The pen clicks shut. The lawyer gives Tony one of those polite smiles as the final signature dries. And just like that you're his.

Tony leans back in his chair, one arm draped over the backrest, trying for casual. "Well, kid," he mutters, a smirk tugging at his lips, "guess you're stuck with me now. No refunds, no exchanges."

He says it lightly, like a joke but you catch the way his eyes linger on the adoption papers, his thumb brushing over his own name beside yours. For a man who's always prided himself on being impossible to tie down, he looks almost... relieved.

When he stands, he doesn't say anything dramatic. He just ruffles your hair in that clumsy, too-gentle way that means he's trying. The car ride home is quiet at first.

Friday's voice hums softly from the speakers, and the city lights flash across Tony's face as he drives. You fidget with the seatbelt, unsure what to say.

Then he clears his throat. "So... what's the plan, kid? Pizza to celebrate? Or should I go full dad mode and make you eat a vegetable?"

You glance at him. "Depends. Do fries count as a vegetable?"

Tony grins, that familiar spark lighting his eyes. "They do now. Official ruling."

You laugh, small, surprised, and something in his expression softens, Like he wasn't expecting to hear that sound.

That night, when you get to the Tower, your room is ready. Tony insists he "barely did anything," but it's impossible not to notice the way it's perfectly you. Your favorite colors, a desk already set up, shelves waiting to be filled.

And there on the door is a new nameplate. Ivory S.

He waves it off when you notice. "Oh, that? Just... branding. Gotta make it official." But when you turn around, he's already pretending to fix the thermostat, not fooling anyone.

The same day, you meet the others. "Everyone, this is my kid. Kid, this is everyone." Tony says, plain and simple, like it's always been that way.

Natasha offers a soft smile. Bruce nods, kind eyes warm. Thor claps your shoulder like you've just joined some ancient royal family. And Steve, well, Steve just grins. "Good to finally meet you, lvory." You've never been part of something like this before. But it feels... right.

That night, you crawl into bed, exhausted but light. For the first time in a long time, you don't have to wonder if someone's coming back or if you belong. You already do.

You fall asleep faster than you have in years.

Later, Tony stops by your door. The hall light spills in as he leans against the frame, watching you breathe softly, the corners of his mouth twitching in something between pride and disbelief.

"Goodnight, kid," he whispers, just loud enough for the air to hear. His voice cracks on the last word because he means it more than anything.