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The fact you were pregnant was a miracle in and of itself. Vision wasn’t supposed to be able to reproduce, what with being an android and all. But when your best friend is a girl who can manipulate the very fabric of time and space at will, she can bring it upon herself to bestow your rather unique husband with a rather important tool for reproduction.

Here you were now, nine months pregnant and you couldn’t have been happier. Save for the constant aches, pains, kicks by the little one and countless sleepless nights, you were happy. Big, fifteen pounds heavier and with a smile on your face.

At this point, it was like nothing could get you down.

That was what you told yourself while you attempted to adjust your sleeping position for the third time in the last hour. Vision, who was always beside you through the night despite not needing any sleep, glanced over at you when you tried to move again.

“Is there something wrong, (Name)?” He asked softly, and you huffed, arching your back in a weak shot at moving.

“Your child is making my life difficult, again.” You mutter, your grumpy tone indicating you weren’t quite as happy as you made yourself out to be (at this moment, anyways). “I just want to get a little sleep, just for one night.”

“I understand.” Vision nodded his head, though you highly doubted that was true. “Is there something I can do?”

“I doubt it.” You respond with a tired sigh, rubbing your tummy with tentative hands. “I’d like to relax a little, but the little one’s not making it easy.”

“Hmm.” Vision hummed in that quiet voice that made you melt, carefully rolling over and stopping in front of you, putting himself face to face with your baby belly. His hands touched your skin in a gentle manner, a soothing touch that you had begun to enjoy an awful lot.

You’d noticed how enamored Vision had become with the child growing inside you, ever since it’d been confirmed inside you within a week after you tried for one. Since you’d begun to get bigger, his hands had wandered down to your womb more often than you would have guessed.

It made you happy more than anything, seeing how much he adored the baby. You could only imagine how much he’d love on them when they were born. You definitely didn’t doubt how good of a father he would be, that was for sure.

Being mentally connected to the Internet did give him a million times parenting advantage than most, after all.

“You should be gentle with your mother, little one.” Vision murmured, his eyes so focused you were near convinced he was making eye contact with the baby inside. “You will deprive her of much sleep in the future. Don’t deny rest to her, now.”

“I think they’re going to whether they want to or not, dear.” You chuckle tiredly, running your hand over his. Vision gave yours a small squeeze before floating away from you and returning to his place on the bed.

“I would not be so sure. Perhaps you should give sleeping another try, though. You might get...a small chance, if anything.”

“...You didn’t do any of that weird telepathic stuff to our child, did you?” You asked him, watching the tiniest quirk of his lips before he turned away to focus on whatever it was he had been working on before. You shook your head, knowing that he wouldn’t just be a good father; he’d be the weirdest, too.

“It is not as easy to communicate with the fetus as it is with conscious people, but...I have been in contact with them every now and again.”

“No way. You were talking to the baby?” You stared at him with wide eyes, and his smile widened, dipping his head to confirm. “That’s insane. Why didn’t you tell me that before? That’s crazy!”

“I thought you might find it hard to believe. That, and it’s not always a stable connection. It’s...difficult to explain.” He replied, making you grin.

“Amazing as usual, Vision.” You compliment him, resting your head against your pillow, staring up at him curiously. “What, um, what do they say? Do you know what gender it is? Or what it feels like in there? How are they doing?”

“I cannot answer all those questions.” He laughs quietly, eyes shining. “But I can confirm that the baby is well. It likes how warm it is inside there.” He points to your stomach, and your hand comes to rest on it again.

“Is that so? Glad you’re enjoying the toastiness, kiddo. It won’t last much longer.” You say, earning a tiny kick to your palm. You giggle, turning back to Vision. “What else did they say?”

“I know it will not be a half android. I already asked it that question.” He continued, and that made you laugh louder.

“You seriously asked the baby that question?”

“I thought it was...possible.” He attempted to defend himself, making you shake your head again. “They did not respond directly, however. I believe it mentioned that it was not sure what an ‘android’ was. I tried to explain, but I lost connection.”

“I guess it’s a secret after all!” You smile, feeling your eyelids grow heavier. It was late, after all. Vision noticed you beginning to grow sleepier, and reached a hand out, stroking your hair.

“I suppose we will have to wait and find out, won’t we?” He replied, curling an arm around you. The warmth radiating off him was pleasant, serving to make your sleepiness heavier with every second. “I think it’s time you got to sleep.”

“I think you’re right…” You sigh, leaning against him and letting yourself drift off in his arms. There wasn’t a much better way to get to sleep, honestly.

He was fairly adept at making you fall asleep.

~*~

Vision watched over you while you dozed, cautiously adjusting himself so that he was no longer losing feeling in his arm and shifted you so you were tucked under the covers. He enjoyed watching you sleep, as creepy as it sounded; it wasn’t often he saw you so relaxed.

’It’s only a matter of time now, isn’t it?’ He thought to himself, eyes falling to your swollen tummy. He ran his fingers over the bump hidden by the comforter, making the connection fuzzier than usual. ’I hope you won’t cause her too much pain, tonight.’

’I’ll try not to.’

’Good.’ He smiled, hearing the toneless voice respond. It was like a strange, soft whisper. A mixture of your thoughts and his, manifesting in a fuzzy wave of static. ’She’s looking forward to meeting you, as am I.’

’I know. I want to meet you, too.’

’When do you plan on arriving?’ Vision questioned next, one that he had asked more than once. Every other time, the answer was ’I’m not sure’ or ’Wait and see’. Other times it was too unclear to make out. He was always curious, and he was even more so now that the moment was coming close.

’Now.’

’...What?’

“Ugh…” You suddenly stirred in your sleep, a soft popping noise alerting Vision that something was happening. His brow furrowed, fingers escaping from your side to grasp your shoulder. “V-Vision, I don’t feel so great.”

Your groan was met by a concerned noise, his hand looping around your back to help hoist you up from the struggling position you were currently in.

“M-my water broke.” You gasped, feeling a shudder go down his spine. Vision grimaced, careful to lift you from the bed and find you a different pair of pants to wear, considering yours were currently soaked through.

“They told me they were coming after all.” He murmured, flying to the other end of the room to snatch the overnight bag, and took hold of you, carefully taking you both out of the bedroom and heading for the elevator. “I am guessing you don’t want me to fly you to the hospital?”

“At this altitude?” You laughed, but it was dry and rather impatient sounding, “I know you’re-- hnngh-- j-joking!”

“You are not wrong.” He set you to your feet, bringing the both of you down to the first floor and clinging tightly to you the entire time. You were beginning to convulse, more and more often. Pain was wracked on your face, eyes barely opening even after he took you outside and settled you in the car.

“A-and to think I was finally getting a decent night’s sleep, too.” You said between grit teeth. Vision snapped you in carefully, touching your forehead.

“Do not worry. I will be right back.” He said cryptically, making you start.

“W-what? Where are you going??” You watched him begin to float away, a strange expression on his face. “I’m kind of going into labor!”

“Someone has to drive.” He replied, and with that he rocketed upward. You didn’t hear him phase onto Tony’s floor, but you definitely heard him phase out because said billionaire screamed.

“Dear God, what is your father doing--?” You choked out before another wave of pain hit, which Vision took note of when he returned to the ground, Tony still screaming after being dropped onto the asphalt. “Vision, what’s going on?!”

