"Probably. Elaine Potts is a scary lady," he says in his defense, but it's all affection. He loves Pepper's mom like he had his own, they were all already a family. It was just a matter of finally making it official.

But then he has to take them in all over again, him still in his suit and her... "Do I... Pepper." He kisses the side of her face, hunger and love in his eyes in equal measure. "Is this my birthday present?" One hand comes up to squeeze a breast, covetously feeling her through the lace. It's a damn good birthday, maybe even the best.

"I love it. And you. God fuck you're gorgeous."