"so now i'm going to protect you"
Natasha woke with a start, instantly alert as she did every morning. The room was still dark, the first rays of dawn just beginning to creep through the small window. She looked down at the tiny form curled against her side, his thumb firmly lodged in his mouth as he slept soundly. Her son, her precious Peter, was still fast asleep.
Natasha gently brushed the toddler's soft curls back from his forehead, marveling again at how much he looked like her. The same eyes, the same nose...he was her little replica. Her heart ached thinking about how he came to be. The Red Room's attempts to make her incapable of bearing children had failed, though she still had no idea how. When she realized she was pregnant, she'd hidden it as long as she could, terrified they would take the baby from her. But eventually they found out. To her shock, they allowed her to carry to term and keep the child, on the condition that he would begin training as soon as he could walk.
Now Peter was three, and she knew their time together was limited. Any day now they would come for him, her sweet boy, and try to mold him into a cold, unfeeling weapon. Natasha swallowed hard. She couldn't let that happen. Somehow, she had to get Peter out. Get them both out. But the Red Room kept her under constant surveillance, never letting her out of their sight for more than a few minutes. She had limited ways to contact the outside world, having gotten into contact with SHIELD agents to get them out of the Red Room. All they needed to do was wait.
Peter stirred, blinking open his big green eyes. "Mama," he murmured sleepily. Natasha gathered him close, savoring the feel of his little body tucked trustingly against hers.
"Good morning, little spider," she whispered in Russian. "Did you sleep well?"
He nodded, grinning up at her. At least for now, he was still just a normal little boy. She had to keep it that way.
They went through their usual morning routine, getting dressed and eating a simple breakfast. Natasha kept up a steady stream of chatter and games to entertain Peter, all the while keenly aware of the cameras tracking their every move. The Red Room agents observing them took no interest in the boy yet, but she knew that would soon change. His third birthday had been a few weeks ago. The age when they started to train the children...the age when they began to break them.
As she smoothed Peter's unruly curls, an idea came to her. It was risky, but it might just work. "Let's play hide and seek today," she suggested brightly, seeing his face light up. He loved games. "You hide first, I'll count to 20, then come find you!"
Peter giggled and scampered off, no doubt looking for the best hiding place he could find. As soon as he was out of sight, Natasha sprang into action. She raced to the small bathroom adjoined to their sleeping quarters. With trembling hands, she pried up one of the tiles along the wall, revealing a tiny, dusty air vent. It was meant for heating and cooling, but was just big enough for her to squeeze through. She'd discovered it by accident years ago while cleaning. Now it would serve as their escape route.
Working quickly, Natasha grabbed a small bag and stuffed in a change of clothes and a little food. She added the stuffed dog Peter loved to sleep with. Then she scribbled a desperate note on a scrap of paper, hoping against hope it would reach its intended recipient. Taking a bobby pin from her hair, she picked the lock on the door that led out to a dim corridor. After checking that no one was coming, she wedged the note firmly into the crack between the door and the frame. Then she squeezed into the air vent, replacing the tile behind her.
It was a tight fit, but she managed to shimmy through with the bag in front of her. At last she reached another vent cover and kicked it out, emerging in an empty storage room. Natasha allowed herself one brief moment of elation before hurrying on. She had to find Peter before they realized she was gone.
Retracing the steps to their room, she called softly for him. There was no response. Natasha felt the first stirrings of panic. Where could he be? She raced through the halls, checking every nook and cranny, even risky places he knew were off-limits. Still no sign of him.
Then she heard faint voices from one of the training rooms up ahead. Moving silently, she crept to the door and peered through the small glass window. Her heart seized in her chest. General Dreykov, one of the most sadistic Red Room trainers, had Peter by the hand and was leading him towards one of the fighting rings.
"No," Natasha choked out. Not wasting another second, she threw open the door and sprinted into the room. Before Dreykov could react, she knocked him out cold with a powerful kick to the head. Peter cried out in alarm but she swept him up in her arms, holding him close.
"Mama, what's happening?" he asked tremulously.
"We're getting out of here, little spider. Don't be afraid." Natasha dropped a kiss to his curls, then took off running. Alarms began blaring overhead and angry shouts rang out behind them. They'd be after her any second. She had to get Peter to safety.
Clutching his small body to her chest, she ran full tilt through the maze of corridors. She could hear footsteps pounding after them. Natasha let her training take over, focusing only on the escape. Left, right, right again, down the stairs, through a storage room. She dodged her pursuers at every turn, never slowing. But she could hear them closing in.
Up ahead was a small door that she knew led outside. They just had to make it. The shouts behind them grew louder. Natasha gasped as a bullet whizzed past, missing them by inches. Peter was crying now, his little hands fisted tightly in her shirt.
