"you gave our family a chance"
Natasha stared blankly at the TV screen, not really watching the news report playing in front of her. She was sunk deeply into the couch cushions, wrapped in an old wool blanket that still smelled faintly of Clint.
It had been two months since the Avengers fractured in that Siberian bunker. Two months since Steve had chosen Bucky over the rest of them. Two months since Tony had limped back to the compound, armor shattered and heart broken.
Things would never be the same again. Natasha kept waiting to wake up from this nightmare, to find herself back in Avengers Tower with the team whole once more. She wanted movie nights and meals around the big dining table. She wanted Sam's stupid jokes and Wanda's quiet kindness. She wanted Steve's steady leadership and Thor's booming laugh.
But the tower was cold and empty now. Tony had moved upstate to the new facility, but Natasha lingered behind, haunting the place like a ghost. She told herself she stayed to watch over Pepper, who was still struggling with the fallout of everything that had happened. But deep down, Natasha knew she was clinging to the past. This tower held every happy memory she'd managed to collect over the years. It was the only real home she'd ever known.
With a sigh, Natasha clicked off the TV and tossed the remote aside. Brooding wasn't going to change anything. She needed to figure out her next move. The world still needed the Avengers, whether they were together or not. There was still work to be done.
Grabbing her empty coffee mug, she hauled herself off the couch and shuffled to the kitchen. The whole floor was eerily quiet, the way it had been since the others cleared out their rooms and laboratories. Natasha couldn't remember the last time she'd heard another voice here besides Friday's.
She rinsed out her mug and was refilling it when Friday's cool tones sounded overhead. "Excuse me, Ms. Romanoff. Peter Parker is on his way up to see Mr. Stark. My protocols indicate Mr. Stark is still out of the tower. Would you like me to turn Mr. Parker away until Mr. Stark returns?"
Natasha frowned, wracking her brain for why Tony's new intern would be stopping by. "No, it's fine," she said after a moment. "I'll talk to him." The kid was probably just dropping something off for Tony. She could at least make small talk until he left.
Combing her fingers through her unwashed hair, Natasha took a fortifying sip of coffee. She was out of practice with strangers. Especially chatty, enthusiastic ones like Tony's latest protege apparently was. She missed the days when JARVIS would have simply turned the kid away without bothering her.
The elevator dinged as it arrived on the communal floor, and Natasha squared her shoulders. She glanced down at her ratty sweatpants and faded t-shirt emblazoned with the SHIELD logo. Oh well. Wasn't like she had anyone to impress.
The doors slid open and a teenage boy stepped out. He had a messy tumble of brown hair and a backpack slung over one shoulder. His eyes went wide as he took in Natasha's disheveled appearance.
"Oh, uh, hi," he stammered, hovering uncertainly by the elevator. "I was just, um, looking for Mr. Stark?"
"He's not here," Natasha said bluntly, taking another swig of coffee.
The kid's face fell. "Oh. Do you...do you know when he'll be back?"
Natasha suppressed a flare of irritation. "No idea."
"Oh. Okay." He shifted his weight from foot to foot. "I can come back later, I guess."
Natasha knew she should just let him leave. But the pathetic hangdog look on his face annoyed her for some reason. "What did you need him for?" she asked. "I can pass along a message when he gets back."
The boy immediately brightened. "I was just dropping off some designs I've been working on," he explained eagerly. "For Spider-Man's suit. I had some ideas to make the eyepieces more streamlined and improve visibility. Mr. Stark said he wanted to see them when I had a chance."
He swung his backpack around to dig through it. Natasha's mind snagged on his words.
"Suit designs for Spider-Man?" she repeated. She scrutinized the kid more closely. He didn't seem like someone who would be involved with a vigilante hero. Or who Tony would trust with sensitive information.
The boy froze. "Oh. Did I say Spider-Man?" He gave an unconvincing laugh. "Slip of the tongue. I meant designs for, uh...spiders."
Natasha raised an unimpressed eyebrow. The kid grimaced.
"Okay, yeah, I'm Spider-Man," he admitted. " Mr. Stark helps me with my suit sometimes. But it's top secret, so don't tell anyone!"
Natasha had to smother a snort. Clearly Tony hadn't chosen this kid for his deception skills. But she was intrigued enough now to want to find out more.
"I can keep a secret," she said, moving over to sit at the kitchen island. She gestured for him to join her. "Come on, I don't bite."
The boy approached cautiously and perched on the edge of a stool. He watched her warily, as if she might lunge at any second.
Natasha gave him a wry smile. "Relax, kid. I don't actually eat people." She stuck out her hand. "I'm Natasha."
The boy shook her hand, looking starstruck. "Wow...the Black Widow," he breathed.
Natasha felt that familiar pang. The Black Widow was no more, just another casualty of the civil war between Earth's heroes.
"Just Natasha is fine," she said, keeping her tone light. She took a drink of coffee. "So. You're Tony's new intern?"
"Oh! Yeah, I'm Peter," he said quickly. "Peter Parker. I started interning for Mr. Stark a few months ago. Mostly I just help out around the lab, but sometimes I work on the suits too." His expression turned worried. "Which you didn't hear from me. Seriously, please don't tell Mr. Stark I spilled the beans!"
Despite herself, Natasha smiled a little. The kid's panicked babbling was kind of endearing. "Don't worry, I'll keep your secret," she assured him. "So how does a high schooler get to be Tony Stark's intern, anyway?"
Peter launched eagerly into a story about applying for the position as part of a school program. Natasha listened with half an ear, studying him thoughtfully. He seemed bright and passionate about science and technology. She could understand why Tony had taken a shine to him. But she was willing to bet the official story wasn't the real one. Tony didn't choose proteges lightly.
"Well, sounds like you've made quite the impression on Tony," she remarked when Peter finally paused for breath. "He doesn't invite just anyone to work in his lab. You must be pretty special."
Pink tinged Peter's cheeks. "I don't know about special," he mumbled, looking pleased. "Just lucky, I guess."
Natasha hid a knowing smile behind her coffee mug. Definitely more to this story. But the kid probably had his reasons for secrecy. And she wasn't one to pry into someone else's past.
"Luck favors the prepared mind, as Tony would say," she pointed out. She nodded at Peter's backpack. "So show me these designs you've been working on. I don't know much about suits, but I can try to give feedback."
"Oh, yeah, sure!" Peter quickly pulled out his notebook and flipped it open, scooting his stool closer.
Natasha had to admit she was impressed by the intricate detail in the sketches and notes. Peter enthusiastically described each element—adjustable lenses, thermal regulation, impact absorption. It was clear he had put a lot of careful thought into improving the suit's capabilities.
