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Jonah Stane hated Aurora Stark.

He loathed her, not just because of her effortless intelligence and unyielding spirit, but because she represented everything he wasn't: genuine, loved, and untouchable.

As Obadiah Stane's son, Jonah had been groomed to see the Starks not as allies but as obstacles to the power his father craved. Pretending to be in love with Aurora was merely a part of their grand scheme. Jonah's smiles and affectionate gestures were merely lies.

Beneath his charming persona lurked the mind of a psychopath, someone who saw others as pawns in his twisted game.

Jonah watched from across the room, his eyes narrowing as he took in the sight of Aurora sleeping peacefully on his bed. The soft glow of the moonlight spilled through the window, casting a gentle light on her serene face, completely oblivious to the danger so close. His footsteps were silent as he approached, his expression cold and calculating, a sharp contrast to the tenderness he feigned whenever she was awake. He sat down beside her, the mattress dipping slightly under his weight.

Slowly, he reached out, his fingers grazing her cheek, tracing a delicate path down to her neck. He felt the faint thrum of her pulse beneath his touch, rhythmic and steady, a reminder of her fragility. Twisted thoughts swirled in Jonah's mind as he toyed with the idea of taking out her life, right here and now- one swift motion, and he could end it all. He imagined the satisfaction of watching the light fade from her eyes, the thrill of power it would give him, the silence that would follow. But even as his fingers lingered over her pulse, Jonah pulled back, the echo of his father's command ringing in his ears.

Not yet, he reminded himself.

Aurora stirred, as she mumbled his name softly, her voice a sleepy whisper, "Jonah?"

The sound of her voice snapped him to reality, and in an instant, his expression shifted from cold detachment to a warm, loving facade. "I'm here," he said softly, slipping under the covers beside her. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. Aurora nestled against his chest, her breath evening out as she relaxed in his embrace, comforted by the illusion of safety he provided. Jonah rested his chin lightly on her head, stroking her hair with a tenderness that felt foreign, even to him. "Go back to sleep," he murmured. "I've got you."

"I love you," she mumbled.

"I love you too." He pressed a kiss to her head.

As Aurora drifted back into slumber, Jonah held her close, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. Despite his urgent bloodlust, he was restrained by Obadiah's demand: Aurora must live, at least until their plan to seize control of Stark Industries was complete. Jonah despised the command but understood the necessity.

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"How long am I going to keep this up, Dad?"

The next morning, Jonah and Obadiah stood in the dimly lit study, the heavy curtains drawn tight to keep out the morning sun. The room was filled with an air of quiet tension, the faint hum of the house the only sound between them. Jonah leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his expression brooding as Obadiah paced slowly, his hands clasped behind his back. They spoke in low, guarded voices, careful not to wake Aurora, who still slept upstairs, blissfully unaware of the plotting unfolding beneath her.

"Patience," Obadiah paused, his gaze sharp and calculating as he turned to Jonah. "Tony's the priority," he said, his voice edged with frustration. "He's too damn smart for his own good, always thinking ten steps ahead. If we're going to take full control of the company, he needs to be dealt with first."

"I'm getting sick and tired pretending to be in love with that bitch," Jonah seethed with frustration.

"She's naive, too trusting. She thinks with her heart, not her head. She won't be a problem until later." Obadiah's eyes narrowed, his tone dripping with contempt. "She's a loose end, but one we can tie up easily once Tony's out of the picture."

Jonah nodded, though his mind lingered on the dark thoughts that still clung to him. "Tony's not going to see it coming," he replied, his voice calm but laced with a cold certainty. "And when he's gone, she won't know what hit her. She'll be too busy mourning her brother to notice what's happening right in front of her."

Obadiah gave a satisfied nod, his confidence in their scheme unshakable. "Good. One step at a time. Remember, the only way we can get her share of the company is if you marry her and convince her to sign those documents."

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Meanwhile, Aurora stirred awake, as she blinked away the remnants of sleep. The bed was empty beside her, the sheets cool where Jonah had been. She reached for his shirt, slipping it on and letting it fall loosely around her body. She moved towards the bathroom, getting ready for the day.

Barefoot, she padded softly down the hallway as she searched for her boyfriend. "Jonah?" she called softly, her voice warm and affectionate. "Where are you?"

