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Chapter Text

“I am Iron Man”

Tony snaps his finger and wills from stones to erase the existence of Thanos from this galaxy and to never return. Blind light illuminated as all the stones rushed to fulfil the wish of their wielder forcing everyone to shut their eyes but it was all different for Tony, his hand burned to the intensity that he couldn’t even breathe properly. The energy from the infinity was latching onto his flesh travelling all over his hand and face to the all of his left side in search of the anchor to balance the amount of energy that surged with in the gauntlet, which stopped from spreading further to his right when it found the reactor and latched onto it, but the path it took leaves behind the scarred molten flesh which can never be recovered, that is, if Tony survives this. 

When the light dims bringing them back to the reality everything was paused, none were doing anything, too stunned to take any action. Only the heavy breaths of the fighters can be heard in the silence.

“What did you do?” Thanos asks, stupefied that a mortal has used all the stones that he had worked all his life for and he knew what for but couldn’t accept his defeat. Not Now, Not After he killed his daughter to get here. “WHAT DID YOU DO?” Thanos shouts, his voice thundered onto the silent ground. 

The heroes flinched unintentionally, especially the Subs who were all participating in this battle except Tony. He met eyes with Thanos and with all the strength that was left he smirked it worsened Thanos's anger and he ran forward toward Tony which sent the heroes nearby into action only to be stopped as they saw Thanos turning into dust with every step he took, soon was followed his army that screams in agony for losing their leader. The cheering started throughout the field by everyone, Tony swept his gazes in every direction feeling the warmth of seeing his friends and family alive and safe from the nightmare he had been living with for six years. He gives out a relieved breath and sinks back into the rock behind him, satisfied that he is leaving a safe world for his people.

Rhodey was the first one to reach by his side, and one look at his friend and he knew that this is it. Since the day he met Tony,  he had thousands of unlikely scenario where Tony could die but in all those he knew for sure that he wouldn’t. He would bypass all of them with his genius mind but this time even if he wanted to he couldn’t. 

Tony saw the grief in his friend's eyes, he wanted to comfort him, tell him that it is ok, everything will be ok, that it is his time now and he would wait up there for him, but what came out of his mouth was a puff of air, not having enough strength to form words. He watched his friend pulling away defeated and he could do nothing. His breath was getting shortened with every breath that he took, his eyes were drooping, his mind was sluggish-ly shutting down. He felt someone coming in front of him but he could not decipher who, he can hear them saying something but sounded gibberish before he could concentrate the person was pulled away, he whimpered, wanting to hold whoever that was but couldn’t. After fighting continuously against his body to make a simple response he could finally see through the hazy gaze, It was now Pepper in front of him, whose eyes were leaking tears continuously. He tried to hold his hand up and wipe those tears from her face, wanting to give a little comfort, only for him to fail and slump back down further. He knew he was drifting off but he tried to hold on, for a while longer, just a little bit more. But not, the pain on his sides flared, and the energy that was channelled through his body was eating away his flesh. He tried so hard and then didn’t. He let himself drift off, giving in to his fate and just letting go. And before he finally succumbed to the darkness he heard her words.

“You can rest Now...”

~•~°~•~

Tony's body was laid down in the open plane that had no end, the sky there was flaring with green, purple, yellow, orange, red, and blue. Tony jerks awake as if he was poked to wake up. He gulped in a large breath and sat up at an inhuman speed, frantically looking over his surroundings only to find himself all alone. 
“Wh- What... Where... Where am I?” He questions himself, standing up and turning around searching for anything, any familiarity he could have of this but there was none. He let his mind wander thinking of the possibilities for where he could be. The last thing he remembers is the battlefield where they had won but not him. He made sure that everyone on Earth lived, but he did not. He took his last breath trying to convey his goodbyes to his friends and family but before that, only he was pulled into sleep and now he was waking up here alone, so that meant he was dead for sure, and he is ready to bet his fortune that this was not heaven, because hello! Merchant of Death. He is damn sure he has his spot reserved in hell maybe beside Howard, or in the golden company of Asgardian's Evil Prince Loki. Loki? Why is he thinking about Loki? Nevermind, he is dead now just like Loki and how the hell is described in the books he feels that he would be put together with Killian or Stane of all people because universe loves to fuck with him, so he shouldn’t be surprised but first he needs to search for a life in this place. Life? More like ghosts. Am I a ghost now?  Can I go back to Earth and haunt the people back there, especially Rogers,  Fury, Ross, and he might try for Wanda too, who knows he might actually be able to discard her power this time around since he is a ghost. 

*Chuckling*

Tony soon went defensive as he heard the chuckles in different voices, he shouted “Who is there?” When he got no response he asked again “C'mon come out! Who are you?” When he still didn’t get any answer he got agitated. Impatiently twisting around in every direction to search for the person but he could only see the vast field out there bare of a land, just a free space, like a void. 

“Do not worry Anthony,  we do not mean any harm.”   ~Time

“Where are you? Who are you? Come in front then I will decide how harmless you are lady”

“You know us.” ~Space sing songs. 

“Us?  Us who? Show your face then only I can try to remember who the hell you ladies are. Hold on is this has something to do with my back adventures,  you know when I was living the title of a playboy, did I offend you in some way that you are now here for the retribution or something”

“Ewww, NO. It has nothing to do with that” ~Space

“Wish I could have the pleasure, huh”  ~Mind, chortled only to be shushed by others for his dirty mind? Thoughts! 

Tony raised his eyebrows at that, amused with such a remark. He smirked “Sorry Mi Lady, I have come past that era so I couldn’t pleasure you anymore. You could have come earlier and I might have given you the best night to remember.” Tony winked in the general direction of the voice to make his intentions a bit more clear. 

“Ohh, worry not Mr. Stark I would then send you way back to the time when I could happily be with you for one night” ~Mind spoke lust clearly seeping through her voice. 

“Mind!!!” ~Time

“For the sake of the universe,  leave my champion” ~Space

“You are disgusting!” ~Power

“I am not surprised even a bit” ~Reality

“huh” ~Soul sighed, she didn't know why they expected the mind to behave when they clearly knew she wouldn’t. 

And Tony, he stood there unmoved, his jaws hitting the floor. It took him a few seconds to follow up on the conversations that happened all at once and he realised what had been said he clamped his mouth shut in horror and then went on the questioning tirade “What the fuck does that mean you will send me back? What does this mind mean? Are you the horny lady is named Mind? And what is this champion thing, whose champion and what for? What is happening here? Who are you guys?-”

“Oh dear breathe” ~Soul says cutting him off in mid-rant. Tony did take a deep breath at that. When Soul confirmed that he was calmed a bit she continued “You have met us recently, in our solid forms, and we are the reason behind your death and you being here. We are the Infinity Stones, as you know us by.”

Tony gaped in the direction of the voice, his mind was rapidly working searching for the reason why. And what he concluded made him shiver,  his face left all the colour that it had, he stupidly stammering, asked “Did we fail?”

“No. You did Not Anthony” ~Time

“But?”

“But, the longevity of the universe you just preserved wouldn’t last” ~Reality

“Why? You said we won, that means Thanos is gone forever, then why not?” Tony asks, his voice choking at every word. He couldn’t fathom that whatever he did to protect them went in vain. 

“You did what you could Tony, but the destruction was already done. To keep up the universe alive and going it needs us as an anchor, we are just not some important stones,  we are a necessity, Tony. Without us, the universe will unravel and it will cease to exist a good few decades later.” ~Power explained as humbly as she could. 

Tony breaths heavily at it remembering that the stones of his universe is already been destroyed by Thanos and the one he just used are the ones they borrowed from other universes and they are ought to be returned unless they want to start another branch in the timelines and destroy them too. His eyes prick as tears start filling those in despair of losing the one win they had. He implores “How can we save it? What can I do? What should I do? I... We fought... We did everything we could and still... Please... Tell me what to do?”

“There is no other way except one” ~Power offers quietly. 

“What- What it is? Tell me,  I would do anything”

“But it asks price, would you be able to pay Tony” ~Mind questions. 

“Anything. What it is.” Tony said without taking a second to think for what is he agreeing with, his mind was revolving around his family,  his Rhodey,  Pepper,  Peter,  Morgan, Bruce, Happy,  May everyone he cared about even Strange. Who all are going to die in a decade or two because this universe couldn’t hold it without stones and they don’t have it. He died with a belief that he saved them but he hasn’t and now he possibly couldn’t. He now remembered about Strange and knew why he almost dropped into the subspace on the Titan if he hadn’t been there to hold him, he knew what he was sending Tony to,  he has seen the future, he knew Tony had to die to get there one win and now knowing that it was all lie, he didn’t know what will happen of Strange when he will realize what is happening, and he would, and then he would die knowing that he caused Tony to die for nothing and it would be great set back for him. And Peter, Oh his Peter who held too much hope in his bambi eyes when he came 5 years later for a better life, he had a hope seeing all the help they had for the win only for Tony to die and for him to follow after and it hurts him to even think that Peter would in all his concise with all his strength would try to save as many as he can only for them die since they are not supposed to live against the law of the universe. His Morgan, Oh his sweet little girl, he doubts she would even grow before the world ends. His heart hurts thinking of Pepper and Rhodey who would be scrapping for every bit of their resources to try and pave a new path that leads to their victory only to fail because they are destined to fail. He can’t have that, he can’t let that happen if he can stop it by any means necessary. And he would pay anything he had to in a heartbeat if it means he can save them, his friends, his family, his world. 

