p • r • e • s • s • u • r • e

Jesus, Tony

"'Guess it's too late to change it now," the engineer remarks.

"Yeah."

He lays back down and breathes out through pursed lips.

"Well shit."

"What? You didn't actually... want the pain, did you?"

The billionaire shuts his eyes.

Why does he have to be so incredibly blunt?

"Subtlety's really not your strength, huh?"

"Never said it was."

"Touché."

"You never answered my question."

"No, no I didn't."

"How come?"

Tony twiddles his fingers, then sits up rather suddenly, instantly regretting it.

"Jesus.." he mutters, clutching his head.

Bruce looks at him expectantly.

"I uh...truth be told, I don't really know."

"Yeh, well, let me know when you do."

Tony smirks.

"Y'know, I answered your question. It's your turn. What part are you on?"

"What?"

"In your book, what part are you on?"

"Well, technically since it's from your library..."

Tony bats a hand at him.

"Meh. Semantics. Wait, lemme see which copy it is?"

"You own multiple copies?"

The engineer shoots him a look.

"Of course you do. Here."

Bruce tosses the book at him, and Tony fingers the worn binding, and flips to the first page.

Dear Anthony,

I hope this finds you well, and that you enjoy whatever party you're undoubtedly going to throw tonight. (Don't worry, I won't tell. In fact, you'll find the fridge in the garage fully stocked.) Your father and I will miss you on such an important day of your life, and we'll celebrate as soon as your back. I'll telephone you as soon as Howard is finished, and we'll wish you a happy birthday. I can't wait to see you!

Love,

Mamma

"You good, Tony?"

The man squeezes his eyes shut for a moment, and flips briefly through the book, seeing his sixteen year-old self's notes in the margins.

What an asshole....

Mathematically improbable absolute horse shit...

He smirks, and tosses the book gently back to Bruce.

"Yeah, I'm good."

"How old were you?"

Tony smiles at the ceiling.

"I was sixteen years old. My god..."

He chuckles.

"I'm sorry they weren't there."

Tony breaks out of his trance.

"Hmm?"

"For your birthday, I'm sorry they weren't there."