“What the Hell, Vision?!”

“(Name) is going into labor. You need to drive.”

“At three in the morning?!”

“I would assume you are awake enough now to be able to drive safely. Please don’t make her wait any longer, we’re on a time limit.” Vision told him, going so far as to open the door for Tony to get in. Tony grumbled something about “kidnapping” and “terrorist robot” before starting up the car.

“T-thanks, Tony. I owe you one…!” You say between grit teeth, and he shook his head. At least he was wearing a shirt to bed...and pants.

“You’re lucky you weren’t interrupting anything important.” He muttered before finally pulling out of the lot. You would make up for it later, but right now you were more focused on the fantastically painful contractions that were tearing your body up.

“Sure, whatever. Just don’t go making a mess in my car. Also, tell my psycho robot child to not throw me down 75 floors of a building. ...God, it’s too early for this.”

“S-sorry!” You yelp, wondering where your husband had gone. Though you managed to catch sight of a green and gold caped figure flying not too far ahead of you over the traffic. He was protecting you, as usual.

Hopefully he’d be able to protect the baby, too.

~*~

If the adrenaline rush from being flown out of his penthouse room to the ground in four seconds didn’t keep him awake, you screaming in the car definitely did. He couldn’t have been more thankful to get you out of there and into the hospital, seriously.

Partially so he could hear again, and partially so they’d help you hurt a little less.

You were brought into a room near instantly after being carried in by a strange Christmas tree man and Tony Stark backing you up. Currently you were in your bed, pitocin injected into your hand and the epidural ready any second.

All you had to do was dilate. If only it were so easy for you.

Your hand gripped Vision’s, riding out wave after wave of contractions, pressing yourself into the hospital bed. You could feel his gaze on you, eyes constantly flitting over your body. You could tell he was worried, even if his expression remained cold and hard.

“I-it’s gonna be okay.” You promised, squeezing his hand, “This is just a p-part of the process.”

“I am aware,” He replied softly, “I researched it after we first found out.”

“G-good to know you’re prepared.” You said between clenched teeth, growling in pain when yet another contraction hit. One of the doctors assigned to look after you came in, checking you to see how it was going. You managed to glance down at the man, asking, “H-how much longer?”

“You’ve dilated three centimeters, ma’am.” He replied, looking a touch concerned. He turned to the nurse standing next to you, checking your pitocin levels. “Lower her dosage,” He told her, “And check back in a few hours. If she doesn’t dilate after 23, we’re arranging for a C-section.”

“T-twenty-three?” You looked up at Vision, feeling his eyes lock on your body. The doctor nodded, straightening up and glancing at his clipboard.

“You’re not dilating as quickly as expected,” He explained to you, “It’s likely you won’t be fully dilated under the time limit we need. After 24 hours it’s risky to continue waiting, but we’ll have to see how it goes. It’s likely we’ll have to perform a Caesarean if you aren’t ready.”

“I-I see.” You swallowed thickly, grasping the sheets with one hand and destroying Vision’s with the other. You shared a look with him that said everything.

”There’s danger, here.”

~*~*~*~

Hours passed, and you’d begun to lose track. Vision attempted to speak to you, but couldn’t do much more than tell you what time it was. Everything else was drowned out by your voice, and his was more like static in your ears than anything.

Four hours...seven...twelve…

Nothing happened. You were still stuck in the bed, still hurting, and all you could do was sweat it out and wait. Vision wasn’t sure how to describe what he was feeling, but the symptoms were similar to something called anxiety, according to WebMD.

“Y-you don’t have to-- a-agh...stay. You can leave i-if you need to.” You tell him, and a twinge of guilt touches his heart. Of course you were able to read him, despite nobody else being able to do the same. It was part of what made you so special, but didn’t help when he was trying to be strong.

“That will not be necessary.” He replied, switching hands for you to hold, “I will be here with you the whole time.”

“T-thanks.” You whispered, managing a smile before the 176th contraction hit.

Vision lost count of the hours after eighteen. He never once stepped out, bless his artificial heart. You could tell between the white pain blinding your eyes, he was concerned beyond understanding. If he could take the pain away, he would in an instant. Especially since he couldn’t feel pain, himself.

“Doctor.” Vision addressed the man, just as he walked into the room yet again. He’d began to enter frequently, a pinched smile on his face every time the results were still barely moving. “How is she?”

“She’s at seven… That’s not enough, I’m afraid.” He glanced at the time, scribbling notes on his clipboard. “We may have to schedule for a C-section, be prepared for that. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, I need to prep the room for surgery.”

“Wait a moment, is that really-” The door shut behind him, Vision staring at the door, “Necessary…”

“C-section, huh.” You ground your teeth, your head pressing against the pillow. “I-it’s not gonna be so bad…!”

“They’re cutting you open and taking the baby out unnaturally. That is not good.” Vision told you, his eyes falling to your stomach.

“U-unless you can convince them to come out by themselves, i-it’s not happening!” You replied with a strained voice, but the man was two steps ahead of you.

His hand pressed against your stomach, eyes falling shut as he searched for the baby. ’Can you hear me, little one? I understand you’re a bit...busy.’

’I’m here.’ He breathed a small sigh of relief, squeezing your hand tightly when you shuddered through another contraction.

’Your mother is in danger of having a surgery performed to birth you, child.’

’I know.’

’I need you to give your mother more time, do you understand? It will be safer for you and your mother.'

'I can't.'

Vision paused when the words passed through his mind. As if he wasn't worried enough, he heard the two words that made it far worse.

'What do you mean, you can't?'

'Mommy won't be ready. I won't fit through. I have to come out now.'

"W-what did they say?" You panted, and Vision looked stunned, looking up at you with an expression you never thought you'd have to see; fear.

"They...they cannot come out on their own. You will not be ready in time."

"W-what??"

"We have to alert the doctors immediately, the baby's life is in danger." He released your hand, starting for the door.

"V-Vision, wait a second! How do you- rrgh..." It was useless trying to stop him, he was already gone. You'd never seen him so tense in your entire life, and you weren't sure if that scared you more.

"Doctor!" Vision's call caught Tony's attention, who had left and returned after twelve hours with Pepper alongside him. They shared a glance before approaching Vision, who had literally cornered the doctor.

"What's going on? Where's (Name)?" Tony asked in as easy a tone he could manage, but seeing Vision so worried made it concerning for him, as well.

"The baby needs to come out, now. Please, you must hurry, there isn't much time left." Vision towered over the doctor, who stared up at him like he was crazy.

"I'm sorry, sir?"

"Just trust him, he knows what he's talking about." Tony assured the doctor, the man was naturally inclined to listen, considering who's paying the bills.

"If you say so, Mr. Stark. Let's get this started, then. Ms. Matsuoka, please alert the team we're getting started immediately."

"Yes sir!" A red haired nurse replied, spinning on her heel to retrieve those involved with your surgery. Vision had already left for your room, phasing through the door and returning to your side instantly.

“You will be ready soon, (Name). Do not worry.” Vision assured you, grasping your hand tightly once again. Sweat covered your body and you could feel your body ache with exhaustion. You still… Hurt, and all you could do was nod at him, feeling him push the hair away from your face.

Then his hand glided down to your stomach, ’We are getting you out of there, little one. You will be safe.’

