine ass."

"That there is no doubt, but I am not in her tase so..."

"Unlike certain other blond right ?"

Blond....could they be talking about Steve ? Steve wondered. His heart raced a bit at that.

"Nah, I ain't having this right now. I need to get back into the lab. Its not every day I have Bruce, Shuri, and FitzSimmons on the same lab. Its science time !"

"Have you learned nothing about Ultron Stark !" Wanda yelled, but again, she was ignored.

“Peter ain’t joining you ?” Sharon continued on as if they weren’t there.

“Nope. He’s training with Yelena right now. She’s making sure the kid is safe out there.”

“Oh I bet you would equally love being there, right Tones.”

Tony blushes. “You’re lucky I love you cuz.”

Cuz ! That...that means Tony is Sharon’s cousin !

The two bantered for a bit more, and then Tony left to the labs. Once again ignoring the insults Clint and Wanda shouted.

Tony had completely ignored them. Not even did a reaction to their presence.

Steve had imagine a lot of scenarios for his first reunion with Tony. Some better than others. But he did not imagine this.

He much rather would have had the worst scenarios he imagined. As this apathy stunged a lot more than hatred.

Everything had changed more than Steve had expected.

The fact that he wasn’t the leader anymore was just the beggining. The team tried to protest against it, tried to take a stand for Steve to get back the leadership, but they were severely over numbered by the others. And since their pardons clearly stated they had to follow all rules, they could not do anything about it.

Rhodes And Danvers, the second in command, run the Avengers in a strict matter. Training that was very intense. Sessions after all drills about what could be done better.

Steve and his team weren’t still aloud in all sessions. Not until as the council said. They have enough knowledge about the Accords and it’s guidelines.

Nat said it was so that if anything happen, the team could not claim ignorance as an excuse.

Steve would admit that the Accords aren’t as bad as he thought. Some of the amendments Tony had made were good. But he still found them very restrictive. The best hands are their own, he still stands by it. And he knows one day he will be proven true.

But while his team still believes in him, the people don’t longer want to hear about what Captain America wants to say. They’ve watched it, the crowds, the protests. The people speaking out against them. Against what Steve had done.

He had attempted to protect them. But they did not care. They didn’t see Steve as the hero of the story. They saw him as the....as the villain. As the hero that refused to put himself in check.

Even though the protests didn’t stop the pardons, though if Thanos wasn’t coming, that could have happened, it did make many things happened,

Steve, as well as Sam and Bucky, were dishonorably discharged from the army, loosing all their ranks. Veterans called Steve a disgrace for the army. Natasha and Clint were disowned by SHIELD, and declared persona no grata in the organization, and Wanda was declared an international terrorist, and it she ever left the states, she would be arrested.

Their friends had abandoned them. Thor and Bruce had scoffed at them when they saw them. Rhodes ignored Sam’s attempts to talk, and Vision ditched poor Wanda.

But nothing, nothing shocked Steve more than Tony’s continued....disinterest in them.

He didn’t avoid them in meetings. He was there, he was there in training. But aside from that, they never saw him. Steve had tried to follow him so they could talk, but Tony was always in the labs or in places that Steve’s pass did not let him enter.

When they did see him. Tony just....lived as if they didn’t exist. He ignored Clint’s and Wanda’s insults, didn’t pick up on Natasha’s comments, he didn’t react to Steve’s attempts to start a conversation.

Something or someone always caught his attention. Tony was never alone when they saw him. Which brought the main subject of the problem.

Yelena Belova.

She was Natasha’s sister, though she clearly wanted nothing to do with her. Nat had been shocked to see her, and had been specially shocked at how close she and Tony are.

They were constantly together. She was Tony’s partner in training. They were in the dining room together. Steve saw them going out together a lot. He even heard from Sharon, that Yelena actually had unrestricted access to Tony’s lab ! Only Bruce, and later Vision, had gotten that back in the day.

How they got so close was just....baffling to Steve. He couldn’t understand.

Even now in the meeting. Steve gave a look over to Tony, but he was again pretending he wasn’t even there. What’s more, Yelena was casually leaning on his shoulder. Steve gripped his fists at the sight.

"So with that in mind, I think we can close the meeting." Rhodes said from the front of the table. The place that once belonged to Steve. "Unless there is any question."

"Yes I have a question." Clint growled, looking at Tony. Tony however did not notice, looking at his tablet.

"Go on Barton." Rhodes said with a groan.

"When is my bow getting fixed, and I want new arrows." Clint yelled.

"As I told you, the request was submitted for the department, and they'll get back to you as soon as they can."

"Yeah right, why do I need the department when I can get the answer, right now." He yelled at Tony, slamming his fist to the ground.

Tony ignored him. Still looking at the tablet, sometimes showing it to Yelena, who gave an exited sight at what they were seeing.

"Dam it Stark, I am talking to you !" Clint yelled, standing up.

"Barton seat down !" Carol yelled from where she was sitting. "Now !"

Clint growled, but did as told. They all know not to piss of Carol.

"I am confused Mr. Barton." Rhodes said. "Why are your directing your demands at Tony ?"

"Because Stark is the one that makes the tec, but since he is a petty bastard...."

"Oh great. Barton, have you still not read your packets !" Rhodes yelled back. "Lord giv....Tony does not make your tec !"

At that, everyone looked at Rhodes.

"What do you mean Tony is not making our tec anymore ?" Steve asked. "He always did it before."

"Yes, but he has chosen not to. A department specially made for Avengers' tec was made, with top of the knodge technicians. They are the ones in charge of your bow Barton. But as I have told you, they have dozens of requests, of people that filled out the paper work first. So they get priority."