She wandered through the quiet house, her mind still hazy with dreams, until she reached the study. As she turned the corner, she jumped in surprise, her hand flying to her chest when she found Jonah and Obadiah standing together, deep in conversation. Her sudden appearance cut through the tension in the room, and she flashed a nervous smile, her cheeks flushing slightly at her own clumsiness. "Oh, sorry! I didn't mean to interrupt," she said with a light laugh, unaware of the gravity of the discussion she had just walked in on.

Jonah's eyes softened instantly, his cold demeanour melting away as he stepped toward her. He cupped her face with one hand and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips, his touch deceptively tender. "Morning baby," he murmured, his voice warm as he pulled her close.

Obadiah watched the interaction with a practiced smile, masking his own annoyance at the interruption. "Good morning, Rory," he greeted. "Breakfast will be ready soon. Why don't you join us in the dining room?"

Aurora nodded, her smile bright and unsuspecting as she glanced between them, completely oblivious to the schemes that loomed over her. She took Jonah's hand, leaning into his side as they walked.

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The three of them sat around the dining table, the sunlight streaming in through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room. Aurora sipped her coffee, feeling at ease in the comfortable hum of the morning. Obadiah watched her with a measured smile, his eyes occasionally flicking to Jonah, who sat beside her, casually resting a hand on her knee beneath the table.

"So, Rory," Obadiah began, leaning back in his chair. "We haven't had a catch up in a long time. What's your life been like these days? Any big plans for the future?"

"Well, it's my final year at college. I will be joining the board of Stark industries soon," Aurora commented.

That made both Obadiah and Jonah share a look at the news. "That's fantastic!" Obadiah beamed.

"You never mentioned this to me," Jonah said to Aurora.

"It was of a conversation I had with Tony yesterday," she shrugged.

Obadiah subtly shook his head at Jonah, telling him to drop the conversation. "What else, Rory?" He diverted his attention back to her.

"I've been working on a few charity organisation too. Mom's legacy needs to continue," she said with a light laugh.

"I've heard you and Jonah will be moving in together? When will that happen?"

"Soon," Jonah confirmed. "Rory wants to decorate the apartment before we fully move in." To which Aurora nodded to.

Obadiah continued with a few more questions, steering the conversation towards Aurora's dreams and goals. But then Obadiah leaned forward, his eyes narrowing slightly as he asked, "And what about marriage? Any thoughts on tying the knot someday?"

The question hung in the air, causing Aurora to pause mid-bite. She hadn't expected the conversation to turn so personal, so suddenly. She hesitated, her smile faltering as she glanced at Jonah, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. They hadn't really talked about marriage- at least only once, but only brief.

Before she could find the right words, Jonah answered for her, his voice unwavering. "Yes, definitely. We've talked about it, and it's something we both want," he said it so convincingly, so decisively.

Aurora was stunned, her breath catching in her throat. She looked at him, her eyes wide with surprise, trying to read his expression. Jonah met her gaze with a reassuring smile, his grip on her knee tightening slightly, as if daring her to contradict him.

She winced, casually moving her knee from his tightening his hold and crossing it over the other. She offered a polite smile to Obadiah, as she responded. "Well, I'm still in college," she began. "I want to pursue my dream career first, you know? Get everything in place for myself before even thinking about marriage. When the time is right, then maybe we'll think about it."

Jonah's hand lingered in the empty space where her knee had been, his fingers curling slightly as he pulled back. He gave her a sharp, sidelong glance, his expression tightening for just a moment, a flicker of irritation crossing his otherwise composed demeanour.

Obadiah nodded thoughtfully. "Of course," he said smoothly, though there was a glint in his eye that suggested he was less interested in her personal goals than he appeared. "It's important to follow your own path. No rush, right?"

"Yeah," Aurora let out a nervous laugh.

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Aurora returned home later that day, the familiar comfort of the Stark mansion wrapping around her like a warm blanket. She found Tony in his workshop, tinkering with a new tech, but he looked up when she walked in, giving her a quick smile. "Hey, sis," he greeted. "Come to see the latest and greatest? I've got some new upgrades that'll blow your mind."

Tony launched into an enthusiastic explanation about the suit's new features, but Aurora's mind wandered, her thoughts still tangled in the morning's conversation with Obadiah and Jonah. She tried to focus, nodding along as Tony pointed out the finer details of his work, but she couldn't.

