Tony
Tony stands in front of the bathroom door. He debates knocking. He considers barging in the room. In the end, he doesn’t have to do anything.
“You know I can hear you, right?”
Peter’s voice is slightly muffled behind the door. Even without seeing his face, Tony can tell his is frustrated. He opens the door then and doesn’t expect to see the sight before him.
Peter is decked out in his Spider-Man suit but has a black tux overtop. Tony had bought the set for Peter when he mentioned not having one offhandedly. Tony made sure to remove any price tags before gifting it. He knew that Peter would feel bad if he saw how much the tux cost, though Tony didn’t blink an eye when purchasing.
Today is the day. The New York police department is hosting a televised memorial service for the lives that were lost during last month’s battle. It’s frustrating because there have been no leads on how it happened or who was running the operations. Tony has spent endless nights hacking into systems to find nothing.
But for today, none of it matters. The Avengers have been personally invited by the New York mayor to attend this memorial. It will start with a pre-event and the Avengers will then have front row seats for the memorial. They are going to be acknowledged at some point during the service. Tony finds the concept inappropriate, it distracts from the loss of innocent lives. Still, it would be distasteful to not attend.
The team was both shocked and not surprised in the slightest when the mayor specifically requested Spider-Man’s presence. Peter is still not an official Avenger, which protects him from the PR nightmares or meetings that Tony finds himself wrapped up in. If it were up to Tony, the kid would never have to get involved.
Steve had mentioned the invitation to Peter before Tony had time to think on it. He almost punched Steve in the face when he first heard the news. Tensions are always high with the two of them, but even more so after the battle.
Steve allowed Peter to leave. He let him out of his sight knowing he was hurt and in no shape to fight alone.
Their screaming match was so loud that the team had to physically separate them. Tony didn’t hold back his wrath when it first happened. Steve defended himself with nonsense that never matters when it comes to Peter’s safety. The memory still makes him fume.
He forces the thought away before it riles him up all over again. Tony looks at Peter now and his horrendous attempt at fixing his tie. It brings him back to the present, and he can’t help but laugh.
Tony can tell that Peter is blushing even with the mask on.
“Hey, not cool!”
The comment only makes Tony laugh more, “let me save you. You look ridiculous.”
“Well, May usually helps me with the tie…” Peter explains while Tony gets to work. He makes sure the tie is not too tight around Peter’s neck and straightens it properly. Once he’s pleased, he pats Peter on the shoulder.
“You know you don’t have to wear the tux- You could easily get away with showing up in the Spider-Man suit. No one would say a thing.”
And if they did, Tony would make sure they regret it.
But Peter only shrugs, “it feels wrong not to wear something.”
Tony only notices it then. There is a slight tremble in Peter’s voice that happens when he is holding back tears. Tony leans forward and slips Peter’s mask off without a second thought.
And just as he suspected, Peter’s eyes are red rimmed. He gasps, trying to grab his mask as Tony holds it back.
“Mister Stark-”
“What’s wrong kiddo?”
Tony asks more out of courtesy than anything else. He knows exactly why Peter is troubled. The kid wears his heart on his sleeve, and there is no one as caring as Peter Parker.
Today is going to be a hard day for everyone. They will see the names of each life lost and the faces of their loved ones who now mourn.
Even Tony is struggling to prepare, so he doesn’t think Peter should have to deal with this head on. It’s why Tony wanted to talk to him about it beforehand. Steve ruined his plan before Tony could figure out how to approach the discussion. Of course Peter was going to say yes without considering his own needs, especially when the event was presented at face value.
The Avengers are practically expected to surround themselves with death. They protect who they can and bear the losses of those they inevitably could not save. Yet Peter is not an Avenger - he shouldn’t have to come to terms with how cruel the world is quite yet. In fact, he shouldn’t have been fighting in the battle to begin with. There were too many robots to allow for another option.
Tony’s thoughts prove themself when Peter sighs, “I’m a little nervous about today.”
It seems like an understatement, though Tony doesn’t comment on it. Instead, he wordlessly pulls Peter into a hug. It hurts a little bit when Peter seems surprised at first.
Still, he doesn’t let go. He waits until Peter sinks into the embrace before speaking again, rubbing his back in a way that he hopes is comforting.
“I’ll be by your side the entire time.”
Peter pulls back so he can look at Tony more closely.
“Really?”
“What do you mean really? Of course I’ll be with you, we’re a team. And plus, someone has to look out for me too. Who knows where I might run off to if I find the opportunity.”
Tony is relieved when Peter smiles, “be careful, I might just run out with you.”
