Fill 4 Card 2: Pearls and Lace

[innitmarvelous_og]

Pepper was hard at work in her study, reports and other paperwork related to the founding of a new company littering her desk top. She'd spent enough time as CEO of Stark industries to have grown accustomed to the demands of such work but she had no idea that laying the foundations of an entirely new company would be so challenging. As soon as she finished writing the sentence she was currently on, Pepper turned her eyes away from the screen, and immediately they fell upon the picture of her daughter.

Eva was five years old now with more curiosity and wonder than either she or even Tony sometimes knew what to do with. She's a perfect combination of both of her parents with her mother's feisty spirit and Tony's brilliant mind. Pepper loves Eva beyond any boundaries or measure, and she treasures each chance she gets to making unforgettable memories with her daughter. 

On a day where the sun was shining so brightly, Pepper received an invitation to attend a charity ball that was being hosted by the Maria Stark Foundation — an origination that Tony had founded in honor of his late mother. As she opened the invite and read, she soon realized it was a girl's only invite. The theme of the charity ball was "Pearls and Lace", which was a nod to Maria Stark's exquisite taste in both jewelry and fashion. With a smile, she accepted the invitation, knowing it was the perfect occasion to share a special night with her daughter.  

Excitement danced in the air when Pepper showed the invitation to Eva. Her daughter's eyes twinkled with ardor, "Mommy, will I have a beautiful dress too?" Eva asked, her voice teeming with enthusiasm.

Pepper gave her a warm smile and replied, "Of course, you may, sweetheart. Now, let's find the perfect dress for you that'll match the ball's theme." After making sure the guys in their aka Tony and Ethan would be okay without them, they left to go on a shopping adventure, and visited the city's most upscale boutiques.

It was in a small boutique tucked away on a charming street where they discovered a breathtaking dress. It was adorned with delicate lace patterns and shimmering pearls, the epitome of elegance. As Eva twirled in front of the mirror, her laughter filled the room, making Pepper's heart nearly burst with joy.

Finally when the night of the charity ball arrived, Pepper watched as Eva fluttered about the penthouse, eager to have her turn to get ready. Then the moment came when they were both standing in front of the full-length mirror, and Pepper couldn't help but marvel at their reflections. She was dressed in a gown that stunningly highlighted her poise and grace, while Eva was vision in her tiny pearl and lace dress.

Eva clasped her Mommy's hand as they descended the grand staircase, stepping into a world of glamour tempered by the philanthropic reason they were all here for the night. The ballroom was dazzling with bright chandeliers and tables adorned with shimmering pearls and lace.

While Pepper mingled with the other attendees, she couldn't help but take note of Eva watching her interactions with pride. But watching her Mommy with interest only last so long with the little girl, and soon she was talking to the ladies in the room on her own. One thing she was not as Tony Stark's daughter was shy!

In the midst of the elegant affair, Eva's eyes turned to a quiet corner of the ballroom where an elderly sat alone. As she watched the lady for a little while, Eva began to wonder why she was alone. She thought the lady looked sad, and so she ventured across the room.

"Hello," the little girl said sweetly, "Would you like me to stay with you and talk to you since you don't have anyone to talk to?"

The lady's eyes brightened with gratitude, and she nodded at Eva, "I'm Mrs. Montgomery, dear. What's your name?"

"My name is Eva. Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Mont...Monty!"

The woman smiled, as she realized that the child didn't quite know how to pronounce her name.

Later, that evening when they were on their way home from the ball, Eva exclaimed, "Tonight was so fun and magical, Mommy!"

Pepper leaned over and kissed the top of Eva's head, "Yes, baby, it really was. And while pearls and lace might be beautiful, it's the kindness and love we show others that makes life truly remarkable."

"You mean like me and Mrs. Monty?" Eva asked.

Placing an arm around her daughter's shoulders, Pepper murmured, "Yes, my love, like you and Mrs. Monty."