Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Come on, Mr. Stark, pleaseeeeee.” [Y/N] pleaded as they kept trailing behind Tony like a lost puppy.

“Get lost, kid,” Tony waved his hand in the air, walking towards the main lounge of the tower. “Also, didn’t I tell you to not call me Mr. Stark anymore?”

“[Y/N] bothering you again?” Steve asked, not looking up from the newspaper he’s reading. He’s sitting on the couch while Sam and Bucky are sitting near him and having their own little fight.

“Mx. [L/N] over here won’t stop pestering me about us going on a vacation to Disneyland.”

[Y/N] said, “We’ve been doing countless missions every day, saving the world, kicking Hydra’s ass. The Avengers definitely deserves a vacation break.”

“Did someone say vacation?” Pietro suddenly appeared out of nowhere in the main lounge using his speed powers. “I’m up for that.”

[Y/N] grinned and placed their arms around Pietro’s shoulders, “See? Even speedster over here wants a vacation. Come on, Tony, I know everyone secretly wants a vacation.”
A few minutes later, Vision, Wanda, Rhodey, Bruce and Natasha arrived at the main lounge. “What are you guys talking about?” Wanda asked.

Thor answered Wanda’s question, “The young one wants a vacation.”

Tony groaned and crashed into a nearby couch.

“[Y/N] is right, Stark. Most of us could really use a vacation here.” Bucky called out. Soon, everyone is now staring at Tony, pleading for a vacation that he will pay for.

“Fine-” Before the billionaire finish his sentence, everyone cheered. Their little celebration about the upcoming vacation was halted when their red mission alarm in the Tower was activated.

“Another mission? Seriously?” [Y/N] grunted as they all hurriedly prepared for their sudden mission.

"That's the life of being an Avenger, kid."

"Hey, I'm not complaining.” [Y/N] shrugged.

Once they finished mini preparing for their sudden mission, they all ran towards the Quinjet and went inside. It was a bit quiet until Steve spoke up. His hands on the tablet.

He read aloud what was written on the mission file, “Fury said they found out another building of Hydra’s. We must sweep everything and find out if they have been keeping any information in there.

[Y/N] checked the time in their left wrist watch, 2:45 PM. ‘It’s already been 5 minutes since we’re in this Quinjet?’ They mentally asked themselves, a bit forgetting that Wanda can hear other people’s thoughts or read minds.

‘Don’t worry. Hopefully, this mission will be quick and we’re all just gonna chill in the living room.’ Wanda replied to her thoughts. The two of them gave each other a smile.

“About the vacation-” Pietro suddenly mentioned. Tony groaned while others broke out into laughter. “I’m serious!” He put his hands up the air in defense then laughs as well. “When will we schedule it? I do hope it’s-”

Tony cut him off, “Let’s all talk about it later. Right after this mission. Only IF everyone get’s out alive.”

“Ha-ha, Mr. Billionaire,” [Y/N] said, then giving him a smug look. “Did you forget you literally have a human time machine right here? If anyone dies later, I could just rewind and POOF! We’re all safe and sound.”

“We’re all gonna go back to the tower alive and in one piece.” Natasha stated.

Bucky joined in, “Don’t be such a jinxter, Tony.”

The rest of the ride was either just goofing around, giving each other snarky comments, or Steve trying to stop them because they have a mission to focus on.

∿
Everyone had arrived at the location where Hydra was doing experiments and planning evil plans. Everyone knows the drill and the mission already, sweep off Hydra guards in every floor, get information and stop the evil works.

They’re all divided into 2 pairs per floor level. The Hydra building consists of 5 floors. Steve and Natasha on the first; Tony and Rhodey on the second; Thor and Bucky on the third; Pietro and Clint on the fourth; and Wanda and [Y/N] on the fifth floor. Sam volunteered to check the entire building perimeters outside because he wants to have a “bird’s eye view”.

Meanwhile, Vision is just helping everyone by phasing through the floors back and forth. Then, Bruce is just at the Quinjet, waiting for everyone just in case they need the Hulk for later. Well, he mostly prefers to be there, he has some science stuff to finish anyways.

After 10 minutes of taking down Hydra guards and agents, they’re all almost done checking every room for any useful information or stuff. Wanda and [Y/N] decided to split in order to finish looking into every room as soon as possible.

[Y/N] had organized a movie night later and they want this mission to end so that they can start relaxing and hanging out. [Y/N] doesn’t have that much powers except for some enhanced agility, fast reflexes and reversing time. Although, some may confuse her reversing time powers for time travelling, both are very much different from each other.

They are about to check the last room, already assuming it’s the main room of the building due to how wide the doors are.