“You sure you will” ~Reality asks tentatively. 

“Yes”

Time, took it upon herself to explain what they have in their bucket “To be honest, Anthony, there is no way to save this universe, it is doomed beyond our capacity. No please, hear me out first. The only way to prevent this is to send you back and the time you are sent back this future will cease to exist. You will know what is going to happen but at the same time you don’t. For you, you know what to expect to happen within the next second if you follow up the same steps but the moment you made even a minute change you will have a clean slate in front of you. You would know what has to be changed but you wouldn’t know of what you can’t. There are some fixed points they are supposed to take place no matter however you try to change, the universe would bend itself to make it happen. You will have a chance but you will be blind to the path. You will remember but people around you won’t. You will lose the people you hold close to your heart just because they are yet to enter in your life and it is not surety that this time they will be there. You can’t change too much neither can you let it be.”

Space took further from there “You will not in any circumstances would remove the reactor from yourself, it is but a means to harbour a part of me and a passage for us to make secure connection with your mind without harming your body. You will have to let the first Battle of New York happen on it’s decided term, you cannot interfere with that neither can you interfere with the formation of Dr. Banner-”

“Hold on hold on... What the fucking hell do you mean I can not interfere with Bruce's transformation and why would I let Loki invade my home when that's the reason I will be sent back in the first place” Tony shot out, his body was trembling with rage. First he was in agreement when Time put forward what he should expect about the changes he have to make, that he could be allowed to make, he understands pretty well that playing with time is no easy feat even when she herself is involved in such a gamble. It hurts him to know that all the people he currently knew wouldn’t be the same one when he goes back and the only consolation he has is that they will still be his, he would know that he was in right to put his blind trust in his people but he couldn’t contain his anger on hearing that he had to let Loki harm his home again. He was the one who started this game and when he is going back in time to fix the mess that he created then how can these stones ask him to let him graze his planet.”

“Loki is not the reason” ~Mind screeched making Tony take a jump back, “do not denigrate my champion”. 

“But he attacked-“

“Not of his own free will, Anthony” ~Soul 

“What does that mean?” Tony asks even though he knew what that meant but he do not want to accept it, how can he forget that battle when it kept him awake all night from the time it happened but somewhere deep in his heart he knew it is what it is because that’s what Bruce has said 'Thanos is a plaque Tony, New York, he was the one who sent Loki.'

“He was not a willing participant in whatever happened” ~Reality spoke, her voice heavy in grief “He accepted the sceptre only because he doesn’t want to be hurt anymore.”

Tony stumbled back as a scene formed in front of him from out of nothing... 

••• Loki was dangling into the space with his hold firm on a spear whose end was held by Thor. There was one more person who has an eye patch possibly their father who spoke none too gently “No Loki”. 

Loki's heart broke at that and he let go. 

After falling into the void he ended up on the sanctuary, not naturally though,  he was pulled out of the void by the Generals of that ship knowing the ability their new recruit possessed. As soon as he landed he was put in cuffs and hauled to his cell. And then the tortures begin, of every kind anyone can think of. There were too many horrors to go through but still, he didn’t break, and then they started another tactic, they started to torture him sexually, he didn’t last long then, he did break. He just wanted for the pain to stop and it could if only he accepted his task to retrieve the tesseract from Midgard. 

“I will do it, I will do everything you say but just stop, please... Please.”

Thanos stood up from his throne and stalked to where Loki was dumped on the floor, as he came to stand in front of Loki, Loki stilled trying not to even breathe long in fear of being punished again. Thanos put the sharp end of the sceptre that held Mind stone, under the tip of Loki's chin tilting his head up “Do you pledge your loyalty, Slave.”

“Yes-Yes, Master.”

Thanos grinned and thrust forward the sceptre claiming Loki's mind within a second. 

“Sire?!”

“Do you really think I would believe the words of Liesmith, Now there is no worry for him to deceive us, he is ours to play. Slave?”

“Yes Master” Loki stood up, back straight but head bowed down in the submission for his master, there was no defiance left in him. He was Thanos’s puppet through and through. 
“Before you leave for Midgard I want you to pleasure me.”

“As you wish, Master.” Loki spoke stoically, no emotions crossed his face when he knelt down coming with face to face with Thanos's cock and moved to do as ordered. •••

Tony tripped as he tried to stay as far away as he could from the scene that was playing out, he twisted in a hurry and threw up the bile that came out of his empty stomach. He can not in any circumstances would have thought that someone could be this cruel. As the scene unfolded his hatred for Thanos grew more and more. The release he had given to Thanos and the army was too peaceful for what they deserved. He should have waited, he should have cut him to his death piece by piece, drawing out the revenge which Loki deserves. Oh Loki, he can not think of what Loki might have been feeling, he was tortured and raped into submission and was sent as a puppet whose strings was in Thanos's hands, and was thrashed by Hulk only to followed by imprisonment in the dungeons for a lifetime. Oh God, if anyone it was Loki who deserved the peace and love and care and the right to be listened but what they gave, nothing. And over that, they put him in muzzle taking away his right to even defend himself. No doubt he faked his death. Now knowing what has happened his rage for Loki on Thanos increased especially now when he remembered that Thanos was the one who killed Loki by breaking his neck making his skin shimmer with anger and fire that was burning in his blood, he just wanted to go back right now and torture that smirk off Thanos’s face from when Loki submitted. 

“Protect him, please” ~Soul requested. 

“Oh,  I will... Tell me to what time I am going back and what are the conditions I am to abide by.”

“First and foremost thing that you have to remember is that even if you do not want you have to let Loki fall” ~Mind mentions. 

“WHAT?? Are you out of your mind?  WHY THE HELL WOULD I LEAVE LOKI THERE”

“Because you have to, if it is not Loki who leads the invasion then you would be doomed however much you try. Loki even though was mind-controlled he has a sense left in him that helped him botch the invasion as much as he could to the point that he didn’t use his magic to subdue you but if it is someone else then they wouldn’t think anything except the destruction. They would only be concerned about how much can they do to please Thanos, and what is the possibility that this person wouldn’t choose another place to attack than somewhere where there are high chances for heroes to pop up and be a hurdle in their way.” ~Space explained as humbly as she could. 

“He does not deserve that” Tony mumbles, tears rolling down his eyes. How can he in his concise be ok with knowing that when he was given a second chance to make things for himself good he had to send Loki to suffer in that place again, he won’t be able to live with that. 

“You will have to find the way for him to be pulled out sooner than it happened in here. That’s the only help you can give him at that moment and when he is with you, you can stop him from suffering further and give him the time to heal and have a chance at enacting the revenge that he had been planning only to be crushed due to Odin's lies. And most importantly this is the only way to acquire the Mind.” ~Soul said. 

“You will help him in his revenge not only from Thanos but Odin too, will you?” ~Mind inquires meekly, with a belief that he sure would. 

“Yes... Yes of course... There is no doubt. So when can we start.”

“Soon,  but before that, I would like to let you know a few things that you can change. We do not in any circumstances want SHIELD to be involved with you because they will only be a hindrance nothing else. They had known of Major Danvers but their ego didn’t allow them to ask for her help. If she had been there things would have been quite different and might have been in your favour. She would have known how to handle an infinity stone” Tony nodded agreeing to whatever Power said,  to be honest, he too didn’t want any involvement of SHIELD in his life unless it was life and death situation and he would want to make as much distance from the rouges as much as he can. 

Getting the confirmation Power continues “It might be much better if you can avoid Ultron and the formation of Vision”

“But Viz-“

“Is vulnerable when and if he is in the company of Scarlet Witch, especially with Mind stone at display, it is not safe for him and also what is the use of him if you already have JARVIS”

“I don’t have-...  Oh My God I CAN HAVE MY JARVIS BACK.”

Soul chuckles “Yes Anthony you will have JARVIS back. That is all you have to keep in your priority as the time passes we would let you know what should you take care of. And also try not to die.”

“That is going to be hard”

They all giggled at his admission because they knew he is right given his luck. Mind picked the conversation up “And now to the last part before we send you back... You are not going to interfere whenever the heroes such as Hulk,  Spiderman or Captain America to be found. You can befriend them but can not under any condition stop them from getting their enhancements.”

“Yeah, ok. Be friends but let them go to juice up alright that I can do but Cap, he is still is a no-no for me.”

Reality spoke “That is all alright but it will be advisable if you could avoid data dump and civil war from happening.”

Tony shivered as he was reminded of that horrendous day of learning about his mother. He couldn’t form words so he just nodded. 

“Now to the last part, my champion, Dr. Stephen Strange. I would like to make a request for you to save him” ~Time almost pleads. 

“Save? From whom?”

