CHAPTER THREE
Two days after, Stiles was impatiently waiting for Scott in a private airport. The idiot of his friend had to arranged some business back at the clinic before coming to New York, Stiles had suspected it had something to do with Derek but he didn’t ask further. He checked the hour for fifth time in the past twenty minutes as his leg bounced with anxiety.
He felt a warm hand on his shoulder, lightly squeezing. Stiles turned and gave a quick smile to Steve, unsure why he was being so supportive with him but hey, he wasn’t complaining.
Tony watched the exchange with narrowed eyes, “Get your ugly old hand off my brother Rogers” He warned turning on his seat. Both him and Stiles rolled their eyes.
“He´s just being nice” Stiles answered distracted, playing with the radio, trying to play some music. Tony stopped texting and dropped his phone on his legs, “Leave that alone, you’re gonna break it” He complained pushing Stiles hand with a smack.
“You know, you could actually learn something from him” He advised, pointing at Steve, who only half smiled nodding in complete and utter agree. Tony once more looked between them with a grin fill with disgust, he scoffed, “Be like Steve freaking Rogers…” He whispered shaking his head as if he couldn’t believe it, “What? You mean, learn to be old?”
Steve deeply sighed and pooped his head between the seats, staring directly at Stiles, ignoring for completely Tony´s presence, “Has the plane arrived yet?” He asked hopeful, at first he had thought it would be nice to ride with Stiles but of course Tony had to tag along and he was just being the same asshole he always was but Steve just wanted for Tony to no be an idiot in front of Stiles, he didn’t know why and he was not going to decipher it.
Stiles shook his head and twisted his mouth, “I think in twenty minutes it will be here” He murmured unsure, feeling a little sorry for Steve, showing an apology smile.
Tony smirked still entertained on his phone, “You said that twenty minutes ago”
Steve shook his head, Tony was a pain in the ass, “I´m gonna grow old in here” He complained leaning on his seat, closing his eyes. But he wide opened them when he heard Tony´s scoff, “Grow old all over again? Is that even possible” He asked before laughing, as if his joke had been funny. Steve pulled a face and popped his head between the seats again. Stiles got ready for the whole little play again.
“Really? it was funny the first joke but the twentieth time not so much, so just… shut up before I kick your ass” He threatened him ready to answer back if necessary.
Stiles lightly laughed gaining Steve’s attention, “And what are you laughing at?” He madly asked crossing his arms over his chest. Stiles couldn’t help but laugh harder, “You suck at this” He managed to say between laughs. When his phone rang with a message, he looked down and read a it. He smiled feeling the excitement growing inside him, “He’s here” He exclaimed before quickly climbing off.
“Wait Stiles” Steve exclaimed following him. Tony was abruptly left alone in the car, he looked around him before cursing under his breath, “Goddamn it” He exclaimed annoyed closing the door behind him. He slowly walked following Steve´s steps.
“You excited?” Steve asked amused, watching Stiles from behind.
“You have no idea” He answered happily as he watched the plane land, “It has been too many weeks without him” He added, his smile growing with excitement. Steve nodded with a small smile, he could understand the feeling.
The moment the door opened and the stairs descended, Scott was quickly climbing down, back pack on his shoulder and black sunglasses on. Stiles nodded to himself and waved a hand, even from there he could see Scott´s dumb puppy smile.
“Hey man” Stiles said out loud beginning to walk, hands inside his pockets.
“Well, that was truly a good experience” Scott answered happily as he walked toward him too. Stiles smirked, “I´m glad you enjoyed it”
Even that far and with his glasses on, Stiles was perfectly sure Scott was rolling his eyes, “Yeah and thanks to you Mr. big cheap I only enjoyed it until now”
Finally face to face, Stiles was able to brightly smile, he knew it hadn’t been long since the las time they saw each other but it felted like a really long time ago, “God, I missed your bitching” Stiles whispered before hugging him. Scott laughed hugging him back, “I missed you too man”
“Now for god´s sake I need to meet Tony Stark” He exclaimed already looking around. Stiles rolled his eyes and sighed, “Sorry for not telling you earlier”
Scott twisted his mouth and shrugged, “I can understand why you didn’t tell me, I just… I don’t like the fact you thought you couldn’t do it” He answered as they walked back to Steve and Tony, who were chatting between them.
Stiles nodded looking down, he kicked a rock in his path, “I know man, I guess I just didn’t want things to change” He mumbled but immediately felt genuinely stupid, he laughed under his breath making Scott look at him side way, “Guess everything changed anyway” He added shrugging. Scott bumped his shoulder lightly, it was their sign of comfort. Finally Stiles looked up smiling, “I´m glad you’re here”
Scott stopped walking momentary, staring at Stiles with narrowed eyes, “Damn buddy, New York has changed you” He exclaimed teasing Stiles, who only rolled his eyes laughing out loud.
“Shut up, c´mon its time you meet my brother and surely my future crush and husband"
Stiles slow down the car, at the red light in front of him. He cleared his throat at the intense silence there was, apparently Scott was still in shock. Tony had raised his hand with a perfect charming playboy smile, ready to meet his brother´s best friend but Scott had stayed open mouthed in complete surprise. It had happened exactly the same with Steve.
Stiles looked up through the rear view mirror trying to catch Scott´s attention, one more time he cleared his throat and finally he looked up. Stiles almost laughed at Scott´s puppy eyes, wide open still filled with surprise. He made a head movement, trying to encourage Scott to say something, anything instead of the deep uncomfortable silence. Almost immediately Scott nodded excited.
The traffic light turned green and Stiles started the car. Scott cleared his throat gaining Tony´s and Steve´s attention, “So…” He began quietly, “Brothers huh?”
Stiles sighed closing his eyes for a second but for his surprise, Tony laughed and answered, “Yeah… still pretty impressive right?” He answered as he turned his head around to face him, “Tell me Scott, do you work?”
Stiles stared at his brother for a few seconds, feeling truly grateful. Scott nodded repeatedly, “Yeah… I work in a vet” He answered with a bright smile.
Steve joined the conversation sounding impressed, “Really? Hows that going?”
