Disclaimer: I do not own this or make any money off this.

Sorry it took me 3 weeks this time, but this is one of those times where shit happen- AKA my basement flooded. But here you go. This may be my longest chapter yet.

I will note that I am playing with Tony's trust issues. I am team Iron Man, but I would not say i am Anti Team Cap. I just feel like CW did a bad job being Pro- Cap. I think that Agent of Shield did a better Job showing why the accords suck, while Steve was like "No, Bucky" and showed why they are needed. However, that does not mean I will be bashing any character. I will just note that this is Tony's POV, and you are going to see his point of view (How he sees things), while only getting glances of everyone else's. That is not to say that he won't eventually change his POV and be nice to Team Cap. He will, but it will take time.

Also a reminder that Tony is depression and have major issues.

Anyhow here you. More notes at the end.

Chapter 7:

The Blade of Mistrust

Everything was going according to plan, except the whole sleeping thing. Besides that one night with Pepper a few night back, Tony hadn't seen a bed, not that he hadn't trying to closed his eyes. Though, that was the story for another time. A concern for another time. Right now, he only allowed himself to think of the good. The positive things. He installed FRIDAY into the playhouse (Stupid Name if you ask Tony, not that he wouldn't bring it up. He was totally changing it) without issue; granted, Koenig had refused to allow FRIDAY in a few areas, like the main office. As FRIDAY was his eyes, Tony didn't like that there were spots the Agent could hide, but this was about trust. Tony needed to trust the Agent, even if the idea gave him hives. Trust built trust, but damn, it was hard when you saw snakes everywhere.

"What does this make that, J?" he asked, finishing another one of the prosthetics for the kiddos. It wasn't rock science, which was a horrible expression. For the most part, the designs had the same basic function with the same bones. Sure, it might be fun to give them all some Iron Man blasters, but that had 'bad idea' written all over them. See, Rogers! I have some common sense when needed. So instead of crime fighting arm, they were fully function 'boring' arms that look like Iron Man arms, unless the child wanted something else. Oh, how dull.

"That would make seven," JARVIS replies.

"May we recommend sleep?" FRIDAY followed up with it.

With a snort, Tony ignored her and switched to his tablet. "How is our new favorite agent doing?" Sure, the Agent didn't have FRIDAY in every area of the base, but that did not stop Koenig from chatting off FRIDAY's ears if she had ears. It was like the A.I. was the Agent's new best friend. The genius couldn't fault Koenig for that, considering he found himself doing that at time. Heck, he was going it now.

"He is preparing the holding cell now." FRIDAY answered.

The term 'Holding cell' was a bit harsh, as they wanted to save the man, but they weren't kidnapping a friendly Winter Soldier. Was there such a thing? A friendly assassin? Tony wished. As it stood, there was no telling how the assassin would react. There was no doubt in Tony's mind that someone was getting punched in the face and/or end up with some broken bones. It would probably be him. God, he did not want to get punch again by a super soldier. Even now, his skin itched thinking about. "Good, good," Tony replied with a smile. "Then, we are ready to move. Make sure that the Agent has every he needs."

"Already done, Boss." FRIDAY answered.

With that, Tony switched to a different project he was working on. After going back and forth in his head like some nervous teenage, he had started and was now finishing up the paperwork for the internship/Science camp, which was more of a headache than intended. To avoid being creepy (Something that JARVIS kept warning him about), he decided to set up a real event and hold a tiny camp, teaching science to five kids. The idea that he would be surrounded by 12 years, while just wanting to be around Peter, was not ideal, but he would do it. However, that meant he would have to be around people, which meant he had to do stuff and couldn't be weird—something Ayo kept telling him he was being. So YAY him. "Everything looks good," he said, looking over the flyer. "I think we are ready to release?"

"Would it not be wise to ran it past, Miss Potts?" JARVIS asked. "I do not believe she would be pleased that she was not informed of this."

Tony waved the AI off. "It will be fine." It was better to ask for forgiveness than permission.

"And what if Young Peter Parker does not apply?" FRIDAY asked.

"And I supposed you are going to look through all of the applications yourself, Sir?" JARVIS inquired. "Or do you intend for FRIDAY and I to do it?"

Letting out a harsh sigh, Tony glared at the ceiling. What was it with these two? They were judging and he didn't like it. As they were his AI, they should agree with him. "So, what local schools should I donate you both to? I feel like New York Public school system could use the both of you if you cannot decide."

"You would regret that sooner than we would, Sir. I do not believe you know your own Social society number," JARVIS replied, softly. "Let alone tie your shoes."

Tony really needed to know that damn number, because he was tired of people using it against him. "Just send out the announcement, and make sure to flood Midtown elementary or whatever school Peter is currently attending. I want to make sure he sees it." He ordered, before turning to another monitor.

"Very well, Sir. I will tell the officers you are a craze Time Traveler and you meant well when they come to arrest you."

"That's it. FRIDAY is my favorite."

"I will carry the badge with Honor, Boss."

He may not be sleeping, but at least, he had his A.I.s. He loved the both of them. "Don't worry. You can get back into my good grace, J."

It should go without saying that Tony Stark did not know how to rest. And like always, his mind was going a million miles per hour as he started the designs for another Iron Man suit, this one closer to the Mark 46. He still had a way to go until he would create his nano suit, which was too long for Tony. He didn't know how he existed without that beautiful thing, but it was driving him insane. At the same time, he was also doing a deep dive into that famous Siberian Hydra facility. It was possible that Barnes was on ice somewhere else, but from the intel he had, Barnes was there.

Tony just needed a plan to get in and out with a man, who may or may not be on ice, and while doing this, taking heavy fire. Hydra, trying to keep their weapon, would not be holding back. However, that brought up another issue. It would be foolish to go in as Iron Man, though at the same time be stupid to go in without it. The Iron Man suit could take out an army, which was what he needed. Hydra was a large force waiting to take over the world, but he didn't—couldn't show his hand just yet. This means, whether he liked it or not, he had to go in without it. This meant that he would have to prepare for hand to hand combat, which was not his strong suit. That was not to say that he was chop live, but either way, he would not be going in alone or empty handed.

*O*O*

"I may be a Dora Milaje," Ayo said, as if that was enough explanation, "but I doubt our ability to take a Hydra base with the two of us, especially without your Iron Man suit." To say she was not happy with the plan was an understatement, but she understood. No one must know Iron Man was involved in this, not until Barnes was safe and they knew who all the players were. Plus, he did not want Hydra to raid his house so soon.

