Archive of Our Own

It had taken time for Tony to come to terms with Barnes. The death of his mother and father at the man’s hands had left him wounded and angry. But, given some time to calm down, he’d realised the man in front of him wasn’t responsible. HYDRA was. Bucky Barnes was as much of a victim as the people he’d murdered.

After that, he’d grown to accept the man in his tower. Then, he’d actually started to like and joke with him. Barnes had a wicked (and dirty) sense of humour, a foul mouth and didn’t pull his punches. He was also really good for Steve. He made the soldier loosen up and act like an actual human being.

All and all, Tony enjoyed the time the man came to his lab for monthly arm check-ups.

Just… not today.

Because, on top of being an entertaining guy to talk to, he was also annoyingly perceptive.

He hadn’t been sitting in the chair opposite him for more than five minutes before he asked, “Who kicked you in the gut?”

“I was not kicked in the gut.”

“Says the guy who looks like shit and is displaying wounded puppy dog eyes.”

Tony cursed under his breath and pulled back his tools. He honestly wanted to throw them down and walk away. He didn’t want to talk about this, but Barnes was like a dog with a bone. He didn’t give up.  He supposed it was how he’d been able to put up with Steve long-term. An equally bullheaded asshole was necessary to keep up with Steve’s righteous stubbornness.

“It got something to do with Loki?”

Tony froze. He looked up and met Barnes’ knowing gaze. No one else had worked that out.

“Don’t look so shocked,” Barnes drawled. “You guys flirt all the time. The others might think you’re just being little shits, but I’m not blind. You’ve wanted to climb that guy like a tree since the moment he switched sides. Probably before too.”

And that, in essence, was the problem.

Because, climb that tree he had. It was only three nights ago and it had been good, so fucking good. But when he’d tried to touch Loki in the aftermath, to ask him to stay for dinner he hadn’t just been brushed off, he’d been put in his fucking place.

You are a mortal. A simple sating of my lust. I do not harbour anything remotely affectionate for you, Stark.

And that had hurt because against all sanity and reasonable judgement he… liked Loki. He wanted him. He’d fucking fallen for him and being told, unceremoniously, that all he was good for was a leg over had hit him hard.

He’d been avoiding the mage ever since which only highlighted how much he was the one to encourage conversation with Loki. To tempt him into the lab, to see past his harsh prickly demeanour to the funny, intelligent guy underneath.

The guy who didn’t want him.

Which meant their flirting had been mostly in his head – or that his small attempt at more had made Loki retreat even further than before.

“Stark?” Barnes asked.

It drew him from his thoughts and reminded him where he was – and who was asking.

“Forget about it, Barnes.”

“Yeah, fuck that. You’re clearly wallowing. A good way to end a wallow is to talk about it.”

“Who says I haven’t talked about it?”

“I mentioned the puppy eyes, right? Not to mention the way you look coiled like a spring.” He shrugged. “If you don’t want to talk to me, whatever. You’ve got other friends, don’t you? Not to mention your all seeing A.I.”

Tony frowned, but didn’t respond. Barnes sighed.

“Whatever. You going to leave my arm open like this?”

Instead of replying verbally, Tony regripped his tools and started again. He focused on Barnes' arm and let the familiarity of the check up calm him down. But even as he worked, he couldn’t help thinking over everything that had happened with Loki not to mention Barnes’ offer.

Against his better judgement, he said, “Loki doesn’t like mortals.”

“Loki proclaims he doesn’t like pizza, but he eats as much as Thor.”

Tony smiled instinctively. Because yeah, Loki pretended to hate a lot of Earth culture and food. He’d done it ever since he’d joined the Avengers with much grumbling and hostility from all sides. But he’d settled in. They’d all grown to ignore his blatant lies and eccentricities.

But this was different.

“He’s not interested in them beyond a quick fuck.”

“And you want more.”

Tony didn’t meet Barnes gaze, focusing instead on the intricacies of the man’s metal arm.

“I thought he’d want the same from you.”

“He doesn’t,” Tony said, his voice coming out harsher than he’d intended.

But the wound was still too fucking raw. It also didn’t help that for a while he’d thought he wasn’t the only one feeling something. He’d thought Loki would like the idea of something other than sex behind closed doors.

Showed how much of a wishful idiot he was.

“His loss, Stark. You’re a bit of an asshole, but you’d be a good catch.”

Tony snorted. “Thanks, Barnes.”

Barnes fell quiet and Tony was glad for the reprieve. He hadn’t spoken to anyone about Loki. He’d shut down JARVIS’s enquires and kept everyone else unaware of what had changed. He wasn’t sure if he regretted talking to Barnes or not. Everything just hurt even worse than before – but at least he knew Barnes wouldn’t breathe a word.

“Hey Stark,” Barnes said and Tony paused with a screw driver over the open panel.

He knew that tone. That was a thoughtful tone. The last times Barnes had used that, he’d convinced Steve to dress in casual clothes and go to Coney Island. It had actually been hilarious when they’d come back, Barnes grinning like a loon and Steve in ripped clothes after he’d almost been mobbed by fans who’d recognised him.

“What?” he asked suspiciously.

“If Loki is going to be an idiot. Maybe you should show off you don’t care about his bullshit.”

“And how would I do that?”

Barnes’ had that same grin from Coney Island back on his face.

“Rebound with me.”

Tony almost choked on his own spit. “What?”

Barnes rolled his eyes.

“Don’t have a panic attack. I’m not asking you to fuck me. Or me to fuck you.”

“Then what they hell are you suggesting?”

Barnes shrugged; the motion impressive in that it didn’t move any other part of his body.

“That if you snooze you lose. He doesn’t need to know you aren’t boning me for real.”

“I’m not fifteen,” Tony replied, unable to believe he was having this conversation. “I’m not ‘fake dating’ to catch someone’s attention.” He frowned. “And since when did you even consider men?”

“Since the thirties, asshole.”

Tony blinked. He also felt a sudden sharp pang of sympathy. That had to have sucked. He’d gained enough shit for liking men from his father and the media, but at least he wouldn’t have faced violence or jail.

“Well,” he said, not broaching that topic, “thanks. But, I’m good.”

Barnes shrugged again and Tony went back to the man’s arm.

He’d intended to shut that thought down for good. But even though he didn’t want to, Tony couldn’t help pondering the man’s suggestion. It wasn’t that he thought it would work. Loki probably wouldn’t give a shit about who he was supposedly sleeping with, but it certainly would deflect from how much the rejection had hurt.

If Loki doesn’t see right through us.

No. He was resolved. It was an outright stupid idea. Almost as bad as sleeping with Loki in the first place. He would just lick his wounds in private like a normal person and continue to pretend Loki’s actions didn’t mean shit to him.

The head in the sand approached worked okay. For a few days.

Barnes didn’t say anything. He also didn’t treat Loki or him any differently. It was one thing that Barnes could be counted upon. After years as the Winter Soldier, his poker face and ability to downplay emotion outstripped even Romanov. Which was strange, when you paired it with who Bucky Barnes was. His personality was nothing like the emotionless machine HYDRA had created.

But it wasn’t Barnes who roughly dragged his head from the sand. No, that was well and truly Loki.

Tony was sure he wasn’t meant to hear it. He’d been walking past a room when he’d heard Thor’s booming voice. He was asking why Loki wasn’t hanging out with him anymore. Why their ‘delightful friendship’ had stalled and if he could help. That he wanted Loki to be happy again.

And it was that one word. That happy which had sparked Loki to reply.

“A pathetic mortal does not make me happy, you buffoon. You might have an affection for these dull creatures but I am merely here to reduce my sentence and leave this world far behind.”

“But Loki-”

“Cease your pathetic drivel,” he snapped. “I would no rather spend my time with Stark than with you.”

If he hadn’t been kicked in the gut before, Tony sure felt it then. He gasped softly before hurriedly turning on his heel and leaving. He got in the elevator and didn’t even have to select a floor. JARVIS was already taking him to the lab.

He’d always known Loki had a way with words and could wield them like daggers. He felt like he’d been stabbed clean through the chest. He sat down heavily on a chair and clenched his fists. But where pain had nearly knocked him over at first, underneath was a slowly burning anger.

Because Loki was such a fucking asshole.

And maybe he meant every word, or maybe he was just bluffing to get Thor off his back. But either way, his casual words today, and when he’d left the penthouse had hurt. And a part of Tony that spitefully wanted to hit back against the people who hit him, decided fuck it.

He stood abruptly, the chair rolling back as he stalked out the lab and into the elevator.

“Where’s Barnes?” He demanded.