“Well, I´m still finishing the career but Dr. Deaton has been actually a great teacher” Scott answered. Stiles immediately looked up through the mirror at the mention of Deaton, “Incredible for him right Stiles?” Scott asked laughing quietly at the inner joke. Stiles shook his head when Tony turned to him, “Who is that?” He asked.
“He’s the owner of the vet where Scotts works, no one important” He answered quickly, shoving the subject away. Scott frowned momentary but forgot about it when he remembered, “Hey Stiles, have you meet with, whats his name, you know the alp-”
Stiles cursed internally a thousand times, immediately interrupting Scott, “Liam? Yeah, everything fix with the matter, don’t worry about it buddy”
Tony and Steve shared a look at Stiles weird actitud. Steve frowned looking through the window, Derek, Liam, he didn’t know why he cared. But it was gonna probably disappeared, sooner or later, he just like Stiles to be friends with him, that was all.
The car was silent for a few seconds, “Did he guess why you came?” Scott asked quietly. Stiles remained quiet before finally nodding, “Of course he did” He answered frowning. Scott hummed in response looking away. Stiles gave him a quick look and focused on the road, he wanted, needed to know about Derek, how he was doing and feeling, it was eating him alive. He nearly cursed at his caring for him.
“Scott?” He called quietly bitting his lip.
“Yeah?”
“How is… how is he?” He asked quieter, a little afraid of the answer. It wasn’t like he wanted Derek to suffer for him but… he just didn’t want Derek to move on that easily, after all, they were together almost five years, he just wanted for Derek to be alright, better than him. Still Scott´s answered made his heart stop in pain.
Scott took a couple of seconds to answer, specially when Iron freaking man and Captain America where actually paying attention to his answer, apparently they already knew who Derek was. He could see how tense Stiles hands were, clinging to the wheel so hard his knuckles where white, how rigid his shoulders were. He looked down feeling sorry for both of his friends, they had been such a good couple. Derek was… a mess, he quickly moved out of their old apartment and returned to his loft. The last time he saw him was two nights ago and his house was pure chaos, clothes and food everywhere. And Derek himself… long hair and beard. In few words he didn’t look good.
“I´m not gonna lie to you… he’s not good, not even a little bit” He whispered honestly watching Stiles hands squeeze harder the wheel if possible. He could smell the pain and guilt radiating for Stiles, even when his face was incredible hard faced, he would always admire Stiles poker face. He deeply sighed, “He will be fine Stiles” He assured him leaning forward, putting his elbows on his knees.
Stiles was only able to nod because he knew he was about to tear apart the wheel. He nodded again to himself, Derek was gonna be fine, sooner or later, he was gonna be.
“He knows where I am?” He asked clearing his throat when his voice sounded to harsh. Scott shook his head, “They all know Stiles, they saw you on the news”
Stiles swallowed hard and let out his breath, “Crap, right…” He mumbled cursing under his breath. He had being ignoring everyones messages and calls, he didn’t even bother to check who they were. He shook his head, “Lydia is gonna kill you man” Scott exclaimed. Stiles moaned concerned, “Oh… I know”
“But she knows, well they all know why you needed to leave” He assured Stiles trying to make him feel better, but he only shook his head, “They all understood?” He asked confused.
Scott tilted his head, “Well… its just, thats what you do” Scott answered quietly, shrugging as if it was obvious. But he shut himself up when Stiles gave him that look, “What is that supposed to mean?” He asked raising his voice.
“It means dear brother, you’re a runner” Tony answered.
Stiles opened his mouth and closed it again, he deeply sighed and pushed the accelerator, he just wanted to arrive home.
Stiles pushed the screen and the elevator doors opened, he suddenly pushed Scott inside and immediately closed them again, ignoring Tony´s callings after him. He deeply sighed, “Good evening Jarvis” He mumbled happily ignoring Scott´s confused stare.
“Good evening sir, how was the ride?”
Stiles smiled with tiredness, “Could have been worse, thank your very much. Dear Jarvis, this is my best friend Scott” He introduced politely, laughing under his breath when Scott looked around him in fear, “Now Jarvis, I need you to do something for me” Stiles asked.
“Whatever you need Stiles” He answered making Stiles smiled.
“I´m only asking you this because I don’t want you to lie to your creator, can you please do not hear the coming conversation I´m about to have, in any circumstance” Stiles indicated ignoring Scott´s even more confused stare. Jarvis remained silent for a few seconds.
“Whatever you need Stiles” He repeated and somehow Stiles knew he wasn’t listening anymore. He quickly turned to Scott, “You can’t say anything about the pack or werewolves or our past in Beacon Hills related to the supernatural, specially every time we where in danger that was… well practically all time, just don’t say anything” Stiles rambled rapidly.
Scott blinked surprised, “What you mean… you brother doesn’t know any of your crap?” Scott asked impressed, raising his voice, when Stiles didn’t answer and just looked away, Scott hummed, “Why haven’t you tell him?” He asked trying to hide his confusion.
Stiles shrugged, “For the same reason I left, its in the past, theres no point digging in it” Stiles answered climbing off the elevator the moment the doors opened in front of them. Scott followed him closely, “So they don’t know anything? Not about Gerard, the alpha pack, not even the nogitsune and how it still affects you?” Scott asked impressed at how his friend could hide those kinds of secrets, especially from his brother but it was Stiles decision.
Scott shut himself up when Stiles stopped in dry and turned on his heels, “Nothing, specially the nogitsune and I please ask you to leave it this way, if I somehow want to open my mouth, well I´ll tell it but meanwhile, its our secret”
“Just like the old times” Scott whispered to himself waiting for Stiles to opened a door to, apparently their flat, because rich people had the luxury to have several flats in a really really tall building.
Stiles nodded pushing the door for Scott to enter, he half smiled with sadness, “Just like the old times buddy”
Stiles showed his room to Scott, that was practically beside his and well he was amazed looking at the entire flat, it had everything, fancy kitchen, the living room, everything they needed and also the unneeded luxury that came along with.
After Scott finished settle in, they were carelessly talking between them in Stiles room when there was knock on the door, both men looked up.
