Work Text:
I’m so sorry, Stephen texts Tony. I’m going to have to miss dinner. Dimensional rift in Tennessee.
You wouldn’t think that cancelling a date—even if it isn’t officially a date just yet—would be an effective seduction technique. But Stephen has played audience to Tony’s frustration over his partners’ inability to accept the priority he puts on Iron Man’s duties countless times. Pepper, other partners… the conflict had led to the end of many relationships.
By cancelling himself, for an exactly analogous reason, Stephen demonstrates that he has the same priorities as Tony. He will understand when Iron Man is needed. The emergency is even real: it was an invariable event in every future where Stephen remained on Earth. All he had to do was schedule a conflicting date and wait.
Don’t sweat it, I understand. Tony’s reply comes back. Text me when you’re back? I could bring takeout.
It’s likely to be late. Stephen expects he’ll return to the Sanctum after midnight.
Text anyway. My sleep schedule is already fucked, might as well put it to use.
Stephen smiles at his phone. I will. Thank you.
Besides, midnight takeout in the Sanctum is far more intimate than a restaurant dinner.