JARVIS hesitated before, “The communal living room, Sir.”

Tony stepped into the elevator. “Take me there.”

The doors shut and the lift started moving. Every second that Tony was in the confined space, his anger and determination burned hotter. When the doors opened, he had to forcibly rein in those emotions and plaster a smile on his face. He had to lighten his step and walk into the room as if it was any other day.

As if it was natural and he was happy.

Barnes was there, sitting on the couch while Steve and Clint argued over something. Loki wasn’t present, but he didn’t have to be. Tony made a beeline for Barnes and he saw the man notice him. He heard Steve pause the argument to offer a greeting and Tony waved absently.

He was focused. He was determined.

He didn’t climb onto the couch. He climbed onto Barnes – to Bucky’s lap and kissed him right on the mouth. He heard a spluttering noise behind him, but Bucky didn’t hesitate to cup his waist and kiss him back.

It didn’t last long (but it was enough for Tony to acknowledge the guy was a decent kisser). Steve and Clint were still sounding confused in the background, but Bucky grinned at him and his voice carried over them.

“Happy to be open about our relationship then, Tony?”

“You fucking bet I am.”

Bucky laughed and caught his neck and tugged him down. But even as he did, Tony saw from the corner of his eye that the two arguing demi-gods had just entered the room. Tony closed his eyes tightly and ignored the hell out of the mage.

He focused on kissing Bucky and digging his fingers in the man’s dark hair. The exact same way he’d kissed Loki less than a week before.

It took a while for things to calm down.

Steve had stood in front of them in dumbfounded shock. The Avengers had fired confused and accusatory questions (mostly about how long, why the hell hadn’t anyone been told, and what the general fuck) and Bucky had tugged him to rest comfortably in the man’s lap with an arm around his waist and a shit-eating grin on his face.

Tony had pointedly not looked at Loki. Especially when Thor had boomed with laughter and announced, “Ah, now it is clear. You have not been spending time with us as you have been with your new lover! What a joyous occasion! We should drink to their new union.”

In fairness, it was nice that Thor was so supportive and had gone around with Bruce to make everyone their choice of tea, coffee or alcohol.

It was only later when Bucky had insisted that they go back to the penthouse that Tony realised exactly what a far-reaching decision he’d made.

Bucky had taken a beer from the communal living room and Tony had poured a scotch. Bucky had dragged him to the couch and put his feet in the man’s lap. Tony had let it all happen and they were drinking in silence as Bucky absently stroked his leg.

“So,” Bucky said, “that was unexpected. I thought you’d made it obvious we were going to stay behind closed doors.”

Tony’s gaze darted to Bucky’s. He knew what was happening. JARVIS was damn good at detecting Loki’s magic, but you could never be too careful. Tony shifted his glass from hand to hand.

“I made a mistake.”

“You mean fucking Loki?” Tony met his gaze. “You know I don’t hold that against you, right?” Bucky took a sip of his beer. “He’s hot. Why not give him a roll in the sack? We both know he’s not exactly the guy you settle down and marry.” Bucky’s face got intense. “But I always wanted to get married, ever since I was young.” He chuckled, some emotion flicking through his eyes that was too fast to catch. “Always thought I’d marry a blond.”

Tony blinked. Then he stared. Because, surely not. Surely Bucky wasn’t saying that.

“But you’re a hell of a catch,” Bucky said, his hand running up Tony’s leg, their gazes never dropping. “And I’m in it for the long haul.”

Tony didn’t know what to say. Not when he couldn’t be sure if Loki was eavesdropping (although why the hell would he? Not like he’d give a damn who Tony fucked.) Not when he didn’t know if Bucky had underhandedly just said that he once had a thing for Steve.

But Tony had put this into motion, and he wasn’t the kind of person to back down or let someone call his bluff.

“The long haul’s what I’m after,” he found himself saying. “I’m not getting any younger.” He smiled faintly. “And it’d be nice to have someone again.” He swirled his scotch. “It’s not just about sex. It’s about waking up and knowing the person beside you isn’t going anywhere.”

That’s what he’d wanted from Loki. What he’d hoped they’d be able to have.

He could still remember the sight of the mage lying naked and flushed on his bed, the faintest smile on his lips and his hair in disarray. Loki hadn’t looked distant and impenetrable, he’d looked soft and near enough to touch, kiss and share something more than just sex with.

Bucky’s thumb pressing into his leg made him jerk up. He met the man’s gaze and found Bucky smiling.

“We’ll take it a day at a time, Tony,” he said and Tony knew he was talking about the ruse not their make-believe relationship. “I ain’t afraid of falling in love. I’m not about to turn around and run from a chance at it.”

And if Loki was listening, that was a hell of a jab.

And because he was still so fucking angry and hurt, when Bucky leant forward, Tony didn’t hesitate to meet him in another kiss.

“How strange, Sir,” JARVIS said, breaking their kiss abruptly. “For a moment, my sensors seemed to register Mr Liesmith’s seidr spike within the penthouse. Most peculiar as it is now quite erratic in his rooms.”

Bucky smirked and his eyebrows rose.

“Oh yeah, Stark, this guy has no interest in you.”

Tony rolled his eyes and crossed his arms. “That means nothing, Barnes.”

Bucky tilted back his head on the couch and had another sip of beer.

“Either way, I’m not leaving this penthouse until you’ve got a giant fucking hickey on your neck. Even better if you keep me here overnight.”

“Why the hell do you care so much?”

Bucky paused with his beer at his lips before looking over at Tony. He gave another of those faint shrugs.

“Told you, Stark. Always hoped I’d marry a blond.” His lips twitched sadly. “You snooze you lose.” He held out his beer between them. “Maybe one of them will wake up.”

Tony thought it was as unlikely as a snowstorm in a desert, but he still held out his scotch and let their drinks clink in what was possibly the saddest toast in existence.

Here they were, a couple of eligible bachelors who’d fallen for the two people who’d never want them back.

True to his word, Bucky left a giant hickey on his neck (which was the god damn strangest thing. He’d never had a guy suck on his neck without any plans to have sex) and stayed the night. In his bed, lest Loki magically sneak in and find them in separate rooms.

Tony thought Bucky was being overdramatic, but that spike of magic kept him from protesting too much.

It was actually funny how well he slept with the guy beside him. Bucky didn’t move in bed and didn’t take up much space. He also woke up with the same groan and need for coffee. They had sat at the bench in solidarity, sipping their drinks with their eyes half open.

When Bucky had perked up, he hadn’t bothered to change from his borrowed pyjamas. Choosing to wander down to the communal lounge in an old Black Sabbath shirt, pants that were too short and messy bed hair.

Tony’s lips had twitched with amusement, just imagining the Avengers reactions. But then he’d pictured Loki reacting and had needed to put down his coffee and go have a shower before he lingered too long on that thought.

When he finally went downstairs, he was refreshed and hadn’t bothered to hide the mark sitting high on his neck. Tony was relieved that when he exited the elevator there was no one there, specifically a glaring and dismissive mage. He followed the sound of voices to the same room where he’d first kissed Bucky.

The man was sitting on the couch, grinning and asking Steve to make breakfast. The captain’s back was to him and he seemed tenser than usual. Bruce was sitting by the breakfast bar, sipping a tea and looking between the two men with a wary frown. Bucky caught sight of him and his smile widened.

“Hey doll.”

There was a clatter as Steve dropped whatever he was holding. Everyone looked at him.

“You right there, Steve?” Tony asked.

“Yes. Fine,” he hurried to say.

He didn’t look up or glance Tony’s way. Tony frowned. He actually wanted to address a few things. One, being called doll, and another, just whether Steve was reacting to a relationship between two guys or if it was something else. Something that might work in Bucky’s favour.

Instead, before he could do either, he felt someone behind him. He turned instinctively and swallowed hard at finding Loki there. He looked up, expecting to meet the mage’s cold green eyes. Instead, he found the man’s attention fixated on his neck.

His mark.

He almost wanted to bring a hand up to cover it, but he kept it at his side. When Loki finally met his gaze, his eyes were completely unreadable. His face as blank as marble. Tony didn’t know what he’d expected, but the absence of anything hurt more than he’d anticipated.

Tony didn’t know how long they would have stared at each other if Thor hadn’t walked around the corner. He was just as boisterous as ever and his loud laugh made Tony flinch. It was hidden, thankfully, as the man clapped his shoulder.

“I see you have had a fine evening with your lover!” He wrapped an arm around Tony’s shoulders and tugged him further into the room and towards Barnes. “Ah!” He said, “and Barnes wears your clothes! You are truly a courting couple. My blessings to you both.”