“Going in the last room now.” [Y/N] said as everyone had been communicating through the earpiece. “Might need backup, just in case.”

Pietro said, “We’re coming to your floor now.”

“Steve and I will catch up, there’s too many stairs.”

[Y/N] tried to break-open the big doors but was immediately cut off when Wanda effortlessly opened it with a swish of her hands. “Thanks.”

They both walked inside the room. An uneasy feeling appeared as their stomach gets twisted. Something doesn’t feel right.

Wanda was examining the other side of the room while [Y/N] ran towards the center as there is a note that was placed on the table.
They picked it up and read it out loud, “Dear Avengers, if you are reading this. You have perfectly walked into Hydra’s best trap. Tick, tick, tick. Time is running. Goodbye forever.” This immediately caught everyone’s attention.

[Y/N] was about to make a joke about the note on how amateur the note is. Like, Hydra doesn’t write those kind of notes but [Y/N] is guessing they hired a newbie to write that note. Luckily, they think it is not the best time to joke around when the building could blow up any minute now.

[Y/N]’s eyes quickly glanced the item that was beside the note and then their eyes widened. “WE HAVE TO GO NOW!”

It was a bomb. With only 10 seconds left until it explodes and destroys the entire building. They are pretty sure Hydra planted more around the area but wasn’t sure if there are more.

Wanda and [Y/N] swiftly tried to escape as Pietro appeared in front of them, ready to get everyone out safely before the bomb goes out.

They were all panicking and hurrying to get outside the building as soon as possible.

5...

“SHIT. SHIT. EVERYONE OUT.”

4...

3...

Pietro was about to grab Wanda and [Y/N] first until a random Hydra agent appeared out of nowhere, pointing a gun towards them and shot Pietro at the shoulder.

2...

“ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME-”

1...

The bomb went out and exploded, causing other hidden bombs around the building to slowly explode. It sounded like a loud shotgun that almost shattered [Y/N] ‘s eardrum as they are the closest person to where the bomb is.

They gave a quick glance of their left wrist watch to mentally note what time the bomb went out. This has been a thing for [Y/N] to take note of the time before and after using their rewinding time powers. 3:

“NOOO!” They shouted. They can feel themselves getting lifted up in the air as their hair levitates, getting ready for the entire body to be flown across the building floor. [Y/N] hurriedly pulled out their arms to rewind 15 minutes before it exploded. They chose 15 minutes because the Avengers have not yet arrived the Hydra area.

[Y/N] watched everything rewind but they stayed being lifted up in the air as they can still experience the exploded bomb effects. They watched their old self and Wanda examine the rooms and then slowly goes back to the staircase.

With only rewinding back to 5 minutes, they can feel themselves gradually feel tired and drained as they can only usually go back in time seconds by seconds.

But, they are determined to save their friends and family from Hydra’s unpredictable trap. Forcing themselves to go back 15 minutes. They can already feel blood coming out of their nose, this was the first time [Y/N] used their powers with great force.

Finally, they were able to rewind 15 minutes before; thus, everything goes back to normal and they immediately gets thrown off across the floor. [Y/N] groaned.

Not wanting to move for a while due to the pain of getting thrown to the ground and also because of the immense headache they are currently experiencing, they stayed lying on the floor for a short while. [Y/N] doesn't like how they have side effects of using the powers too much.

Now, they’re regretting they shouldn’t have used their powers hours ago. They used it to rewind several seconds out of pure boredom, and now they are facing the consequences of it.

Feeling heavily drained, they casually lifted up their left arm to check what time it is in their wrist watch. 3:03 PM. They all left the Tower around 2:40 PM, it was around 20 minutes of traveling from the Avengers Tower to the Hydra base that was located.

‘They should be arriving anytime soon.’ [Y/N] told themselves mentally. After resting their body on the floor for a few minutes, they managed to gain some remaining energy to stand up and walk towards the big room to diffuse the bomb.

Once they reached the main room, they grabbed unto the table for some support in case they accidentally stumble or fall.

[Y/N] stared at the ticking bomb. They have 12 minutes left until it explodes.

"What the fuck?" They muttered under their breathe. This is not a normal bomb. It's in Russian and the usual colors of green and red were replaced by pink and purple. What are they supposed to do now?

If only Natasha or Tony or Vision is here, then at least one of them can help diffuse the bomb.

[Y/N] limped around the room, looking for any sharp objects that could cut the wires. They can just rewind again if they accidentally cuts the wrong one. Well, if they can still rewind back in time.