He paused, noticing her distant expression, the way her eyes drifted aimlessly around the room rather than locking onto the suit like they usually would. He set down his tools, wiping his hands on a rag as he gave her a concerned look. "Hey, earth to Rory," he said, waving a hand in front of her face. "You okay? You're not listening. What's up?"

Aurora blinked, snapping back to the present. "Sorry, Tony," she said, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Just- thinking about some stuff."

He raised an eyebrow. "This wouldn't have anything to do with Jonah, would it?" he teased, though his tone carried a hint of genuine dislike. Tony had never been a fan of Jonah, and he made no secret of it. "You two didn't have a fight or something? Because if you did, I'll be the first to say 'I told you so.'"

She let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "No, we didn't fight," she assured him, though she absently rubbed her knee where Jonah's grip tightened on her.

She hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip as she tried to find the right words. "It's just- Obadiah brought up marriage today. And Jonah- he seems ready, you know? Like, really ready. But I'm not. I just- I'm not there yet."

His expression softened, and he leaned back against the workbench, crossing his arms. "You don't have to be," he said simply. "You've got time, Rory. And if Jonah's really the right guy, he'll respect your decision. And if he doesn't-" He shrugged. "Well, then maybe he's not as perfect as he pretends to be."

Aurora just let out a deep sigh.

"Your birthday is coming up," Tony changed the subject. "Getting old, eh?" He teased.

Aurora lifted her shoe off, and threw it at him. "Says the grandpa with greying hair."

Tony faked a gasp, dodging her throw. "Grandpa? Grandpa?! I'm in my prime. This—" He gestured to his perfectly sculpted frame. "—is peak physical condition. You're just jealous because you'll be joining me in the world of 'responsible adulthood. You're practically ancient."

"You? Responsible?" Aurora rolled her eyes dramatically, walking toward him. "You're almost twice my age. Twice. You're like a museum exhibit for midlife crises."

"Museum exhibit? Please, kid. This is vintage charm you're looking at." He struck a ridiculous pose, flexing as if to show off some kind of non-existent youthful muscle.

Aurora groaned, but couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips.

"I mean," he continued. "You're the one who's about to start complaining about back pain."

"You're just mad because you can't drink tequila without a three-day recovery."

He gave her an exaggerated look of shock. "Excuse me, I have an arc reactor in my chest, little sis. That's practically a superpower. Hangovers bounce right off."

She snorted. "Yeah, I'm sure that's exactly what it's for. Not saving your life or anything."

Tony shrugged. "Details."

She pulled up a stool and sat next to him, eyeing the mess of wires and metal pieces scattered across the workbench. "So, what're you working on this time? Finally building me that flying car you keep promising."

"Funny you mention that," Tony said. "It's your birthday soon, so I might've started working on something. It's, uh, a surprise."

Aurora's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "The last time you made me a birthday present, it exploded. In my hand."

Tony raised a finger. "Correction: it didn't explode in your hand. It exploded near your hand. Minor difference."

"Uh-huh. Tell that to my eyebrows, which took a month to grow back."

"Well, you're gonna love this one. Totally explosion free. Probably."

Aurora shook her head with a laugh. "Right. Should I start growing my eyebrows out again, just in case?"

Tony smirked, returning to his work. "Hey, it's all part of the Stark family charm. Danger and excitement come with the package. Besides, what's life without a little risk?"

"Uh, normal? Safe?" Aurora deadpanned.

"Yeah, no thanks." Tony winked. "But don't worry, I'll keep things a little less explosive this time around. Consider it my gift to you. That, and maybe, just maybe, I'll get you something boring and conventional. Like socks."

Aurora gasped theatrically. "Socks? You're really pulling out all the stops, aren't you?"

"What can I say? I'm generous."

"Generous is not the word I'd use, but sure."

Tony chuckled. "Besides, what do you even need for your birthday? You've got your whole life ahead of you more so than some of us." He gave her a teasing wink.

"Yeah, but I wouldn't mind a sports car. You know, something fast enough to leave you in the dust."

He raised an eyebrow. "Oh, please. I am the speed demon of this family. You, on the other hand, drive like an old lady."

"At least I'm not the one who crashes their car for fun."

"That was one time, Rory. One time. And it wasn't even a crash, more of a... tactical landing."

Aurora snorted again, shaking her head. "You keep telling yourself that. Tell me more about how reasonable it is to own five Lamborghinis when you barely leave the house."