Pepper popped her head through the door, “Have you decided yet?” She asked quietly, coming in slowly, as if she was afraid she was invading Stiles privacy. He shook his head, “Come in Pepper” He exclaimed opening the door for here, “Pepper, this is my best friend, Scott McCall” He introduced them.
Scott immediately smiled, matching Peppers bright smile and Stiles somehow felt and knew, they would get perfectly along. She turned to him again, “So… what its gonna be?”
He twisted his mouth staring at the movie they where watching and then the snacks, he just wanted to lay down and eat crap. He shook his pants from crumbs and scoffed, “Lets just fucking do this”
“I look ridiculous” Stiles mumbled looking at himself in the mirror, in the most unnecessary expensive suit ever, it wasn’t even that pretty. Pepper hummed behind him, watching him in the mirror from head to toe, “Yeah… I don’t think thats the good one” She answered as she pick other suit among the twenty of them that were scattered in his bed. Scott hummed too from his spot, sitting on the floor, charging his phone, “I agree, I don’t quite like it, other one” He exclaimed returning to his phone.
Stiles rolled his eyes as he took other suit Pepper handed him, “This is the last one, I don’t care and we only have…” He checked his watch and frowned worried, “Ten minutes until the press, oh my god” He complained walking to the bathroom. He quickly changed into the grey suit and stared at himself in the mirror, they all looked the same for him. He quickly stepped out and raised his arms.
Pepper stared at him a couple of seconds ready to talk but Stiles interrupted her, “I don’t care if either of you don’t like it, I won’t change again, I don’t care” He threatened as he searched for his shoes, when he heard Pepper scoff, “You’re just like your brother, I was gonna say thats the one, you look handsome” She answered crossing her arms over her chest.
Stiles passed a hand through his hair and smiled shyly, “Thanks” He mumbled. Pepper answered him with a bright smile before walking away, answering a phonecall.
“I can’t believe I´m gonna do this” He mumbled sitting in the edge of the bed, he put his elbows on his knees. Scott stud up and walked toward him, “Cmon man, you got this, just a couple of… personal and intrusive questions but thats all” He exclaimed clapping him in the back several times. Stiles frowned and looked up confused, Scott shrugged dropping his hand, “You know I suck at this but hey, I´ll be in the crowd watching you and whenever you’re nervous or something you can look at me and pretend you’re only talking to me” He encouraged him.
Stiles stared at the floor before turning to Scott, he didn’t even know what to say, he was just able to smile. Scott returned the gesture brightly, nodding to himself, “I know, I´m a great friend” He exclaimed offering his hand to Stiles, who gladly took before rolling his eyes, “Shut up man…” He mumbled standing up.
He looked one more time at himself in the mirror and nodded. He turned around when he heard Scott whistling, “Oh man… Lydia is calling again” He exclaimed showing his phone to Stiles, Blondie was read in the screen. Lydia´s call was only one among million others. He shook his head and threw his phone to the bed, “I´ll call her latter” He mumbled passing his hand through his hair again, at that rhythm he was gonna became bald. Scott raised one eyebrow and stared at him. Stiles rolled his eyes, “I´ll do it, I promise” He hissed hating how good Scott knew him.
“Guys, now we´re running late” Pepper exclaimed as she entered the room, sill phone on her ear. Stiles nodded quickly and got out of his room, followed closely by Scott, who was still trying to say encouraging words but in reality, it only made Stiles wanna laugh in nervousness. He turned around still walking shushing Scott when he crashed against something hard and it wasn’t a something, it was a someone.
“Oh Steve sorry” He apologized stepping back with a smile. Steve opened his mouth and weirdly stared a couple at seconds at Stiles, who only raised an eyebrow, “You alright there?” He asked before lightly laughing under his breath. Steve shook his head and cleared his throat, “Yeah, yeah sorry” He mumbled scratching the back of his neck. Stiles let himself watched the piece of man in front of him. He was wearing also a suit but his jacket was nowhere to be seen. And damn those arms, what the hell was that, it wasn’t even posible to have such muscles.
“Tonys waiting for you, he’s freaking out a little bit” Steve explained getting out of his trance. He regain his walking on his way back with Stiles right next to him and Scott behind.
“I´m gonna fuck this up- sorry screw, crap, mmm I´m gonna suck at this” Stiles rambled feeling so stupid it hurt him. Steve laughed under his breath, “Thank you” He mumbled waiting for the elevator to open, “I think you’re better than you think you’re” He added stepping inside the metal box. He leaned against the wall.
Stiles leaned beside him, “I think I talk too much and tend to screw things up” He said with half a smile. Scott hummed agreeing, “Yeah… he tends to do that” Scott added nodding repeatedly, “You should have seen him every day in high school, god teachers hated him” Scott said laughing.
Stiles smiled rolling his eyes, “Just because I was smarter than them and they all knew it” He complained bumping Steve´s shoulder when he laughed too.
Finally the doors opened and Stiles could hear the bustle of people talking, he toke a deep breath and froze on his place for a second. Steve was about to stepped out when he noticed, he put a hand on Stiles lower back and lightly push him, “You got this” He whispered. Stiles stared at those blue eyes for a couple of seconds before nodding repeatedly. He walked outside with still Steve´s hand on his lower back, he didn’t mind at all.
Tony wide opened his eyes when he saw him, “Finally idiot, where have you been” He asked arraigning Stiles coat and white shirt, Steve immediately removed his hand and walked away. Stiles huffed and pushed his brothers hands away, “I´m fine, cmon idiot” He exclaimed grabbing his arm and pushing him behind the curtain.
Stiles turned to Scott when he realized, Derek was probably, surely gonna see him, one way or another, he was going to. The fact wasn’t helping to calm his nerves, “Scott!” He exclaimed waving his hand for Scott to walk toward him.
“What?”
Stiles looked everything but his friend, “You think he’s gonna watch it?” He nervously asked twisting his fingers. Scott didn’t need to hear the name to know who he referred to, he looked down, there was no point lying to him, “Yeah, I think he will” He mumbled honestly. Stiles nodded and sighed, “Alright, alright, alright” He mumbled under his breath shaking himself, “Fuck it, I don’t care, fuck it” He exclaimed pushing Scott away nodding at him.