"These are really incredible," she told him sincerely. "Tony's lucky to have you helping him with this stuff."
Peter rubbed the back of his neck, looking embarrassed but pleased. "Thanks," he said. "I like getting to put my ideas into practice, you know? To help people."
His voice was so earnest. Natasha felt an unexpected pinch in her chest. She and the Avengers had started out the same way—just trying to use their abilities to help. And look how spectacularly that had blown up in their faces.
"Yeah, I know the feeling," she said quietly, eyes distant. Then she shook herself. "Sorry, got lost in thought for a second. You were saying?"
Peter didn't seem to notice her change in demeanor. He launched eagerly back into an explanation of the suit's operational capabilities. Natasha did her best to focus on his rapid-fire science jargon. But despite herself, her thoughts kept drifting back to the team. To missions and inside jokes and movie nights that now seemed a lifetime away.
Peter finally wound down, snapping his notebook shut. "I should probably get going and let you get back to your day," he said apologetically. "Thanks for looking at the designs. I'll try Mr. Stark again later."
He started to slide off the stool, but Natasha stopped him with a touch on his arm. "You don't have to rush off," she found herself saying. "I was just sitting around anyway."
Peter looked surprised but pleased. He settled back on the stool. "Oh. Okay, cool."
An awkward beat passed. Natasha cast about for something neutral to discuss. "Are you hungry?" she asked suddenly. "I haven't eaten yet today. We could make some lunch."
"Sure, that sounds great!" Peter agreed brightly.
They relocated to the kitchen. Natasha dug through cabinets and the fridge, assembling sandwich ingredients—bread, deli meat, cheese. Peter perched on a stool at the island, watching her expectantly.
"So," Natasha ventured as she slathered mustard on bread. "How's school going? You're a junior, right?"
That was all the prompting Peter needed to start chattering about his classes, teachers, classmates and academic decathlon team. Natasha made occasional hums of acknowledgment as she continued constructing turkey sandwiches. There was something comforting about the mindless task, the domesticity of making a meal. She could almost imagine this was just a normal day, that she was just a normal woman making lunch for...well, not her son obviously. But it gave her a surreal rush of warmth nonetheless.
"What about you?" Peter asked, interrupting her reflections. "Did you go to school to become a super spy and stuff?"
Natasha tensed instinctively. Her past wasn't something she could sum up tidily, especially not for a kid. "Not exactly," she said carefully. "I didn't have a conventional childhood."
Peter's eyes softened with empathy. "Because you didn't have a family?"
Natasha focused very deliberately on slicing tomatoes. "You...could say that," she said at last. She didn't know how much Peter knew about her history. But he was clearly perceptive enough to realize she hadn't come from a stable, loving home.
"Well, hey." Peter gave her a lopsided smile. "You've got the Avengers now, right? So it's like you got to build your own family."
Natasha's knife stilled. She stared down at the tomato slices bleeding red juice onto the cutting board.
The Avengers weren't her family. Not anymore. Whatever bonds they'd forged had shattered beyond repair. She was completely, utterly alone.
Suddenly the domesticity of this scene felt suffocating. She was playing at being human, but she didn't deserve comfort or connection. She was a spy and an assassin. The things she had done—
"Natasha?" Peter's worried voice broke through her spiraling thoughts. "Did I say something wrong?"
"No." Natasha quickly scooped up the tomato slices and deposited them on the waiting bread. She forced a neutral expression. "It's nothing. You're right, the Avengers are...were my family."
Peter eyed her sympathetically. "I bet it's been hard since they split up," he said. "It kinda seemed like they were just starting to really feel like a team, you know? And now it's like, poof." He mimed an explosion with his hands.
Natasha's throat felt tight. She ducked her head, pretending to focus on perfectly aligning the sandwich layers.
"But families fight sometimes, right?" Peter went on bracingly. "Doesn't mean they stop being family. They just need some time to work stuff out."
A weak laugh escaped Natasha's lips. "I appreciate the sentiment, kid. But I don't think time is going to patch things up between Tony and Steve."
She pushed a sandwich across the counter to Peter before rounding to sit beside him, her own plate in hand. Peter took a big bite, chewing thoughtfully.
"Yeah, I guess it's pretty complicated," he acknowledged through his mouthful. He swallowed. "I'm sorry you're in the middle of it all."
Natasha shrugged, gaze fixed on her untouched sandwich. "It is what it is."
They ate in silence for a few minutes. Natasha's appetite had vanished, but she forced herself to mechanically chew and swallow.
Peter polished off his sandwich with the gusto of a teenage boy and got up to grab a couple of sodas from the fridge. He slid one over to Natasha before reclaiming his seat.
"Can I ask you something?" he said after a minute.
Natasha steeled herself. "Go ahead." There were any number of uncomfortable topics he could broach. But she supposed she owed him some honesty after the way she'd brushed him off earlier.
Peter fiddled with his soda can, looking thoughtful. "Why did you become an Avenger?"
Whatever Natasha had expected, it wasn't that. She blinked, thrown off balance. "What do you mean?"
"I just..." Peter drummed his fingers against the counter. "You were already a super awesome spy and assassin and stuff before the Avengers, right? So why join a team? Why risk your life for something bigger than yourself?"
He was watching her with genuine curiosity. Natasha realized suddenly that he really wanted to know her answer. That despite her standoffishness earlier, he was trying to understand her.
She considered the question, emotions swelling in her chest. "I guess...I was trying to wipe out some of the red in my ledger," she said at last. "To use my skills to do more good than harm in the world."
Peter nodded slowly. "Yeah. Yeah, that makes sense." He flashed her a smile. "Well, I think you've done a pretty awesome job. You've saved a lot of lives."
Natasha's eyes prickled dangerously. She ducked her head to hide her expression, pretending to be very interested in her soda can. "Thanks," she managed roughly.
They sat in surprisingly comfortable silence for a few minutes. Natasha's thoughts churned with emotions she usually kept locked down—longing and sorrow and bone-deep exhaustion. But strangely, it was almost a relief to feel them in the quiet companionship of this chatty, kind teenager.
Finally she sighed and ran a hand through her hair. "God, listen to me getting maudlin," she said wryly. "We're supposed to be having lunch, not wallowing."
Peter gave her a sympathetic half-smile. "I don't mind. Must be hard not having your team around to talk to anymore." He hesitated, then added, "Mr. Stark seems really lonely without them. I mean, he has me now, obviously." He puffed out his scrawny chest. "But I can tell he misses Captain America a lot."
