Wizards and Geniuses [IronStrange]

New York |8|

There was one thing he despised, lying to Tony. But what other option did he have? He couldn't say 'Hey I imagined us kissing.' he'd think he's nuts!

It's no secret to himself anymore, yes, he does have feelings for Tony. It's always been there, but he doesn't know what to do with them. His mind has been exploring into romantic scenarios with him and Tony, lately. And he feels uncomfortable with it.

He feels as if he were betraying Tony, picturing him in those situations without him knowing. Imagining their lips rolling off each other, holding hands while studying, going on romantic dates, teaching Tony how to use magic, giving each other affection, he was a mess...

Stephen choked back the truth, he had to lie for a little longer, until he's ready to confess. First, he wants to see if Tony shows any signs of being into him, second he wants to confess whenever the timing is right. He wants to confess on a beautiful day, at a breathtaking place, when the moment is profound.

How did he figure out his feelings? With the help of Mobius and his 'therapy sessions.' Even though Mobius has been a little pushy toward their relationship, he's been a big help with Stephen realizing his feelings. Sure, he teased him about it, but he truly listened to what Stephen had to say about Tony, and he'd help Stephen figure out what he's actually trying to mean. He'd never twist his words.

Stephen made direct eye contact with Tony, he needed to make this lie believable, otherwise he'll blow it. "You're right, and I don't want to talk about it." He said. It wasn't exactly a lie, he truly didn't want to say anything about it.

He could tell that he made Tony feel sad, he looked as if he were to be left out of a group. Tony's frown ghosted into a scowl, "I hate it whenever you do that..."

"What do you mean?" Stephen asked.

Tony took in a large sigh, "Listen, you're entitled to your secrets, and I value them. But it seems like everyday you're freaked out by something I do. You've ran away from me countless times with no reason at all, you're starting to get secretive with Mobius: I see you two whisper a lot, it hurts my feelings..."

Wow, Stephen did not expect that. He felt bad, he had no idea Tony felt this way. "Shit... Tony, I didn't know. I was so caught up in my head, I wasn't paying attention to how you felt. This is all very complicated, I'm figuring things out. I promise you, I'll tell you the truth, later in the future. I'm just not ready to tell you now..."

"Okay... did I do something wrong? Do you secretly hate me? Because..." Tony's voice trailed off.

"No, no! Tony, I don't hate you. That's not it."

"That's good. Um... You don't owe me the truth, so don't feel pressured into telling me in the future. I needed to let out those trapped emotions."

"Well, thank you for telling me...I'll be more aware of that."

——

Their plane ride was over, they safely arrived to their destination. Someone Howard knew drove them over to his house. As they were in the car, Tony went over some things about his father.

"Alright, don't talk about magic. He's only interested in logical shit."

"What? How could he not like magic?"

"He thinks it's too 'modern'."

"That's ridiculous, magic is ancient." Stephen said.

"Explain that to him. Also! Make sure you address him as Mr. Stark, don't call him Howard."

"Jeez, do you want me to bring him flowers too?"

Tony giggled, "He loves Sea Hollys." He winked. "I'll keep that in mind."