When All Else Fails

All You Need Is Love

Stephen portaled home, a paper bag full of food in his arms. He set it on the counter, looking around. "Tony! I'm home!" He waited, but there was no response. He frowned. Just then, he heard Friday's voice.

"Mr. Stark is in his workshop," Friday said solemnly. Stephen became worried. He didn't like Friday's tone. He hurried downstairs to Tony's workshop, his heart pounding.

He found Tony on the floor, hugging his knees to his chest. His breathing was rapid and pure panic was written on his face. He didn't look up as Stephen came closer, leaning down next to him.

"Tony? Tony, what happened?" Tony looked up, but didn't really seem to see him. "Stephen?" He said softly.

"Yeah, it's me. What's going on?" He said soothingly.

Tony shook his head, seeming to get progressively worse. He began to rock back and forth, his breathing ragged.

Stephen placed a hand on Tony's shoulder. "Tony, listen to me. It's gonna be ok. Just breathe, alright? Try to relax."

Tony didn't seem to hear him. A sob racked his body. He squeezed his eyes shut, tears slipping from them. Frantic, Stephen called out, "Friday! Call Peter Parker!"

The line began to ring, then a small voice said, "Hello?"

Tony shuddered, looking up. Breathlessly, he spoke. "Hey, kid..."

"Mr. Stark? What's wrong?" He paused, seeming to understand. "Oh. Mr. Stark, it's ok. I'm here, alright? Hey, um, how about I tell you what happened to me today? You wouldn't believe the guy I had to stop today. He was crazy! I thought he was gonna get away for sure and then–"

Tony's breathing slowly returned to normal as Peter spoke. He sat up, wiping he tears from his eyes hastily. He interrupted Peter with a small smile. "Thanks, kid."

You could practically hear Peter's smile through the line. "Anytime, Mr. Stark."