’Make sure Mommy is, too.’

’I...will.’ Vision frowned at the strange response, turning his attention back to you. Your eyes met his and they locked on one another’s, and for a moment, the tension between you felt like it froze time itself. It was now or never.

~*~

It was minutes after that, now. Carted into the ER, Vision watched from outside the operating room, his fingers clenched by his sides as he watched the doctors cautiously operate on you. Tony and Pepper stood with him, watching the scene unfold before them.
“She’s gonna be okay, Robocop.” Tony assured, a hand resting on Vision’s shoulder. “She’s a tough cookie. If she can handle you, she can handle having your kid.” Despite Tony’s best efforts at support, Vison couldn’t tear his eyes away from the scene.

“I can only hope that is the case,” he replied quietly, constantly scanning the situation. It was hard to watch; seeing all the blood, watching you face the situation. You remained conscious as they cut into you – it was like some form of medieval torture.

“For someone who sees the good in everything, you seem to worry a lot.” Pepper smiled next to Tony, glancing over to the android. She still found the creation strange to be around, considering he was a tall...red...man-thing.

Slowly, she adjusted, to which Vision recognized with a curt nod.
“It is not that I see the good in everything. I am the physical embodiment of all that is good, and so I choose the path that can only lead to good. However, it is moments like these that make the path...difficult to see.”
“I’m telling you, it’s nothing to worry about. (Name)’s going to be fine.”

No sooner had Tony spoke, had a cry erupted from the other end of the glass. Quickly, all the focus shifted towards it – towards the small, bloody infant in the hands of one of the doctors. Again, everything froze, and Vision couldn’t tear his eyes away in the still moment. That was his child.

He couldn’t help but notice how small he was. But it was only when the baby disappeared from his sight that he noticed a strange unrest in one of the nurses. He followed the red-haired girl’s gaze...to the heart monitor.

”...Doctor, her rate’s slowing down.”

“Would you look at that; I’m a grandfather.” Tony said off-hand, making Pepper roll her eyes. Smiles broke onto both their faces, but it was all Vision could do to stare at the little one. They washed the baby, the doctors stitching up your incision and giving you reassuring words.

The doctor from before stood in front of you now, touching your wrist. Vision watched him, very carefully. His eyes narrowed, seeing the unrest beginning to grow. For some reason, the monitor was beginning to speed up. He stole a glance at your face; you seemed happy, completely oblivious to the flurry beginning to gather around you.

“Looks like we’re gonna have a little Vision running around after all,” Tony nudged the AI, grinning at him, “What’re you gonna name him? I was thinking something like Contacts, or Eye Drop, or something.”

Vision didn’t look away, focusing intensely on the surgeons. They were speaking quicker, moving quicker. The monitor began to slur together.

“That...is a poor play on words.” Vision commented, deciding not to comment on the commotion. Doctors were smart people, they knew what they were doing. Perhaps they were only moving quickly so as to let you see the baby.

Tony and Pepper didn’t seem worried, with Pepper smacking the billionaire’s shoulder. Tony certainly knew how to lighten the mood. “However, we did decide on names, a few months ago. If it was a girl, we agreed on Sophia. If it was a boy, we would name...him…”

”She’s flatlining. Doctor, there’s something wrong, the monitor’s not picking up a heartbeat-”

Vision stopped, eyes transfixed on the sudden flurry of motion around you. Tony looked from Vision to the operating room, the smile quickly fading. Pepper gasped.

Something was wrong.

“What’s happening?” Vision stared inside, moving closer to the glass. Your eyes had closed, and you were limp against the operating table. “Tony, what’s going on?”

“She’s not moving.” Tony mumbled, Pepper suddenly grasping his arm. “Oh, my God, she’s not...she’s-”

Vision’s hands pressed against the wall, eyes flickering. “...No…” He began to phase through. “No, (Name)...”

He walked through the wall, moving straight towards you. He ignored the doctors rushing around you, defibrillators fixed to your chest. Your body lurched, but your eyes remained closed.

“She’s lost too much blood, her heart’s not pumping enough, it’s failing, she’s-”

“What is that man doing in here?”

“Sir, you need to leave! This is a serious operation, you can’t just come in here and-”

“Clear!!”

’You’re dying.’

His fingers touched your face, and you were cold. His breath caught in his throat, heart pounding in his chest.

’You cannot die.’

Slowly, as if in a trance, Vision leaned over you, until his forehead pressed against yours. He ignored the hands pulling at his arm, trying to get him away from you.

’I will not allow it.’

Suddenly, the stone in his forehead began to glow, the stone of infinite power creating a blinding flash of light that enveloped the both of you. His hand pressed against your chest, warmth erupting from his fingertips and flashing through your body.

’You will be all right.’

’...’

’...Vision…?’

His eyes fell shut against your skin.

’You will be all right.’

~*~

You felt a little weird when they brought you into the operating room, but you didn’t think much of it. After all, they’d numbed you silly from the chest down and so it was probably the reason you felt so light-headed and dizzy.

Then your vision began to fade. It flickered, going dark and light again. It blurred, and you weren’t sure what to focus on. The outline of a nurse stepping closer to you came into view, but only a moment. Someone touched your wrist, but you weren’t following the situation.

’Something’s wrong.’ Your thought was like a whisper in a roar of static, but you couldn’t question it. Your body didn’t want to function. The lightheaded feeling worsened, and the room began to spin. You blinked rapidly, trying to focus. ’Why can’t I see?’

“She’s lost too much blood, her heart’s not pumping enough, it’s failing, she’s-”

’Blood…?

In the distance, you thought you heard a sharp, small cry. It sounded like a newborn. Your little one.

That was the last thing you could remember before everything went dark.

You didn’t recall closing your eyes, but you could tell you weren’t awake anymore. Wherever you were, you weren’t sure.

’It’s...nice.’

Your body relaxed against nothing, and yet you felt so at peace. It was strange, in a way you weren’t sure was good or bad.

’It’s so relaxing, and calm… What is this place…?’

’You’re dying.’ Out of nothing, you heard the faintest voice. It was like a whisper, but you weren’t sure it belonged to. Your brow furrowed, and you tried to turn towards the voice.

’Dying? But how?’ A realization struck you, like the tiniest twitch of your finger. ’Is it because of the baby? The baby, where are they…? I need to see them, did they make it out all right?’

’You cannot die.’ The voice grew louder, and you nodded. You couldn’t die, they were right; you had a family now, and you couldn’t leave them. The very thought made the strange, ethereal darkness turn cold and fearful.

’I can’t die, I can’t leave them, that’s not...it’s cruel.’ Your thought echoed in your mind, the cold becoming worse around you. You couldn’t just stay here; you needed to find the light.

But your body wouldn’t move.

’I will not allow it.’ The voice grew familiar, every word becoming an intonation to a deep, soothing voice you’d heard so many times, in so many ways. You blinked rapidly, forcing your eyes to open.

’There...in the distance…’ You saw the smallest white dot. It was out of place in the blackness, but you welcomed it all the same. Then the dot began to grow, and you found yourself squinting against the harsh light it radiated. ’Wait a second...light?’

It was familiar; a warm, welcoming light you had seen so many times before. You’d stared at it constantly at night when you couldn’t sleep; the Infinity Stone.

’Why is this here? I know you, don’t I…? What are you doing here?’

