The spring breeze brought joy and happiness. Today was Pepper's birthday, and Steve planned to spend it with her.
A woman in love was wonderfully simple, willing to do anything for her feelings. She didn't need wealth or fame—just sincerity.
While most women celebrated birthdays with shopping sprees, Pepper kept it quiet.
They went grocery shopping together, returned home, and she cooked a meal. Dinner was followed by a cup of coffee and a business management book.
Simple, fulfilling, and exactly the life she preferred.
Pepper wasn't fond of shopping, having grown up quietly and independently. She preferred reading with Steve over wandering stores.
In the afternoon, Steve received a call asking him to return.
Hill had been given a shield painted with stars and a combat uniform modified according to WWII designs.
"Husband, be careful out there. The Middle East is complicated. The US military is stationed in major cities, but many terrorists hide in farms and rural areas," Hill said softly, adjusting his collar.
Her calm, caring tone reminded Steve of a wife offering advice before a mission.
"I will, Hill. If anything happens, just call me. I'll handle it. As your husband, it's my responsibility."
Steve didn't mention staying overnight at Pepper's apartment; it wasn't necessary. Since Hill wasn't jealous, there was no need.
Hill shook her head thoughtfully.
"Not yet. Gather information when you return. I've been investigating vampire activity lately, and Natasha will help. If I face difficulties, I'll contact you."
That was the advantage of a cold beauty—practical, realistic, and not jealous.
She hadn't lied before and couldn't handle everything alone.
Steve's seventy years of experience as a super soldier were intimidating even for her.
See, that's the perk of being a super soldier.
Strong body, sharp mind, unusually powerful constitution.
"We still have time this afternoon. Let's have a cup of coffee together before leaving the day after tomorrow," Steve suggested.
Hill raised an eyebrow, embarrassed, and replied, "Come to my apartment."
Two days later, New York Airport
The plane, originally scheduled for 10 a.m., was ready, but the most important passenger—Tony—was missing.
Rhode glanced at his watch anxiously. An hour had passed. "Is this guy late again?"
Steve observed the busy flight attendants. He had to admit—Tony's choice was impressive.
A blonde beauty in a stewardess uniform, long legs accentuated by silk stockings.
"Don't rush, beautiful lady. Heat up five bottles of sake," Steve said casually.
Rhode turned in surprise. "Captain, you can't drink on a mission!"
"We're not flying yet, and we'll sober up by departure. Beauty, turn on the music—if you can dance, dance." Steve flicked the switch.
A steel pole rose slowly, and nightclub metal music filled the private jet.
The cabin transformed into a private dance floor, lights rotating as if in a nightclub.
"Come, have a drink. Working with Tony has its ups and downs—might as well enjoy it while I can," Steve said, absent-mindedly watching the stewardess dance.
Ding: Slacking off at work until reaching the destination. Reward: Unlimited ammo version of the pistol.
Pistol? Well, better than nothing. Mid-game, facing Chita warriors, pistols were weak, but here they were a bit useful.
Tony arrived two hours late, reminded by Pepper.
"Boz, let's go together. I have something to discuss—I plan to make you president of Stark Industries.
You're not just my secretary anymore. Also, prepare paperwork: my father left 10% of the company shares to Steve."
"I thought he was dead. I didn't touch them. Now I'll transfer the shares back. Steve can't sell them or make decisions—only receive dividends." Tony explained while driving.
He wanted to retain controlling shares but avoid conflict.
Little Pepper's eyes widened in surprise as she wrote notes. "Anything else?"
"Nope. That's it. How late am I?"
"About three hours," Pepper replied. Happy, Tony's loyal bodyguard, followed steadily behind them despite Tony's reckless speed.
If Pepper hadn't met Steve, she might have doubted her CEO potential.
But after dating him, she realized leaving the secretary life behind and embracing CEO responsibilities would give her more personal space.
At the airport, the private jet door was open and prepped, but Rhode wasn't outside. Tony shrugged.
"Looks like Rhode's angry," he muttered.
Once aboard, Tony saw Steve and Rhode already drinking and dancing with the stewardesses he had hired.
They were having a blast.
Tony immediately frowned and retracted his earlier sense of superiority.
...
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