“Fuck.” They cursed under their breath. Hydra is actually smart enough to make sure there’s no sharp objects around the room for the wires to get cut. [Y/N] then searched around her suit pockets in case they actually hid a cutter or a small knife somewhere.

Nothing. They groaned and carefully walked out of the room to find anything small or sharp in the hallways. Their eyes immediately saw the window and they smiled. They can just shoot or destroy the window and a shard of glass would be fine.

Forgetting that there are Hydra agents in the hallway, they all noticed them and went to shoot them. Before [Y/N] swiftly moved their hand, they counted how many Hydra agents were in the floor.

There are 5 agents. After [Y/N] rewinded time, they found themselves back in the room. Pulling out their gun again, they went to count how many bullets they have. 6 bullets.

‘I better not miss then.’

[Y/N] counted until 5 before they opened the door and shot all the Hydra agents carefully yet precisely. All the Hydra agents dropped dead on the floor, so much to [Y/N]'s dismay. [Y/N] never wanted to kill anyone, even if they're Hydra agents but they have no other choice as of the moment.

They aimed at the window and shot it, causing it to break. They limped towards it to grab a shard of glass. Not wanting to waste any more time, they tired to ignore the pain in their body as they sped up.

∿

Meanwhile, the Avengers are gearing up in the quinjet as they are almost near the Hydra base. Some were still joking around and throwing comments about their vacation until Wanda swiftly scanned the room.

“Where’s [Y/N]?” Wanda asked. Everyone stopped talking. They stared at the seat of the quinjet that [Y/N] was seating on just a while ago.

Natasha came into a realization ang gasped. “Something went wrong with this mission, [Y/N] rewinded.”

“Shit, shit, shit.” Tony muttered as he went to the pilot’s seat and sped up the quinjet.

This wasn't the first time that [Y/N] rewinded back in time during a mission, Natasha knew it her all too well.

They have arrived earlier than expected in the Hydra base. The Quinjet was about to land on the ground until a window from the very top of the building smashed which caught the Avenger’s attention. The moment they landed, Sam and Vision were the first to go out of the Quinjet, immediately going inside the building through the smashed broken window. Pietro swiftly went inside the building too.

The three of them went inside the room to see [Y/N] destroy a wire until it suddenly set off. [Y/N] turned back to look at them and their eyes widened, quickly pulled out their hand to rewind again.

∿

Okay, maybe the purple wire isn’t the correct one to diffuse. 'I'll try the other one.' They immediately cut off the pink one and it still exploded. Mentally groaning, they rewinded back in time for the last time.

They give up. The bomb sets off either way. And even if they want to go out of the building, they have no energy. Too tired from using her powers, too tired from the aftermath of using her powers, too tired from fighting. Too tired from everything.

[Y/N] walks towards the nearest wall and slid down, resting. They'll just hope the Avengers gets in here in time so that they can save her.

"Yeah. They'll come. Don't worry, [Y/N]." They tried to comfort themselves. There's only 3 minutes left until it sets off. Mentally pleading the Universe that the Avengers will appear to save them.

They started to sing Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon. It may sound cliché or weird but for them, singing this specific song soothes them whenever they feel alone or scared. [Y/N] feels like it helps lighten the mood.

Other than that, it's also one of the Avengers favorite songs. So, whenever the song play, [Y/N] was immediately reminded of the Avengers and they just imagine their usual reactions: random dancing around the room or unsynchronized and out of tune singing.

[Y/N] cracked a smile and closed her eyes, still singing Can't Fight This Feeling but their voice was low and raspy. "'Cause I feel so secure when we're together."

"You give my life direction. You make everything so clear."

Suddenly they heard their earpiece let out a static noises until it became clear and silent. They continued to sing lazily, "And even as I wander. I'm keeping you in sight."

"You're the candle in the window." They suddenly heard Pietro sing. Their eyes opened up as their eyes perked as if they had regained energies but they're still low battery.

"Pietro-"

Bucky joined in the singing, "On a cold, dark winter's night."

Wanda and Natasha chimed in, "And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might."

And soon, the others joined in, creating a not-so-perfect harmony but it still gives [Y/N] happiness, "And I can't fight this feeling anymore!"

Abruptly, Sam turned on the music and played the song but they all stopped singing as to let the song play.

“You guys came.”

“Of course we came Max Caulfield.” Tony remarked.

Wanda said, “We quickly noticed you used your time powers again the moment we saw that you were not in the Quinjet.”

“We’re about to reach the perimeter, now-”

“DON’T!” [Y/N] suddenly screamed, then regretting it since it just took away another energy. “It’s a trap. Hydra, I...I tried so many times already but it’s still the same outcome. Just, please...hurry. I’m scared.”