"But...that doesn't make sense !" Sam said.

"What is it Mr. Wilson ? I don't understand why this is hard to understand."

"You use Stark Tech. So does Belova, Vision, Banner, and Spider Man !"

"Yes we do."

"Then why did you get it, and we don't !"

"Easy Mr. Wilson. We made separate deals with Tony. He wants to make tech for us, that's why."

"So Stark gets to keep his toys from us because he is just being petty !" Clint yelled.

"Pretty much. His time, his lab. It is his choice." Rhodey said, shutting Clint up.

"What it is clear, is that you all have still not read the packets given to you." Carol said seriously. "Well then. Rogers, Romanoff, Barton, Wilson, and Maximoff are benched from training, and meetings not regarding Thanos, until they finally read the packets and understand them,"

Steve and his team protested, but they could do nothing about it.

Tony did not even comment. But then his tablet lit up.

"Shit, its here !"

"Finally !" Yelena stood up, with Tony behind her.

"Tony, what is going on ?" Steve asked, but he was ignored. "Tony !"

Steve went to follow, but Carol shouted at him to sit down.

"Rogers, get back in your chair."

"But Tony...he..."

"He has something to do. Now seat ! Remember, you do not give the calls."

Steve sighted and sat down.

"What is going on with Tony ?" He asked.

"I don't know." Carol said honestly. "That must be his business."

"You mean you don't know what Stark is up to !" Wanda yelled. "He could be creating another Ultron or..."

"Tony is not creating anything Ms. Maximoff." Vision said. Wanda winced at his serious tone. "I am aware of what both him and Yelena have been waiting for." A small smile came to Vision. "They have been waiting for it for a while."

"Oh." Bruce said. "I think I get it, Tony spoke about it on the lab ! He was actually excited about it."

"Oh yes." Sharon spoke from besides Carol. "It arrived today. It actually slipped my mind."

"Are you gonna tell us what all of this is about ?" Natasha asked.

"You will see Romanoff." Rhodes said.

"Rhodes, we should know, if its something dangerous or that could affect the team...." Steve tried.

"Vision already said its nothing dangerous. What's more, it is not your business Rogers." Rhodes said harshly. "Now, let us continue."

Steve sighted, he knew he would not get out anything.

5 minutes later though, everyone learned what this was about.

"Woof ! Woof !"

"Oh she is so precious !" Yelena yelled. "They all are !"

From the corner, they saw Tony and Yelena walk threw with.....

"Puppies ?" Sam asked. "That's all its been about...it was just dogs ?"

"Indeed." Vision said. "Since they became close, Yelena got Tony into dogs. They have adopted 5 puppies, and they arrived today. Which I think it is a good thing."

"Dogs can be helpful for healing, and with what they have been threw, they could use them." Strange said from his spot. "Though you said 5, I saw 7 !"

"Oh the other two are for Thor. He and Jane wanted more life in their new house. He will pick them up a little later today."

Steve could not believe it. If...if this was just about dogs. If all Tony had been doing was picking up some dogs, why did he not tell Steve ?

"If all Tony was doing was getting dogs....why did he not tell us ?"

"Like I said Rogers. It was none of your business." Rhodes said.

The meeting continued on, with Steve having a sour feeling on his mouth.

"Oh come on !" Thor yelled from his spot at the couch.

"Why did we think on inviting Loki to play Mario Party ?" Tony asked Bruce, who shook his head. "Seriously, what is wrong with us Brucie ?"

"I don't know Tony." Bruce watched, as Loki stood the star Thor had literally just gotten. Making him the lead in the game.

"You midgarians create such wonderful games." Loki said smirking. "I love this."

Steve was watching from the spot he was sitting with the team. They had come to the common room to get a break. Danvers had been deadly serious about not allowing them in training, until they got all what their deals said right, and she was testing them about it.

Steve had been surprised to find Tony there. In the couch playing Mario Party with Thor, Bruce, and....Loki.

It made his blood boil. How can Tony be so friendly to Loki, but continue to ignore Steve and the others.

Steve had already tried to make conversation, but he had been ignored, again.

This sight also brought back some memories. Back on the days when they lived on the Tower, before the Accords came and ruined everything. When Tony still spoke to all of them. Steve saw him multiple times with Thor and Bruce, playing silly, mostly Mario, games. They had even invited Steve to play with them back then, but he had always refused. He saw no point in video games.

He wondered if this help make Tony, Thor, and Bruce so close friends. He didn't know they had a tight bond.

The fact that now Loki, their former enemy, is there, makes it hard to bear.

"See, I knew the moment he chose Waluigi, we would be in trouble." Tony yelled. "That guy is a cheater."

"For some reason that baffles me less, than how you always play as Yoshi Tony."

"Shut up Brucie, Yoshi is awesome ! You are just mad that I stole the green character. Though you could have chosen Luigi if you wanted green."

"I've always played DK. Reminds me of my time in Africa, where I saw gorillas in the wild."

"I am happy they have the star princess !" Thor said from his spot, though the score board clearly showed Rosalina was in last, Thor was having a blast.

Steve watched this in a pained sight. He missed this. The moment were the team behaved like a family. Not this...hostilty, that divided those who sided with Steve, and those who sided with Tony...though the latter side was much bigger.

He just wants things to go back to how they were ? Is that too much to ask ?

In the end, Tony managed to pull off a miracle, and defeated Loki before the game ended.

"Hah ! Take that Lokes !"

