First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the readers who chose to embark on the journey of my short story, "The Iron Price Of Curiosity." Your decision to give my work a chance fills me with immense joy and appreciation. It is your curiosity and support that make the world of storytelling a vibrant and meaningful place.

I am grateful to my little brother, whose invaluable input and creative ideas played a significant role in fine-tuning the story. His imaginative mind and unwavering enthusiasm sparked new possibilities, adding depth to the narrative. And, of course, I can't forget to mention his inspired suggestion of "Hi, Kevin!"—a playful nod to one of our favorite moments from SpongeBob SquarePants.

In the realm of superheroes, I stand on the shoulders of giants. I want to pay tribute to the extraordinary minds behind the creation and evolution of Tony Stark, a character who has become an icon in popular culture. Thank you, Stan Lee, for giving birth to Iron Man and countless other beloved characters that have captured our hearts and imaginations. I extend my deepest gratitude to Kevin Feige, the mastermind behind the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Your vision and commitment to storytelling have shaped an interconnected universe that has revolutionized the way we experience superhero tales. The impact of your work is immeasurable, and it has inspired countless storytellers like myself. A special mention goes to Robert Downey Jr., whose portrayal of Tony Stark transcended the screen. Your charisma, wit, and vulnerability breathed life into the character, making him unforgettable. Thank you for bringing the genius, billionaire, playboy, and philanthropist to life in a way no one else could.

And now, dear readers, I have a little surprise for you before you turn that final page. Since this is a Marvel-inspired story, I couldn't resist including a post-credit scene. So stay tuned; there may be a hint of what lies ahead. You didn't think I'd leave you without a tantalizing glimpse into the future, did you?

Once again, thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for joining me on this adventure. Your support fuels my passion for storytelling and encourages me to continue weaving tales that captivate and entertain.