“Thanks, Thor,” Tony mumbled.

Bucky continued to grin. He looked like he was having the time of his life. It was impressive. Tony would never have imagined he was the same guy who, last night, had confessed his heart was halfway across the room and had been for nearly a century.

“Glad it’s nice and obvious.” Bucky was close enough to grab his wrist and tug him down until he was all but lying on the man. “I’d hate to have to punch one of you guys to keep him. Sorry to say it, but some habits die hard. It’s just what you did when you saw another guy eyeing your dame or gent, right, Stevie?”

The captain didn’t answer, but Thor laughed. “Indeed. But you do not need to worry, my friend. You shall have no competition from us.”

It would have been the perfect time for someone to stand up and complain. To say there would be competition or some kind of challenger. Instead, the place was silent. Unnaturally so. When Tony shifted enough to look around Thor, he found Steve’s back still to the room and Loki doing the same. He was making tea while the captain continued to cook breakfast.

Tony couldn’t be sure, but he didn’t think he’d ever seen either man stand so stiffly or be so quiet. Thor was oblivious but Bruce was frowning at them contemplatively. Bucky’s metal arm stayed snug around his waist while the other pulled on a bit of his hair.

He glanced up and met the man’s gaze. Bucky had his eyebrows raised. Something in the expression seemed to say ‘I told you so’. Tony just rolled his eyes. Because, he still wasn’t ready to buy into Loki liking him.

There could be a hundred other reasons for Loki’s reactions. He wasn’t about to get his hopes up again only for Loki to shoot him down with even stronger flames.

Getting used to dating Bucky was surprisingly easy. He didn’t crash in the penthouse every night, but he came down to the lab to provide lunch and a kiss on the cheek. He even tried to fake maintenance on his arm to get him to leave his projects if he looked frazzled.

It was actually kind of amusing. Kind of nice.

Bucky was funny and it was a little like being with Pepper. He’d forgotten how nice just having a companion could be.

(Especially since nothing else had really changed. Loki still avoided him. Bruce still worked in the lab, and looked entertained whenever Bucky showed up. And Steve seemed to have vanished as easily as Loki.)

The first week passed in this strange rush that never quite seemed like it was real.

Bucky even tried to pull the Coney Island trick on him, but he’d flatly refused. When Bucky had then suggested that he get out one of his “fancy fucking cars” and show him if it can really hit a decent speed. Well. That was just asking for trouble.

It was a lot like hanging out with a friend. Only, Bucky would grab his hand, smack another kiss on his temple and call him ‘doll’.

He got so used to it that it didn’t even seem strange. And when they re-entered the tower, bursting with energy, it seemed normal. They were laughing and recounting their wild ride through the city before reaching the race track he’d hired for the day. He didn’t even notice what they looked like. Bucky’s arm was around his shoulders, keeping him snug against his side. Their attention was focused on each other. Tony was gesturing with his hands and Bucky was beaming.

For a few seconds the world, their heartache and their ruse didn’t exist.

Until it came crashing down with the sound of someone stumbling and a sharp, “Oh.”

Bucky, to his credit, didn’t stiffen or flinch. He just lifted his head and smiled easily.

“Hey Stevie.”

Tony looked up and he… well, he fucking felt for Bucky. Not just sympathy but agitation. Steve looked uncomfortable. He wouldn’t meet their gazes and for a guy his size, he managed to hunch his shoulders impressively.

And Tony knew what it was like to stand in front of the person you wanted and have none of the reactions you hoped for or desired.

At least Loki, for all his faults, wasn’t homophobic.

“Hey Steve.” Tony couldn’t keep the coldness from his tone. “Got a problem with something?”

Steve’s head snapped up. His eyes were wide and he looked blindsided.

“Tony,” Bucky said quietly.

But Tony wanted to fucking know because if he was playing gay boyfriends with Bucky and there was a homophobe on the team, Tony was going to do something about it.

“No,” Tony said, not looking at Bucky. “I’m not having it. I know you both come from a time where men get beat up and jailed for this, but if he’s got a problem then-”

“I would never have a problem,” Steve insisted, his eyes wide and earnest. “I don’t… I’d never… some of the only people who were kind to me back then were… were…”

“Gay,” Bucky said. “Yeah, some of your artist friends were.” He huffed. “And they all saw right through me.”

Steve’s eyes, if possible, went even wider.

“You… they… did you?”

Bucky shrugged. “Ain’t wrong, Stevie. They didn’t want no dame and I…” He smiled faintly. “I was happy kissing a dame or a gent. Even back then.”

Steve looked like his mind had been blown. He was staring at his friend as if he’d never seen him before. And strangely, Tony didn’t feel a desire to squirm and leave the conversation, instead, he wanted to stand by Bucky’s side and offer him support.

Steve might have said he wasn’t against men being gay, but if he turned around and said he would never kiss them, then Bucky was still going to need a shoulder to lean against.

“I never knew,” Steve whispered.

“Well, it’s not something you say. Not back then. It’s a secret you don’t ever tell.”

Steve’s expression immediately cleared for determination and seriousness. He stepped forward and cupped Bucky’s shoulder. Tony dislodged himself slightly, feeling a little like a third wheel.

“Bucky, I’d have never told anyone. Or done any of the things some others might have done if they'd found out. I’d have stopped them.”

Bucky’s lip twitched . “Woulda beaten up guys in back alleys for me?”

“You know it.”

Bucky’s smile spread wider and Steve even started to smile back. Tony knew they’d forgotten he was still there. When the elevator dinged, Steve let go of Bucky like he’d been burned and jumped back half a foot. Tony raised his eyebrows.

Huh. Maybe Bucky’s got more chance than I’d thought.

“Hey Banner,” Bucky said.

Tony looked over his shoulder. Bruce had his nose in a book and waved absently, not even seeming to truly register any of them. He walked past without stopping, but, he’d well and truly ruined the moment that Steve and Bucky had been sharing.

Bucky wrapped an arm back around his shoulders and started to tug him down the hall.

“Come on, Steve. We were gonna get some lunch. You can join.”

“Thanks,” Steve said, sounding awkward again, “but I was going to the gym.”

“Your loss.”

Tony had his head cocked to still half-see Steve and it was why he heard it. It was said so quietly, he almost wondered if he’d imagined it. But he was sure Steve had whispered, “I guess it is,” before leaving for the elevator.

It was why he turned back to Bucky. The man was frowning so he nudged him in the side. He met the man’s gaze and raised his eyebrows. Bucky’s frown deepened and he shrugged stiffly. Tony rolled his eyes.

Even though Bucky was denying it, Tony still thought it looked more promising that Steve liked Bucky back than Loki ever liking him.

The funny thing to come from the whole situation was that he really started to like Bucky. More than he ever had before. If they’d been friends before, they became better friends during their ruse. He liked sitting in the penthouse with him watching movies and critiquing the character’s every move. He liked getting a coffee and a sandwich from Bucky even though the man didn’t spend any time at all in the lab beyond his routine maintenance.

He liked showing up in the communal lounge to see Clint and Bucky warring on Mario Kart only to walk over, kiss Bucky’s cheek in passing and hear Clint curse violently as Bucky immediately became more determined and won the game.

It was just… it was nice.

It was almost like having Rhodey in the tower all the time. Not that he ever kissed or was kissed by Rhodey, but at the core? Yeah, it was like having a friend around all the time. The Avengers were good, but they were never very close. Tony also rarely did anything one on one with anyone but Bruce.

Or Loki.

Not that the mage had been giving him the time of day lately. It seemed that wherever he was Loki wasn’t. JARVIS hadn’t even registered any more magic spikes. It was as if Loki had locked himself in his room and refused to come out.

Which made it a problem when one of the projects he’d been working on with the mage (before they’d had sex) turned into something he couldn’t finish without Loki’s input. He’d put it off at first, not wanting to face the mage.

But as the days passed and Loki was a no show, he decided to just get it the hell over with. He’d told Bucky of his plans the night before. The man had listened and frowned, but had promised to be nearby if he needed anything. Particularly, a quick distraction.

It made the whole encounter seem less daunting. If it would only take JARVIS noticing his distress for Bucky to sweep in and help him, then it would make it a lot easier to pretend that he didn’t still want Loki more than anyone else.

(Or maybe he was just fooling himself about how easy that would be.)

Before going he drunk a coffee to settle his nerves and paced briefly around the lab before determinedly entering the elevator. He hit the button for Loki’s floor and refused to fidget. He’d bluffed his way through his kidnapping with the Ten Rings, he’d handled the most vicious and spiteful journalists and he’d pretended to be fine while he was fucking dying.