"You did not tell me they would award bonus points.....well played Anthony."

Steve saw that the game was done, so he stood up.

"Hey Tony. I was wondering if we could talk, catch up for a while."

"Sorry Rogers." He said, clearly not sounding sorry at all. "I do have to go. I agreed to meet with Yelena after she finished walking the doors. We are doing a little competition after all."

"Oh really, what kind ?" Bruce asked.

"We are doing a Pixar marathon, and keeping score on who cries less. I'm winning but....we are watching Inside Out today, and man.....Bing Bong always gets to me."

"I get you, me and my cousin Jen watched it recently again...I could not hold it. But I should go as well....I....well I....have a date in an hour."

"Oh my god !" Thor yelled. "You finally asked Valkyire out, I knew you were gonna be a match !"

"Technically she asked him...but who cares. I am happy for you Bruce, she's a keeper !"

From the corner of his eye, Steve watched Nat wince at the news. They had over heard rumors about Bruce and the Asgardian that came with Thor, and they seem to be true. Steve never thought Bruce would leave Nat like that...

"Thanks guys."Bruce said. Not caring he was hurting the one that loved him. "Well then, I need to go." Bruce stood up and went to his quarters.

"Yeah, I am gonna get things ready before Yelena gets back. Maybe call Pep and see what happened in the last meeting, and if she needs anything."

"You and Yelena seem very close all of the sudden ?" Natasha asked. "How did you become so close friends ?"

At that...Loki laughed.

"Wow...you are pathetic spy." Loki said, turning to look at them. "You really can't see what has been happening ?"

No one in Steve's team spoke. Clint tensed, like he did any time Loki spoke. But he had learned the hard way what happens if someone threatens Loki in Thor's presence.

"What are you talking about Loki." Steve demanded.

"Anthony is not close friends with the good spider. He's dating her. They've been dating for a long time now." Loki said, still chuckling.

Steve however, froze with shock at that.

Tony....is dating Yelena !

He thought they were close friends....but....Steve did not think Tony would actually date her.

He did not think he would have competition for Tony's feelings...

"Thanks for pointing out an obvious fact Lokes. Its not like we hide it. But as Brucie said, I have a date and must go."

Tony left to his quarters as well. Leaving the shocked Steve behind.

"Come on brother ! Let us go to the private room. I have chatted with the man of ants, and he and his girlfriend are wanting to play with us !"

"Oh great, another naive competitor, and one that will actually challenge me." Loki said, as the brothers left the stunned Team Cap behind.

"Fucking asshole." Clint mumbled. "Tries to destroy New York, and he gets treated miles better than us."

Steve sighted and sat down. His head hurt as how much things changed.

The fact that Loki gave them more attention than Tony....it was too much. The genius is really taking this too far. Steve would say him so....as soon as he can get the genius to talk to him.

Turns out, Loki had been right.

Tony's relationship with Yelena had started around 8 months after the Civil War, and it was nothing private.

There were photos of them in restaurants, movies. People talking about Tony Stark's new girlfriend, it as everywhere.

It made Steve want to punch something every time he read about how people thought they were a good couple.

Steve had tried to catch Tony for a conversation, but the genius was always out of his sight. He already got reprimanded for trying to enter an area he was not allowed on. Nat and Clint also got strikes when they tried to either hack FRIDAY, or go threw the vents.

Shorty after that, Rhodes had called them for a meeting. Danvers had finally cleared them after she was satisfy that they new about their pardon deals.

They just showed Steve how much things had changed, and how hard it could be to change them back.

And as always, things got worst.

"You want to separate us !" Wanda yelled.

Rhodes, Danvers, Strange, and Coulson were on the table, not reacting to her outburst.

“Indeed.” Coulson said seriously. “As you have read on the packets. The avengers are divided on sub groups, depending on their skills and strengths. You all will be placed on diferent teams. You Ms. Maximoff are going to the magic division, lead by Dr. Strange. Ms. Romanoff And Mr. Barton will be on the spy division lead by Agent Carter. Mr. Rogers and Mr. Wilson will be on the second field division, lead by Captain Danvers.”

“You can’t do this !” Steve yelled. “We are a team, we won’t be separated ! I will not allow it !”

“The desicion has already been made Mr. Rogers.” Carol said. “It is final, and for the I don’t know what time, you are not in command.”

“You are welcome to appeal it,” Rhodes said. “I’ll gladly give you the paper work to do so. But I will say it will be highly unlikely this gets reversed. Considering the other reason the decision was made.”

“What was the other reason then ?” Natasha demanded.

The four people looked at each other, before they spoke. “There have been concerns lately about your attempts to break the rules.” Coulson said. “Ever since you arrived, you have tried to violate the rules you know have been placed. Mr. Rogers has attempted to enter areas he is not authorized in, as well as attempting to take command on training sessions, despite being told multiple times that he’s not in charge. Mr. Barton has been recorded attempting to get in the vents, which violates the privacy code. Ms. Romanoff has been caught attempting to hack FRIDAY and other compound systems, and while the attempts have been mediocare at best, they were still done. So far Mr. Wilson has nothing serious, other than obeying Rogers’ illegitimate orders in training. As for Ms. Maximoff. Our magical experts have detected that she has attempted to get in the heads of multiple individuals in the compound. Most namely Dr. Stark And Vision.”

“Magical expertsl my ass.” Clint yelled. “Are you really trusting Loki’s word !”

“They are taking about Dr. Xavier and me, Mr. Barton.” Stephen said. “And while Loki is clearly not the most trusted individual, his word means more than yours I assure you. And let me tell you, what Maximoff has attempted to do, violates magical law. Weren’t for the council, she would be under my custody right now.”

