FIC: These Days Are Ours, Pt 2
Hey all, this is the story that some of you have been requesting to see. 4persephone and I wrote this awhile back, as a Halloween inspired little ficlet where Tony gets to interact with some kiddos.
Author: 4persephone and NeonDaisies
Rating: T for Teen
Words: 9594 total, 5872 this part
Spoilers: IM1, slight
Chapters: 1
Status: Complete
The cooks and waiters are all in costume as are a lot of the kids. They run around in groups watching the live demonstrations on how to properly toss pizza dough, a few of them trying their hands at it under the staff’s watchful eyes. Parents who’ve given up on more than marginal crowd control sit at tables sipping their drinks. It’s chaos given form and a kind of impromptu dinner theater and Tony is absolutely absorbed in watching it all.
Pepper is sitting beside him with an equally enraptured Eduardo sitting in her lap; the little boy’s mask is up and he’s finishing the crust of his pizza. On Pepper’s other side Gabrielle Ramos is making her way through her third slice of pepperoni.
Gabby had ventured into the masses for awhile as they’d waited for their food, and had come back talking about centrifugal forces, and Tony had amused her for a few minutes more - actually longer than she’d watched the flying dough - by crunching the numbers she gave him for what size balls of dough would create what diameter pizza crusts.
Gabby had first been bewildered he didn’t even need a calculator, but quickly grew delighted when Pepper dug a one out of her purse so the girl could start asking ridiculous math problems and actually be able to double-check Tony’s answers.
Through it all, Pepper had only rolled her eyes, apparently amused by her two science geeks. In her lap, E finishes his cup of Sprite and sets it aside. “Why do the crusts get all those funny bubbles?”
Tony rubs his ear and thinks about it. “Do you want the long or the short answer?”
“Long,” the siblings say simultaneously. Pepper snickers at the intent way the children reply, wondering if her boss has ever before been confronted by such rampant curiosity.
Probably not, she acknowledges. After all, he’d never had to deal with himself as a child.
She listens to Tony’s long explanation of the process of making bread dough which in this case includes how to make yeast from scratch and the chemical processes involved with gentle amusement. He’s being amazingly patient and incredibly helpful, and she even thinks he’s enjoying himself.
“…and so the gasses expand and create the bubbles in the crust,” Tony finally sums up.
Both children nod, apparently satisfied. When Gabrielle finishes her slice of pizza, Tony quirks his eyebrow and motions to the window. “Do you need another one, Gabrielle? ‘Cause your other leg may be hollow too.”
His voice is affectionate but the nine year old still blushes and shakes her head. “I’m sorry. I guess I was a little bit piggy.”
Tony waves his hand as if brushing the matter aside, clearly considering her appetite insufficient reason to apologize. “E? Pep? Want any more?”
Pepper shakes her head. “One slice of pepperoni and that side salad was plenty for me.”
“If there’s no takers…” Tony reaches out and swipes the last slide of pizza, a contented smile on his face.
Pepper marvels at how utterly boneless he is, and wonders for perhaps the tenth time how it is he’s so good with children. She makes a mental note to see if she can’t arrange for more family based charity events.
Tony finishes the pizza quickly then drains his glass of the last of his cola. “We ready to go? Because candy awaits…”
“After we use the restroom,” Pepper replies, though she doesn’t move to rise immediately.
Tony nods, then looks at E for a moment. “You want to go with the girls, E, or come with me?”
The little boy responds by climbing off Pepper’s lap to take his hand. As they turn to go Pepper speaks. “Make sure he washes his hands before he comes back.” Tony rolls his eyes and opens his mouth to state he knows that much at least, but before he can retort Pepper winks at the boy whose hand he’s holding. “And I was talking to you, E.”
The little boy giggles at the suggestion. “Okay. I’ll make sure he uses lotsa soap.”
They make it inside the men’s room before Tony realizes he has no clue what he’s doing. He stops and looks down at the top of E’s head. “Uhhh…do you need help or anything?”
The little boy looks a little incredulous. “I’m five,” he informs Tony in disbelief. “I can go to the bathroom by myself.”
‘Great Stark, less than two minutes alone and you’ve managed to offend him.’ He rubs his head a moment, “Can I tell you a secret, E?”
When the boy nods Tony admits, “You’re the only five year old I know.”
The child studies him a moment, before he reaches out and pats his arm sympathetically. “Don’t worry…everybody hasta learn new stuff sometimes.”
Then he disappears into a stall, leaving Tony to take care of his business.
They leave the restroom together and get back to the table to find Pepper and Gabby still gone. Tony takes that as his opportunity to pay the bill without having to deal with Pepper’s immediate protests, though he knows she’s going to get to them eventually.
He also purchases several large slices of real Baklava from the desert case. It’s something he hasn’t had in more years than he can count. The desert reminds him for some reason of his childhood, and besides, he figures he and Pepper might enjoy a snack later tonight. And given the way both children had inhaled their pizza he’s not guessing there’ll be much to snack on in the fridge at the children’s house.
Finally Pepper and Gabby re-appear, hand in hand and laughing at some private joke. The sight of them together leaves an odd kind of tight feeling in Tony’s throat.
Pepper is just…this is effortless for her. He wonders how long Gabby and E have been a part of her life, and how she met them, and why she never mentioned anything about this to him. Though, the “why” might be the easiest question to answer considering his pre-Afghanistan MO. If she had said anything, he probably would have responded with something about how she was taking the easy approach to motherhood or something else as imbecilic.
Her pleasure in the children’s company is absolutely genuine. If the adoration didn’t appear to be fully returned he might even be a little jealous. As it is, he’s actually enjoying the excursion far more then he expected. It’s revealing sides to her he had never noticed before.
“So where to now?” he asks Pepper simply. It’s nearly seven pm after all, and somehow he doubts Pepper won’t have the kids home by nine at the latest.
“Did the check come yet?”
“Tony did it,” E says as he starts bouncing, obviously excited to start trick or treating,
Pepper raises an eyebrow. “How much do I owe you?”
He waves a hand noncommittally. “We can settle it later.”
The look on Pepper’s face in clear indication that she’s all too aware he’s hoping later she’ll forget. If he has to, he supposes that he can resort to saying that gentlemen always pay within the kids’ hearing in the off chance he might get some backup. But as they leave the restaurant he doesn’t think it’ll come to that.
“So where are we headed? Back to their house and then around their neighborhood?”
Pepper shakes her head in the negative, “That neighborhood is small and besides, I figured we’d go in search of more to look at and better candy.”
“Gotcha.” He and Pepper both have car doors open for children and he grins at her over the roof before ducking his head to make sure E’s strapped into his booster seat correctly.
He laughs. “We could always go hit that housing complex that’s the nearest one to the mansion. I’m betting the take out there would be pretty good”
“It’s kinda far to go, but not a bad idea,” Pepper says slowly as she closes Gabby’s door. It’s certainly a safe neighborhood, big and expensive enough to attract corporate climbers on the fast track and their families.
Heck, she wouldn’t be surprised if the people there were handing out full sized candy bars.