It shouldn’t have been hard to talk to a guy he’d fucked once and only known for a year. He should have been more nervous when the man had stopped being an enemy. Instead, it was now that made all the difference.

(He supposed, in most of those situations, it hadn’t been his heart on the line, just his reputation or his life.)

He arrived sooner than he wanted, but he resolutely stepped inside and walked into the entrance space. All the tower’s floors opened into a shared living room. Loki hadn’t liked that to begin with, disapproving of the infringement on his privacy. Natasha had felt the same. But they’d both quickly locked or booby-trapped their doors and everyone simply learnt not to go deeper inside without express permission or their guidance.

Tony lingered just inside the room for a few seconds. Loki was usually prompt at ambushing the people who dared to enter his living quarters. Instead, Tony was left resisting the urge to shuffle awkwardly.

Oh, fuck this. You’re a grown man and he’s an asshole.

“Loki?” Tony called, refusing to be cowed anymore. “You here or what?”

He didn’t think at first that the mage would answer. He wondered if he was even there (but JARVIS would have told him if he was on a fool’s errand.) But then one of the doors opened and out walked Loki in all his regal, gorgeous glory.

He was in leather pants, a green linen tunic and thigh high boots. He was sans a jacket, but he still managed to look just as intimidating as when he was on the battlefield.

“Stark,” he said coldly. “Why are you bothering me with your presence?”

If he hadn’t been bracing for it, he would have flinched. Instead, he plastered a smile on his face.

“Well, since you’ve been off hibernating in your room, I’ve been trying to work out those projects we started, but since I don’t have magic, it makes it a little bit hard.”

“Oh?” Loki sniped. “You have not been too busy with your reformed soldier?”

Tony blinked, a little taken aback. “What?”

“It is a wonder you have managed any task. Banner complains of his continued presence in your lab every day.”

Tony blinked again. Sure, he knew Bruce had teased him about Bucky’s frequent visits, but he hadn’t known he’d actually complained.

“Actually, Mr Liesmith,” JARVIS interjected. “I believe Dr Banner’s tone would indicate amusement rather than annoyance at Master Barnes’ affectionate visits to see Sir.”

For a second all he registered was the snipe, but then he registered JARVIS’ wording. Master Barnes. If that wasn’t JARVIS laying down the fucking approval, he didn’t know what else to take from it.

Then, as if to further bamboozle him, Loki clenched his jaw. Loki looked… angry.

“I’m uncertain how you, a being of electronics is better suited to read inflection than I am.”

“Hey,” Tony immediately interjected, angry on JARVIS’ behalf. “Don’t take out your shit mood on JARVIS. You want to cower in your fucking room that’s fine-”

“I do not cower-”

“Well, you sure as fuck do something, because I hate to break it to you, Sparkles. I’m not the only one who’s realised you’ve decided to bury yourself in here.”

“What I do with my time is not the business of you plebian mortals.”

“Yeah, well how about you stop acting like an arrogant asshole and either help me with my project or sign off on it. Because I am this fucking close to asking Thor to send me down some Asgardian mage to do the job you so clearly can’t fucking do.”

Loki actually jerked back, his eyes were wide and he looked not only affronted but… something else. Something Tony couldn’t decipher. Frankly, he wasn’t sure he wanted to know what was on Loki’s face. He was certain it would just be another insult or version of disgust.

Crossing his arms, Tony glared at the mage. His anger was burning hot and that was good, because all too often when they’d argued in the past, something else had burned hotter. The thing that had ended with them kissing and making good use of the bed in his penthouse.

“You would not,” Loki said, his voice oddly quiet, oddly flat.

It loosened his tension slightly and made him relax his arms a little. He couldn’t help it. For all that Loki was an asshole Tony still… well, he liked him, he wanted him. He lived for the moments when Loki seemed to thaw slightly. When the walls seemed to come down just enough that he could see underneath.

And no matter how many times it burned him, he kept coming back.

“What else am I going to do, Loki?” He asked, his own voice lowering. “What other choice have you left me?”

He felt like he was talking about a hell of a lot more than a project. Loki’s green eyes locked on him and his breath caught slightly. He felt pinned to the spot like a bug. He felt his heart skip and for a moment, the whole world seemed to stop.

And then the sirens started.

Fuck, he thought.

“I apologise, Sir. It seems New York is under attack again.”

What great fucking timing. Tony turned away and ran a hand through his hair.

“Yeah, we’re on it, JARVIS. Get the suit ready, and give me the coordinates.”

“Of course, Sir. Master Barnes asks that you remember what you promised last night.”

Despite himself, Tony snorted and smiled.

“Tell him he can say it to my face when the battle’s over.”

Because he refused to let Bucky knock out more bad guys than him and claim victory. He was getting that last slice of pizza. He didn’t care how fucking precise and badass the former Winter Soldier was.

After much debate over the comms (and more than a few mutterings from Clint about ‘old married couples’) he and Bucky decided to call it a draw. Especially since Steve, Thor and Loki also seemed keen to decimate as many of the enemies as possible. No one else got much of a punch in. At one point, Tony was sure he saw Natasha leaning against a pole and filing a nail.

When they got back to the tower, Bucky came down with him to the lab. He pulled off the armour and checked it over for any damage.

“Don’t know why you’re looking, you barely got to do anything in it.”

Tony snorted. “Not sure why you’re here. Not like your arm even got to wave at an enemy.”

“I’m here for your gorgeous, sexy ass, Tony. What else?”

Tony chuckled. He also looked over his shoulder and winked. He then made a point of bending down, just to give the man an eyeful. Bucky laughed. He also shifted and before Tony got much of a chance to move, Bucky was behind him and gently slapped his ass. He jerked and looked over his shoulder. Bucky had the biggest grin on his face.

Tony rolled his eyes but stood up. He pointed a tool at him, but Bucky just grabbed the hand holding the tool and tugged him close. Tony was a little startled as they were soon pressed chest to chest.

Sure, he’d gotten used to touching and flirting with Bucky, but this felt a little different.

“So, since we didn’t get to burn up all that energy,” Bucky said, “how about we make nice work of that desk over there. It’s not like,” and he suddenly raised his voice, “we have an audience or anything.”

There was a moment’s pause and Bucky looked over his shoulder, Tony did the same. For a moment, there was nothing but then the air shimmered and Loki appeared.

“You requested my assistance,” Loki bit out. “But I did not expect to find your laboratory so clearly occupied.”

Bucky let him go.

“Nah,” he said. “I know Tones has been waiting to finish up some projects with you.”

Bucky ducked in and kissed his cheek and gently squeezed his ass, making Tony twitch. Bucky then pulled back and walked towards Loki. They held gazes. There was a definite tension in the air, but Bucky just bared his teeth in the face of it.

“I’ll see you later tonight, Tony. Save some of that boundless energy for me.”

Loki’s glare intensified, but Bucky just walked past him. Tony swallowed, holding tight to the tool like a shield as Bucky disappeared and he was left alone in the lab with Loki. The mage looked coiled like a spring and far from ready to actually help him with anything.

Instead, he looked ready to stab something.

The fight clearly hadn’t taken the edge off whatever was pissing him off.

“Look,” Tony said carefully, “if you don’t want to, I can just-”

“I am here am I not?” Loki snapped, finally looking back at him. “But if you cannot keep your hands off that dim-witted soldier, then I will take my seidr elsewhere.”

Tony held up his hands in open surrender.

“Fine, whatever. If you want to work on the projects, that’s fine by me. Let me just get changed.”

His undersuit wasn’t the best thing to work in, but he kept a spare change of clothes in the lab. He also had a small shower for when he got covered in something or had to make a quick attempt at presentability.

However, unlike normal, he felt slightly awkward. Loki had already seen him naked, God, he’d done more than looked. Tony wanted him to look again. And touch. But there was no chance of that happening. So instead, he was forced to grab the clothes and turn on the shower. It was a covered space, so Loki couldn’t see him, but he felt exposed as he stripped inside the cubicle, washed off the sweat and grime from the battle (and the rest of the day) and thought about how different it would be if Loki was his lover.

If it was him not Bucky, I’m sure he would have kicked out the unwanted guest and got right to fucking me.

Tony’s heart ached and his body reacted to the thought. He had to quickly cool the water down. The last thing he needed was to get aroused with the object of his attraction and affection only a few feet away and far from interested in reciprocating either.

Remembering the man’s continued harsh words was enough to get him through the shower quickly and without ill-effects. He towelled down and got changed, his hair was still damp and he wasn’t wearing shoes as he walked back through the lab to find Loki.

