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Written for: Nature Scavenger Hunt: Vanity

Word Count - 420


The Best Idea


"Does your vanity know no bounds?" Steve asked, watching Tony check his reflection in the mirror. "You look great, Tony."

Tony wrinkled his nose. "I wasn't aiming for great."

Frowning, Steve clambered off the bed and approached, standing behind him with his large hands on Tony's hips.

"What were you aiming for then, because I think you always look great."

"I was looking," Tony replied, leaning back into Steve's embrace, "for acceptable. I know you hate the way people flirt with me at these things, so I thought if I went for less than my usual impeccable look, that less people would flirt with me."

Steve softened, leaning his chin on top of Tony's head. "Sweetheart, people don't flirt with you because of the suit you're wearing, or because your goatee is perfect. You draw people in with your beautiful smile and your sparkling eyes, and you make them want to stay with your incredible personality."

Tony felt his cheeks heat up.

"Do I like it when people flirt with you?" Steve continued. "Not really. But do I understand the compulsion to be near you? Of course I do. I can't fault anyone for that because I feel it constantly."

Turning in Steve's arms, Tony turned his face up for a kiss, which Steve had no problem bestowing upon his lips.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

Steve watched from the bar as Tony moved from group to group, charming the people effortlessly. It was always incredible to see him like this and it boggled Steve's mind that Tony managed to do it so easily.

Not many people knew that Tony was much more comfortable in the safety of the Tower, where he could lounge around in Rhodey's sweatpants and Steve's sweater, or in the workshop wearing an oil soaked tank top and very worn jeans.

Not many people knew the real Tony, because Tony didn't let many people in. Steve took heart in that, because he'd seen and loved every version of Tony.

"Hey you."

Speak of the devil.

Tony pushed himself closer, until Steve had little choice but to wrap his arms around his boyfriend.

"Hey yourself."

"I'm ready to leave," Tony admitted. "I want burgers, and I want milkshakes, and I want cuddles. Not necessarily in that order."

Steve smiled, tugging Tony slightly closer. "I'm at your disposal."

Tony grinned. "You always know just want to say to make me happy, Spangles. Dating you was the best idea."

What else could Steve do but agree?