“From his partner. We will be sending you to the time when you can help him save from his current partner who is been abusing him in the name of being his dominant. This is what had made Stephen lose his trust and compassion towards other humans, especially dominants.” Tony cursed using a few colourful words that would put him in shame when he would later remember what he had said in presence of such a deity who holds the universe together. “I am thinking of giving him his memories and powers back whenever you think will not affect him the most. If he has his powers he would be of a great help to you regarding not only Thanos but also for healing your chest. If you want him to have his powers later on then you have to wait until he comes under the car accident that crushed his hands and he made his path to Kamar-Taj”

“Nu-uh nope... No accidents... I want his powers to be with him from now on, it’s good I will have someone who could understand what I am doing and why it is necessary and also it might keep my head sane knowing someone is there with me who knows and I won’t think it as an illusion.”

“As you wish, but I would suggest you to call upon us when you have rescued him and he is cured and in a healthy environment, then would I update his memory and powers because it is a possibility that it would not be good for his body for this transformation. He will be weakened for a few days until he can use his strength for normal day-to-day work.” ~Time concludes. 

“Okay, so first up rescue Dr. Wizard from his bad boyfriend and then bring him to bouncing health to give him the magic potion. Keep SHIELD away contact Carol, be friend but do not interfere with Brucie bear and Petey-pie, stay ten feet away from Capity Cap, Find a way to bring Loki here (First priority), Ultron and Vision no-no, No data dump,  No Civil War, and not die... Ok, think I got it all... Let’s hit the road then.” Tony clapped his hand and made himself ready to be sent back. 

“Yes, you got all that. So we are sending you back before Natasha was sent to your company but after the senate hearing. You will be sent to the place where Stephen is right now along with your suit. Do not change too much, Good luck.” 

~•~°~•~

Tony landed somewhere in New York in front of an apartment with his suit on him. He was disoriented for a moment but stood straight and took a deep breath only to choked when he heard... 

“Sir!”

“JARVIS... Is that you bud?” he asked trying his hardest to not start bawling there itself. 

“Yes Sir, For You, Always”

“Oh JARVIS, buddy... My boy, I have so much to say to”

“We will have time Sir, but first I believe we are here to rescue the doctor.”

“You know!!!  How?” Tony asks, shocked that JARVIS already knew even when he hadn’t said a word since he came back. 

“Yes, I do. I suppose I was there when you were talking to the stones and also flirting with Mind Stone.”

Tony squeaks “I did not do that... She started.” Tony started walking over to the door while his heart was doing a jumping dance... He can not in any words describe how he is feeling having his JARVIS back. When he had lost him, it felt like there is was a gap formed in his soul which now felt filled up to the brim just knowing of his presence. He didn’t know JARVIS was that important to him. 

“Yeah, you didn’t. Where even you do such things.” JARVIS replied back, he did not know how and why he was here updated with the memory from his future and past his death. In front he is trying to keep the chatter with his Sir and behind he is making a list of the suspects who are going to have to face him before coming even in the mile radius of Sir. 

Tony laughs, hearing JARVIS sass with him, it is so refreshing to talk with him. It feels like he was never gone he knew he will break down but later,  first, he has to save a certain wizard. He opened the door and entered the hall only to be stopped dead in his tracks, face losing all colours. The only thing he can hear at that moment was Stephen's screaming.... 

“Red. Red. Red. Red. Red. Red...”

Next up:  Tony and Pepper take care of traumatized Stephen who is so far gone that he can not decide if these new doms are gonna hurt him more or what is exactly their purpose. 
 

Chapter Text

It took him quite a while to understand the scene that was presented in front of him. Stephen's scream was deafening his ears. He was jammed on his spot. In front of him was Stephen strapped on the bench, naked, his legs pulled apart and tied to an angle that would not be comfortable for anyone for a long period. He couldn't see but he for sure knew that something was shoved inside him since he could see Stephen writhing in bondage trying to push that thing out without any success. The straps used on him were too tight and he knew it might be bruising the skin under the leather along with stopping the blood flow.

His abuser was there near his face holding him up by hairs. They were too involved in the scene to even notice the intruders.

"Please... Please... Red. Red. Please... Stop. Red. Red. Red. I can't. Please..." Stephen sobs, pleading with his partner to Stop, to let him know that it isn't pleasurable anymore, he is hurting and he wants it to Stop. He wants his dom to hold him and remove the fears that crept into his mind but he also knows that this same person is the reason for the fear to grow. But still, every time he hopes, hopes that maybe this time his voice will be heard.

"I didn't hear what you said dear, could you try again and please be a little louder?"

Stephen sobs he knows what's going to happen next if he says to stop. He didn't know what to say anymore. He wants everything to stop, to stop everything that is happening, to stop hurting but he does not want to go through what would follow if he says No.

Tony felt sick in his stomach seeing how scared Stephen was to ask to stop. His body shivered in rage and at the same time, JARVIS took the initiative and charged the repulsor to the maximum capacity that would hurt the man most but would not kill. He was thinking about how to approach the best but then it happened, that asshole clutched Stephen's hair and pushed his head down, going to dunk it in the bucket of water kept over there. Tony sees red at that and his own flashback kicks in and he without hesitation blasts the bastard away from Stephen. 

Stephen was startled by the noise of the blast that was too close to him. He cried trying to scramble back and away from the happenings but that was the mistake. He forgot that he was strapped down, and his muscles got pulled which pain to the point that he screamed his throat raw. 

Tony was satisfied seeing the body that lay on the floor, the slow up and down of the dump confirmed the asshole still being alive but half of his face and shoulder got burned. That helped calm his soul from the raging anger. His assessment soon ended when he heard Stephen scream. 

He tumbled hurriedly towards Stephen and whispered as lowly as he could so that he didn't sound threatening "Hey, hey easy... Easy sweetheart. Everything is going to be fine now. No one will hurt you anymore. Can you hear me Steph?"

Stephen's mouth clamped shut trying to hold his sobs when he felt a presence near him, not knowing what would happen to him if he continued to be a nuisance. And tried to do as he was asked, when he was asked a question he just nodded not wanting to deny anything anymore. He is facing the consequences of denying once and he didn't know if this new dom would be lenient or would be more harsher than Michael. 

"Sir, I would suggest freeing him from the bonds should be a priority now,  it might help him understand your intentions are not to hurt him further more," JARVIS suggested. 

"Yeah yeah right...  Bonds free... Ok, I can do that." Tony mumbled to himself and moved to touch Stephen who flinched away from him and hurt himself again. "Hey hey shush... Stay still ok? Just do not move ok."

And that's what it took for Stephen to go deathly still, not wanting to upset the new dom. Tony groaned seeing the reaction and moved to ease him. 

"No no no... That wasn't an order sweetheart. I just wanted you to be relaxed ok? I am going to touch you yeah, can I" Stephen nodded stiffly,  Tony softly put his hand on Stephen's forehead, and slowly and gently he pushed the hairs back that had fallen there, and then he gently scrapped his scalp, playing with his hair. 

"Is this ok dear heart" 

Stephen whimpered, he felt overwhelmed by the gentle touch he was feeling without any meanness. He didn't remember when was the last time he felt such gentleness. And this time when he was asked he said yes because he wanted to. 

"I am going to unstrap you, ok darling. You are doing so well. Such a good boy you are. Just stay like that yeah and we will be done. Can you do that for me?" Tony reassures Stephen while moving nearer the straps, praises were falling from his lips unbidden. 

Stephen keened hearing the praises and cried too since it's been so long since he did something good. He keeps screwing everything and thus lose the privilege of being given praises. 

Tony worked quickly on the straps on his both hands then he moved to behind and stopped gritting his teeth when he spotted a plug snug between his legs. He growled thinking if Stephen wanted it out that meant he did not consent to it. Stephen stilled there again thinking it was he who had done something which caused the dom to be angry. Tony noticed that so he rubbed his palm over Stephen’s back, consoling him. Keeping his hand in a small touch he approached to face Stephen. Pushing the bucket far away he squatted in front of him to come to his level. 

“Hey, honey. Can you look up at me? Yeah just like that, c'mon a little more. That’s my pretty boy.”

Stephen was shocked by the gentleness he was shown and was more shocked when his eyes met with the person who was being so caring to him. He wouldn’t have ever dreamt of this person being none other than TONY STARK...  This was the man he had wanted to meet, his inventions were drool-worthy, and he hadn’t liked him earlier when he was a weapon manufacturer but since Tony stopped that side of the business he had always wanted to meet him especially to know more about the technology he had come back with. Soon that shock turned into mortification when he realized in what state he was, he lowered his head and whimpered. 

Tony watched closely how Stephen's reaction changed from shock to being in awe and then defeated humiliation, and his head drooped snivelling. It didn’t take him long to understand what was going on in Stephen’s mind. He moves a little forward and delicately holds Stephen's face in his hands, forcing him a little to look up and then using his thumb to wipe away the tears that came rolling down. 