The man was standing with his arms crossed and looking around with a narrowed gaze as if he was attempting to locate something or unlock hidden mysteries. When he was an enemy, that would have been unnerving even worrying, now it was just strange.

Loki had spent long hours in the lab with him. He knew it probably as well as Bruce.

When the mage turned and looked at him, Tony tried not to react. It felt like when he was in the mage’s rooms before the battle had commenced. The air was heavy with a weighted tension as if there was something important that needed to be said.

But Tony had already tried to say his part. Whatever Loki might want to say, that was a mystery only the mage could enlighten him on. He stayed quiet, just looking at Loki. He’d changed out of his armour and was in his normal casual clothes.

He was so fucking gorgeous it ached to look at him. The unattainable object that Tony could still remember kissing.

And suddenly, Tony just felt tired.

“Are we going to work on this or what?”

“Oh?” Loki immediately fired off. “Eager to get back to your lover?”

“How about eager to do more than just stand here like an idiot?”

Loki huffed a breath and looked away. Funnily though, he didn’t immediately call him an idiot. An opening Tony had only realised was there after he’d snapped it. Normally, Loki didn’t hesitate to dish out his insults, whether the person was around to hear them or not.

(He preferred when they were there if only to inflict maximum damage.)

Tony frowned and watched the mage, trying to work him out. But he was as complicated as ever (as fascinating as ever).

But as much as he wanted to uncover more layers and understand them, Tony knew it would burn him like always if he tried to get close. So, for once, he did the wise thing and didn’t try to press closer. Instead, he turned away and went straight to his computers and pulled up their project.

His suit had barely sustained any damage, it could keep for a few more hours. He had others he could use in the meantime if something immediate happened. Frankly, he could go out in that one again without a runover. JARVIS had proclaimed it more or less untouched, but, he did always like to be safe rather than sorry.

“Right,” he said. “So, I was tinkering with this and-”

Tony stiffened as, for the second time, someone pressed up against him. Granted, Loki didn’t stand as close as Bucky, but it was still far closer than he usually stood. Tony looked up at him to find Loki was already looking down at him.

He swallowed and felt torn between the urge to get closer or hurriedly step back.

But the former was winning. He wanted to reach up and touch Loki’s chest as he had in their penthouse. To twist his fingers in black strands and drag the taller man down until their lips could lock. He wanted Loki’s hands back on his waist, digging in and leaving bruises before all but carrying him to the bed.

(But he also wanted something softer, a tentative brush of mouths and slow explorations with their hands as they remembered what the other felt and tasted like. As they pulled back and fucking said that they felt something more than a ‘sating of lust’.)

Yet, as was becoming fucking common (if ridiculous for a tower this size) the moment was broken by someone approaching.

“Oh,” Bruce said, sounding shocked. “Did I interrupt something?”

His voice turned strange towards the end, almost accusatory. Tony forced his gaze back to the screen and away from Loki.

“No,” Tony said quickly. Staring pointedly at his research. “Loki is finally here to help me finish this project.”

He didn’t move away and neither did Loki. Tony could feel the mage’s gaze on his neck. It made his hair stand on end and also reminded him of the still healing mark Bucky had placed there. He didn’t even have to look to know it was where Loki’s gaze was fixated.

He also didn’t have to look to be able to sense Bruce’s suspicion. It almost seemed to speak of disapproval and Tony hated how it made him feel guilty. Because nothing was happening with Loki and he and Bucky weren’t even a real couple, but his stomach still rolled with a sense of… guilt.

He didn’t even know how that was possible.

How could he be feeling unfaithful to someone who knew their relationship was fake and who knew that he was half in love with the man beside him?

When he joined Bucky a few hours later in the penthouse, Bucky was laying on the couch watching a movie. He paused it and raised his eyebrows.

“So,” he said, “did Loki jump you?”

Tony barked a harsh, disparaging laugh.

“No. He was a fucking asshole, as usual and Bruce is giving me the cold shoulder because he’s probably worked out who I’d rather be fucking.”

“Huh,” Bucky said. “So, it didn’t go well then.”

“No, it fucking didn’t,” Tony said, just feeling tired.

Tony had started walking towards the bar, but Bucky got up and intercepted him. He took him by the shoulders and started leading him to the bedroom. Tony was too confused to stop it, but he did protest.

“What the hell? Where are we going?”

“You’re getting on the bed.”

“Oh? Making good on your promise from the lab?”

“Well, I am going to be getting my hands on you, that’s for sure.”

It took Tony a second to realise, and when he did, he didn’t even bother to put up a fight. He laid down when he was directed and took off his shirt when it was commanded. Bucky was soon going to the bathroom and when he came back, he straddled Tony’s hips.

“Right so, one hand’s going to be cold as hell.”

Tony rolled his eyes. “No shit, Sher-fucking hell!”

Bucky laughed. Tony tried to look over his shoulder and glare as the man used his hands to rub oil into Tony’s back and give him a massage.

It was honestly nice (despite the initial freezing feel of the metal one). He couldn’t actually think of anyone who’d given him a massage when he wasn’t paying them. It meant he quickly settled into the man’s touch and enjoyed the attention. He was also really good at getting the knots out of his back. He was soon groaning softly and turning into pure putty.

And maybe it was just circumstance, maybe it was because he’s been wound up all fucking day after his two conversations with Loki, but somewhere between relaxing from a massage, he started to feel something else happen. His eyes snapped open and he tensed a little. Bucky immediately felt the change.

“Tony?”

“Um,” Tony said. But, well, he’d never shied away from sex. “Getting a bit into it is all.”

“Huh,” Bucky said.

His hands then started to move, taking a slower progression, a more languid sweep of his back. Tony was still stiff (in more ways than fucking one) but he carefully looked over his shoulder. Bucky met his gaze and when they shared this look it was easier to interpret than any of Loki’s.

Because, they were both single, they were both attracted to men, and they’d spent the better part of a few weeks pretending to date and sleep together.

When Bucky shifted, Tony rolled over onto his back. Bucky hesitated before his hands came down to Tony’s chest. Tony slowly raised his hands, touching Bucky’s shoulders. The man leant down and this time, when they kissed, it wasn’t for a ruse.

Tony’s hand slid into Bucky’s hair and he groaned when Bucky rolled his hips. His other hand gripped Bucky’s shirt for a moment before sliding underneath. The man was pure muscle and Tony only got to explore it for a second before Bucky broke the kiss, grabbed his shirt and tossed it off. Tony had seen Bucky shirtless before, it was often his state of dress when he was working on the man’s arm.

But it was different now.

They both seemed to be taking a moment to look their fill, to see each other in a different light. This wasn’t a platonic or casual appraising glance this was… intimate.

When they locked gazes again, Bucky bent down and they kissed once more, their mouth’s opening as it deepened, their pelvis grinding as their arousal slowly built. The kiss broke as they started to pant. Bucky’s eyes had darkened and when he ran his fingers down Tony’s chest, his breath left him in a rush. The man’s fingers stopped at the edge of his jeans.

They caught and held gazes. This was it, the threshold moment. Tony swallowed, he also slid his hand to Bucky’s cheek. It was rough with faint stubble, so unlike Loki. Bucky was also stockier, not as lean, plus there was a metal fucking arm.

But it wasn’t the differences that mattered here. Bucky was funny, attractive and a damn good kisser. He was a friend.

When they held gazes, Tony knew he didn’t have to speak for things to be understood. They were both lonely, in love, and without options when it came to intimacy. It was about sex, about release and knowing the other wouldn’t expect anything more than that.

Tony gave the faintest nod, he then followed it by pulling Bucky back down for another kiss. Bucky’s fingers started to unbutton his jeans.

“Sir!”

Bucky drew back and Tony flinched.

“For fuck’s sake, what?” he snapped.

“There is a fire on one of the lower floors that is growing in intensity and-”

Bucky was up and off him and Tony was hurrying to his feet. He buttoned his jeans as he left the bedroom.

“How big is it? What started it? Was it the lab?”

“The cause is unknown, Sir. There is no one on that floor presently but I am investigating-”

“Yeah?” Bucky snapped. “Well, what if the God of fucking Fire started it? I fucking swear, Tony. That guy doesn’t want you getting laid unless it’s him doing the fucking.”

Tony didn’t bother acknowledging that. He was too busy making sure people were warned so they could evacuate while making his way down to the area in question. When he got there with Bucky, he found Steve and Clint also present. The two of them had already doused the flames which had only damaged the most superficial of items.

Tony was just relieved no one was hurt, nor anything important.

He didn’t get long to explore the damage before Clint wolf-whistled. “New fashion trend, is it? Half fucked with blue balls to match?”

