Chapter Text
Harry carried AJ through to the nursery attached to their bedroom in the Malibu mansion. Their arrival had been timed for just after midnight in an effort to avoid the press and anyone with nefarious interest in them. Both Pepper and Hermione had decided to tell any of their senior managers and board members who might ask that Tony and Harry were flying back from London to New York City in order to mislead everyone. Members of the task force were in position to observe anyone who might appear at the airport.
Happy had met them at the private strip to drive them to the house, where Hermione, Pepper, and Rhodey were waiting to greet them. Pepper was particularly smug, having correctly guessed AJ's birth date and won the betting pool. After some reflection and discussion, he and Tony had decided to ask both couples to stand as godparents and had both changed their wills to reflect the addition of their son, as well as how their assets would be divided. They had detailed their wishes for their son and any other children they might have, registered the wills in both the Magical and no-maj world, in both the UK and the US.
Neither could tolerate the idea of Aiden having a childhood like they had expeieinced and took every precaution to prevent that from happening.
The occupancy date for the tower had been pushed back another month as Tony wanted the Arc Reactor installed in the basement before they moved in. The goblins were in the process of creating the necessary space under the parking garage. At Harry's direction, they were also building a warding scheme which would protect both the building, and the people working or living inside. There would be wards preventing anyone with the intent to harm anyone within the tower from entering, among other protections.
Hermione was shouldering the majority of the responsibilities for PBC, Potter Pharm, and Peverell Tech. She worked closely with Pepper on SP MagTech, whose sales had skyrocketed after the magic resistant products were introduced to the wixen population in America and the UK. Stark Industries had smoothly transitioned past making weapons and diversified into mainstream communications tech, developing uses for repulsor tech, expanding the medical division, and body armor for the military. Tony had drawn up preliminary specs for building larger engines based on repulsor technology, primarily for the airplane he was designing. He'd forward it to R&D for development and testing.
Harry had taken over Tony's home office for his own work. He was thankful Aiden was good natured and allowed him to work through his accumulating emails for at least a portion of the afternoon. He had cast a Silencing Spell on both the office and their bedroom, so any sound from the workshop or the living room wouldn't bother the baby. He established a routine, something Andromeda had insisted they do, and tried to follow it as closely as possible, despite his husband's best efforts. Tony would pout if he came up to see AJ and the baby was already asleep, but soon learned not to invoke Harry's wrath by waking AJ up.
Actually, Harry was both amazed by and proud of Tony and the way he'd welcomed the chaos of an infant into their lives. While Elka generally took care of the nappy changes, which both men were immensely thankful for, Tony loved to give Aiden his bath. It wasn't unusual for Harry to stand in the doorway to the nursery bathroom and listen to Tony tell their son about the latest upgrade to his armor or how he'd developed the correct coding for JARVIS while at MIT. The baby seemed to listen with all his attention as his Daddy spoke, and Harry smiled as he watched them.
While Harry was delighted when it was confirmed his son had inherited his and Lily's green eyes, however, in every other way, his face was almost identical to Tony. His dark wavy hair was soft and the same color as his father, with the Stark nose and chin, and when he was hungry, it was obvious he'd inherited Tony's impatience. Harry loved to see the changes in his baby boy and both his fathers spent time watching their son grow more aware of his surroundings each day.
The meeting of the task force they'd gathered hadn't provided much additional information, Stane was lying low and there hadn't been any recent sightings of him since the two low-level Death Eaters had been caught in Hyde Park. Barton reported Director Fury was quietly weeding Hydra faithful out of SHIELD, utilizing Romanov and another senior agent named Phil. The abandoned SI warehouse in up-state New York had seen the most nefarious activity recently. It now sported simple wards, along with Notice-Me-Not spells and Muggle Repelling charms cast on the building. The magical SP MagTech cameras the MACUSA Aurors had placed were still able to record activity, with the runic array Harry had created etched into the warehouse foundation. Thanks to the runes, they would even be able to find the building if someone cast a Fidelius Charm on it.
The protective rune jewelry had been a hit with the no-maj and first-generation magicals. Harry was able to add an old Norse rune which allowed family members without magic to actually see magical areas. The Iron Man armor was a continued challenge to protect. Harry had found a way to infuse protective magic into the diamond tipped etching tool he used to etch runes on the underside of the armor and should protect Tony from most hexes and jinxes. Harry had duplicated the runes on the underside of Rhodey's new armor, the first which had Starkanium included in the alloy. Tests had proven the alloy more durable and stronger than the gold titanium alloy Tony had been using to make his armor.
It was just a question of being able to produce large quantities of the metal in a timely fashion. A problem that Tony had been working on. He'd written a paper on the new element and registered it with the Patent office, in the hopes that someone reading it would come forward with an easier way to produce large quantities of the material. Even the goblins were working on a solution, as they were extremely interested in the new metal.
The ten weeks they had set aside to bond with their son had flown by, with just the three of them in the house, and occasional visits from Happy, Pepper, Hermione, and Rhodey. Tony had also used the time to upgrade his latest rendition of the suit and complete the armor for Rhodey. The Stark Expo, which both Pepper and Hermione were working on, was set to open in seven months. Tony was planning on doing the opening with a bang, which would include introducing Rhodey and War Machine. Consequently, that meant teaching his best friend how to fly, something that had Tony excited. Harry had rolled his eyes at both of them as he watched them practice in the sky over the ocean.