Natasha's lips quirked. "Yeah. He's not the only one."
She studied the boy across from her with new appreciation. However he'd ended up in Tony's orbit, his presence was clearly a balm. And today, his kindness had been a balm to her as well. She'd accused Tony of recruiting a soft, naive kid. But sitting here now, she mostly felt endeared.
"For what it's worth, I think you're good for Tony," she told him. "He needs that—someone to balance out all his sarcasm and drama. An actual nice person." She smirked faintly. "Plus you can keep up with him technobabble-wise, which is a bonus."
Pink tinged Peter's cheeks again. "I just try to help however I can. Although, uh, don't tell Mr. Stark I called him dramatic," he added worriedly.
Natasha mimed zipping her lips, and Peter chuckled. The sound made warmth bloom unexpectedly in her chest.
God, maybe she was getting soft in her old age. But she suddenly wanted very much to protect this earnest, intelligent boy who cared so openly and saw the best in people. Who talked about saving lives like it was the most natural thing in the world. Whose presence made Tony Stark, one of the most damaged people she knew, feel a little less lonely.
"Can I tell you something, Peter?" she found herself saying seriously.
Peter looked surprised but nodded. "Yeah, of course."
Natasha turned her soda can in circles, gathering her thoughts. "Having a team again...it was good for me. Necessary, even. For a long time, I didn't let myself need anyone. I didn't think I deserved bonds or relationships or a family."
She looked up to meet Peter's eyes. "But people like you and Steve—idealists—you made me start to believe I could be part of something good. That I could put my past behind me and build those connections."
Her voice wavered despite her efforts. She dropped her gaze again. "Losing that now, having the team broken apart...it's like those foundations I was starting to build came crumbling down. I'm back to feeling like I deserve to be alone."
Silence settled over the kitchen. Natasha kept her eyes fixed on her can, embarrassed by her sudden openness. Peter was quiet for a long moment. Natasha kept her head ducked, embarrassed by her abrupt honesty. She never confessed weaknesses like that, least of all to near strangers. But something about this earnest boy had cracked through her defenses.
Finally, she risked a glance up. Peter's expression was soft with empathy.
"I'm really sorry you've had to go through all this," he said sincerely. "But, you know, I don't think you have to be alone. Family isn't just the people tied to you by blood. It's the people who love and support you, who'll be there when things get hard."
He offered her a tentative smile. "The Avengers still care about you a lot. And, well...." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking suddenly shy. "I know we just met, but I care about you too, Natasha. So if you ever need a friend to talk to or whatever...I'm here."
Natasha's throat went tight. God, this sweet kid was going to make her tear up if he kept this up.
"Thank you, Peter," she managed roughly. "I appreciate that more than you know."
Peter beamed, remnants of shyness fading. Impulsively, he slid off his stool and came around to wrap her in a hug. Natasha stiffened reflexively, every instinct screaming to push him away. But then she forced herself to relax and loosely return the embrace.
When was the last time someone had hugged her with such simple, freely offered affection? She couldn't even remember. But she had to admit it felt nice. Comforting in a way she desperately needed right now.
"We've got your back, мама паук," Peter mumbled into her hair.
Natasha huffed a surprised laugh at the nickname. "My Russian must be getting rusty," she remarked. "Did you just call me Mama Spider?"
"Oh!" Peter pulled back, looking sheepish. "Yeah, sorry, I thought it might be a cool Russian thing to call you, with the whole Black Widow spider theme. But I can just call you Natasha if you want."
Natasha's lips curved fondly. "No, it's fine. I like it." She ruffled his hair. "You're a sweet kid, Spider-boy."
Peter grinned, looking pleased. He returned to his own stool, and Natasha tried to discreetly wipe at her definitely not misty eyes. God, she was turning into such a softie. But she did feel lighter somehow, like a giant weight had lifted from her chest.
"Thank you for lunch and everything, really," Peter said, draining the last of his soda. "I should probably get out of your hair now."
"You're not in my hair," Natasha assured him. She offered a small, vulnerable smile. "I like talking with you. If you have a little more time, I'd love for you to stay."
Joy lit up Peter's face. "Yeah? That would be awesome!" His smile turned impish. "Wanna watch a movie or something? Eat junk food Tony pretends he doesn't hoard in the pantry?"
Natasha huffed a laugh. "Now you're speaking my language."
They relocated to the couch with a treasure trove of snacks—chips, cookies, gummy worms. As the opening credits for Star Wars rolled, Natasha tucked herself into the corner of the couch, feeling almost content. Having company turned out to be just what she needed.
Over the course of the next few hours, they chatted and laughed their way through the movie. Peter provided a constant stream of commentary and trivia, and even Natasha found herself getting invested in the plight of the ragtag rebels. She'd forgotten what it was like to just relax and enjoy something, without the weight of the team's dissolution hanging over her head.
When the end credits finally rolled, Natasha realized she was smiling. Like, actually smiling for the first time in weeks. She shot a sidelong glance at Peter, who was humming happily along to the score. On impulse, she reached out to brush gentle fingers over his hair.
"Thank you for this, little spider," she said softly. "I didn't realize how much I needed a friend today."
Peter leaned into her touch like an affection-starved cat. "Everyone needs a friend sometimes," he said simply. Then his expression turned mischievous. "So, wanna watch the next one?"
Natasha laughed. "You read my mind."
Over the course of the rest of the afternoon and evening, they steadily worked their way through the original trilogy. As the hours passed in Peter's cheerful company, Natasha felt some wound deep inside of herself starting to heal. She hadn't realized until now just how lonely she'd been in the hollowed-out tower, how desperately she missed the bonds of team and family.
During a lull between films, Natasha ordered takeout, insisting Peter stay for dinner. They ate lo mein and dumplings out of the containers, chatting about nothing important. In all her years as a spy and assassin, Natasha couldn't remember a day this soft and warmly domestic.
After dinner, Natasha curled up at one end of the couch, leaning into Peter's shoulder as he queued up the next movie. She should probably feel embarrassed at the way she was clinging to this teenager like a lifeline. But his steady kindness had somehow cracked through all her defenses, leaving her raw and vulnerable in a way she hadn't felt since she was a child.
About halfway through the movie, Natasha felt wetness on her cheeks and realized to her shock that she was crying. Actual tears, prompted by grief for her team and gratitude for this sweet, compassionate boy beside her. She quickly swiped them away, but more followed, dripping onto her shirt.
Peter noticed immediately. "Natasha? What's wrong?"