“Fuck you, Barton,” Tony snapped.

He also ran a hand through his hair, the reality of what they’d almost done sinking in.

“Hey man, don’t get pissed at me just because you couldn’t get a bit of cock.” He frowned. “Or wait, was it the other way around? Which one of you-”

“Thank you, Clint,” Steve gritted out.

“Hey, I’m just saying, I have a bet with Nat and-”

Tony spun to look at him. “Natasha is betting which one of us tops the other?”

Clint scrunched his nose. “Well, it’s kind of an informal bet.”

Tony rolled his eyes. “So, the bet’s all in your head. Honestly, why do you even care which dick goes where? Planning to try and get some of the action?”

“You wish you could have access to this ass,” Clint countered, pointing at the spot in question.

Tony shook his head, smiling despite himself. As far as he knew, Clint was as straight as an arrow (and yes, he’d made that joke more than once) but it was nice that he didn’t shy from joking about it. Tony had met a few people who reared back at two men together. It was just nice that no one on the team gave a damn.

Well. Almost.

“Huh,” Bucky said.

Tony immediately turned to him and walked over. He’d kicked a chair out of the way and was looking at a spot on the floor with great intensity.

“What is it?”

“Looks like the point of ignition,” Bucky said. “Odd though, most fire has a source. This looks remarkably… sudden.”

“Sudden?” Steve asked.

Bucky shot a look at Tony and drawled, “You could almost say magical.”

Tony wasn’t impressed. “Whatever. Probably just faulty wiring or something.”

Yet, even as he said it, he wasn’t convinced. Bucky was right, there usually was sources for fire and nothing was standing out at as the culprit. The fire did look it had started from nothing.

In a place out of the way with things of no importance.

Yet, for all that things were pointing in a very prominent direction, Tony just couldn’t fully accept it.

Because, he’d been in the lab with Loki for hours, if the guy wanted to say or do something to stop him being with Bucky, the mage had been given ample chance. If he hadn’t said anything then, why would he bother setting a fire now?

After the clean up and the assurance that nothing else would catch alight, everyone stood a little awkwardly in the room. Steve wouldn’t hold either of their gazes, Clint was looking between Steve and them with a small frown and in the end, Bucky declared it was time everyone went to bed.

Steve had cringed but muttered something before fleeing into the elevator, the rest of them had followed suit. But when Steve had stopped on his floor, Bucky had given him a look and Tony had nodded. A moment later, the man was following Steve out, wrapping an arm around his shoulders and putting knuckles in his side. The doors closed with Tony able to see Steve cracking a small smile.

Clint remained quiet during the ride, the silence contemplative in a way Tony didn’t even want to guess at. When he got to the penthouse, it was dark and quiet. He went into the bedroom and found the overturned oil, thankfully not leaking on his bedding. He picked it up and put it on the nightstand. He then dropped down on his back and stared at the ceiling while thinking about what had almost happened.

It would have been… good. He could admit the sex would have given a great endorphin rush and some momentary pleasure, but it also wouldn’t have fixed anything. It wouldn’t have been a mistake but… he wasn’t sure he wanted to go through with it if given the opportunity to start again.

He liked Bucky. Liked him a lot. He was definitely hot enough to fuck, but he found he didn’t want to disturb the friendship they’d been growing.

He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t know how much time had passed before someone padded into the room. JARVIS had dimmed the lights, but he was still able to see Bucky in the dark.

“Hey,” he said, coming to sit down on the bed. He’d pulled on a shirt since leaving to spend time with Steve.

“All good with blondie?”

Bucky smiled faintly. “Yeah.”

Tony nodded and they descended into silence. A few seconds later, Bucky shifted on the bed to lay down beside him. They were shoulder to shoulder as they looked up at the ceiling. They didn’t say a word, but when Tony shifted to look at Bucky, he turned to meet his gaze. There was a certain understanding that was easy to recognise.

We’re not going to finish that.

He smiled and Bucky smiled back.

“Come on,” Bucky said. “I’m fucking tired. Let’s go to sleep.”

“I’m not the one who spent a fucking hour downstairs,” Tony countered as he shifted to move the sheets.

“And you waited up for me, so what does that say?”

“That I’m too used to your snoring now to fall asleep in silence.”

“You’re such a bastard, you know that?”

“Yeah, yeah,” Tony muttered, getting under the sheets. “Well, night-night doll.”

Bucky grumbled something under his breath, but he also shifted closer on the mattress until his arm was brushing Tony’s back. Bucky liked to sleep in a position that allowed him to leap out of bed immediately. Tony had to admit, he was beginning to find it comforting to feel the warmth and hear the soft breathing of someone beside him at night.

In fact, it meant he could close his eyes and drift off to sleep with growing ease.

When he woke up in the morning, it was to the surprising feeling of fingers on his arm. He blinked open his eyes slowly, and for a brief moment, he saw black hair and thought it was Loki. But reality was quick to come to life. It was only painful for a second, before Bucky smiled and he smiled back.

He turned over fully on his back to find Bucky half sitting up and very much awake. He shifted to grab a mug from beside the bed. It was slightly cold coffee, but Tony still took it gratefully and had a long drink.

“I’ve been thinking about last night,” Bucky said.

Tony shot him a glance, feeling instantly awake. He thought they'd come to a silent agreement. He must have tensed more than he realised as Bucky rolled his eyes.

“Not that,” he replied. “I was thinking about our relationship.”

“Oh?” Tony asked, still feeling wary.

“Yeah.” He then grinned. “We’re not getting any younger, doll. Wanna marry me?”

Tony actually spit out some of his coffee, spraying the sheet and making Bucky laugh. Tony could only stare at him with pure incredulity.

“You fucking want to what?”

“Marry you,” Bucky said, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Put a ring on it. Spite a god. That kind of thing.”

“You don’t just fucking marry people for a joke.”

Bucky’s expression grew serious.

“It’s not a joke. They’re either going to be fucking oblivious forever, or they don’t give a damn about who we fuck. I don’t want to marry anyone else. If I marry you… well, it’ll be all right.” He cracked a small smile. “And we’ll have fooled the fucking world and a trickster god. That’s a pretty good reason too, right?”

Tony stared at him. He also shook his head.

“You’re insane.”

“I’m fucking practical. We’ve got a good thing here.” He gestured at them. “Why not cash in on it completely? Worse that can happen is someone works out we’re making a joke.”

“Or,” Tony stressed, “people don’t and we get fucking married.”

Bucky tilted his head. “Is that so bad? You’re certain he doesn’t want you back, right? Who else are you waiting for?”

And Tony pulled up short at that. Who else was he waiting for? Loki was kind of… it. At least, right now, possibly for a lot longer. If Bucky knew the truth and still wanted him. If the man had his own heart set elsewhere, well, it could be a pretty good thing, really.

They’d each have companionship and divorce was always an option.

Am I really considering this?

Yeah, he really was. He sipped more of his coffee as he contemplated it. When the cup emptied, Bucky grabbed it and went to get him another. Tony continued to think. He also decided to ask the one person who knew the particulars to weigh in.

“J?” he asked. “What do you think?”

There was a long moment’s silence before, “I believe Master Barnes would be quality husband material, Sir.”

“Thanks,” Bucky drawled, re-entering the room. “Just what I wanted to be. Material.”

Despite his words, he handed Tony a new mug and Tony took it.

He took it.

Oh, he thought, fully realising the significance of that. He took things from Bucky, had been doing it for days. Because he trusted him. Just like he trusted Pepper and Rhodey.

And somehow, that seemed to seal it for him.

Because really, with Loki removing himself from the running, who else was he waiting for?

“Okay,” Tony said.

“Okay?”

“Okay,” Tony said firmly. “Let’s get married.”

Bucky grinned. It started small but got wider and wider as the seconds passed. Tony had started to smile back but it quickly faded as he registered the look. It was the Coney Island look.

“Bucky, wait. What are you-”

But Bucky was already off the bed, his expression a little maniac.

“Hold that acceptance, Tony. This proposal needs something better than this to be believable.”

As Bucky left the room, Tony had another fortifying sip of coffee. He already had the sinking suspicion that he’d instigated something he wasn’t fully prepared to handle.

More coffee, he thought, drinking it down. Then I’ll be ready to deal with whatever the fuck I’ve just unleashed.

And despite his concerns, he did find his smile coming back. After all, he could do a lot worse in a husband than the foul-mouthed, maddening and supportive James Buchanan Barnes.

For the first few days, Tony walked around warily, but Bucky didn’t do anything. He never mentioned it and treated Tony exactly the same. He knew he was being lulled into a false sense of security, despite that, he did find himself relaxing into the familiar and comforting.

