Why did Gladio think Tony had any idea what this was either? Some of the confusion was because it was confusing. They were one thing on the train, but here? They were something else and Gladio didn't need the mess that was Tony Stark on top of all of his own burdens. It seemed so selfish to want a man who was half his age and didn't have a fraction of the baggage the superhero carried. He wanted to do what was right here, right for Gladio.

Hearing that confirmed, Tony nodded and his lip curled upward. He had at least one thing he wanted and he could tell himself to be satisfied with that.

His smile faded away again and he listened to the explanation. He understood, even if it hurt. "You know.. I've only ever used 'darling' for two others- no, three, I forgot about Morgan- before. Pepper and Ignis. I can understand if you don't want to be called that but.. maybe you could tell me some you're okay with? Assuming we ever get swept up in the moment again? And just so you're aware, if you don't want me telling you so many sweet things during or after sex.. you could say them to me. You might not realize this, but I do love compliments." He was making a bit of a joke here, but not really. Since the topic had been broached, why not see if he could get some more information about what Gladio liked and didn't like?