Well, even if she had in a way been part of the Apocalypse not happening, Pepper seemed like a nice person. He thought he wouldn't be bad, working with her.

"Well, you see, Adam mentioned- ah, rather a while back, I'm afraid- that since the grounds here are rather large, perhaps you might like some help. I'd like to help, if you wouldn't mind. But I would be interested in learning more about gardening either way."