’You will be all right.’

Suddenly, heat exploded through your chest, ripping through your body and surrounding the darkness in a brilliant golden light that you couldn’t look away from. It felt amazing.

It felt alive.

’...Vision…?’

’You will be all right.’

With that, your eyes slid open. It wasn’t a dream this time, though; you were too sore.

“...” You blinked slowly, staring at the quiet, gray ceiling in front of you. You weren’t in the operating room anymore, the light wasn’t as harsh. You weren’t being blinded by the strange light, either. The Infinity Stone, that had somehow invaded your dream. “...Stone…”

Lazily your head tilted to the side, your blurry vision falling on the figure of Tony, and Pepper lying against him. You blinked rapidly in an attempt to focus, and you could have sworn you saw tear stains on Pepper’s face.

’Huh...I wonder why she was crying.’

’So you’re awake, now?’ You started at the sound of someone else’s voice in your head, eyes flying wide open. That was weird; either you were hallucinating or you were seriously going crazy. You heard a soft chuckle, ’No, you’re not going crazy.’

’What in the...Vision?’ Your brow furrowed, and you coughed, searching for the android hiding somewhere in the room. Oddly enough, he was nowhere to be found. ’Where are you?’

’I am currently learning how to properly hold our son. I will return to your room in a moment.’ He replied through your mind, which was currently blown after being fried from giving birth. You could now officially declare that you had no idea what was happening anymore.

’How are you in my head? This is...weird.’

’I must admit, it took some getting used to. Particularly when you kept floating in and out of consciousness. You think some strange thoughts, (Name).’

’Thanks, I think… But why are you in here?’ You repeated the question, earning a thought-chuckle from his end. How did brain talk even work…

’It is a side effect of the Infinity Stone. You now have access to my thoughts, and Liam’s. We’re all connected, now. Isn’t that a wonderful thing?’

’The Infinity Stone?’ You repeat his words, gasping softly at the realization. ’Wait a second, the Stone was in my dream. You were, too, I heard you! Was that you?’

’That was not a dream, (Name). That was your consciousness on the edge of death.’ Vision’s reply made your heart beat faster. ’...You suffered heavy blood loss during the procedure, in turn causing your heart to stop pumping what it could not find. I harnessed the Stone’s power to restore what you lost, and surged your heart with infinite energy. If I hadn’t, you...would not have survived.’

’Oh, God… Vision, you...saved my life.’ The realization made your breathing come shallower, and your lips trembled. ’Y-you saved me.’

’If I had not, I knew the burden would be too great for any of us to bear. I thought it was the best choice to make. Life is always the better choice, and this was the only way I could make this happen. You may experience new abilities, aside from mind-reading, but they will be minor.’

’You mean like new powers?’ You thought with a touch of excitement, ’What can I do?’

’For starters, your life span has been drastically increased. In fact, the only way you can die is if you are killed by another person. Otherwise, you will live.’

’...You made me immortal?’

’That is one word for it.’

’That’s amazing, Vision.’

’We can discuss it more, later. But for now, I believe it’s time we introduced you to your son.’ Vision’s thought made your excitement grow, the thought of finally meeting your baby giving you the energy you needed to move.

’I can’t wait anymore! Where are you now?’

“Right outside the door.” Vision’s voice made you look up, and the sight took your breath away. There Vision stood, face as calm and still as ever, but a small, sweet swaddled bundle cradled in his arms. A weak smile broke onto your face. “Hello, (Name).”

“Hey, Vision.” You laugh tiredly, watching him walk towards you with silent steps. You attempted to push yourself up from your bed, but Vision stopped you, coming to sit next to you and help you instead. What you saw near took your breath away; there, in his arms, was a little, fragile bundle of blue blankets and a squeaking baby.

Blue meant boy.

“Say hello to Liam Isaac Stark.” He smiled at you, carefully holding the baby out for you to take. Your arms were stiff, but it was ignored when the little one nestled into your arms. “This is the one I’ve been in contact with the last few months.”

“Oh, Vision…” You breathed, staring at the little boy with wide (e/c) eyes. You could hardly look away. Tiny squeaks escaped his lips, his eyes closed against the blankets. He fell silent when he felt your heartbeat, though, the quiet making you smile. “H-hi there, Liam.”

“He was much smaller than I thought.” Vision murmured, stroking your hair gently as you cooed over your son. “The doctors informed me that he would grow quickly after eating. He will be on a steady diet, I presume?”

“I’ll make sure.” You promised, sniffling with a wobbly smile. “H-he’s gonna grow up and be the healthiest little half-android, half-human baby out there.”

“About that...I don’t think he is actually half-android. I did not use inorganic parts to create him. It is unlikely his DNA will be altered with robotic pieces. Though he will be different, because of the Stone.”

“That’s okay with me.” You wipe away some of the tears in your eyes, holding Liam closer to your chest. “I’m just happy I get to see him like this. T-that I get to hold him… It’s all thanks to you.” You leaned against him.

Vision sighed softly, relishing the warmth from your body. The cold was all gone, now. You were alive and well, and he could hold you close. There was no grief, not today.

“It was the least I could do.” He murmured, lips touching your temple. “I do not think I would constitute for a good parent if I deprived our...son...of his mother.”

“Well, at least you can help it.” You whispered softly, “You’re a special case.”

“Then we’d best enjoy this moment while we can.” He gingerly adjusted to by lying alongside you, wrapping an arm around your shoulder in a polite, tender gesture. “I think we should get used to being around Liam while he’s quiet and calm. It’s my understanding that babies aren’t generally...quiet...when they need something.”

“They tend to need a lot of things, don’t they?” You chuckle, pressing into Vision’s side and basking in his affection. It wasn’t so often he displayed affection in a place like this, but now was as good a time as ever, wasn’t it?

“It is of little consequence.” Vision replied, leaning down to run a finger across Liam’s cheek. “Whatever his needs, we’ll be sure to tend them.”

’You can count on it, Liam.’

’Your mother and I will always be here. ...Literally.’

You giggled at his thought, feeling happier than you did in forever. Staying here, surrounded by your family, you couldn’t have felt more loved and happy. You wished the moment would never end.

Vision thought the exact same thing.

…

……

………

…………

……………

“...Oh, hey, hello-- (Name)! You’re awake!!”

“Tony? You’re awake, too. Good morning, I think?”

“Nice try, it’s actually one p.m. You scared me to death, you know that??”

“Sorry.” You shrug, looking at your friend who came over and wrapped you up in a huge hug.

“Don’t you ever do that again!”

“O-okay, I’ll try not to, but can you lower your voice?”

“Woman, you nearly died and you’re telling me to lower my voice?? Pepper was crying her eyes out!”

“I know, but you’re gonna wake up-”

A sharp little cry interrupted you, earning a sigh from both parents.

“-Liam.”

“...Oh, right. Kid.”

“Yeah, kid.”

“He’ll be fine, he can power through it. No grandson of mine’s gonna cry about noise! I’m gonna be taking him to every party, so if he can’t handle a little loud noise then I’m disowning all of you.”

“If you take my son to a party then we’re disowning you.”

“You can’t do that, I’m the senior member, here!”

“Tony, stop disturbing the peace!”

“But Pepper, they’re-”

“I said stop!”

“Oh, come on!”

