Most of what Steve’s been doing since the snap has been worrisome on many levels. The constant, far away staring, the flashes of the past, the singing... Tony had been sure that the blond was on the edge of a mental breakdown before. And now, with all of his emotions peeled back, he’s worried again that he’s about to lose him into space. Steve could figuratively turn to dust, just standing here. He’s too vulnerable. Too susceptible.

Is this what sex was always like? When he was done going down on someone, is this how he’d always be? Or is this just another facet of grief?

Tony doesn’t know. He raises his hand like Adam to God and, taking one towel to set aside, clasps Steve’s fingers to draw him gently back into bed. He’s not the same man that signed the Accords anymore. And that man is not the same one that carried the missile into space. Tony has evolved to be kinder than before. It’s hopefully something that will help put Steve together again.

Tony draws his fellow Avenger down, half across his own body.

“I don’t want you to go anywhere now. Shit. Should have had you bring the pizza— Know what? Doesn’t matter. Just stay with me, Steve. I mean it. All of you needs to stay with me right now.”