Tony slowly closed his eyes. The world around him seemed to quiet down as a flood of thoughts overwhelmed his mind, bringing back memories of his entire life.
During his youth, Tony had been like a dazzling star, quickly rising to prominence with his extraordinary talent and intellect. His name echoed in academic circles and the field of innovation, where people admired and anticipated great things from the young genius.
However, as time passed and he stepped into adulthood, Tony gradually fell into a spiral of rebellion and recklessness. The once ambitious and passionate young man became indulgent and lost in a life of extravagance.
He strayed from the right path, seeking momentary thrills and vanity, squandering his potential on meaningless pursuits. Now, standing at the edge of life and death, Tony was filled with regret and helplessness. He thought about the words he never got to say and the emotions he had buried deep within his heart. He reminisced about the things he had always longed to do but never found the courage to attempt.
"What a boring life," he murmured. "So many things left unsaid, so many things left undone... What a pity."
If only time could rewind, if only he could make amends.
"Is this the legendary life-flashing-before-your-eyes moment, Tony?"
A voice full of amusement interrupted his thoughts.
Tony's eyes snapped open. Standing beside him was a figure clad in golden armor.
"Chino!?"
Boom—
A massive fireball exploded in the sky, its brilliant light illuminating the dark night as if it were daytime.
"No! Tony!"
Pepper collapsed to her knees, tears streaming down her face.
"Pepper, are you crying for your boss?"
A voice that sounded almost like an illusion echoed through the air. Pepper lifted her tear-filled eyes in disbelief as she saw Tony, slightly battered but still standing.
She staggered to her feet and ran towards him, while Tony opened his arms, ready to embrace her.
"Aren't you going to give me a welcome-back kiss?" Tony smirked playfully.
Smack!
A crisp slap landed on his face, making his head tilt slightly. A burning sensation spread across his cheek. That slap hurt!
But the next moment, her tear-stained lips pressed against his.
Tony's pupils shrank. His mind instantly thought: Maybe I should get slapped more often?
After a long moment, they finally parted. The surrounding employees had gathered, watching the scene with bated breath.
"I love you, Tony Stark. What's your answer?"
Pepper's eyes locked onto Tony's, filled with determination. Her gaze seemed to warn him—if he dared to refuse, another slap was coming his way.
Tony opened his mouth, wanting to respond, but...
"Don't make any more regrets, Tony."
Chino's voice echoed in his ears.
Taking a deep breath, Tony stepped back. Pepper's expression faltered for a moment before regaining her resolve. In her heart, she vowed: I won't give up.
Then, to her shock, Tony dropped to one knee, revealing a small box in his hand. As he flipped it open, a dazzling gemstone ring gleamed inside.
"This is my answer. Marry me, Pepper!" Tony declared, his voice filled with love and anticipation.
Pepper covered her mouth in disbelief, her eyes welling up with fresh tears. She had imagined this moment countless times but never expected it to happen so suddenly.
At that moment, glowing fungal vines spread from the ground beneath them, blooming into roses of various colors. Within seconds, a magnificent sea of flowers surrounded them, filling the air with a sweet fragrance.
It was the perfect proposal scene.
Even Natasha, who was watching from the shadows, couldn't help but show a look of longing. No woman could resist such a romantic moment.
Pamela, standing nearby, withdrew her hand, her eyes filled with admiration as she watched Tony and Pepper. A quiet longing surfaced in her heart. She, too, wished for such a romantic moment. She, too, wanted to get married.
"Don't worry, I haven't found the perfect proposal gift yet. Our engagement will be witnessed by the entire world." Chino's voice was gentle.
"Mmm, I believe in you, my love." Pamela leaned in and kissed him.
Damian, watching from the side, had a complicated expression. He muttered to himself, "How many times have they kissed today? Don't they get tired?"
"I do."
Pepper's voice trembled with joy and excitement. She reached out her delicate hand, and Tony carefully slipped the ring onto her finger.
The moment their lips met again in a passionate kiss, the surrounding employees erupted into cheers and applause.
"All employees here will receive a 50% salary increase."
At those words, the crowd's joyful smiles grew even wider as they sent their heartfelt blessings to the newly engaged couple.
Tony and Pepper approached Chino. Gratitude and happiness shone on Tony's face.
"Chino, this is the third time you've saved my life. I really don't know how to thank you."
"No need to thank me. I got to witness a touching love story tonight, after all," Chino teased, glancing between Tony and Pepper.
Pepper, blushing, wiped her eyes. "Sorry you had to see that."
She tightened her grip on Tony's hand, her radiant smile never fading.
Looking at Damian, she smiled and asked, "Is this your child?"
"Good evening, Uncle Tony, Aunt Pepper. My name is Damian Wayne," the boy greeted politely.
Chino shook his head. "He's a friend's child. I'm just his godfather."
"Godfather..." Pepper repeated the word thoughtfully.
Exchanging glances, Tony and Pepper came to a silent agreement.
"When we have children in the future, we want you to be their godfather too," Tony said seriously.
"Are you serious? Are you turning me into a daycare owner?" Chino looked exasperated.
Tony smirked and patted him on the shoulder. "Hey, buddy, don't be so reluctant! Being the godfather of a Stark kid is an honor! Besides, with your skills, handling a few kids will be a piece of cake."
Chino sighed, then chuckled. "Alright, alright. Since you trust me so much, I'll accept. But you better start working on making those kids soon."
Pepper's face turned crimson as she lightly shoved Tony, who simply burst into laughter.
"Don't worry, we'll get to it."
"Chino, what have you been up to lately? I haven't been able to reach you, and your phone keeps saying you're out of service," Tony asked curiously.
"I'm setting up a company—for my Hell Reconstruction Project."
"Hell Reconstruction? What does hell look like? Can I see it?"
"Sure."
As soon as Chino agreed, a bright glow shone on his wrist. Before he could react, a crimson portal suddenly opened, and a fiery red hand lunged out, grabbing his wrist.
Quote of the Chapter:
"Love is not just about finding the right person, but creating a right relationship. It's not about how much love you have in the beginning but how much love you build till the end."
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