~Ende~

Description
The fact you were pregnant was a miracle in and of itself. Vision wasn’t supposed to be able to reproduce, what with being an android and all. But when your best friend is a girl who can manipulate the very fabric of time and space at will, she can bring it upon herself to bestow your rather unique husband with a rather important tool for reproduction.

Here you were now, nine months pregnant and you couldn’t have been happier. Save for the constant aches, pains, kicks by the little one and countless sleepless nights, you were happy. Big, fifteen pounds heavier and with a smile on your face.

At this point, it was like nothing could get you down.

That was what you told yourself while you attempted to adjust your sleeping position for the third time in the last hour. Vision, who was always beside you through the night despite not needing any sleep, glanced over at you when you tried to move again.

“Is there something wrong, (Name)?” He asked softly, and you huffed, arching your back in a weak shot at moving.

“Your child is making my life difficult, again.” You mutter, your grumpy tone indicating you weren’t quite as happy as you made yourself out to be (at this moment, anyways). “I just want to get a little sleep, just for one night.”

“I understand.” Vision nodded his head, though you highly doubted that was true. “Is there something I can do?”

“I doubt it.” You respond with a tired sigh, rubbing your tummy with tentative hands. “I’d like to relax a little, but the little one’s not making it easy.”

“Hmm.” Vision hummed in that quiet voice that made you melt, carefully rolling over and stopping in front of you, putting himself face to face with your baby belly. His hands touched your skin in a gentle manner, a soothing touch that you had begun to enjoy an awful lot.

You’d noticed how enamored Vision had become with the child growing inside you, ever since it’d been confirmed inside you within a week after you tried for one. Since you’d begun to get bigger, his hands had wandered down to your womb more often than you would have guessed.

It made you happy more than anything, seeing how much he adored the baby. You could only imagine how much he’d love on them when they were born. You definitely didn’t doubt how good of a father he would be, that was for sure.

Being mentally connected to the Internet did give him a million times parenting advantage than most, after all.

“You should be gentle with your mother, little one.” Vision murmured, his eyes so focused you were near convinced he was making eye contact with the baby inside. “You will deprive her of much sleep in the future. Don’t deny rest to her, now.”

“I think they’re going to whether they want to or not, dear.” You chuckle tiredly, running your hand over his. Vision gave yours a small squeeze before floating away from you and returning to his place on the bed.

“I would not be so sure. Perhaps you should give sleeping another try, though. You might get...a small chance, if anything.”

“...You didn’t do any of that weird telepathic stuff to our child, did you?” You asked him, watching the tiniest quirk of his lips before he turned away to focus on whatever it was he had been working on before. You shook your head, knowing that he wouldn’t just be a good father; he’d be the weirdest, too.

“It is not as easy to communicate with the fetus as it is with conscious people, but...I have been in contact with them every now and again.”

“No way. You were talking to the baby?” You stared at him with wide eyes, and his smile widened, dipping his head to confirm. “That’s insane. Why didn’t you tell me that before? That’s crazy!”

“I thought you might find it hard to believe. That, and it’s not always a stable connection. It’s...difficult to explain.” He replied, making you grin.

“Amazing as usual, Vision.” You compliment him, resting your head against your pillow, staring up at him curiously. “What, um, what do they say? Do you know what gender it is? Or what it feels like in there? How are they doing?”

“I cannot answer all those questions.” He laughs quietly, eyes shining. “But I can confirm that the baby is well. It likes how warm it is inside there.” He points to your stomach, and your hand comes to rest on it again.

“Is that so? Glad you’re enjoying the toastiness, kiddo. It won’t last much longer.” You say, earning a tiny kick to your palm. You giggle, turning back to Vision. “What else did they say?”

“I know it will not be a half android. I already asked it that question.” He continued, and that made you laugh louder.

“You seriously asked the baby that question?”

“I thought it was...possible.” He attempted to defend himself, making you shake your head again. “They did not respond directly, however. I believe it mentioned that it was not sure what an ‘android’ was. I tried to explain, but I lost connection.”

“I guess it’s a secret after all!” You smile, feeling your eyelids grow heavier. It was late, after all. Vision noticed you beginning to grow sleepier, and reached a hand out, stroking your hair.

“I suppose we will have to wait and find out, won’t we?” He replied, curling an arm around you. The warmth radiating off him was pleasant, serving to make your sleepiness heavier with every second. “I think it’s time you got to sleep.”

“I think you’re right…” You sigh, leaning against him and letting yourself drift off in his arms. There wasn’t a much better way to get to sleep, honestly.

He was fairly adept at making you fall asleep.

~*~

Vision watched over you while you dozed, cautiously adjusting himself so that he was no longer losing feeling in his arm and shifted you so you were tucked under the covers. He enjoyed watching you sleep, as creepy as it sounded; it wasn’t often he saw you so relaxed.

’It’s only a matter of time now, isn’t it?’ He thought to himself, eyes falling to your swollen tummy. He ran his fingers over the bump hidden by the comforter, making the connection fuzzier than usual. ’I hope you won’t cause her too much pain, tonight.’

’I’ll try not to.’

’Good.’ He smiled, hearing the toneless voice respond. It was like a strange, soft whisper. A mixture of your thoughts and his, manifesting in a fuzzy wave of static. ’She’s looking forward to meeting you, as am I.’

’I know. I want to meet you, too.’

’When do you plan on arriving?’ Vision questioned next, one that he had asked more than once. Every other time, the answer was ’I’m not sure’ or ’Wait and see’. Other times it was too unclear to make out. He was always curious, and he was even more so now that the moment was coming close.

’Now.’

’...What?’

“Ugh…” You suddenly stirred in your sleep, a soft popping noise alerting Vision that something was happening. His brow furrowed, fingers escaping from your side to grasp your shoulder. “V-Vision, I don’t feel so great.”

Your groan was met by a concerned noise, his hand looping around your back to help hoist you up from the struggling position you were currently in.

“M-my water broke.” You gasped, feeling a shudder go down his spine. Vision grimaced, careful to lift you from the bed and find you a different pair of pants to wear, considering yours were currently soaked through.

“They told me they were coming after all.” He murmured, flying to the other end of the room to snatch the overnight bag, and took hold of you, carefully taking you both out of the bedroom and heading for the elevator. “I am guessing you don’t want me to fly you to the hospital?”

“At this altitude?” You laughed, but it was dry and rather impatient sounding, “I know you’re-- hnngh-- j-joking!”

“You are not wrong.” He set you to your feet, bringing the both of you down to the first floor and clinging tightly to you the entire time. You were beginning to convulse, more and more often. Pain was wracked on your face, eyes barely opening even after he took you outside and settled you in the car.

“A-and to think I was finally getting a decent night’s sleep, too.” You said between grit teeth. Vision snapped you in carefully, touching your forehead.

“Do not worry. I will be right back.” He said cryptically, making you start.

“W-what? Where are you going??” You watched him begin to float away, a strange expression on his face. “I’m kind of going into labor!”

“Someone has to drive.” He replied, and with that he rocketed upward. You didn’t hear him phase onto Tony’s floor, but you definitely heard him phase out because said billionaire screamed.

“Dear God, what is your father doing--?” You choked out before another wave of pain hit, which Vision took note of when he returned to the ground, Tony still screaming after being dropped onto the asphalt. “Vision, what’s going on?!”