Both of them know they won’t do it. Today is too important. Still, Tony grins as he pulls Peter closer.
“And that’s why we’re a team.”
- - -
The pre-event has a million cameras. It is the most ridiculous spectacle that Tony has ever seen. The only benefit is that all proceeds will be invested into New York. The purpose is to honor the victims while earning funds to rehabilitate the city. Stark Industries has already donated a million dollars when the foundation was first announced.
While there are good intentions, the memorial feels more like a celebrity outing. There’s news reporters stationed in every corner and a livestream that shows all the notable figures who have arrived to support the cause. Stars, political candidates, and influencers currently speak to reporters, sharing their experiences from the battle and wishing condolences to those who were affected.
This was not advertised when the mayor first invited the Avengers. Tony feels his blood boiling when he glances over to Peter, who presses himself against the car door like he is about to actually make a run for it.
Tony tries to calm his expression, though even Happy looks concerned for the kid. They meet eyes through the front view mirror, and Tony is the first to try and tackle the situation.
“We can keep driving. They would never know we were here.”
Peter shakes his head, “we both know that’s not an option.”
Tony bites his lip, regretting every decision that has brought them to this point. Peter hasn’t been trained for anything like this.
He puts on his sunglasses, preparing for the cameras. Tony then looks at Peter and offers a reassuring smile.
“Hey, it’s just like I said before. You’re with me so you won’t have to answer questions- I’ll handle it for the both of us. You’re masked too, so really all you have to do is stand there. What could possibly go wrong?”
“I could trip, break my nose, take off my mask and reveal my identity to the world.”
Tony takes his glasses off and raises an eyebrow.
“Seriously? Use that stickiness of yours and you’ll be fine.”
When Peter takes a shaky breath, Tony leans forward. He wishes he could see Peter without the mask on. He forces eye contact anyway.
“I’m on your team, remember?”
Tony stays close, waiting for Peter to respond.
“And I’m on yours.”
“Good. That means you don’t have to worry about a thing. You won’t fall because you have me at every step of the way.”
It takes three beats for Peter to respond. His shoulders are tense and he still seems petrified, though his voice is slightly less strained. Tony considers it a win.
“Thanks Mister Stark.”
As they exit the car, Tony already has his persona on full display. He tries to fill as much space as possible for Peter’s sake, who trails behind him like a lost puppy. The Avengers planned their arrival at the same time, working to advertise a sense of unity after everything that has happened. It’s the only reason Tony intentionally stands next to Steve for some photos.
Just as Tony promised, Peter does not have to say a word during interviews. He takes charge, answering for the both of them and giving cues for Peter to nod his head when appropriate.
When they finally get to the venue, it is filled with cocktails and food. Tony catches Bruce and Natasha already talking in the corner of the room. A few waiters try to deliver Peter a drink which he politely declines. Sam then gets a kick out of personally offering a beer to the kid, all while Clint bursts into laughter seeing after Spider-Man in a tux.
When the grieving families join the event, the room becomes colder. It is easy to see those who are there for support versus those who are truly mourning. The team doesn’t exchange any jokes after that.
Tong makes sure that he sticks by Peter’s side. Meanwhile, Rhodey makes it a point to talk to government officials, leaving the two of them alone as they stand next to a fireplace.
Peter leans over like he is telling a secret, “is it just me or is this not your average memorial?”
“Oh, this is a memorial on steroids. I think the actual service starts at 7.”
Peter nods, anxiously looking around the room. Tony watches the families that walk by. He sees how dull their eyes are or how some of their hands tremble. At the same time, he hears a group of public figures talk about the weather and how great the appetizers are. There’s a cognitive dissonance that is impossible to ignore, and Tony can tell that Peter feels the same way.
“We’ll leave as soon as the service is over. I’m certain the team will be close behind us.”
When Peter doesn’t respond, Tony turns to check on him. He stands both stiff and frozen, staring at something to his right. When Tony follows his gaze, he sees a man and little girl.
Tony tries to grab Peter’s attention. “Everything okay Spider-Man?”
No response. It doesn’t even sound like Peter is breathing.
The girl then makes eye contact with Peter, and her eyes flash in recognition. It’s not uncommon as Iron Man and Spider-Man are technically here as celebrities. Still, she rushes over to the fireplace and grips onto Peter’s leg. The girl is sobbing into his tux, her words are barely comprehensible.
“Spidey! I thought I would never see you again.”
Tony pats Peter on the back when he still doesn’t move, silently urging him to say anything.
