Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Peter was out as spider-man. A year and a half ago May died and everyone forgot him. He thankfully still had documents, so getting into Empire State University-although not his top pick-was easy enough to get a scholarship. He thankfully found a job near his dorm that paid quite well. 

His physics degree was drawing closer, with an early graduation. It was particularly easy when having an internship with Tony Stark, not that the world would believe him anymore, the man not around to confirm. Flash would be ecstatic, if he still remembered. 

Enough depressing thoughts! 

The “super villain of the week” decided today was the day to attack. It was Rhino again, another thing that's new. His universe's variants of Peter 2 and 3’s villains are just as evil. A lot less dead like theirs though. Thankfully it's not aliens again. Knock on wood! 

Right the fight. His attention was momentarily drawn from his thoughts as the man charged at him. Swinging to the left he narrowly missed being knocked back into the hole he just climbed out of. Perfectly shaped like his body. Now that's impressive. 

The gash on his chest leaked steadily, it was burning now. Probably his healing. Hopefully his healing! He should eat more and get a better night's rest. The Rhinos mechanical suit was stuck in the Peter sized hole in the road and grunted, sending smoke into the air. 

“Uh uh uh” Peter said, wagging his index finger in front of the man like he was a kindergartener who got caught in the cookie jar. “We don't do that, it's bad for the environment.” He huffed again, if looks could kill, the glare he was sending Peter as he webbed him up would have reunited him with May. 

……….

Let's ignore that thought!

The thought that's slowly taking over his brain right now is plain and simple. 

Ow!

Once he made sure the police were done and in no danger he swung away, listening to the thanks that were thrown at him, they were far away but sounded right next to him. That was still freaky sometimes. 

He collapsed onto a rooftop, it was both far enough away, but not too far from his territory. Although the other vigilantes didn’t mind much, always welcoming him. He hasn't met Daredevil yet, but soon. Hopefully. 

Wow! This hurts!

What the freak was on that horn?? 

Finally getting up he tried to jump off the building and over to the next. Blinding white hot pain made him lose his concentration. Falling right into the smelly abyss below, of urine and feces of every kind, and the remnants of dinner from the tenants in the building from what smelled like the past month. 

A dumpster. 

Fun. 

I'm just gonna take a nap here.

The pain lulled him into a nasty slumber. The bags were squishy, which first of all. Ew. Second of all, very comfortable with his exhausted and battered body. 

_________

The news was playing in the background. Eddie was taking a much needed nap in their shared room. Even Venom felt his exhaustion. Instead of taking a nap with his husband, he decided to clean up a bit. Do the dishes, mop, take out the trash before it overflows. 

He had gotten much better at controlling his goopy limbs. He didn’t break any of the glassware and never left residue behind. His cooking was better as well, keeping his husband happy and healthy, and full. 

As the rhythm of cleaning the dishes and the floor took over, his mind wandered. Venom had talked to Eddie about adopting, raising a child, even a teenager. It was all they wanted. 

Their apartment even had a room set up. Nothing on the walls yet, but the bed was made, there was a desk and computer. It was regularly dusted by himself too. All they needed was someone who would accept Venom with Eddie. Someone respectful and k-

Crash

Venom blinked out of his thoughts, peeking into the living room to check Eddie was still asleep. Thank god he was the heaviest sleeper on the planet. Venom watched him for a moment, his loud snore annoying to others, but like a sweet siren call to Venom. 

He ignored the sound from outside and kept clearing. Once done he threw the paper towel he used to clean the counters in the completely full trash bag. 

Perfect. 

Tying it shut he opened the window in the living room, it was a straight shot to the trash can. They weren’t too far up, only the third story, the resounding crash of glass bottles from a meal didn’t wake the neighbors.

Thankfully. 

Making sure it didn’t miss the dumpster he watched it fall, but instead of hearing the crunch of glass shatter he heard a bone. And a groan. 

Was someone in their dumpster???

Did he hurt them??

Venom quickly darted down, stretching as far as he could, reaching just barely inside. There, in bright red and blue spandex. The spider child! Venom had tried to get Eddie to interact with the child, he clearly needed help, he was underweight! 

Next he noticed the gruesome slash on his chest, it smelled nasty. Like the spray they used to keep spiders and ants out. 

Oh. 

He listened when he heard Spider-man was fighting the Rhino on the news, and heard about him getting cut with his horn. It must’ve been covered in bug spray. 

That worked???

Shaking away the thoughts he lowered some more goopy limbs to hang next to his head, pulling out the young one with care. He cradled his head and brought him into the open window. 

“Eddie!” Venom whispered, waking up the other tenant. He blinked blearily at Venom, and promptly slipped off the couch with a yelp noticing the figure in his black limbs. 