“This has been decided as a last resort measure.” Rhodes said. “We hope that if you lot are separarted, you will follow the rules. Consider this as the final warning. If the rule breaking continues, you will be dropped from the Accords Program and the Avengers. That of course will violate the deal the US government made for your pardons, and so you will be extradited to the countries that you are wanted on.”

“So we either follow your bullshit rules, or we get sent to jail, is that what I’m hearing !” Clint yelled.

“Pretty much.” Carol said simply. “If you had follow the rules, if you had read your packets from the beginning, this could have been avoided. But the ball is on you.”

Steve sighted. They were being separated. After all they fought, they were gonna be split apart.

What’s worst. Steve didn’t know how to stop it. He didn’t even know if he could.

But he did know of one person that could. A genius that could save the Avengers. And Steve really needs to talk to him.”

“Tony.” Steve called out.

In a rare sight. He had spotted Tony alone on the entrance.

He was dressed in a fine suit, which made Steve’s heart beat faster.

One could never deny Tony Stark is a gorgeous sight. That would be a lie.

“What is it Mr. Rogers ?”

“Can we talk ?”

“Hm....do make it quick. As soon as Yelena gets here, I’m out those doors.”

“I’m afraid this conversation will take a long time.”

“Well too bad for you. Peter’s decathlon team is competing on L.A and we promised to be there. We need to catch the plane and get the dogs on it.

Steve sighted. He needed this conversation to happen now. But it seems he has no choice to play with Tony’s rules.

“They’re trying to separate the team.” Steve started.

“Yes I heard. Also they are not “trying” They did it. Specifically they separated your team.”

“They can’t do this Tony !”

“Well they did.” He said with that same nonchalant tone he has when speaking to Steve.

“You can stop this Tony.”

“I could. I do have some influence on the council despite not being a team leader. I won’t do it though, it’s not my fault you lot just can’t help to get into trouble.”

“Can you stop doing that !” Steve yelled, finally having enough.

“Stop doing what ?”

“Stop...acting like this ! Like you don’t care about us !”

“Oh I’m not acting Rogers. I just don’t care about you and your friends, not enough to give you my attention.”

Steve stumbles back. Shocked.

“Tony....you can’t meant that !”

“I do. You guys are nothing to me. I don’t hate you, like I should, I certainly don’t like you. You are just..there.”

“Tony....Tony we are your friends, your family ! You have to care about us !”

“We are not friends Rogers. Certainly not family. I have learned what that truly means and let me tell you people aren’t there.”

Then Tony finally looked at Steve with emotion. With a deep rage that Steve did not expect.

“You want to know what I could have done if I cared Rogers ?” Tony said. “You people constantly forget what I can do. I could have ruined you. If I cared about you, I would have made sure you never got the pardons. I would have made sure you would end up in the Raft, locked for life. I could and would make you and your friends’ life a complete nightmare. After all you lot did to me, I could have easily gone for revenge.”

Then that sudden emotion died, leaving that neutral not caring tone back.

“But if I did that. I would show that you all still affect me. That you still impact my life. And no matter how satisfying would it be to ruin you, I decided to do what was best for me. And that was to forget. To forget about you and your friends, and just live my life. Instead of a quest of revenge, I went to therapy, I focused on my health. I cultivated the friendships that were worth keeping. I built new ones knowing how true friends are. And from one of them, I found a wonderful girlfriend. I found a life I’m happy with. And with that, I finally found the closure with you people.”

Steve gasped at Tony’s very honest statement.

Up to this moment, he thought that Tony had been faking that actitud that he didn’t care. That it was just some petty act.

But he knows the truth now. Tony hasn’t been faking. He truly doesn’t care for the team anymore. He doesn’t care about Steve.

“Tony...Tony please. I just want for things to get back to how they were.”

“Well I guess you should learn this lesson Rogers. The clock never turns backwards.”

“Tony please....what can I do, to show you that I care. To make you see that we can be something !”

“Nothing, there is nothing you can do Rogers. Any chance I could have given you, died in Siberia. “

“Tony...” Steve didn’t know what to do. But he had to do something. He couldn’t let stay like this. “Tony please...I lov...”

“Wow. Ok I was not expecting that. Your feelings are your own Rogers, and I won’t judge you. But do get it on your head, I’m not interested. I’m in a great relationship right now, and I Yelena very much. So do not try to get in your head that you have a chance, because I’m telling you, you don’t.”

“Ah, I’m glad I have such a loyal boyfriend.” Yelena said, entering the room and standing at Tony’s side.

Tony kisses her right in the lips. Making Steve grip his fists so hard it hurts. Jealousy consuming him over.

“Happy got the dogs in the plane. We are ready to go ?”

“Absolutely. I just dropped the last things for Bruce to run the labs while I’m gone. We are ready.”

“Good good.” She said.

She then turned to Steve, and gave him a harsh glare.

“Peace of advice Mr. Rogers. Tony doesn’t care for you....but I love him. And if you, My “dear” sister, or any of you get any ideas to hurt him...I will make you pay. Just mark my words...Ms. Maximoff learned on the hard way now.”

“Wait, what did you do to Maximoff ?” Tony asked.

“Nothing major babe. All in within the law and guidelines of the Accords. Val and I just wanted to make sure she knew not to mess with our favorite scientist again,”

“Well....I hope FRIDAY has footage for that. Anyway, should we go ?” He asked her. Once again, ignoring Steve. It feels that’s all Tony is gonna do now. Ignore him.