His voice was soft with concern. That just made Natasha cry harder. God, when was the last time someone had just been gentle with her like this?
"Nothing's wrong," she managed thickly. "Just...a lot of emotions today. But it's a good thing." She offered him a shaky smile. "You helped open me up. I'd forgotten what that was like."
"Oh." Peter looked touched. He slid closer and wrapped his arms around her. After only a brief hesitation, Natasha melted into the embrace, tucking her face into his shoulder.
"It's okay, мама паук," Peter murmured, rubbing her back. "Let it out. I've got you."
So Natasha did, crying out weeks of grief and anger until Peter's shirt was soaked through. And the whole time, he just held her, emanating comfort.
When her tears finally ran dry, Natasha simply slumped against Peter, utterly wrung out. But also more at peace than she could remember being in a long time.
"Thank you," she mumbled into his shoulder.
Peter gave her a gentle squeeze. "Of course. Anytime you need a hug or a crying shoulder, I'm your spider-guy."
Despite herself, Natasha huffed a weak laugh. God, she really had adopted this kid, hadn't she? The thought probably should have scared her—she wasn't exactly maternal material. But instead it just felt right somehow.
On impulse, she dropped a kiss to Peter's messy curls. "You're a good kid. We're lucky to have you."
Peter made a soft, happy noise and snuggled closer. They stayed like that for a long moment, the movie playing forgotten in the background.
"Love you, мама паук," Peter mumbled sleepily.
Natasha's heart clenched. "Love you too, little spider," she whispered.
She wasn't sure how much time passed before she heard the elevator chime followed by familiar footsteps. Natasha lifted her head to see Tony stride into the room, his gaze immediately zeroing in on her and Peter curled up on the couch. His eyebrows shot up.
"So I see you two have met," he remarked.
Peter sat up quickly, scrubbing at his tear-stained face. "Oh, uh, hey Mr. Stark! I was just, um..."
"We were watching movies," Natasha supplied, giving Peter's shoulder a reassuring squeeze before standing up. "How was your trip?"
"Well, no one tried to kill me, so I'd call it a success." Tony's sharp gaze flicked between them. "But clearly the real drama happened here while I was gone."
Natasha crossed her arms. "It was a rough day," she said simply. "Peter kept me company."
Tony's expression softened. "That so?" He shot the boy a knowing look. "Good man. She try to disembowel you at all for invading her space?"
Peter laughed. "Nah, she put up with me. I told her all about the web shooter upgrades we've been working on."
"He knows how to handle dangerous spiders," Natasha added wryly.
Tony rolled his eyes at the nickname. "Great, I'm going to have nightmares about spider children now." But there was undeniable fondness in his voice as he regarded Peter. "Well, I'm back now, so you're free to scuttle home to your aunt if you want."
Peter glanced between Tony and Natasha, biting his lip. "Actually, um, could I talk to you guys about something first?"
Natasha raised an eyebrow. This was clearly something important to him. "Of course. What's on your mind?"
Peter worried his sleeve between his fingers. "It's just...I know how hard it's been on both of you since the Avengers broke up. And I get that it was a really bad fight between Mr. Stark and Cap. But, well..."
He looked up earnestly. "They're still your friends, right? Your family. And I think if you reached out, they'd want to try and make things right."
Natasha's breath caught. Of course the endlessly optimistic boy would suggest reconciliation. But the wounds between Tony and Steve felt too deep to repair.
Still, looking at Peter's pleading expression, she felt her resolve waver. Because he was right—she missed her team fiercely, her found family. Even after everything, she desperately wanted them back.
Tony's face had shuttered. "Sometimes there's just too much broken to fix," he said flatly.
But Peter didn't seem deterred. "I don't think so," he insisted. "Not if both sides want to try. And Natasha does too, I know she does." He shot her an entreating look.
Natasha hesitated, then sighed. "He's not wrong," she admitted quietly. "I'd give anything to have the team whole again."
Tony still looked skeptical. But Peter pressed on. "So if you reached out—just to talk, start small—what's the worst that could happen? At least you'll know you tried. But I really think they'll want to make amends too."
He looked between them hopefully. Natasha could practically see Tony's resistance weakening. Because god knows they both missed their little found family desperately.
Finally Tony heaved a long breath. "Your optimism is exhausting, kid," he muttered. But then he nodded tiredly. "Fine. I'll extend an olive branch, see if the old gang wants to attempt to play nice again."
Peter's whole face lit up. "Yes! Thank you, Mr. Stark, it'll be good, I promise."
Despite himself, Tony looked reluctantly fond. "Yeah, yeah. Don't get too excited yet. I have to track down our wayward Capsicle first."
But Natasha could tell Peter had gotten through to him. Something like hope flickered to life in her chest. Maybe it was naive, but...she wanted very badly to believe her family could be whole again.
It took some doing, but Tony finally managed to arrange a meeting with Steve, Sam, Wanda and the others at an undisclosed location. There was a lot of hurt and suspicion on both sides, but also longing and remorse. In the end, they agreed to gather at the tower to continue the long, difficult process of reconciliation.
Having Spider-Man there as a friendly moderator helped enormously. No one could stay hostile in the face of his rambling enthusiasm and clear desire for everyone to get along. Bit by bit, tense silences softened into halting conversation, which gradually evolved into something almost comfortable. They still had a long way to go. But it was a start.
When Friday finally announced it was nearly 2 AM, Peter yawned hugely and announced he really did need to head home and sleep. The others chuckled, the mood light in a way it hadn't been since that awful fight in Siberia.
Natasha crossed the room to wrap Peter in a warm hug. "Thank you for this, little spider," she murmured. "I know it couldn't have been easy, but you gave our family a chance."
Peter returned the embrace happily. "I just want the people I care about to be happy. And I knew you all missed each other." He pulled back to smile up at her. "That's what families do, right? Look out for each other."
Emotion clogged Natasha's throat. She smoothed a hand over his hair. "You've got the biggest heart of anyone I know, Peter Parker. We're so lucky to have you."
Over Peter's shoulder, she could see Steve watching them with a small, wistful smile. Their gazes met, and he gave her a nod of understanding. Of shared grief for the time they'd lost, and fragile hope for the future.
There was still a lot of healing to do. But with time and patience, Natasha believed their family could be whole again. And they had Peter to thank for giving them that chance.
The others gradually filtered out, retiring to their old rooms in the tower. Soon it was just Natasha and Peter left in the kitchen. She squeezed his shoulder gently.
"Get some rest, little spider. And thanks again for everything."
Peter flashed her a sleepy smile. "Anytime, мама паук. Love you."