10 seconds left. "You know, Hawaii sounds like a good place for a vacation."

"We're about to land, now just hold on, [Y/N]. We're coming for you, pumpkin." Clint said as [Y/N] started to tear up. It was a random habit of Clint to call them pumpkin, [Y/N] likes to think of him as one of their fatherly figures.

5 seconds left.

“I have scanned the premises. [Y/N] is in the top floor building.” Vision stated and immediately phased out of the Quinjet and flew towards the building.

They have landed and quickly opened the door and scattered. Wanda used her powers for her to easily reach the top floor just like Vision did.

“I love you guys.”

Everyone halted as the building exploded. Their ears rang, some took cover as there would be flying debris or ashes coming towards them. Those who were near the building got thrown away as well.

Wanda landed on her back and coughed. She horridly stared at the building that her best friend was in, tears forming in her eyes.

Natasha ran up to Wanda’s side to help her up.

Wanda croaked, “We’re too late.”

∿

The Avengers just felt numbness and sadness for 6 months straight. Although some of them may not admit it, it was very well shown through their actions and how they cope.

The death really did a big impact in their lives. Especially when they're close with [Y/N]. [Y/N] was the only teen in the team that gives so much energy, life and mischief to their everyday lives.

But, now that they're gone. It seems like the light has been turned off and the energy in the compound is not the same anymore.

It's dull and quiet and no life.

*Denial*.

It was the first stage of grief. The death was unexpected and so sudden, it was a shock to everyone. They deny the death of the youngest Avenger. There are times one would roam the Tower and they can still feel the presence of [Y/N].

She had brought a lot of life, chaos, and happiness to the Tower that the Avengers enjoys very much.

The Avengers grieved together and then on their own. 3 weeks after the death, they held a funeral for [Y/N]. After the funeral, they all went back to the Avengers Tower in silence. They all sat down in the main lounge, comforting each other with one’s presence.

At first, it was silence. Slowly, they just randomly reminisce the memories they have with [Y/N] as if they didn’t die. It was denial once again. The Avengers cannot acknowledge the fact that [Y/N] had died, even though they just held a funeral for them hours ago.

Most of them acts like nothing happened. There would be a time where their day will continue as it normally would and they all act like as if [Y/N] is still alive.

Wanda would then be the number one person to pretend everything is fine and nothing ever happened. One specific time, Natasha passed by [Y/N]'s room and would hear Wanda talking as if she was actually talking to [Y/N].

*Anger.*

Oh boy, this one was the most chaotic stage that the Avengers had gone through. The Avengers did not handle this one very well. One line mistake and the entire room would be filled with angry shouts, comeback, sarcastic comments, and etc.

Small arguments and fights exists even before [Y/N] ‘s death. Though, it was a friendly argument and everyone would resolve it easily. But this one is different. Their arguments would last for days causing one or the other to not talk for a long time. Usually when things like this happen, [Y/N] would be the person to make peace.

There was a time where Steve suggested that resuming training sessions as a team would help lessen the grieving process, but boy he was wrong. The Avengers would just randomly let our their anger out of nowhere during training session, thus will cause an argument.

Anger is Hulk’s best friend. If Hulk’s anger is the worst, then you should be prepared when it comes to Hulk being angry about the death of his friend. Despite Hulk not liking most people, [Y/N] was one of the few people that Hulk actually likes besides Natasha. He thinks of her as a friend and a cool tiny human.

Everyone in the team seem to almost forgot about Bruce’s Hulk. So whenever they create a fight and Bruce gets to be a part of it, they are all doomed. Hulk was brought out and destroyed the entire floor. Thanks to Wanda, he was calmed down and prevented him from going out and wreck the city.

*Bargaining.*

Wanda locked herself in her room for 2 weeks straight, blaming herself and pondering about all the things she could've done using her powers to save her best friend.

Some of the Avengers grief process of bargaining was mixed up together with anger. It was not a very good match. Especially when it comes to Tony and Steve.

A simple conversation can start with coffee and end up with blaming each other and going after each other's throats.

*Depression.*

Vision felt like it was a need for everyone to be left one or at least talk to someone, which is a therapist. Though, one time Bucky kept ignoring his therapist's calls and messages. It may feel like such a bore or a stupid idea for others, but they all kept going to therapy sessions. It helps ease the pain.

Months after [Y/N]'s death is still painful, especially when others decided to leave the Tower and go back to their usual lives, either drowning in work or spending time with their family to somehow forget the pain they are feeling.

Thor and Loki went off-world and back to Asgard. They just simply couldn't bear the haunted memories around the Avengers Tower and New York.