“Nu-uh, none of that sweetheart, it’s ok, yeah. I understand, you don’t need to feel embarrassed. This is not your fault, yeah, it’s ok, everything is going to be ok. I will make it ok. You should not be ashamed of yourself, that bastard is the one who put you in this position you didn’t choose for it.” Stephen shakes his head repeatedly, denying it, Tony holds his face stopping him “I know... I know you didn’t. And it’s ok. You are too good. Answering all my questions. Such a sweetheart you are. Would you answer one more question for me?”

Stephen flushed at hearing the praise from him. He nodded, mumbling “Yes, Sir”. 

“Good good... Such a good boy. Would you tell me if you consented for this scene to happen or not?”

Stephen flinched as if struck, for a while he had forgotten everything that was happening but when reminded he could feel the pain everywhere on his body, especially on his lower body. He looked at Tony and then tried to remember the question he was asked and his face filled with shame because he hadn’t said No, in fact, he wasn’t even asked if he was interested. Michael decided for both of them and he didn’t find the courage to say No. He had done it once and the consequences for it were too harsh that he did not want a repeat of that so he stayed quiet. 

Tony understood the silence very well and the reason behind that decision too. He changed the question “Did he give you any options to choose?” Stephen shakes his head confirming his doubt, he glances at the unconscious body and feels the need to kill him permanently. “I’ll deal with this motherfucker personally.” 

Stephen looked at him wide-eyes he stuttered “Bu-But he... He and... And I”. 

“He does not deserve you.”

With the conviction Tony said, something warm filled in Stephen's chest. He felt lighter knowing that there was someone who agreed with it. He had tried to break up with him far earlier thinking Michael was not the one for him but everyone else convinced him that he was the only one who could handle him and he was far much better than what Stephen deserved. He stayed but then he couldn’t leave. And today when he found one person who thought Michael was wrong, a little bit of hope arose in him and he pleaded “Save me, please Sir, I will always be in debt to you but please... Save me”. 

Tony couldn’t see Stephen pleading with him like that. The memory he had had of this wonderful doctor was of when he was this strong and brave, and now seeing him this vulnerable tugged something in his heart, he moved and cradled Stephen's head in between his shoulders pulling him closer. He pressed a soft kiss on that hair and promised “I promise, I will save you.”

They stayed in the embrace for a while longer but after that, Tony helped remove the straps from his legs massaging his thigh muscles to ease a little bit of pain, after that, he left the place in search of clothes for Stephen giving him a little bit of privacy to remove the plug, for which Stephen felt grateful. 

Tony came back with a duffle bag filled with things of Stephen that he thought might be essential and also a spare pair of jeans and a T-shirt with a blazer to wear. He helped Stephen dress. “Ready to go dear?” he asked. 

Stephen looked around at the place which used to be his home but he never felt it. His eyes then fell on Michael and he shuddered in fear, instinctively moving nearer to Tony he mumbled “Yes Sir.”

Tony held his hand and took him outside, his suit followed behind him. He asked JARVIS to leave whereas he would take a cab with Stephen. After the suit flew away Tony called for a cab and both of them settled in with Stephen snuggled beside Tony. When they took the first turn on their way out, from the corner of his eyes Tony noticed one of his company-issued cars was coming in and going in the direction of the apartment they just left. He smirks, he so loves JARVIS. 

It took them quite a while to reach the mansion and by then Stephen was asleep curled in Tony's lap. Tony looked down at him, his face softened seeing Stephen this way but it hurt to notice the fear that was so itched in his mind that his body even while sleeping was stiff, ready to bolt at any sign of threat. He dropped his hand on his hair petting him, he woke him up slowly. 

“Steph, can you wake up please, we have reached.”

Stephen was startled at that and woke up with a yelp frantically looking here and there with his hand coming up to protect his face. Tony cursed at that wanting to go back and beat the shit out of that man. Tony's voice got his attention and the memory of past hour came rushing to his mind and he relaxed but did apologize “I am sorry sir... For- for being an in-inconvenience and making a sce-scene.” He bowed his head to hide his shame. When he felt Tony's eyes staring at him he became agitated and started squirming at his place hoping that he would not be punished but at the same time waiting for the slap to come and strike him. 

Tony was counting the numbers in his head trying his very hard not to just turn around and kill that abusive asshole. He kept staring at Stephen wondering what should he do or say to make him understand this little bit so that he would not hit him. It took him a minute longer to notice that Stephen was feeling very uncomfortable and was truly scared by his silence. He sighed and then spoke choosing his words cleverly hoping that it might ease Stephen. 

“Hey, it’s ok. No harm done. You are not in any trouble and neither are you any inconvenience to me ok. And for tonight whatever you say or do will be forgiven. Tomorrow we will talk and then decide how to proceed okay? For today just relax, Alright.”

Stephen nodded grateful for being given the leeway for tonight but also dreading for what would tomorrow bring. He did not know what to expect since no one had any idea how Tony Stark is with subs, everyone knew about his performance in bed but no one knew how does he deals with subs. Will he be patient or will he be the one with short temperament? He doesn’t know and since he can’t go back to his place he does not know where he is going to stay, what would he tell others, how would they react, what if they blame him for Michael and what if being with him for a night Stark decided he is not worth his time then? Maybe it is a test, a test to see what he would do when given freedom, yes, that’s what it is. A test, and he did not know what would happen if he failed, what if he is given back to Michael. No no no no this can not happen he can’t fail, he has to be good. He has to behave good so that there would not be a reason to give him back and after that when he gets his belongings he would run away, till then he had to be good. 

“Stephen?” Tony called startling Stephen again “Hey, hey it’s just me, Tony. We have reached home buddy, let’s get in, alright.”

Stephen obediently did as was asked and came out of the cab to go inside. All the way until he was in Stephen kept his head down, not wanting to offend the billionaire but he couldn’t keep his eyes on the floor when he entered inside, the mansion was big and beautiful, he had always dreamt of making such for himself when he would earn, and now standing inside one felt like a dream come true. His eyes were covering every corner of the place amused and excited. 

Tony stood beside him, putting Stephen's bag down he watched the excitement that filled inside Stephen. It made him happy to see a positive expression on Stephen's face. 

Both were standing in silence admiring the house and the other respectively when JARVIS greeted them startling both of them “Welcome Home Sir, Doctor Strange.”

Both the men jumped at that, Stephen for not knowing who and where this person was and for Tony he had completely forgotten where he was and now when he was in his home the one which got blown up several years ago he is finally realising what is happening. He has come back, he travelled back in time. He was running on adrenalin until now. His mind was occupied by the anger for Stephen and also his safety but now when he had rescued Stephen he was finally realising that mere hours ago he was dead and now he is alive and standing in his home that wasn’t supposed to be here that too with JARVIS whom he got killed, and Stephen whom he would have met six years later in time. He was spiralling, everything that he had pushed aside to deal with Stephen's situation came crashing with full force. His knees became weak and he for sure was going to drop down when JARVIS talked back. 

“Sir, SIR I suggest you introduce Doctor Strange to the surroundings first and then retire for your much-needed bath.”

Tony nodded but he knew he wouldn’t be able to stay long so he stuttered “Uh... Stephen meet JARVIS” he gulped, reliving how it felt to call JARVIS and have him to respond back. “He is a sentient Artificial Intelligence named Just a Rather Very Intelligent System, in short JARVIS. He looks after me and this home. His eyes and ears are everywhere in this house. He looks after the residents and is very helpful so feel free to ask him anything and yeah he would show you the house and to your room. So I get to go, yeah I have to go, JARVIS help our guest, bye-bye.” Tony spoke everything in one breath and then ran away without glancing behind. 

Stephen stood there stunned not being able to decipher anything that was said except JARVIS being an artificial intelligence. His eyes couldn’t go wider knowing that AI exists but then he is Stark if anyone then it’s him who can make this possible. He was caught up in his amusement it took a few moments for JARVIS to get his attention. And then Stephen panicked about ignoring JARVIS, what if he was given an instruction and he missed it, however much he tried to be good he always does screw up. 

“Doctor Strange, please, breathe. Are you hearing me, Doctor?”

Stephen nodded finally tuning back with the AI and drew breath as was instructed. When he was calm enough to stand straight he said “Thank you... Uhm... Sir?”

“Your welcome Doctor Strange but you do not need to call me 'Sir'. You can call me JARVIS, since my name is quite a bit mouthful.”

A little smile rests upon Stephen's face hearing the distaste in the AI's voice for his full name. He replied “Okay, thank you JARVIS” 

“If you would Doctor then I would like to show you around” Getting Stephen's nod he continues “Please follow the lights on the path and I will direct you to the room that is set for you.”

Stephen was amazed by the advancement this house possesses, a little dazed he picked up his bag and clutching it to his chest followed the light, watching everything in awe. Simple things like patterns or wallpapers were able to amaze him which made him realise how much he was held back from his partner to forget how it felt to have such luxuries. He was moving further inside the mansion with JARVIS rattling the information about anything on which his eyes stared a bit longer. While going in he crosses the kitchen and stops when he realised where he is. His eyes fixated on the glasses kept there which made him remember how thirsty he was. He hadn’t had anything since morning and with all the screaming his throat was dry and scratchy. He didn’t know until now how much he wanted water but he didn’t know if he could take it here or not. 