“V- where did you find Spider-man!” Venom ignored the man, pulling the child into the comfy couch. “I found him in the dumpster Eddie! Can we keep him?” Venom pleaded with the other, cleaning the wound with water and applying the only thing they had, toilet paper. 

Eddie sighed, “No V, we can't keep a man. Plus he probably has a family to get back to.” He eyed the mask covering the secret millions of people wanted to know. With a quick hand he pulled the mask off, venom didn’t give his husband a second glance, trying to get the toilet paper to stay with tape from their left over Christmas gift wrapping. 

A sharp gasp was heard. Venom looked up for a moment. His husband was clutching his hands to his mouth like he’s a damsel who just saw a scandal, his ring glinting in the dim light of the room. 

Finally managing to keep the “bandages” on, pulled a blanket from the basket beside the couch, then a few more. Just to keep him warm. 

“That's a child  V! He’s been doing this for four years! We moved to San Francisco and back in that time! Oh god he's not older than 18!” Venom wrapped his slimy limbs around his husband, a reassurance hug. 

They would help this child!

Chapter Text

Peter woke up in pain. Immense pain. What the freak was on that idiot's horn!

The next thing he noticed was food. It smelled really good. He split his eyes open a tad to find his mask off. 

Crap!

The next thing he saw was probably a bigger shock. An alien. Cooking. Black goopy tendrils swished around the kitchen with precision. His stomach growled involuntarily loud. Drawing the attention of the alien, and the man it was connected to. 

Holy crap! That's Eddie Brock! A reporter for the daily bugle! Who also knows his identity! 

In his freak out he failed to notice the alien almost in his face. Shrieking - in a very manly way, like the man he is, because he isn't a kid anymore - he jumped to the ceiling. Clinging to it for dear life. 

“V, let me talk to him first.” Eddie said, standing up while setting down his coffee. “Hey kid,” he said with a little wave, Peter pressed more into the ceiling. “Listen, I know it's scary. I'm a journalist for the Bugle, you’re Spider-man. But listen, it's only JJ with a grudge, I won't rat you out. Swear.” Peter relaxed a bit at the words. As if to emphasize what he was saying Eddie crossed his heart.

“Rhino had bug spray on his horn, that's why the wound exhausted you more than it probably would normally.” The man said, taking up his seat again. 

Peter looked down to his chest. 

Odd bandaging technique. 

“V did them.” Eddie said, not even looking at him. “And who is this"V "?” He asked tentatively, voice hoarse from miss use. Didn’t need it much if no one talked to you. Eddie seemed surprised he had even spoken. 

“The one cooking you way too much food.” He said, looking back to the table, munching on a piece of bacon next to his pancakes. His stomach rumbled again. 

“Come take a seat.” “V” said, pulling out a chair, setting down a plate with a sizable stack of pancakes down. “The spider must eat!” He cheered sticking out a goopy tendril, a hand forming. 

“I'm Venom!” He introduced. “Peter Parker.” He said, shaking the hand?

__________

It had been a few months since the first breakfast in Eddie and Venom's home. Eddie gave him his number, which was also Venoms. They were also married. (which peter totally wasn’t completely impressed by) 

Peter had spent quite a bit of time with them. The company was enjoyable, and the food amount was what he needed. They asked Peter about his family, school, and life plans, and didn't push when he couldn't answer something. 

It was nice to have someone to talk to, vent to if his day was hard. Or even just grieve all he lost. They didn’t know the full extent, just that he lost his immediate relatives. 

One afternoon, Peter was headed to his dorm to change. He just had an ethics lecture, nothing fancy (after his way too long day). 

After the relatively boring lecture he stopped by the Bugle to drop off a few new pictures he had taken of himself (Spider-man), gaining a sizable amount of cash to his account for them. Once that small errand was done he did his daily walk to where MJ works to get a coffee and work on homework before heading home. 

Mj no longer worked there and Ned never came in anymore, they must be off at college doing great things, but the routine was nice and they made good coffee. Sometimes it still hurts to think about them but it was getting easier as the days passed, someday he would like to reconnect but he’s slightly gotten used to the idea without them. (and if it sometimes was a little more difficult losing Ned, his best friend since he was little he wouldn't mention it to anyone.)

When he finished some of his work he made his way to the Brocks apartment (home) where he had been staying for the past while. They were there for him, willing to feed him, and he didn't have to pay rent. It was a triple win!

He entered the house with the spare they left him. It fit nicely into his key ring. The key to his dorm, to his office at the bugle (which he didn't use much because he usually just printed pictures, dropped them off, and left), and to get into the Brocks. This wasn’t a bad new start. 

Venom was cooking pasta, the scent overpowering his nose. It was a welcoming treat after his long day. 

Three tests!

He said as much to them. Complaining that his teachers and the universe were working together against him. Eddie chuckled, setting down his phone and listening. Probably scrolling the internet for his next story. 