Bucky continued to hug, kiss and tease him and he continued to banter and offer the touches back. In fact, after the sex-that-wasn’t and their proposal chat, everything seemed to become a lot easier. Like something had settled. Even Natasha saw them together and smiled. She walked in on them on the couch, Bucky’s arm around his shoulders as he argued with Clint. Tony had been on his tablet, mostly ignoring them, but he’d glanced up and seen her expression.

It could have made him feel bad that they were conning all their friends. But it didn’t, instead, he just felt… good. After all, he and Bucky knew the truth, whatever conclusions everyone else drew was down to them.

So, yeah, Tony got comfortable. Or rather, he got comfortable about that.

Because Steve was distinctly over nice to him. It was like he was trying to compensate for something. But whenever it was him and Bucky, the man got twitchy and often beat a hasty retreat. Sometimes he looked at Bucky with something almost resembling wounded puppy dog eyes.

And as for Loki? Well, he was still his usual asshole self, but Tony noticed he didn’t hand out as many put downs. He also (in a distinct contrast to the weeks before) seemed to always be nearby. If Tony entered a room, it wouldn’t take long for Loki to show up.

If he was in the lab, Loki was there and sniping about his projects, or convincing Tony to start a new one with him. If and when Bucky showed up, Loki became frosty. He also did his best to keep him engaged in what they were doing rather than responding to Bucky. Sometimes, Loki would outright ignore Bucky’s presence or talk over him as if he wasn’t there.

It was confusing. It was also fucking… tiring.

Frankly, the only easy thing in his life at the moment was how well he and Bucky got along. The way they’d laugh over a meal and a drink as they watched a movie. Whatever complex emotional web was going on with their respected infatuations, it didn’t touch them when they were together.

Even with Bucky scheming in the background, Tony found he could just enjoy his time with the man. And with a week having passed since the fire incident (which Tony still refused to accept was Loki) he’d almost forgotten what the man was up to.

When they were called to battle again, Tony was just grateful to do something with his restless energy. Unfortunately, it didn’t last very long, leaving him more energised than before. As they flew back, Thor was glorifying the battle, not seeming to mind no one was paying him much attention.

Loki, as per usual, had chosen a spot beside him. He was leaning against the wall, seemingly bored out of his mind. But Tony couldn’t help but feel aware of him. He always did, but after a battle (after watching the man’s proficiency and talent as he decimated enemies) it made him even more attuned to him. Despite that, he was trying not to show it. Especially with Bruce on his other side.

(He’d gained enough narrow-eyed glances from the scientist to last him a lifetime.)

But despite chatting with Bruce, Tony couldn’t help noticing that Bucky was distinctly quiet and he knew that didn’t bode well. He kept glancing at him. He wasn’t the only one either. He saw Steve touch Bucky out of the corner of his eye and ask softly, “Buck?”

But they arrived before Tony could overhear any answer. JARVIS removed his armour, leaving him in the undersuit. They all piled into the tower but didn’t get a chance to go far inside or separate when Bucky called, “Tony?”

He paused and looked over his shoulder. “Yeah?”

“I need to talk to you.”

“Okay,” Tony said, trying to ignore the sudden blast of nerves that went through him.

“Oooh,” Clint teased. “That’s a bad start, Tony. You getting thrown in the doghouse for something?”

He saw Natasha cuff Clint’s head from the corner of his eye, but Tony was too focused on Bucky to give the archer his full attention. Bucky continued to look stern and serious.

“One of these days we’re going to die on that battlefield,” Bucky said.

It quickly quieted the others and made Tony’s tension increase.

“Well, that’s a bit heavy,” Tony said, trying for light-hearted but not sure he managed it.

“And how many regrets have we gained over the years, Tony?” Bucky asked, stepping closer. “How many times have we lost out because we were too slow or too fucking scared?”

“Wouldn’t have pegged you as the scared type,” Tony said, still trying to lighten the mood.

But his voice was too fucking loud in the sudden silence. Everyone was staring at them and Tony knew his eyes were a little too wide. Bucky stopped in front of him and cupped his chin. He stroked it with his thumb.

“Everyone gets scared,” Bucky said. “It’s what you do with it. Do you sit on your ass and let the good things pass by? Or do you grab hold tightly no matter how much it might burn?”

“Bucky…”

Bucky smiled. “What do you say, doll? Do you feel like making a proper gentleman out of me?”

Someone sucked in a sharp breath but it wasn’t him. Tony wanted to know who had reacted, but he also couldn’t look away. Come hell or high water – come Loki or Steve, or nothing at all. This was still real, and he was quite possibly staring at the man he’d spend his future with.

As if sensing some hesitance (or maybe, because deep down, they both did still want the ones they loved to say something to stop them) Bucky added, “I ain’t about to claim I love you yet. But I’m here to try. We’re both here to do that, aren’t we? To reach out and get someone. We’ve both been lonely too damn fucking long.”

And that really did say it all.

They were lonely, their hearts were locked elsewhere, but they’d found someone who could give them companionship and it was better than remaining alone.

And rather than say it aloud, Tony jerkily nodded. It was a yes and Bucky dragged him forward and kissed him. It only lasted a few seconds before Thor gave a booming cheer and laugh and they broke apart.

“Congratulations, dear friends!” He loudly proclaimed. “We must celebrate your soon-to-be nuptials!”

Tony looked over at their friends. Thor looked ecstatic and was stepping forward to no doubt slap their backs. Bruce’s expression was hard to read and Tony didn’t look at it too long. Clint and Natasha seemed surprised, but far from opposed. Steve looked fucking pale and Loki was just gone.

The mage’s absence hit like a punch to the gut, but Bucky wrapped an arm around his waist and Tony leant a little against the man. It helped.

And while he also couldn’t claim to love Bucky yet, he felt he would soon come to care for the man just as much as he did his Rhodey-bear.

It was a bit of a whirlwind as the group congratulated them and Thor insisted that they needed to hold a celebration. Clint backed him up saying an engagement party was the order for the night.

They soon left the penthouse to change, all while debating what to order (and dragging Steve along as the ‘obvious best man to be’.) Natasha rolled her eyes at them but followed behind and could be heard giving the occasional suggestions.

Bucky grabbed his hand and kissed the knuckles before following it with a wink. He’d then promised to meet up with him in an hour in the penthouse. He joined the group in the elevator. Bruce had stayed back long enough to search his features before saying, “I hope you know what you’re doing, Tony.”

He’d waved it off with a smile and a joke, but Bruce hadn’t seemed swayed. He’d still left with the others and Tony had closed his eyes and pulled in a deep breath before letting it out. He rubbed a hand across his face, trying not to wonder where Loki was and if he’d even attend the party to come.

“Hey JARVIS,” he began, turning towards his room. “Where is my-”

He startled, flinching back and his words faltering at finding Loki right in front of him.

“Jesus Christ, Loki. What the fuck-”

Loki was glaring, his hands curled into fists.

“He is nothing but a slacking of your affection and lust,” Loki snapped. “A temporary enjoyment.”

“He… what? You mean Bucky?”

“Do you think this pathetic attempt is not being noticed by all and sundry?”

“Okay, fuck you with the insults,” Tony growled, feeling pinpointed and hating it. “What the hell is your problem anyway?” Despite knowing better, Tony shoved Loki hard in the chest. The man didn’t move. “You want to say something? Fucking say it. Don’t just stand there and-”

He’d pulled back his hand, but Loki grabbed it and held tight. Not enough to hurt, but enough that Tony knew he wouldn’t be able to break free.

“Loki, what are you-”

Loki yanked him forward and before he could react, Loki’s mouth was on his. Tony gasped before he groaned, he slackened and kissed back. Loki’s free hand went to the back of his neck, holding him in place as the kiss deepened. Tony wrapped his arm around Loki’s neck, pressing against him and feeling his body light up at finally touching Loki again.

When they eventually broke apart, Tony gasped for air. Loki was also breathing heavier.

“See,” Loki said, his voice still harsh, “you only bed him because he is willing not because he is who you want.”

Tony flinched. He also yanked back with enough force it seemed to startled Loki who let him go. Tony felt rage boiling inside him as he glared at Loki.

“And what?” Tony spat. “Is this some bullshit attempt to fuck with me? Because fuck you, Loki. I tried to ask you out and you spat in my face. You think I would just sit back and pine over you like a fucking school girl?”

Loki’s eyes were a little wide and Bucky’s earlier words came back to Tony and he bitterly snapped them at the mage.