After spending another all nighter in the lab with very little sleep, Tony was able to add a few more items to his non-Iron Man weaponry: Metal power gauntlets, Jet boots, and Hud Glasses that took up a good bit of the face. The black metal gauntlets were useful in a few ways: one, increased his strength. He wouldn't be super Soldier strong, but he would give him a good right hook. Two, it could create a small force field, which would be very helpful with the bullets he was sure he would be taking. Lastly, they had Repulsors, though Tony wasn't going to use them unless he had to. The black boots—slenderer than his Iron Man boots—could not provide a stable flight, but he could hover and get some air with them. "And who do you have in mind?" he hummed.

Ayo gave him a look. "Colonel Rhodes. I say we fully read him in."

This was an argument that they had a few times, and each time, he gave into her, but yet, Tony couldn't bring in Jim. He knew why. It was the same nightmare that haunted him, haunted every night since he time-traveled. Rhodey was a soldier; Tony knew this, but he kept seeing that famous fall in his head. He could not bear to watch that again, like everything else in his life. "Fine," he answered, the words feeling like acid on his tongue. "JARVIS, can you call Jim and have him come right away?" If he didn't do this now, he would not do it.

"On it, Sir." Came the A.I. replied.

Ayo nodded as she glanced over the tablet in her hand. On it, Tony had mapped the base out as best as he could remember—not that he could forget. God, he had a lot of nightmares. "Granted, Rhodes would not be able to use his suit as well."

"Don't worry. I got him." Tony replied. Jim, at least, had combat training and he could handle himself in a fight. Nevertheless, he would be getting the same tech that Tony was giving himself.

"Will you?" she asked, her eyebrow rose. "You seemed extremely protective of James."

When did he become James? That was an understatement, but now was not the time to allow himself to ponder that. "Yes, we're protective of each other," Tony smiled. "Besides, he can take care of himself. I need to remember that."

Putting down the tablet, Ayo got to her feet. "We need additional reinforcements. There is no telling what we will find there, considering your intel is dated. What if this Barnes is awake? We will have an irritated Super Soldier on our hands, who no one who can best him in hand to hand combat."

Tony had thought about that, but he doubted the man was awake. The Winter Soldier, who was just as old as Rogers, was only 'awakened' for special, specific targets. He knew Barnes would come out to play for Fury and Rogers, but he had a few more months before the supposed fall of SHIELD. "Who do you have in mind?"

"Have you forgotten, Stark, that you are not alone? Or do you just like thinking you are?" Ayo asked. "King T'Chaka has given you his support. I have already reached out as I knew you would not. If you approve, the reinforcements will meet us there. That is if you can get your head out of your ass."

Did she really think that of him? "Sounds like a plan. I like that plan," Tony spoke, nodding. "See, not in my ass."

"I will reach out at once."

*O*O*

Tony had finished telling Rhodey everything, well not everything. Like with T'Chaka, there were a few things that he kept to himself: he didn't tell Jim about his legs (something that Tony would do anything to prevent), he didn't tell him about his parents' murder, and he didn't tell Jim about the fight with Barnes and Rogers. He didn't tell Jim how the three of them almost killed each other. He wanted to tell his best friend everything, to key him in on everything. God, he wanted someone he could talk to about everything, but he couldn't see how that would do anything good. They had a goal and they need to focus on that. He kept it mostly on Thanos and the fact that once Strange got his powers he was going to deck the wizard.

That was the only part that Rhodes smiled on, while his mind went into a total tailspin. This was where Tony found himself as he stared at his best friend, worried that he may have finally broken him. "You okay, Buddy?" Rhodey made some weird sound that couldn't really be described. It was like he had lost all words to speak, as mice like sounds came from his mouth. "I think I broke him," he spoke to no one really.

Rhodes's eyes were drilling into Tony as if he had two head or was a unicorn. "W-What? How is that possible? Did you drink too much? Did you hit you on the head? When is the last time you slept? God, what did you take?" Tony could see the gears move behind Jim's eyes, his mind going over everything that Tony had said for the second time. "Time travel? I…I guess that's possible. Thor's an alien. Loki's an Alien." He mumbled, cursing under his breath. "So why not more aliens? Battle of New York? And what kind of a name is Thanos? Infinity stones? Nazis are back? What the fuck?!"

Tony couldn't help but chuckle at Rhodey as he went through everything with a fine-tooth comb. He found it adorable, even if now was not the appropriate time. "How long do I wait before I have to reset him?" he asked, looking up.

"I would give him a few minutes, Sir," JARVIS answered. "It took you awhile if I recall."

Wasn't that the truth? Tony could barely recall anything from when he first woke up in this time. He remembered wanting to die and hitting Pepper, something he would never forget even if she did. There was no forgetting the panic and shame that rose up in him, making him forget who he was. "Ain't that the truth." Tony replied, just watching his best friend. Rhodey's ever changing expressions were killing him.

"A mass murdering killer robot. An Avenger Civil war? A red witch who's freaky? Who may or not be a spell casting witch? A metal man who can lift Thor Hammer?" Rhodey looked like he was lost, his eyes large. Maybe, Tony told him too much? "An Alien planet death match?" His face was his hand, rubbering his temples. "There are freaken wizards? Like Harry Potter is real? And what kind of name is Strange?"

"Strange, right?" Tony clapped, though it went unnoticed by his best friend. "Geez, what is this?" What was good about having a last name of Strange if no one was paying attention to Tony and his jests. "Granted, I don't think their magic works like Harry Potter, and I'm pretty sure Strange will curse us if we call him Harry Potter, but I'm game if you are."

"Stupid Magic." At this point, Rhodey looked like he had a massive headache. "And everyone turned to dust?" His eyes softened by 10 levels and tears formed in his eyes. "I don't know who this Peter kid is, but I'm truly sorry, Tones." He inched forward, placing a hand on Tony's knee. "I am so sorry."

"He's alive, right now. That's all I can think about right now." Having cried until he could not cry anymore, Tony refused to cry again, not now. Peter was not dead. He may have a broken arm—that Strange had better nailed or else—but he was alive. He was safe and that was all that mattered. "So, you aren't going to call me crazy?" He asked, letting out the deep breath he was holding.

Rhodey let go of Tony's knee. "I think we've seen enough to know anything is possible. A freak portal opened in New York. So Yes. I do believe time travel exist, even if it breaks my brain."

This was nothing like how it felt when he told T'Chaka. This was so much more, and Tony felt like an idiot for putting it off. "Yay."

"But what does this all mean?" Rhodey asked, his tone changing. A heavy look replaced the confused look he spotted a second ago. His eyes scanned over Tony, like he was looking at an expensive art piece. It was like he was seeing him in a whole new light. "I don't know how this time traveling things works, but how is this possible?" He paused for a second as his next words struggled to come out. "Y-You are Tony, right? You just take over in your old life?"

