[There are as of yet unknown factors that would weigh more heavily on Peggy's side than Rip's; the fact, for instance, that the young scientist in question doesn't care for Rip at all. It's only chance (or destiny, as some might argue) that has aligned the three of them thus, put Peggy in each of their orbits; without that connection, Rip would likely stand no chance of inspiring Fitz to return to work on his own.

And Peggy won't either, if she doesn't have faith in the possibilities.

She takes something of a protective stance, which Rip at least realizes on some level is fair, if not ideal. He doesn't know Fitz well enough at all to say if he will need a push, or if he'll simply retreat into his self-doubt and fear. But in the end, he supposes they all might get a glimpse of the Peggy Carter who eventually founds an organization, and who inspires those who come years after to look at her with respect and awe.

Rip cannot say that it is a sight he doesn't also want to see.]

That is all I can ask. [And good still might come of it, if Fitz refuses. He might at least share his research for those who can build upon it. Rip sits back against the couch once more, lets out a breath--lets out something almost akin to a laugh, now that the deal seems to have been struck.]

It's been quite some time since there's been even this much promise of progress against this place. I'll confess, it's quite a positive, yet unexpected turn for this evening.