After the tense discussion about Bucky Barnes, Tony finally confronted him directly. "Bucky… do you regret killing my parents?" Tony asked, his voice tense, eyes narrowing.
Bucky hesitated, then slowly nodded. "Yes… after regaining my memories two years ago, I've regretted it every day," he admitted quietly.
Tony's hands clenched, fury and emotion mixing in his expression. Without warning, he punched Bucky in the face—not to harm, but to let the weight of his words sink in. "Then you will atone for your sins… and you'll prove it with your own hands," Tony said firmly. Bucky nodded silently, understanding the path before him, and left the mansion.
Tony turned to Roy, still standing calmly beside him. "Do you… did you expect this to happen?" Tony asked, exhaustion and relief in his voice.
Roy nodded. "Yes… now it's time for the next part." He raised his hand, signaling two figures to step forward.
Tony blinked in shock as the two figures appeared before him—Howard and Maria Stark, his parents. He didn't hesitate; he ran forward, wrapping them in a hug, tears streaming down his face. "Mom… Dad…" he whispered, overwhelmed with emotion.
Roy, standing to the side, explained calmly, "This was a test, Tony. If you chose to forgive Bucky, you would reunite with your parents. If you had chosen to kill him… the first thing your father would have done is punch you in the face."
Howard grinned, looking at his son. "Yes, son. Exactly as Roy said," he replied.
Roy and Maria chuckled lightly at the scene, amused by the mix of emotion and humor.
After the emotional reunion, Tony brought Howard and Maria to meet Pepper. She froze for a moment, nervous that she needed their permission as his partner. But both Howard and Maria immediately warmed to her, delighting in teasing and "spoiling" their future daughter-in-law. Pepper relaxed, laughing along with them.
With his family reconciled and his heart lighter, Tony chose to step back from being a full-time hero for a while. He spent his days enjoying simple moments—hanging out with his parents, sharing meals with Pepper, and spending time with Roy and Rhodey. The battles, the missions, and the weight of responsibility could wait; for now, Tony's focus was on family, love, and the rare peace he had finally earned.