Tony didn't know how to answer that, because he didn't know. There wasn't like there was another younger Tony hanging around. That was a question that he would need to ask the Doctor once he finished Hogwarts (or the America version: Ilvermorny). Granted, he could probably hunt down the Ancient One, the Dumbledore of the Weird Wizards. "I assume someone just hit rewind on time. I don't know. I am not a wizard."

Jim's face crunched up as a thought passed by his head. "You're different"

Tony was starting to hate that word. "Yes, I am. You can't go through what I have and not change," he replied, his voice soft. It was barely above a whisper.

"This…" Jim started, but drifting off a second later. There was a deep thought just behind the eyes, his words heavy in his throat. "Is…is this why you been distant lately? Why things have been off with you and Pepper? You're a different man."

There was no easy answer, especially when he already felt like a fraud. He was not the Tony that they knew. He was damaged more than anyone of them realized, including himself. "Yes," he said, shortly, not trusting himself to say anything else. It was tough to get a read on Jim, who was doing his damndest to mask his emotions. Boy, did that sting. "And us?"

Rhodey didn't answer at first, staring at the heartbreaking face Tony was sporting. "There're somethings that I need to work out in my head, but you never have to worry about me, Tony. I am here for you."

There was something in Rhodey's voice that worried him, but he pushed that aside. Tony had his best friend, and that was all he needed. "I get it." There was a sadness in his voice that surprised even him.

Jim's expression changed at hearing it. "I just have to get use to this new Tony, but I have your back, man. I'll fight a hord of wild beasts for you. You just have to let me in. That is all I need."

Tony, stuffing everything down his throat, gave him a smile as he got to his feet. "And what do you call this? I feel like I thoroughly let you in, and now I can't walk straight." Fake it to you make it. Feeling his happiness spreading from his smile, he laid it all on, as it brought out his playfulness.

His face crunching up, Rhodey turned, as he tried to shake that image out of his head. "Uncool, Dude. Ew! Why do you have to go there?"

"Geez, why don't you love me?" Tony pouted, giving his best friend the sadness face he could muster.

Rhodey's eye twitch. "I take it all back. You're the exact same man." Refusing to be stared down, he made direct eye contact with Tony. He could feel his eye twitch as laugher bubbled its way up. "And I'm now mentally scarred."

No, no, don't go there. The genius tried to tell himself, but there was no stopping the memories pushing through like an unyielding river. When was he going to get over this crap? He was tired of 'whatever' this crap was. "That's not the worst thing you have ever heard me say… or do."

"All kidding side, what about Pepper?"

"What about her?" Tony's voice dripped.

Jim hesitated for a second. "Are you going to tell her any of this? Or you just going to keep her at arm's length like you are doing now? I love you man, but Pepper deserves more. It's never going to last if you keep doing this."

Tony internally groaned, not wanting or caring to talk about this. Did it make him the bad guy? Okay, that wasn't completely true. He did care. There were just more important things held his thoughts, and there no denying that the relationship felt wrong somewhat. "Is it wrong to say I'm not concerned about my relationship? How can I be? Thanos is coming. He's coming and he is going to rip the universe apart." He paused, letting out a deep sigh. His heart pounded against his ribs as Peter's last words flashed before his eyes. He would never forget, never not see Peter pleading not to leave. "Y-you don't know yet…Can't know… but…" Tony could not find his words with everything dying on this tongue in a heap of panic. His throat felt like a desert.

"I don't want to go. I don't want to go. Mr. Stark, please."

"God Damn it." Tony cursed through his teeth, his chest on fire. He thought he had it together. He thought he had it all under control, but it was like someone had broken Hoover Dame. It came out like a rushing river, destroying everything in its path. He was going to be sick, especially with the Ancient One's words replaying in his head. Time had a habit of currenting itself. "I can't. I c-can't," he uttered. He could not watch Peter die. Not again.

"Please. I don't want to go. I don't want to go. I'm sorry."

Tony's heart was breaking all over again. It was being ripped apart. "I can't." His breaths became labored, feeling lightheaded and faint. He couldn't watch as everyone disintegrated around him. It didn't matter how well he knew them or not. Quill may have been an ass and lost control (not that Tony could blame him after learning the fate of his girlfriend), but he didn't want to see that man die. The same could be the said of the rest his crew. That could be said about Strange as well, even Tony hated him. "Peter… I can't."

"Hey, Hey." Rhodey voiced, jumping to his feet. Concern drifted into his eyes, seeing the panic growing in his best friend. "I got you, Tones." He gently pulled Tony into his arms, hiding the genius from the world. "That isn't going to happen. If I have to rip Thanos apart with my bare hands, I will." Taking a deep breath as he rocketed the genius softly. "We're going to stop him, and Peter will be safe. I promised. I don't know the kid yet, but I'll be damn if anything happened to him."

Tony, his eyes tightly closed, willed himself to take a few deep breaths. Forcing his thoughts away from Peter's last sorrowful cry, he forced himself to think positively. If he spoke it aloud, he did not know, but he repeated it to himself: they weren't going to lose not with his foresight. Like Rogers said, if they did it together, they would not lose. When the Avengers were a team, there was nothing that could defeat them. It was only when they split, they failed.

"That's right, Tones. Together we won't fail." Rhodey mouthed into Tony's hairline.

It had taken Rhodey a few excruciatingly long minutes to calm the blubbering man. It was surreal to how time stopped for the panicking genius. It was like Tony had got back in time to Peter dying in his arm. All that fear and failure came rushing up. "I'm good." He whimpered; his voice soft. "You can let me go now." With a bite of reluctance, Rhodey gently and slowly redrew his hands from the still genius. "Now, let's get down to business," Tony said, putting on the smile.

Rhodey watched Tony step to his workstation and go through the new tech he had created. It was like nothing happened. "Are we going to talk about it?"

Tony stilled, refusing to look back. "We just did. Besides, I'm a big boy and big boys don't cry." He articulated, putting on a huge smile. "And like you said, I have nothing to worry about. Peter is alive and all is good. Both FRIDAY and JARVIS can attest to that." Tony rotated, waving a wretch in his hand.

Jim's eyes narrowed as he stared down his best friend with a hot, intense stare. He held that glare for a second before letting it fall and replacing it with a weak smile. "I see why Pepper is frustrated."

"So, I got a few items for you. We can't the save the damsel in our suits, but we're not going in empty handed," he said, before turning away from Rhodey. "Got some boots and other tech. Not the same awesome color that you used to me wearing, but black looks awesome on everyone."

"Tony."