"Шшш, маленький паук, все будет хорошо. Я тебя не брошу," she murmured. Shh, baby spider, everything's gonna be okay. I won't leave you.
At last they were at the door. Natasha wrenched it open, the bright light momentarily blinding after so many years inside. Gunshots crackled and she felt a blaze of pain as a bullet grazed her arm. But then they were out, racing across the snowy courtyard towards the fence. More bullets sprayed the ground around them but Natasha didn't stop. She leapt and scrambled up the fence, hauling herself over the top then dropping down on the other side, rolling to cushion Peter from the impact.
For a moment she lay still in the snow, clutching him close as she gasped for breath. They'd made it out. But they weren't safe yet. Climbing to her feet, Natasha peered cautiously around. She needed somewhere to hide, just for a little while.
Just then a familiar voice rang out. "Natasha!" She whirled to see Clint Barton striding towards her, bow in hand. Relief crashed over her. He'd gotten her note.
"Clint," she gasped out. "Help us, please."
His sharp eyes quickly took in her disheveled, bloody appearance and the wailing child in her arms. Clint stepped forward and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Let's get you out of here. Fury's waiting with a jet."
Natasha sagged against him. They were going to make it. But then the fence behind them shook as the first of the Red Room soldiers began climbing over. There was no time to lose. She started to put Peter down so she could help Clint fight them off, but he clung to her neck desperately.
"No, no, Mama, don't leave!" he sobbed.
Natasha's heart twisted but she gently detached his grip. "Peter, I need you to be my brave little spider now. This man is going to keep you safe. I'll just be right over there." She nodded towards the jet idling on a nearby road where a long black coat - Nick Fury - was striding down the ramp. Natasha kissed Peter's wet, cold cheeks and passed the crying child to Clint. "Shhh малыш, it's alright, Mama's here."
Then she turned to stand shoulder to shoulder with Clint, guns raised to hold off the approaching soldiers. Her soul shrieked at being separated from her son, but she forced herself to stay focused. They would keep him safe. She trusted Clint and Fury with her life and Peter's.
It was a brutal fight, but at last all the soldiers lay dead or unconscious in the snow. Natasha swayed on her feet, pain and exhaustion threatening to pull her under. Then Peter's wails reached her and the sound gave her strength. She raced to the jet where Clint stood waiting at the bottom of the ramp, her son held securely in his arms. With a sob, Natasha took Peter from him and cradled the boy close, his tears soaking into her shirt.
"Shh мой сын, мой паучок, ты в безопасности. Я тебя больше никому не отдам," she repeated over and over. My son, my little spider, you're safe now. I won't let them take you again. Slowly, Peter's cries eased and he clung tightly to her as she carried him onto the jet. Clint and Fury followed behind, closing the ramp and cutting off the sight of carnage outside.
Natasha sank down on one of the bench seats, the fight finally leaving her body. It was over. They were free. Peter was safe. Stroking his hair, she began to softly sing a Russian lullaby until the boy slipped into an exhausted sleep in her arms. Natasha pressed a kiss to his forehead then looked up at Fury.
"Thank you," she said hoarsely.
His one eye crinkled in an almost smile. "Couldn't let the Red Room get their hands on him. Don't worry, Romanoff. We'll keep you both safe now."
Natasha nodded wearily and leaned back against the seat. They were in SHIELD's hands now. And she knew she could trust Nick Fury and Clint Barton. So she finally allowed herself to relax, wrapping herself protectively around her son. They had escaped the Red Room. Peter was free. That was all that mattered.
Over the next twelve years, Natasha settled into life at SHIELD with Peter at her side. She took on missions for Fury along with Clint, who became a trusted friend, but never went deep undercover again. She refused to leave Peter for more than a day or two. He was her world.
They told everyone she was his mentor, not wanting to reveal he was actually her son. Natasha knew she had a lot of enemies out there who would hurt the boy to get revenge on the Black Widow. So they kept their true relationship secret, and instead said that she was his mentor, and let SHIELD agents just assume what they wanted to think. Eventually, word did get out to not only SHIELD, but the whole public eye regarding Natasha and Peter's true relationship, but no one really batted an eye about it.
Peter grew into a bright, energetic teenager who constantly amazed her with his intelligence, wit and compassion. He was nothing like what the Red Room would have molded him to be. Natasha thanked God every day that she'd managed to get him out in time.
When Peter was 15, he came home one day looking anxious. Natasha instantly went into alert mode, checking him over for injuries. "Peter, what is it? What's wrong?"
"I, um..." He hesitated, then finally met her eyes. "I got bitten by a radioactive spider on my field trip today. And now I'm...different."