Once dinner was ready they ate in relative silence, aka Venom talked the whole time while Eddie and Peter slurped down the noodles covered in delectable alfredo sauce. 

After dinner they settled on the couch, ready to watch a movie of Peter's picking. They had been letting him pick a lot recently in their house. When he finishes his degree he’ll pay them back for the help and live on his own instead of burdening them any longer.

“Hey Pete?” Eddie asked before pushing play on the movie he’d picked.(empire strikes back). “Me and V had a question.” Peter watched their expressions carefully. Hiding the pit growing in his stomach with a practiced confused face. Looks like he’d have to find a place much sooner than anticipated.

.

.

. 

“Be our son!” Venom shouted, tired of the long drawn out silence. Peter just gaped at them. Eddie sighed exasperated, looking at his partner. 

“We were gonna ease him into it V.” He chastised, no real venom (haha get it) behind the words. “We have been talking about getting a child, we have a room set up and everything. It's just V scares most people. And these past few months have been nice. Obviously you're legally an adult, it would be more persuado than adoption!” Eddie seemed out of breath, both from anxiety and talking too fast. 

Before either could come up with a way out, another option, maybe an excuse. Eddie's arms were full of spider. Tears streaked down Peter's face, he had started full on ugly sobbing before he gave an answer. Venom was wound around them like a protective shield as Peter agreed. He vowed silently not to let what happened to the rest of his family happen to them.

They fell asleep on the couch that night. Tightly wound around each other. 

_______

They couldn’t legally adopt him, being a legal adult and all. But they were already family enough to each other. The room Venom and Eddie had saved for a future child was his. 

Nothing changed for a while, Peter left his dorm room, which he thankfully didn’t share with anyone. His few belongings fit into a single box. He still worked for the Bugle, sending in pictures of him, less for the money now because Eddie gets a very good pay, and more for the familiarity of setting up the camera and taking a personal photoshoot. (And JJJ would have his head if he stopped getting Spider-man pictures from him for the front page.) 

He still missed his family, his friends, Mr. Stark. But they were gone. He allowed them to take up less of his heart, allowing for new people to come in, everyone had their own special place but so did Venom and Eddie, and they deserved that space.

He invited them to May’s grave a few days later. She’d love them. And he wanted to tell her he was safe, happy, and loved. She would be glad to know, proud he had found a way to persevere. 

Sitting in front of the grave, tears streamed down his face. It had been two years now, the anniversary in a few days, and he’d be right here then too. Less happy than he is now, telling her of his past few months. 

He could almost hear her soft voice in the wind. Wrapping around him like her hugs. The air was cold, but all he felt was warm. Eddie sat next to him, a reassuring hand on his shoulder. 

“Hey! Who are you? Why do you keep visiting this woman's grave!” A voice said harshly from behind them. Effectively stopping the steady flow of tears they turned around. Eddie stood in front of him, to shield him. Venom pulled a few tendrils from behind his lover's back, hidden from view for now. 

He felt his breath hitch looking at who was snapping at them. 

Happy. 

Peter put a hand on Eddie’s shoulder. 

“I see you here all the time. You never explained how you know her, go do something respectable with your life!” Peter helplessly looked into the anger in Happy's eyes, there was still the hurt of her loss in them but it was dimmer, maybe he was moving on too.

“Sorry sir, it's just she helped me a lot back at the shelter after the blip.” He said, looking down to his feet. He could feel Eddie’s hand on his shoulder.

“Oh.. I’m sorry kid, ive just had a rough couple of days. I understand how you feel, but maybe don't visit a woman who you didn't know so often.” Peter saw the anger leave Happy's eyes, but the next words still stung. Peter nodded and grabbed Eddie's hand and left. 

That night at dinner Venom and Eddie tried to ask who that man was but all they got were short answers or none at all, Peter was oddly silent and went straight to bed when they finished eating. He thankfully had the excuse of an early morning lecture.

Chapter Text

It was a difficult day. Everyday was, but last night, being yelled at by Happy was putting a toll on his mental health. He was getting better, he had his dads, but the one adult he had left yelling at him that he was defiling his aunt's grave broke something. It was like something in both his heart and mind snapped.

Now here he was. Sitting in his English class. Not at MIT with his friends like he had imagined, surrounded by his family and Tony. No. ESU. alone. (not completely but he might as well have been, he had no friends, only classmates he’s talked to once and his new parents.) 

He was listening but not processing the words his teacher was spewing. She was talking about their final. It was due in 3 months but she wanted to give them all time to think about and complete it. Everything was muddled and confusing only then did he snap back to reality when people started packing up. Looking around in a daze his brain caught sight of the white board.

Describe your family to someone who's never met them before.