Said man hated the tone Rhodey used when he was disappointed in him. It made Tony feel like a child. "What? What do you want from me? I don't have time for this touchy-feely game that you want from me. I don't have time to cry and let it all go, because I have a damn universe to save. I can't do it weeping. This isn't be showboating. Thanos won in the future. He fucken won! And we lost horribly. I had to watch as everyone crumbled. Fucken Crumble! I watched us lose, only to wake up here to do it all over again." He was yelling now, anger hiding his recent panic. "You don't have to worry that you're fucken destined to relive it all like some curse, because damn Dumbledore said time could be immutable, so there's a chance that I have to relive everything!" Tony was breathing through his nose.

If Rhodey said anything, Tony did not know. He was too focused on his rant to care. "I refused to relive that crap." Now, the genius didn't say what he would do if he had to, but it was clear that he would not survive that heartbreak. His shattered heart would kill him alone. "The last 4 years were hell! They were a nightmare that I cannot free myself of even if I bleached my brain. Even now, I keep seeing and hearing Peter's death in my head. Should I see someone? Probably. Okay, yes, but tell me, Rhodey. Who the hell should I talk to? Who the hell should I bare my soul to? Who could possibility understand what I'm going through? God, I love Pepper, but I can't talk to her about this. She can barely handle me, and you think she can handle this?!" He took a few deep breaths, turning away. He felt ashamed, thinking that about Pepper. "You want to know what will help me?" he asked, his voice suddenly dropping a few levels. "Fixing the future. I need that. So, lets focus on that, and drop this crap. That is what I need. Please."

Jim looked shocked for a moment as he smoothed out his expression. "Okay. So, what's the plan?"

Exhaling heavily, Tony smiled. "Okay here's the plan."

*O*O*

After nailing down the plan, Rhodey forced Tony out of the laps for food. The genius would've waved the man off, but when his stomach growled like a hungry lion, there was no fighting the Colonel, and Tony had no choice but to follow. It was probably for the best as he couldn't recall the last time he ate. In fact, he was feeling a little lightheaded and weak, and getting some food in his stomach would do some good. It would also help his mood as well, as it hard to think about anything else. He felt raw after his chat with Rhodey, feeling ashamed for the yelling at his friend.

However, none of 'feelings' lasted for long, hearing two females chatting up in the kitchen like a pair of old friends. Tony's eye twitched, recognizing the second voice. And when he rounded the corner, he spotted Natasha Fucken Romanoff sitting at the counter with Pepper drinking tea. If Pepper wasn't smiling, Tony would've done something he wouldn't have been proud of. Again, there was that overreaction popping through again. He knew it wasn't fair to her, but god, it was so hard. He just saw Natasha picking Rogers's side while telling him to watch his back. Control yourself! He yelled at himself.

It was Natasha who noticed him, though it was Pepper who spoke first. She was smiling, but there was something lingering in her stare. "Oh, I see you came up for air. Trying to make me forget you exist?" Pepper spoke, fondly. "Jim feeding you?"

Feeling his friend tense at his side, Jim gave Tony a confused, concerned look before answering, "If I don't, you will find him belly up in the tank."

When Tony told Rhodey about the Avenger Civil War, he had been vague. He told him that it didn't matter who was on who's side, because the whole thing was shit. For reasons, he didn't want Jim to know what exactly happened and how he lost his legs. He didn't want his friend to be burdened with the facts. "What are you doing here? Planting more bugs for the Pirate?" he asked, turning his attention on Natasha. Why the hell was he still referring to her as Natasha?

"Oh, Stark, you don't trust me? I'm hurt," Natasha replied, taking a slip from the coffee cup in her hand. "I just wanted to check on you. You didn't seem well the last time I've seen you and Fury still hadn't heard from you."

Where is Ayo when I need her? She would throw Natasha out on her ass. Tony rolled his eyes, putting on a smile. Masks were his specialty, and he would be damned if he couldn't fool the best of them. "Oh, I didn't know you cared, and I like making Fury wait."

"Tony," Pepper uttered, shock in her voice.

"Why would I not care? We're Avengers after all." Natasha taking another slip. "I just wanted to stop by and say hello. Pepper and I were having a good conversion."

At this very moment, did the Avengers even existed? Rogers, Barton, and Romanoff were a part of the Nazi SHIELD, while Thor was off world. Tony had no idea of where Bruce was, but the man had probably told present day Tony where he was heading before future Tony took over the timeline. So technically, Tony should know, but hell, that was almost 5 years ago. He didn't even remember the last time he ate. "Right. Anyhow, it was nice seeing you. There's the door," he said, waving to the door. "Don't let it hit you on the way out. Or do. Whatever."

"Tony!" Pepper chastised.

Tony's eye twitched again. Nice play, he thought, staring at the former Russian spy. "Since when did the two of you becomes friends?" he asked, ignoring Rhodey's eyes drilling into the side of his head.

"Natasha and I have been keeping in touch since she worked—" "Spied," Tony interjected. "-At the company. We've become good friends," Pepper answered, getting to her feet. She nailed Tony with a warning stare before crossing to the teapot on the stove. "We have been having lunch every few weeks."

Where had he been that he missed this shit? In either life, he didn't remember this. "Why?" he found himself asking.

"What? You don't trust me, Stark?" Natasha smiled, bring the cup to her mouth. Though the bottom half of her face was hidden, she was smiling.

"I don't trust you as far as I can throw you without my suit," Tony replied, his irritation breaking through. "Granted, if I had my suit on, I wouldn't have to see you after I threw you."

For the third time, Pepper yelled, "Tony." The expression on her face was a mixture of mortification and a warning. It was like she was a mother scolding a child who threw a water balloon at the pope. "What has gotten into you?"

Even Rhodey looked shocked by it all, though there was a bit of understanding behind this eyes. "Tony, lets getting something to eat, and leave the ladies to it."

Natasha finally set her cup down on the table and leaned back in the chair. "May, I have a moment with Tony? I think we just need to clear the air."

Tony snorted as he folded his arms across his chest. His stomach growled softly. "Is that what you call it?"

Both Pepper and Jim share a look, having a silence conversion. "Okay…I have a meeting to go to," she said slowly, stepping to Tony. When she reached him, she waited a few seconds as if she expected him to give her a kiss before placing a kiss on his cheek. "Behave," she whispered in his ear. After stepping away, Pepper turned to Jim. "Care to walk me out?"

Rhodey looked between the two. "FRIDAY and JARVIS will keep an eye on your two. I'll be back," he said, hesitantly following Pepper out.

Both Natasha and Tony waited until Pepper and Rhodey were gone before either one of them spoke. "So, who is FRIDAY?" Natasha asked, speaking first.

Tony didn't answer right away, taking a long look around. He knew nothing was going to jump out of him and scream 'look here', but he couldn't stop himself. "Plant any bugs? I will find them regardless."

