Stark School: Pepper and Bucky and Open
Pepper turned suddenly and stared at him, a look of shock taking over from where the concern had been a few moments before, and then it softened and she nodded. "No, you're right. You're exactly right. Angry means we still have the ability to fight back, defeated means they, whoever they are, have already won. No need for an apology, you only said what I'm feeling."
She walked back to her desk, her eyes wandering down to the bag at his side. "Take all the time you need. I'll see that your classes are covered and redirect any questions the students might have. You'll keep me updated?"