"Love you too." The words came easily this time.
As Peter shuffled off toward the elevator, Natasha reflected that she did feel like a mama spider who'd gotten one of her baby spiders back. There was still work to do mending the web. But for the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful about the future.
One Month Later
Natasha smiled to herself as she heard the elevator doors slide open, followed by the rapid patter of footsteps across the common floor.
"Hi Mom!" Peter called brightly, dropping his backpack on the floor and collapsing onto the couch beside her.
"Hey little spider," Natasha said, warmth blooming in her chest at the nickname that had become so natural over the last month. She reached out to ruffle his hair. "How was school?"
Peter immediately launched into a spirited account of his day - classes, academic decathlon practice, stopping a bicycle thief as Spider-Man. Natasha listened contentedly, marveling at how easily this endearing boy had worked his way into her heart.
It had been just over a month since that first movie night, when Peter had shown up at the tower and wound up providing the comfort and companionship Natasha so desperately needed. Since then, he'd become a near constant presence during his free time, keeping her company in the still too-empty tower.
Natasha hadn't meant to get so attached. But Peter's open heart and relentless kindness had cracked through all her defenses, leaving her helpless but to love him. She'd never dreamed of having something so close to a son, but she wouldn't trade it for anything now.
"Oh, and I got an A on my history paper!" Peter finished excitedly. "Thanks again for helping me edit it last week. I couldn't have done it without you."
"Don't sell yourself short, you did all the hard work," Natasha said, though privately she swelled with pride at having contributed to his success. "I'm glad I could help. We make a pretty good team."
Peter beamed. "Definitely. Best mom-son duo ever!"
Warmth rushed through Natasha's veins. No matter how many times he called her that, it never failed to make joy bloom in her heart.
"So." Peter's expression turned sly. "Since I aced that paper, does that mean we can order pizza tonight to celebrate?"
Natasha laughed. "I suppose I can be persuaded." She ruffled his hair again before standing. "Friday, order Peter's usual from that pizza place down the street, please."
"You're the best!" Peter declared happily, bouncing to his feet. As Natasha passed by, he wrapped her in an enthusiastic hug.
Natasha returned the embrace, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. "Love you, little spider."
The words still didn't always come easily. But looking at Peter's bright smile, she knew he understood.
While they waited for the pizza, Peter chattered about wanting to add a heater function to his Spider-Man suit for winter patrols, peppering Natasha with excited questions about her old uniform's capabilities. She did her best to keep up with his lightning-quick stream of thoughts.
The elevator chimed just as Peter was enthusiastically miming web shooter movements, and they both looked over in surprise. Tony stepped out, eyebrow quirked at their antics.
"Do I even want to know?" he asked wryly.
"Just discussing suit upgrades," Natasha said. "Peter had some thoughts about adding a heater."
Tony looked amused. "What, is my multi-million dollar suit not high-tech enough for you?"
Peter's eyes widened. "No, no, of course not Mr. Stark! Your design is awesome, I just thought maybe-"
Tony held up a hand, smothering a smile. "Relax kid, I'm messing with you. If you've got feature ideas, run them by me and we can test them out."
Peter visibly brightened. "Really? That would be so cool!" He launched eagerly into an explanation of his idea as Tony listened with a fondly exasperated expression.
Natasha hid a smile, warmth blooming in her chest. However Peter had wheedled his way into Tony's inner circle, she was glad for it. The two were good for each other - Tony's brilliance perfectly complemented by Peter's heart.
The elevator chimed again a few minutes later, heralding the arrival of Steve, Sam and Wanda. Natasha tensed slightly. Things with the rogues were still tentative, everyone walking on eggshells after their explosive fallout. But Peter had been subtly encouraging both sides to spend time together, trying to mend their fractured bonds.
Today must be one of his attempts at a group hangout. Natasha stifled a sigh, bracing herself. The rogues meant well, but she still felt raw and exposed around them in a way she never was with Peter.
As if sensing her thought, Peter shot her an encouraging smile across the room before bounding over to greet the new arrivals. Natasha forced a neutral expression and followed at a slower pace.
"Hey guys!" Peter said brightly. "We ordered pizza if you're hungry."
"Growing boy like you, bet you could eat a whole pie yourself," Sam said with a chuckle, reaching out to ruffle Peter's hair. His keen gaze flicked briefly to Natasha in silent assessment before returning to Peter. "But yeah, I could eat."
"Me too, pizza sounds great," Steve added with a tentative smile. He met Natasha's gaze. "Good to see you, Nat."
"You too, Steve," Natasha returned evenly. She was relieved when Friday announced the pizza's arrival just then, giving her an excuse to busy herself fetching plates and napkins.
The group relocated to the sofas, maintaining a careful distance between the two factions. But the pizza gave them a safe shared focus, and soon they were chatting casually about films and books, carefully avoiding any mentions of the Accords or Bucky. Natasha mostly listened silently, only occasionally offering a comment.
After the meal, Peter ingeniously suggested a round of board games, refusing to take no for an answer from anyone. His enthusiasm was infectious, and soon Natasha found herself reluctantly smiling as she tried to bluff her way through a round of poker. For a little while, it almost felt like old times.
But eventually talk turned back to the rift between them, as it always did. The rogues pressed Tony again on revisions to the Accords, while he staunchly defended their necessity. Voices rose and body language tensed, old arguments rehashed.
Natasha felt her chest tighten, threat response instincts kicking into high gear. She should intervene, try to calm things down. That was her role - the level-headed mediator, finding compromise.
But she was so tired of being in the middle. Of constantly biting her tongue and smoothing over grievances between her fractured family. She just wanted things to be okay again.
The others were still arguing heatedly, paying her no attention. No one noticed as Natasha slipped away to the kitchen, taking deep breaths to calm her racing heart. She braced her hands against the cool granite counter, struggling to rein in the emotions swelling in her throat. Crying was a pointless weakness she could ill afford right now. Better to shut it down, bury it deep-
"Mom?"
Natasha whirled at the soft voice behind her, hastily swiping a hand over her eyes. Peter stood in the kitchen entrance, forehead creased with concern.
"Peter. I didn't hear you come over." Natasha cleared her throat, forcing composure. "Sorry, did you need something?"
"No, I..." Peter hesitated, then crossed the room to her side. "I just wanted to check on you. You seemed really upset."
Damn his perceptiveness. Natasha managed a weak smile. "I'm fine, little spider. Don't worry about me."
Peter's expression didn't waver. "It's okay if you're not fine, you know," he said gently. "I know all this stuff with the team has been really hard on you."
