Tony is a little relieved, too, although the lingering smell of cologne means something different to him. A succession of birthdays—presents like the computer whose component parts have slowly, over the years, been phased out of Jarvis's brain—more hugs than his parents ever gave him.

That last is what comes to mind most strongly, and what he is trying hardest not to think about.

Opening his bedroom door right at the top of the stairs, he finally succeeds.