Chapter 47: I am Ironman II
Inside Stark Tower...
The doors closed behind them, and the air inside the building was thick with tension. Coulson rubbed his temples, clearly irritated. "You just couldn't resist, could you?"
Tony shrugged, grinning like a kid who had just gotten away with something. "What? They were going to find out eventually. Might as well make it a memorable moment."
Pepper, still reeling from the shock, gave Tony a hard look. "Do you even understand what you've just done? You've put yourself—and Stark Industries—in the spotlight. This could bring a lot of unwanted attention, Tony."
Tony waved her off dismissively. "Relax, Pep. I've got it handled. Besides, it was time for a little honesty. What's the worst that could happen?"
Pepper crossed her arms, exasperated. "You really have no idea what you've just unleashed, do you?"
Coulson, recovering from his earlier shock, nodded in agreement. "This will draw more than just reporters, Stark. The military, this guy --SHIELD, even other countries—everyone will be watching you now. You need to be prepared."
Tony, still unfazed, leaned back against the wall, arms crossed. "I'm always prepared. And I'm not worried. Let them watch. After all, I am Iron Man."
Meanwhile...
Elsewhere in the city, Dave sat in front of a large screen, watching Tony's press conference unfold. His lips curled into a smirk as Tony made his grand declaration. "So, the cat's out of the bag," he murmured, leaning back in his chair.
Trish, sitting nearby, raised an eyebrow. "Tony Stark just openly admitted he's Iron Man. That's bold, even for him."