Hermione had asked Harry to accompany her on the final inspection of the new SP Tech factory in New York in mid-October. As soon as they gave the word, trained employees would immediately start production on the upgraded magic-resistant electronics for larger computer systems and military grade communications systems. Both the Auror Corp and the military contacts were interested in systems which would work without interference in areas with high ambient magic.
With Anthony airborne teaching Rhodey how to maneuver in his new War Machine armor, Harry tucked AJ into the sling across his chest and made sure he had what he needed in his moleskin bag. Elka Apparated them to the New York site, house-elf magic easier on the baby than other types of magical transportation. Hermione was waiting for them in the receiving area of the factory and immediately reached for AJ. Rolling his eyes, he slid the sleeping infant out of the sling and passed him to her. Harry knew they'd be there longer than planned as he could see a folder on the desk, labeled Potter Parm, likely the final plans for the expansion of the Potter Pharm factory. The new mundane line of ointments, especially the ones for burns and bruises, had flown off the shelves since it had been introduced that spring. On the wizarding side, the renewed interest in male pregnancy, thanks to Harry, had increased the demand for the small batches of medical supplies geared for expectant men, including potions for common pregnancy ailments.
"Are they ready for the inspection?" he asked, looking around.
Hermione didn't even look up from where she was rocking AJ back and forth, talking in a sing-song voice. "We're waiting for the representative of the Building Department to arrive."
Nodding, Harry looked behind him, towards where he remembered they had put in restrooms. "I'm going to run to the loo and be right back, then."
Not waiting for Hermione to acknowledge him, Harry walked around a corner and into the men's restroom. Quickly taking care of his needs, Harry washed his hands and was reaching for a paper towel when his muscles spasmed and locked, even his eyes seemed locked open. He could feel himself falling and hit his head on the sink as he crumpled to the floor, everything going black.
When Harry awoke, he found himself physically bound to a stiff metal chair set in the middle of a huge warehouse. His muscles were still spasming and Harry knew he'd just come out of whatever that had been. It wasn't magical, he knew, as he'd not felt any spell or jinx. Without moving a muscle, Harry took in what he could see and feel of the space around him.
Harry!
Harry could feel the panic in Tony. I was taken, Tony – used something on me, non-magical, but all my muscles froze. Thank Merlin, Hermione has Aiden, I don't think he'd—
Where are you?
Harry took the chance to glance around, trying to send the image through to Tony. Huge warehouse and I can feel multiple layers of magic over the area, one to dampen magic, I think--
"Ah, the boytoy awakens!" a familiar voice drawled behind him.
Fuck! Tony, it's Stane!"
"Crucio!"
Harry's body exploded in pain, and he gritted his teeth against the scream trying to tear its way out of his throat. The agony went on for what seemed like forever, but Harry was able to compartmentalize it, shove it into a box and close the lid. The curse was lifted and Harry felt his whole body sag against the restraints, his eyes closed like he'd passed out. There was the sound of flesh hitting flesh.
"Idiot! I told you to just give him a taste, not to fry his brain!" Stane's voice was still oily and condescending.
"Do him good to feel pain!"
Harry didn't recognize the new voice but could tell he was standing next to him.
"Get the fuck away from him until he's conscious again!" Stane ordered. "I need him awake to make the video! And if you disobey orders again, I'll kill you myself!"
"It would have been easier if that little prick you planted at the factory had gotten the kid the first time!"
The arguing continued as the voices moved away, yet Harry knew he wasn't alone. He extended his senses, feeling a magical signature about ten feet to his right. The main entrance must be just beyond the person—
Gorgeous, are you in the abandoned warehouse?"
"Rowle, take Rumlow and go get the kid. I don't care who you have to kill to do it!"
Yes, I think so – Tony, Stane just ordered one of the HYDRA goons to go with a Death Eater to get AJ!
Easy, my heart, the baby and Hermione are safe, as are Happy and Pepper. Les has your invisibility cloak and when we breach the wards, he'll Apparate to your side and get you out.
I'm shackled to a metal chair in the middle of the main warehouse.
A punch to the side of Harry's face slammed his head to the side and Harry snapped back, fixing his eyes on Obadiah Stane, loathing on his face. The bastard was holding a small device in his hand, flipping it around, end to end.
"How'd you like the Sonic Taser, slut?" Stane laughed at Harry's stoic look. "Another of those brilliant devices Tony invented but refused to market." Stane sneered. "The whiny little shit thought them too brutal to manufacture for even the military or law enforcement. Ordered them destroyed, but I managed to snag one before that happened."
Stane fingered the device lovingly and it was all Harry could do not to shudder at the sick delight on the man's face.
"Perhaps I should use this and then let some of these Dark wizards have their way with you," Stane suggested, sneering when there were jeers of agreement from behind Harry. "Stillwell, set up the video – I'm sure the Secretary, as well as Tony, would like to watch as his lordship is repeatedly violated. Let him learn what it means to be fucked by real men!"
A bald man with glasses, dressed in a cheap suit, moved forward and set a small video camera on a tripod, before hurrying away, never once looking at Harry. Lifting his chin as Stane continued to monologue his disdain for his godson, as well as Howard and SHIELD. Admitting he was a HYDRA plant who had wormed his way into the older Stane's good graces, until he was brought onboard as Howard's business partner. Out of the periphery of his vision, Harry could see a group of people gathering around them. The individuals to the right were dressed in a combination of robes and no-maj clothing, with those to the left in suits and tactical gear – all Stane's supporters, he reasoned.
As Stane nattered on about his own wonderous achievements on behalf of HYDRA, (Harry wondered if all megalomaniacs had this habit), and how he was going to thoroughly destroy Tony. It became apparent to Harry that Stane was going to demand the miniaturized arc reactor technology in exchange for Harry. Just as Harry opened his mouth to snark at Stane, a gesture from the man had Harry hit with a body bind and the Cruciatus Curse.
