Natasha leaned back in her seat, her hands resting lightly on the tabletop, her fingers laced together as she met Pepper's gaze, took the accusations unflinchingly. Her voice is firm when she replies, completely unwavering, because if she had to do things again, she would still choose this path.

"You say that like Billy had complete control over what happened. He didn't. He set it in motion, yes, and he was the conduit for it, but he's been as much a victim of what happened as any of us. I'm not denying your right to know the truth, but it was meant to come from him, when he was able to give it. Knowing the real reason wouldn't have made you hurt any less, Pepper. It wouldn't have made what you lost any less real."