[She means it to be an escape, but Tony doesn't take it, and that worries Pepper all the more. She risks shifting closer to him, moving deliberately so she doesn't disturb Elicia, stopping when her leg is lightly pressed against his. He leans his head back, and Pepper reaches out, gently raking her fingers through his hair.]

I think the people who matter already know. [Like Pepper, and Elicia, who saw so much good in Tony she curled up in his arms and went to sleep. She hesitates, eyes on the girl, then takes a deep breath.]

We could take her in. [God, Pepper wishes she sounded more sure of what she's saying. But this ground is new and treaterous for both of them, and Pepper really doesn't know what to say to make things better.] If the other people who live here can't take care of her.