“What the Hell, Vision?!”

“(Name) is going into labor. You need to drive.”

“At three in the morning?!”

“I would assume you are awake enough now to be able to drive safely. Please don’t make her wait any longer, we’re on a time limit.” Vision told him, going so far as to open the door for Tony to get in. Tony grumbled something about “kidnapping” and “terrorist robot” before starting up the car.

“T-thanks, Tony. I owe you one…!” You say between grit teeth, and he shook his head. At least he was wearing a shirt to bed...and pants.

“You’re lucky you weren’t interrupting anything important.” He muttered before finally pulling out of the lot. You would make up for it later, but right now you were more focused on the fantastically painful contractions that were tearing your body up.

“Sure, whatever. Just don’t go making a mess in my car. Also, tell my psycho robot child to not throw me down 75 floors of a building. ...God, it’s too early for this.”

“S-sorry!” You yelp, wondering where your husband had gone. Though you managed to catch sight of a green and gold caped figure flying not too far ahead of you over the traffic. He was protecting you, as usual.

Hopefully he’d be able to protect the baby, too.

~*~

If the adrenaline rush from being flown out of his penthouse room to the ground in four seconds didn’t keep him awake, you screaming in the car definitely did. He couldn’t have been more thankful to get you out of there and into the hospital, seriously.

Partially so he could hear again, and partially so they’d help you hurt a little less.

You were brought into a room near instantly after being carried in by a strange Christmas tree man and Tony Stark backing you up. Currently you were in your bed, pitocin injected into your hand and the epidural ready any second.

All you had to do was dilate. If only it were so easy for you.

Your hand gripped Vision’s, riding out wave after wave of contractions, pressing yourself into the hospital bed. You could feel his gaze on you, eyes constantly flitting over your body. You could tell he was worried, even if his expression remained cold and hard.

“I-it’s gonna be okay.” You promised, squeezing his hand, “This is just a p-part of the process.”

“I am aware,” He replied softly, “I researched it after we first found out.”

“G-good to know you’re prepared.” You said between clenched teeth, growling in pain when yet another contraction hit. One of the doctors assigned to look after you came in, checking you to see how it was going. You managed to glance down at the man, asking, “H-how much longer?”

“You’ve dilated three centimeters, ma’am.” He replied, looking a touch concerned. He turned to the nurse standing next to you, checking your pitocin levels. “Lower her dosage,” He told her, “And check back in a few hours. If she doesn’t dilate after 23, we’re arranging for a C-section.”

“T-twenty-three?” You looked up at Vision, feeling his eyes lock on your body. The doctor nodded, straightening up and glancing at his clipboard.

“You’re not dilating as quickly as expected,” He explained to you, “It’s likely you won’t be fully dilated under the time limit we need. After 24 hours it’s risky to continue waiting, but we’ll have to see how it goes. It’s likely we’ll have to perform a Caesarean if you aren’t ready.”

“I-I see.” You swallowed thickly, grasping the sheets with one hand and destroying Vision’s with the other. You shared a look with him that said everything.

”There’s danger, here.”

~*~*~*~

Hours passed, and you’d begun to lose track. Vision attempted to speak to you, but couldn’t do much more than tell you what time it was. Everything else was drowned out by your voice, and his was more like static in your ears than anything.

Four hours...seven...twelve…

Nothing happened. You were still stuck in the bed, still hurting, and all you could do was sweat it out and wait. Vision wasn’t sure how to describe what he was feeling, but the symptoms were similar to something called anxiety, according to WebMD.

“Y-you don’t have to-- a-agh...stay. You can leave i-if you need to.” You tell him, and a twinge of guilt touches his heart. Of course you were able to read him, despite nobody else being able to do the same. It was part of what made you so special, but didn’t help when he was trying to be strong.

“That will not be necessary.” He replied, switching hands for you to hold, “I will be here with you the whole time.”

“T-thanks.” You whispered, managing a smile before the 176th contraction hit.

Vision lost count of the hours after eighteen. He never once stepped out, bless his artificial heart. You could tell between the white pain blinding your eyes, he was concerned beyond understanding. If he could take the pain away, he would in an instant. Especially since he couldn’t feel pain, himself.

“Doctor.” Vision addressed the man, just as he walked into the room yet again. He’d began to enter frequently, a pinched smile on his face every time the results were still barely moving. “How is she?”

“She’s at seven… That’s not enough, I’m afraid.” He glanced at the time, scribbling notes on his clipboard. “We may have to schedule for a C-section, be prepared for that. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, I need to prep the room for surgery.”

“Wait a moment, is that really-” The door shut behind him, Vision staring at the door, “Necessary…”

“C-section, huh.” You ground your teeth, your head pressing against the pillow. “I-it’s not gonna be so bad…!”

“They’re cutting you open and taking the baby out unnaturally. That is not good.” Vision told you, his eyes falling to your stomach.

“U-unless you can convince them to come out by themselves, i-it’s not happening!” You replied with a strained voice, but the man was two steps ahead of you.

His hand pressed against your stomach, eyes falling shut as he searched for the baby. ’Can you hear me, little one? I understand you’re a bit...busy.’

’I’m here.’ He breathed a small sigh of relief, squeezing your hand tightly when you shuddered through another contraction.

’Your mother is in danger of having a surgery performed to birth you, child.’

’I know.’

’I need you to give your mother more time, do you understand? It will be safer for you and your mother.'

'I can't.'

Vision paused when the words passed through his mind. As if he wasn't worried enough, he heard the two words that made it far worse.

'What do you mean, you can't?'

'Mommy won't be ready. I won't fit through. I have to come out now.'

"W-what did they say?" You panted, and Vision looked stunned, looking up at you with an expression you never thought you'd have to see; fear.

"They...they cannot come out on their own. You will not be ready in time."

"W-what??"

"We have to alert the doctors immediately, the baby's life is in danger." He released your hand, starting for the door.

"V-Vision, wait a second! How do you- rrgh..." It was useless trying to stop him, he was already gone. You'd never seen him so tense in your entire life, and you weren't sure if that scared you more.

"Doctor!" Vision's call caught Tony's attention, who had left and returned after twelve hours with Pepper alongside him. They shared a glance before approaching Vision, who had literally cornered the doctor.

"What's going on? Where's (Name)?" Tony asked in as easy a tone he could manage, but seeing Vision so worried made it concerning for him, as well.

"The baby needs to come out, now. Please, you must hurry, there isn't much time left." Vision towered over the doctor, who stared up at him like he was crazy.

"I'm sorry, sir?"

"Just trust him, he knows what he's talking about." Tony assured the doctor, the man was naturally inclined to listen, considering who's paying the bills.

"If you say so, Mr. Stark. Let's get this started, then. Ms. Matsuoka, please alert the team we're getting started immediately."

"Yes sir!" A red haired nurse replied, spinning on her heel to retrieve those involved with your surgery. Vision had already left for your room, phasing through the door and returning to your side instantly.

“You will be ready soon, (Name). Do not worry.” Vision assured you, grasping your hand tightly once again. Sweat covered your body and you could feel your body ache with exhaustion. You still… Hurt, and all you could do was nod at him, feeling him push the hair away from your face.

Then his hand glided down to your stomach, ’We are getting you out of there, little one. You will be safe.’