"I leave the house! Sometimes."

"To go to the workshop, which is in the house, Tony."

Tony waved his hand dismissively. "Details, details. Anyway, the point is, you're catching up to me. Another decade and you'll be just as wrinkly and neurotic as me."

"Neurotic, maybe. Wrinkly, never."

Tony chuckled and shook his head. "We'll see. Until then, I guess I'll just have to keep teasing you while you're young and full of optimism."

Aurora smirked. "And I'll keep reminding you how old and cranky you're getting."

"Fair trade," Tony said, grinning as he picked up his tools again. "Now, scram. I've got genius work to do, and you're distracting me."

Aurora smiled, walking over to him and leaning forward to give him a kiss on the cheek. "Make sure it doesn't blow me up this time."

"I make no promises," he grinned as he ruffled her hair, and pushed her away.

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Aurora stood in her room, her excitement growing whilst adjusting her outfit in front of the mirror. Pepper was seated on the edge of the bed, organising a few makeup products, her smile growing wider as she watched Aurora's infectious enthusiasm.

"I can't believe we're finally having a girl's night!" Aurora said, her voice filled with genuine excitement. "It's so fun to have some time to just hang out and be- well, just be us."

Pepper looked up, her eyes warm with understanding. "I'm really glad we're doing this too. It's nice to spend time together outside of all the craziness."

Aurora's grin widened, as she sat next to Pepper. "Can I tell you something?" She asked, nervously playing with her fingers.

"Of course," Pepper nodded.

"This means a lot to me. You're my family, too," she whispered softly.

"Really?" Pepper asked, eyes shining.

"Yes! You're like my big sister."

Pepper swallowed the lump forming in her throat, cupping the side of Aurora's face. "You're my family too."

Aurora had always found it hard to make real friends because of the last name she carried. Many people wanted to be around her, but their interest was more about her family's wealth and fame than about who she truly was. As a result, Aurora felt isolated.

"I love your dress. Where did you get it from?" Aurora asked, playing with the blue strap on Pepper's shoulder.

"Oh- um- your brother gifted this to me," Pepper shyly spoke.

Aurora turned around, a knowing smirk playing on her lips. If there was one thing in this world that she was proud of, is that she was the biggest fan of team Pepperony; that's what she liked to call them.

If only her brother would stop his playboy ways, Aurora would have had a sister in law by now. But she was still manifesting for that day to happen.

"It really brings out your eyes," Aurora complimented.

"Thank you," Pepper smiled. "Is Jonah picking you up?"

"Mhm," Aurora nodded, as she applied on her lipstick. "Who's your date for the night?"

"Oh, i'm going by myself," Pepper said.

"What?!" Aurora shrieked, making Pepper wince at the level of her tone. "I'll be back."

Pepper watched as Aurora elegantly walked out of her room, mumbling incoherent words about someone.

Two minutes later, Aurora dragged in a confused Tony into the room. "What's the emergency?" He trailed off before his eyes laid upon the dolled up Pepper. "Oh?"

"I'm leaving now. I'll see you both at the gala. Bye!" Aurora gleefully left the room.

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When Jonah arrived at the house, he was greeted by the sight of Aurora descending the staircase. "Wow," he whispered, taking in her form.

The dress was a stunning creation, hugging her curves in all the right places with a sleek, fitted bodice that accentuated her silhouette. The fabric was a rich, deep emerald green that shimmered subtly under the light, its elegant sheen catching every movement she made. Her hair was styled in loose waves that cascaded over her shoulders, and her makeup was tastefully done, highlighting her features with a soft, radiant glow. She wore a pair of simple, yet elegant, diamond earrings that caught the light with every turn of her head.

After a brief pause, Jonah cleared his throat, his voice coming out a bit hoarse. "Rory," he managed to say, his eyes not leaving her. "You look- incredible. I mean, absolutely stunning."

Aurora's cheeks flushed with a mixture of pleasure and slight embarrassment at his reaction."Thank you," she said softly, her eyes meeting his. "I was a little nervous about it, but I'm glad you like it."

He stepped closer, reaching out to take her hand with a look of awe on his face. "Like it? I'm reconsidering not taking you to the gala, and back to mine instead."

Aurora giggled when Jonah leaned down to give her a kiss and squeeze against her hips. "Absolutely not! This is custom made dress made by Elie Saab himself," she shook her head.

