Pepper's eyes widen when Gene holds out the tenth ring, but the weight of what he's offering does not prevent her from taking it. If this is something he needs her to do, she'll do it. Carrying the ring for him is hardly a burden, except in that it was Tony's job. That is is Tony's job. She'll just return it when (if) he gets back.

"You've had it out here this whole time," she points out gently, but still closes her fingers around it to indicate she'll keep it. He is stronger than he thinks he is. Softly: "Do you think it'll get easier to wake up to other people the longer you wait, or harder? I don't think being out here in a hut that's falling apart is good for you, and I know the alternative isn't easy..." Patience. Not always her strong suit. Pepper would just really like to have him home. "Please just think about it?"