There was nothing Harry could do but ride it out, yet at the same time he could feel his magic swirl around him, growing in power as the curse continued. Harry could feel it surge against the magic dampening ward and destroy it with a pulse. The world grayed out and his vision shrank until all Harry could see was Stane's maniacal grin. Just as his magic exploded out of him, Harry watched as Stane was thrown by the force, sailing backward through the air. As he arched upward, Harry saw an arrow hit him mid-sternum, several bullets strike him in the abdomen, a repulsor blast to the groin, and the Killing Curse center punch his chest. His last thought before he lost consciousness was to hope the bastard had suffered.
Harry drifted up through layers of consciousness, somehow knowing he was safe wherever he was. As he became more aware, Harry could feel the muscle twitches indicative of exposure to the Cruciatus Curse, as well as general fatigue and soreness. There was a weight on his chest and one arm was immobilized. Struggling to open his heavy eyelids, Harry felt a hand card through his hair, his bond with Anthony vibrating with love and relief.
"That's it, gorgeous, I've got you," Tony crooned, lightly scratching Harry's scalp. "Witch doctor says you need to drink one of those absolutely disgusting, life-affirming potions to make you feel better."
"Anthony?" Harry whispered, willing his eyes open to see his husband's pale face. "AJ?"
"Sprawled across your chest, beloved," Tony answered, wrapping an arm around Harry's shoulders, and easing him up a little, their son undisturbed, before handing him a potion vial. "Drink!"
Grimacing, Harry threw the potion back and swallowed with a shudder at the taste. He gratefully took a drink from the water bottle Tony handed him. Feeling the potion immediately spread out from his stomach, Harry sighed with relief as the twitching in his muscles stopped and the pounding in his head eased.
"How do you feel?" Tony asked as he pressed a kiss to Harry's temple.
"A bit beat-up." Harry drawled, leaning into Tony's touch. "But actually, better than I have a right to," he admitted. "Les got me out?"
"Yes, popped you right here where Andromeda was waiting."
Harry nodded, giving a silent thanks as he felt his son's warm breath against his throat. "It could have been so much worse."
"JARVIS, is everyone else still asleep?" Tony asked his AI, taking a deep breath.
"Yes, Sir. There is, however, a message from Auror Proudfoot. She wanted me to pass on that the task force is overseeing the clean-up at the site. Furthermore, Senator Stern and his rabid general have both been taken into custody."
"Thank you, J." Tony acknowledged.
Harry settled back against the pillows, frowning as he looked around. The lights were still low and the windows dark. "Where are we?"
"In the tower," Tony responded, seating himself on the edge of the bed. "JARVIS, increase the lights by a third."
"Yes, Sir."
As the lights came up, Harry could see the light gray shade of the walls and doors, with the touches of blue and green accents they had chosen. The windows lightened gradually, showing Harry it was probably early morning. AJ was nestled against his neck, sleeping peacefully with one hand gripping Harry's soft sleep shirt.
"How long have I been out?"
"Since yesterday afternoon." Tony leaned in and kissed him softly. "You scared the crap out of me, Harry."
Giving him an indignant look, Harry whispered harshly. "It certainly wasn't my choice, Anthony!"
Grimacing, Tony grabbed Harry's free hand in both of his. "I didn't mean it like that, gorgeous!" he said hastily. "I just meant, well, I don't know if I could live if something happened to you."
Something eased in Harry as he looked into Tony's wide eyes, and he gave him a small smile. "I love you more than life, too. I also know you're strong, Anthony, and I have to believe you would take care of our son if anything happened to me."
Tony rearranged them so Harry leaned against his side and put a hand on AJ's back. "I guess that means we both have to make sure we stick around for a long time."
Harry nodded as he laid his head against his husband's shoulder. "What happened at the warehouse?"
"The curse breakers had succeeded in tearing down the protective fields and everyone from the task force stormed the warehouse. Just as we got through, your magic reacted and sent the assholes flying. It was easy enough after that for the task force to over-power both the Death Eater thugs and the HYDRA followers. While there were a few minor injuries, there were only two fatalities, Stane and one of the HYDRA soldiers, Rumlow."
"Lizzy's using Veritaserum on all of them?"
Smirking, Tony nodded. "All of them spilling their guts about their involvement with Stane and HYDRA. Seems the wizards were actually using Stane and his people to get to you – something about a ritual to bring back Riddle."
"Sounds about right, fucking bastards can't help themselves but look down on no-majs as little more than trained monkeys." Harry sneered. "What about the HYDRA supporters?"
Tony sighed and rubbed a hand across his eyes. "They're even more arrogant than the Death Eaters. Stillwell and Pierce both died by biting down on cyanide capsules embedded in a tooth half-way through their interrogations." He shook his head. "The Aurors took care of that problem by Summoning all the remaining capsules, teeth and all in some cases. HYDRA had infiltrated every aspect of SHIELD and even into high positions in the American government."
"For fucks sake!" Harry hissed. "I thought Fury was intelligent! How could he not know?"
Shaking his head, Tony met his eyes with an embarrassed expression. "The infestation goes back to Howard, Aunt Peggy, and Colonel Philips when they formed SHIELD after the war. Apparently, they actively recruited known Nazi and HYDRA scientists to work for the US government, in leu of serving time in prison. They may have kept an eye on them for a while, but when they started to make headway in designing and building rockets and munitions, oversight was stopped," he signed. "Zola and Howard never stopped trying to replicate the Super Soldier serum, according to his own notes, which Pierce still had in his possession."