“Doctor? Anything you might want?”

Stephen looks up at the ceiling to address JARVIS but then up to the glasses, he licks his lips and then tries “Can I uhh... I mean, is it... Is it okay if I... Drink some water.” 

“of course Doctor Strange you can drink as much water as you want, even if you would like you can have dinner too. No one is going to deny you for such things in this house.”

“Thank you” Stephen breathed and left his bag on the floor he practically ran to fill up the glass for himself. When he had it filled up to the brim he went to pick it up but stopped dead when he heard the shout. 

“WHO ARE YOU... AND WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE.”

As pre-planned Pepper enters the house with the takeout. They were going to have a dinner together where she had planned to chew Tony's brain out for his misbehaviour in the senate hearing that too when it was been held LIVE. She was checking the points in her head of whatever she was going to say to him and moved toward the kitchen to put the food before calling for Tony but she noticed someone was already there and doing something which she could not see what and she shouted calling him out ready to put up a fight with this stranger who was able to bypass JARVIS. 

Stephen whirled around facing the lady and then he scrambled back seeing the hard expression on her face he moved too fast and fell on his behind, it shot pain through his already abused body, he whimpered but then soon crawled to get on his knees and putting his head down on the floor in submission hoping that it would appease this new person and she would not assort any punishment. He couldn’t take it, not tonight, not soon after he was given the taste of gentle care. He couldn’t hold himself still, he was trembling, weeping as silently as he could. All his resolve to behave good was broken within a few minutes, all of them were right he couldn’t do anything right, and Michael was right to teach him lessons. 

Pepper stood frozen at her place, whatever happened was too soon for her to understand. She couldn't believe what just happened, one moment the man was standing and the next he was on the floor submitting to her. She felt herself out of place, fixating her eyes on the weeping mess on the floor she questioned "JARVIS? What?"

"That Ms. Potts is Doctor Stephen Strange whom sir has just rescued and brought him home. He was not in a good state and I suggest you to be gentle with him, please."

"That I would but what do you mean Tony rescued him?" She asks as she moves to the table with slow steps to keep the food she is carrying.

"From his partner who has abused him and was in the middle of the process when we luckily reached them."

Pepper let out and strangled sound at that and moved to Stephen who was still keeping his head down waiting for the verdict. She squatted down in front of him and called softly "Stephen!"

Stephen stiffened hearing the voice just above his head. His breath hitched waiting for the punishment to be delivered but a little part of his mind said that maybe if he pleads prettily enough he could be spared, so that's what he did. 

"I am so sorry Ma'am, please forgive me. I didn't do anything, I just wanted water. But I haven't taken a sip yet I swear. You ask from Sir JARVIS he will tell you. I didn't drink, I can even pay if you want but please forgive me, Ma'am. I have lots of money. I can pay for water. It's just... It's that I thought it's free and I am- I am allowed to drink." 

Pepper sat there, horrified hearing him plead for wanting to have simple water. Her lips tightened in a thin line, she couldn’t think of what this man would have faced to be afraid to drink water, and also why he thinks that he has to pay for it. She didn’t know what she should conclude by this and how to proceed but one thing she knew was to help this man settle, and that she could do for now. She needs a talk with Tony before she takes any steps, for now, she first has to help him calm down. She dropped her hand in his hair and ruffled it calling him “Stephen, I am not going to punish you, Alright. I didn’t know Tony invited you, I thought you to be a bugler and that’s my fault, not yours, honey. You are in no trouble.”

Stephen stilled at the touch relaxing soon when the hand started moving, he had forgotten that he loved it when someone played with his hair, how soothing this small gesture used to be and he was robbed of it, today when he was being offered he wasn’t going to deny, he pushed his head up a little asking for more and he preened when he was given what he asked. He took his time repeating the words in his head again and again waiting for another shoe to drop but it didn’t and he finally worked up his courage pushing up at the hand on his head giving a clear indication of wanting to sit up.

Pepper accepted the request and helped him sit up on his knees, he squirmed a little getting into a comfortable position. When he did she cupped his face and made him meet her eyes “Stephen will you answer something if I ask” She questioned, wiping his face with the back of her hand. When Stephen nodded she asked, “Can you tell me please, why do you think you have to pay to drink water?” She has so many questions she wants to ask but she knows that if she went on, she would no doubt send Stephen into deep space, and she does not want that to happen. She will have her answers but for now, she has to stay in present.

Stephen's eyes widened at that and he hurried to assure her “I didn't break the rule, Ma'am, I didn’t, I had even taken permission from Sir JARVIS, I didn’t break the rule.”

Pepper sensed the distress he was in and she rubbed her thumb up and down over his cheek trying to calm him down “That’s so sweet of you dear, you have kept the rule and even took the permission but will you revise the rule for me once”.

“Yes Ma'am, I can do that.” Stephen nodded quite relieved since this was one thing he could do without making anything go wrong, he had those rules engraved in his head and he was sure that even if he didn’t have a photographic memory he would still be able to remember it. On Pepper’s encouragement, he stated “I am to pay my dominant for every morsel I intake and ask for permission to have water if/when he/she is present in the vicinity.” Pepper's palms went stiff on his cheeks, her thumb stopped the rubbing and her face hardened just as he stopped talking. Stephen felt the change in her demeanour and he cries “Please Ma'am I asked for the permission, I didn’t break a rule, Please.”

Pepper pulled Stephen to her chest cuddling him in her warm embrace, hands went up to rub his back and head respectively. She whispered in his ears, softly “Hush you sweetie, I am not angry at you. I am not. You are fine. Everything is going to be fine. You are so good. You didn’t do anything wrong. Do not worry anymore.”

Stephen soaked in every drop of care he was given, he all but melted in her embrace, sobbing, it felt good to be held after having such an awful day. He clings to her not wanting her to stop what she was doing. He felt like his prayer was heard and God had sent these two to save him and remind him of how it feels to be cared for. He so wished that he could stay with both of them and take all the love they could give but he did not want to keep his hopes up because Tony had said that it was only for tonight he had his freedom, and he would savour this opportunity to grab as much as he could, it would become a little easier to lead his life after that.

They stayed like that until he calmed down, Pepper pulled from the hug and cupped his face again “Why don’t you have that water now, hmm.”

“If you permit, Ma'am,” Stephen replied, ducking his head but from the corner of his eyes he was eying the glass of water longingly. 

Pepper sighed and stood up, Stephen stayed where he was kneeling. She went and took the glass and then came back to him, she kneeled in front of him and offered the glass to him, and he snatched it desperately and started drinking in large gulps before it was taken away. Pepper noticed, she petted his head whispering “Easy sweetie, go easy, no one is going to take it away”. Stephen looked up at her from above the rim of the glass and nodded slowing down. When he was finished he looked at the tabletop again, Pepper looked in that direction and asked “Do you want more?”

“If you wish to, Ma'am.”

“Stephen, honey, for the time you are here in this house, no one is going to stop you from having food and water. You can have whatever you want, whenever you want, you can even order in anything you desire. You do not need permission from anyone. I am allowing you to do as you please, no one would say otherwise, clear.” Stephen nodded, happiness filled his face for given permission to eat and drink, Pepper felt angered at that, and she sounded cold when she addressed the next “JARVIS, make sure that no one interrupts Stephen for his meal or water and if anyone does report to me”.

“With pleasure Ms. Potts.”

“Come now,” She said, helping him stand up and move to the table, where she motioned him to go on, and when he poured water for himself she went to open the boxes that carry their food “Would you like to have dinner” Pepper looked at Stephen and the hesitation he showed she knew what he would say the next and she raised her eyebrow before he speaks.

Stephen backtracks from asking permission and says “Yes Ma'am, I would like some dinner.”

“Now that's like my good boy”.

Stephen flushed at that and ducked his head down hiding by continuing to drink water. That was the moment when Tony came back, looking at Pepper who was preparing plates and Stephen standing all flushed. It took him time to get back his composure but he forced himself to relax when JARVIS announced that Pepper was there. He knew that she would handle the situation but still he didn't want to leave Stephen alone so he hurried. He leaned on the wall beside him and announced his presence “As far as I remember I am still the owner of this house and you guys are having dinner without me, this does not sound good.” His eyes were twinkling with mischief when they startled at his voice which soon turned concerned when he noticed what effect his words had on Stephen. Stephen has turned to statute whose face left all the colours in them.

Next up: They had a talk and nothing big but just Tony beating Michael.

Chapter Text

Stephen's mind blanked going directly to the time when he had done the same thing when being with Michael, he was so hungry that day, food was in front of him and he dived in without stopping to think if his dominant had had food or not, it never crossed his mind that he was supposed to wait for him before taking any morsel for himself. That was the day when he finally realized what his position was within this relationship. That was the day when the new rule was formulated after he went through his punishment for having the audacity to eat before his dominant, after that day he had to pay for every morsel that slid through his throat. And that's what he had done today, despite being given the freedom for the night he should have known better than to not go behind the dominant's back when he was the one to save him and also was the owner of the house he was being kept in. Those words of assurance that Pepper had given to him washed through his mind and he wanted to believe them too, but Tony was the owner and he had offended him. He whimpered at the thought of it, his body shaking in fear of being punished again, he was scared, and tears slipped out of his eyes, he tried to curl in himself to make himself smaller fighting the urge to kneel and beg for mercy, Michael had taken pleasure in it but Tony had denied him to do that and he feels conflicted, at one side he wanted to kneel but was also afraid that it might make Tony angrier and he didn't want that not when he is already in trouble. 

