The news on Tony's screen flashed brightly: Stark Industries is hosting a grand party tonight.
He immediately called Alex.
"Hey, did you get an invite to the party?" Tony asked, a playful tone in his voice.
Alex, sitting in his villa, glanced at the screen and picked up."Of course I got one. Where are you?"
Tony replied, "At my villa."
Alex smirked. "Tony Stark doesn't need an invite. If anyone asks, just tell them your brother invited you."
Tony laughed. "Alright, I'll do that."
The Party Begins
By the time Tony arrived, Alex had already greeted a few guests and was moving through the crowd.
Tony scanned the room—and froze. Pepper Potts stood across the hall in a stunning evening gown. He couldn't look away.
Alex, noticing his brother's stare, leaned closer with a teasing grin."So… you love her?"
Without thinking, Tony admitted, "Yes."
Alex chuckled, teasing him."The famous Tony Stark—genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist—afraid to admit he likes someone?"
Tony protested, but Alex shook his head."Relax. I'm serious. Grayfia, Venelana, Albedo, Kushina, Yasaka, Gwen, and Helen all confessed to me. We're lovers. Serious relationships. So go talk to her; I'll wait at the bar."
Tony's eyes widened slightly. Jealousy? Maybe. He didn't answer and simply nodded.
Tony and Pepper on the Terrace
Tony approached Pepper and led her to the terrace. They chatted casually, sipping on drinks she ordered herself. The city lights reflected in her eyes, and Tony felt a rare calm.
Meanwhile, Alex stayed at the bar, watching the scene from afar. He checked on Tony's progress, waiting patiently.
Unexpected Visitor
A woman approached the bar, addressing Alex directly.
"Alexander Lionel Stark?" she asked, smiling politely.
Alex nodded.
"I'm Tristan," she said, taking out a folder of photos. "These are documents and images about weapons in Afghanistan."
Tony, overhearing, was shocked."Alex… did you know about this?"
Alex shook his head. "No. I don't know anything about these deals."
Tristan handed the photos to Tony, who immediately excused himself to speak with Obadiah privately.
Keeping Pepper Calm
Alex turned back to the bar and handed the wine to Pepper, explaining quietly,"Tony had to leave the party. Urgent matters."
Pepper frowned. "What happened?"
Alex gave her a small, reassuring smile."One of the women from Tony's past—Tristan—came with information about weapons in Afghanistan. Tony is talking to Obadiah. That's all you need to know for now."
Pepper nodded, understanding more than Alex said. She took the wine and went back inside, leaving Alex alone at the bar.
Alex watched the party for a moment longer, then quietly slipped out. His brother was handling his own challenges—but Alex was always ready if needed.