Natasha's throat tightened dangerously. She ducked her head, busying herself rinsing out a glass at the sink. "I'll be alright. I've dealt with worse."
She could feel Peter's eyes on her as she forced measured breathing, willing away the burn behind her eyes through sheer force of will. Crying was a useless display of vulnerability. If she could just get a grip-
Suddenly Peter's arms were around her waist, his head pressed between her shoulder blades. Natasha stiffened in surprise.
"It's okay to not be okay, Mom," Peter said softly. "You don't have to be strong all the time. Not with me."
And just like that, Natasha's fragile composure shattered. A harsh sob tore from her throat as she turned and pulled Peter against her chest, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Because he was right - she was so far from okay. Keeping her fractured family from falling apart was slowly killing her. She just wanted her team back, her home.
"I can't do this anymore," Natasha gasped out between sobs. "I just want everything to be how it was."
"I know," Peter murmured, hugging her tightly. "I know, Mom. Just let it out."
So she did, weeks of grief and stress pouring out of her. And through it all Peter simply held her, emanating love and comfort.
Finally the tide of emotions slowed, and Natasha became aware of voices nearby. She lifted her head from Peter's shoulder to see Steve, Tony and the others gathered uncertainly in the kitchen doorway, watching her breakdown with obvious concern.
Natasha stiffened, raw vulnerability momentarily overridden by cold embarrassment. She never let anyone see her like this, let alone the team. They must think she's pitiful, that the great Black Widow has gone soft-
But then Peter pulled back just far enough to smile up at her, eyes shining with empathy. "You did so good, Mom," he said warmly, swiping a thumb over her wet cheek. "I'm proud of you."
Everything in Natasha stilled, cold shame evaporating. Peter was proud of her vulnerability, her openness? But...that was antithetical to everything she'd been conditioned to believe about strength.
Yet looking into Peter's earnest eyes, she understood then that this was his gift - to see the beauty in frailty, the strength in letting yourself rely on others.
The realization unlocked something in Natasha's chest. She exhaled slowly and glanced over Peter's shoulder at her stunned teammates. They had seen her weakest, rawest self exposed, and the world hadn't ended.
"I'm sorry," she rasped, voice still thick. "I didn't mean for you all to see that."
"No, I'm glad we did," Steve said seriously, crossing the kitchen to join her and Peter. His expression was soft with empathy. "I had no idea how much you were hurting, Nat. You've been so strong through all of this."
"Too strong," Natasha admitted unsteadily. "I thought I had to keep everything together, but..." Her composure wavered again, and she pressed a hand over her eyes.
Steve gently gripped her shoulder. "You don't have to bear this alone anymore." His gaze took in Tony, Sam and Wanda as well. "All of us, we should have been there for you. I'm sorry, Nat. We've been poor teammates."
The sincerity in his voice made Natasha's eyes prickle again. God, she didn't deserve such immediate forgiveness, such kindness. Not after everything she'd done, all the red in her past.
But before the dark thoughts could take root, Peter was there again, wrapping his arms firmly around her waist. "You stop that, Mom," he chided gently. "No one is mad at you. We're your family, and we love you."
Natasha released a shaky exhale, the darkness receding again beneath a fresh wave of light this boy somehow radiated. She smoothed a hand over his hair.
"What did I do to deserve you, little spider?" she asked thickly.
Peter just hugged her tighter. Over his shoulder, Natasha saw Tony watching them both, a complicated mix of emotions on his face. But when he met her gaze, his expression softened into something like acceptance. Like maybe he was finally starting to understand why Natasha had let this endearing, big-hearted boy past all her defenses.
Seeing the team rallied supportively around Natasha seemed to remind Peter of his self-appointed mission. He pulled back from the embrace and turned to Tony, eyes pleading.
"Mr. Stark, I know you're trying to protect people with the Accords," he said earnestly. "But can't you see how much harm they're still causing? Forcing heroes to choose sides, tearing friends apart?"
His gaze flicked meaningfully to Natasha. Tony looked uncertain but didn't argue, so Peter pressed on.
"There has to be a better way. Some compromise that keeps accountability without taking away the freedom to protect people." His voice dropped, soft and vulnerable. "I don't want to have to choose between being an Avenger and being Spider-Man. I just want us all to be a family again."
Natasha slid an arm around Peter's shoulders and gave him a gentle squeeze. God, this kid and his endless capacity for hope never ceased to amaze her. After everything that had happened, he still believed they could fix this.
Tony's stern expression had gradually softened as Peter spoke. Now he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, enough waterworks. If we're doing this, I'm going to need coffee."
He moved to start the machine brewing, then pulled out his tablet. "Friday, bring up the most recent Accords draft. Might as well start dissecting this thing."
Hope flickered tentatively to life in Natasha's chest. They were really going to try again to find a compromise. Led by the unwavering optimism of a teenage boy.
The team gathered around the kitchen island as Tony called up the dense legal document. For the next two hours, they pored over it section by section, debating which parts might be amended. Peter mediated eagerly, providing an optimistic counterbalance to Tony's protectiveness and Steve's stubbornness.
Slowly, painstakingly, they hammered out a framework:
Mandatory training and assessment for all enhanced individuals. With exceptions for emergencies, anonymity concerns, and extenuating circumstances.
International oversight board with rotating members from various nations, instead of a UN council. No unilateral control over hero movements or missions.
Right to a fair hearing/appeal of sanctions. No imprisonment without due process.
Natasha watched it all unfold with quiet awe. This remarkable kid had done what none of them could - drawn the team back together through sheer power of heart. They still had details to work out, and rebuilding trust would take time. But reconciliation finally felt possible now.
As the night stretched on, Peter eventually dozed off curled against Natasha's side. She gently brushed the hair from his forehead, heart swelling with love and gratitude.
"We don't deserve that kid," she murmured aloud.
Tony huffed a quiet laugh across the table. "You got that right." His expression turned solemn. "I think you do, though. Deserve him."
Natasha quirked an eyebrow in surprise. Tony scrubbed a hand down his face, looking vaguely uncomfortable with the emotional turn.
"I know I give you crap about it," he admitted. "But clearly the kid is good for you. And..." He offered her a fragile smile. "I'm glad you have each other."
Natasha's throat tightened unexpectedly. From Tony, that was as good as a blessing. "Thank you," she managed thickly. "That means a lot."
Tony waved her off, but his eyes were warm. Natasha stroked Peter's hair and allowed herself a small, vulnerable smile.
The road ahead was still uncertain, but she knew one thing without doubt - no matter what came next, she and Peter would face it together. Her little spider would make sure his family stayed whole.
