Electric Storm

Chapter 8: Everything Will Be Fine

'Dad, it's fine. Happy can drive me. You need to stay here.' I tell him firmly as I pack my bag.

Dad huffs as he sits on the end of my bed. 'I don't understand why you're leaving. Pepper and I are fine.' 

'You and I both know that's not true.' I snap. 'I'm going upstate for the weekend and when I come back, you and mum had better have fixed what ever it is that has gone wrong.' 

Dad seems taken back but is too tired to argue against my tone. I have to be harsh. They need to fix their relationship and this is the last chance. 

I don't want to lose my mum. I don't want to lose my dad. 

...

'And you're just letting her go?' Mum complains. 

'Pep, it's just for the weekend.'

'I know that but why don't you tell me these things? I thought she was on a break from the Avengers.'

'She is! And it's not like it's a mission. She's just saying hello to Nat and Wanda.'

'Oh don't give me that shit. I know something is up but you don't tell-'

'Mum, nothing is up.' I say calmly, emerging from my room. 'I just thought you and dad might like some time together.'

'Alright, alright.' Mum softens her tone. She always does when I appear. 'Just be careful.' She kisses my head.

'I'll be fine.' I say, hugging her. 'I know dad isn't perfect but please give him a chance.' I whisper into her ear. 'And... look after yourself too. I don't like to see you stressed.'

"Tony? What are you doing?"

"Building suits?"

Mum huffs angrily. "We were supposed to be at a meeting this afternoon which you missed, again."

"I'm sorry. I-"

"Lost track of time. That's your excuse every time!" She sighs frustratedly. "Look, I know you've been stressed and worried about Katy, but you need to take care of yourself! I can't look after both of you." Her voice sounds strained.

I don't know whether to emerge from my hiding space behind the wall. I'd just finished my first training exercise with Nat and I was on my way back to my room. I thought I'd talk to dad but it appears he's occupied...

Have I wrecked their relationship?

Probably. I ruin everything. 

"Tony, I've said this before. I can't be in this by myself-"

"You're not."

"Well that's how it feels. I need you to be my partner, I need us to work together. We can't keep having this argument!"

How long has this been going on for? Did I miss something?

"Listen, Pep, I'm sorry. I really am. I'll try to be better. I will be better."

"You've been saying that for years." She sighs. "I don't want to get in the way of your suits and the Avengers, but I need you with me."

"I know, I know." His voice calms. "Do you want me to stay here? I don't have to take Katy upstate."

"No, no. We both agreed that until she's better, it's best for her to be away from the city. And she'll be there with Nat and Steve."