Iron and Magic

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Page count: 17

Tony stayed annoyingly close to her in the days that followed the nightmare-induced incident. He didn't pry no matter how much she knew he wanted to, but his unasked questions and curiosity were known. She could barely turn around without bumping into him and even when they weren't in the same room as one another, she was certain he'd convinced Sally to follow her and keep watch, her familiar being present more often than usual and napping less frequently throughout the day.

No matter how many times she told him she was fine, he wouldn't listen and it was driving her batty. The only reason she hadn't hexed him yet was his arc reactor.

They'd settled back into their normal routine, Hermione steadfastly ignoring all that had happened between her and Tony and the things he'd said whilst drunk that he admitted he hadn't meant. And she diligently ignored the glances he sent her way, too. Was she in denial? Most likely. But it was easier that way.

It was evening and growing late, the weather growing colder the closer they got to winter. Hermione had needed some time to herself and away from Stark Tower, and once she'd finished in her lab for the day, she decided to have a little time alone and take a walk around the block. She bundled up in a black peacoat and a grey woollen scarf, stuffing her hands in her pockets as she took the lift to the ground floor, preparing herself for the temperature change. At least it wasn't raining.

As she exited the lift and headed for the doors, she was unsurprised to see Tony by the reception desk, fiddling with a pair of sunglasses. She rolled her eyes and her attempt to sneak past him without him noticing was futile. Despite facing away from her, he knew she was there.

"Where are you off to?" He probed, falling into step beside her.

"None of your business," she responded. "I know you can't help yourself but stop being so nosy."

"Not nosy, concerned," he corrected.

"Concerned?" She arched an eyebrow. "What exactly do you think I'm going to do?"

"I don't know because you won't tell me."

She rolled her eyes, stepping through the doors and onto the street, the sky slowly darkening. "I'm going for a walk, I'm in need of some fresh air after being cooped up in my lab all day surrounded by chemicals and funky smells. I won't be long and I'll bring dinner back with me. I can't be bothered cooking tonight."

"I'll come with you."

"No, you won't." Hermione peered behind her, smiling at the tall redhead that joined them. "She is entitled to a break from you. And need I remind you that we have a late meeting to discuss the logistics and operations of opening the London-based offices now that you've finally shown interest and settled on a property?"

"Why would she need a break from me?" Said Tony, his gaze darting between her and Pepper. "She loves my company. And you don't need me there."

"Everyone needs a break from you," Pepper shot back. "And I don't specifically need you at the meeting, but it will give Hermione some peace and quiet," she folded her arms and Hermione snorted, ignoring Tony's look of betrayal.

"Maybe she should come with us? Who knows London better than a woman born and raised there?"

"No, thank you," Hermione interrupted before they started arguing. "I may know some of the geography, but I know nothing about the logistics that go into setting up or opening a new office. That's not my forte... I'm going for a walk and I'll bring back dinner, have fun in your meeting."

She gave them a little wave and sent Pepper a grateful look before she headed down the street and slipped from view, not giving Tony the opportunity to follow her.