“Let’s go see your son.”

“He’s not my son !”

“Oh come on babe, he has even called you Dad sometimes !”

They both laughed and talk, holding hands as they left.

Steve looked down as soon as he was alone. A feeling of loss fulling him.

He had to accept that Tony just...doesn’t care about him. Steve means nothing to him. Not anymore.

He is trapped with the Accords, something he still can’t get behind with. His team, his friends are all being separated, and he can do nothing about it. He lost the leadership and he’s not getting it back.

Tony, the only one that could help him. The one that Steve loves...he doesn’t care. Tony doesn’t like Steve, nore does he hate Steve.

He just feels nothing towards him. And that hurts so much more than hatred. Steve wished Tony would hate him, that would mean Steve would still mean something in Tony’s life.

But for once, Tony had chosen the best for himself, and he had chosen just to forget about the team, and move on from them, and that...that hurt so much. It made Steve want to seat and cry.

It was truly the best revenge Tony could have thought of.

Chapter Text

At first, all that Tony felt was rage.

Fiery burning rage. Wanting nothing more than to deal pain to the rouges, to make them suffer.

But then, as therapy went on, Tony felt his anger give away.

Not because he forgave Rogers or anything like that. O no, it was nothing close to that.

The thing was, that Tony discovered at the one he was hurting more with his rage and wish for revenge, was himself. He could allow it to consume him, and in some way, Rogers would win. Because that would show the rouges still had such an impact on him.

For the first time in a while, Tony decided to take the best course of action for himself.

Not to forgive, but to forget, to move on.

What happened happened, he could not change that. What he could do, is make life better for himself.

"In some ways." His therapist said. "The best revenge you could give Mr. Rogers....is not your hatred, but your apathy. Not caring about him and his friends at all. But more importantly, it will allow yourself to move on from this point in life."

And that is what he did.

Tony dropped all his plans, his wishes for revenge, and instead focussed on a healthier path. Getting his mental health back in order, and figuring out his life.

He finally stopped carying the Avengers on his shoulders. He made an agreement for the UN to fund them now. Of course Tony is still gonna thrown his support when he can, and support his friends. But the days he did everything are over.

He got Rhodey back on his feet. He got Vision a therapist of his own, and he finally started to discover himself outside the Avengers. He got back to work for S.I, making his company grow even larger.

He helped the Asgardians when they came. He happyly welcomed Brucie back, and was very pleased with the new wiser Thor. Loki was a can of worms he slowly opened and got used to.

He cleaned Sharon's name after Ross tried to frame her for his agents. He got rid of Ross, making the General loose all of his titles, and sent to prison for the next 40 years.

He recruited new members for the Avengers. Carol was the ideal co leader for the team, a true Captain. Stephen brought the magical knowledge that they did not have. Worked in par with Coulson and his new SHIELD, bringing a lot of people with interesting people. He even got a fellow billionaire to the team with Hope, along with a repentant Scott, who after you meet, is a fun guy to have around.

He continued to mentor Peter. Making sure he did not do the mistakes he did when he stated. He got him to tell May about Spider Man, and created a plan so that an Avenger was always in stand for him.

He....he despite the odds, actually fell in love again, with someone no one saw it coming.

Yelena Belova had come shortly after the Civil War with some....interesting information that had Rhodey cursing Barton and Romanoff for hours. There were other Black Widows, and they were trapped under mind control. So they went in and helped her.

This experience finally allowed him to drop any bad feelings he had towards Barnes. That helped as well, though unlike with the others, instead of apathy, he did allow some positivity to his feelings for the man.

Yelena is Natasha's sister, but she was nothing like her. Unlike Natasha, she did not lie all the time. She in fact, did not like lies, being subjected to them for a long time. She did not think herself as perfect or unique, and was more humble. That made her much more fun to be around.

It helped that she is a beautiful woman.

Feelings were born, and a almost a year after the Civil War, Tony had a girlfriend.

He healed, he got stronger. He strengthen the friendships worth keeping, and built new ones, with one of them blossoming into a wonderful relationship.

Soon enough, Tony spent months, without thinking of Rogers on the others. Because he had finally reached that point that he wanted. Absolute apathy.

And with that, also came happiness.

Two years after the Civil War, the time was coming.

The Guardians told them about Thanos, the big bastard was coming.

Of course, with the assholes that never believed him gone, they had actually being preparing for the coming of the Titan, but still everyone got nervous when they heard that.

Then the topic of the Rouges came on.

Barnes was not in question. Though he would have been the easiest to argue for. He had already expressed his desire to remain in Wakanda. The man had grown comfortable in there, and after what he had been threw, no one wanted to take his calm and security from him.

Some gorverment officials wanted to pardon them to bring "unity" and all of that shit back. Tony could have honestly not cared less of his arguments.

He acknowledges that the more numbers the better. He doesn't think Rogers and his lot can bring something particularly special to the battle, but hey, they can use cannon folder.

Tony excused himself from the panel on creating the deal for the Rouges. Leaving it to Rhodey and Carol to map it out. Both of them could unleash their vengeance and disgust, while mapping them as professional as they could.

Is not like the rouges had anything going for them. Two disgraced former members of the military, two disbanded agents, and an unstable witch......yeah they did not have anything to gain favor. And while the US government is willing to do this, others are not.

"It seems this deal might be....a bit unfair to your former teammates Mr. Stark ?" The US representative tried.

"I am not the leader of the team, Rhodey and Carol are. Deal with them. All I point out, is the banning for the five individuals from all S.I properties, and that I will no longer give them any free money. The time for that is long."