Clint returned to his family in the barn, but would occasionally be visited by Natasha.

At last, acceptance. The last and foremost stage of grief that was never overcome by the Avengers. They were all stuck at a loop beginning from denial to depression and again and again and again.

Wanda indulged herself in cooking as frequently as possible but would also lock herself in her room again.

Pietro still haven't pulled pranks in a long time and he's always out and would just return at night. stopped pulling pranks around the tower.

Tony and Bruce continues overworked themselves in the lab; Steve would often get caught looking at the photos and going to museums. Natasha indulged would with more missions and returned back to Ohio to spend time with her family.

Sam offered Bucky to come with him back to his hometown and Bucky went along with him. Rhodey went back to serving the military; while Vision felt sadness too, he made sure to comfort the others as he knows how this affected everyone very much.

Some months after ignoring each other, they all decided to get back together and being away from one another actually gives more sorrow. The Avengers decided to heal together even though the wound may still be fresh. Healing takes time and a part of them knows that [Y/N] wouldn’t want them to mope around like this.

As much as they want to reach the stage of acceptance, they can't. The wound is still fresh. It will take a long time to stitch it up.

6 months had passed. Still no progress. It is still very difficult to move on. But when Tony saw a video of Spiderman in YouTube, he decided that recruiting a new Avenger the same age as [Y/N] would help heal the pain and distract them from it. Plus, he thinks the kid has potential.

Before tracking down where Spider-Man lives, Tony told everyone about it. However, some disagrees with this idea.

“And how old again is this Peter Parker person?” Sam asked.

“15.”

“You can’t be that serious, Tony. This Spider-guy is just a kid.” Steve argued.

“Oh yeah? And so was [Y/N].” Tony snapped back. "Come on, we need to give this kid a chance. Plus, they'd love to have them around."

Sam smiled. "They'd probably do. They're the same age, if they were here...they'd be best friends and partners in crime. I know it."

"This just sounds like we're replacing [Y/N]." Wanda said out loud, tears forming in her eyes. "It's just been months, it's way too early to replace her just like that, Stark."

Stark. Tony's face fell. It hasn't been a long time since Wanda called him by his last name. Well, at first they were on a last name basis until they all became close friends and decided to get rid of the last name basis and change to first name basis.

Tony replied, "No one is replacing [Y/N]. She's practically irreplaceable."

“Well, it feels like you are.” Wanda said with hurt in her voice as she stands up and leaves the room.

Pietro stands up as well and turns to Tony, “You are right -- [Y/N] is irreplaceable. But, I agree with my sister.” With that, he speeds out of the room, possibly to go after his twin.

Tony sighs. He looks around at everyone again, waiting for their replies. “Come on guys, give this kid a chance. All those in favor?” He raises his own arm.

Natasha slowly raises her hands, then Sam, then Rhodey. 4 out of 12 agrees.

“If I may,” Vision speaks up. Everyone’s attention shifted to him. “I understand that we are still in the process of grieving, and this act of letting in another teenager in the team unsettles most of us. But, I believe that we shouldn’t be consumed by our grief and continue on closing the door on anyone that may seem like a replacement for her.”

He continues, “This Peter Parker is not a replacement, no one could ever replace our beloved [Y/N]. But I think we should give this boy a chance. We all have abilities, skills, and powers that serves for the purpose of goodness and helping mankind. This kid seems to be on the same path as us. And so does, [Y/N]. I think we should give him a chance because we all know that they would too.”

Everyone was silent for now, contemplating on what Vision had just said.

They all looked at each other, eyes communicating as they finally decided.

“Okay,” Steve breaks the silence, speaking for everyone. “Let’s give this kid a chance.”

Tony grinned slightly, clasping his hands together. “I promise, you won’t regret this.”

Chapter Text

“I am regretting my life choices,” Peter exclaims dramatically, his eyes glued to his phone.

He just came out of his Biology class with Ned and heard his phone ding with a notification. It was their last class, meaning the school day had finally ended. Needless to say, they were both tired, especially after Peter arrived late to their P.E. class, earning three rounds of jogging around the gym as punishment.

Ned watches his best friend go through all the different forms of emotions: “Dude, your phone is going to melt if you keep staring at it like that.”

Inside Peter’s small phone screen is an open e-mail, which was sent by [email protected]

SUBJECT: YOU HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED AT STARK INDUSTRIES INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

“Open it! I wanna see what it says.” Ned urges him. “Why didn’t you tell me you applied for the Stark Internship Program?”

Peter just stared at Ned as if the answer was obvious, pausing for a while before replying, “That’s because I didn’t apply, Ned.”

