[No, it can’t be that easy, can it? It’s a complicated situation, and Stephen knows he is giving the most sweeping answer that a mind like Tony’s can’t just accept. Can’t just nod, say okay, and move on with his life.

But this situation is delicate. He isn’t even sure if he’s handling it the way he should, and for Stephen, this lack of knowing and control rankles him. Sits like burs under his skin, a quiet anxiety that he keeps partitioned in his skull—turning over and over—but keeping it from shadowing his demeanor. Especially now. Especially in front of Stark.]

Wanda won’t throw a bus at you.

[Circling around his actual request, maybe it’s to buy time, but he does trust her. (If quietly glad he’s glad he never had to deal with Avenger drama himself.)]

And I know you’re wanting me to give you the details, give every ounce of information I can spare, but I can’t. I just can’t — I don’t know how just this very conversation might affect the events of our return home.

[Maybe they’re all royally screwed already. Maybe his caution means nothing. But he can’t take that chance.]

I’m not willing to risk… undoing our victory after all we’ve been through. Can’t you just trust me?