Avengers x Reader

Colonial Puppy Corps (Tony Stark)

"What do you mean you don't think this is working? I thought... aren't you happy? With me?"

Looking across the table at your possibly soon -to -be ex, it took every ounce of strength not to cave at the forlorn look he was giving you.

"Yes, when you're with me. I love you, but you're never around. I understand your work is important to you and the world needs you, but I need you, too." You paused, waiting for him to say something, sighing when he didn't. "I haven't seen you in weeks, Tony. I had to make an appointment with JARVIS just to talk to you today." He visibly winced at the words. "That's not all. I know you're worried about me, and you only want to protect me, but I can't stay locked up anymore. I can't leave the tower, yet you and everyone else are always busy or away on missions; it gets lonely."

You both sat in silence until the food went cold, neither able to eat a bite. When you were ready to leave, Tony placed his hand on the small of your back, leading you out with a smile on his face as if nothing had happened. It quickly dropped once you were in the privacy of his car. He took you to several specialty shops, making small talk while looking for something to gift Bruce for his upcoming birthday. You didn't know what he ended up ordering, too worried that he hadn't addressed the concerns you mentioned at lunch.

He stopped the car at what you assumed was another shop, but didn't get out. Instead, he took your hand and asked you to look at him.

"About what you said earlier, I'm going to fix it, ok? Despite what everyone says, I'm not perfect," he tried to joke. "It's going to take time, and I probably will make more mistakes, but there is something I can do for now." He gestured behind you, and when you turned, you were faced with the front door of an animal shelter. "I know you've always wanted a dog, and I guess now's a good a time as any."

"Are you serious?" You tried to quell the excitement bubbling in your chest. He had a strict 'no pet' policy in the tower, much to your and your best friend Bucky's displeasure. "I appreciate it, but a dog's no substitute for you or fresh air."

"I know, and believe me, I'm going to try harder, just please don-" He choked back a sob, unable to even say the words. "It's so you won't be as lonely, and I can breathe easier knowing you're not alone in the tower or in town. You can get a small one; they're easier to clean up after. Maybe a yorkie? Less shedding, you know. I think a chihuahua might be nice, too," he said, the words rushing out in desperation. "They're very protective and will let you know when danger's lurking and you can get to safety. It's up to you though. There are a lots of small breed dogs that would be a wonderful addition to our family."

Your breath caught at his last words, so happy to hear he considered you a family it was hard to feel disappointed at his solution. Though, you were pleased he offered one at all, and ecstatic just to be able to get a dog. When you stepped out of the car, you excused yourself to the restroom so you could text Bucky.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Y/N: Dude! Tony said I can get a dog!

Bucky: NO WAY! Wait, I thought you were breaking up?

Y/N: Yeah, but he said he was going to make it up to me, and now we're at the shelter.

Bucky: Glad you're not moving out. Can I borrow your dog? I been wanting one as a running partner.

Y/N: Well, he said to get a small one. Like a yorkie or chihuahua or something 😨

Bucky: What?! I can't go running with those!

Y/N: Well, you can, it'd just have to ride in your pocket 😂

Bucky: Focus.

Bucky: Y/N?