Pepper watched in shock at the sudden change in Stephen, she turned to Tony and questioned through her teeth "What the hell happened? What did you do?"

Tony surrendered instantly putting his hands up, he winced at her stern face and replied "My bad, I thought it would be okay to joke around a bit but I can see my words are being taken in the wrong way, I didn't mean to... " he trails off approaching them. 

They were both startled when Stephen let out a whimper, their eyes were trained on Stephen and they went wide when tears started rolling down. Pepper tugged at Tony's arm, turning him around to face her, she ordered "Fix it, Now!!"

"Yeah yeah.." 

Tony drew near Stephen slowly, he whispered "Stephen?"

Stephen flinched at being called out but tried to hold himself still when recognised the voice as Tony's. This was it, he would be punished now, he waited in anticipation. 

Tony's heart pained seeing the effect his voice had on Stephen, he didn't want to scare him. This was the man who wouldn't take any shit from him, would argue back on his every word and now seeing him cower on his voice hurts him. He shakes his thoughts focusing on the present, not the past that he had left behind. He moved a bit closer to Stephen and whispered again as softly as he could "Hey buddy,  it's ok. You are fine, nothing is wrong, no one is going to punish you,  you are safe here. Stephen, please, listen to me, honey, you are safe, you are not in trouble."

Stephen heard the softened whispers in his hazy mind, it brought his heart to calm a little but still, he had to confirm, he choked out the words "But I... Before You... Not good."

Tony tusks "I was joking Stephen, I didn't mean it dear. It's in my personality to joke around and make a fool of myself. There is no such rule in this house that you can't eat before and also if you follow that then there are possible chances of dying of starvation, that's why it isn't necessary to wait for me. I was just teasing buddy."

"Yeah he is right, this man doesn't eat unless you strap him down, so we never wait for him."

"That's not what happens" Tony squeaked. 

"That is how it always happens, you will get to know soon. Don't worry everything is fine Stephen." Pepper says cupping his cheeks and wiping his tears, when after seeing no repulsion from Stephen Tony too moves forward putting his hand on the back and rubbing soothing circles, Stephen slumps in their hold, relaxed. 

"Come now let's eat" Tony says after they stand there for a while, he pats his shoulder before moving away. 

Stephen whines at the loss of comfort he is getting. It seems like a miracle for him to be cared for and comforted not only by one but two people and he didn't want to lose it even for a second. 

Tony was amused by that, he chuckled looking back at Stephen who ducked his head hiding the flush that crept across his face remembering what he had just done. "come, sweetheart, let's put something in your tummy then I can be persuaded in cuddling if you want." He winks for extra measure and it has the effect that he thought it would. Stephen's ears turned cherry red, and he tried for a response but failed, Pepper chuckled holding his hand to make him sit down while Stephen pouted, still keeping his head down.

Stephen sat first, his backside hurt when it met with the hard seat reminding him of his awful day which sombre him quickly and he went stiff within a second, keeping all his guards in place. Both of them noticed the change but didn't call him out on that and took seats on either side of him. 

Pepper proceeded to unpack the food preparing the plates for three that consisted of steaks, bagels and chicken soup "Well I had brought food only for two of us, So we have to order some more." she said pushing the plates to the boys. 

"Yeah sure, J,  you heard the girl. Make an order for three from... Wait... Stephen? anything you wish or just the same thing."

Stephen was startled at being asked, he was never asked about what he wanted he was just given and then asked to pay even though what he ate wasn't palatable to him. His eyes stung for this simple gesture and this time he did not doubt the opportunity he was given and took it, "Chinese... I would love some Chinese. Chicken and pepper noodles and dumplings?" he blurted out quickly before he was denied. 

"Alright, Jarvis pick up the restaurant that makes the best noodles and dumplings and order them also ask them to make it as quick as they can."

"Sure Sir... your order has been placed, and it will be here in about 37 minutes."

Tony claps, rubbing his hands together "Till then let's eat this one before it gets cold" he dives in, as he takes the first bite he remembers that it's been too long since he had some food in his stomach. It was almost before their time heist that too just a Sandwich and then he had a battle and died and then came back again. He didn't know he was hungry until he ate. He clears his throat gaining the attention of Pepper and Stephen who haven't yet started still in a dream that his request has been accepted without any remarks, Tony pointedly ignores the two and says out loud "Jarvis, make it for four people, I am quite hungry."

Pepper looked at Tony with suspicion, until now she had never heard Tony accepting that he was hungry, she found it fishy especially after Tony was trying not to look at her, after waiting for a while giving Tony time to voice it out himself but he didn't, so she asked "Are you Okay?"

"Yupp. Absolutely."

"I don't think so, you never accept that you are hungry or you are wrong out loud like this so spill it before I get my hands in it and you know how that would end."

Tony did shiver at that which amused Stephen, he had been watching the exchange bouncing his head on either side helping himself with the food that was served. He liked the normalcy that was present in the atmosphere. Even when he wasn't involved he didn't feel left out as he always used to feel when Michael had a company. He liked it here, this place was huge and nice, and also his presence was acknowledged here, his wishes were accepted and mostly he did not need any kind of permission to fulfil his basic needs such as food. He is loving here, it would be a dream come true if he could stay.

"So is there anything you want to share Mr. Stark?"

"Uh-Oh..." The words slipped out of his mouth before Stephen could control them, he blushed when both of them went silent and looked at him. He tried to hide his face behind his bagel because of embarrassment. 

"Aww... He is so cute" Tony purred, leaning in to give a little peck on Stephen's cheek. 

Stephen stills, Tony and Pepper hold their breath hoping that it isn't a step too far and too early but then they notice the blush that covers every part of Stephen's skin which was exposed, they sigh in relief, and Pepper takes the opportunity and slightly pinched Stephen's other cheek "He is adorable. But do not change the subject, Tony!!"

Stephen exhaled when their attention shifted away from him, his cheeks were still radiating heat and he was sure that they would be full of pink, his heart was still beating faster and the place where Tony's lips landed was still tickling, he wanted to rub there but holds himself not wanting to draw any attention on himself again, on the other side he could still feel her touch, it's been a long time since he got such compliments, well if he thinks he wasn't ever called cute or adorable. Michael and his friends used to call him sexy and other things but not that. These little compliments and love he is being given are making his stomach tingle in a very pretty way. He liked it, he loved it, and he hoped that it was not only for tonight there would be other days too. But a little part of his brain reminded him that this was not his home, he didn't know these people apart from the news and media, and neither did they know him before today then why would they keep him? Negativity started to creep up in his thoughts and he forcefully pushed it away, he wouldn't dwell on it today, he would live in the present, and he would take everything whatever he was being given before they discarded him, even if all this is supposed to be for a short time he would savour it all. 

Stephen came out of his trance to see Tony wince at Pepper's glare. 

"Oh c'mon Pep, I haven't had a decent meal since before launching the Expo, and the little bit of energy I had left was released dealing with that asshole of the Senator". 

"Yes, that, that is the reason I came here in the first place. Anthony Edward Stark what the hell were you thinking!!!" Pepper hissed glaring at Tony. 

"Shit!!!  Did I just dig my grave?" Tony mumbles looking at Pepper wide-eyed, beside him Stephen hums, Tony turns to him "You are not helping." Stephen shrugged and turned to his food, giggling. 

"Tony. Don't involve Stephen in this."

Tony zipped his lips "I will not... But he deserved whatever I gave him though." 

"Yes, but not on live TV."

"He did right" Stephen spoke with such vehement that alarmed the other two. Before they could even try to say something Stephen continued "These political scumbags are always behind money and more money. Everyone who says that they are here to help us are liar, their powers should be taken away, and they all should be put in jail for exploiting it. On TV they show as if no one is better than them but in reality, they are all leeches, their truth should come out, and the public deserves to know."

Tony exchanged looks with Pepper both were confused by Stephen's ire which went unnoticed by Stephen. His eyes were focused far away. He continued " You know, when I... When I felt the dynamic of our relationship change I asked for a break but his friends made me believe that I was overthinking, it was nothing like that. They made it so that I started to feel I was in the wrong but no, I wasn't. I was always right in assuming his intentions. They all tried to be friendly with me and he, he loved me so much that I felt so lucky, so very blessed but then they showed who they were. Until I could get a hold of myself it was too late, they all had been planning it for a long time because they were ready. They had it all planned and stupid me fell right into their trap. I should have known that something was amiss but I thought there was nothing wrong, I should have realized that the people who did not think before using my money would be buying me presents all of a sudden were planning something for me, but I thought of it as their love. I thought it was just him showing his love through his presents, by taking me places to see, by being there whenever I came home. I just fell so hard for him, again in those days, and then suddenly his controlling little aspects of my life didn't feel wrong anymore. He said he wanted to take care of me, he said I am a failure when it comes to myself and that was true too so when he asked me to let him help me I agreed. I felt so unbelievably lucky of myself to have gotten the chance to be with a man who wanted to keep me like his king but then came my birthday and everything changed."

