Looks like we’re taking the suit, without any mishaps.

”Take the suit.”

Even though she wasn’t in the room, a sly smile crossed your face.

“What?!”

“I’m keeping up appearances as CEO, right? Well, Iron Man also happens to be a CEO, and he can make it work.” You had managed the blanket off you at this point, and were upstairs, getting ready to start the day.

“Out of the question, the Air National Guard and FAA both want your head for flying that thing around anyhow, now that they know who’s flying it.”

“This isn’t an argument. See you there?”

Nothing more from her, except the dial tone that indicated that she’s already hung up. Fuck. You had to make it up to her. You would make it up to her, somehow. You got ready and got into the suit, screaming across the sky without much interference.

You touched down in the parking lot of HAMMER Labs. Justin Hammer was already waiting for you, greeting you with arms outstretched.

“Mr. Stark! You’re never one for a boring entrance. Little early to be waltzing around with that kinda’ tech, don’t you think?”

“Well, Mr. Hammer. If you’ve got it, flaunt it. What have you got for me today?”

“Some good stuff! All kinds of folks are ready to show off everything my think tank cooks up.”

“Save the pleasantries for after?”

“Sure thing, Mr. Business. The other judges are waiting. Come by my office afterwards, I’ll have something chilled to drink.”

“Sounds good to me.”

Most of the day was a blur. Projects and weapons and experiments all piling up and none of it was even relatively close to where STARK Industries was. Close to the end, Pepper had caught up. She wasn’t there to judge, just there for you. Even as annoyed as she was, she still showed up. You both didn’t say much, but she was great for the banter when you needed to bounce your thoughts off of someone.