Peter gaped for a while, the room was filling with early students to her next class. Finally breaking out of his daze Peter grabbed his stuff and went to talk to his teacher. 

“Ma’am,” he said softly, making her look up from whatever was on her computer. A sweet smile gleamed at him. Like she’s never experienced hurt or hardship, like life is perfect. And maybe for her it is. 

“I was wondering if my paper could be shorter than the 10 pages you originally said. I have lost most of my family.” He said, lowering his voice more. The ground was suddenly much more interesting. Oh and look! His shoes! All new and shiny. 

She looked at him with pity in her eyes, smile turning sad. “Of course dear, I understand, if it's too painful for you and writing it would be difficult please let me know, I can assign a different prompt for you.”

“Uh no that wont be necessary, thank you ma’am.” he smiled at her the best he could, but by the sad look on her face it wasn't very convincing.

She walked him out of the classroom, comforting hand on his shoulder. Not even class was a distraction from his life. Maybe he should lock himself in his room till he no longer has problems. 

……

That would probably make it worse. 

Sighing he walked back home, only a mere 2 hours later he was swinging around the city, doing what he always did when his mind was too full. Patrol. Something about punching someone who definitely deserved it was extremely therapeutic. 

As he was patrolling he only had one thing on his mind currently, telling his new dads about his past. His entire past, he just hoped it wouldn't mess up Dr.st- Stephens spell too bad. A hop skip and a train ride later he was standing in front of the door. 

Did he want to do this?

It was just his dads. It's fine. Probably. 

Opening the door, it was chaotic. But the normal chaos. 

They weren't quiet or questioning. Just themselves. Peter smiled and took off his shoes leaving them at the rack by the door. He set his stuff down in his room before heading to the kitchen and eating the meal Papa had set out. 

It was a mix of anything and everything for his metabolism. He was always feeding Peter, talking about how he was underweight and needed nutrients to save people. 

Super heroes only helped others if they helped themselves. 

This wasn’t bad. Not at all. His Dad was on the couch, a plate of pasta in his lap, completely ignored. He was watching the news, probably looking out for another story. 

His Papa was cooking, music blasting around the small kitchen from a small radio. Venom always sang while he cooked, so Peter made him a radio. It was his first gift to them, it made his dads cry for a good few hours. 

Yeah, he thought, looking around him again. Maybe it won't be so bad. He just won't tell them everything right now.

Chapter Text

“Peter, sweetheart, we have some people we’d like you to meet.” His dad-Eddie-said in the middle of his turn. They started a tradition a few weeks ago to find some time during the week where they order something in and play games. Tonight was UNO; and his papa-Venom-was winning. 

His dad had placed a red two, he was currently trying to decide what to place down. He had a green two, but it was his only green. He also had plenty of red to get rid of. Humming acknowledgment, he played a red six, three cards left. 

It was quickly his turn again before his dad continued. Focused on trying to win, even with his twelve cards, papa was very ruthless with the plus twos. “Well, we have these friends-” he started before venom interrupted. “-Best friends!” Peter chuckled at his dads exasperated sigh. “Yes, best friends, who are also your aunt and uncl- Hey! Venom stop that!” Peter was too busy letting his dads words stir in his mind, and aunt and uncle. 

Again.

He was brought back to the moment when he felt arms around him, two human and warm, two more that were goopy. He wiped away the tears he didn't know were falling

“So when do I get to meet them?”

________________

They were at the nicest apartment New York had to offer, that was a 100% fact, ignoring that he's been in Tony's penthouse before. 

Best not to think about that!

It was only two days ago that he had been told about his aunt and uncle, who apparently did not know of him. It was a surprise!

His dad ushered him into the building and towards the stairs, they quickly learned he couldn't stand elevators and walked with him. When they were inside papa poked his head out, the rest of the tenants were used to it, for some odd reason. It was only 2 floors up, the hallway looked like a fancy hotel, he still ignored the fancy hotel from Germany, thankfully it looked nothing like this.

Peter hid behind his dad and papa while they knocked, no matter how excited he was, he's still scared. And yes he's scared at the grown age of 20. Life's scary man. :/

The door opened and a blonde woman rushed out. She grabbed his dads squealing in a tight hug. 

Eddie! Venom! I haven't seen you in weeks! And now you have a surprise?!” She released them only a bit, drawing back to about an arms length, hands still on their shoulders. A man with darker hair stood close by her, smiling softly and offering a warm greeting. 

Peter was still miraculously hidden behind his dads, papa seemed to be helping by forming fully only leaving a small string connecting him and dad. Before the couple could wave them inside they stepped apart. Revealing a shrinking in on himself Peter. 

Peter smiled sheepishly and waved, subconsciously straightening himself out a little.

“Anne, Dan, this is our son Peter, we adopted him a few days ago but have been housing him for a few months. Peter, this is your aunt Anne and uncle Dan!” Dad smiled as he gestured to the blonde woman and dark haired man. 