The man then rushes their way, grabbing the little girl and saving Peter’s leg from being clawed.
“I am so sorry about that, Annie was actually hoping you would be here so she could thank you.”
The man looks in Tony’s direction and offers a polite nod. Then, he turns to Spider-Man with his own tears.
“You saved her life.”
A part of Tony bursts with pride, though there is clearly something that is wrong. Peter finally finds it within himself to speak.
“And the mother? Is she okay?”
The somberness of Peter’s voice tells Tony that he already knows the answer. The man is openly crying when he responds.
“The head injury was fatal, though Annie told me all about how Spider-Man found her on the streets. I will never be able to repay you for taking care of my baby girl. I could have lost them both that day.”
When Peter only stares, Tony tries to reply for the both of them. He doesn’t know the full story, though his heart breaks all the same.
“It is nothing you need to pay for. It’s what Spider-Man does, he is a true hero.”
The man offers a wet smile to them both, “and may God always bless you for that.”
And just like that, they are gone. The man stumbles away as he works to collect himself. Tony wastes no time as he moves to Peter’s line of vision.
“You’re okay.”
Peter lets out a shallow gasp, shaking his head.
“She was still breathing when I took her to the hospital.”
“You did everything you could.”
And of course, that is when the auditorium doors open for the memorial service. There is so much more that Tony wants to say, though he knows this is not the time nor place. He compensates by holding onto Peter’s arm to keep him steady. Peter leans into the touch.
People start piling in, and Tony can see that the room is decorated more like a traditional memorial service. There is a stage with flowers and a digital display that lists the names of those who had passed. The Avengers have special seats in the front row while all public figures sit behind. Meanwhile the families have spots reserved on the other side. All chairs face the front where the mayor stands ready.
The room is silent while everyone takes their seats. The space alone is a reminder of what they are all here for. A celebrity sings the Star-Spangled Banner and the mayor begins with opening remarks.
There are plenty of guest speakers from the armed forces, police department, fire station, and more. Each presentation is rehearsed with ease and has digital displays to go with it. The theme is one of hope, uplifting the New York people in a time of tragedy.
Eventually, the Avengers are ready to be honored. They call each team member by their superhero name as they walk to the stage. Each of them are offered a bouquet of flowers and a medallion. It’s an odd gesture given the circumstances, though Tony feigns gratitude.
In reality, Tony thinks that this is the most ridiculous memorial service he has ever seen. It’s performative, shallow, and does nothing to solve the looming threat that haunts the city. He is almost tempted to take the microphone and say just this. Instead, he silently walks back to his seat and bites down his temper. He thinks that Pepper would be proud.
When he turns to his side, he sees that Peter did not follow. He’s only confused for a moment until he looks up at the stage.
Peter is still there, eagerly trying to walk down the steps and away from the limelight. Two officers block his way, smiling with care as they gesture him to wait.
Oh no.
Tony already knows what is about to happen. He glances at Rhodey and sees the same expression of horror on his face. The mayor then points to Spider-Man triumphantly.
“We are grateful for all of the Avengers and their efforts in protecting this city. Although, there is one hero that we want to specially acknowledge. After all, he is our very own!”
The crowd claps their hands as Peter bounces on his toes. Even in his suit, Tony can see the anxiety radiating off of him. He wonders if Peter will actually trip and fall. Or worse, there is a chance he might have a panic attack. He would not put it past Peter to faint on stage.
For once in his life, Tony doesn’t know what to do. They’ve been separated in the worst way possible. He had broken his promise to Peter.
Still, he forces himself to relax. Peter can’t see Tony freaking out when he is already startled.
With that thought in mind, Tony keeps his eyes trained on Spider-Man. He begs at Peter to look his way, though the kid’s eyes frantically dart around the room as the mayor continues speaking.
“Spider-Man has dedicated countless hours to cleaning our neighborhoods. His generosity to this city has helped us make great strides as we continue to rebuild ourselves.”
The display shows many photos of Spider-Man, moving debris off the roads and holding up literal buildings. The Avengers have been stuck in meetings, working to find who was responsible for the attack. Meanwhile, Peter has been out on the streets each and every day. He’s making a true difference, and Tony can feel the pure pride that swells in his chest.
Throughout the speech, Peter fidgets with his hands and pulls at his tie like it is choking him. He is a catastrophe on stage, though the mayor pays no mind to this.
“We cannot thank him enough for his efforts. And with that, I would like to raise a toast to our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!”
The crowd applauds while Peter stands like a statue. Finally, he makes eye contact with Tony. His shoulders are stiff and his breaths are too short. Tony hates that he can’t be up there with him.