"Merlin!" Harry breathed. "Tell me there aren't any evil Super Soldiers stashed somewhere!"
From the look on Tony's face, Harry knew he'd hit a nerve.
"I wish I could, but what we have found points to exactly that," Tony whispered, his arm tightening around Harry. "I went back thought Howard's SHIELD notes and, if you read between the lines, they suggest Howard even tested a version of the serum on me when I was a teenager."
"Bastard!" Unmitigated rage arose in Harry, and he felt his magic swirl. "How do we check to see if it's true?"
"I'll work on it, but whatever version he gave me apparently didn't have the desired effect and after I went to MIT, he must have deemed it too risky to try again."
Reigning in his magic, Harry let the information settle into his brain for a moment, before having an epiphany. "Bloody hell!"
"What?" Tony asked, eyebrow raised.
Your father had to have given you some version of the Super Soldier serum, love," he explained hesitantly. "Otherwise, you would have died in that Afghani cave."
Tilting his head, Tony gave him a considering look. "Because I should have died when they did open-heart surgery in a cave without anesthesia."
"Exactly," Harry confirmed. "Whatever Howard gave you, enhanced your healing factor which would explain how you survived some of your more death-defying adventures."
"Maybe," Tony muttered, closing his eyes. "It's something I will worry about later. Right now, I'd just like to enjoy the feeling of normalcy—"
Harry coughed.
"Well, normal for us, gorgeous. Or at least a period of not having to actively worry about Stane or someone else trying to kill us. I really think we've earned a bit of a break."
"I completely agree." Sighing, Harry closed his eyes, content to just relax.
Leaning against Tony, Harry felt the love flowing through their bond and fully relaxed. If they were in the Tower, it meant the house-elves had moved everything in for them. Having a bit of down time to settle in and arrange their new home to be a comfortable family home would be amazing. He knew there were business duties they would both need to take care of, as well as an impending wedding to help plan for Rhodey and Hermione. Harry decided he needed to reward the house-elves for all their work and loyalty, it was just figuring out how to do that without offending them.
Harry was drawn from his thoughts as the baby began to stretch and he tightened his left arm, which had been anchoring AJ. Tony, who appeared to have dozed off against him, shot up as their son announced he was hungry with a loud wail. Elka appeared next to the bed, waiting as Harry settled AJ and handed him over.
"Come on, Anthony, crawl under the covers and I'll see to Mr. Impatient. We'll come back to nap when we are done."
His husband didn't wait to be told twice, immediately stripping and sliding into bed.
Harry rolled his eyes as he shuffled over to where a pair of sweatpants were drapped over a chair and pulled them on. Padding out of the room, Harry paused for a moment to drink in the view before heading down the stairs to the kitchen. Although they had made several trips to the penthouse during the last phases of construction, Harry was amazed at how beautifully all the elements had come together. Pulling open the door to the restaurant grade refrigerator, he was delighted that it was already stocked, with several bottles made up. Heating the milk up slowly with a diffused heating charm, Harry took AJ when Elka brought him, nappy changed and in a fresh onesie, he sat down in front of the fireplace to feed him.
The quiet hominess of the space seemed to welcome them.
Harry bounced back quickly from his kidnapping; the aftereffects of the torture curse had been mitigated by forcing down daily doses of the potion created by Severus Snape during the second Blood War. A faint smile curved at the thought of the acid-tongued man, who despite loathing Harry, but had done everything to protect him. Tony had continued to hover over him until Harry had shooed him off to set up his laboratory – there might have been a threat of hexing involved.
Settling into the penthouse had been smooth, with the house-elves thrilled to have more than just the Malibu mansion to take care of. Pepper and Happy were on the floor below them with Rhodey and Hermione on the next one down. There were several other residential floors for guests and Teddy had his own room on Tony and Harry's floor. The ten floors below those were all Research and Development, including Tony's main workshop. He also had a highly secured lab at the far end of their floor, with extra shielding and a wall of windows which were retractable and big enough for the Iron Man armor.
After the effect the Sonic Taser had on Harry and Les, both Tony and Hermione were working on some type of protection for the building in order to prevent another such attack. Electromagnetic Pulses were also a concern, but the magical shielding had proved to be moderately effective in protecting the electronics, including JARVIS. The goblins had just perfected their transparent stone method, and once that was installed, the Tower should be impenetrable and safe for both their family as well as the thousands of SI employees working inside it.
All of them rotated their time between New York and Malibu, especially Pepper and Hermione, who were managing the majority of the administrative duties for both sets of companies. Harry and Tony rarely appeared together during these months, agreeing that one of them should be with AJ, at least until he was older. They did a few date nights, usually after the baby was down for the night, but neither of them wanted him to wake up alone at night. They were both there the first time AJ rolled over on to his back and laughed at Tony playing peek-a-boo.
Tony had completed his missions against the Ten Rings and targeted several other groups that the committee with oversight had found with SI weapons. He'd flown with Rhodey to help with a mid-flight helicopter crash at a base in Afghanistan in October and they'd been requested to assist in rescuing victims of Hurricane Ida in November. While the Stane problem had finally been eradicated, HYDRA had infiltrated into SHIELD, and the supremacists – magical and mundane – were still an issue.