“Disney Radio?” Eduardo speaks up from the backseat, just a little bit hopefully. Both children have buckled themselves in and are waiting expectantly. E seems full of energy while his sister, full of pizza, is leaning back against the seat with her eyes clearly drooping.
Pepper smiles, “I think that can be arranged.” She fiddles with the dials of her radio until she finds the requested station and turns it on. A moment later both children are listening happily to a narrated version of it’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.
Pepper looks at Tony and smirks. “Be grateful it’s Halloween, or you’d be listening to High School Musical or the Jonas Brothers.”
“Saved by the holiday. So, we heading towards the housing complex I mentioned?” Tony asks as he clicks his seatbelt into place. “Or did you already have a plan?”
“Your place is good. Though with the extra commute the kids will probably fall asleep on the way back.”
Tony nods, “Then we’ll just carry them inside. Did you ever get hold of their mother?”
Pepper nods. “She called while we were in the bathroom, in a considerable panic. Turns out she informed Ms Skaggs before she left for her shift today that this week would be her last on the job. It appears the woman took decided there was no time like the present to take off.”
Tony nods, that at least makes a little sense. Even if it does make the sitter guilty of child endangerment. “So do we have to be back by a certain time? When does this Theresa get off her shift?”
Pepper shakes her head. “Her normal shift ends at eleven, and I told her not to worry. It’s later than I anticipated but tomorrow’s the weekend and they have a tight budget. After we’re done trick or treating I figure that I can drop you back at the mansion if you want, and then I’ll take the kids back to their house and wait for her to get home.”
“We’ll see,” Tony says vaguely. He might not be ready to go home once they’re done; he’s really enjoying himself this evening. Besides, he’s still got a car parked outside Pepper’s house and while it can always be picked up later, it also gives him a credible reason to stick around.
It’s a surprise even to himself how much fun he’s having. This evening has been absolutely nothing like his typical Halloween, but the children’s enthusiasm has been hugely infectious.
They fall silent, allowing the drive to be narrated by the story of Charlie Brown, Linus, and the Great Pumpkin. For a moment that makes him smile to himself, Tony finds himself relating to Sally with her crush on Linus. At least Pepper doesn’t mind his flirting.
When they reach one end of the neighborhood he’d suggested they all pile out of the car in the local park’s parking lot.
The children eye the giant houses with almost disbelieving eyes.
“Is that a castle?” Eduardo murmurs. His sister shakes her head but steps a little closer, taking his hand.
Tony falls to the back of the group, unconsciously rubbing the back of his neck as he suddenly doubts whether this was a good idea or not. From what little he’d noticed of this place, it’s well…nice, he supposes. He’s certainly never looked at it as anything special.
But hearing it through the eyes of the kids makes him very self conscious in an uncomfortable way.
Pepper meanwhile comes up behind both of the children, laying a comforting hand on each of their shoulder. “The size of a house isn’t as important as the people inside of it. And the candy will taste just the same.”
Then she pops the trunk of the car and pulls out two small plastic buckets.
“Come on, let’s go…pick a driveway. ‘Trick or Treat,’ and remember to say thank you.”
A gentle push sends the children on their way. Pepper lingers in place, watching them decide on a driveway then slowly start up it. She’s aware that Tony’s coming up behind her, and as he reaches her she starts moving to keep pace with him.
“I didn’t realize they’d find this place intimidating,” he murmurs apologetically, watching the children walk a little cautiously toward the nearest door.
“They’ll adjust. Children do, given encouragement and time.” Pepper glances over at him quickly as the kids reach for the doorbell. “You’re doing a great job, Tony.” She wants him to know that.
Tony’s smile is wry. “Impressive, considering I haven’t done anything like this since I was eight.”
“You didn’t trick or treat as a child?”
“I wanted to. Mom and Dad weren’t crazy about it though. Dad thought it was pointless and Mom thought the candy would make me hyper and ruin my teeth.” Tony doesn’t admit the reason he finally stopped begging to go out anyway. By nine he’d finally realized what he’d been too young to fully grasp before.
The other kids had trick or treated in packs. Except for his bodyguard, he’d always gone alone.
He shrugs it off when Pepper looks at him again. His parents had been older by the time they’d had him, as had been the children of their peers. It’s just how things had been.
“They look excited, don’t you think?” he says, gesturing towards the rapidly approaching forms of their pair of kids. Pepper hasn’t said anything, and if he can forestall anything she might be thinking about it’d probably be a good thing.
“They gave us Popcorn balls!” Gabby whispers, her eyes nearly the size of dinner plates.
Pepper smiles, “Are you ready to try the next house then?” The children nod and she shoos them down the sidewalk. “Then scurry. We’re only going to be here about forty more minutes.” There’s protesting noises, but they scamper off, leaving the adults to stroll along in their wake. With a clear time limit the children’s new goal is simple: mass acquisition of candy.
“They’re going to make out like thieves. Theresa will be delighted. She’ll ration it out and they’ll have treats in their lunch boxes for months.” Pepper sounds very satisfied.
Tony walks by her side for a few seconds before asking, “They really don’t have much extra, do they?”
Pepper shrugs. “It hard for any woman to raise her children alone.”
“How did you meet them?” he asks, figuring it’s probably a safe enough question.
Pepper smiles. “I’m a member of the Big Sister program. About nine months ago, Gabrielle’s was the name I drew out of a hat through a random selection. She and I did a few group events as well as some things one on one. It was while dropping her off after one of the latter that I met her brother and mom.” Pepper shakes her head. “Theresa Ramos is a remarkable woman. She’s got more courage and works harder than just about anyone I’ve ever met.”
“Is she widowed?” Tony asks a little cautiously.
Pepper nods. “Her husband died while serving a tour in Iraq. He was the only family she had.”
Tony frowns. “If she’s a surviving dependant of a soldier who fell in combat she shouldn’t be struggling so much. What happened to all the life insurance money she should have gotten?”
Pepper sighs. “What happened was a child with autism and no more health insurance, as well as a very gifted con man. From what Teresa’s said, she met Phillip Henderson about a year after her husband died, and for awhile, she thought he was a gift from God himself. Or she did until he proposed and she took that as proof he could be trusted with access to the family bank accounts.”
Tony’s lips tighten as his stomach starts to churn with anger. “Let me guess; false name.”
Pepper nods. “Theresa’s still beating herself up about being taken in the way she was. It sucked them down into a pretty messy whirlpool for awhile.”
“Where’s she working anyway?” Tony asks after a moment, not sure he’s that impressed by a place where a woman can’t be immediately reached if there’s an emergency with one of her kids.
“A diner. She’s the night cook. I keep telling her she needs to try for something better like office work, but all she has is her GED, and she’s afraid that no one else would hire her.”
“Find her a place at Stark Industries. If she’s willing to learn we can find her a job.” There’s no doubt that Tony’s absolutely serious. “Hire her as your assistant if you need to. God knows you need one.”
Pepper chews her lip. “I have to admit I’ve considered it. If I could get her to try she could use the Stark Industries daycare center, which would be great for Gabby and E.” Pepper shakes her head. “I’ve had to be slow about things though. Teresa’s a proud woman; she’ll reject anything she sees as charity.”