Peter doesn’t recall going through the Stark Industries website and applying for an internship. He didn’t even know there was one. They both stop in their tracks; their heads are already forming ideas filled with listless possibilities and what-ifs.

“Oh my God, Peter. What if they know you are Spider-Man– what if you’re going to be recruited to be an Avenger– what if it IS illegal to be Spider-Man and–”

“Ned– Ned! Please stop talking.”

Peter finally clicks the email to see the full content. “You know what, let me read it instead,” Ned volunteers as he takes Peter’s phone from him.

He clears his throat to do his best professional voice that he can do, “Congratulations, Mr. Peter Benjamin Parker! After a thorough assessment of your application, you have been accepted to work for Mr. Tony Stark at the Stark Industries Internship Program. The program starts on Monday, October 23, 2017. We hope to see you.”

“--It starts next week already?!” Ned freaks out as he hands the phone back to Peter. “Dude, this is so crazy.”

Peter continues to stare at his phone, rereading it over and over as if it would change what was written in the e-mail.

“Okay, but what if this is a scam e-mail?” He asks, second-guessing. There is no way that he’s this lucky. And no way on Earth that they would know that he even exists.

Ned pulls out his phone and searches for Stark Industries. He clicks the contact information. They both held the phones side by side to see if the e-mail contact information was right and not a scam.

Ned puts down his phone and thinks of another crazy theory, “Do you think this is related to the [Y/N] [L/N] dying months ago?” Peter looks at his best friend as if he is crazy, when in fact he might be going crazy with all these insane theories. “What?”

“Dude, how is it related to the youngest Avenger ever dying?” Peter asks, confused.

Ned shrugs, “There are infinite possibilities in the universe, man.”

“-Or, just maybe Stark Industries saw that news article about me winning our robotics competition in Tennessee.”

“I still can’t believe you won, though,” Ned said. They began to walk again after stopping in the hallways. School was over, and yet there were still many students around – either hanging out, preparing to go home, in detention, or going to club practice. “You were against that Keener guy, he had awesome high-tech equipment!” He exclaims. “But– anyway, just imagine it. I could list numerous theories.”

Peter knows he would go back to the [Y/N] [L/N] topic, “I don’t even wanna assume.”

“Well, whatever happens–I’m still gonna be your guy in the chair. I called dibs first.” Ned and Peter immediately do their friendship handshake before parting ways. Despite living in Queens, the two teenage boys lived on opposite sides of the area. “We still on for the Lego Death Star tomorrow?”

“Of course, don’t start it yet without me!” Peter waves goodbye before heading to the train station to ride home.

On the way home, he opens his playlist to play a random song. Can’t Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon begins to play as Peter plugs in his earphones. The train arrives, he steps in, and grabs onto a bar to steady himself once the train moves.

His thoughts wandered back to Ned mentioning [Y/N] [L/N]. His curiosity is suddenly making him want to know more about [Y/N] [L/N], even though it has been 6 months since the news of their death, it is still fresh.

Everywhere he goes, he sees their face. Peter opens up Google, typing in Avengers. The site features numerous pictures and images related to the Avengers. Official images, images from the news, images from someone taken from afar, like a paparazzi. He goes to the list of members and clicks on [Y/N] [L/N], seeing her photo.

He continues to scroll for a bit before seeing a news article, YOUNGEST AVENGER, 15-YEAR-OLD [Y/N] [L/N] FOUND DEAD IN A COLLAPSED BUILDING. He was about to click on the online article to read it, but his music suddenly glitched. Peter is forced to go back in the music app to continue playing the song, but it seems to be stuck at 3:46. He tries to click play again, but it won’t let him. Eventually, the app crashes completely.

Weird. Peter sighs quietly. He decided to restart his entire phone instead, thinking it was another laggy malfunction since his phone is like 6 years old. The trains came to a halt at his stop. He exited as he made his way home. With his phone still restarting, he looks around his environment to entertain himself.

Even after commuting home almost every day, he keeps learning new stuff around his environment. Like, when that lamppost on 22nd street hasn’t been on for the past few nights, or that a rat was living in the corner garbage can across Delmar's Deli & Grill. Or that sleek black limousine parked outside his apartment building.

Wait, what!?

Peter skidded to a halt, eyebrows furrowing in confusion. Maybe it’s just there? He started to slowly walk to his apartment building, his eyes still not moving away from the sketchy limousine. He tried to look through the car, but the windows were too darkly tinted, and it was hard to see if someone was inside.

He hurried inside the building and took the elevator to the floor where he resided. He reached for his keys in his backpack and focused on his Spidey senses to see if there was danger around in the building. None so far. Good.