The warehouse upstate had turned out to have caches of Stark weapons, scientific workstations, and components for what appeared to be Stane's attempt to recreate the Mark I suit. Even more chilling, were copies of Howard Stark's notes on the serum and the arc reactor found on separate workstations, along with evidence of experimentation on both projects. The members of the task force took charge of the investigation, with Dr. Hank McCoy and Lizzy Proudfoot directing the effort. No one wanted it in the hands of SHIELD or any other agency with ulterior motives. Tony and Harry stayed away from the inquiry, leaving it in the trusted hands of Rhodey, who acted on their behave as liaison.
Keeping themselves busy, both Harry and Tony launched into planning the Stark Expo 2010 to be held in Flushing, where the 1974 Expo had been held. Invitations went out to major innovators in both the no-maj and magical communities. They planned a section for young inventors to display their projects, workshops for children and college students, and presentations on robotics by Tony himself. Stark Industries, PBC, and Potter Pharm were the chief sponsors and had already announced they were actively looking for people who were interested in creating new inventions for the future, complete with grant money to get them started.
Time had seemed to fly by, in Harry's opinion, as he concentrated on helping the house-elves decorate the penthouse for their first Christmas in New York City. He'd had to countermand Tony's instructions of 'lots and lots of red and gold!'. Fat wet snowflakes had started to fall just after noon and were now piling up on the balcony. The landing pad for the Iron Man armor was heated and clear, ready for Tony's homecoming as he'd spent the last few days in California assisting Rhodey and the military with a new project.
He and Tony had sent Pepper and Happy on a two-week vacation in the Bahamas for Christmas, wanting to give poor Pepper a break. Rhodey and Hermione were spending the week before Christmas with them and then going to spend the rest of the hols with Rhodey's family. Glad that the galas and parties were over until New Years Eve, Harry and Tony were hosting a Christmas Eve dinner for their closest allies. Christmas would just be family, including the house-elves, as was an old Yule tradition. The combined SI and PBC gala was being held in the newly installed ballroom on the 77th and 78th floors. Tony, Hermione, and Sally had conspired to create the soaring, lavishly appointed space, which turned out surprisingly elegant instead of ostentatious, considering his husband involvement.
Arms slid around his waist from behind and familiar lips nibbled at the base of his neck.
"Looks lovely, gorgeous," Tony muttered, his whiskers tickling Harry.
Harry turned in his arms and greeted him with an enthusiastic kiss. "I didn't hear you come in, love."
"Liquid stone windows are effective soundproofers," Tony pulled him flush against him, chilled fingers sliding underneath Harry's shirt.
"That's not a real word!" Harry spun away with a grin, slapping at the offending hand.
Tony pouted, rubbing his hands together. "Is my mini-me in bed already?"
Cocking his head, Harry gave him a look. "Anthony, it's half-past eleven."
"Oooh, it's daddies time!" Tony exclaimed, with an exaggerated leer.
"Food first, as I'm sure you didn't stop on the way home to eat." He gave Tony a knowing look. "Into the kitchen, Mr. Stark." Harry said with a shooing motion of his hands.
Ignoring his husband's attempts to protest, Harry pointed to a seat at the island and reheated a plate of pasta. He poured them each a glass of red wine and sat with Tony as he ate. Taking a moment to check his mental to-do list, Harry felt like they were just about ready for Christmas.
"JARVIS? Has Anthony finished his Christmas shopping?"
Tony started to choke on his sip of wine, looking up at Harry with wide eyes.
"I believe Sir has completed approximately 75% of his mandatory shopping, Harry."
"It's a good thing tomorrow is the 23rd and he'll have a bit more time to find the rest of what he needs," Harry gave him a pointed look.
"I only have a couple more things to get, magic man!" Tony slurped his last noodle and took the bowl to the sink.
Harry carried the empty wine glasses in. "Well then, I suppose I should take you to bed—"
Tony grinned and wrapped an arm around his waist. "I thought you'd never ask!" And practically carried him to their bedroom.
The dinner party on Christmas Eve was low-key, with some of the task force members attending, including Charles Xavier, Hank McCoy, Lizzy Proudfoot, Kingsley, and, surprisingly, Clint Barton and his wife. Hermione and Andromeda had helped select the menu and Harry had chosen the decorations. Tony was the gracious host, circulating the room, a glass of apple juice in his hand most of the time. He still had the occasional glass of wine or scotch since AJ had been born, but he told Harry he liked himself better sober and Harry was proud of him.
Harry found a kindred spirit in Laura Barton, who had two children of her own, a boy, six, and a girl, five. Tiptoeing with her into AJ's room, Harry tried not to preen as she quietly cooed over the sleeping baby. Making their way back down the stairs, Harry grinned when he saw Tony had the nursery feed up on his Starkphone, with half of their guests gathered around him. He shook his head as the head of the catering service, a Squib whose company had been vetted by both Happy and Lizzy Proudfoot, got his attention and signaled that dinner was ready.
Tony had seen the signal and slid his phone in his jacket pocket, clapping his hands. "All right, everyone, dinner's ready!"
The table had been set up along the wall of windows, near the alcove which held the grand piano. Guests have a choice between Guinness beef stew with root vegetables and an herb roasted chicken with beets and Brussel sprouts. Fresh crusty bread, twice-baked potatoes, crispy salad, with pumpkin pastes and chocolate Yule log cake for dessert. Simple but hearty food for a snowy evening with friends. The conversation was light and lively, and Harry let it flow around him as he enjoyed his stew. He sat at one end of the long table, Tony at the other, their bond flowing with quiet happiness as they watched their friends interact.
