A Marvelous Christmas

Frost and fog crept up the windowpanes, hazing the lights of the massive city below, even as alit as it was in the festive season. Snowflakes drifted down the dark skies, settling upon buildings and piling up on the massive Avengers logo that shone in red and green, joining in the Christmas mood.

Tony smiled at his reflection in the mirror, tugging at the wooly red and gold sweater, straightening the Iron Man mask stitched upon it.

“How’re we looking, FRIDAY?”

“Rather festive, sir. And in line with your theme,” The AI replied. “As for the arrangements sir, they have all been taken care of. We are ready for the Avengers Christmas Party and Miss Morgan’s first Christmas.”

“Wonderful. Is she awake? Morgan, I mean?” 

“Awake, and loving her new soft, soft clothes,” Pepper’s voice rang from behind, and Tony turned to see her standing behind him in a red dress, holding his daughter in her arms. She was dressed in a fluffy Santa sweater and Santa cap.

Tony’s heart leaped in his chest and butterflies burst in his stomach as he walked toward them. A smile split on his face as Morgan stretched her little arms toward him. 

Tony lifted her up and rubbed his nose against her tiny ones, while Morgan let out a delighted giggle. 

“She is very much a daddy’s girl, you know? I am convinced she loves you more.” Pepper let out a mock huff. “Look at her.”

“Of course, she does.” Tony winced slightly as Morgan’s fist curled tightly on his hair and she tugged at it. “She loves me three thousand.”

Morgan giggled again, a delighted spark hoovering in her eyes and Tony smiled at her, the corners of his eyes crinkling.

“I’m happy.” Pepper put an arm around him, softly patting Morgan’s cheek, before laying her head on Tony’s shoulder. “This has been the first normal year, ever since you became Iron Man.” She brushed her fingers over the arc reactor upon his chest. “I’m somewhat glad you haven’t used this.”

“Well, a big thing changed in our lives.” Tony cradled his daughter, as she watched him with wide eyes. “I… This is the most precious thing I ever created, Pep. And I… I don’t want to risk it all.” Tony turned to her. “Plus, ever since Thanos, Heroes poured forth, more than we could’ve ever imagined. From a team of six, the Avengers became an army. I think it is time to hand over the torch now officially. Now I’ve something greater than the world to protect.”

A warm smile spread over Pepper’s lips and she pecked Tony's cheek, hugging him tighter. 

“Sir, Captain Rodgers has arrived,” FRIDAY declared and Tony glanced at his watch.

“He’s early. Who comes early to a party?”

Pepper slapped his shoulder lightly and glared at him. “Play nice, Tony. That big quarrel of yours was enough for a lifetime.” Tony grimaced, remembering the whole thing about the accords between the two of them, and gave her a nod. 

“The team’s back now. The whole team, with additions. It is exactly as Fury said. When Earth really needs its heroes, they’ll come. Because that’s what heroes do. And Strange… he made it all the more possible, changing his plans midway, deciding to throw my rulebook out of the window after seeing through time.”

“Don’t sulk, dear. It doesn’t look good on you. Now, let’s greet Steve, shall we?”

“Yes, dear.”

He walked out toward the elevator, revealing Steve, who smiled at them, his eyes flicking to Morgan, who was playing with Pepper’s hair while still in Tony’s arms.

“Tony, Pepper. Merry Christmas.” Morgan looked up at him, staring at Steve with wide eyes. “And Merry Christmas to you too, Morgan. Aren’t you looking adorable?”

Morgan didn’t reply and went back to chomping on Pepper’s hair.

“Sorry, she’s shy,” Pepper said. “You’re practically a stranger to her.”

“Well, she’s adorable, Pepper.” Steve coughed. “And motherhood suits you. I never thought I’d see Tony like this, but he's also taken to being a father very well. No offense, Tony.”

“None taken.” Tony shifted Morgan in her arms. “And well, you’re the first one here. Let’s sit down. Drink?”

“I cannot get drunk, but why not?” Tony led Steve through the room into the grand living room, the hub of the Avengers Tower. 

The room glowed warmly, bathed in the light of an enormous Christmas tree adorned with ornaments representing each Avenger. A miniature shield hung near the top, just beneath a glowing star, and a tiny Mjölnir nestled among the branches. A small arc reactor sparkled like an icy jewel near the center, casting faint blue light across the Bow and quiver that hung next to a green fist.

“All of us…” Steve breathed, his gaze lingering on the tree. "You’ve outdone yourself, Tony."

