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As long as Stark Industries continues to make weapons, Tony has zero interest in “doing his part” for the company at these military shindigs. Sure, he’s glad that his dad is at least letting him lead Stark Industries’ efforts in defensive and medical tech, but until the day the weapons department is completely shut down, Tony will not give those power hungry army generals the time of day.
So when Howard all but forces Tony into joining him for a five-day trip to Afghanistan for a weapons demonstration, Tony retaliates the best way he knows how. By being a total brat and shamelessly embarrassing his dad.
He takes his sweet time on the plane, lazing casually in his band t-shirt and jeans as they make their descent. He knows he’ll be expected to change into a more “appropriate” outfit once they land because that’s always been the protocol, and he’s looking forward to watching Howard’s head explode later when he realises that Tony has no intention of playing by the rules.
That’ll teach him to force Tony into doing anything weapons-related.
By the time the company jet lands, Howard has already changed into his perfectly pressed suit so he can greet the soldiers who have been sent to meet them.
“Hurry up and get changed, Tony. The general has sent his most elite squad to come get us,” Howard says. “The Howling Commandos are unparalleled at what they do and Steve and Bucky are the best of the best. Let’s show them some respect and not keep them waiting.”
With that, he straightens his cuffs and turns towards the stairs to disembark.
“What the hell kind of a name is Bucky…” Tony mutters as he heads towards the back of the plane to change his clothes.
Five minutes later, he’s gliding down the plane stairs like a pageant queen, never mind the fact that he’s dressed like the polar opposite. The chatter between Howard and the two beefcakes facing him abruptly stops when the blonde one spots Tony and immediately blushes a bright red.
When Howard turns to see what the problem is, he goes red too, albeit much uglier and much angrier.
“Tony, what in the world are you wearing? Do you really think this is appropriate for a trip of this nature?” Howard seethes. “We’re meeting military generals and government officials. They shouldn’t have to see half your ass hanging out of those ridiculous shorts!”
As he joins the group, Tony looks down at his clothes. His jean shorts cut off six inches above his knees, and his tank bearing his favorite band’s logo is only marginally long enough to not be considered a crop top. He looks damn good, and he knows it.
Honestly, anyone who sees him should be honored they get to lay eyes on him.
“I do in fact think these clothes are appropriate, actually. I dressed for the weather.” He pastes on a shit-eating grin and turns towards the soldiers. “Hi, I’m Tony.”
Before either of them could introduce themselves, Howard cuts in.
“Get back in there and change into a proper suit, Tony. This isn’t funny.”
“I’m afraid I can’t do that. All I’ve packed are shorts and tank tops and t-shirts. Like I said, I checked the weather reports and decided that I’d be most comfortable in these clothes.”
As Howard splutters, one of the soldiers — the blonde one who had been staring — takes Tony’s hand and shakes it.
“I’m Steve. I, uh, I think you look great. Um, you’ve got nice legs,” he says, his ears turning pink. Tony has a feeling it’s not because of the blazing sun.
Steve is adorable and it takes everything in Tony not to coo at him.
The brunette standing next to Steve gently shoves him aside and takes his place in front of Tony.
“Heya, I’m Bucky.” He boldly steps closer and places his hand on Tony’s shoulder. “And if you really do need something else to wear, I’d be happy to lend ya somethin’. I’m sure you’d look incredible in my clothes, doll.”
Bucky winks, and Tony feels a little weak in his knees.
Tony glances between the two soldiers, both of whom have not even spared Howard or anyone else a second of their attention since Tony sauntered up to them in his booty shorts and tank top.
He smiles.
Looks like this trip might not be so bad after all.