“It’s not charity. It’s work, as I’m sure you can attest. If she’s a cook, then we’ve got two cafeterias. After three months she’d have full benefits and the hours would be a hell of a lot better.”
Pepper nods. “I’m actually thinking after the daycare snafu that occurred tonight, I might be able to get her to reconsider.”
“Try it,” Tony says, still with his “boss voice” and his eyes pinned on the kids still going door to door. He mellows a little though as he says, “But probably not while I’m around. That might get a little awkward.”
Pepper snorts. “She’s going to have a coronary when she finds out who exactly my friend is that I dragged along for trick or treating tonight.”
“We don’t have to tell her. Gabs already promised not to say anything.”
“‘Gabs?’” Pepper asks, letting the “don’t have to tell” comment slide.
“Yeah. Decided I liked it better than Gabby. That describes a state which may or may not be accurate at any given time. Gabs sounds as if it’s describing a constant.”
Pepper laughs. “It also fits. She really has turned into quite the little magpie the last couple of months.”
Before Tony can answer there’s a loud, wailing shriek, a sudden flash of movement from the next house’s yard, and then a sharp, childish scream.
Tony doesn’t really think about what happened, he just reacts on instincts bred in one too many skirmishes. He’s in the yard and behind Gabby who has E clinging to her in an instant, but manages to stop himself before he throttles anyone. As it is, the three teenage boys behind the bushes are staring wide-eyed at him and shifting anxiously on their feet.
And he thinks, ‘Well, crap. I can’t hit a minor.’
He draws himself up to full height, about to deliver one hell of a lecture, before being cut off by Pepper and Gabby, speaking almost simultaneously.
“You’re all big stinky-headed bullies…”
“I think you gentleman better go ahead and explain exactly what you thought you were doing.”
The same posture, the same look and same tone. It’s a little uncanny. This isn’t some kind of big sister program thing. This is practically at the level of seeing a Pepper-clone.
“Uh…we…Halloween…didn’t mean…” There’s a lot of stammering from the trio of boys then as one they take off, running across a few lawns and into a house a couple of doors down.
Gabby glares, hands on her hips. “This bites! They didn’t even say they’re sorry.”
Eduardo, who had been till now clinging to his sister, suddenly turns and wraps his arms full-force around Tony. “Up,” he demands quietly.
Tony feels more than a little shock - a few hours ago E hadn’t known him from Adam - but complies with the request. Or the demand rather. Either way, it’s not as if he has a choice about it. Who’s he to deny a little security to a boy who’s just been freaked out?
Eduardo’s face is wet as he buries it in Tony’s neck. “Can we be done now?” His voice is shaky. “Please?!”
“You sure?” Tony asks, uncertain of how far he can push. Yeah, the best thing to do is get back on the horse, but not always. “There’s a few more houses on this block, and Pepper and I can come up to the doors with you.”
Eduardo pulls back enough to wipe his face, chewing on his lower lip thoughtfully. Pepper comes over, holding out her arms, and Tony’s a little relieved when the child willingly transfers over.
“E, if you’re really done it’s okay. I know that’s it’s been kind of a strange day. But those boys were just that…kids who thought that their prank would be funny. They didn’t mean to hurt anyone.” Pepper strokes the hair back off the little boy’s face with her one free arm as she speaks to him soothingly.
Eduardo finally nods, but it’s a half-hearted commitment and he makes no move to be let down from Pepper’s arms.
Gabby reaches up and tugs on her brother’s arm. “I heard one of the kids who went before us say they’re giving out money if you go to the blue house with the skeleton hanging from the tree.” This at least perks E’s interest. He squirms to be let down, but takes his sister’s hand tightly and looks back every few steps to make sure Tony and Pepper are right there.
When they get to the door they find an elderly woman, sitting by the door handing out 20 dollar bills. She smiles at the adults a little embarrassed. “My Jacob died this year. I’m 89 years old. The young need this far more than me.”
Gabby and E both say thank you in a tone that’s probably far more respectful than any that the woman’s heard so far tonight. Pepper steps aside to allow the kids to go first, but E hesitates. The boy reaches into his bucket and shyly offers a bag of M&Ms to the woman.
She chuckles and takes the package. “These are my favorite,” she tells the child simply.
“What’s your name?” Gabrielle asks quietly, once her brother steps away.
The woman looks surprised. “Emma. And yours?”
“Gabrielle.” And Gabby shifts back and forth on her feet before leaning over to kiss a weathered cheek. The way the woman dimples is a sight Tony doubts he’ll ever be able to forget. “Happy Halloween,” Gabby speaks softly, then returns to Pepper’s side.
‘I’m half in love with a nine year old,’ he realizes in amazement. Even if it is different from any other kind of love that he’s ever felt.
They all turn to go and Tony can’t help but reach out for Pepper’s hand. His fingers brush hers, and he’s a little surprised when they twist and squeeze his for some of the most exquisite seconds of his life before she lets go.
“All right, back to the car. We’ve got a long drive ahead of us. Do we need to stop on the way for another stop at the bathroom?”
Both children shake their heads, falling into step beside them, E on Tony’s side and Gabrielle laying her head against Pepper’s free arm as they walk.
Pepper cuts another piece of baklava off with her fork and eats it slowly as she watches Tony. The man never ceases to amaze her. He had been so helpful tonight, and more thoughtful than she’d seen him be in ages. Aside from the fact that he had paid for dinner and how he’d just swapped the kids’ two twenties out of their buckets for two fifties she doesn’t even have much to give him a hard time for.
“I’m going to start blushing if you don’t stop staring,” Tony comments as he eats his own dessert and watches The Nightmare Before Christmas as it flickers on the small TV.
“Thanks for being such a good sport about the way that I pulled one over on you this evening.”
Tony shrugs. “It was…different. Certainly a different kind of night then I would have had if I’d gone to that party.” He waves a fork in her direction, “Though I suppose I do owe you for the way that you tricked me.”
“Considering you’d be sitting around your house or tinkering in your garage, I’d say you do.” She smiles as he rolls his eyes.
“I am capable of entertaining myself without your help, Potts.”
“Yes. And having seen the results, it’s not something I’m eager to repeat. It’s harder to get people to come in to fix the floors in the garage now when something explodes that shouldn’t have.”
Tony rolls his eyes again, though they then grow serious. “These two kids are…unique. I really hope things work out for their mother and them.”
Pepper nods, studying his face carefully. She seems to debate something for several moments before speaking again, “You know Tony, you’re actually quite good with kids…and though he’s a bit young, I’m betting Teresa would agree to let you sponsor Eduardo in the big brother’s program if you had one free weekend a month.”
She’s almost sorry she said anything when Tony’s face goes stiff. “And how long would that stay a secret, Pepper? The last thing these kids need is an army of photographers following them around half the time. Besides, I’m not the most dependable person.” Tony shrugs, but his voice isn’t quite as expressionless as his face. Pepper can tell that he’s truly sorry, no matter how he tries to brush it off.
“Children don’t need perfection Tony, they just need time. Look, I’m not going to try and force you into it if you really don’t want to, but at least think about it?” She shakes her head, struggling to find the right words, unfortunately nothing she says can quite do full justice. “You deal with the shit of the earth constantly, Tony. Children are great sources of perspective. E could be as much a help to you as you’d be to him.”