’Make sure Mommy is, too.’

’I...will.’ Vision frowned at the strange response, turning his attention back to you. Your eyes met his and they locked on one another’s, and for a moment, the tension between you felt like it froze time itself. It was now or never.

~*~

It was minutes after that, now. Carted into the ER, Vision watched from outside the operating room, his fingers clenched by his sides as he watched the doctors cautiously operate on you. Tony and Pepper stood with him, watching the scene unfold before them.
“She’s gonna be okay, Robocop.” Tony assured, a hand resting on Vision’s shoulder. “She’s a tough cookie. If she can handle you, she can handle having your kid.” Despite Tony’s best efforts at support, Vison couldn’t tear his eyes away from the scene.

“I can only hope that is the case,” he replied quietly, constantly scanning the situation. It was hard to watch; seeing all the blood, watching you face the situation. You remained conscious as they cut into you – it was like some form of medieval torture.

“For someone who sees the good in everything, you seem to worry a lot.” Pepper smiled next to Tony, glancing over to the android. She still found the creation strange to be around, considering he was a tall...red...man-thing.

Slowly, she adjusted, to which Vision recognized with a curt nod.
“It is not that I see the good in everything. I am the physical embodiment of all that is good, and so I choose the path that can only lead to good. However, it is moments like these that make the path...difficult to see.”
“I’m telling you, it’s nothing to worry about. (Name)’s going to be fine.”

No sooner had Tony spoke, had a cry erupted from the other end of the glass. Quickly, all the focus shifted towards it – towards the small, bloody infant in the hands of one of the doctors. Again, everything froze, and Vision couldn’t tear his eyes away in the still moment. That was his child.

He couldn’t help but notice how small he was. But it was only when the baby disappeared from his sight that he noticed a strange unrest in one of the nurses. He followed the red-haired girl’s gaze...to the heart monitor.

”...Doctor, her rate’s slowing down.”

“Would you look at that; I’m a grandfather.” Tony said off-hand, making Pepper roll her eyes. Smiles broke onto both their faces, but it was all Vision could do to stare at the little one. They washed the baby, the doctors stitching up your incision and giving you reassuring words.

The doctor from before stood in front of you now, touching your wrist. Vision watched him, very carefully. His eyes narrowed, seeing the unrest beginning to grow. For some reason, the monitor was beginning to speed up. He stole a glance at your face; you seemed happy, completely oblivious to the flurry beginning to gather around you.

“Looks like we’re gonna have a little Vision running around after all,” Tony nudged the AI, grinning at him, “What’re you gonna name him? I was thinking something like Contacts, or Eye Drop, or something.”

Vision didn’t look away, focusing intensely on the surgeons. They were speaking quicker, moving quicker. The monitor began to slur together.

“That...is a poor play on words.” Vision commented, deciding not to comment on the commotion. Doctors were smart people, they knew what they were doing. Perhaps they were only moving quickly so as to let you see the baby.

Tony and Pepper didn’t seem worried, with Pepper smacking the billionaire’s shoulder. Tony certainly knew how to lighten the mood. “However, we did decide on names, a few months ago. If it was a girl, we agreed on Sophia. If it was a boy, we would name...him…”

”She’s flatlining. Doctor, there’s something wrong, the monitor’s not picking up a heartbeat-”

Vision stopped, eyes transfixed on the sudden flurry of motion around you. Tony looked from Vision to the operating room, the smile quickly fading. Pepper gasped.

Something was wrong.

“What’s happening?” Vision stared inside, moving closer to the glass. Your eyes had closed, and you were limp against the operating table. “Tony, what’s going on?”

“She’s not moving.” Tony mumbled, Pepper suddenly grasping his arm. “Oh, my God, she’s not...she’s-”

Vision’s hands pressed against the wall, eyes flickering. “...No…” He began to phase through. “No, (Name)...”

He walked through the wall, moving straight towards you. He ignored the doctors rushing around you, defibrillators fixed to your chest. Your body lurched, but your eyes remained closed.

“She’s lost too much blood, her heart’s not pumping enough, it’s failing, she’s-”

“What is that man doing in here?”

“Sir, you need to leave! This is a serious operation, you can’t just come in here and-”

“Clear!!”

’You’re dying.’

His fingers touched your face, and you were cold. His breath caught in his throat, heart pounding in his chest.

’You cannot die.’

Slowly, as if in a trance, Vision leaned over you, until his forehead pressed against yours. He ignored the hands pulling at his arm, trying to get him away from you.

’I will not allow it.’

Suddenly, the stone in his forehead began to glow, the stone of infinite power creating a blinding flash of light that enveloped the both of you. His hand pressed against your chest, warmth erupting from his fingertips and flashing through your body.

’You will be all right.’

’...’

’...Vision…?’

His eyes fell shut against your skin.

’You will be all right.’

~*~

You felt a little weird when they brought you into the operating room, but you didn’t think much of it. After all, they’d numbed you silly from the chest down and so it was probably the reason you felt so light-headed and dizzy.

Then your vision began to fade. It flickered, going dark and light again. It blurred, and you weren’t sure what to focus on. The outline of a nurse stepping closer to you came into view, but only a moment. Someone touched your wrist, but you weren’t following the situation.

’Something’s wrong.’ Your thought was like a whisper in a roar of static, but you couldn’t question it. Your body didn’t want to function. The lightheaded feeling worsened, and the room began to spin. You blinked rapidly, trying to focus. ’Why can’t I see?’

“She’s lost too much blood, her heart’s not pumping enough, it’s failing, she’s-”

’Blood…?

In the distance, you thought you heard a sharp, small cry. It sounded like a newborn. Your little one.

That was the last thing you could remember before everything went dark.

You didn’t recall closing your eyes, but you could tell you weren’t awake anymore. Wherever you were, you weren’t sure.

’It’s...nice.’

Your body relaxed against nothing, and yet you felt so at peace. It was strange, in a way you weren’t sure was good or bad.

’It’s so relaxing, and calm… What is this place…?’

’You’re dying.’ Out of nothing, you heard the faintest voice. It was like a whisper, but you weren’t sure it belonged to. Your brow furrowed, and you tried to turn towards the voice.

’Dying? But how?’ A realization struck you, like the tiniest twitch of your finger. ’Is it because of the baby? The baby, where are they…? I need to see them, did they make it out all right?’

’You cannot die.’ The voice grew louder, and you nodded. You couldn’t die, they were right; you had a family now, and you couldn’t leave them. The very thought made the strange, ethereal darkness turn cold and fearful.

’I can’t die, I can’t leave them, that’s not...it’s cruel.’ Your thought echoed in your mind, the cold becoming worse around you. You couldn’t just stay here; you needed to find the light.

But your body wouldn’t move.

’I will not allow it.’ The voice grew familiar, every word becoming an intonation to a deep, soothing voice you’d heard so many times, in so many ways. You blinked rapidly, forcing your eyes to open.

’There...in the distance…’ You saw the smallest white dot. It was out of place in the blackness, but you welcomed it all the same. Then the dot began to grow, and you found yourself squinting against the harsh light it radiated. ’Wait a second...light?’

It was familiar; a warm, welcoming light you had seen so many times before. You’d stared at it constantly at night when you couldn’t sleep; the Infinity Stone.

’Why is this here? I know you, don’t I…? What are you doing here?’

