Marvel: Starting from the Snap

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Encountering a character from the original story for the first time stirred complex emotions in Luke. In a way, Happy Hogan was both the most familiar stranger and a key to bridging Luke's past knowledge with his current reality.

As they walked through Stark Industries, Luke didn't pay much attention to the surroundings. Instead, his focus was almost entirely on Happy.

His first impression of the man was positive.

While Happy looked different from what Luke remembered, that was to be expected. In the movies, Happy was often a comedic sidekick—a supporting character who was overshadowed by heroes like Tony Stark and Spider-Man. He played the role of the ever-loyal assistant, often in a subordinate position.

However, the man walking ahead of Luke now was different. As one of Stark Industries' top executives, Happy exuded a confident, professional demeanor. There was an air of competence and reliability about him—a stark contrast to the Happy in Luke's memories.

"Here's my office," Happy said, turning down a hallway and leading Luke to a private office at the end.

The room was spacious and bright, radiating luxury.

Luke's surprise must have been obvious because Happy straightened his back, puffing out his chest a little. With a small, proud smile, he explained, "I'm now Stark Industries' Chief Financial Officer. I oversee and manage all of Tony's fixed assets, including the upstate Avengers facility and some of your agency's facilities."

So, he's not just a security chief anymore, Luke thought. It seems Tony Stark really trusts him.

"No wonder my superiors sent me here," Luke remarked lightly. "Given your position, this industrial park is likely one of the safest places we could access."

"Exactly," Happy replied, gesturing to a seat. "Take a seat."

Without hesitation, Luke pulled out a chair and sat across from him.

"You're the CFO, yet you're staying here instead of managing the chaos outside," Luke remarked. "A crisis like this must be causing significant financial losses for the company."

Happy sighed, his expression growing heavy. "Believe me, I want to. But it's not that simple. You saw the state of our employees when you walked in, didn't you? They're emotionally shattered."

Luke didn't argue. He had seen firsthand how chaotic and devastating the situation outside was.

"The number of missing people hasn't even been fully counted yet," Happy continued. "And those who are still here are more concerned about their families than their work. For now, just keeping them calm is an achievement. Everything else can wait."

Happy paused before looking directly at Luke. There was a seriousness in his eyes as he asked, "I have to ask—what's the situation with Tony Stark? Is he... okay?"

Luke had expected this question.

"I don't know much more than you do," Luke admitted after a moment of hesitation. "Tony boarded that alien ship, and we've lost the ability to monitor his situation since then."

"I see..." Happy's face didn't betray much emotion—he must have anticipated this answer.

"But," Luke added, "I believe Tony Stark is still alive."

Happy raised an eyebrow, puzzled by Luke's confidence.

"He's Iron Man, isn't he?" Luke said with conviction. "He's faced countless dangers and always comes out on top."

Happy's grim expression softened. Forcing a small smile, he nodded. "Right. He's Iron Man. Nothing can bring him down."

Despite his words, Happy was clearly prepared for the worst. Memories of the last alien invasion in New York flashed through his mind—Tony had barely survived that encounter. This time, the stakes were even higher.

After a brief silence, Happy spoke again, his tone heavy with meaning. "Do you think what's happening outside has something to do with Tony and the Avengers?"

Happy's question was direct, and Luke took a moment to consider his response.

"From what I know, Captain Rogers and the others were engaged in a battle with an alien fleet in Wakanda," Luke began. "The exact identity of their enemy is still unclear, but given the situation now, something must have gone wrong on their end."

Happy nodded slowly, understanding the implications. "I appreciate your honesty, even if this isn't something you're supposed to share. Thank you, Agent Kaya."

"We both hate seeing the world in this state," Luke replied. "But we can't change it. All we can do now is focus on our responsibilities."

As if on cue, the sound of a sonic boom echoed from outside. A plane had just arrived.

Both men stood up. Happy extended his hand.

"You're right. We need to focus on the tasks at hand. That's our responsibility."

Luke shook Happy's hand but couldn't fully conceal the tension in his expression. The sound of the arriving aircraft only made him more anxious.

Happy, too preoccupied to notice, reached for a card on his desk and handed it to Luke.

"You're not like most agents I've met," Happy said. "Here's my card. If you ever need my help, don't hesitate to call. I'll do whatever I can."

"Thank you."

Luke carefully placed the card in his pocket.

This was his first real connection in this world—a potential ally and perhaps even a friend. If his plans with S.H.I.E.L.D. didn't work out, Happy might be the only one he could turn to.

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*Author's Note:*

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