"Please." Tony waved a hand dramatically as he set Morgan down on a cushioned play mat near the fireplace. She immediately grabbed a stuffed reindeer and began inspecting its shiny nose. "This is a masterpiece. It’s not just festive; it’s thematic. Every piece tells a story, Rogers. Art in its purest form. And it is for all the heroes who fought with us, the ones who aren’t here too."

Steve chuckled and shook his head. "I didn’t take you for the sentimental type."

Tony raised an eyebrow, grabbing a bottle of whiskey and two glasses from the bar. "You know me better than that, Cap. I’m practically a walking hallmark card—when I want to be."

Pepper rolled her eyes affectionately as she joined Morgan, adjusting the tiny Santa hat that had slipped off her daughter’s head. "Don’t let him fool you, Steve. He’s been planning this for months."

“It is my daughter’s first Christmas, Pep. It has to be grand.” Thunder rumbled in the sky above and Tony grinned. “What better celebration than inviting the Heroes of the Universe? The defeaters of the world’s greatest cosmic dictator and threat?”

“Thanos was a close call, Tony. We nearly lost.” Steve took his glass of whiskey. “Had Fury not pulled a miracle and gotten Strange wouldn’t have followed, we’d have fought our own battles against Thanos… and lost.”

“But we won. Fury threw a Hail Mary and Strange made sure it carried all the way. We saved the Universe, Steve.” Tony heard a beep in his ear-piece. “And here’s the guy who delivered the final blow. And the one we have to thank for the Christmas-Card-Perfect snow.” 

Outside the window, the Bifrost descended onto the landing pad, revealing Thor, Jane Foster, Darcy Lewis, and Valkyrie.

“MY FRIENDS!” Thor boomed, lightning flickering on the edges of his ax as his Santa hat fluttered in the wind. “A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

“Thor, Brunnhilde, Jane, Darcy.” Steve rose from the sofa. “Glad you all could make it. How’s New Asgard?” 

“New Asgard is well, Captain. We’re now a recognized Kingdom by this United Nations of yours.”

“We heard,” Tony said, watching as Jane and Darcy made their way toward Morgan, cooing over her. 

“You have a fine daughter, Mr. Stark,” Brunnhilde smiled. “Rather very adorable.”

“I always said that Pepper and my kid was going to turn heads, didn’t I?” Tony grinned. “Feel free to coo over her. But today’s rule is that if she wets her diaper, whoever’s hand she is in, changes the clothes.” He smirked. “I for one, hope it is Steve.”

Thor’s laughter rumbled through the room as they drifted toward the bar, pouring drinks. Outside the huge windows, snowflakes continued to tumble, dusting the city in a pristine white. Slowly, inside the tower, the grand living room buzzed with life as more people trickled in.

Clint Barton was the next to arrive, bundled in a plaid scarf and carrying a basket of freshly baked cookies, his kids trailing behind. “Merry Christmas, everyone!” he called in a cheery voice as his children darted toward the tree.

“Clint! You didn’t burn them this time?” Tony teased, eyeing the basket with suspicion.

Clint grinned, unbothered. “Lucky’s supervision. He’s got a nose for quality.” As if summoned, Lucky the Pizza Dog trotted in, a red and green bandana tied neatly around his neck. He sniffed the air before heading straight for Morgan, who let out a delighted gurgle and waved her tiny fists in excitement.

“Good to see you, Barton.” Steve clasped Clint’s shoulder, his expression warm. “Looks like you brought the whole gang.”

“Wouldn’t miss this for the world,” Clint replied. “It’s not every day the Avengers throw a Christmas party. And the kids wanted to meet you again. I’ve heard Nathaniel wants your autograph. So, do it as a favor.”

Clint winked at him as the elevator dinged again, heralding the arrival of Bruce Banner and Sam Wilson. Bruce carried a tray of eggnog, while Sam balanced a box of wrapped presents, his easy smile lighting up the room.

“Eggnog?” Bruce offered, setting the tray down on the bar. “It’s a new recipe. Non-alcoholic, just in case.”

“You’re a lifesaver, Banner.” Pepper handed him a cup, her smile soft. “Morgan, look who’s here!”

Morgan turned her wide eyes to Bruce, who crouched to her level with a gentle smile. “Hi, Morgan. Merry Christmas.” He handed her a small, stuffed Hulk toy, which she grabbed with her chubby hands, letting out a happy coo.

“Oh, she’s adorable,” Sam said, setting the presents down by the tree. “Last time I saw her, she was just a newborn. Now, well, she’s already crawling.”

“She’s growing fast,” Tony agreed. “Takes after her old man.”