"Not going to tell me? Geez, I feel unloved," Natasha replies, straightening herself out.

He paused, giving the spy a hard, calculating look. He hadn't planned on keeping FRIDAY hidden, but he didn't like that Natasha now knew about the A.I. "She's my girl Friday, right, Baby Girl?"

"Right, Boss." Came the Irish voice. "I assist the Boss with whatever he may need or not know he needs."

"What happen to JARVIS?" Natasha asked, her lip twisting up.

"Nothing, Miss Romanoff. I am where I belong at Mr. Stark's side." JARVIS answered.

Tony smile. God, he loved these two A.I.s. Did that make him insane? "If that's all, the door is over there?"

Natasha looked like she was chewing over what she just learned. "What's FRIDAY's purpose?"

His stomach still growling, Tony crossed to the refrigerator and opened the door. He paused for a second, pondering what he wanted. "Nunya bidness," he stated, as he pulled out the deli meet and cheese to make a sandwich.

Rotating in her chair to look at Tony, Natasha questioned with an eyebrow rose, "What has your panties in a twist?"

Tony could feel her eyes drilling into his back. It was unnerving, but at least, he was not level 10 yet. He had been able to control himself so far. "I'm confused. When did we become friends?" he asked, retrieving two pieces of bread from the cabinet. It wouldn't be the fanciest sandwich that he ever had, but it would do the trick.

"You act like I wronged you, Stark. What don't you tell me what that is? And while you're at it, tell me what you're up to," she demanded, as she watched him reached into the refrigerator for the mayo.

The time travel was what wrong with him. It was the reason why he was a hot mess. While he knew this Natasha hadn't betrayed him, he couldn't get it out of his head. He would have to 'get over' it he knew as they had to be a team—a team that was responsible for their actions. That aside for another day, they needed to be a team. They needed to stand together, even if Tony couldn't trust the lot of them. Besides, it was possible that he could trust them in the future. Way way in the future. He just needed time and maybe a good therapist, though he wasn't being an ass when he asked Rhodey who he could possibly talk to. "Do you forget what you do for a living?" he asked.

"That hasn't changed recently. You've already known what I am and what did. You've never acted so…" She drifted off, searching for the right words. "…aggrieved and hostile. What did I do to you? Hurt your feelings? Don't give you enough attention? I'm a big girl. You can tell me."

You pretended to be my friend, on my side, then you betrayed me the second Rogers needed you. You switch sides to serve your own self-interest. You don't look out for anyone but yourself, He thought, bitterly. He leaned forward against the counter—his sandwich was all but completed-, as he forced himself to take a deep breath. Then there's the fact that Barnes killed my parents. He wanted to ask her if she knew. If she kept it quiet…because Rogers had asked her to. He wanted to know if she kept her mouth because she wanted his money. That was what it felt like. Felt like everyone wanted his money, though he was partly to blame. He gave it out like candy. It was how he made friends. It was what his father taught him. "Tell me, Romanoff. Would it matter? Would you be here if my anger wasn't a threat to SHIELD pocketbook?" He could not ask her about Barnes, even if it burned at him, as she hadn't had to make that choice yet. No one knew Barnes was alive. It pissed him off.

Natasha didn't answer at first, just eyeing the man as he 'closed' his sandwich, putting on the top piece of bread. "At first, Stark, you were my assignment. You can't fault me for that." Her voice was tight. "I'm a SHIELD agent, and you declared yourself a superhero. I was assigned because Director Fury didn't know if you were a risk or asset. You are a genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist. Your words not mine." She paused, waiting for him to move or say sometime. When he did not, she continued, "However, after New York, I saw you as more than that. I supposed you can say that I started to see you. I understand you don't trust me. I wouldn't trust me either. I don't deserve trust. I know that, but this is something else, Stark. This feels like I did something personal to you. Maybe, I upsold what I'm to you, but you must know I like you more than most SHIELD Agents." She, still sitting, twisted away from him toward the window. Her voice, suddenly softer, was almost too soft to hear.

"I'm cold, hard, because that's how I learned to survive. Emotions get you killed, and the life I had before I defected wasn't pretty. You, born a Stark, would probably shit your pants if you knew. The things I have done. My hands are dirty. They're filthy. I know this." She paused for a second as if she was going over everything she had done in her head. "My past had taught me a few things: one, having friends make you weak. I could not be weak. I cannot be weak. So, I don't let people in. It took Clint years to get in, and that's with Clint trying nonstop. There's no doubt that he saved me from me." She slowly turned back to Tony, her eyes once more on his back. "So, I need you to know whatever I did to piss you off, it wasn't personal. Regardless, I am sorry, Tony."

Tony took a bit of his sandwich, chewing very slowly. She had the point, and heck (if he was honest), he was expecting too much from this woman. In his timeline, they had fought side by side for years building a trust, which had not happened yet. Was it trust? Or was it just an understanding between two soldiers in arms. Regardless, she was placed between a rock and a hard place, friend against friend. Yea, but she still didn't tell you about your parents. He thought bitterly. Maybe, she thought Rogers was going to tell you? Maybe, she was trying to protect you? While taking your money? His thoughts were all over the place.

"I bare my soul to you, and nothing?" Natasha's eyes were large, almost like she was hurt. "You've never trusted me before, Stark; yet, you take insult to it now. I find it curious."

Taking a deep breath, Tony turned around, his sandwich still in his hand. "Do you want me to trust you, Romanoff?"

Natasha leaned back in her chair. There was something just behind her eyes. "I don't need your trust."

"That's not want I asked. Do you want it?"

Silence bloomed between them. Minutes went by as the two stared at the other. "Yes," she uttered, her voice cracking. It came out like someone was pulling her teeth.

Natasha and he had been friend, closer than he thought they could have been. "You had it."

Romanoff's mask fell. "Had?" Confusion was present before it disappeared behind the mask. "When? How?"

Tony took another bite. Why did this sandwich taste so good? Was it simply because he was staving? It wasn't like he was the best sandwich maker in the world; granted, it wasn't hard. Meat, cheese and bread. Was he really thinking about the art of Sandwich making now?

"You aren't going to tell me?"

"No." He replied, sternly.

Natasha narrowed her eyes at him. "Why not?"

He wanted to tell her because he wanted to protect himself from her. He wanted to tell her that she scared him. Even now, he found himself struggling to be mad at her. She may not have betrayed him like the Natasha of his time, but she was. They had the same backstory. The Same life. Who say she wouldn't do it again? "I think we're done here," he replied, trying to get his voice neutral.

"I said I wasn't leaving until I know what you are up to."

Tony let out another sigh as he took another bite. "Who said I am up to something?"