"Mr. Stark they..."

"Might have a problem with that ? I don't care. They are adults, they can be responsible for their own income. I could stop this you know. I could make it impossible for them to come back. You know what I did to Ross, I could do the same to them. I won't, because I am willing to put everything aside, to protect the planet. But that is as far as my generosity is to them. Anything else, they will deal with them on their own."

Without Tony's support (and Coulson making it clear he would NOT support the Rouges at SHIELD) the represantiaves had to bend will to Rhodey and Carol, and the deal they made.

It was full of restrictions, and he knew his former teammates are gonna have tons of problems with it.

And Tony....did not care about that.

"I heard someone was wonderful on the conference today." Yelena told him on the bed.

"God it was satisfying to shut those senators up."

"So, they will be back in days. I don't think I have to get FRIDAY to tell me if you bend to them."

"I am always looking for the first chance !" FRIDAY cried.

"Worry not you two. I will not so much as bend a will to them. I'll let other have the fun."

"Hmm...well I trust you. Though just to be known. I do have bones to pick, and me and Val have plans for Natasha and the witch."

"Whoever made you friends, is gonna doom the world. I am convinced this friendship was a plan by Loki. That said....I am looking forward too."

"Now, can we continue talking about the true important stuff ?"

"The puppies ?"

"Yep. Dogs are a thousand times more important than Rogers."

"God I love you."

The first encounter happened the day they returned.

Tony had honestly forgotten it was happening that day. He had other things in his mind. (And his mind was still on that wonderful night Yelena gave him) that he had forgotten.

The first time he saw Rogers, Tony was so glad to admit, that he felt nothing. No long lost love, no hatred, nothing. He did not care.

So when the man tried to make small talk, Tony ignored him. He instead focused on Sharon. Rumors had been going on that his little cousin had a thing with Carol, and Tony had to know if it was true.

He likes Carol, but if she wants to date Sharon, Tony must give her the talk. It was extremely important.

Any thoughts about the Captain (the disgraced one, not the one trying to date his cousin) and got in the wonders of science. Something that got even better when Peter finally joined in.

Since then, many days went just like this one.

The Rouges would try to get to him. Rogers to talk about "team unity" and getting things back to how they used to. Romanoff tried her usual manipulations with talking about his ego, and how could he do better. All that shit. Barton came to talk about how Tony made Laura divorce him (if he learned anything, is that that woman can't be told what to do.) and that he owned him. Maximoff with her usual hatred and bullshit. Only Wilson seemed to be taking the hint, but of course he followed Rogers blindly.

But the rouges never truly got his attention.

He was never alone when he confront them, and he had taken to ignore them while his friends got them to back off.

He knew this made them madder, but well, if they try anything, its gonna fall back on them. Tony is not gonna clean any mess they make.

Aside from the times they caught him on the compound's public areas. The only times he saw them, was in training and in meetings.

Training wasn't the easiest thing by all means. Despite being told multiple times that he was not in charge, Rogers tried to take command of the team and his followers follow his unofficial orders.

It went like this for a while, until Carol finally reached her boiling point and benched the five idiots from training. Turns out, the assholes had not even border to read all of their pardon.

Meetings were easier, Rogers at least knew better than to try to take lead. He instead stared at Tony like some starving man eyeing a sandwich. Tony's eyes always were in, A, the current speaker, B, Yelena, C, his tablet.

They did not mean they were any less annoying. Barton bitching about his arrows, and then all of them yelling about Tony being selfish for not giving them free gear, was honestly tiresome.

It did not help that he was expecting the puppies that day, and that was becoming eternals.

He had never been too much into dogs, but Yelena loved them with passion. And well....she got him into them. He heard dogs helped people. Maybe he should have gotten a dog before.

He of course gets out of the meeting when the dogs get here. Having already spoke to Rhodey about it (he really did not have to be a the conference today, but well, he goes because it helps the team.)

"Rogers tried to go behind you both." Rhodey said, entering his lab with fresh (non alcoholic, Tony has decided to drop alcohol once and for all) drinks. "Carol had to sternly told him he doesn't make the choices and to sit down."

"Let me guess, they tried to pain like I was creating Ultron 2.0 or something like that."

"Indeed. Imagine their shock when they finally learned this was all about dogs."

"That had to be hilarious."

"Yeah. But it was honestly disgusting. Before they knew what it was, Rogers started preaching about secrets and how there should not be one in a team. Then he was sharply reminded of the secret he kept from you by Sharon, and he shut up the rest of the meeting. What a hypocrite."

"That's who Rogers is Honeybear. He acts all mighty like secrets are bad, but when they benefit him, its ok to keep them. He is gonna learn that one hard."

"What do you mean ?"

"Did you know he never told Barnes that Maximoff was Hydra. T'Challa told me Shuri revealed the truth, and let me tell you, Barnes was not happy. Rogers might be having a discussion with his BFF in a little while, one he is not gonna be pleased with."

"I heard that Rogers and his team are being separated." Bruce said over dinner.

"Uhum. The decision was made a while ago."

After multiple rule breaking. With Rogers constantly attempting to enter places he was not allowed to, Romanoff and her laughable attempts to hack FRIDAY, Barton trying to get into the vents, and Maximoff attempting to get in people's minds (he admits that one got him nervous, but Stephen and Loki's protection worked like a charm.) it was decided that the Rouges were becoming more trouble than worth.