Tony doesn’t say anything else for a long time. He has things he thinks to say of course, but can’t quite find the courage. Things like whether or not he’s really an appropriate role model, or if it’s even safe considering his side profession. There are some things he just can’t say, even to Pepper. So he sits on the couch, unable to meet her eyes.
He’s just starting to wonder if he might actually be wise to call a temporary retreat to the bathroom, when he feels her hand stroke down the length of his arm, and then a small, warm hand settles down over the top of his.
“I’m sorry…didn’t mean to push. Though for the record Stark, you’re a lot better man than I think you give yourself credit for being.”
And then like Gabby had with the elderly woman early in the evening, Pepper leans forward and lightly kisses his cheek. It’s not a sexual gesture exactly, but it’s full of affection and leaves a giant lump in his throat.
“Pepper?” he whispers as she pulls away.
She blushes a little. “Yeah?” Her voice is soft.
“Thank you.” Her fingers are still lightly touching his and he flips his hand over to hold hers. “I’ve really had a nice night.”
“Me too,” she murmurs as she sets her dessert aside and leans her head against his shoulder.
They stay that way - quietly content - until an hour or so later when a late model Chevy pulls into the driveway, and turns off its lights. “That’ll be Teresa.” Pepper informs him, yawning as she rises from the couch and stretches, heading for the doorway. “If you have anything to gather up, go ahead. We can head out just as soon as I fill her in as to the events of the evening and say a proper goodnight.”
He nods a little and stands himself. Gathering his coat from the end of the couch he says, “Just give me a moment to figure out where I left my shoes.”
The drive back to Pepper’s house is quiet, with her carefully focused on the road between intermittent bursts of yawning. After the third or forth in five minutes Tony chuckles softly. “You know, you’re starting to make me wonder if I’m giving you time to get enough sleep.”
Pepper snickers softly. “It’s been a longer than normal day, I admit. I figured on being done with the kids and home by maybe ten o’clock.”
“You don’t seem all that bitter about the whole change of plans.”
“I’m pissed at the babysitter, but I’m not blaming the kids. What kind of person leaves a nine year old and a five year old alone without any supervision?”
“The kind that shouldn’t be left alone with them,” Tony replies. “At least she did it on a night when you’d be coming over.”
Pepper nods. “I know. I think about what could have happened though and I…” She shivers, “I don’t know why Gabby didn’t call me immediately after she got her mom’s answering service.”
“Adults aren’t the only ones with pride, Pepper. And from her outfit tonight, I’d say Gabs admires you very much. Maybe she just wanted to show you she could take care of her family for a couple of hours.”
Pepper’s jaw tightens. “She’s not supposed to have to be making those kind of decisions, Tony. She’s a nine year old child.”
Tony rests his hand over hers. “Some nine year olds obviously do have to make those decisions. Maybe it wasn’t the right thing to do, but she kept her brother occupied and out of trouble. She’s remarkably mature for her age.”
Pepper nods and sighs a little. “I suppose it’s to be expected. She’s gone through a lot for someone of her age. It’s probably just transference on my part. I hate seeing any child grow up too fast, even if it really can’t be avoided.
“Pepper, don’t beat yourself up over this.” Tony chafes the hand under his. “Those kids adore you. I’m sure she knew you would come if she called. And if you’re really this upset about it, talk to her and make sure she knows that.”
Pepper’s expression grows a little sheepish. “I’m sorry. I’m tired and probably over-reacting.”
“You care about E and Gabby, it’s not a crime.” He reaches over a squeezes right above her knee consolingly.
Pepper nods, then sighs again. “I guess.” She shakes her head as if to clear it. “So did you need me to come in tomorrow or Sunday this weekend?”
“No, I think that you should catch up on some much needed sleep.” Tony grins at her, and as the moment stretches out between them it slowly falls and there’s something about his face that makes her heart start beating a little faster. “But do you want to get dinner, maybe?” The offer is extended slowly, as if Tony’s giving himself time to switch conversational paths if he thinks she might disagree.
Pepper debates for a moment, silently, aware of the possible consequences. This is a door that once opened, is unlikely to close easily again. But then, she’s the one who invited him trick or treating tonight, so it’s not like she can lecture him on the line that’s slowly fading between their professional and personal lives.
Besides, she’s not certain she wants to go back.
“That could be arranged…do you like Korean food? There’s a decent place that opened up not far from my place.”
“If you wanna get the food, I’ll bring the movie.” His voice and posture are both much more relaxed now.
She smiles. “Have you seen Corpse Bride? It’s the other Halloween movie by Tim Burton.”
He shakes his head. “Is that what you want to see?”
She nods, “I haven’t seen it yet, if you don’t have any objection.”
He raises an eyebrow. “That can probably be arranged.” He tilts his head, “You really like this holiday don’t you.”
“Always have,” Pepper tells him simply. “Ever since I was old enough to realize it could net me a fee sugar high.”
“Does that mean I should bring some Rasinets and Jr. Mints with me?”
She grins. “I have never in my life turned down free chocolate.”
“I’m tempted to take that as a challenge.”
She snorts, “I’m serious. I’ve eaten chocolate dipped bacon.”
Tony makes a face at that. “Okay, Potts. It might be time for an intervention.”
“It’s good. They sell it in candy stores in New York now.”
“The things you learn about people,” Tony says only half joking. “You apparently have suicidal taste buds.”
“And you love kids. Not something the average person would guess.”
“I don’t love kids,” Tony says immediately. “I’m a bachelor. I tolerate kids. If I like E and Gabby it’s because they’re people that are easy to like. But as a rule I do not ‘love’ kids.”
To Pepper it sounds as if Tony protests just a little too much.
She grins, “If that’s what you have to tell yourself to be able to sleep at night.”
His eyes narrow a little. “You’re making fun of me.”
She chuckles. “A little. Consider it a compliment. I only pick on people I like.”
He doesn’t say that she must like him a lot then, because that’s just hitting too close to home.
A few minutes later they pull up to Pepper’s house, and they both quietly get out of the car. “Do you need to crash on my couch tonight?” Pepper finally asks, “I know it’s late and I’ve got plenty of pillows and blankets if you don’t think that it’s a great idea to drive.”
Tony smiles softly at the offer. He’s tempted to stay, tempted enough to know that if he does he probably won’t stay on the couch and that leaving in the morning would be harder than either of them are probably ready to deal with right now. But he doesn’t want to hurt her by flat out declining the offer either.
He reaches an acceptable compromise while she’s still watching him and waiting for an answer. “I think I’d better go,” he whispers before he leans forward and returns the kiss she gave him earlier, inhaling the soft fragrance of her cheek before he pulls back. “But I’ll see you tomorrow. Around six good for you?”
Her smile is equally gentle, and her blush is warm. “Six is perfect, Tony.”
He walks her to her door, just to make sure she gets in safely, before turning back and heading toward his own car. “Hey Stark.” She calls out softly, causing him to turn his head and look at her just before he climbs into the driver’s seat.