Natasha, her expression morphing, finally got to her feet and took a step toward him. "Really? Is that why you showed up at SHIELD with an unknown bodyguard and a horrible lie. You're a bad liar, do you know that? Probably not, not with how you're pushing Pepper away." She paused, spotting the crack in his shield. She, however, did not push on it. "Is that why you are upgrading your quinjet? You aren't doing a very job at hiding it."

That got to Tony more than he would like to admit. If Natasha knew, what did that mean about the rest of SHIELD? Hydra couldn't know about this! Barnes and the future depended on this. "I have shit to do. This conversion is over." There were a few bites left of the sandwich, but he set it down on the plate and made his way toward the door. He knew he played right into her hands. "JARVIS will direct you out."

"You think this helps your case. Storming out when you don't like my question?"

"You came here uninvited. Don't expect me to ask you to stay."

Natasha forced herself to remain relax. "Stark."

"Whatever I am up to is my business, not yours. Go back to Fury. Tell him whatever you want but leave me alone." With that, he crossed to the elevator. He just wanted to hide in his labs until she was gone. He couldn't look at her anymore, which could say more to do with him than her.

*O*O*

Minutes away from takeoff, Tony was struggling to get his head on straight, still feeling emotional drained from earlier. His restless mind kept jumping between Peter, Pepper and Natasha and back again. Peter was always at the front of his mind, like a consistent reminder that wouldn't go away. He could not fail that kid again. Then having both Rhodey and Natasha bring up Pepper to him, his heart skipped a beat whenever he thought of the woman. How unfair was he being to the woman he supposedly loved? Pepper deserved more. Then, there was Natasha, a woman Tony had no idea of what to do with. Did he push her away? Keep her close? Forgive her? To whatever god was up there, he could use the help right now. He need- Get your head in the game! He yelled at himself, as he kicked himself into gear.

Ayo was finishing up the preflight workup, while Tony and Rhodey brought up the equipment. Both Jim and Tony were already wearing the metal hover boots, as they loaded the jet with what they could need. They were working as a solid 3-man team, and Tony couldn't help by smile, even with his mind in a twist. He was flashing back to the good old days of the Avengers before it spoiled. "Everything looks good," Rhodey said, as he turned to the rest of the gear that Tony had created. His eyes study every inch of them, placing it all to memory.

"I think we're ready to take off," Tony said, takin stock of everything. Besides the gear he created, he also brought additional guns and explosives. "Is our backup ready?"

Ayo glanced back. "Yes, they will meet us a few miles off from the base. Just outside the radar."

"Good, we will—" Tony started before interrupted by a certain red hair standing just outside the jet. "So where are you going? And can I join?" Natasha asked. There was a smugness on her face, catching them with their hands in cookie jar.

How the hell was she still here? How did neither one of Tony A.I.s not clock her? "How are you still here?" Tony asked, trying to keep his emotions in check.

"Pepper permitted me to stay," Natasha answered with a shrug.

Ayo, anger pulsing, got to her feet and walked pass Tony with a power stride. She stood tall, ready to kill. "You forced your way in earlier to talk to Stark. You will not do it now. You have worn out your welcome."

Tony still couldn't get a read on Ayo. "Well, you can leave now." He waved at Natasha.

"If I didn't know any better, Stark, I would think you were trying to get rid of me. I feel sad," She said, frowning. Her eyes drifted past him, toward the gear. There would be no explaining this away. "What don't you want me to know?"

Tony should've known better from their earlier conversion that the Red head was not leaving. "Oh, you got me. I'm throwing Fury a 'Hurray you're master spy' party. I hope you'll be able to keep this quiet. Got to make sure it remains a surprise."

Natasha just blinked at him, letting this drift pass her. "You have two options, Stark. You can bring me with you, or I'm running to SHIELD, telling everyone that I can find that you're making an armed strike against an unknown target. What you say?"

If Tony killed Natasha right now, would anyone notice besides the Nazi SHIELD? It wasn't like she was vital to the Avengers. Sure, she was a master spy, tearing through any defenses like it was paper, but Tony was sure he could find someone to replace her. Ayo seemed up to the task. If not her, there was probably some other Wakandan he could call.

"I don't like your super friends anymore," Rhodey announced. "I say you need new ones. What about Dumbledore?"

"I wouldn't call Romanoff super," Tony shoot back, his eyes glued to the woman. Okay, he couldn't kill her, even if Natasha pushed all his buttons. He had to give it to her; she was doing her job. Anyone who was anyone would tell you that he had been acting weird. It was like he was a different person, though he was. He was not the person they knew a few short weeks ago. If that SHIELD hack wasn't valuable, he would have regretted it walking into SHIELD and accidently rising red flags.

Natasha's top lip twitched. "I would be careful, Stark. Super or not, I can still take you out like a fly." It wasn't a threat. She was simply a fact. "You want to try a few rounds, now?"

"You dare to threaten Stark in my present?" Ayo asked, her voice cold. Her accent started to break through, but she still sounded American. "Why don't I show you my skills?"

"You're going to let her threaten me, Stark?" Natasha looked pass Ayo and stared at Tony.

Rhodey's eyes bounced between Natasha and Ayo. "Is it bad that I want to see who would win? My money is on Ayo."

Tony let out a chuckle. "Oh, Honey Bear. Your crush is showing."

Jim shook his head, while rolling eyes. "How are you my best friend? I need new best friend."

"I feel unloved," Tony said, playing hurt. He stared at Romanoff, eyeing every muscle in her face. Having Natasha on his side would be beneficial. She, for sure, was not Hydra and would never be Hydra; that information was valuable stuff right now. With so many sleeper agents in SHIELD, it was near impossible to tell who was good and who was an evil Nazi, besides who was or was not shooting at you. So, while Tony did not trust this woman, he needed her. He needed her on his team. He didn't have to trust her for that, well not personally at least; he would never trust her personally. He would never allow her to get close. "Fine, you can come." He announced; his voice cold.

"What?" Ayo and Rhodey exclaimed at the same time.

Natasha's victory lit a smile under her bored expression. "Wise choice."

Tony glanced at Ayo and Jim, sending them each a silent message through his eyes. He would never give her the full access, only providing her with limited info at best. It would do everyone good if they kept her close. She had already made it clear that she wasn't backing down. If he didn't let her in (or let her think she was in), she would rip his plan apart and he couldn't have that. "However, you will do exactly what I say. If not, Ayo can do whatever she's thinking about at this very second to you. I doubt it's kitten and rainbows." He paused for a second, attempting to read the expression on Natasha's face.

Ayo's lip curled. "Be my pleasure, Stark."

