#pepperony fluff

a/n: don’t be fooled by the title lmao this is full fluff, based on this post, beta read by @thebookwormslytherin

Amidst the chaos that always comes with nappy changing, Tony has an epiphany. He gently sets Morgan down, who’s cooing happily. He disposes of the dirty diaper, washes his hands, puts mildly scented baby-friendly hand cream on, all the while staring into space. He’s sitting on the living room couch, staring at his lockscreen that features his tiny family, grinning happily at the camera. He shudders once and calls his friend.

Rhodey hates his friend sometimes. Yes. he would die and kill for him, was best man at his wedding and is the first number on his speed dial. He also frequently gets his afternoon siesta by his oldest friend asking inane questions. Today, he has a strange quiver to his voice.

“Yes.” He sighs as he picks up the call, expecting a query on which cereal would be better for his baby once she starts solids.

“Honeybear, I’m-I’m confused.”

“What happened?”

“I just realized...I never asked Pepper to be my girlfriend. We live together and we have a baby, but we never like, established we were in a relationship. What are we, Honeybear? What if we’re just friends?”

Rhodes looks at his phone incredulously and has to hold back his giggles. “Did you, uh, talk to her about it?”

“What if she says we’re just friends? What do I do? Do I move out? Who gets Morgan. Oh my god, is Morgan illegitimate?”

“Jesus. Just...go talk to her. It’s gonna be okay.” is all Rhodey manages to say before he disconnects and dissolves into a laughing fit.

~

“Pep. We need to talk.”

“Hmm?” Pepper doesn’t look up from her laptop. Morgan’s been put to sleep ages ago, and the two are enjoying a glass of wine and winding up the day. 

“What are we?”

“What?” She looks up and chuckles.

“I’m serious. When did I ask you to be in a relationship with me? What are we, Pepper?”

“We’re friends. Pals. Happy?” She’s smiling affectionately at him now while he’s gasping.

~

Rhodey makes his way to their place for dinner three days later. He’s amused when Tony announces that he’s got an important announcement to make. He motions for him to go forth.

“So, uh. Pepper.”

“Yes, Tony.” Pepper can barely control her smile, but t disappears when Tony goes down on a knee.

“I know that there has been some confusion over what our relationship status has been.”

“Mhm.”

“And the other day, you called us friends.”

“..Yeah.” There are actual tears in her eyes at this point. Aware that they aren’t noticing him, Rhodey quietly slips his phone out and starts filming.

“So I’d like us to be a step above. Will you be my uh, best friend for life?"