He stepped outside the curtain and suddenly, the bright flashes were all he could see. Pepper had told him to simply smile and waved. So he dedicate himself to smile and wave, he was pretty sure he seemed constipated and just plain weird. His legs moved in automatic to his seat, he knew Tony was exactly behind him but still he couldn’t hear shit, except see the bright flashes in a blur.
He sat down behind a wide desk with a white cloth and bottles of water on it as he took deep breaths, he couldn’t even find Scott´s face. Finally the lights stopped and he was able to see, he blinked several times. Tony was already sitting beside him, talking and smiling charming. And apparently asking something to him.
“What?” He asked quietly to Tony who only raised his eyebrows and turned to the crowd, “I´m sorry he’s just nervous” He exclaimed with a bright smile and every reporter laughed as if there was something to laugh at. Tony choose a random reporter with a purple sweater.
“Are you part of the team Avengers team or will be?”
Stiles blinked several times before shaking his head, “No, not really, I´m just visiting my brother” He answered with a quick smile. Stiles choose other reporter, “Referring to the first question, you’re not planing to be a copy of your brother?”
Stiles stared at the woman with wide open eyes, a copy of his brother? what?, “I´m sorry, a copy of my brother?”
The reporter nodded, “The next iron man” She explained. Immediately Stiles shook his head, he gave a look to Tony and he looked pissed, as if he was too old for his young brother to replace him, “As I said, I am not or won’t be part of the avengers team and certainly won’t be the next iron man” He answered harshly. The reporter nodded with a small smile and sat down. Stiles was hating this, especially when his brother choose other reporter and his question made his blood freeze.
“Why did you kept in secret you have a brother for all these years, was it your fathers idea or yours?”
Stiles stared at the reporter with his coldest stare, was he being serious? Asking why they kept the bastard son hidden. Tony seemed even more mad than Stiles but he still smiled with professionalism, “It was Stiles choice, not my parents or mine and I please ask all of you to keep your unwanted question about that matter for yourselves, thank you”
In a second Tony had recovered his charming smile, showing all his years of experience on those things, after all he was born in the middle of it. Stiles wondered how would his life had been if he had born in the same life, it would probably be so different, he would have missed so many things, he probably wouldn’t even had met his friends, either Derek. Tony pointed other reporter, the interview had to go on.
“Can you tell us what kind of name is Stiles?” A young reporter asked. Stiles nearly stared at her with love for not being an idiot like the other ones. He smiled, “Well, my mother born was born in Poland, she choose the name of her grandfather and its not a name anyone can really pronounce”
The girl nodded writing his answer down, “Do you mind telling us your real name?” She nicely asked. Stiles twisted his mouth and shrugged, “I´m not even sure I say it correctly, my father was the one that came out with my nickname, ahh is Miecyzlaw” He answered unsure, he felt a little shy when everyone started repeating his name out loud. The crowd laughed and Stiles noticed Scott sitting in the middle, he raised his thumbs making Stiles laugh, he nodded with gratitude. He choose other reporter and for Stiles not really surprise it was a hurtful question.
“Can you just explain where did you came from? Are you only interested in Tony´s Stark money?”
Stiles stared at the guy nearly open mouthed, he watched side way as Tony prepared himself to insult the guy every way possible one more time but Stiles stopped him, he shook his head watching him dead in the eye, “Its alright” He mumbled with a quick smile, Tony stared at him before leaning on his seat, madly looking away. Stiles could almost understand those kind of questioning, almost.
“None that is of your business but it was eight years ago that I discovered Howard Stark was my real father, every test was made and well, here I am and to answer any further questions about my brother´s money or the company, no, I do not work in Stark´s industries and I own a small percentage of the company”
The room fell into silence. Tony scoffed under his breath beside him, “More questions?” Stiles said raising his eyebrows.
Every question was more personal than the other one, to a point they asked him about his sexuality, “Excuse me?” He exclaimed watching as the reporter cheeks turned bright red, at least she felt a little ashamed, she clicked something in her phone before raising it, it was Lydia´s Instagram profile, a picture of him and Derek holding hands and smiling like idiots in love. He felt his heart stop and his blood go cold, he swallowed and look down, this had to be a fucking joke, “I think I can enjoy my sexuality, as every other person in this room without no one question it” He answered kicking Tony´s leg under the table with his, he needed this thing to end. Immediately Tony understood, “One last question” He announced, picking other reporter.
“In your records its said you were born in Beacon Hills” A guy with glasses started. Stiles sighed with tiredness, “Your question?”
“Well, you were arrested numerous times for different reasons, including murder suspect, any comments on that?” The guy asked pushing his glasses up his nose. Stiles remained silent for a few seconds sensing the curiosity and tension in the entire room. He looked down shaking his head, this was crap and his mind was in blank.
“My father was the sheriff of the town and well… I used to stole his records from his office every chance I had and try to resolve the crimes with my best friend and we got into lot of problems for it, he would usually found us in crime scenes and well it didn’t turn out the way we expected” He stupidly answered, trying to sound as honest as posible. He could see Scott´s rigid face with his eyes wide opened. He knew he had to call off the interview.
“Thank you all for coming” Stiles said unexpected, quickly standing up. The crowd exploded into million questions and once again, hundreds of flashes. Stiles just wanted to get the hell out.
He walked and walked, still waving and smiling. Until he arrived to the elevator where Scott was waiting, bitting his nail, Stiles was able to finally breath.
“I hate crowds” Scott mumbled the second he visualize his friend, “They make all my sense blurry and confusing” He complained watching carefully at Stiles, who seemed was about to have a nervous colapse, “You did good Stiles, specially that one last question man… and the one with Derek, I mean, what the hell was that”
Stiles sighed rubbing his eyes, “I need a drink and I definitely do not need to think about Derek, everything less him” He mumbled pushing the screen several times with exasperation, he sighed, “I mean, how did that idiotic reporter even knew that, supposedly I got rid of every proof I was a suspect murder” He mumbled to himself, he shook his head, he was never doing a fucking press conference again. The door of the elevator got opened and he immediately stepped in pulling a distracted Scott by the arm, he knew Tony or even Steve were probably looking for him but he couldn’t care les.
