We Have a Hulk Problem (November 2004)

When Kate woke up the next morning she became aware of the smell of coffee. She slowly opened her eyes and saw Steve's face looking down at her. She felt much stronger than she had the day before, although she knew she wasn't back at full strength quite yet. She slowly sat up and gratefully took the cup of coffee. She then realized that she could hear two men's voices talking somewhere near their room. She recognized them as Tony and Bruce. Bruce seemed upset and Kate knew that Tony must have told him what Hulk had done to Serena.

"Is Tony going to let him stay?"

“Bruce, this is nothing against you. I know your an asset but the tower is a confined...space. Everyone knows your a good man and I need you in the lab,” Tony said. “Tony, this was a fluke. I should have waited for you to return to help me. Next time I will,” Bruce said. “There’s not going to be a next time Bruce. I almost lost my family. I can’t let there be, a next time. They rely on me to protect them. You are a great asset to the avengers but you can’t stay here,” Tony said. Bruce hated what was happening. He really liked the feeling of family. He knew Tony was right but he didn’t want to leave. Everyone here accepted him. The world outside the tower? Not so much.

“Alright Tony...can I say goodbye at least?” Bruce asked. “I don’t think that would be a very good idea. Just...pack what you need now and I’ll send you the rest,” Tony said as he moved toward the door. “I’m sorry Tony,” Bruce said. “Me too,” Tony said as he left Bruce’s room.