He does the next best thing he can think of. Tony moves from his chair, giving Peter a standing ovation. As always, Rhodey is quickly by his side and offers a wolf whistle for the kid.
Tony can hear people standing from their own seats, clapping with vigor. He doesn’t look behind him because he refuses to break eye contact.
Tony pauses in his cheering to place a palm on his chest. He pats at it twice and makes an overdramatic show of taking a deep breath.
I’m right here buddy. Breathe.
Peter seems to catch on, and Tony watches closely as he finally inhales. His chest deflates comically as he exhales out. It’s still shaky, but it’s a good start.
The mayor continues speaking until he turns to Spider-Man directly. Someone provides him a literal trophy in which Peter awkwardly accepts. It’s admittedly strange having the general public react so positively towards superheroes. It was never like this before, though Tony suspects that Peter’s involvement has a direct impact on the change of heart.
After that, the mayor invites Spider-Man to share a few words. Tony’s heart drops, and he thinks that Peter almost falls to his knees in fear.
Still, Tony forces himself to appear calm - the kid needs him. He offers a small, slow nod when Peter looks over. It’s only then when Peter walks forward and leans toward the microphone.
“Uh, thank you,” he says too closely to the mic, causing a terrible ringing noise to disrupt the speakers. Guests use their hands to cover their ears while Tony stays put. He gestures at Peter to move backwards. The kid nods and robotically takes a step away. Now he is a little too far from the stand, yet Tony doesn’t fret over it.
Peter clears his throat before speaking, though it doesn’t stop his voice from trembling. Tony offers a thumbs up when Peter finally begins.
“Grief is a funny thing… it never really goes away no matter how much time passes. It shapes you in ways that you didn’t know was possible until they’re gone and you’re left with nothing but their memory.”
Tony knows that there are cameras everywhere, so he tries to keep his expression neutral. The start of Peter’s speech is not very hopeful to the families. It doesn’t even acknowledge anything that the mayor had addressed. He hears a few guests choke back cries as Peter continues.
“There really isn’t anything I can do to make this better. I would say I’m sorry but even that feels meaningless.”
Tony holds his breath, trying not to scream.
Then, Peter takes another desperate glance at Tony. When Tony smiles in support, Peter finally exhales. It’s almost as if he had been asking for permission as he turns to the families.
“It’s not much- it’s actually nothing, but I vow to keep these losses in my own memory. They will live in every decision I make, every person I help so long as I have the power to do so... A loved one once told me that this is what gives life meaning. And I- I hope you find meaning too. Even through grief.”
There is a moment of silence as everyone digests the message. Then, the crowd loudly applauds as Peter tilts his head to the side. Tony can tell that the noise is hurting his ears. With the realization, he claps as quietly as he can. Tony grins wide when Peter checks back in for approval.
Peter is practically running off the stage before the mayor takes his hand, raising it to the ceiling.
“Let’s hear it for the amazing Spider-Man!”
Peter shakes their head while they cheer. His body has not stopped fidgeting since he has gotten on the stage. It is why Tony is able to catch it so quickly when Peter freezes altogether.
His shoulders are raised again, though it is no longer from stage fright. Now, Peter scans the room more intentionally. Tony knows that stance even while Peter’s face is covered. He is sensing that something is wrong.
Tony stands on his feet absentmindedly. He takes a step forward to Peter who is no longer looking for him.
The kid needs off that stage.
But Peter beats Tony to the punch. Suddenly, he jumps towards the microphone and shouts with a level of authority that did not exist a minute before.
“Everybody get down.”
His voice commands the attention of all. People follow the order through their confusion while Peter moves swiftly. He tackles the mayor and simultaneously aims a web to the top of the ceiling.
A laser shoots above them as the mayor and Peter hit the stage. Seconds later, a robot drops to the floor and malfunctions from the web fluid. Chaos erupts, and people are already running out of the auditorium.
Tony looks up to see where the robot was hidden. It seems to have been stationed behind a wall, though he cannot figure out how that is possible.
The laser hits right through the digital display, causing a growing fire that burns the material. Firefighters are already working on getting it tamed, though the trajectory of the hit is clear as day.
The laser would have hit the mayor right through the head. He would be dead if Peter didn’t push him out of the way.
There is yelling everywhere, yet the world turns silent. Tony processes what this means. He thinks about how close the laser was to hitting Peter. He feels bile rise in his throat.
It’s only then that Spider-Man blocks his view, pulling at his hand.
“Come on, we have to go.”