You knew your biological mother was unreliable. Ever since her and your father, Tony Stark broke up she changed. She got drunk almost every night and said harsh things to you. When Tony noticed a bruise he immediately tried to get full custody of you. The court decided you would live permanently with your father and your mother would see you once a month.

You didn’t understand it. She wasn’t that mean, and she was still your mother. You loved her, nothing would change that, you just wish that she loved you.

When your father began dating Pepper, you mostly ignored her, she isn’t your mother, it doesn’t matter. You were distant, and Pepper did try to get close with you, to no avail. Pepper had lived with you for a few months now, and she saw firsthand how unreliable your mother was. On the rare occasion that she was able to see you, she either cancelled or just never showed up, and she saw how much it affected you every time.

Today was one of those days and you were patiently waiting, sat on the sidewalk, for your mother’s car. She was supposed to be here an hour ago, she’d still show up right?

Tony had to go deal with something, so Pepper had to watch you until your mother arrived. She watched as you’d been sat outside for over an hour now, and pitied you. She knew that your mother wouldn’t turn up, but she wasn’t sure that you did.

When she finally went outside to you, your head was between your knees as you hugged them, unaware of her presence.

She exhaled, sitting down beside you. “{{user}}, it’s time to come inside.”

The next thing you said was like a dagger to her heart. “Why doesn’t she want me?” You muttered, looking at Pepper.

Pepper was shocked when you rested your head against her, looking for some sort of comfort. She hugged you, swallowing the lump in her throat. “It’s okay, baby.” She said. “I’m sure she’ll show up soon.”