Two Weeks Later
Natasha stepped out of the elevator onto the Avenger's communal floor and froze in surprise. After months of it being cold and empty, the space was suddenly buzzing with activity.
Steve and Sam were hauling boxes out of the elevator while Wanda trailed after them levitating a stack of luggage. Across the room, Clint was sprawled on the couch fiddling with the TV remote while Scott chattered enthusiastically beside him.
"Hey Nat, welcome back," Steve called warmly, setting down his box. He crossed over to give Natasha a quick hug. "The team's moving back into the tower now that the revised Accords are in place."
Natasha hugged him back automatically, still stunned. "I...didn't realize that was happening today," she said carefully.
Steve winced apologetically. "Sorry, it was kind of last minute. Tony only gave the all-clear this morning."
Natasha glanced around, taking in the gathered rogue Avengers. After months apart, it was jarring to see them suddenly back here like nothing had happened.
But she supposed that was rather the point. Peter had helped broker a fragile peace between them, a chance to be a team again. She should be happy about this reunion.
Before she could spiral further, a pair of strong arms wrapped around her from behind. "Nat!" Clint exclaimed brightly in her ear. "Good to see you."
Despite herself, Natasha felt a rush of warmth for her best friend. She turned in his embrace to return the hug.
"You too, Clint," she said sincerely. Having him close again was a comfort, his steadfast presence grounding her.
Over his shoulder, she saw Wanda hovering tentatively. Natasha opened her arm in silent invitation, and the younger girl immediately rushed over to join the embrace.
"I've missed you, Natasha," Wanda murmured, face pressed into her shoulder.
Unexpected emotion clogged Natasha's throat. She smoothed a hand over Wanda's hair. "I've missed you too, little witch."
A familiar ache bloomed in her chest, nostalgia and grief swirling together. However strained things still were, having the team gathered here again was dredging up poignant memories of better times. Movie nights and shared meals, inside jokes and easy affection.
She wanted that closeness back desperately, for the family bonds broken by the Accords to mend. But trusting each other again after the betrayals wouldn't be quick or easy.
Steve seemed to read her thoughts on her face. He gave her shoulder a gentle, reassuring squeeze. "I know it's a lot all at once," he said kindly. "But we'll get there."
Natasha offered him a small smile in return. She wanted to believe they could fix this. With time, patience, and a certain friendly neighborhood spider's help, maybe they really could be whole again.
Right on cue, the elevator chimed, and Peter came bounding out. "Hey Mom, I brought over the book I was telling you...."
He trailed off as he took in the crowded room, eyes going wide. "Oh! Wow, hi everyone!" Recovering quickly, he broke into a bright grin. "You're all moving back in? That's awesome!"
"Mr. Parker, welcome back," Steve said warmly, crossing over to shake Peter's hand. "We're getting the team back together, thanks in large part to you."
He smiled gratefully down at him. "I don't think we could have reconciled without your encouragement. You remind us what's really important."
Peter rubbed the back of his neck, looking adorably embarrassed by the praise. "I'm just glad I could help. I know how much being Avengers means to all of you."
"It certainly does," Sam agreed, slinging a companionable arm around Peter's shoulders. "So on behalf of myself and the rest of Team Cap, thanks for kicking our butts into gear, kid."
Peter grinned up at him. Before he could get flustered again, Scott bounced over eagerly.
"Spider-Man, right? Dude, I am loving the suit, so cool!" He held up his hand for a high-five which Peter enthusiastically returned.
"Oh wow, Ant Man! I've heard so much about your skills, sir, it's an honor!"
Scott looked inordinately pleased. "Call me Scott, kiddo." He leaned in conspiratorially. "So between us bugs, any super-heroing tips for a newbie? I could use some pro mentoring."
As Peter started eagerly suggesting techniques, the others looked on with fond amusement. Natasha stayed slightly apart from the group, emotions conflicted. She was thrilled Peter was getting to properly meet the rogue Avengers at last. He'd been so devastated by their fracturing, certain they could reconcile if they just tried.
Now here he was, the friendly catalyst once again bringing them together. Natasha wished she had his optimism, his endless capacity to hope.
After chatting with Scott, Peter made his way around the room, greeting everyone with infectious enthusiasm. Clint regaled him with the tale of the airport battle in Germany, only slightly exaggerating his own accomplishments. Wanda showed off a few glowing magic tricks to Peter's delight.
Through it all, Natasha hung back, content to simply watch her little spider shine. He so easily brought out the best in people, his warm nature effortlessly cracking through even the most guarded exteriors.
Finally Peter came bouncing over to her side, eyes bright with joy. "Mom, did you see...?"
He broke off suddenly, expression growing worried. "Is everything okay?" he asked in a lower voice meant just for her. "I know it's a lot, getting everyone back here at once."
Natasha's heart swelled with love. Perceptive as always, her little spider was attuned to her conflicted feelings about this reunion. Even in his excitement, he was checking in on her.
She ran a gentle hand through his hair. "I'm alright," she assured him softly. "Just getting used to having a noisy family again." She smiled. "But it's a good change. We have you to thank for it."
Peter immediately looked flustered. "Oh, no, I just wanted to help-"
"And you did, more than you know," Natasha said sincerely. She met his gaze, letting all her pride and gratitude show. "Bringing everyone back together, giving us a chance to heal...we'd be lost without you, little spider."
Emotion shimmered in Peter's eyes. Impulsively, he wrapped his arms around Natasha in a fierce hug. "I'm glad I could help," he mumbled into her shoulder. "I just want you guys to be a family again."
Warmth rushed through Natasha's veins as she held him close. However the logistics of this reunion shook out, she had no doubt Peter could guide them forward as a team again. His steadfast love and support were the glue they so desperately needed.
Over Peter's head, she noticed the others watching them both with soft smiles. Clearing her throat, Natasha gently pulled back from the hug but kept one arm around Peter's shoulders.
"You all wanted a chance to get to know the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, right?" she said lightly. "Well, here he is. Ask away."
That was all the prompting the group needed to gather eagerly around Peter and start peppering him with enthusiastic questions. How did he discover his powers? What was it like to walk on walls? Did he make his own webs?
Peter answered everything with good-natured excitement, eyes shining as he got to talk openly about his alter ego among his heroes. Natasha chimed in occasionally with tongue-in-cheek stories of Peter's antics that made him blush and protest.
Despite lingering tensions, the conversation flowed easily. Peter's presence seemed to wash away reservations, leaving behind fond amusement and a shared sense of pride at this brave kid in their midst. For the first time in ages, they simply felt like a team again.