Peter barely had time to start shrinking back in on himself when he was being enveloped by two pairs of arms. He felt long, slender, manicured nails raked through his hair as the man, uncle Dan, pulled away. He was pulled closer to his now aunt. 

He vaguely saw their house, still clutched to her chest. He felt the rumble of her throat as she asked hundreds of questions to his dads. 

“I knew you were talking about adopting but why didn’t you tell us already! How old is he? What's his name? Omg tell. Me. Everything.” She barely got a breath in. 

When they finally could talk they answered all her questions, by just telling them the story. They asked before they left if Anne and Dan could know about spider-man. He didn’t feel right saying no. 

He zeroed in on his food, ignoring the pitying looks. And they were only getting half the story! They changed the topic fairly quickly. He told them about school and they caught up with his parents. At home he slept better than he had in a long while. The ache of missing aunt May after meeting them slowly transformed into happy memories of burnt food and sunshine

Chapter Text

Tony woke up sore, very very sore. Specifically on his left side. He opened his eyes groggily to find a worried pepper in his face, she was leaning over him with his right hand clutched in her neatly manicured hands. Morgan was asleep on her lap, face tucked into her chest.

He smiled at her and tried to speak, instead he promptly started coughing. A cup was pressed to his lips as he took small sips, allowing his chalky throat to clear. When he was finally able to he said the first words in what was probably a long time to his wife.

“Hey pep.” he smiled softly.

“Hey.” she said back, tears brimming in her eyes.

They sat and stared at each other, taking in the fact both are more or less ok. Friday took the liberty of informing Dr.Chen he was awake. She burst into the room not long after. 

“Oh my god Tony!” She said breathlessly, she was wearing half of her doctor's coat over her pajamas, her eye bags dark and hair a mess. Once she saw with her eyes Tony wasn't actively dying anymore, she corrected herself a bit, clearing her throat and grabbing her clipboard, she started rattling off what was written down.

“You sustained heavy injuries, your heart stopped for a moment, and you lost your left arm, multiple broken bones and ribs that have healed now, and you have been in a coma for the last two years.” She spoke like she was talking about the weather and not that he could have almost not survived. He held his breath, hand reaching to smooth Morgan's hair as she slept on Peppers lap till it was over.

Tony settled deeper into the hospital bed with Morgan tucked into his good side, fingers carding through her hair. Dr. Chen left a while ago, and so did Pepper to get some good rest with the knowledge Tony was ok. But there was one problem. Peter was missing from his sick bed. He expected the kid to be asleep on Pep’s shoulder and Tony could've made fun of him as Peter apologised for something inevitable. 

He invented time travel for his kid to come back only for him to not even care about Tony, Tony snapped Thanos away for Peter, Morgan, and Pepper. So they could all be happy. And they were, especially now that he was awake, but now he's missing a child. Where was Peter? Was he busy? Did he get into MIT? Is he still spider-man?

Those were the thoughts that plagued his dreams till morning. Peter still wasn't there. Maybe in all the haste of him waking up and calling Rhodey and the Avengers he was forgotten? That's impossible though, they all loved him, maybe he was just busy being what? 20 now? 

____________

A few days or more accurately, weeks later they threw a welcome home party.  After Thanos the rogue Avengers were pardoned by the Government, not that that was what the world was focused on. Also Peter learned that the accords were forgotten, someone high enough finally realised they were stupid. Now here they all are, in the rebuilt compound chatting with each other, eating, and drinking. 

They were still missing Peter though. 

Shuri came with T’Challa, and they were usually in the lab by now or plotting in a corner, she didn't even ask about him. Morgan was raiding the buffet table. Alone. And even the guardians were there. Rocket stopped asking for Bucky's arm and was now asking for Tony's newly built Wakandan arm. Maybe the kid was busy, starting college was hard, he just wished he would have at least texted. 

The next morning Tony sat around the communal kitchen as people milled about. Steve was cooking breakfast and Pepper was dropping Morgan off at school. Tony was lazily drinking coffee when he felt a kiss to his cheek and a presence next to him. 

“Hey honey,” he sighed, leaning into her warmth for a moment. “Oh right I was meaning to ask, where's Peter?” he asked, looking at his wife, tilting his head to the side a bit. Everyone who was milling about stopped. 

“…he was here last night?” Sam said, looking at him questioningly. 

“What are you talking about? Only Peter Quill was there?” He said confused. Did they seriously forget about him during his coma? That gained everyone's gaze, he wasn't talking about Quill.

