He breathes in sharply at the touch, as grateful as he is disappointed that it can't linger. Then he's on his knees again before her and he has to just watch -- stare at her for long seconds as a feeling of belonging settles in his stomach, ridiculously strong. This is where he lives, by her side and at her feet. Anyone outside this room can believe what they want about their epic relationship that's lasted through drama unmatched, but here in a space that's only theirs Tony worships Pepper with all that he has.

His fingers are drawn to the straps, covetously sliding over them again before undoing them with his full concentration. It's inexplicably pleasant the way her rough heel scratches against his quadricep, indenting the skin as he works the buckles open and places a kiss to the top of her foot. She had questioned him before, and so his eyes flick briefly up as he removes her heel, nuzzling the leather against the side of his face before carefully setting it aside and reaching for her other foot.