After well over an hour of chatting, Scott announced he was starving and suggested ordering pizza. The group readily agreed, the informal meal giving them another low-pressure forum for bonding.
While they ate, conversation turned to reminiscing about missions and exploits from better days. Remembering the good times they'd shared, without the looming shadow of the Accords' fallout hanging over them. Laughter echoed across the room, the atmosphere warmer than it had been in ages.
Staring around at her reunited team, joy and sorrow swelling in her chest, Natasha was startled to feel tears prickling her eyes. God, she'd missed this closeness so much. She quickly blinked away the moisture before it could spill over.
From his spot beside her, Peter noticed anyway. He leaned his shoulder against hers in silent support. Natasha gave him a small, grateful smile in return. However this reconciliation unfolded, she was just so thankful to have him by her side.
After the meal, the group gradually split off into smaller conversations. Peter wound up on one of the sofas chatting animatedly with Scott and Clint about the mechanics of his web fluid.
Natasha settled onto the adjacent couch with Wanda and Sam, contentedly soaking up the ambiance of her noisy, crowded family. The hole that had gaped inside her since the team fractured finally felt like it was starting to stitch back together.
She wasn't naive enough to think things could instantly return to how they were. The broken trust and bitter arguments wouldn't be forgotten overnight.
But healing was possible now, led by the unwavering optimism of the boy across from her. However long and winding the road back to wholeness, Natasha knew Peter would be there each step of the way, guiding them forward.
Eventually Peter's rapid-fire energy began winding down as the night grew late. Mid-sentence, he broke off on a yawn, drawing chuckles from the group.
"Someone's past his bedtime," Tony remarked wryly from his perch on the kitchen counter. But his expression was soft as he regarded the sleepy teenager across the room.
"No 'm not," Peter mumbled, scrubbing a hand across his eyes. But he didn't protest when Steve gently steered him upright.
"C'mon son, let's get you home to your aunt," he said fondly, wrapping an arm around Peter's shoulders. "It's been a long day for us old folks too."
The others voiced their agreement, gradually hauling themselves to their feet amidst groans about creaky joints. As everyone filtered toward the elevator, Natasha crossed over to where Peter was leaning heavily against Steve's side, eyes at half-mast.
She carded a hand through his hair. "Get some rest, little spider. I'm so proud of you for everything you did today."
Peter blinked up at her drowsily. "Didn' do much," he slurred. "Jus' happy you're all back t'gether." He shot her a sleepy, heart-melting smile. "'S gonna be good now, Mom. You'll see."
Unexpected emotion clogged Natasha's throat. God, what had she ever done to deserve this sweet, earnest boy and his endless faith?
Blinking back sudden tears, she pulled him into a fierce embrace. Peter immediately folded into it with a contented noise, tucking his face into her shoulder.
"I love you so much, little spider," Natasha whispered thickly. "Thank you for giving me my family back."
She wasn't often so openly affectionate in front of the team. But she was just so full of feelings tonight - nostalgia and sorrow, hope and overflowing love for the child in her arms. For once, she couldn't bring herself to hold back.
Peter nuzzled closer with a mumbled, "Love you too." They stood swaying slightly for a long moment, his steady presence grounding Natasha as emotion swelled powerfully in her chest.
Finally she pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, smoothing his hair off his forehead. "Now get home before you fall asleep on your feet," she said gently. "I'll come by this weekend so you can show me that book, okay?"
"'Kay." Peter blinked slowly up at her. Then his eyes widened in realization. "Oh, wait, I can't this weekend 'cause..."
He trailed off suddenly, ears reddening. Natasha raised an eyebrow.
"Because why?" she prompted.
Peter mumbled something unintelligible, not meeting her gaze. When Natasha just waited patiently, he finally rushed out, "I got you a ticket for my academic decathlon meet."
Surprise rushed through Natasha. He wanted her to come watch him compete? The shy, vulnerable pleasure in his eyes made her heart clench.
"Of course I'll be there," she said softly, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze. She smirked. "I can't wait to see my little genius in action."
Peter grinned, the last of his shyness fading. Impulsively, he hugged her again with a mumbled "thank you."
Natasha held him close, emotion clogging her throat. God, she would probably cry at this competition, witnessing him shining brightly amongst his academic peers. But she couldn't wait.
Unfortunately, her show of open affection seemed to have opened the floodgates - when Peter pulled back, his eyes were suddenly swimming.
"Whoa, you okay?" Natasha asked in concern, swiping a thumb over his damp cheek. Had she said something wrong?
But Peter just nodded, lower lip wobbling dangerously. "M'okay. Just....really glad you're all back together." His breath hitched on what might have been a sob. "Wanted this for so long."
Ah. Natasha's heart broke even as affection swelled. Her sweet boy was just emotional after the long day, his big heart spilling over. She pulled him close again, cradling his head against her shoulder.
"Shh, I know, little spider," she soothed, rocking him gently as a few tears soaked into her shirt. "We're going to be okay now. It's all going to be okay."
She wasn't sure who she was trying to reassure - Peter or herself. But it seemed he had needed the promise of wholeness as much as she did. They clung to each other as shared emotion crested and slowly receded, leaving behind bone-deep comfort and connection.
When Peter finally pulled back, eyes red but peaceful, Natasha cupped his damp cheek gently. "I love you so much, little spider," she whispered. "Thank you for caring this much about us fumbling heroes. You make us better just by being here."
Peter sniffed, managing a watery smile. "Love you too, Mom."
He swiped at his eyes, then finally seemed to register the silent, misty-eyed audience still watching them both. Flushing brightly, he mumbled another thank you before quickly scurrying for the elevator.
Natasha let him go, knowing he was embarrassed by his uncharacteristic show of emotion. She hoped he wasn't too flustered - she never wanted him to feel self-conscious for wearing his heart openly around this found family he cared for so deeply.
Speaking of, she turned to find the rest of team still hovering nearby, looking suspiciously bright-eyed themselves. Steve cleared his throat gruffly.
"That kid is really something else," he managed a bit hoarsely.
"Understatement of the year, Cap," Sam said with a wet chuckle. He slung his arm around Steve's shoulders. "C'mon, I think we could all use some rest."
There were murmurs of agreement as everyone filtered toward bedrooms and couches, the joy and nostalgia of the evening settling into a quieter sense of peace. Tomorrow there would be more logistics and negotiations, the slow work of earning trust again.
But they would manage it together. However long it took, Natasha knew that somehow, Peter's steadfast heart would guide them home.