“You did good man” Scott repeated, “You looked really handsome and you were polite and answered every question with professionalism and even I believed all your answers”
Stiles nodded, he didn’t want to talk about the stupid interview anymore, “Wanna get drunk? Well, you want to come with me and watch me get drunk?” He asked widely smiling, batting his eyelashes. Scott hummed, “Watch my best friend get ridiculously drunk as he spends vulgar amounts of money?”
Stiles laughed shaking his head, “Don’t forget with Tonys Stark money”
“You got me with that, lets go get you drunk” Scott exclaimed excited, pushing Stiles out of the elevator.
*
“And where do you think you’re going?” Tony asked watching his brother put on a black jacket, “You know the media will be all over you Stiles, specially these days” Tony mumbled leaning against the frame of the door. Stiles shrugged because he really didn’t care, “We are only going out for a few drinks, nothing crazy” It was a complete and utter lie.
“It was a tough conference Stiles, we did good” Tony answered instead but Stiles waved his hand, “Thank you for coming out and- you know with me, just, thanks” Stiles rambled uncomfortable. Tony remained silent and just nodded, feeling as uncomfortable as his brother was.
Stiles sat on the edge of the bed with his shoes on hand, he stared at his brother a couple seconds, it was a good opportunity to bond with him, even if it was in a night club and both of them completely drunk, “You are coming right?” He asked looking down. Tony stared him, “I know what game you’re playing” He hissed but Stiles completely ignored him, tying his shoes. He stood up and brightly smiled.
“And you can also bring the hot cap, god knows he needs to freaking party” Stiles exclaimed putting an arm around Tonys shoulders, “Cmon man, when was the last time we party together” Stiles asked ignoring the fact he knew the answer.
“Literally days ago” Tony answered with a deep sight walking out following Stiles steps, “Are you sure this is a good idea?” Tony asked, but almost immediately Stiles interrupted, “I really don’t care right now brother, so I´m gonna get drunk with or without you, your choice”
*
Steve entered his room as he untie his shirt and tie. He rubbed the back of his neck and sat in the edge off the bed, he bit his nail thinking one more time about Stiles. He didn’t have a clue of what the hell was going on inside his head when it came to him. The moment he saw him in that grey suit, he knew he was in big trouble. And it had been cute how worried he was about the press conference even he did it incredible, but Steve still wanted to ask, what was all that about the suspect murder and how mysterious he was about his past. He knew it wasn’t his problem but still he wanted to know him better. He remembered the picture of him and that other guy holding hands, it was surely the famous Derek. They looked good and Stiles seemed so happy. Steve twisted his mouth, feeling something heavy in his stomach.
He sighed standing up, removing his shirt, when there was a knock on the door, he frowned as he checked the clock on the night stand, it was ten o clock in the night. He frowned harder and confused as he walked to the door, when he opened it, he was as surprised as pleasant, “Stiles?” He asked smiling looking behind him. Scott and Tony were talking between them and apparently they all had a bottle of tequila in their hands.
Stiles words left him in the instant he saw Steve, barefoot and his shirt unbuttoned, he almost fell on his ass, “Wanna get drunk?” He managed to ask before taking a long sip, his eyes never leaving those blue ones. Steve smiled, “I don’t think I can even get drunk” Steve answered crossing his arms over his chest. Stiles almost whistled looking at his biceps stand out, he smiled looking at him head to toe, “Lets go find out big guy” He mumbled raising the bottle, which Steve gladly took.
There were advantages of being the latest notice in the city, the moment he got out of the car with Tony and Steve behind him the chain was opened for them. Scott put a hand on his shoulders with a goofy smile as they entered the bustling nightclub, he quickly took off watching the entire place. Stiles smiled and put an arm around Steve´s shoulders, “Ready to show off your dancing or what cap” He yelled above the loud music. Steve swallowed nervously at Stiles proximity, he only nodded with a smile. Stiles squeezed him against his side before walking past him.
Steve watched him go ignoring the strange feeling inside his chest.
An hour later Stiles was drunkly dancing in the dance floor, among more drunk people. Scott never left his side and how grateful he was for it. Tony and Steve remained in the table talking between them, both staring what stupid things Stiles and Scott were doing, especially Steve.
“Alright Rogers, whats the deal with Stiles?” Tony asked getting near the man with a drink on his hand. Steve frowned and sarcastically smirked, “What are you talking about?” He asked playing dumb as he took a long sip. Tony rolled his eyes, pouring more booze inside Steve´s glass, “Come on Rogers, don’t play dumb with me” He exclaimed putting his elbows on his knees.
But Steve had nothing to say to him, sure there was this intrigue, but it was hardly an attraction, not even to say a feeling, so he had truly nothing to say, “Tony, he’s your brother and he’s a lot younger than me”
Tony scoffed, “Everyone is younger than you” He exclaimed distracted watching something behind Steve, “What?” He asked turning around ignoring his bad joke. Tony nodded before a deep sigh came, “I think someone beat you tonight”
Steve frowned searching for whatever thing Tony referred to, when he noticed. Stiles was talking to a girl, bodies pressed against each other and oh my god, what was that dancing. Steve frowned and looked at Tony again, who only shrugged before finishing his drink. He suddenly stood up making little dance moves. Steve returned to Stiles and frowned harder, he was hating himself right then for feeling that thing he didn’t even knew what it was. He shook his head and finished his drink, taking the bottle, he way needed more alcohol in his veins to be drunk but apparently he had nothing to lose, except he did.
Stiles was happily dancing when he suddenly felt a tiny body against him, he turned and saw a short brunette girl, cute and really sexy. Stiles didn’t waste time. He put his hands on her waist and pressed her harder against him, when he realized the girl was liking it. He noticed Scott´s thumbs up, smiling like an idiot with enthusiasm. He laughed and nodded before putting his head inside the girls neck, lightly kissing it. How glad he felt he was dancing in a dark nightclub with so many many people around him, no one had to noticed.