“Let’s hope she takes after Pepper instead,” Sam quipped. “She’d look terrible in a beard. And one tony’s enough.” 

Natasha Romanoff slipped in quietly, as laughter spread through the room. 

“Am I late?”

Tony jumped and whirled around, and she gave him a tiny smirk.

“You’re right on time, Nat,” Pepper assured her. “Come in, grab a drink.”

Natasha’s eyes found the tree, and she smiled as she noticed the tiny black widow ornament nestled among the branches. “Nice touch, Stark.”

“Only the best for my family,” Tony replied, tipping an imaginary hat.

The room soon filled with laughter, chatter, and the occasional jingle of bells from Morgan’s playmat. The Avengers, scattered across the room, mingled like old friends reunited after years apart. It was a rare sight: no missions, no threats, just warmth and camaraderie.

Thor, ever the showman, began recounting tales of past Asgardian feasts, his booming voice drawing a crowd. “And then, the goat kicked Loki into the pudding! Ah, it was glorious!”

Jane and Darcy laughed while Valkyrie rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile.

“Did you bring any Asgardian mead?” Sam asked, his curiosity piqued.

“Indeed, I did!” Thor gestured to a barrel in the corner. “Enough to make even the strongest mortal feel godly!”

“You might want to pace yourself, Wilson,” Natasha warned with a smirk.

As the evening progressed, the tree became the center of attention. Tony took charge of the gift exchange, his usual flair for theatrics in full display. “Alright, folks! Gather ‘round. It’s time for the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the presents!”

Sitting on the floor with Lucky, Morgan clapped her tiny hands against her legs, letting out excited squeals. “Ba-ba-ba!”

“That’s right, sweetheart.” Tony knelt beside her, handing her a brightly wrapped box. “This one’s from Uncle Steve.”

Pepper helped Morgan tear into the paper with her chubby fingers, revealing a wooden puzzle shaped like the Avengers logo. Morgan stared at it in fascination, her tiny mouth forming an “O.”

“Thank you, Uncle Steve!” Pepper said with a smile on Morgan’s behalf.

“You’re welcome, Morgan,” Steve said, his smile gentle. “I thought you might like something colorful to play with.”

The exchange continued, each gift revealing the unique bond between the heroes. Clint handed out handmade scarves, each tailored to its recipient. Natasha gave Morgan a soft blanket embroidered with tiny flowers. Thor presented a small replica of Mjölnir, which Morgan tried to lift with both hands, giggling as it wobbled in her grip.

When it was Tony’s turn, he stood up, holding a small box. “Well, I don’t do things small, if anyone’s wondering.” He removed a remote from the box. “Look outside the window, Fellas.”

Then, he pressed the big red button on it.

The sky lit up, as fireworks shot in the air, taking the shape of a round shield and Steve gasped. A silver hammer lit up in the sky next to it, followed by an Iron Man mask. A huge green fist followed, with a purple bow and arrow, followed by a pair of crossed batons. 

A second later, Tony clapped his hands, and the symbols dissipated. Another round of fireworks ripped into the sky before bursting into a massive Avengers Logo that hung above the tower, its light falling across everyone’s faces.

“Tony, this is…” Bruce began, his voice thick with emotion.

“Perfect,” Natasha finished, her fingers brushing the frame.

“It’s not just a team,” Tony said, his voice softer than usual. “It’s us. We’ve been through hell together, and we’ve come out stronger. I wanted something to remind us of that. Of who we are.”

Pepper rested a hand on his shoulder, her eyes glistening. “It’s beautiful, Tony.”

“To family,” Steve said, raising his glass.

“To family,” everyone echoed, their voices a harmonious blend.

Tony coughed.

“Oh,” Steve’s cheeks pinkened slightly. “And Merry Christmas.”

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AND… DONE! Hope you all liked the story!

First, before anything else, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas! Wishing you a Christmas filled with love, joy, and the warmth of cherished moments.

Now, I published this because I wanted to keep the spirit of Christmas and establish a tradition for myself with Christmas fics. Last year, I wrote A Magical Christmas, so this year, I decided to continue it in this fic.

This was also a very last-minute decision, and I began writing it just yesterday, planning and all. I haven’t had the chance to have it betaed as I just finished it, passing it through only Grammarly and AI  corrector for grammar. So, my apologies if it didn’t look up to the mark. But most of my work has been going into the next Black Dawn Chapter, which’ll go up in a couple of days.

The GotSIS chapter will follow, which will be released next year. (1st or 2nd Jan, dw.)

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Stay Happy! Stay Safe! Keep Smiling! Keep Reading!

HPfanfictioner66