[ That sounds ominous. Tony shoots him a curious look, but he doesn’t press for more than Bruce is willing to offer. Not out of consideration of any desire on Bruce’s end not to talk about it, but because talking about Loki too much feels like deliberately stepping out into a minefield. Sooner or later, he knows it will blow up in his face.

As far as he’s concerned, it’s better if they just keep talking about Bruce. There’s less of chance they’ll stumble onto something Tony doesn’t want to discuss.

He’s not overly empathic at the best of times, but he can relate all too well with not being popular. With someone else being more popular. Steve Rogers. Now this real Tony Stark. ]

You’re popular with me. Does that count? [ He looks up from the laptop again, looking over at Bruce with eyebrows rising. ] I can be your fanclub. Carry around those big foam number one fingers. Unless you’d prefer a cheerleader? I’m told my legs look really sexy in a skirt.