Even the US representatives that spoke for them, had not spoken that time. Already feeling the consequences for supporting the unpopular group, and seeing how they were not doing them any favors, those people just sat quietly, probably hoping to save some of their down falling carrier.

"Rogers and Wilson are being placed under Carol on her field team. Since Wilson has actually being reading the accords, and behaving himself more, we think that there is not gonna be an issue. He has stopped following Rogers' orders on training for a while. Romanoff and Barton are going to the spy division which is ran by SHIELD of course, even though Sharon leads the Avengers part. Even though they, specially Romanoff, are not liked by the agency, they know they are the best to keep a handle on them. But if they are hoping to be treated like royals there, they go into a big suprise. As for Maximoff, the Sorecers are gonna be taken care of her."

"I heard this is the last attempt for them to stop breaking rules." Yelena said.

"Yes. This is essentially the last warning. If this doesn't work and they keep at it, then their pardons will be stripped, and they will be extradited to the countries wanting them."

Rhodey and Carol should be telling the rouges all of this today. Which is why they suggested that Tony left the compound for the day. Luckily, Thor had invited him to dinner in New Asgard.

"They are not gonna last long." Yelena commented.

"Nope. Which does mean that we need to get moving." Valkyrie commented.

"Can we know what you two are planning ?" Tony asked. Neither woman commented. "Oh god, please just don't kill them."

"We promise we will do what we do, following the law." Yelena said.

"Yeah, but nothing in the law says we can't have revenge."

Tony decided to just drop it.

"Say Thor, where is Loki ?"

Thor, who was trying out some new food Jane had just cooked, looked at him. "Loki, I think he was visiting the good Wizard."

"Oh I get it. Loki wants to fuck Stephen ! I always thought there was some tension between them."

Thor spat his drink at hearing that. "Oh...Oh I think you are right. Then I must have a talk with the good Wizard, if he wishes to court my brother !"

"I get you buddy. We could tag team, surround him and Carol. I still need to talk to her about her courting of Sharon."

No one mentioned Rogers and his crew in the rest of the dinner. It was great.

"Tony."

Tony looked back, and saw Rogers looking at him.

He knew this was gonna happen. A confrontation just the two of them. It was something that couldn't be avoided.

But Tony is ready for this.

"What is it Mr. Rogers ?"

"Can we talk ?"

“Hm....do make it quick. As soon as Yelena gets here, I’m out those doors.”
“I’m afraid this conversation will take a long time.”

“Well too bad for you. Peter’s decathlon team is competing on L.A and we promised to be there. We need to catch the plane and get the dogs on it. The kid had been talking about this for weeks, and there is no way they are gonna miss it. Besides, Yelena does wish to have a talk with certain Flash Thompson, who continues to bully Peter. And if his parents try anything, Tony will show them Pete has someone more powerful on his side.

He saw Rogers hold out a frustrated protest. At least the man is aware that he doesn't have the power here.

“They’re trying to separate the team.” Steve started.

“Yes I heard. Also they are not “trying” They did it. Specifically they separated your team.”

“They can’t do this Tony !”

“Well they did.” He said with that same nonchalant tone he has when speaking to Rogers. Reflecting his feelings towards them.

“You can stop this Tony.”

“I could. I do have some influence on the council despite not being a team leader. I won’t do it though, it’s not my fault you lot just can’t help to get into trouble.”

“Can you stop doing that !” Rogers yelled.

“Stop doing what ?”

“Stop...acting like this ! Like you don’t care about us !”

“Oh I’m not acting Rogers. I just don’t care about you and your friends, not enough to give you my attention.”

He saw Rogers stumble in shock. Did he really think Tony still cared about him and his team ? Delusions were flying all around.

“Tony....you can’t meant that !”

“I do. You guys are nothing to me. I don’t hate you, like I should, I certainly don’t like you. You are just..there.”

“Tony....Tony we are your friends, your family ! You have to care about us !”

“We are not friends Rogers. Certainly not family. I have learned what that truly means and let me tell you people aren’t there.”

Those words however, brought back some memories. And with those memories, came pure rage. One he could not cover. So he showed it to Rogers.

“You want to know what I could have done if I cared Rogers ?” Tony said. “You people constantly forget what I can do. I could have ruined you. If I cared about you, I would have made sure you never got the pardons. I would have made sure you would end up in the Raft, locked for life. I could and would make you and your friends’ life a complete nightmare. After all you lot did to me, I could have easily gone for revenge.”

Then, Tony stopped. If he continued, that would mean Rogers still meant something, which he doesn't.

That rage will only hurt him, and Tony is done with that.

So his apathy, his true feeling towards Rogers, returned.

“But if I did that. I would show that you all still affect me. That you still impact my life. And no matter how satisfying would it be to ruin you, I decided to do what was best for me. And that was to forget. To forget about you and your friends, and just live my life. Instead of a quest of revenge, I went to therapy, I focused on my health. I cultivated the friendships that were worth keeping. I built new ones knowing how true friends are. And from one of them, I found a wonderful girlfriend. I found a life I’m happy with. And with that, I finally found the closure with you people.”

Tony held out a smirk at Rogers shocked, almost sad expression. It seemed he was finally getting it.

“Tony...Tony please. I just want for things to get back to how they were.”

“Well I guess you should learn this lesson Rogers. The clock never turns backwards.”

“Tony please....what can I do, to show you that I care. To make you see that we can be something !”

“Nothing, there is nothing you can do Rogers. Any chance I could have given you, died in Siberia. “

"Tony please....I lov..."

Wow, that....that is something he did not coming. Though some of his friends had pointed out signs that Rogers had feelings for him, Tony had not believed it. Until now.

