"Well, I did design my house in Malibu," Tony points out, "but a house perched on a cliff is an exception that proves the rule, I think." Not many people would be reckless enough to attempt to defy physics like that, but Tony isn't just anyone, and his house isn't just any mansion. Maybe Stephen'll get to see that for himself someday.

Even though Stephen barely touches Tony when he unbuttons his shirt, Tony hums with contentment. "A good start," he agrees, trying to play it cool. The elevator comes to a stop, and the doors slide open on the first floor of a split-level penthouse. An impressive bar stretches nearly the length of one wall, facing an equally impressive view of the skyline.

"Does this count as the first date?" Tony asks as he steps behind the bar. "Just so I can keep track." He rummages through the bottles for a moment before taking out one bottle full of amber liquid and two glasses. "And if it doesn't, I might bump you down from preposterously expensive scotch to just really good, so no pressure."