Peter inserts the keys and twists the doorknob, entering his apartment with Aunt May. He calls out to announce that he’s home. “Aunt May, I’m home!”

He reaches his living room and freezes to see Tony Stark sitting on his couch, talking casually to Aunt May. What the f–

“Peter! You’re home! Good, Mr. Stark over here was just telling me how talented you are, which I already knew because I know you are. Why didn’t you tell me you applied for the internship?” Aunt May remarks.

Peter could barely let out any words; his mind seemed to stop functioning properly at this moment, so he started to stutter, “I, uhm, I know you love surprises and I-I was gonna surprise you tonight–”

He’s geeking out internally. What do you mean Tony Stark is in his apartment, sitting on his couch, talking to his aunt about him?

“Uhm, hi! I’m..I’m–I’m Peter.” He says to Tony Stark, even though he probably knew that already.

“Tony,” Mr. Stark replies. “I was just telling your Aunt how insanely talented you are. I mean, you won that Robotics Competition in Tennessee last month over my guy? My assistant Happy showed me, and immediately I told him, I want that one.” He marveled at Peter. “Good thing you applied to my program. I’m sure you received the emails?”

Mr. Stark winked at him with both his left and right eyes. Why was he giving that a double wink?

Peter was debating whether to say that it was all a mistake. He never applied for any internship, let alone at Stark Industries. But he saw that hopeful and proud gleam in Aunt May’s eyes. He knows this is a great opportunity, too good–actually, way too good to be passed up.

“Y-Yeah. The– uhm, internship,” He nodded, confused. Should he act dumb and inquire? “What did I apply for exactly again?” Okay, maybe not that dumb.

Peter is still confused and speechless.

Mr. Stark added, “That’s why I’m here, Mr. Parker, to hash it all out.” He begins to stand up. “Can I have five minutes with you?” Aunt May was nodding and signalling Peter to usher Mr. Stark into his room. She had this look that says, Go for it!

“Uhh, sure. This way.” Peter says, leading Mr. Stark into his room. He caught Aunt May giving him a thumbs up before entering his room to “hash” out the internship details. Peter went in first, then Mr. Stark.

Peter feels like a little kid all over again. Like the ones who just met their hero, but Tony Stark is his superhero. He feels unprepared for this. What were they going to talk about? What should he say? A heartfelt gratitude for picking him for an internship he didn’t even apply for? Everything feels so surreal. Was he dreaming? Is he that stressed in school to hallucinate Tony Stark casually entering his room?

Mr. Stark closes the door, taking a look around his room. Was he analyzing his room or judging it? Peter couldn’t tell. He walks towards Peter’s desk table, amused to see some tech that was used during the 2000s. “Wow, what do we have here? Lots of retro tech. Thrift store?”

Peter couldn’t believe he had to say this to Mr. Stark, “Uhh…the garbage actually…”

“Ah. So, you’re a dumpster diver.”

“No–Yeah–well..” Come on, Peter, don’t embarrass yourself. Change the topic. “Anyway, uhm….” Should I tell him that I didn’t apply? Yeah, that could work. “Look, Mr. Stark– I definitely did not apply for your internship–”

Mr. Stark holds up his finger, cutting him off. “Nuh uh. Me first. I know who you are.”

Why does that sound so threatening?

“Uhm, what?” Peter says, laughing slightly in nervousness. Maybe Ned was right. Maybe they did find out that he is indeed Spider-Man. “What are you–what are you talking about?”

It’s so nice to formally meet you, Mr. Stark. This isn’t definitely making my brain so haywire. I am totally not panicking and sweating right now. I’m fine.

Mr. Stark pulls out his phone, a holographic video of him–Spider-Man–swinging away after beating up a thief. “How did you do those? Do they come out of you or do you make them?” Mr. Stark asks, talking about the webs.

Peter could feel his Spidey senses spiking up, getting busted as Spider-Man is almost the same feeling of danger. Mr. Stark sets down his phone on his table, the holographic video paused. Peter quickly moves toward it to inspect. So cool…

“Well, that’s on… on… YouTube right? Gotta be fake. CGI.” Peter tries to reason out, his eyes fixated on the screen. He didn’t notice Mr. Stark look up to his ceiling, where he keeps his Spidey suit in the overhead storage.

“What do we have here?” Mr. Stark pokes it with a stick he found nearby. Peter’s Spidey suit comes falling, attached to a string.

His senses felt it and bolted for it as he scrambled to hide the suit inside his closet. He leaned his arm against the closet, pretending to be cool and nonchalant.

Mr. Stark’s mouth twitched slightly, his eyebrows raised upwards at the sudden action, “So, you’re the Spider-boy–Spiderling.”