That Wakandan was a gift from god and no one could convince Tony otherwise. "And there'll be no telling Fury anything. I trust him less than you." He added. He had given Koenig the okay to tell Fury if needed, but Tony would give none of that to Natasha, who would take it and run with it.

"Not planning in taking over the world, Stark?" Natasha asked as she stepped above the jet.

"What? No. Too much work," Tony chirped back. "Now, I cannot contest to JARVIS or FRIDAY doing that, but you know."

"Then very well, you have my word that I will not tell, Fury."

"Too bad your word mean shit to me, hm?" The genus snapped softly. He gave her the coldest look he could muster. "I will tell you this. You'll live it to regret it if you so much breathe a single word." His tones were ice cold, and there was no denying he meant it.

If Natasha was shaken, she did not show it. "I still don't know what I did to piss you off, Stark, but you have my word."

Was it bad that Tony wanted to believe her? To trust her? God, he wished he had the old – Future?- team back. He wished he could go back to those famous Avenger movies night and just enjoy them. He wished he could trust her again, just so he could have those nights back. He chastised himself a second later. If allowed himself to go down that hole, he wouldn't be able to dig himself out of it. "Let's get this bird in the air. We're on a timeline."

Ayo didn't reply right away, sending a warning glare at Natasha. It was a hard glare and there was no mistaking the deadly warning behind it. "Very well. We are all ready?" With everyone answering yet, they took off.

*O*O*

Awkward. There was no other way to explain this. It was just awkward.

The appearance of Natasha had killed the mood, sending the jet into silence. No one had spoken since they took off, and the tension only grew heavier with each passing second. Where was a knife when you needed it? Natasha, with those eyes of her, sat across from Tony, eyeing at everything. If she was uncomfortable by the glares returned, it didn't reflect on her face. In fact, it looked like she was in her element with a smirk firmly on her face. It was unnerving. Rhodey, on the other hand, was visibly annoyed and he kept trying to steal glances from Tony, who was faced down in his tablet. Ayo had kept her focus forward, softly chatting away with JARVIS and the Wakanda Jet. A a part of Tony wanted to take over flying as this was his jet and JARVIS was his co-pilot, but that woman would not let him.

At the 4-hour mark, JARVIS put them in radio silence, only allowing communication with the Wakandan jet. Natasha kept attempted to get Tony's attention, though he willfully ignored her. It was at the 5-hour mark that Natasha opened her mouth, refusing to be ignore anymore. "So is anyone going to tell me where we're heading? I know we aren't in Kansas anymore." She could see the snowy mountains peaks in the distance.

"So, I guess she doesn't know everything?" Jim replied with a snort. Without looking up, he rolled his eyes. "I feel like they covered that in school safety. Never get on a plane to places unknown. You never know where you'll be at the end of the day. In a ditch somewhere, probably. Or eaten by hungry sharks, which I hear is not fun."

Ayo let out a loud chuckle. "There have not been wiser words said," she said, her heavy accent back. Rhodey, who had heard the accent before, just smiled.

Natasha's eyebrow rose, though she did not look overly surprised. "You've been keeping a lot of things from me, Stark. What else am I missing?" She glanced forward Tony who kept his eyes down.

With his mind going nonstop, Tony wasn't sure what he was looking as it was simply words on a tablet to him anymore. Maybe, it was because he was coming face to face with his parents' killer—not that he faulted the man anymore. Maybe, it was the fact that he was going into battle without his Iron Man suit. Rhodey and he did have their suits on standby, but that was for the worst-case scenario. They did not want the worst-case scenario. Maybe, it was because he was going into battle with Natasha. "We're about to raid a Hydra Base," he said, glancing up just enough to meet her eyes.

Confused bloomed on her face for a second before disappearing. "Really? Hydra. I think Fury would know if Hydra existed."

"Not if it grew as a weed within SHIELD," Tony answered, putting down the tablet. "Ever hear of Operation Paperclip? Not totally Fury's fault as this started after World War Two. But come on. How does that not backfire? Seriously?!" He paused for a second, because he really wanted to know whose bright idea that was. He didn't think Aunt Peggy would've been that foolish. "But he's too blinded by his ego to see how SHIELD spoiled." It came out cold.

"I feel like you're letting your ego blind you, Stark." Natasha hissed.

Tony looked toward Rhodey and Ayo and let out a rolling chuckle. "Why doesn't anyone ever believe me? Is it my face? My good looks? Or is it because my last name isn't Rogers?" he asked. He didn't mean to let the last question slip, but it was out of his mouth before he could stop it. Crap, he needed to curb that.

"I do agree you're too pretty for your own good, Tony," Rhodey answered with a shrug. He did not comment on how bitter Tony sounded.

Natasha, on the other hand, did not hold that care. "Does Clint get the same treatment as Steve and I?" she asked. "That's not to say I believe you."

If Tony was to answer her—not that he would-, he wasn't sure how he felt about Barton besides a bit of irritation. Barton was an idiot for leaving his kids, especially after having a third one. How old was the youngest when Barton decided to bat for team cap and become a criminal? One? Two at the most? Sure, Tony didn't have kids—Peter did not count even if his mind went to the boy without hesitation- , but he would not leave his kid to be on the wrong side of the law. However, how much was that due to Wanda? Barton took a liking to her, much like Tony had taken to Peter. In that regard, Tony couldn't fault the Archer, but the man was still an idiot. Plus, he didn't like how Clint blamed him for everything that had gone wrong in in his life. How was it his fault? Tony wasn't sure, but he wasn't everyone's punching bag anymore.

"It doesn't matter if you believe it. You will once you see it," Tony answered. "And I have nothing against Barton beside him being an idiot." It wasn't a lie. It didn't feel as much as a betrayal as with the other ones. Barton hadn't turned on him like Rogers and Romanoff. Barton; they weren't really the closest of friends, usually having Romanoff or Rogers as a bluffer. Besides, he always knew exactly which side the man was on.

Natasha made a face, annoyance behind her eyes. "I would not call Clint an idiot."

"You believe what you want to believe, and I will believe what I want to believe, but we will be fighting Nazis. At least I can say I punched a Nazi. That's going on my tombstone."

*O*O*

Tony was out of his seat as soon as the Jet touched down. He was locked and loaded before the doors opened. He wasn't sure why he was in a big hurry. Be it five minutes from now or fifty minutes from now, they would have the same outcome. "Oh, Natasha, put this on. We don't want anyone to see your pretty face," he said, tossing her same Hud glasses as well. It wouldn't help hide her hair, but she could wrap it under a hood or something. They were going be putting on some heavy jackets. "And it will connect us all together and with JARVIS."

"Going to tell me what we're doing, Stark?" Natasha replied, catching it.

