Tony Calls T'Challa
It took a few days before Tony could convince himself to give his favorite prince a call over video. “Hey T’Challa.” He gives a sheepish and guilt ridden smile.
“Tony…” His name comes out like it was a prayer, reverent, hopeful, and a tad scared. “How have you been?”
“I’ve been okay, but I could have been better.”
“Is something wrong?” T’Challa sits more rigid and moves as if he would crawl through the video call. “Are you okay?”
“I’m sorry for leaving like I did. I shouldn’t have, but I was scared.”
“I am sorry to have scared you. It was never my attention. Nor to make you feel uncomfortable to stay.”
Tony flaps his hand to dismiss the notion. “It wasn’t you. Not exactly anyways.” He closes his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose, trying to will himself to say what he needs to without any extra flare or distractions. He absently notes that the prince doesn’t say anything the whole time and it makes him smile a little – no one ever just gave him the chance to think and get his thoughts in order. They expected him to react quickly and then get mad at whatever spews out of him. He opens his eyes to look at the prince and sees an encouraging smile, a body language that shows how open and caring he would be to whatever the genius said. “I was scared because of the age difference, the status difference, the country difference. I was scared that I could ruin our friendship because I am me. Pepper was my friend long before we dated and now we barely speak. What was once intriguing and convinced her to go out with me, became a problem. It didn’t help she only wanted one part of me and wanted me to get rid of the other half. I have too few of friends, and I don’t want to lose you. I don’t like the fact you made me hope for better, and I couldn’t handle that. I also didn’t have my safe place there as I try to work through things.”
The two stared as each other, letting the words sink in. But eventually the prince put a hand over his heart before bowing his head slightly. “I apologize that I did not think to ask where you would have a place to go to that helps you feel safe. I think I may have forgotten that while you fit in here and are beloved, you were far from what you know. I would never wish to make you feel cornered.” He shifts slightly. “I also would like you to know our friendship does not hinge on how well we pair. I mean no offense but I am not so fragile as Ms. Potts to let that be the end of us. Nor would I wish you to be anything but you. I have fallen for all that makes you you and wish to know you even better. I do not want a part of you or to mold you into something else. I want Tony Stark. No age, status, or even location affects that desire.
If you would allow me, I would like to give us a try because I know our present will make for a good future. I would come to New York, and court you there. Abide by what makes you feel safe, and follow your lead. I know it can be scary, but I ask for the chance to show you that taking a chance isn’t a bad thing. I wish to show you what it means to be loved without conditions. I wish to show you that even if it is just as your friend. I will cherish you as you deserve.”
T’Challa doesn’t bring attention to Tony’s tears that spill down his face. He smiles brightly instead when he sees him nod and hears the quiet “Please.”