Both were watching the flow of wine, the only alcoholic drink served for the party. Tony had described some of the drunken soirees he'd thrown in the past and they'd decided against letting it happen again. Everyone had been picked up or Portkeyed to the Tower and would return to wherever they were staying after dinner. Neither wanted anyone driving drunk and getting hurt or worse on Christmas Eve.
Coffee and hot chocolate are on offer as after dinner drinks while everyone chatted around the dinner table. Harry excused himself, along with Hermione, leaving Tony to thank everyone for coming.
"Where did you put the bags?" Hermione asked as she followed Harry to a spare bedroom.
"In here," Harry answered, pushing open the door, several boxes packed with large gifts bags sitting on the floor.
"Harry! These are amazing!" Hermione exclaimed, poking into a couple of the bags. "These are certainly over the top!"
"Blame Pepper!" Harry deflected with a grin. "She thoroughly enjoyed herself shopping for everyone!"
"I can see that!"
Hermione smiled widely as she helped distribute the bags to the guests as they left. There were many hugs and well wishes exchanged as everyone being driven left. Those leaving by Portkey or Apparation left next after even more hugs and kisses. Harry felt exhausted by the time he collapsed onto the couch in front of the fireplace. Tony plopped down beside him several minutes later, having made sure the penthouse was secure and all the protective fields in place.
"Ugh! JARVIS, lights to 30%, please."
"Yes, Sir."
The overhead lights dimmed, the red and gold lights on the tree shining warmly against the darkness of the night sky. The sparse lights of the surrounding buildings just accented the twinkling lights on the tree. Leaning against Tony, Harry sighed contently as he undid his tie.
"That seemed like a success," Tony murmured as he kissed behind Harry's ear. "My parties in the past usually ended with naked bodies everywhere."
"Hmmm," Harry groaned as he tilted his head to give his husband more access. "I'm not much for orgies, Anthony. I'm more into solo performances."
"Well, it is still early…" Tony teased his throat with the tip of his tongue.
Harry turned his head and kissed Tony enthusiastically. "It is – and if we hurry, we might be able to –"
Tony was on his feet and pulling Harry towards their room before he could finish. If there was one thing his husband knew how to do, it was throwing an excellent private afterparty!
Christmas morning came early, and Harry stifled a groan as he pulled himself out of Tony's arms. They'd been up later than they should have, to be getting up when it was still dark outside. Taking care of his needs and a quick shower, Harry pulled on a pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt. He silently thanked Sally for her forethought as he turned on the coffee machine in the bar area of their sitting room, before making his way to the nursery.
AJ was already awake and had rolled himself over, his newest skill. Scooping him up, Harry changed him and dressed the baby in one of the numerous Christmas outfits his assorted aunts and uncles had gifted him.
"Happy Christmas, little one," Harry whispered, kissing the top of his son's head as he carried him back through to their bedroom. "Now, I need your help in getting your Daddy up."
He carefully laid AJ on their bed, surrounding him with pillows, including the one he stole from under Tony's head. "Anthony, it's time to get up."
A grumble was heard from the general direction of the blanket pile. AJ squealed, his arms and legs moving around.
"Don't roll over on the baby, please, and I'll get you a cup of coffee."
Harry watched as an arm fought its way out of the tangled bedding and groped around until it found AJ's leg. The hand latching onto the small foot gave AJ cause to squeal again, and Tony's head lifted clear of the blanket, smiling blurry eyed at the baby.
Two cups of coffee later, Tony was showered and seated at the kitchen counter feeding AJ. Harry smiled at them as he whipped up the eggs for the third frittata. The other two frittatas were baking, bacon was frying on the large griddle, and the muffins Harry had baked in batches over the past few days were arranged in baskets. Tony had already claimed two of the blueberry muffins, which sat on a plate under a warming spell, waiting for AJ to finish his bottle.
"Sally!" Harry called, sliding the frittata into the oven. "Please tell the house-elves breakfast will be ready in ten minutes."
Andromeda had introduced Harry to Yule and its traditions when Teddy was a baby. While he'd never participated in many of them, the tradition of giving house-elves Boxing Day off was something he'd done with Kreacher when they all lived at Grimmauld Place. This year, his gratitude for the work the house-elves had done for his family knew no bounds and Harry was determined to treat them to the traditional Yule breakfast and gifts. While he'd not gotten Sally to agree that all of them should be given the same day off, she had agreed half of them would take Christmas Eve off and the other half would take Christmas off. All had agreed to Harry cooking and serving them breakfast this morning, along with taking the gifts Tony and Harry had gotten them.
Les and Bissy had been obstinate about taking any time off as they were the two chief protectors of the family but acquiesced when Harry promised not to leave the Tower either day. Les had been with Tony yesterday and Bissy would watch over them today.
The dining table had been shortened for today's smaller, more intimate family celebration, and a smaller elf-high table set up next to it. Both tables were already set, with a runner of woven holly and oak leaves down the middle. On the house-elves' table, there were two small silk bags (red and gold, of course) next to each plate, one containing two Galleons, the most Sally would agree to, and the other full of the sweets each elf liked best. Knowing house-elves didn't like to dine among their humans, Harry set one of the frittatas on the table with muffins and the donuts which were a delicacy for them. He then ushered Tony and AJ back to their bedroom, leaving Sally to make sure the elves enjoyed their breakfast.
An hour later, Harry carried AJ out to the living room, setting the baby into his new bouncer where his son could watch him. Using a bit of wandless magic, Harry Banished the small table and chairs back to their storeroom, having levitated the dirty dishes into the sink. He made quick work of the clean-up, finishing by the time Tony joined him, dressed in jeans and a red Christmas sweater. Scooping AJ out of his bouncer, Tony carried the baby over to the living room and laid him on his special blanket.