“Wow. Ok I was not expecting that. Your feelings are your own Rogers, and I won’t judge you. " Though he was disgusted in the inside, he would not laugh at Rogers. He could be the better person and give him that curtsy. "But do get it on your head, I’m not interested. I’m in a great relationship right now, and I Yelena very much. So do not try to get in your head that you have a chance, because I’m telling you, you don’t.”

“Ah, I’m glad I have such a loyal boyfriend.” Yelena said, entering the room and standing at Tony’s side.

Tony smiled at her. She came just in time.

Tony kissed her right on those precious lips. Ignoring Rogers completely.

“Happy got the dogs in the plane. We are ready to go ?”

“Absolutely. I just dropped the last things for Bruce to run the labs while I’m gone. We are ready.”

“Good good.” She said.

She then turned to Steve, and gave him a harsh glare.

“Peace of advice Mr. Rogers. Tony doesn’t care for you....but I love him. And if you, My “dear” sister, or any of you get any ideas to hurt him...I will make you pay. Just mark my words...Ms. Maximoff learned on the hard way now.”

Tony felt good about those words....and then he

“Wait, what did you do to Maximoff ?” Tony asked.

“Nothing major babe. All in within the law and guidelines of the Accords. Val and I just wanted to make sure she knew not to mess with our favorite scientist again,”

“Well....I hope FRIDAY has footage for that. Anyway, should we go ?” He asked her. Leaving with her, leaving Rogers behind.

Tony felt a pleseant feeling going towards him.

This was the test he needed. The proof for himself that Rogers meant nothing to him.

He had passed, and he was happy about it.

As a reward, he enjoyed the footage of Yelena and Valkyrie shaving Maximoff's hair, and covering her skin with paint. How she did not wake up, he knew it had been Loki's responsibility. He did not care though, this was hilarious.

7 Months later.

They had done it, Thanos was dead.

After two weeks of fighting, of slowly but surely defeating the Titan's forces, the time came that Thanos had no choice but to come himself.

The fight was tough, but in the end, they did it. Tony, Carol, and the Hulk held down Thanos long enough, so Thor could come in and chop the Titan's head, ending his reign of terror.

Everyone celebrated after it was done. People ran and hugged their loved ones.

Tony searched, and found Rhodey first, who embraced him in a brotherly hug. He did not have to look farther as Yelena collided with him. Her uniform had a bit of blood from Thanos' top general, who she took down with Valkyrie, but he did not care. He hugged and kissed her. They were alive, they had won.

Soon Peter was there as well, and it became a big hug that almost squishes Tony, specially since Thor decided to get involved.

What Tony did not see, was Steve looking at him from behind, with a pained expression.

The Rouge Avengers had not been vital to the fight. They had stuck to the minions all the time.

Two days later, a party was made to celebrate their victory.

Everyone had come. Everyone was celebrating.

Peter and Scott were competing over the dance floor. Mantis cheered for her brother, while Gamora and Hope looked amused at their boyfriends' antics. They were clearly enjoying it.

Rhodey, Carol, and Sharon were over the pool table. With the Captain having her arms on her cousin. Tony had the talk with her, and he is confident his cousin is in good arms. As for Rhodey, well he knew his friend had been seeing Laura former Barton and....well it was just a matter of wait and see.

His eye went to were the Wakandians were enjoying themselves, and he crossed eyes with James Barnes. Tony nodded at him, and he returned it. He no longer saw the man as the one that killed his parents. Just a man that had been dealt a rough hand. They were not close friends, but they wished each other the best. Sam Wilson was also among that group. Having finally gotten his rose colored Captain America glasses off, he joined with James and the Wakandians. He doesn't wonder what Rogers thinks of his two friends bonding together.

The Asgardians were around the whole party. . Thor and Jane were having a moment in the balcony. While Bruce was sitting in the bar with Valkyrie, who was having a drinking contest with one Jessica Jones. Bruce at least had Darcy for company, as the two science lovers were there while their girlfriends drank. Loki.....well he had seen him a while ago, but he disappeared with Stephen. He doesn't want to think about it more.

Peter and Vision were sitting and chatting, and it warmed his heart to see that his two "sons" were there, just being happy.

Then, from the corner of his eye, he found the four people he did not care about.

Rogers and his friends were just sitting there, being ignored. Romanoff started either at Bruce, or Yelena, who ignored her. Maximoff looked at Vision, who was done with her. Barton was just nursing a bottle.

Rogers was looking down, and then their eyes met.

He has no idea what the man thought, because he stood up and went to Tony.

Seems like the man still needs to learn a lesson.

"Hey." He asked Yelena, who stood at his side.

"Hum ?"

"Marry me ?"

Her features showed some suprise, but then she smiled.

"Of course."

He kissed his now fiancee, enjoying the moment.

He did over heard Rogers giving a broken sigh, no doubt hearing that with his hearing. But Tony did not care.

What is gonna happen to the Rouges is now a mystery. Sam is going back to Wakanda, but the others, who knows. Clint and Natasha are not behaving well in the new SHIELD, and Wanda is close to making the Sorcerers snap (he over heard about her retainer, one Agatha Harkness, and it made him scared) and they might take more drastic measures.

Rogers is now alone on the Avengers. His allies either being taken away, or leaving him. There is a big chance he might snap.

When that happens, it won't be Tony's trouble.

Steve Rogers means nothing to him now. That part of his life is over.

He now has a future with Yelena, something to look forward too, and with this new freedom, Tony can't wait for it to come.