“Yeah?”
“You make an awesome Fonzie.”
He whistles the tune to ‘Happy Days’ all the way home.
Author: 4persephone and NeonDaisies
Rating: T for Teen
Words: 9594 total, 5872 this part
Spoilers: IM1, slight
Chapters: 1
Status: Complete
The cooks and waiters are all in costume as are a lot of the kids. They run around in groups watching the live demonstrations on how to properly toss pizza dough, a few of them trying their hands at it under the staff’s watchful eyes. Parents who’ve given up on more than marginal crowd control sit at tables sipping their drinks. It’s chaos given form and a kind of impromptu dinner theater and Tony is absolutely absorbed in watching it all.
Pepper is sitting beside him with an equally enraptured Eduardo sitting in her lap; the little boy’s mask is up and he’s finishing the crust of his pizza. On Pepper’s other side Gabrielle Ramos is making her way through her third slice of pepperoni.
Gabby had ventured into the masses for awhile as they’d waited for their food, and had come back talking about centrifugal forces, and Tony had amused her for a few minutes more - actually longer than she’d watched the flying dough - by crunching the numbers she gave him for what size balls of dough would create what diameter pizza crusts.
Gabby had first been bewildered he didn’t even need a calculator, but quickly grew delighted when Pepper dug a one out of her purse so the girl could start asking ridiculous math problems and actually be able to double-check Tony’s answers.
Through it all, Pepper had only rolled her eyes, apparently amused by her two science geeks. In her lap, E finishes his cup of Sprite and sets it aside. “Why do the crusts get all those funny bubbles?”
Tony rubs his ear and thinks about it. “Do you want the long or the short answer?”
“Long,” the siblings say simultaneously. Pepper snickers at the intent way the children reply, wondering if her boss has ever before been confronted by such rampant curiosity.
Probably not, she acknowledges. After all, he’d never had to deal with himself as a child.
She listens to Tony’s long explanation of the process of making bread dough which in this case includes how to make yeast from scratch and the chemical processes involved with gentle amusement. He’s being amazingly patient and incredibly helpful, and she even thinks he’s enjoying himself.
“…and so the gasses expand and create the bubbles in the crust,” Tony finally sums up.
Both children nod, apparently satisfied. When Gabrielle finishes her slice of pizza, Tony quirks his eyebrow and motions to the window. “Do you need another one, Gabrielle? ‘Cause your other leg may be hollow too.”
His voice is affectionate but the nine year old still blushes and shakes her head. “I’m sorry. I guess I was a little bit piggy.”
Tony waves his hand as if brushing the matter aside, clearly considering her appetite insufficient reason to apologize. “E? Pep? Want any more?”
Pepper shakes her head. “One slice of pepperoni and that side salad was plenty for me.”
“If there’s no takers…” Tony reaches out and swipes the last slide of pizza, a contented smile on his face.
Pepper marvels at how utterly boneless he is, and wonders for perhaps the tenth time how it is he’s so good with children. She makes a mental note to see if she can’t arrange for more family based charity events.
Tony finishes the pizza quickly then drains his glass of the last of his cola. “We ready to go? Because candy awaits…”
“After we use the restroom,” Pepper replies, though she doesn’t move to rise immediately.
Tony nods, then looks at E for a moment. “You want to go with the girls, E, or come with me?”
The little boy responds by climbing off Pepper’s lap to take his hand. As they turn to go Pepper speaks. “Make sure he washes his hands before he comes back.” Tony rolls his eyes and opens his mouth to state he knows that much at least, but before he can retort Pepper winks at the boy whose hand he’s holding. “And I was talking to you, E.”
The little boy giggles at the suggestion. “Okay. I’ll make sure he uses lotsa soap.”
They make it inside the men’s room before Tony realizes he has no clue what he’s doing. He stops and looks down at the top of E’s head. “Uhhh…do you need help or anything?”
The little boy looks a little incredulous. “I’m five,” he informs Tony in disbelief. “I can go to the bathroom by myself.”
‘Great Stark, less than two minutes alone and you’ve managed to offend him.’ He rubs his head a moment, “Can I tell you a secret, E?”
When the boy nods Tony admits, “You’re the only five year old I know.”
The child studies him a moment, before he reaches out and pats his arm sympathetically. “Don’t worry…everybody hasta learn new stuff sometimes.”
Then he disappears into a stall, leaving Tony to take care of his business.
They leave the restroom together and get back to the table to find Pepper and Gabby still gone. Tony takes that as his opportunity to pay the bill without having to deal with Pepper’s immediate protests, though he knows she’s going to get to them eventually.
He also purchases several large slices of real Baklava from the desert case. It’s something he hasn’t had in more years than he can count. The desert reminds him for some reason of his childhood, and besides, he figures he and Pepper might enjoy a snack later tonight. And given the way both children had inhaled their pizza he’s not guessing there’ll be much to snack on in the fridge at the children’s house.
Finally Pepper and Gabby re-appear, hand in hand and laughing at some private joke. The sight of them together leaves an odd kind of tight feeling in Tony’s throat.
Pepper is just…this is effortless for her. He wonders how long Gabby and E have been a part of her life, and how she met them, and why she never mentioned anything about this to him. Though, the “why” might be the easiest question to answer considering his pre-Afghanistan MO. If she had said anything, he probably would have responded with something about how she was taking the easy approach to motherhood or something else as imbecilic.
Her pleasure in the children’s company is absolutely genuine. If the adoration didn’t appear to be fully returned he might even be a little jealous. As it is, he’s actually enjoying the excursion far more then he expected. It’s revealing sides to her he had never noticed before.
“So where to now?” he asks Pepper simply. It’s nearly seven pm after all, and somehow he doubts Pepper won’t have the kids home by nine at the latest.
“Did the check come yet?”
“Tony did it,” E says as he starts bouncing, obviously excited to start trick or treating,
Pepper raises an eyebrow. “How much do I owe you?”
He waves a hand noncommittally. “We can settle it later.”
The look on Pepper’s face in clear indication that she’s all too aware he’s hoping later she’ll forget. If he has to, he supposes that he can resort to saying that gentlemen always pay within the kids’ hearing in the off chance he might get some backup. But as they leave the restaurant he doesn’t think it’ll come to that.
“So where are we headed? Back to their house and then around their neighborhood?”
Pepper shakes her head in the negative, “That neighborhood is small and besides, I figured we’d go in search of more to look at and better candy.”
“Gotcha.” He and Pepper both have car doors open for children and he grins at her over the roof before ducking his head to make sure E’s strapped into his booster seat correctly.
He laughs. “We could always go hit that housing complex that’s the nearest one to the mansion. I’m betting the take out there would be pretty good”
“It’s kinda far to go, but not a bad idea,” Pepper says slowly as she closes Gabby’s door. It’s certainly a safe neighborhood, big and expensive enough to attract corporate climbers on the fast track and their families.
Heck, she wouldn’t be surprised if the people there were handing out full sized candy bars.
“Disney Radio?” Eduardo speaks up from the backseat, just a little bit hopefully. Both children have buckled themselves in and are waiting expectantly. E seems full of energy while his sister, full of pizza, is leaning back against the seat with her eyes clearly drooping.