"Search and rescue without Hydra knowing it is us. I don't want them to know we know before we're ready to take them down completely. However, I need to remove this piece from the board before that. He's not a bad guy. Just brainwashed and all. I'm hoping he's on ice when we storm the castle, but be warn, he might not be. So, we might be fighting an angry super soldier," Tony answered, stepping to the opening hatch.

"Is that all?" Rhodey snorted, as he activated his Hud glasses.

Natasha narrowed her eyes at Tony. "A super soldier? If that's the case, why didn't you bringing Rogers. He would be helpful. If there-"

Tony interrupted her before she could finish. "Rogers would be a hinderance more than anything." Someone just had to say 'Bucky' and Rogers lost his shit, and Tony didn't have time for that crap. "I would say trust me on that, but between me and Rogers, I am a 5 to his 11 on the trust scale with you?" He shrugged. "I am—Shit mother fucker," he cursed as the Jet hatch fully opened. The blast of artic cold air that hit him was no fucken joke, feeling like someone had slapped him hard across the face. They were totally going to die before they make it to the base.

*O*O*

"T'Challa?" Tony uttered as the Prince descended from the Wakandan jet. Yes, he was grateful to have the Black Panther here—especially when he recalled how the man handled Barnes in the last timeline, but he wasn't expecting the King to send his son. Nevertheless, the genius would take it. He could do without Okoye staring at him like she was going to skin him alive. At least, Ayo didn't look at him like that anymore. Side note, why hell was it so cold?

"You think I would leave the fun to you, MR. Stark?" The Prince replied, who seemed ineffective by the cold.

"Sure, I like to hoard it," Tony said, shivering. If they did not start moving soon, he was going to turn to ice at any second. That would not be good for anyone. Why was he the only one freezing?

Natasha took a step forward to the Prince, which unsettled a few. Without hesitation, Okaye and Ayo placed themselves between the spy and T'Challa. The other guards—don't ask Tony their names. His brain was too full and cold to remember the 8 of them—took a step forward, their eyes daring the woman to do something. "I didn't think you knew the crowned Prince of Wakanda. A Man of secrets." Her eyes darted to the Wakandan jet. "Or should I say a country of Secrets?"

Feeling the tension, T'Challa looked between Tony and Natasha, his eyes reading every nonverbal clue. "I was not aware that you were bringing Ms. Romanoff."

"I wasn't expecting her either, but she's like cockroach. A bitch to get rid of," Tony said, mindlessly took a step away from Natasha. "Now, let's us get started before we freeze to death." They had coats, but nothing could protect them from this cold. "And oh, I have these HUD Devices. Probably not as awesome as what you have, but I do pat myself on the back. These will connect us with JARVIS, who will be relaying everything back to us. He's our guy in the chair."

T'Challa waved one of the Wakandan forward. "I see, now, why the sister is fascinated by you, Mr. Stark. You are becoming not what I have envision you to be," he said. He was already dressed in his Black Panther outfit, minus the mask which he held at his side. His guards, on the other hand, were not in their culture garments. They were wearing all black head to toe, matching Ayo, though they did have their cultural weapons.

Even though it fucken hurt to breathe (that should be fucking illegal: hurting to fucken breath), Tony smiled. "Well, she is a smart cookie, and we don't have enough of them."

"I must agree." T'Challa replied with a smile. "Shuri would-"

"You can all chat about this later," Rhodey said, stepping forward while trying to school his expression, "when we are not freezing. Sorry, your Majesty." He added after getting some glares from his guards. "I just don't want to freeze my ass off. We just don't have time to for this nonsense ego waving, not one so large as Tony."

"Hey!"

T'Challa laughed as he waved his hand, ignoring Tony and his outburst. "You need not to be sorry, Colonel Rhodes. You just speak the truth. Your record confirms this."

"You checked that?" If Rhodey blushed, it was impossible to tell under the cold breeze. "Well, at least someone agree with me. You should take some lessons from him, Tony."

"Is it pick on Tony day?" Tony said, rolling his eyes. He folded his arms across his chest, trying to warm himself.

Okaye's eye twitched as she took a step forward. "As Colonel Rhodes had said, let's go moving."

Natasha, probably feeling the cold shoulder she had been getting since she blackmailed her onto the mission, took a step forward. "Why don't tell me what the plan is?"

"It's a learning on the job, kind of thing," Tony replied, eyeing each of the guards. They had taken the HUD glasses and placed them on, and JARVIS was connecting/speaking with each of them. "But anyhow, I do say that we need to get moving. Unlike certain Super soldiers, I will not survive in the ice." It really did feel like someone was repeatedly hitting him hard across the face. His face throbbed!

Even if Tony was freezing to death, there was a sense of enjoyment running through him as he spotted Ayo giving Natasha a sterned, harsh glare. There was no way in hell that Ayo was letting Natasha out of her sight the entire time. Tony wasn't sure where Ayo's dislike for the former Russian Spy came from, as she hated her from the beginning. He wondered if it was due to him and his visible dislike for future Natasha, a dislike that he needed to work on.

Anyhow, that was a thought for another time. They had a Hydra Base to a raid.

Author Note:

I did not intend to end that chapter here, but it was growing too large. So you will get the Hydra Raid on the next chapter.

Soo, I chose a pairing. I am not hundred percent on it, wanting to see how it a pairing grew, but that isn't fair to my readers who may or not may like a certain pairing. You should not be forced to read a pairing you do not want and I was doing a dishonor not picking one. Granted, I am the author, so that may have been foolish for thinking one would grow. I control the story, so I could do whatever i want and make it seem natural. A good author can do that.

Anyhow, to be fair to my readers who may not like a certain pairing, i am going to pick one and hope i don't change my mind later. HAHA. I am horrible at picking pairings. When I first thought of this story, I had two possible pairing in mind, but now, those pairings are the fairest thing from my mind. Now, I am going to do a Strange/Stark pairing. If that isn't something you want, then I'm sorry. If you no longer wish to read, I'll say my good byes. Have fun.

To all of the IronStrange fans, it is going to be a long burn. Like a super long burn. I know people say long burns, but this story will make those stories seem like quick burns. Stephen isn't even really in this story yet, even if Tony curses his name every 6 seconds... SO HA. That should give you some Idea how slow it will be.

I will say I enjoy Single Tony, so you will be getting Single Tony until Stephen appears. This meant that there is a Pepper/Tony break up coming up. I am sorry. :( I will note that I will be playing with Dr. Strange's timeline.

Anyhow, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Let me know what you think! Also who you think would win in a Fight? Ayo and Natasha.?

P.S. I like a Natasha/Tony Friendship, so I may be attempt to build that in this story.