Chapter 55: CH-55. Does Pepper Know?
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"If possible, let him call the police to have you arrested."
Jaxon looked at Tony Stark, who was still eating pizza, and an idea suddenly popped into his mind.
"Tony, are you interested in showing up?"
"If you're willing to come, I'll personally cook you some authentic oriental food sometime."
Tony Stark had no interest in going out, but the thought of Jaxon cooking for him seemed very appealing.
"To avoid embarrassing you, I'll come over!"
"Where are you?"
"Madison's Restaurant."
Tony casually remarked, "Nice choice."
"Just so you know, I'm extremely picky when it comes to food."
Jaxon nodded, smiling, "No problem."
Jaxon hung up and returned to the table.
Strange couldn't believe how familiar Jaxon seemed to be with Tony Stark. It appeared Jaxon hadn't been lying.
Christine didn't immediately throw herself into Jaxon's arms due to his status but instead apologized, "I just found it a little hard to believe. I shouldn't have doubted you."
"It's okay. I'm still a student and haven't made a name for myself yet. It's natural to have some doubts."
For the first time, Strange felt genuinely frustrated. However, he wasn't about to give up on undermining Jaxon.
'Even if he's richer than me, so what? Money doesn't define one's abilities.'
---
Tony Stark wasn't able to arrive immediately, so Jaxon and the others went ahead and started eating.
The three of them continued their conversation. Strange still acted arrogantly and targeted Jaxon every chance he got.
But Jaxon, calm and collected, handled it with grace, which only made Christine's admiration for him grow. Ironically, Strange's hostility was helping Jaxon's case, as Christine responded by showing more interest in Jaxon.
---
Finally, after over half an hour, dinner was finished, and Tony Stark arrived at the restaurant.
Tony noticed Christine right away. She was indeed a very attractive woman, and if Jaxon hadn't been there first, Tony might have tried to get to know her himself.
"Jaxon, I came here specifically so you'd cook for me sometime." Tony said with a grin, "Are you touched?"
Jaxon laughed, "Nope!"
"You're breaking my heart."
After a quick exchange, Tony asked Jaxon to step aside for a private chat.
"Sorry, but I need to borrow Jaxon for a moment. We have a few things to discuss." Tony said to Christine.
"Of course."
Jaxon, not entirely sure what Tony wanted to talk about, excused himself, giving Christine an apologetic smile.
Once alone, Tony dropped his casual demeanor and grew serious.
"Jaxon, I know you and Pepper have been seeing each other, right?"
"So, what exactly are you doing here?"
"I think you should be committed."
Jaxon clapped Tony on the shoulder, grinning, "Brother, coming from you, the ultimate playboy, that's rich."
"Look, Pepper is my secretary and someone I'm very close to. She's practically family, and I can't just ignore it if you're not serious."
Jaxon nodded, "I get it, Tony. Don't worry; I don't plan to let Pepper down."
Tony raised an eyebrow, "What's that supposed to mean?"
"It means I'm different from you." Jaxon replied, "You were always just looking for the thrill of the moment, never thinking about the future."
"But I genuinely care about them, and I want to spend my life with them."
Tony was a bit taken aback, "Does Pepper know?"
"Not yet. You know how busy she's been. I'll talk to her soon."
Tony sighed, "Just make sure you don't hurt her. She's one of the few people close to me."
"She's important to me too, Tony. I'll do everything I can not to hurt her."
"Good." Tony nodded, feeling reassured, "Pepper says I've got a warm heart, but I think it's just indigestion."
Jaxon chuckled, "She might be on to something, Tony. Under all that armor, there's a soft spot."
Tony rolled his eyes, though he was secretly pleased, "You'd better not tell anyone."
Then Tony changed the subject, "By the way, are you interested in racing?"
"Pepper's coming too. She's got a mission, but it's also a chance for a little break."
"You can pretend I'm not there—I'm just there for the speed."
Now that Tony was no longer dealing with palladium poisoning, he wanted to let loose and have fun.
"Racing? You still enjoy that?"
"Why not? If I were competing with my suit, I'd definitely smoke them."
Jaxon thought for a moment. Taking a short vacation with Pepper to relax sounded like a good idea.
"When?"
"About two weeks."
"Alright. I'll make arrangements and surprise Pepper."
"Great! And don't forget, you owe me some Chinese food."
"I'll make sure it's top-notch."
With that, Tony settled in and ordered some food.
---
While Jaxon and Tony were chatting, Christine was talking with Strange. She couldn't hide her favorable opinion of Jaxon.
"Strange, I think Jaxon's a good person. Don't you agree?"
"I… don't think he's all that great."
Christine shook her head, "Choosing a partner isn't just about talent or skill; it's about character too."
"Jaxon is kind, considerate, down-to-earth, and sincere."
"He doesn't focus solely on himself but pays attention to those around him. I feel comfortable and relaxed when I'm with him."
"I really like that."
Strange felt uncomfortable; this was his first experience of rejection. And not because he'd lost to Jaxon but because he'd lost to something intangible—feelings.
Over the years, he'd been arrogant and self-centered, never really having friends. So naturally, Christine's good looks, personality, and skills had impressed him.
But now, her intentions were clear.
Strange wasn't a fool and understood what was happening. He was too focused on himself, while Jaxon was thoughtful and considerate.
With no choice left, Strange kept his feelings buried.
"I… I support your decision."
Christine smiled, feeling relieved. She had successfully set her boundaries.
"Thank you, Strange."
As Jaxon and Tony finished their chat, they overheard Christine's evaluation of Jaxon, and Jaxon couldn't help but smile.
It looked like things were progressing nicely.
When he returned, Jaxon acted unaware of the conversation, "Tony and I are done talking. How about you two?"
Christine seemed pleased with the outcome of the evening. Now that she'd gotten to know Jaxon better, she could continue building on their connection.
"We're good too."
"Do you want to head back? I can drop you off." Jaxon offered.
"Thank you."
Christine gathered her things, and Jaxon walked her out, saying a quick goodbye to Tony.
He escorted Christine back to her apartment building. She was more reserved than Vanessa, who had invited him over that first night.