[Bruce isn't wrong; the one way she knows how to handle all of this, an entire existence beyond her imagination, is to parse it into fragments she can manage. Things like researching the workers, the positions, the history she can do. Networking, getting in touch with those in charge, even negotiating should she somehow find a chance. Her experience as a businesswoman may not serve her well in every scenario, but hopefully the traits that have made her successful at it would work in her favor here.]

You really do like him. Most people wouldn't be so gentle. [Then she grins a bit more honestly, because often Pepper would be in that number. Maybe Bruce is trying to hold back because of who she is to Tony, what they meant to each other, but he doesn't need to. Pepper's bluntness had been one of the first things that impressed Tony, back in the days when they'd been employee and boss. She cares for Tony, but she isn't often blinded by him.

Pepper dips her head in confirmation, yes indeed, she's been given a truly terrible assignment.] It's pretty tempting to just laugh in their faces--but you might not be wrong. [Although it's clear he hadn't been serious, Pepper can only imagine how the time Bruce has spent here has already worn on him. There are likely others as well, people who have been here longer, who might be feeling the weight of being away from their homes and their loved ones.

Besides, Pepper's never been one to simply stay still.]

What about you? What's your assignment?