The day went on like normal, but with some odd questions. Tony asked everyone about Peter and only gained odd looks. He even asked Happy about May but he just started crying and left the room. Even Friday didn't remember him, and Karen was disconnected somehow, a piece of code broken that wouldn't fix, she had forgotten her memory of who she was built to help. Peter existed, only on paper, but anything to do with Tony was severed, anything to do with almost everyone was severed. His internship was nowhere in sight bjt he still had a diploma from midtown tech. 

He had Friday look through every camera in the city till he found every trace of his son. There were odd glitches for most of it until a year and a half ago, he watched every second of his son, battered and bruised, get up again. It all clicked when it showed spider man falling into a trashcan. He continued watching as a weird black creature pulled his son into their house. A few days later Peter was seen going to school again.

At that place that wasn't MIT.

Watching longer he found the address his kid had been staying at, the owner was a name he wouldn’t soon forget. 

Eddie Brock. 

Why did this man have his son!

But most importantly why doesn't anyone seem to know who he was?

Tony printed a recent picture of his kid and went around asking everyone if they knew who he was. When Tony reached Happy he looked at the picture for a lot longer than necessary.

“So have you seen him?” Tony asked impatiently, he had other people to go find. 

“Yeah.. I've talked to him, he was spending a lot of time at May’s grave, and said he was helped by her after the blip.. In the shelter.” Tony just stared at Happy like he was crazy.

“May died??” he asked incredulously, then followed up. “And obviously he was at her grave, he's her nephew! Don't tell me you believed his bull shit excuse.” Tony rolled his eyes. “I know he looks different but not that different.” Tony stormed off to ask a few other people and went back to the Lab to do more research, ignoring the confused and concerned looks people were sending him.

Chapter Text

“Breaking news” was flashing on the screen of the TV, it was replacing the star wars rerun he had been playing as he ate breakfast. His dads had left for work not too long ago and he had a class in an hour or two. J. Jonah Jameson was on the screen now, the bugle logo behind him, the bar at the bottom read Stark Industries press conference.

“Stark Industries has an emergency press conference about a delicate matter, no one knows what it is yet but CEO Pepper Pots will be hosting it, for the first time in 2 years. It must be of utmost importance if she is coming out.” He said in his usual dramatic flair, he had to have been a theater kid.

The screen spanned to a camera at the conference where hundreds of reporters were breathing down each other's necks, looking close enough Peter saw his dad in the crowd. He had a Photographer from the Bugle, Harry if Peter could remember properly, he came to dinner a few times. His dad had a notepad and pen. The screen turned to the stage as Pepper Potts-Stark walked onto the stage. Peter's breath hitched, it had been so long since he’d seen her, not since the funeral. Not for lack of her trying just from lack of him trying.

“Stark Industries would like to formally apologize now,” she started, her face didn't even have the breath of a smile anywhere near it. Her eyes were hard as she swept them across the crowd. “We have lied and deceived you, but it was out of the privacy and safety of the Stark family.” the crowd rippled in murmurs at her abstract words, one question going through them all. 

What is she talking about?

“Tony Stark has been in a coma, not dead, we didn't think he would wake up ever again and to allow my family to be safe we released that he died. He has woken up a few weeks ago and is regaining his strength. Wakanda has provided a Metal arm to replace the one lost from the snap. It may be a few more weeks till Tony has any press again. Please respect my family and Tony.” She went on to answer a few questions and make a statement on things Stark Industries was releasing.

Peter heard none of it. 

Tony was alive.

His dad came home a few hours later and Peter hadn't moved, tears ran down his cheeks as he stared at the star wars movie credits that were put back after the broadcast. All he could think about was Tony. he was alive. But he heard his heart stop, he went to the funeral. Pepper hadn't told him.

Happy hadn't told him.

No one told him.

They all lied to him!

Strong and warm arms wrapped around him, fingers carding through his hair. He was now leaning on a solid chest with the irregular heart beat only someone who possesses a symbiote could have. His dad was comforting him, it had been happening a lot lately. But maybe that wasn't so bad.

He fell asleep on his dads chest with sticky arms wrapped around him and warm ones carding through his hair. They don't know why he was so upset but they did all they could to help, it was nice.

Chapter Text

The next few days were a blur. He knew he was worrying his dads and hated it but he couldn't help it. His mentor and father figure was still alive and no one told him, Mysterio ruined his life for no reason. He felt empty.

They saw his new aunt and uncle a lot more, having dinner once a week. They were confused, but so were his parents, maybe he should finally tell them like he promised himself he would. 

…

The problem was all they knew was he’s spider-man and who he lost, the news has covered some of it, mostly by JJJ, but not all of it. They knew nothing of mysterio.

It was another dinner at his aunt and uncle's apartment, Peter was picking at his food as the adults sent him worried glances every now and then. Setting down his fork Peter looked up, they were all staring at him already, maybe expecting an outburst. Instead he just calmly talked, explaining everything. Tears were streaming down his face by the time it was finally over, but at least they knew. At least they understood. 