He felt some eyes on him, he looked up scanning the place when he noticed Steve and Tony still in their table. Tony was drunkly dancing on his own, really feeling the moment, but Steve. He had such a serious face, Stiles frowned confused, you alright? he mimicked. Steve opened his eyes surprised as if he hadn’t noticed Stiles was watching him. Steve quickly nodded with such a fake smile before rising a bottle. Stiles laughed under his breath, apparently Captain America, indeed could get drunk. Stiles lightly pushed the girl away and took her hand, “You want a drink?” He asked her with his most charming smile. Immediately the girl said yes.
Stiles knew he had to care she was only with him because she had seen the news, because she knew who he was but honestly Stiles didn’t give a fuck, he also didn’t care it was the first person he was flirting with since Derek, he didn’t care about anything at all. He dedicate himself to push away his guilt and pain for later, it didn’t made him any good right then.
When he arrived to the table, Tony raised his glass, yelling excited. Stiles laughed too celebrating, they didn’t know what, but something with his brother. Even the girl joined but not Steve. Stiles turned to the girl a bit confused, “What did you say your name was?” He drunkly asked. The girl blinked several times, damn she looked worse than Stiles, “Casey” He mumbled before putting her tongue into Stiles ear, who only laughed clumsily. Tony and apparently Casey began chatting between them, laughing at every stupid thing they said. Stiles sat beside Steve, who only raised an eyebrow. Stiles frowned, “Whats wrong captain?” He asked putting an arm around him, barely touching him. But immediately removed it when Steve sighed and nearly rolled his eyes, “Alright…” Stiles mumbled walking away feeling way too bewildered.
But Steve put a hand on his arm stopping him and shook his head, “Sorry, sorry, I´m not used to so much alcohol” He exclaimed trying to blink properly. Stiles sat again staring at him worriedly, “You feeling okay?” He asked slapping him in the face. Steve rolled his eyes and pushed his hand away, “Yeah, I´m not that drunk, I still felt that” He exclaimed annoyed staring at the girl talking with excitement with Tony. Stiles noticed and looked between them, he laughed under his breath, “What? you didn’t like Casey?” He asked raising his eyebrows. When Steve shook his head, Stiles stood up, it was all he needed to know, “Alright big guy, everything you want, just give me a sec” Stiles answered standing up.
Steve knew he was being a little baby, childish, telling Stiles he didn’t like her because he just didn’t like her, instead of saying the truth, that he didn’t like her because she was with him. Steve watched as Stiles took the girl a few meters away, before literally putting his tongue inside her mouth. Steve moaned and looked away. He heard someone laughing beside him. Tony stared at him, “Yeah, cause theres nothing there” He mumbled watching his brother and the girl eating each other. He pulled a face, damn his brother was a little rough.
“Can you please stop watching them?” Steve asked before laughing, “its creepy” He added still laughing, taking a long sip of his bottle. Tony laughed too under his breath, “Cmon big guy lets dance” He exclaimed, teasing Steve for the apparently nickname Stiles had used several times to refer to him.
“You know, thats how he used to call his ex” Tony suddenly exclaimed looking for something in his phone. Steve frowned and blinked, “What?”
Tony sighed filling his glass one more time, “Derek, he used to call him big guy too”
Steve rolled his eyes and shook his head, his commentary was totally unnecessary and Steve was willing to completely ignored it. He stood up and give Tony his hand, “Cmon idiot lets dance”
As the girl sucked Stiles neck, he noticed his brother and the big cap walking to the dancing floor, where Scott was still there. He smiled staring at Steve, god, he was so bad at dancing. The girls lips returned to his, he kissed her deeply before stepping back, “I´ll be with my friends, see you later?” He exclaimed ignoring the girls surprised eyes. Stiles gave her an apology smile before he shrugged, yeah he was probably being an asshole but he got bored quickly, besides, Steve was way more fun to dance with.
He quickly walked away, dancing his way through among the crowd. Scott smiled brightly raising his arms above his head. Stiles was suddenly in front of Steve, who was a little surprised but didn’t move away. Not even when their hand or legs touched each other for a moment, neither of them seemed to care.
More dancing, more alcohol and more Steve and Stiles was all forgotten about Derek and the fucking press conference, for a night, it was a nice gift.
Until Steve literally passed out of his drunkenness. Stiles had never seen someone drank that much and he knew he was an alcoholic, still the levels of booze Steve consumed in matter of hours, he should be on a hospital instead of secretly carrying him for the back door, avoiding every paparazzi. Stiles had one of Steve´s arm around his shoulders and Scott had other arm on his and well Tony was no where to be seen and he wasn’t answering his phone, as always he was being of so much help.
It definitely was not easy to carry a drunk super soldier, specially when he wanted to dance more and drink even more. Stiles gave a look to Scott and deeply sighed, “Man, he’s heavy as shit” Stiles mumbled trying to walk, ignoring Steve´s laughs and confused limbs. Scott pulled a worried face, “Whats if he vomits?” He asked still walking to their car. It was right in font if them and yet so far. Steve suddenly straightened up and pushed them away, “I can walk guys” He mumbled taking step by step, slowly making his way to the car.
Stiles and Scott shared a look and both shrugged, “If he says he can walk” Scott mumbled putting his hands inside his pockets, “What happened with the girl?” He asked after a few seconds of silence with curiosity why his friend missed an opportunity of being with someone else. But low-key Scott already knew the answer. Stiles shrugged and shook his head, “I kissed her and thats it, I got distracted” He answered frowning, indeed he had gotten distract and nothing more and nothing less for the drunk man awkwardly walking in from of them.
Scott gave a side way look, “Distracted for the same reason I think?”
Stiles smirked, “What do you think?” He mumbled before turning to him, laughing under his breath, “I don’t know man, it doesn’t feel good, I feel like somehow I´m still betraying him” He added.
Scott nodded, he could relate to that, “Yeah I know what you mean but trust me, it goes away, sooner or later, it goes away” Scott exclaimed before bumping his shoulder. Stiles was about to answer when they heard a loud noise in front of them. Stiles looked up and realized Steve had fallen into his ass and Tony and the girl? What the hell was Casey, Stiles remembered, doing there and helping Steve stand up. Him and Scott shared a look before walking faster.
