The elevator ride seemed to take forever. Would Pepper be mad? What would he say? He wiped his sweaty palms against his jeans. The elevator slowed to a stop. The doors glided open to reveal an enormous room. Pepper was sitting on the couch with her back to him. Tony cleared his throat. With a little jump, Pepper spun around. She stood up swiftly and stared at Tony. He walked into the room towards Pepper. Pepper soon realized what was happening and hurried around the couch to Tony. Tears were starting to well in her eyes. She threw her arms around his neck. Shocked, Tony paused for a second and then grasped her around the waist and pulled her in tight. They embraced for what felt like hours until finally Pepper whispered in his ear.
"Do you know how I felt when I thought you were dead?"
"Erm, no." Tony muttered.
"I thought I lost you"
"I tried to call you."
"You were on the TV, I had to see what was happening."
Pepper broke away. She led them both to the long white couch and sat Tony down.
"I wanted to talk to you." he explained."
"I'm sorry," Pepper paused. "What would you have said to me?"
"I would've thanked you. For taking care of me all these years. For putting up with me. I would've told you I couldn't have done it without you. I would be broke without you. Nobody else would've been able to do it either." Tony looked away. He took Pepper's hands in his before continuing. "I would be nothing without you. I would've told you that I love you. I've always loved you. You are perfect in every way. I also would've told you that you can accomplish so much without me. That you can go off and find a much better job. That you are the smartest woman I know. I would've also told you that you can find a much better man than me. Someone who is loyal and caring and who loves you very much."
Pepper was crying now. Tears streamed down her face. Tony had never seen her like this. She was such a strong woman.
Tony moved in towards her. He put her arm around her and pulled her face into his chest. He held her there, stroking her hair. Just holding her.
"Tony, I- I don't know what to say." said Pepper after a while.
"It's fine sweetheart. You don't have to say anything."
Tony held her in his arms until she stopped crying and then until she fell asleep. He reached over her and gently pulled a blanket over the two of them. He leaned his head back with his precious Pepper in his arms and quickly dozed off.