Four pairs of arms were holding him, and it was nice, he should be more open with his family.

“The vulture dropped a building on you!?”

….

On second thought maybe he shouldn't have.

The next morning the heading on every newspaper in the country was about the vulture being found headless in his cell.

Yeah definitely shouldn't have..

Oh well!

Peter skipped his way down to class, never really happy, but he could pretend! Besides, he was as close to happy as he’d been in a long time. 

Only one thing could sour his mood, and it was the reminder of where he was headed…

Chapter Text

✨A few days ago✨

Peter was sitting in the lab of his chemistry class. It wasn't as difficult as he would've liked, but being mentored by Tony Stark will do that to a person. He was working on a project, the only parameters were it had to be sustainable. (he has since finished and turned this project in.) his teacher, who was sitting at the front scrolling his phone pulled something up.

“Ok class, before you get too far into the zone, I have an announcement.” he displayed a powerpoint on the board. 

Field trip opportunity!

Peter groaned, as did the rest of the class. They now had to pay for something else as broke college kids. 

“Hey now, I understand it's not as cool in college, but it's fully paid for by the school!” That seemed to get people excited. 

Flipping the slide his teacher kept talking, “we are going to a lecture at MIT, THE tony stark will be doing a presentation about what he does,(also his first public presence since he came back!) and has invited all the science majors in the state, all expenses paid of course.” His teacher (also the drama teacher) ended in an excited flurry, with jazz hands. Now that got people talking.

✨Present✨

All he had today was chemistry, and they were immediately leaving for the lecture. Peter tightened his hold on his bag, walking up to the shuttle they prepared. At least it wasn't a yellow bus. 

Maybe Peter would be better in a yellow bus, with flash yelling insults and throwing things, but he’d have his best friends next to him. That was a better time. They had arrived when Peter was shaken out of his thoughts, his memories of the past. He understood the song stressed out by twenty one pilots..

Oh look at the building!

The building he was supposed to go to school at..

But look at the architecture!

You are not an architecture major dawg…

Look MJ!

Oh…

About to enter the lecture hall were Ned and MJ, and Peter's class was following behind them. Slinking further to the back Peter followed as everyone went to sit close to the front. One problem with that, he wanted to be in the far back!

Peter sat there for the next hour as people trickled in, staring at the overhead lights. The front of the hall was blinding, even more so when the lights went off. Then walking on Tony, Peter had to actively hold his breath, thankfully people were too distracted to notice him turning blue.

He had to use a lot more brain power to actually listen and contain the information Tony was talking about. The new Wakandan metal arm glinting. He kinda looked like Bucky, wonder how he’s doing? 

When it was finally over they allowed people to get autographs and ask questions, the line to see Tony was insanity full. Opting to not cry in public he had a few nice chats about science with some of the other people there, all MIT professors or students. One of the MIT professors was married to someone on the board and offered to put in a good word for him if he wanted to continue his studies here instead.  

He felt a tap on his shoulder as he debated whether to accept. 

Tony Stark tapped his shoulder.

“Hey, I didn't mean to eavesdrop but I heard your conversation about clean energy and wanted to hear more!” Peter searched the man's eyes for a long moment, not noticing the sadness of wanting to see Peter again, opting it as unfamiliarity, so the spell worked on him too. 

Before Peter could respond his class started leaving, along with everyone else.

Saved by the bell!

Rushing an apology Peter slipped out of the hall and back onto the bus. 

Right back home!

Chapter Text

Well crap.

Tony watched as Peter slipped away from him.

Peter was thin, fed, but thin, and hadn't been going out as Spider-man as much anymore, Tony watched the news.

So that was a bust, cursing to himself he smiled friendly at people and waved, slipping into Happy's car he sighed heavily, tossing his sunglasses into the seat beside him. 

Happy asked if he was ok, but quickly shut up and drove with a wave. Tony wouldn’t be ok unless he had his son at home and talking to him. Sometime during the drive Happy started talking about how he saw the kid that was hanging around May’s grave and Tony tuned him out when he started talking about how the kid could have a better life instead of crying in front of a random grave who he barely knew.

Peter!

Tony looked out the window, completely ignoring Happy now as Peter strategically moved through people, weaving his way home. They just passed ESU, so that's why Peter had to leave, he wasn’t going to MIT… thats right. 

The car went in the same direction as Peter for the next 2 blocks when Peter turned into an apartment building. The building he lives in with Eddie Brock. The reporter. 

Scowling Tony sunk back in his seat, Happy just looked confused. 

“Why are you scowling at the fact my mom survived her surgery?” Happy asked. 

Tony just huffed and mumbled about a kid he met. 

Okayyyyy…

Happy, for once, happily drove away, he did not want to be near the brooding teenager that was a mid 40s Tony Stark.  