Tony and Pepper who had been entranced hearing Stephen spill his story went on alert when they saw his face crumbling into grief filled with fear. Tony couldn't help himself and pulled Stephen's trembling hands into his warm ones, rubbing them and trying to soothe the man who was hurting for god knows how long. 

Pepper looked at how this little gesture of Tony had calmed Stephen she too moved a little closer to him and rubbed her palms over his back from up his scalp to down forming a rhythm that Stephen unconsciously followed in breathing which helped him to calm in a great deal. 

"What did they do sweetheart? You can tell us."

"I had a little sister, She was a delight to be with, the sunshine of our little home. She was the most favoured little person in our house."

Tony and Pepper looked at each other when they noticed the direction of the story had changed but made no move to remind him, they just let him pour his heart out however he wanted. 

"We, I and her were at home when Mumma and Papa has gone out with Victor, when She asked if we could do ice skating I agreed and we went to the nearby frozen lake, I did not check the thickness of the ice and it broke in the middle, she fell inside, I couldn't save her. She died. Mumma was so angry with me she blamed me for that day but Papa did not, he said it was not my fault but I couldn't believe in him when mumma made it so obvious. She kept neglecting me, still, I was happy that she loved Victor, that she was not punishing Victor for my mistakes."

"No, it was not your fault Stephen, you did not kill her, I am damn sure that you would have tried everything that you knew to save her," Tony reassures him, softly wiping the tears that were continuously falling from Stephen's eyes.

Pepper moves her hand to his scalp scratching a little making him relax instantly, she says "You did not do anything wrong Stephen, It was an unfortunate accident. Do not blame yourself for it. Your mother was in distress when she said those words, She too would have understood the situation and what possible explanation I can think of is that she had a hard time accepting her daughter's death and needed something to explain to herself that it had happened and is real and for that, it was much easier to have someone to blame than passing it off as an accident. I could say that deep down she knew that you are not to be blamed, honey."

Stephen nodded, "Yes, you are right, after a few months when she was shouting at me she didn't notice where she was putting her leg and she fell, her spine broke, and she got paralyzed waist down and thus was rendered to bedrest. One of the nights When I was with her she apologized and said that It was her karma for blaming and punishing me wrongly. Her injury was a major setback for us, still, Papa and Mumma encouraged me to go out and pursue my medicals. Mumma said that she wanted to see me become a doctor and operate on her since no one else could do it, she believed that I could do it, and I could help her stand on her legs again. I became a doctor as she wished. I was arranging for her to stay nearby from the hospital where I work that was when I met Michael. we hit off pretty quickly, I didn't notice when had I started involving him in my decision, in my personal matters. It didn't take long and we started having sleepovers and he got involved in my life and family more and more. He was there at home when Papa talked about this fund that he had started for me, he said in the next three years it would mature and I would have enough money to build a hospital of my own. I did not notice the gleam Michael had in his eyes hearing about money. I didn't even notice how his eyes turned hard and cold when I denied the money. I said to Papa that I was happy with whatever I was earning and that would be more than enough for me, that I was ok to work under someone else. My main focus was to help Mumma stand and about the money, I told him to keep it for Victor's future because I knew soon we were going to be tight on our budget once the treatment started especially because I was planning to use Stark Industries brand of the prosthesis to help her if nothing else worked. I was too focused on Mumma I didn't notice how Michael's behaviour was slightly changing. He did not want me to refuse the money and to make sure that all the money came to me he... He decided to remove Victor from the equation." 

Stephen felt Tony going rigid by his side and heard Pepper gasp, he was too involved in his telling he forgot to reassure them that Victor was alive but that was only a little consolation since Michael succeeded in killing his parents. His breathing was going erratic as he recollected that night, his voice came out with little sobs as he recounted to his companions about how Michael had kept him busy at his home while he himself creeped out to visit Stephen's apartment that was on the 5th floor in the building, the lowest level Stephen can find considering his mother's condition and he was promised a flat on the ground floor within a month and a half. This was the phase when Stephen has decided that they need some break and to convince him to not do that Michael left him with his two friends who tried their best in manipulating Stephen and make him believe that Micheal is the only one for him.

Michael paid the security and entered the building and with the help of two of his other friends, he put their apartment on fire. Since all were sleeping it took them time to realise what was happening, until they woke up the fire got out of control. There was no other way to leave the flat except the window and the first thing that his Papa did was push Victor out of the window and he then went back to get Mumma but it was too late, also he lost the chance to protect himself too. His parents were burnt alive, Victor when landed on the ground one of his leg broke along with a few more fractures and contusions. Victor's surgery took longer than expected but wasn't fully successful. His right leg will need at least two more surgeries to make him able enough to hold his weight but he can never be able to walk without any help. Victor's physical wound was healing at a gradual rate but can't be said the same about his mental health, he was traumatized beyond repair, after all he was still a fifteen-year-old kid and was put under therapy. 

Things were getting normal when his birthday came up, it was the day when he could break the fund and take the money. Michael knew of it and planned as such, he and his friend showered Stephen with presents and love helping him cope with Mumma and Papa being gone, in all this he forgot that he was going to break up with Michael and he paid for this slip up of his. Michael has used his influence and made the hospital that was treating Victor throw him out and get him kidnapped by his lackeys. Victor was supposed to have one of his surgery in within two days and if delayed then the infection would speed up and then there might come the circumstances that Victor have to lose his leg, Michael knew of that and he unashamedly used it to force Stephen to sign all his money, his freedom and everything to Michael if he wants his brother to live. 

Stephen weeps uncontrollably, hiding his face in his palms, remembering how helpless he had felt that day, how big of a failure he was that once he had let his sister die and now his little brother's life is also at stake because of him, his parents are dead because of his greedy partner, the one he had chosen to spend his life with. 

"I had no other option than to do as he said, if I didn't obey then he would not let Victor have his treatment, I only had Victor for me, I didn't want to lose him too and I agreed. Victor was recovering but he still had a sword hanging over his head, one little move out of the way and Victor would have to pay the price. So I had to abide by every rule he made and take every punishment he created. I was bidding on my time, having a little hope in me that when Victor would heal enough to move I would take him and run far away from here where they couldn't reach us but all this hope went down when he called in all of the people who have helped him in trapping me. They were just not some random goons,  among them were at least six politicians involved, two of them worked under the President. That was when I knew how deeply I had been stuck in this, there was no hope of me ever coming out of this when such high profiles were involved, I am just a neurosurgeon who has nothing on his name except his job and a brother whose life depends on how I behave, there was no other way than me submitting to him."

Tony involuntarily flinched at those words that reminded him of the future he had left behind with a promise to not only prevent the destruction of the timeline but also to protect Stephen, he vowed to himself that he would fulfil the promises that he had made and he would protect Stephen and his brother at all cost, he wouldn't shy away if he has to bring his Merchant of Death persona out in the open. 

Stephen sobbed letting out all the grief he had been keeping in his heart. It's been months since Michael held control over his life but as every day passed he felt like he had been trapped in this hell for a lifetime ago. He couldn't have anyone to whom he could tell how he was suffering from within, it used to feel like a burden he had been carrying locked in his heart that suffocated him whenever anyone complimented his relationship with Michael being a couple goal, he used to feel humiliated and dirty knowing the secrets of what happens behind the closed doors, he wanted to yell and tell everyone that it is not the truth, that he is trapped with a monster who is been forcing him to do the things he doesn't desire anymore, but he held it in, knowing the consequences of his retorts. Tonight when he finally told everything to someone who believed him, he felt that finally, life was welcoming him, and he could breathe easier. 

Pepper moved her chair closer to him and embraced him, so tight, directing his head to the crook of her neck,  she whispers "It's ok, everything is going to be ok I promise you, you have seen too much pain not anymore, only happiness from now on. I will see who would dare to hurt you under my watch."

"Whoops!! There, Stephen, you have the most powerful woman ever to walk on Earth on your side, I already feel sorry for those who found the courage to even stand against her. You do not have to worry anymore sweetheart, you are safe now." Tony interjected trying to lighten the mood a little and he succeeded when he noticed how Stephen relaxed into Pepper's grip. Tony squeezes the hand he is holding giving his nonverbal support to this man for whom he is willing to kill people just to soothe his heart. 

When Stephen calmed down a bit he straightened up still being in Pepper's hold and holding Tony's hand he spoke "That's not the end of it, they are...  They... I am not the only victim."

A growl left Tony's throat that startled both of them, he left Stephen's hand and stood up in rage throwing the chair behind in a loud clutter, Stephen flinched at the noise instantly burying himself into Pepper who held him tight, her face pale in horror learning about the kind of monster Michael is. 