’You will be all right.’

Suddenly, heat exploded through your chest, ripping through your body and surrounding the darkness in a brilliant golden light that you couldn’t look away from. It felt amazing.

It felt alive.

’...Vision…?’

’You will be all right.’

With that, your eyes slid open. It wasn’t a dream this time, though; you were too sore.

“...” You blinked slowly, staring at the quiet, gray ceiling in front of you. You weren’t in the operating room anymore, the light wasn’t as harsh. You weren’t being blinded by the strange light, either. The Infinity Stone, that had somehow invaded your dream. “...Stone…”

Lazily your head tilted to the side, your blurry vision falling on the figure of Tony, and Pepper lying against him. You blinked rapidly in an attempt to focus, and you could have sworn you saw tear stains on Pepper’s face.

’Huh...I wonder why she was crying.’

’So you’re awake, now?’ You started at the sound of someone else’s voice in your head, eyes flying wide open. That was weird; either you were hallucinating or you were seriously going crazy. You heard a soft chuckle, ’No, you’re not going crazy.’

’What in the...Vision?’ Your brow furrowed, and you coughed, searching for the android hiding somewhere in the room. Oddly enough, he was nowhere to be found. ’Where are you?’

’I am currently learning how to properly hold our son. I will return to your room in a moment.’ He replied through your mind, which was currently blown after being fried from giving birth. You could now officially declare that you had no idea what was happening anymore.

’How are you in my head? This is...weird.’

’I must admit, it took some getting used to. Particularly when you kept floating in and out of consciousness. You think some strange thoughts, (Name).’

’Thanks, I think… But why are you in here?’ You repeated the question, earning a thought-chuckle from his end. How did brain talk even work…

’It is a side effect of the Infinity Stone. You now have access to my thoughts, and Liam’s. We’re all connected, now. Isn’t that a wonderful thing?’

’The Infinity Stone?’ You repeat his words, gasping softly at the realization. ’Wait a second, the Stone was in my dream. You were, too, I heard you! Was that you?’

’That was not a dream, (Name). That was your consciousness on the edge of death.’ Vision’s reply made your heart beat faster. ’...You suffered heavy blood loss during the procedure, in turn causing your heart to stop pumping what it could not find. I harnessed the Stone’s power to restore what you lost, and surged your heart with infinite energy. If I hadn’t, you...would not have survived.’

’Oh, God… Vision, you...saved my life.’ The realization made your breathing come shallower, and your lips trembled. ’Y-you saved me.’

’If I had not, I knew the burden would be too great for any of us to bear. I thought it was the best choice to make. Life is always the better choice, and this was the only way I could make this happen. You may experience new abilities, aside from mind-reading, but they will be minor.’

’You mean like new powers?’ You thought with a touch of excitement, ’What can I do?’

’For starters, your life span has been drastically increased. In fact, the only way you can die is if you are killed by another person. Otherwise, you will live.’

’...You made me immortal?’

’That is one word for it.’

’That’s amazing, Vision.’

’We can discuss it more, later. But for now, I believe it’s time we introduced you to your son.’ Vision’s thought made your excitement grow, the thought of finally meeting your baby giving you the energy you needed to move.

’I can’t wait anymore! Where are you now?’

“Right outside the door.” Vision’s voice made you look up, and the sight took your breath away. There Vision stood, face as calm and still as ever, but a small, sweet swaddled bundle cradled in his arms. A weak smile broke onto your face. “Hello, (Name).”

“Hey, Vision.” You laugh tiredly, watching him walk towards you with silent steps. You attempted to push yourself up from your bed, but Vision stopped you, coming to sit next to you and help you instead. What you saw near took your breath away; there, in his arms, was a little, fragile bundle of blue blankets and a squeaking baby.

Blue meant boy.

“Say hello to Liam Isaac Stark.” He smiled at you, carefully holding the baby out for you to take. Your arms were stiff, but it was ignored when the little one nestled into your arms. “This is the one I’ve been in contact with the last few months.”

“Oh, Vision…” You breathed, staring at the little boy with wide (e/c) eyes. You could hardly look away. Tiny squeaks escaped his lips, his eyes closed against the blankets. He fell silent when he felt your heartbeat, though, the quiet making you smile. “H-hi there, Liam.”

“He was much smaller than I thought.” Vision murmured, stroking your hair gently as you cooed over your son. “The doctors informed me that he would grow quickly after eating. He will be on a steady diet, I presume?”

“I’ll make sure.” You promised, sniffling with a wobbly smile. “H-he’s gonna grow up and be the healthiest little half-android, half-human baby out there.”

“About that...I don’t think he is actually half-android. I did not use inorganic parts to create him. It is unlikely his DNA will be altered with robotic pieces. Though he will be different, because of the Stone.”

“That’s okay with me.” You wipe away some of the tears in your eyes, holding Liam closer to your chest. “I’m just happy I get to see him like this. T-that I get to hold him… It’s all thanks to you.” You leaned against him.

Vision sighed softly, relishing the warmth from your body. The cold was all gone, now. You were alive and well, and he could hold you close. There was no grief, not today.

“It was the least I could do.” He murmured, lips touching your temple. “I do not think I would constitute for a good parent if I deprived our...son...of his mother.”

“Well, at least you can help it.” You whispered softly, “You’re a special case.”

“Then we’d best enjoy this moment while we can.” He gingerly adjusted to by lying alongside you, wrapping an arm around your shoulder in a polite, tender gesture. “I think we should get used to being around Liam while he’s quiet and calm. It’s my understanding that babies aren’t generally...quiet...when they need something.”

“They tend to need a lot of things, don’t they?” You chuckle, pressing into Vision’s side and basking in his affection. It wasn’t so often he displayed affection in a place like this, but now was as good a time as ever, wasn’t it?

“It is of little consequence.” Vision replied, leaning down to run a finger across Liam’s cheek. “Whatever his needs, we’ll be sure to tend them.”

’You can count on it, Liam.’

’Your mother and I will always be here. ...Literally.’

You giggled at his thought, feeling happier than you did in forever. Staying here, surrounded by your family, you couldn’t have felt more loved and happy. You wished the moment would never end.

Vision thought the exact same thing.

…

……

………

…………

……………

“...Oh, hey, hello-- (Name)! You’re awake!!”

“Tony? You’re awake, too. Good morning, I think?”

“Nice try, it’s actually one p.m. You scared me to death, you know that??”

“Sorry.” You shrug, looking at your friend who came over and wrapped you up in a huge hug.

“Don’t you ever do that again!”

“O-okay, I’ll try not to, but can you lower your voice?”

“Woman, you nearly died and you’re telling me to lower my voice?? Pepper was crying her eyes out!”

“I know, but you’re gonna wake up-”

A sharp little cry interrupted you, earning a sigh from both parents.

“-Liam.”

“...Oh, right. Kid.”

“Yeah, kid.”

“He’ll be fine, he can power through it. No grandson of mine’s gonna cry about noise! I’m gonna be taking him to every party, so if he can’t handle a little loud noise then I’m disowning all of you.”

“If you take my son to a party then we’re disowning you.”

“You can’t do that, I’m the senior member, here!”

“Tony, stop disturbing the peace!”

“But Pepper, they’re-”

“I said stop!”

“Oh, come on!”

~Ende~