Tony went straight to his lab (after saying hello to Morgan and Pepper, giving both of them a kiss and a promise to put Morgan to bed.)

Concocting a devious plan only took an hour (the longest part was getting it approved.)

Now sitting on the desk in front of him was something Peter couldn’t get out of. 

Another field trip!

Teachers from ESU (and other schools because he’s not cruel) would pick their best and brightest students, the robotics, engineering, and science majors. They would then compete in a competition with a secret prize. 

Aka The field trip, where his son would have no choice but to talk with him!

Pepper walked into Tony's lab, it was dinner time and she was wondering why he was getting some competition approved. Only to find him laughing maniacally. He needed to sleep more. 

Tony looked out the window, when did it start raining? 

Pepper forced him to dinner, read Morgan a bedtime story and to go to bed, with the use of multiple melatonin’s.

Chapter Text

“Ok so, let me get this straight. You think everyone's forgotten Spider-man, our son apparently, while you were in a coma?” Pepper asked as she stared at her husband. They were laying in their bed, Pepper was reading a book as Tony did some work on his Stark Pad.

“Everyones forgotten his identity, not Spiderman himself, it's like he doesn't exist much outside of the mask until about two years ago, but yes.” he smiled at her widely.

“Fine, you can do your competition.” Tony kissed her cheek, already working out details in his head. He was just glad his wife was used to him and his craziness. But there was something he needed to discuss with Strange, this type of thing had his green magic allll over it.

________

Peter woke up with a start.

Checking his phone it was about 11pm, he fell asleep early after a quick patrol, which partook after a hearty dinner. 

Something just felt… off. Like someone was planning something. Something nefarious

Peter really needed to clear his nerves.

….you know.. He doesn't have a class tomorrow.

Checking his dads were asleep, Dad was snoring in his bedroom, that was a sign Papa was asleep too. Pulling his suit on he climbed out his window quietly, crawling along the wall he found a small note. 

Be safe.

-Papa

 It was in curly cursive, which Papa somehow learned to do nicely as a symbiote. Scribbling a little heart he was up on the roof in an instant. Swinging his heart out. 

He heard a scream just a little too close to Hell's Kitchen for his liking, but no one ever knows if the Devils out anymore, besides it was still in his territory.. ish.

__________

The woman being robbed definitely did NOT live in his territory. Here Peter was, walking a terrified woman clutching his arm home. Where she lived. In the middle of Hell’s Kitchen.

Once she safely locked her apartment door Peter moved, scrambling to the roof of the building. He was about to jump off and swing when someone cleared their throat. 

Peter definitely did not scream, whatttt pshhh he’s Spider-man, he doesn't even know howwww.

“You sound like a little girl” ok no need to clock him mysterious stranger…

And ohhhh that's the Devil of Hell's Kitchen, standing in front of Peter, as Spider-man. Who was just in his territory…..

…..

Kill him.

“Since the girl made it home, and neither of us are busy, let's chat.” Daredevil spoke with an air of familiarity, and also finality. Peter plopped his little spider butt right on the edge of the building. Sighing in relief when the older vigilante sat next to him. 

“Soooo.. What is it Mr. Daredevil sir?” Peter asked, kicking his feet as they dangled over the building. The older vigilante just sighed.

“I know who you are.” Peter swiveled his head around so fast he almost gave himself whiplash.

“You what?!” He almost yelled but remembered there were people sleeping under him. Still doesn't mean he didn't whisper yell though. “Prove it. What's my name, devil man.” Peter glared at him (His mask squinted).

“Peter Parker, you work for the bugle and give them pictures of yourself so they can shame you for whatever reason, you go to ESU and recently moved out of the dorms, your little spell didn't work on me.” Daredevil said never facing Peter during his whole spiel. 

Peter gaped before asking, “wait.. Why didnt it work on you?? Also why dont you like.. Hate me right now??????” Peter continued staring and jumped a little when Daredevil turned to face him. 

“I don't know why it didn't work on me, probably something to do with my condition.” Before Peter could ask about the condition Daredevil got up and walked to the dark side of the building room, only the reflection on his helmet was seen. “I’m a really good lawyer.” Peter gaped but when he blinked he was gone, no sound of footfalls and no heartbeat… just gone. Next to him sat a note. 

xxx-xxx-xxxx

Text me - DD

_________

Peter was back home, safe in his little room, in his little apartment, his dads snoring up a storm in their room. Peter however was pacing the room, the floor, the walls, the ceiling. 

He had the sticky note clutched in his hand, in the other his phone. 

His phone still worked and kept all his contacts, the spell just deleted him off other peoples phones he hadn't texted anyone though, just kept their contacts like everything was ok. But now the only contact that was staring him in the face was his lawyer. The lawyer who believed in him and defended him… Matt Murdock..

Should I text??