“It’s Spider-Man.”

“In that onesie? No, you’re not.” He clocked Peter.

But, it’s not a onesie…

“Does anyone else know?” Mr. Stark asked as he went over to the closet to grab the onesie suit that Peter had thrown in. Peter stared at him like a deer in headlights. Though he could feel his cheeks reddening once Mr. Stark was inspecting his Spidey suit.

“No one.”

Mr. Stark sighs and sits on his bed, hands still clutching the suit. “I’m gonna be real with you, but you gotta be real with me first too, kid. Why are you standing like that? I’m not gonna bite.” He motions over to the space beside him. Peter awkwardly scrambles to sit beside him.

Peter avoided his eyes, his heart rate increasing every second that he breathed the same air as Tony Stark. Is he busted? He couldn’t think of any other possible things that Mr. Stark might say in the next couple of minutes.

“Why do you do this?” The question caught Peter off guard.

Yeah, why does he exactly do this as Spider-Man?

Peter didn’t reply at first, his mind looking for the right words. It seemed silly to say his reasons, though he doesn’t exactly know what they were. All his thoughts could bring up was his Uncle Ben—the real reason for his decision to become Spider-Man in the first place.

But, how could he talk about Uncle Ben in front of Tony Stark when he could barely even mention the name to anyone, even Aunt May?

He could feel his throat tighten at the mere thought of talking about his Uncle Ben. Peter clears his throat, “Well, uhm, someone once told me that ‘With great power, comes with great responsibility’, and ever since I got bitten, I realized that I could use my powers to help people in need. It’s the right thing to do. I wanted to use my powers for good.”

Mr. Stark stares at him, deep in his thoughts. His eyes softening slightly before snapping back to reality, “Good job. You passed the test.”

Peter thought he was going to have a memorable, rare, and raw sentimental moment with Mr. Stark, but things aren’t going that way right now. “That was a test?”

“Yeah, and you passed it,” Mr. Stark pats his back, grinning. “So, how would you like to become an Avenger and live in the Tower?”

HOLY SHIT!

WHAT? WHAT. WHAT! WHAT?!

I’M GONNA BE AN AVENGER. No– I AM AN AVENGER NOW.

“Well, the internship is just a front,” Mr. Stark continues. Peter’s eyes were widening in shock and excitement. “Let me set some terms and conditions first. I know this is an opportunity you’re not going to pass up.”

He has a long list of things he wanted to ask Mr. Stark, but his mouth betrayed him. “You’re not going to tell Aunt May that I’m Spider-Man?”

Mr. Stark holds up his finger, shushing him. “The adult is talking. But, no–I’m not snitching on your Aunt. Secondly, every expense is paid for–and I mean, by me. Live in the Tower, let’s say, for a whole school year. I’m bribing people to make it look like you’re a live-in intern for my program. I think it’ll look good on your resume, don’t you think? Besides, we have an open position anyway. And you–” He waves the onesie. “–Are in dire need of an upgrade, Spider-Boy. What do ya say?”

Peter smiled and let out a shocked gasp, making sure he wasn’t squealing. “Yes! I mean–yes. Thank you so much, Mr. Stark! Yes, I accept–approve. I–yes.”

“Don’t make this sound like I just kneeled and asked for your hand in marriage. But, great answer.”

This is the best day of his entire life. He’s an Avenger now. Peter Benjamin Parker, an Avenger. He could be the youngest Avenger ever! Well, second to [Y/N] [L/N]. Speaking of [Y/N]... since they’re technically…gone, does this mean he’s a replacement for the young Avenger?

Mr. Stark was looking at Peter, and for a second, his eyes wandered to the poster behind Peter. It was a poster of the Avengers, including [Y/N]. Peter followed his gaze.

Oh.

He could feel himself dissociating as well. Should I ask about [Y/N]?

“So, who’s your favorite Avenger?” He heard Mr. Stark ask him a question, so he snapped back to reality again.

“Uhm,” Peter hesitated. “You.”

Mr. Stark pulled his gaze away from the poster and stared at Peter again, his eyebrows raised. He didn’t believe Peter. “Don’t lie, Parker. I can see it in your eyes.”

“Fine,” Peter looked down at his hands, fidgeting. “It’s [Y/N]...”

In the corner of his peripheral vision, he could see Mr. Stark, who nodded his head. Peter looks up again to see him standing up from the bed. So, he stands up as well.

“They’d be thrilled to have you on the team, if that’s what you’re wondering.” Mr. Stark smiles at him and pats his shoulder. “Welcome to the Avengers, kid.”