Tony raised his arms, “Really? You guys let him walk alone?” He exclaimed before crossing his arms over his chest playing mad. Stiles taking advantage Casey was still distracted he took him by the arm and pulled him away, “Really? The girl I kissed and ditched?” Stiles answered back looking between them. Tony only rolled his eyes, “Yeah, what was that? She’s really nice and pretty” He exclaimed clapping Stiles in the back, “We bumped into each other outside the bathrooms” He explained.
He gave him a killer stare, “I´m gonna tell Pepper” He threatened raising his finger but Tony only stared at him. Stiles sighed and looked down, “I´m not ready alright? I can’t” He finally said irritated, lightly hating his brother for making him say his feelings out loud. Tony twisted his mouth and remained silent, “Are you sure?” He asked quietly putting a hand on Stiles shoulder but he just nodded, “Yeah, I´ll will tell her, don’t worry” He said to Tony before walking away.
She was still helping Steve remain on his feet. He stared at Scott, “Why is he not inside the car?” He madly asked taking Steve´s arm, who scoffed, “You know, I´m drunk, not deaf” He rambled annoyed snatching his arm free. Stiles sighed and turned to girl, “Casey…” He nervously started, wishing he had drank way more alcohol for this crap. But the girl raised her hand and half smiled, “I get it, I can see it” She whispered before winking at Stiles, who only smiled and put a hand on his chest showing his gratitude.
The three idiots watched her leave. Steve frowned staring at Stiles with confusion, “What does she gets?” He asked finally letting himself being carried inside. Stiles shook his head, “That I´m not ready for this crap” He answered before closing the door. Steve was abruptly left alone inside the car. He was drunk, he wasn’t stupid, even him in his condition could understand he was just losing his time, feeling this… intrigue for a person that had just finished a five year old relationship with its first love. He leaned his head against the window and sighed, it was useless, whatever stupid crap was going inside his chest, it needed to stop, he knew it, his sober him knew it and also his alcoholic him knew it, it needed to stop.
“Cmon Tony” Siles exclaimed opening the door for his brother. He was the only one missing. Tony showed him the finger as he talked on the phone. Stiles rolled his eyes and climbed inside the car, he closed the door behind him and stared at Steve, he was completely passed out, loudly snoring with his mouth wide opened. Stiles laughed under his breath taking out his phone and taking a quick picture.
“I am not carrying him inside” Scott warned raising his finger. Stiles scoffed and leaned on his seat, watching as the sun began appearing in the skyline, it had been a pretty good night.
Finally Tony climbed inside, he gave a quick smile to Stiles, who only rolled his eyes, “It was about time” He complained crossing his arms over his chest. Tony was about to reply when he noticed Steve, “Alright, I´m not carrying him inside, less if he throws up”
When they finally arrived to the kitchen, Steve still passed out, the sun was completely out. Natasha was already on her uniform, ready for her mission, eating breakfast. She raised a perfect eyebrow watching the four idiots entering according to them with discretion. Tony gave him a charming smile, she just rolled her eyes, watching as they carry Steve to his room.
Stiles leaned on the elevator as this went up, Steve one more freaking time thought Stiles was his bed or pillow because he put an arm around his neck, he felt his warm breathing against his skin. Stile took a deep breath ignoring his excitement, “Something wrong?” Tony asked mocking him making Scott laughed under his breath. Stiles sighed putting his head against the wall, “I hate you all” He mumbled but couldn't help his smile.
As soon as the doors were opened they exited quickly. Tony was the one that lost in scissors, paper, rock and supposedly the one to put Steve into bed. But the moment they entered the room, Tony carelessly dropped Steve in the edge of the bed making him fall against the floor. The three stared at Steve still deeply asleep, his face against the floor.
Stiles titled his head and hummed, “He looks comfortable”
Scott nodded beside him before shrugging, “Yeah, I really don’t care, I´m not picking him up” He exclaimed already walking out. Tony shrugged too and followed Scott and well who was Stiles to carry the captain on his own. He quickly walked out, carefully closing the door behind him.
For his surprise Tony was waiting for him outside, “I have news, I really don’t know how you will take them, apparently Scott got excited”
Stiles sighed as he waited for the elevator, if Scott had gotten excited with the news he was pretty sure he was gonna hate it, “What is it?” He asked with tiredness, god he needed a nap. Tony slowly shook his head, “Well… its a gala thing…” He mumbled unsure, specially when Stiles stared at him, “What?” He asked frowning, “I was talking to the sponsors earlier, we have to go, its a gala” He explained twisting his fingers, at Stiles deep silence, Tony sighed annoyed, “Its too recall fonds for some cause, its an anual thing, I don't know whats the cause of this year” Tony rambled putting his hand inside his pockets, “But well, Stark industries is the one financing and well you are a Stark so…”
Stiles pulled a face and shrugged, “I really don’t care right now, talk to me in a couple hours and I´ll have your answer” He exclaimed as he entered the elevator, he just needed to sleep. Tony opened his mouth but Stiles was already out of his sight.
“Right…” He whispered to himself, walking away. He needed some sleep too, Pepper was gonna kill him.
*
There was a loud knock on his door, Stiles moaned as he hid his head under the pillow. He groaned loud enough to make sure the person knocking on his door took the hint and get the fuck out but it didn’t disappear. Stiles threw his pillow away feeling way too annoyed, “What?!” He asked with gritted teeth. Slowly Steve popped his head through the door, immediately Stiles anger left him.
“Steve?” He asked unsure as he scattered between his sheets looking for his black shirt, “Can I come in?” Steve asked quietly, really shyly. Stiles blinked several times and put his shirt on when he finally found it, “Yeah, yeah sure come in” He exclaimed standing up, remembering he was on his boxers but it was too late. Steve was already in and he looked like crap.
“You look like crap” Stiles exclaimed honestly staring at the deep purple circles under his eyes. Steve cheeks passed through every color until they were deep red, “I´m sorry, you were asleep, I´ll just…” He mumbled already walking out. Stiles shook his head a little surprised and followed him out, “No, no, I was already awake” He lied with a smile. When he noticed Steve still looking everywhere but Stiles, he then realized.
