Time always slipped by unnoticed. Tony spent the entire day playing Fight the Landlord with Natasha in his room.
Only after night fell did a refreshed Tony head downstairs in his bathrobe.
His seaside villa was still being repaired, so this was another of his villas. The joys of the wealthy really were that simple and unpretentious.
He sat on the balcony with a glass of wine, admiring the night view outside. Just then, Natasha slowly came downstairs.
Fresh from her shower, she exuded an irresistible allure. Unfortunately, Tony, now in the throes of post-nut clarity, completely ignored her charms.
"So, what did you need me for?"
Tony took a small sip of his wine and spoke without turning around.
Although he hadn't spent much time with Natasha, he didn't believe for a second that she'd been so eager today without wanting something from him.
Still, considering how hard she'd worked, he didn't mind giving her a chance.
Natasha had been wondering how to broach the subject. His words caught her off guard, but she obediently sat beside him, draping herself over him like a kitten. "I don't need anything, but Nick wants your help. He asked me to check with you."
The corners of Tony's mouth lifted slightly. "About Loki?"
"Yes."
"Then do you want me to help?"
"Just say you do, and I'll help."
Tony looked down at Natasha with a faint, knowing smile.
Natasha's heart skipped a beat, and she felt a rare flutter of nervousness.
"Really?"
"Yes. I keep my word."
Tony gave her his promise.
Natasha immediately wanted to speak, but she hesitated before the words left her mouth.
Silence fell.
After a long while, Natasha shook her head, her expression conflicted.
"I'm only passing along the message. The rest isn't my business."
A flicker