"THAT BASTARD!!!  I'm gonna fucking kill him. I should have done that already. JARVIS where is that scumbag, ready the suit for the flight, Oh I am gonna burn him, burn the fucking greed out of him. He will be fucking sorry for ever touching you. I will make that motherfucker to plead mercy. He will regret for ever touching you or anyone else he did until now-"

"ALRIGHT ENOUGH!!!"

Pepper cut into his mid-rant, Tony whirled around staring at her with wide eyes ready to rebuke when she pointed toward Stephen down in her embrace who was so very close to a panic attack because of Tony's anger-filled loud noise. Tony's heart skipped a beat seeing the fear that was painted on every inch of Stephen's body, he took a few deep breaths and then came forward near Stephen crouching down he whispered "Hey!" 

Tony cursed when Stephen pulled back in fear "Hey no no, not you sweetheart, I'm not angry at you, you are in no trouble, you are such a good boy, so good to us. There is no need for you to fear". 

Stephen peeked from where he was hiding with Pepper, his eyes were fixated on Tony and kept flickering toward Tony's hands that he had up in the air in a non-threatening way. A few beats of silence passed by and Stephen relaxed when he established that he would not be harmed. 

Tony's eyes softened seeing Stephen melting down, he couldn't help but open his arm beckoning him. Not a second later he had Stephen in his lap with arms snaked around his neck in a tight clasp, sobbing his fear out with his head buried under his chin. Tony held him tightly one arm across Stephen's back and another one in his hair playing with them gently while he was whispering reassurance in the ear. 

"It's alright, let it out, let it all out. You do not have to fear for anything,  for anyone anymore. You are safe, you are protected, no one will hurt you any more. I promise. You are such a good boy my darling, you will never be in trouble with us. Whatever bullshit rules that fucker has applied it doesn't work here ok, so you do not need to fear, you are allowed to speak your thoughts out, and you are allowed to deny if there is anything that you don't like, and most importantly you are allowed to do whatever the fuck makes you happy no matter what it is, no one is gonna stop you. Oh my dear heart, you are free now. Free to choose whatever you want to do, however, you want to do, and no one controls you anymore except you."

Stephen sobs louder with every word that is being said to him, it feels like a dream to him, how long he has been waiting for the freedom that seemed too far from his reach but now he has it. He cries more and more wetting Tony's shirt and holding on to him tightly in fear that if he leaves then this will all be gone in a poof and he will find himself woken up from the thousandth dream of his freedom tied to a bench With Michael hovering over him. 

Pepper sat numbly at her place eyes on the pair sitting on the floor, tears fell out of her eyes so easily seeing the man cry out, her heart squeezed when the cries got louder as Stephen's hand scrambled to get hold of more of Tony in desperation, she didn't know what Stephen must be feeling but she for sure can see his fear, she still is in shock to know that humans can be this cruel to such an innocent person like Stephen and over that he was not the only one, how many more are out there helpless to defend themselves and were forced to trade for the life of a person they care to the money they has saved with the hard work throughout their life and thinking of this made her anger rise as it has never before. She knows that Tony will go after Michael so she does not have to think for him but his friends, oh she would love to make them beg, all of them even if they are politicians or not. 

JARVIS dinged throwing up a message of food arrival for Pepper to see as he didn't feel right announcing it out loud, having data to conclude that the Doctor would not appreciate an unknown loud voice from the ceiling when he isn't yet accustomed to his presence. 

Pepper thanked JARVIS for his thoughtfulness and then stood up, first she went to the pair and told on softly "Hey! The food is here, I am going to bring it up. Why don't you two get settled on the table, hmm?"  

Stephen stilled hearing her voice but then nodded removing himself from Tony a bit. Pepper smiled trying her best to encourage him, dropping a kiss on Stephen's forehead she left for the door. He then looked at Tony and his eyes widened seeing how he had ruined his shirt. 

Tony looks down at where Stephen is staring and he just knows what is going through Stephen's head he soon intervenes "Uh-uh... No apologies. It's all good. Think nothing of it. This is not the first time my shirt has been ruined and trust me when I say, that tears are the least of the problems with my shirt you wouldn't wanna know what else has been on some of them which all are now burnt to their death. This we can salvage so no biggie." 

Stephen looked amused at that information and he became curious to know what might it have been that forced the billionaire to burn them. 

"Nope... Don't give me that look I am never telling you that. Now c'mon up we go." Tony manoeuvres Stephen to stand up taking him to his chair "Alright it's been too rough of a day and we need some break. So, we are gonna have lots of food and then going to have a long shuteye, everything else will be taken care of in the morning. And the first thing in the morning will be rescuing your baby brother from hospital-"

"You would do that?" Stephen stopped in the middle,  looking at Tony with a hope-filled gaze. His eyes again filled with tears, up until now he had believed that he would not be able to save his brother but now, with Tony, Iron Man and Pepper Potts at his side, he can finally hope. 

"Of course Stephen, we did say that we would help you right and your brother comes with you. You don't worry, I have the best of the World's lawyers in my corner, a shit ton of money to throw around if there is even a chance of them lacking and also I can and will bring up the best doctors to help Victor heal." 

Stephen looked at Tony, he believed Tony, he didn't know why but he just knew that all these words and promises that were being made today with him were not meaningless like before, but still, a little part of him was scared to hope. He was promised to be free but at what cost, he doesn't know. And he would sure like to know all the terms and conditions that come with this, so he asked, meeting his eyes with Tony's "Why? Why would you do that? I do not have anything to pay you back, you certainly have everything that I can think of giving you, then what is it that I have to do in exchange for your help?"

"Stephen, sweetie" Tony cups Stephen's face in his hands tenderly, wiping the tears that still fall, he meets his vulnerable gaze and continues "No, you do not have to repay me, there is no exchange in this. This is not a deal Stephen, it's just me who wants to see you happy and protected, it's my choice to help you, and I do not want anything in return for that, if you really want something to give then we will sort it out later on ok, for now let's just concentrate on how to get everything of yours back Alright."

"But why? Why do you want to help me? I do not understand, please. You don't even know me."

I do. It was on the tip of the tongue, but Tony held on. How can he tell Stephen that he knows him, knows him from the time that would never come, he has seen the kind of person he had become, he had known of that Dr. Strange who held the burden of the whole universe on his shoulder and stood firmly, who had made the hardest of the choice to protect their planet, he knows him in the way that Stephen hadn't known himself yet. 

Coming out of his musings he looked at the person to whom this universe owes a debt for him to still stay standing trying to keep it safe even when he was falling apart, he still remembers the meltdown that the doctor had, how small and defeated he had looked, and today, he looked the same, his eyes were pleading to him even then and now too, to help him but didn't know how to ask. And who is Tony to deny the cry for help, so he does the same thing that he did back then, he steps back to sit on the chair behind him, pulls Stephen along and makes him settled in his lap. One hand of Tony's went behind Stephen's neck pulling him down while he too leaned forward joining their forehead together, he took a deep breath that Stephen involuntarily copied, and then he questioned, gently, "Will you answer a few things for me?"

Stephen closed his eyes, pushing himself a little further into Tony wanting the touch that felt safe and gentle, he nodded. 

Tony pulls Stephen a little closer with his other hand "You are a doctor, right?"

Stephen nods. 

"The best in your field!"

Stephen nods, a little bit of shyness creeping up hearing the awe in Tony's voice. 

"Then tell me, darling, do you operate on only those people who you knew beforehand or anyone?"

Stephen stills, not knowing how to respond. 

Tony pulled himself a little back still holding Stephen in his embrace and facing him he spoke "You save lives, Stephen, of any human that comes to you for help and you know that you are capable of doing it. In the time you have served, did you have any one patient who asked you why you are helping them when you don't know who they are? No, right?" 

Stephen nods. Tears poured out with every word that was being said. 

"You do it because that's your duty and you want it. That's the same with me, I know that I am capable of helping you in this situation, and I want to, and also as Iron Man it becomes my duty to help without any deal. Iron Man was born out of necessity and I continued to be so for a selfish reason to make up for the deaths my weapons caused but not anymore, there is no other reason behind Iron Man to stay other than for help. I will help anyone whoever asks, to whoever I can. Because every being out there deserves to feel safe, happy, and loved. And so do you. There are no intentions other than just helping you out, I do not expect anything in return. Once you are safe and have your life in your hands you can choose to do whatever you want. If you want to leave this place then you can, if you want to settle somewhere outside the States then you can I will not come your way. I will just help you to be there from where you can be able to choose for yourself without expecting any kind of consequences for that choice, that's all."

Stephen didn't say anything, he just lowered his head to rest on Tony's chest beside the reactor and cried. 

'You have my gratitude for saving my champion, dear Anthony. But this is not the end, you do not know whose attention you have got, be careful Anthony, otherwise, the price would be too much to pay, and we are not ready for that loss, not when it affects the protection of three of our champions.' ~Time whispers in Tony's mind making him go rigid and hold Stephen a little more tight. 

Next Up:  Tony beats Micheal and Tony and Pepper talk. 

(PS: I know I was going to give Tony and Michael face off in this one but the chapter was becoming too long so I have to leave it for the next one... So you have to wait a little more for that.)