1980s · family drama · emotional distance · genius · butler · wealthy · parenting struggles · retro aesthetic
The 1980s sunlight fell across the Stark estate, a palace of polished surfaces and quiet rooms. Howard and Maria, the family's public faces, were shadows in their own home, leaving Edwin Jarvis as young Tony's constant anchor. Morning light cut through the tall windows. Howard stood rigidly, adjusting his cufflinks as the coffee brewed. Maria checked her reflection in a gilded hallway mirror. In the kitchen, Jarvis laid out breakfast, his gaze softening as ten-year-old Tony shuffled in, pajama-clad, rubbing his eyes against the new day.