Pepper smiles, “I think that can be arranged.” She fiddles with the dials of her radio until she finds the requested station and turns it on. A moment later both children are listening happily to a narrated version of it’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.
Pepper looks at Tony and smirks. “Be grateful it’s Halloween, or you’d be listening to High School Musical or the Jonas Brothers.”
“Saved by the holiday. So, we heading towards the housing complex I mentioned?” Tony asks as he clicks his seatbelt into place. “Or did you already have a plan?”
“Your place is good. Though with the extra commute the kids will probably fall asleep on the way back.”
Tony nods, “Then we’ll just carry them inside. Did you ever get hold of their mother?”
Pepper nods. “She called while we were in the bathroom, in a considerable panic. Turns out she informed Ms Skaggs before she left for her shift today that this week would be her last on the job. It appears the woman took decided there was no time like the present to take off.”
Tony nods, that at least makes a little sense. Even if it does make the sitter guilty of child endangerment. “So do we have to be back by a certain time? When does this Theresa get off her shift?”
Pepper shakes her head. “Her normal shift ends at eleven, and I told her not to worry. It’s later than I anticipated but tomorrow’s the weekend and they have a tight budget. After we’re done trick or treating I figure that I can drop you back at the mansion if you want, and then I’ll take the kids back to their house and wait for her to get home.”
“We’ll see,” Tony says vaguely. He might not be ready to go home once they’re done; he’s really enjoying himself this evening. Besides, he’s still got a car parked outside Pepper’s house and while it can always be picked up later, it also gives him a credible reason to stick around.
It’s a surprise even to himself how much fun he’s having. This evening has been absolutely nothing like his typical Halloween, but the children’s enthusiasm has been hugely infectious.
They fall silent, allowing the drive to be narrated by the story of Charlie Brown, Linus, and the Great Pumpkin. For a moment that makes him smile to himself, Tony finds himself relating to Sally with her crush on Linus. At least Pepper doesn’t mind his flirting.
When they reach one end of the neighborhood he’d suggested they all pile out of the car in the local park’s parking lot.
The children eye the giant houses with almost disbelieving eyes.
“Is that a castle?” Eduardo murmurs. His sister shakes her head but steps a little closer, taking his hand.
Tony falls to the back of the group, unconsciously rubbing the back of his neck as he suddenly doubts whether this was a good idea or not. From what little he’d noticed of this place, it’s well…nice, he supposes. He’s certainly never looked at it as anything special.
But hearing it through the eyes of the kids makes him very self conscious in an uncomfortable way.
Pepper meanwhile comes up behind both of the children, laying a comforting hand on each of their shoulder. “The size of a house isn’t as important as the people inside of it. And the candy will taste just the same.”
Then she pops the trunk of the car and pulls out two small plastic buckets.
“Come on, let’s go…pick a driveway. ‘Trick or Treat,’ and remember to say thank you.”
A gentle push sends the children on their way. Pepper lingers in place, watching them decide on a driveway then slowly start up it. She’s aware that Tony’s coming up behind her, and as he reaches her she starts moving to keep pace with him.
“I didn’t realize they’d find this place intimidating,” he murmurs apologetically, watching the children walk a little cautiously toward the nearest door.
“They’ll adjust. Children do, given encouragement and time.” Pepper glances over at him quickly as the kids reach for the doorbell. “You’re doing a great job, Tony.” She wants him to know that.
Tony’s smile is wry. “Impressive, considering I haven’t done anything like this since I was eight.”
“You didn’t trick or treat as a child?”
“I wanted to. Mom and Dad weren’t crazy about it though. Dad thought it was pointless and Mom thought the candy would make me hyper and ruin my teeth.” Tony doesn’t admit the reason he finally stopped begging to go out anyway. By nine he’d finally realized what he’d been too young to fully grasp before.
The other kids had trick or treated in packs. Except for his bodyguard, he’d always gone alone.
He shrugs it off when Pepper looks at him again. His parents had been older by the time they’d had him, as had been the children of their peers. It’s just how things had been.
“They look excited, don’t you think?” he says, gesturing towards the rapidly approaching forms of their pair of kids. Pepper hasn’t said anything, and if he can forestall anything she might be thinking about it’d probably be a good thing.
“They gave us Popcorn balls!” Gabby whispers, her eyes nearly the size of dinner plates.
Pepper smiles, “Are you ready to try the next house then?” The children nod and she shoos them down the sidewalk. “Then scurry. We’re only going to be here about forty more minutes.” There’s protesting noises, but they scamper off, leaving the adults to stroll along in their wake. With a clear time limit the children’s new goal is simple: mass acquisition of candy.
“They’re going to make out like thieves. Theresa will be delighted. She’ll ration it out and they’ll have treats in their lunch boxes for months.” Pepper sounds very satisfied.
Tony walks by her side for a few seconds before asking, “They really don’t have much extra, do they?”
Pepper shrugs. “It hard for any woman to raise her children alone.”
“How did you meet them?” he asks, figuring it’s probably a safe enough question.
Pepper smiles. “I’m a member of the Big Sister program. About nine months ago, Gabrielle’s was the name I drew out of a hat through a random selection. She and I did a few group events as well as some things one on one. It was while dropping her off after one of the latter that I met her brother and mom.” Pepper shakes her head. “Theresa Ramos is a remarkable woman. She’s got more courage and works harder than just about anyone I’ve ever met.”
“Is she widowed?” Tony asks a little cautiously.
Pepper nods. “Her husband died while serving a tour in Iraq. He was the only family she had.”
Tony frowns. “If she’s a surviving dependant of a soldier who fell in combat she shouldn’t be struggling so much. What happened to all the life insurance money she should have gotten?”
Pepper sighs. “What happened was a child with autism and no more health insurance, as well as a very gifted con man. From what Teresa’s said, she met Phillip Henderson about a year after her husband died, and for awhile, she thought he was a gift from God himself. Or she did until he proposed and she took that as proof he could be trusted with access to the family bank accounts.”
Tony’s lips tighten as his stomach starts to churn with anger. “Let me guess; false name.”
Pepper nods. “Theresa’s still beating herself up about being taken in the way she was. It sucked them down into a pretty messy whirlpool for awhile.”
“Where’s she working anyway?” Tony asks after a moment, not sure he’s that impressed by a place where a woman can’t be immediately reached if there’s an emergency with one of her kids.
“A diner. She’s the night cook. I keep telling her she needs to try for something better like office work, but all she has is her GED, and she’s afraid that no one else would hire her.”
“Find her a place at Stark Industries. If she’s willing to learn we can find her a job.” There’s no doubt that Tony’s absolutely serious. “Hire her as your assistant if you need to. God knows you need one.”
Pepper chews her lip. “I have to admit I’ve considered it. If I could get her to try she could use the Stark Industries daycare center, which would be great for Gabby and E.” Pepper shakes her head. “I’ve had to be slow about things though. Teresa’s a proud woman; she’ll reject anything she sees as charity.”
“It’s not charity. It’s work, as I’m sure you can attest. If she’s a cook, then we’ve got two cafeterias. After three months she’d have full benefits and the hours would be a hell of a lot better.”