Harry smoothed a hand down his green sweater as JARVIS announced Hermione and Rhodey were on their way up. Greeting them at the elevator, Harry hugged Hermione before turning to Rhodey, who stood awkwardly as Harry hugged him.
"Merry Christmas, Platypus and Witchy Woman!" Tony called from where he was playing with Aiden.
Rhodey patted Tony's head as he lowered himself to the floor next to Tony and the two were immediately lost in conversation, Harry, his arm around Hermione, led her over to the tall windows looking out at the city. The snow had stopped, and the sun glinted off the surface of the snow spread over the cityscape, creating a beautiful scene. Laying his head against his best friend's, Harry took a deep breath as he thought about the changes they had both undergone in the past eighteen months. Hermione cuddled closer.
"You're happy?" Hermione asked quietly.
"Immensely," Harry answered, "I can't believe the difference in the person I was that June when I left Grimmauld Place and who I've become. I felt so adrift then. You had the company well in hand and I just felt extraneous, disconnected. And then I met Anthony."
"Yes, your simple mechanic," the grin apparent in her voice.
"Like you found James."
"Indeed," Hermione said, sounding eerily like Severus Snape in that moment.
"We found home."
Hermione turned in his arms and hugged him tight. "We've found the rest of our family, love. Sometimes I get scared at how happy I am, afraid I'll wake up and it all would have been a dream."
Nodding his head, Harry stood for several minutes, savoring the closeness. "Happy Christmas, big sister!"
"Happy Christmas, brother."
"Should I be jealous that your fiancé is groping my husband, Honey Bear?"
Harry snorted, releasing Hermione to turn towards Tony. "Don't be ridiculous, Anthony – Rhodey is so much more my type!"
"Hey!"
"Sir, Healer Tonks and Master Teddy are on their way up."
"Thanks, JARVIS!" Tony replied as he got to his feet, leaving a wide-eyed Rhodes to watch AJ.
Harry stepped towards the elevator, pausing only to let Tony wrap an arm around his waist. They greeted Teddy by scooping him up between them and kissing his face repeatedly. Teddy giggled before wiggling down to find AJ. Andromeda kissed each of them on the cheeks, before linking her arms with each of them. The food was on the table and AJ was passed between the adults as everyone ate their Christmas brunch. Presents were next, and although they had all agreed on small personal gifts, Tony had channeled Father Christmas for Teddy. Based on the boy's wish list, Tony had made him a simple, magic-resistant smart phone which would allow him to call three preprogramed numbers only, allowed either Andromeda or Tony to turn on the phone's camera in the event of an emergency, or send out an alert beacon if anything happened to Teddy. The phone, along with a new broom from both of them and a selection of American graphic tee-shirts were Teddy's haul.
AJ had also gotten a number of gifts, clothes, soft toys, and a baby jumper, which Tony side eyed. Harry rolled his eyes – how did you improve on a baby jumper? Every other adult in the room hid a knowing smile. AJ was more interested in the bright colored blouse Hermione was wearing than anything else, while Teddy roped Tony and Rhodey into helping him with his new phone.
Andromeda helped him put the finishing touches on Christmas dinner, which was served early so Rhodey and Hermione could eat with them before they left. They, like Happy and Pepper, would be back in time for the New Year's Eve Gala, which fell this year on a Sunday night. The baked ham turned out delicious, as did the scalloped potatoes, candied carrots, and the two different types of pies Harry had put together that morning. It was a low-key but pleasant meal, with AJ sleeping through it.
Seeing their guests out, Andromeda and Teddy headed back to London for Boxing Day with the Weasley Clan, Harry let out a deep sigh. As much as he loved their friends and extended family, Harry was ready for some time with just their little family. The kitchen clean-up was accomplished quickly, leaving the rest of the day for he and Tony to spend together with their son. Snow began to fall again just as the sun set, the men cuddling on the couch in front of the fire. Harry had given in when Tony got restless, handing him his tablet and then amused himself as his husband used holographic images to tear down and reinvent the baby jumper. Plastic covered steel replaced the chains to hand the chair in a doorway, durable latex covered fabric replaced the cloth seat and straps.
"See, gorgeous! That's a safer and more attractive jumper for little bit!" Tony proclaimed, waving a hand at the rotating hologram.
"Yes, dear," Harry retorted, feeding said baby. "Did you have to change the colors to red and gold?"
The New Years Eve Gala was in full swing, the orchestra playing a slow-paced waltz as anyone not dancing circulated among the small tables which lined the dance floor. Three of the four walls of the two-story ballroom were made of the goblins' transparent stone and looked out at the city still dressed in her holiday finery. The snow over Christmas tapered off several days ago, to be replaced with an artic blast of temperatures. Garlands of holly leaves, with their red berries, wrapped around the four columns bracketing the dance floor, intertwined with gold fairy lights. The food had been delicious and the service impeccable. As with their Christmas Eve dinner, several different types of wine were the only alcohol offered in the events – Harry wasn't about to put up with any drunken misbehavior.
Security was high, with each of the guests having been vetted by magical and non-magical agencies, knowing there would be several heads of state, members of European nobility, along with some of the wealthiest people in either world. Tony led Harry around the edge of the dance floor, more swaying to the beat of the music than doing an actual waltz. Harry sighed tiredly, even though the evening had gone without a hitch. He'd worked hard to ensure the night went smoothly, with Tony managing the invitations and the gladhanding.