“Oh, oh, I´ll put my pants on” He mumbled awkwardly under his breath before quickly walking to his room. His room was a complete mess, they where clothes everywhere, dirty, clean, new, a complete dirty mess. He actually took a couple of minutes to find a clean and decent pair of pants.
When he returned Steve looked more relax but still looked like shit, he seemed so out of place and tired, Stiles wanted to laugh.
“You alright?” Stiles asked as he opened his fridge, looking for something to drink. Steve only nodded making Stiles frown, “Come on man, it was a good night” He exclaimed taking out the orange juice. Steve nodded again making Stiles sighed.
“Whats on your mind?” He asked pouring the liquid into two glasses. Steve accepted his with a quick smile, “I feel like shit” He finally murmured looking so out of the blue, all Stiles was able to do was laugh. Steve shook his head, “I´m not supposed to feel like shit” He exclaimed taking a sip.
Stiles nodded, he could perfectly understood the feeling, “Look, hungover hits everyone, even a super soldier. But probably in twenty minutes you’ll be as perfect as always” He assured Steve, who only raised his eyes at the perfect word Stiles had just said.
“Perfect?”
“Well… yeah, your immune system is almost perfect” Stiles answered as if it was obvious, “Oh… right” Steve replied taking a sip of juice, he sat down when he felt his stomach switch. Stiles stared at him a few seconds, he suddenly stood up opening the fridge again, “I don’t know if this will help you but its actually a really effective cure” He mumbled distracted looking for the bottle of vodka he kept in, “Aha!” He exclaimed taking it out.
“Oh my god, no” Steve exclaimed looking away with disgust. Stiles scoffed and rolled his eyes, “Come on, just a sip, its supposed to make you feel better, it really works, I promise”
Steve watched as he poured a little bit in his empty glass, he swallowed hard accepting the glass, “Come on big guy” Stiles insisted watching him trying not to laugh. Steve stared at him a few seconds, he remembered what Tony had said the night before. He used to call this guy Derek the same way, big guy. A stupid coincidence, Steve was sure, something not worth digging in.
Without any more further thinking, Steve took it quickly, he coughed at the burning sensation in his throat. Stiles smirked as he himself took a sip, “Refreshing right?” He asked waving his eyebrows before taking other sip. Steve stared at him still with disgust, “You have a problem” He exclaimed before laughing.
Stiles opened his mouth playing offended when he just shrugged and nodded, “Yeah… I think I do but hey as long as I enjoy it” He exclaimed raising the freezing bottle, taking other sip.
“My god, you want to kill yourself or what?” Tony exclaimed with disgust as he slowly entered the room, rubbing his eyes. Stiles smirked pouring juice on other glass, “Good morning sunshine” He exclaimed passing him the juice, way more happily than Tony could handle.
“I think you mean afternoon” A deep and tired voice spoke. Clint appeared through the elevator, with his uniform covered in dirt and well apparently dried blood. Tony frowned, “Are you just coming back from your mission?” He asked watching the man dropped himself in the chair beside him. Clint hummed a poor yes and put his head against the cold table, “I hate work” He complained, he looked up again, watching everyone, they all looked worse than him, “And what happened to you guys?” He asked but shook his hand when he saw the bottle of vodka in Stiles hand.
“Ahg, never mind, you guys partying and I working” He falsely complained stealing Tony´s glass, who was too tired to fight back for it. Clint pulled a face, “Is there food in this place?” He asked.
Stiles sighed and left the bottle on the table, “Just give me a sec…” He mumbled before walking toward Scott´s door, “Scott!” He yelled banging the door, making Steve lightly jumped in his seat but Stiles was actually right about the sip of booze, he was, in fact starting to feeling better, at least his head wasn’t spinning anymore.
The door wide opened and Scott walked outside in his underwear and his hair in a perfect mess. He was rubbing his eyes, not realizing half of the avengers team was sitting in his kitchen, staring at him. Stiles stared at him feeling too, sorry for his friend but hiding his laugh, “Why you always wake me up like a crazy bitch” He complained stretching when he turned and realized there was people in there.
Scott wide opened his puppy eyes, “Stiles!” He said out loud running to his room, it almost made Stiles feel bad but he heard the other laughing too. He sat on the table again and turned to Clint, “He’s my best friend Scott, he will cook for us” He explained still lightly laughing.
After a couple of minutes Scott stepped outside wearing only his black shorts and his cheeks deep red. Stiles smiled playing innocent, “I´m sorry buddy, this is Clint” He whispered introducing them. Clint smiled at the man with empathy before clapping his back, “Nice to meet you man, sorry for laughing” Clint said honestly.
Scott was only able to shake his head, “Too early for this shit” He mumbled rubbing his eyes, “Nice to meet you too” He added waving his hand. Stiles tapped him in the shoulder, “Can you please, please prepare breakfast?” Stiles asked batting his eyelashes, brightly smiling. Scott pushed him away and sighed, “Anyone else ask me and I´ll say yes”
After Scott finally finished serving breakfast and a lot of it, he was used to cook for werewolves, Tony decided it was the best time to announced the gala. But he noticed someone was missing, he frowned, “Where is Bruce?” He asked cutting a piece of bread. Clint hummed with food on his mouth, “He left with Nat, don’t know what for, you all know how she is” He mumbled more entertained in his breakfast.
Tony nodded, “Well guys, guess what” Tony asked with false happiness waving his eyebrows. Stiles let out his breath and rolled his eyes, he had forgotten about the gala thing, he twisted his mouth and let his brother carry on.
“Gala time!” He exclaimed waving his hands. Everyone, even Scott, stared at him with laziness, it seemed his excitement had left him. Tony shrugged, “You know its to raise funds guys, what can I say” He mumbled pushing his empty plate away. Clint shook his head, “I hate those things, they´re extremely boring” He mumbled.
Scott hummed playing with his food, “Cmon it can’t be that bad” He exclaimed trying to cheer everyone up, even himself.
Actually it could be.