"After the gala, this is definitely happening." He pointed between himself and her.

"We'll see about that," she sassed.

Jonah chuckled as he offered his arm to her. "Let's go so I can show off to everyone how lucky I am." With that he guided her to his car.

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At the gala, Aurora moved through the elegantly decorated ballroom, the soft clinking of glasses and murmured conversations creating a lively event. She moved to the bar, gesturing to the bartender to make her a drink.

"They told me you were the one donating to my hospital." A deep voice spoke as Aurora looked up, her eyes meeting those of a tall, distinguished man with a strong presence.

"Hi?" Aurora trailed off.

"I'm Stephen Strange. I'm a neurosurgeon working at the hospital you're supporting with your donation tonight."

"I'm-"

"I know who you are," he nodded. "I must say the media does not justice to your beauty and intelligence." He took her hand in his and placed a kiss on the back of it.

"I have a boyfriend," she nervously laughed, taking her hand away from him.

"I know," he smirked. Stephen Strange had an air of quiet confidence about him, his dark hair neatly combed and his tailored suit fitting impeccably.

"Is everything okay, baby?" Jonah stepped in beside her, placing his arm around her waist, narrowing his eyes at the man in front of him.

"Mhm," Aurora nodded.

"Jonah Stane," he introduced himself.

"Stephen Strange," Stephen said, as he looked back at Aurora. "I must leave now, but thank you for inviting me and for your donation."

"My pleasure," Aurora gave a genuine smile, watching Stephen leave the event.

"Dance with me," Jonah said, dragging her to the floor, his grip tightening on her.

"Oh, okay," Aurora laughed, falling into step with Jonah as they swayed to the music.

Aurora noticed the change in Jonah's demeanor immediately. She glanced up at him, concern furrowing her brow. Jonah's expression was tight as he pulled her close, his movements deliberate and controlled. Aurora could feel the tension in his body, and she took a deep breath, trying to bridge the gap between them.

"Jonah," she said softly, placing a gentle hand on his cheek as she looked into his eyes.

"I'm fine," he gritted out.

"You're clearly not," she sighed. "I only have eyes for you, okay?" She smiled, trying to lighten up the tension.

"You're too naive and friendly," Jonah scoffed, distaste in his tone. Aurora was taken aback with his tone. It was the first time she was witnessing this version of him.

She took a deep breath, trying to keep her voice steady. "You're making it seem like I was flirting with him or something."

Before Jonah could speak in, Tony made his appearance, "Mind if I cut in? I'd like to dance with my sister."

Jonah immediately released his hold on Aurora. "Be my guest," he muttered and left.

As Tony led Aurora to the side of the ballroom, he watched her with a concerned gaze. "What was that about?" he asked, his voice low but filled with genuine worry. "Are you okay?"

Aurora nodded tightly, trying to compose herself as she looked up at her brother. "It's nothing serious," she said. "We just had a bit of a disagreement. He'll be fine once he cools down."

"You sure? I don't like seeing you upset, especially at a night that's supposed to be fun."

She nodded, offering a small, weary smile. "Yeah, I'm okay."

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As Aurora conversed with the guests at the gala, she was approached by a tense Tony who gently grabbed her hand and led her to his car. "Tony? What's wrong?"

"Get in," Tony urged, opening the door and gesturing her in.

Aurora complied, but the look of confusion was still written all over her face. "Are you going to tell me what's wrong?"

He swiftly drove away, jaw set in a tight grip and hands also tightening on the steering wheel. Aurora placed a hand on his arm to grab his attention. "Tony?"

"Obadiah was the one to file the injunction against me," he said, not even glancing at his sister's expression.

"What?!" Tony then explained to her how Obadiah made deals and sold weapons without Tony's approval on any of the shipments.

"Jonah's in on it too," Tony said. "I knew there was a reason why I hated him."

"No," Aurora whispered, shaking her head at him. "He wouldn't do that. Not to me. He loves me."

"He doesn't!" Tony shouted, making Aurora eyes widen at his outburst. He took a deep breath, speaking lowly. "I'm so sorry, Rory. I know this is a lot to take in, but you've got to trust me on this."

Aurora looked away, blinking away the tears away quickly, her heart heavy with the weight of this news, feeling a deep sense of betrayal from the man she loved.

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author's note:

- i would appreciate it if you vote on every single chapter and add it to your reading list :)