Rhodey and Hermione danced slowly across the floor, their formal black-tie outfits coordinated, as were Harry and Tony's – Tony in a red waistcoat and Harry's gold, while Hermione was gorgeous in an emerald green gown and Rhodey's waistcoat the same color. Happy and Pepper, who sported a lovely tan and a new engagement ring, were in matching shades of royal blue. Men dressed in classic tuxes and women clad in jewel-toned gowns, most dripping in jewels, all wanting to be seen among the rich and famous.
It was enough to give anyone sane a headache, Harry thought, using every social grace he'd learned from Hermione and Andromeda not to look at his watch again. He ignored the tendril of amusement he felt from Tony as he maneuvered them toward their table. Draco and Astoria, both resplendent in dove gray silk, were already seated, each with a glass of red wine.
"Tired, gorgeous?" Tony whispered in his ear.
Nodding, Harry leaned his head against Tony's for a moment and smiled as Tony kissed his ear. "Just the exhaustion that comes with completing a project."
"You did good, beloved! Everything has been perfect," Tony whispered as they arrived at the table. "I can't wait to ring in the New Year and then spend our first anniversary together."
Harry smiled and leaned in for a kiss, ignoring Draco's snort and Rhodey making gagging noises as he and Hermione joined them. Hermione smacked both sniggering men on the back of their heads.
"Don't be toe-rags, boys."
"Ladies and gentlemen, if you'll return to your tables, we will take a short break to celebrate the dawn of a new decade!" the leader of the orchestra announced as the musicians set the instruments down.
The serving staff circulated through the room with trays of champagne flutes for everyone. Their waiter brought over two flutes of sparkling cider for Harry and Tony, passing out champagne to the rest of the table. Everyone seemed to gravitate towards the dance floor, talking excitedly as they circulated. Tony's arm wrapped around Harry's waist as he, Rhodey, and Happy chatted about the football game tomorrow.
The group counted down the last seconds to the New Year, cheering loudly as they welcomed in 2010. Tony drew Harry to him, wrapping his arms around him as Harry lifted his chin, their lips meeting in a soft kiss. Their companions did much the same as before everyone broke into Auld Lang Syne.
Tony clapped his hands to get everyone's attention, taking the microphone one of the servers brought him.
"Harry and I would like to thank you for coming tonight and for your generous donations. 2009 brought many changes to my life – marriage, fatherhood, and an alter ego. A memorable year and literally a new stage in my life. Now we welcome 2010 – a new year and a new decade! I hope you all find everything good you are searching for – health, love, and success in all your ventures. Goodbye 2009 and join me in welcoming 2010!"
Harry smiled, standing next to Tony as he handed the microphone back. Turning, Harry caught Tony's hand as they said good night to their friends, and head toward the private elevator at the back of the room. They had just reached the doors, which JARVIS had opened for them, when Harry heard their names being called. A glance over his shoulder brought Harry to a stop and spinning, Tony stepped in front of him, moving into a protective stance.
"Harry! Stark!" Clint Barton, in a neat black tux, dragging Agent Coulson, also clad in black tie, by the hand.
"Clint, Agent," Tony greeted them. "I don't remember you on our guest list."
"Happy New Year, gentlemen." Harry said with a eye roll. "Was there something—"
"Can we ride up with you?" Clint all but pushed them into the elevator, Agent Coulson bringing up the rear.
Tony gripped Harry's hand as he took in the look on the two men's faces. "JARVIS, is everything secure in the penthouse?"
"Yes, Sir. Your floor is still on lockdown and little sir is sleeping peacefully."
Reaching up with his free hand, Harry undid the knot in his bowtie and followed Tony out of the elevator. A squeeze of Tony's fingers and Harry dropped his hand to shed his tuxedo jacket, draping it over the back of one of the stools. Tony did the same and stood next to the island as he unbuttoned his cuffs, as he stared at Coulson.
"We intercepted a message—" Coulson began, only to have Clint interrupt.
"One of the suspected Hydra agents received a copy of a message about the activation of an asset – an assassin known as the Winter Soldier."
Tony's shoulders straightened. "The Winter Soldier? I thought he was a legend."
"Who's the target?" Harry asked quietly.
Coulson and Clint looked at each other, before Clint spoke. "We aren't sure. The message was heavily encrypted, and it looked like there were multiple targets, but one of the names may be Harry's birth name."
Harry felt his stomach drop and he closed his eyes in a heavy sigh. Of course his name was on the list.
"I'll send everything I have over to you in the morning, Mr. Stark." Coulson exchanged another look at Barton. "This is one of the agents we have under surveillance for their true loyalties, so SHIELD hasn't even been informed yet."
"I just—"
"We just wanted you to be in the know, as you have resources which can help track this man." Coulson spoke over him.
Tony gave them a nod, walking the two towards the elevator. "Thank you for the warning, we both appreciate it. Agent, I will look over the information tomorrow."
Harry stayed where he was but called out to Barton. "Clint, you still have a room if you need one."
"Thanks, Harry!"
The men disappeared into the elevator and Tony walked back toward him. "JARVIS, Lockdown Protocol, please, only those on the access list can come up."
"Yes, Sir."
Tony wrapped his arms around Harry, tugging him tight to his chest. Lifting his head, Harry kissed him fiercely, sliding his hands beneath Tony's shirt and moving down to cup his arse. He leaned back in the circle of Tony's arms and gave him a sultry smile.
"Even legendary Hydra assassins can't get in this tower, Anthony. Now why don't you show me just how pleased you are to celebrate our anniversary."
Smirking, Tony started walking him backward toward the stairs. "With pleasure, gorgeous."
And Tony did, very thoroughly.