“You snooze you fucking lose. Grow up and act like an adult or get out of my fucking way. Because if you wanted to date or marry me, you only had to fucking ask. Now you’re just treating me like a toy you can pick up and throw away. Or get mad at when someone else took it out from under you.”

He was so angry, he walked around Loki, not game enough to touch him after what had just happened but not wanting to stay in his presence. Unfortunately, he heard Loki follow after him.

“You would marry him out of spite?”

Tony whirled back around. “I would marry him because he fucking asked. Because he’s nice to me. Because I like him-”

“But you are attracted to me.”

Tony laughed harshly. “Fuck yeah, I am. But when you act like this." He gestured at the man. “It reminds me why I’d be a fucking idiot to do anything more about it than class you as a regret.”

Loki flinched harshly and Tony felt a stab of vindicative pride. He also went to his room and slammed the door shut hard. He then closed his eyes and rested his forehead against it. His lips still tingled from Loki’s kiss and his heart raced from their shouted words.

And even knowing the man was a complete fucking asshole, he still couldn’t stop how much he wanted to go back into the room and touch him again. He wanted to dig deep and get to the core of what they were arguing about because he knew Loki well enough to know it wasn’t the heart of it.

He also knew Loki would be back. He didn’t know when, he didn’t know what would happen, but he doubted it would be pleasant for anyone.

Sighing, he pushed off the door and turned around – only to flinch again. Because Loki was there. He was there and Tony spared a moment to be shocked Loki hadn’t outright left before he was distracted by the mage holding up his hands in clear surrender.

“Anthony.”

“What?” Tony spat.

Loki seemed to be thinking very carefully. “I… approached that wrong.”

Tony laughed harshly. He also leant his back fully against the door. “You got that fucking right.”

Loki’s fingers noticeably tensed like he wanted to clench them into fists but resisted. Watching Loki try and restrain his emotions found Tony sighing heavily. He slumped further against the door and looked at the mage.

“Just… say what you want to say, Loki,” he said, feeling a familiar tiredness resurface. “I’d like to get this over with rather than drag it out any longer.”

Loki surprised him in that he… dropped his gaze. Tony frowned. Loki rarely looked away from people. He faced things head on with stubbornness, arrogance and hostility. This was… new.

“I am not… good with others,” Loki said. A smartass remark was on Tony’s tongue, but he repressed it. The air felt too tentative as if one wrong move would send Loki spiralling in a different, harsher direction. “Those whom I… like, even less so.”

Tony barely breathed. His heart was pounding so hard and something hopeful was unfurling almost painfully inside him.

“I am often… unwanted,” he said, each word seemingly dragged from him. “If I make them feel it first then it means… I am not… left to feel it.”

“You push people away before they push you,” Tony said quietly. “And you did that to me.”

Loki gave a harsh nod. He still didn’t look at him.

“But you pushed me into Bucky.”

Loki cringed so hard it went through his entire frame. Tony was a little fascinated. He’d never seen Loki so genuine in his emotions.

So honest.

Tony’s eyes widened and he pushed up a little more from the door.

He’s asking, he knew it in his gut. He’s being an adult. He’s trying to ask.

“Barnes was who you found,” Loki acknowledged. “But you are not content.” His upper lip curled and something harsh snaked out, “A pathetic little soldier who could not even begin to fulfil you.”

“And you could?” Tony asked.

Loki’s gaze snapped up to his - finally. And he could see why Loki had kept it on the ground. His expression said too much. It fucking ached. So much raw, harsh emotion. There was anger and pain and even self-loathing. He could see the man was tied in a knot – centuries of interactions and harshness fighting against his attempts to change his habits.

And Tony walked forward before he could stop himself. He stilled in front of the mage. He looked up at him, unable to stop taking in everything. He lifted his hand and gently touched his fingers to Loki’s jaw.

“And you could?” Tony repeated quietly.

“I want to try,” he forced out.

It was a confession that sounded harsh, but to Tony’s ears, was sweeter than any loving endearment. Because, he’d always known Loki was harsh and prickly and so fucking hard to get close to – but it had never frightened him off.

Because, when the walls came down it was worth it, as long as Loki was willing to let him in.

“Then you’ve got to stop insulting me.”

Loki straightened, his eyes brightening with a kind of vicious delight. But Tony wasn’t done.

“And you’ve got to treat me like you actually want me around. I’m not going to date someone who pushes me away.”

Loki nodded jerkily.

“And you’ve got to talk to me. Honesty is hard, I get that, but you can’t just teleport away or set a fire on another floor.”

Loki winced, all but proving he had been responsible for that one. Tony smirked faintly.

“You’re either all in this, Loki, or you’re not. I can’t just be the guy you want because someone else took him.”

“You are not,” Loki bit out. He also reached forward, grasping his waist. Tony didn’t pull away. Loki’s gaze was on his shoulder this time. “I’ve never…” he ground his teeth. “I’ve never wanted another like I want… you.”

Tony smiled, feeling so helplessly fond of his emotionally constipated idiot.

“Well, you might be a wordsmith but you’re shit at these kinds of words.”

Loki’s head jerked up, he looked completely affronted but Tony ducked in and kissed him. Loki made a small noise before kissing back. But unlike the others, this one was so damn tentative and soft. It said all the things that Loki clearly struggled to say aloud. Loki’s arms also snaked around his waist, tugging him close in an embrace that was surprisingly tender.

The kiss was slow and languid and when they broke apart, Tony ducked his head, resting his forehead on Loki’s shoulder and smiling softly.

The moment was so damn nice and Tony felt so hopeful for the future. A feeling that only increased when Loki surprised him, saying so quietly he almost couldn’t hear him, “I am… sorry, Anthony.”

He sounded so genuine, so clearly remorseful that Tony felt a rush of warmth go through him. He also wrapped his arms around Loki’s waist, holding him affectionately.

“Yeah, I know. So, just do what I said before, and things will be fine.”

Loki sighed with soft relief. Tony also felt him nod. Closing his eyes, Tony took a few seconds to breathe the moment in. He hadn’t thought it was possible, but it had really worked. Bucky’s plan had come true.

At least for him.

Some of Tony’s good humour faded and he felt a pang for Bucky. He might have got Loki, but what was happening with Steve? Was he even getting anywhere with his stubborn idiot?

“Anthony?” Loki enquired

Tony shivered. Now that he was paying attention to being called that, it sent a nice tingle down his spine. It was a wealth of difference to being harshly called Stark.

“Anthony?” He asked again.

“Sorry, just thinking about… everything.”

 “Yes,” Loki said, something distinctly tense entering his voice. “You will be telling Barnes immediately.” He tugged him closer possessively. “All things with him will cease.”

Tony’s lips twitched, amused despite himself at the response when he hadn’t even mentioned Bucky.

God, he really was jealous and interrupting us the whole time, wasn’t he?

“Excuse me, Sir,” JARVIS interjected, breaking Tony’s thoughts. “I would recommend not approaching Bucky Barnes at this moment.”

“Why?” Loki snapped, sounding instantly hostile, his hold tightening almost to discomfort. “So that you might convince your master to reconsider his options?”

“Mr Stark is capable of choosing his own spouses,” JARVIS said, distinctly dry. “As is Mr Barnes. Whom, at this moment, is having an informative discussion with Captain Rogers.”

Tony pulled back from Loki abruptly, he looked up at the ceiling with excitement.

“Really? Is he?”

“Yes, Sir,” JARVIS said, sounding pleased.

“Ha!”

Tony couldn’t contain his joy as he fistpumped the air, feeling so fucking happy for Bucky.

When he looked back at Loki, the man looked wary and even hurt and Tony immediately closed the space and touched his chest.

“What can I say, babe,” Tony said. “You and Steve are surprisingly similar in when you choose a time to lay down a confession.”

Loki blinked, then there was a slow dawning of realisation and before it could turn to something remotely embarrassed or angry about being tricked, Tony pressed in close and kissed him. There was a moment of resistance before Loki cupped the back of his head and kissed back.

And even though Tony knew Loki would be pissed and unimpressed later, Tony was sure that it could be swept under the rug fairly easily. After all, he might have started dating Bucky out of spite, but it had got them here, it had made Loki realise he was wrong and galvanised him to fix things.

It might have taken a while and hurt more than Tony would have liked, but in the end, he had Loki, Bucky had Steve and he had made a close friend out of someone unexpected.

It wasn’t exactly the stuff of fairytales, but Tony didn’t need smooth sailing to be happy. He’d just needed a chance to get underneath a prickly prince’s many walls. Now that he was there, with an apology and a promise to do better, Tony was sure things would turn out just fine.