The Invention Left By A Little Stark | Book 2

11) In Memoria

Pepper and Hill approached the stairs to New York City Hall.

It was a grand building of three storeys, each ledge housing an array of different flags. The windows were bold and decorated, the stones of the place itself a magnificent white that glistened in the afternoon light.

As the two women reached the top of the stairs and passed the pillars that framed the entrance, they shared a look. Neither knew how this might turn out.

Inside was even grander than the exterior, only now filled with people. Those in suits who worked there, ordinary people with inquiries or meetings, and even a very small group for a tour.

"I'm glad we're doing this for (Y/n)." Pepper said. "Thank you for helping out. I'm sorry about the drive down."

"Don't worry about it." Hill assured her. "I want to do this as much as you. And I'm sure (Y/n) would be glad to see us working together."

"I hope the mayor agrees. Politicians aren't known for being considerate."

She scoffed, seemingly in agreement. "It's only an event. One night."

"Knowing what I do, the first excuse will be high tides, bad weather."

"I could always threaten him. Thor cleared the skies for (Y/n) once, I'm sure he'd do it again."

She smiled, nodding along. "I guess you're right."

"Come on, we'll be late."

"But let's not threaten him." Pepper added. "I hear he's a fan of the Avengers so if he says no, we might be able to still change location."

Then they reached security.

They were instructed to remove anything that might set off the metal detectors and then guided through the said devices before being subjected to a pat down.

One guard caught sight of Hill's old SHIELD badge and lightly backed off. Even if the organization was dead to the world, that didn't mean it didn't still hold leverage.

After this was done and their effects restored, a woman came forward. She was in a tight suit and held a folder to her chest.

"Hello, Ms. Potts, Agent Hill. My name is Lani." She introduced. "I'm the mayor's assistant. It's an honor to meet you both."

"The honor is ours." Pepper said politely. "I'm glad we had the chance to organize all this. I know the mayor can be busy."

"That's true, but you're right on time today. He's just finished with the journalists. I'll take you to him."

"Great, thanks."

"No problem. Follow me."

With confirmed clearance by the security team, the three of them headed through a set of double doors and down a long and twisting hallway. After another minute of passing several offices, they finally reached the most significant looking one.

There was a security guard on each end of the double doors, both stood in stony silence and contempt. After confirming a check with Lani, they allowed the party of three inside.

Mayor Williams was sitting at his desk with his chin resting on linked fingers.

"Your one o'clock is here Mr. Mayor." Lani said. "Ms. Pepper Potts and Agent Maria Hill, formerly of SHIELD."

He stood to attention, extending a hand for them both. "It's a real pleasure, ladies."

They shook his hand and greeted him formally.

"Take a seat." He welcomed, motioning to the spare chairs at his desk. "Thank you, Lani."

"Can I get some refreshments?" The assistant asked politely.