Pepper nods. “I’m actually thinking after the daycare snafu that occurred tonight, I might be able to get her to reconsider.”
“Try it,” Tony says, still with his “boss voice” and his eyes pinned on the kids still going door to door. He mellows a little though as he says, “But probably not while I’m around. That might get a little awkward.”
Pepper snorts. “She’s going to have a coronary when she finds out who exactly my friend is that I dragged along for trick or treating tonight.”
“We don’t have to tell her. Gabs already promised not to say anything.”
“‘Gabs?’” Pepper asks, letting the “don’t have to tell” comment slide.
“Yeah. Decided I liked it better than Gabby. That describes a state which may or may not be accurate at any given time. Gabs sounds as if it’s describing a constant.”
Pepper laughs. “It also fits. She really has turned into quite the little magpie the last couple of months.”
Before Tony can answer there’s a loud, wailing shriek, a sudden flash of movement from the next house’s yard, and then a sharp, childish scream.
Tony doesn’t really think about what happened, he just reacts on instincts bred in one too many skirmishes. He’s in the yard and behind Gabby who has E clinging to her in an instant, but manages to stop himself before he throttles anyone. As it is, the three teenage boys behind the bushes are staring wide-eyed at him and shifting anxiously on their feet.
And he thinks, ‘Well, crap. I can’t hit a minor.’
He draws himself up to full height, about to deliver one hell of a lecture, before being cut off by Pepper and Gabby, speaking almost simultaneously.
“You’re all big stinky-headed bullies…”
“I think you gentleman better go ahead and explain exactly what you thought you were doing.”
The same posture, the same look and same tone. It’s a little uncanny. This isn’t some kind of big sister program thing. This is practically at the level of seeing a Pepper-clone.
“Uh…we…Halloween…didn’t mean…” There’s a lot of stammering from the trio of boys then as one they take off, running across a few lawns and into a house a couple of doors down.
Gabby glares, hands on her hips. “This bites! They didn’t even say they’re sorry.”
Eduardo, who had been till now clinging to his sister, suddenly turns and wraps his arms full-force around Tony. “Up,” he demands quietly.
Tony feels more than a little shock - a few hours ago E hadn’t known him from Adam - but complies with the request. Or the demand rather. Either way, it’s not as if he has a choice about it. Who’s he to deny a little security to a boy who’s just been freaked out?
Eduardo’s face is wet as he buries it in Tony’s neck. “Can we be done now?” His voice is shaky. “Please?!”
“You sure?” Tony asks, uncertain of how far he can push. Yeah, the best thing to do is get back on the horse, but not always. “There’s a few more houses on this block, and Pepper and I can come up to the doors with you.”
Eduardo pulls back enough to wipe his face, chewing on his lower lip thoughtfully. Pepper comes over, holding out her arms, and Tony’s a little relieved when the child willingly transfers over.
“E, if you’re really done it’s okay. I know that’s it’s been kind of a strange day. But those boys were just that…kids who thought that their prank would be funny. They didn’t mean to hurt anyone.” Pepper strokes the hair back off the little boy’s face with her one free arm as she speaks to him soothingly.
Eduardo finally nods, but it’s a half-hearted commitment and he makes no move to be let down from Pepper’s arms.
Gabby reaches up and tugs on her brother’s arm. “I heard one of the kids who went before us say they’re giving out money if you go to the blue house with the skeleton hanging from the tree.” This at least perks E’s interest. He squirms to be let down, but takes his sister’s hand tightly and looks back every few steps to make sure Tony and Pepper are right there.
When they get to the door they find an elderly woman, sitting by the door handing out 20 dollar bills. She smiles at the adults a little embarrassed. “My Jacob died this year. I’m 89 years old. The young need this far more than me.”
Gabby and E both say thank you in a tone that’s probably far more respectful than any that the woman’s heard so far tonight. Pepper steps aside to allow the kids to go first, but E hesitates. The boy reaches into his bucket and shyly offers a bag of M&Ms to the woman.
She chuckles and takes the package. “These are my favorite,” she tells the child simply.
“What’s your name?” Gabrielle asks quietly, once her brother steps away.
The woman looks surprised. “Emma. And yours?”
“Gabrielle.” And Gabby shifts back and forth on her feet before leaning over to kiss a weathered cheek. The way the woman dimples is a sight Tony doubts he’ll ever be able to forget. “Happy Halloween,” Gabby speaks softly, then returns to Pepper’s side.
‘I’m half in love with a nine year old,’ he realizes in amazement. Even if it is different from any other kind of love that he’s ever felt.
They all turn to go and Tony can’t help but reach out for Pepper’s hand. His fingers brush hers, and he’s a little surprised when they twist and squeeze his for some of the most exquisite seconds of his life before she lets go.
“All right, back to the car. We’ve got a long drive ahead of us. Do we need to stop on the way for another stop at the bathroom?”
Both children shake their heads, falling into step beside them, E on Tony’s side and Gabrielle laying her head against Pepper’s free arm as they walk.
Pepper cuts another piece of baklava off with her fork and eats it slowly as she watches Tony. The man never ceases to amaze her. He had been so helpful tonight, and more thoughtful than she’d seen him be in ages. Aside from the fact that he had paid for dinner and how he’d just swapped the kids’ two twenties out of their buckets for two fifties she doesn’t even have much to give him a hard time for.
“I’m going to start blushing if you don’t stop staring,” Tony comments as he eats his own dessert and watches The Nightmare Before Christmas as it flickers on the small TV.
“Thanks for being such a good sport about the way that I pulled one over on you this evening.”
Tony shrugs. “It was…different. Certainly a different kind of night then I would have had if I’d gone to that party.” He waves a fork in her direction, “Though I suppose I do owe you for the way that you tricked me.”
“Considering you’d be sitting around your house or tinkering in your garage, I’d say you do.” She smiles as he rolls his eyes.
“I am capable of entertaining myself without your help, Potts.”
“Yes. And having seen the results, it’s not something I’m eager to repeat. It’s harder to get people to come in to fix the floors in the garage now when something explodes that shouldn’t have.”
Tony rolls his eyes again, though they then grow serious. “These two kids are…unique. I really hope things work out for their mother and them.”
Pepper nods, studying his face carefully. She seems to debate something for several moments before speaking again, “You know Tony, you’re actually quite good with kids…and though he’s a bit young, I’m betting Teresa would agree to let you sponsor Eduardo in the big brother’s program if you had one free weekend a month.”
She’s almost sorry she said anything when Tony’s face goes stiff. “And how long would that stay a secret, Pepper? The last thing these kids need is an army of photographers following them around half the time. Besides, I’m not the most dependable person.” Tony shrugs, but his voice isn’t quite as expressionless as his face. Pepper can tell that he’s truly sorry, no matter how he tries to brush it off.
“Children don’t need perfection Tony, they just need time. Look, I’m not going to try and force you into it if you really don’t want to, but at least think about it?” She shakes her head, struggling to find the right words, unfortunately nothing she says can quite do full justice. “You deal with the shit of the earth constantly, Tony. Children are great sources of perspective. E could be as much a help to you as you’d be to him.”
