Science (Big) Bro
As the two tinkered, the tension from the previous revelation still lingered in the air, as much as the two of them pointedly ignored it.
The clinking of tools and the hum of machinery provided a comforting backdrop to their silent work.
Tony, normally charismatic (annoyingly so, even), was uncharacteristically subdued as he tinkered with a circuit board.
it was weird - he felt a sense of vulnerability that he hadnt in a long time.
With all of his accomplishments in the Clean Energy industry, his age has never been a subject of interest.
well, at least not since the whole “child prodigy” thing at MIT.
people tended to forget how young he seemed , due to his IQ giving him an unusual air of maturity and wisdom…
he didnt like being seen as anything less.
I am literally the smartest man on the planet. My IQ is 270… fucking Einstein’s was 160. Bruce’s is 180… reed richard’s is 260… i have a brain unlike any one ever studied before… i am no child.
Bruce, noticing the change in his friend's demeanor, spoke up softly.
"You okay, Tony?"
Tony glanced up, his eyes reflecting a mixture of weariness and introspection. "Yeah, just... processing, I guess."
Bruce nodded understandingly, his gaze gentle yet probing.
"It's a lot to take in, I know. But… i understand, as much as i can.
I… can’t even begin to fathom the inner-workings of your brain, tony. your IQ - your work…Tony, we’re witnessing history, just by watching you exist.
its insane and an honor. but tony, i am still a genius myself.
i remember what it was like to be brushed off because of my age- how i had to fight just for the attention of a teacher, to get someone to realize i needed to skip a few grades…
Tony, i dont underestimate you. you are far more intelligent than i am ; youre more intelligent than anyone."
A faint smile tugged at Tony's lips.
"Thanks, Bruce. It's just... I never expected my age to become such a big deal."
Bruce leaned against a nearby workbench, folding his arms.
"People have a way of fixating on the superficial. But what matters is who you are, not how many years you've lived."
Tony's expression softened as he met Bruce's gaze, a cheeky smile gracing his lips,
"You sound like one of those Buddhist scammer guys in times square- the ones that charge for ‘words of wisdom’ "
Bruce chuckled softly.
"Years of practice. So, how are you feeling about everything?"
Tony sighed, setting aside his tools and leaning back in his chair.
"Honestly? It's a mix of frustration and acceptance. Frustration because suddenly everyone sees me differently, and acceptance because... well, there's no changing the past."
Bruce nodded in understanding.
"It's a shift in perspective, for sure. But I think it also opens up opportunities for deeper connections with the team."
Tony's brow furrowed slightly.
"Do you really think so? I mean, they've always seen me as Tony Stark, the genius billionaire playboy philanthropist. Now, it's like they're trying to figure out who I am beneath all that."
Bruce offered a reassuring smile.
"It's a chance for them to see the real you—theyre all… quite fond of you now. there’s definitely not any chance of you escaping their obvious actions of endearment. i feel as though they’re now willing to see you. you know, without the filter of the arrogant media man or whatever you call it. "
Tony leaned forward, his gaze intense.
"You know, Bruce, you've always been the one person who sees beyond the façade. well- other than pep and rhodey, of course. why is that?"
Bruce's smile widened.
"Well, we science bros have to stick together, right?"
A hint of laughter crept into Tony's voice.
"Absolutely. Speaking of which, any progress on that antidote?"
Bruce's eyes sparkled with excitement.
"Actually, yes. I think we're onto something. Let me show you."
As they dived into the intricacies of their project, the weight of the earlier conversation began to lift.
Hours passed in the lab, filled with animated discussions and bursts of laughter, as bruce fondly watched over the man who he began to see as a younger brother.
Tony found himself rediscovering the joy of bouncing ideas off someone who understood him on a level few others did.
As they wrapped up their work for the night, Tony couldn't help but feel grateful for Bruce's unwavering support and friendship.
“Thanks for being here, Bruce," he said sincerely.
Bruce smiled warmly.
"Anytime, baby brother."
”bruce, i swear-“