Tony doesn’t say anything else for a long time. He has things he thinks to say of course, but can’t quite find the courage. Things like whether or not he’s really an appropriate role model, or if it’s even safe considering his side profession. There are some things he just can’t say, even to Pepper. So he sits on the couch, unable to meet her eyes.
He’s just starting to wonder if he might actually be wise to call a temporary retreat to the bathroom, when he feels her hand stroke down the length of his arm, and then a small, warm hand settles down over the top of his.
“I’m sorry…didn’t mean to push. Though for the record Stark, you’re a lot better man than I think you give yourself credit for being.”
And then like Gabby had with the elderly woman early in the evening, Pepper leans forward and lightly kisses his cheek. It’s not a sexual gesture exactly, but it’s full of affection and leaves a giant lump in his throat.
“Pepper?” he whispers as she pulls away.
She blushes a little. “Yeah?” Her voice is soft.
“Thank you.” Her fingers are still lightly touching his and he flips his hand over to hold hers. “I’ve really had a nice night.”
“Me too,” she murmurs as she sets her dessert aside and leans her head against his shoulder.
They stay that way - quietly content - until an hour or so later when a late model Chevy pulls into the driveway, and turns off its lights. “That’ll be Teresa.” Pepper informs him, yawning as she rises from the couch and stretches, heading for the doorway. “If you have anything to gather up, go ahead. We can head out just as soon as I fill her in as to the events of the evening and say a proper goodnight.”
He nods a little and stands himself. Gathering his coat from the end of the couch he says, “Just give me a moment to figure out where I left my shoes.”
The drive back to Pepper’s house is quiet, with her carefully focused on the road between intermittent bursts of yawning. After the third or forth in five minutes Tony chuckles softly. “You know, you’re starting to make me wonder if I’m giving you time to get enough sleep.”
Pepper snickers softly. “It’s been a longer than normal day, I admit. I figured on being done with the kids and home by maybe ten o’clock.”
“You don’t seem all that bitter about the whole change of plans.”
“I’m pissed at the babysitter, but I’m not blaming the kids. What kind of person leaves a nine year old and a five year old alone without any supervision?”
“The kind that shouldn’t be left alone with them,” Tony replies. “At least she did it on a night when you’d be coming over.”
Pepper nods. “I know. I think about what could have happened though and I…” She shivers, “I don’t know why Gabby didn’t call me immediately after she got her mom’s answering service.”
“Adults aren’t the only ones with pride, Pepper. And from her outfit tonight, I’d say Gabs admires you very much. Maybe she just wanted to show you she could take care of her family for a couple of hours.”
Pepper’s jaw tightens. “She’s not supposed to have to be making those kind of decisions, Tony. She’s a nine year old child.”
Tony rests his hand over hers. “Some nine year olds obviously do have to make those decisions. Maybe it wasn’t the right thing to do, but she kept her brother occupied and out of trouble. She’s remarkably mature for her age.”
Pepper nods and sighs a little. “I suppose it’s to be expected. She’s gone through a lot for someone of her age. It’s probably just transference on my part. I hate seeing any child grow up too fast, even if it really can’t be avoided.
“Pepper, don’t beat yourself up over this.” Tony chafes the hand under his. “Those kids adore you. I’m sure she knew you would come if she called. And if you’re really this upset about it, talk to her and make sure she knows that.”
Pepper’s expression grows a little sheepish. “I’m sorry. I’m tired and probably over-reacting.”
“You care about E and Gabby, it’s not a crime.” He reaches over a squeezes right above her knee consolingly.
Pepper nods, then sighs again. “I guess.” She shakes her head as if to clear it. “So did you need me to come in tomorrow or Sunday this weekend?”
“No, I think that you should catch up on some much needed sleep.” Tony grins at her, and as the moment stretches out between them it slowly falls and there’s something about his face that makes her heart start beating a little faster. “But do you want to get dinner, maybe?” The offer is extended slowly, as if Tony’s giving himself time to switch conversational paths if he thinks she might disagree.
Pepper debates for a moment, silently, aware of the possible consequences. This is a door that once opened, is unlikely to close easily again. But then, she’s the one who invited him trick or treating tonight, so it’s not like she can lecture him on the line that’s slowly fading between their professional and personal lives.
Besides, she’s not certain she wants to go back.
“That could be arranged…do you like Korean food? There’s a decent place that opened up not far from my place.”
“If you wanna get the food, I’ll bring the movie.” His voice and posture are both much more relaxed now.
She smiles. “Have you seen Corpse Bride? It’s the other Halloween movie by Tim Burton.”
He shakes his head. “Is that what you want to see?”
She nods, “I haven’t seen it yet, if you don’t have any objection.”
He raises an eyebrow. “That can probably be arranged.” He tilts his head, “You really like this holiday don’t you.”
“Always have,” Pepper tells him simply. “Ever since I was old enough to realize it could net me a fee sugar high.”
“Does that mean I should bring some Rasinets and Jr. Mints with me?”
She grins. “I have never in my life turned down free chocolate.”
“I’m tempted to take that as a challenge.”
She snorts, “I’m serious. I’ve eaten chocolate dipped bacon.”
Tony makes a face at that. “Okay, Potts. It might be time for an intervention.”
“It’s good. They sell it in candy stores in New York now.”
“The things you learn about people,” Tony says only half joking. “You apparently have suicidal taste buds.”
“And you love kids. Not something the average person would guess.”
“I don’t love kids,” Tony says immediately. “I’m a bachelor. I tolerate kids. If I like E and Gabby it’s because they’re people that are easy to like. But as a rule I do not ‘love’ kids.”
To Pepper it sounds as if Tony protests just a little too much.
She grins, “If that’s what you have to tell yourself to be able to sleep at night.”
His eyes narrow a little. “You’re making fun of me.”
She chuckles. “A little. Consider it a compliment. I only pick on people I like.”
He doesn’t say that she must like him a lot then, because that’s just hitting too close to home.
A few minutes later they pull up to Pepper’s house, and they both quietly get out of the car. “Do you need to crash on my couch tonight?” Pepper finally asks, “I know it’s late and I’ve got plenty of pillows and blankets if you don’t think that it’s a great idea to drive.”
Tony smiles softly at the offer. He’s tempted to stay, tempted enough to know that if he does he probably won’t stay on the couch and that leaving in the morning would be harder than either of them are probably ready to deal with right now. But he doesn’t want to hurt her by flat out declining the offer either.
He reaches an acceptable compromise while she’s still watching him and waiting for an answer. “I think I’d better go,” he whispers before he leans forward and returns the kiss she gave him earlier, inhaling the soft fragrance of her cheek before he pulls back. “But I’ll see you tomorrow. Around six good for you?”
Her smile is equally gentle, and her blush is warm. “Six is perfect, Tony.”
He walks her to her door, just to make sure she gets in safely, before turning back and heading toward his own car. “Hey Stark.” She calls out softly, causing him to turn his head and look at her just before he climbs into the driver’s seat.
“Yeah?”
“You make an awesome Fonzie.”
He whistles the tune to ‘Happy Days’ all the way home.