Natasha stared at him for a long moment as he explained what happened. Powers. Her son had powers now. She could easily imagine the Red Room's reaction to that, a shudder going down her spine. They would have turned him into a monster. Forced him to use his new abilities as a weapon.
But SHIELD...SHIELD protected enhanced individuals. Fury had told her so. And Peter was still her kind, loyal son who flinched at the idea of hurting anyone, even a bully. Maybe this spider bite was not the disaster it first appeared.
Taking a deep breath, Natasha pulled Peter into a hug. "Things will be alright, little spider. We'll figure them out together."
And they did. Peter learned to control his new abilities with her help. He fashioned himself a suit and began fighting crime in Queens as Spider-Man, the masked vigilante. Natasha couldn't deny the swell of pride watching her brave boy take on bad guys and stop muggings and bike thefts. But she also worried for him constantly.
When Nick Fury paid them a visit not long after the spider bite and mentioned his new team called the Avengers, Natasha saw the opportunity she'd been waiting for. A chance to work openly with Peter, keeping him close and watching out for him.
They went to Stuttgart together to apprehend Loki along with Steve Rogers and Tony Stark. As soon as Loki was secure on the quinjet, Peter lifted off his mask and Natasha wrapped an arm around his shoulders.
"Peter, I'd like you to meet Steve and Tony. Guys, this is my son Peter."
Both men did a comical double take, looking between the two of them. "Your son?" Tony repeated in shock.
Natasha smirked. "Long story. But yes, Peter is my son. I expect you both to watch out for him." She gave them a significant look that had them nodding quickly. Satisfied, Natasha led Peter to a seat and sat down beside him.
There would be plenty of time for explanations later. For now, she was content simply having her boy close as they flew towards what was sure to be their strangest battle yet.
Peter settled into life as an Avenger faster than Natasha expected. He was shy and hesitant at first, intimidated by the powerful warriors he was now supposed to fight alongside. But his inner strength and kindness soon shone through, winning over even gruff Tony Stark.
Natasha made sure Peter called or texted her several times a day from school. She'd enrolled him at Midtown Tech under protection from Fury, wanting Peter to have as normal a high school experience as possible. He told her all about his two best friends, Ned Leeds and Michelle Jones.
"I want you to meet them this weekend," Peter said one afternoon as they ate sandwiches together in the Avengers compound kitchen.
"Of course," Natasha replied with a smile, ruffling his hair. "If they're important to you, I want to meet them."
That Saturday, Peter introduced her to Ned, an excitable boy who geeked out over Natasha's presence, and the dryly witty Michelle who insisted they call her MJ. Natasha approved of both kids immediately. She was glad Peter had found such genuine friends. Although she did pull MJ aside briefly to show her one of her wrist cuffs that delivered a powerful electric shock.
"Hurt my son and you'll get a taste of this," she said with a sweet smile. MJ just laughed.
"Don't worry, I can handle Peter. But I like you, Natasha."
Peter turned bright red when Natasha told him what she'd done, but she just chuckled. It was a mother's job to embarrass her son sometimes.
The only dark spot was Peter's bully, a boy named Flash Thompson. Peter insisted Flash only picked on him with words, but Natasha was ready to teach the punk a lesson. She brought it up to the school principal, who dismissed her concerns.
"Boys will be boys," he said with an indulgent smile. "This Thompson boy just has a little crush on his girlfriend, I'm sure."
Natasha's hand clenched under the desk, but she held back her temper through years of training. She left the office quietly, then proceeded to hack into the school system and make sure Flash Thompson failed his math test that week. If they wouldn't punish him properly, she'd just have to get creative.
Peter came home angry more than once because of Flash's bullying and had to talk Natasha down from actually kidnapping the teen. But one day, Peter had finally had enough.
Natasha was waiting to pick Peter up from school when the vice principal suddenly appeared, guiding a subdued looking Peter to her car. "Ms. Romanoff, there's been an incident with Peter and another student," the man said gravely, as if Peter had committed some heinous crime. "We'd like Peter to be suspended for the rest of the week."
"What happened?" Natasha demanded, instantly on the alert.
"Yeah, tell her what happened," Peter spoke up, a mulish look on his face.
The vice principal sighed. "Mr. Thompson alleges that Peter shoved him and broke his nose after some minor teasing. But physical assault cannot be tolerated under any circumstances."
"Minor teasing?" Peter repeated incredulously. "He cornered me in the locker room and said I didn't deserve to live with the Avengers, that I was just a charity case you picked up out of pity. He said..." Peter faltered, looking down. "He said I was tainted because of where I came from. Who my mother is."
Rage ignited inside Natasha, her hands clenching into fists. How dare this little worm say such things about her son. Peter met her eyes uncertainly and she realized he was afraid she would agree with his punishment. Natasha took a calming breath and turned a icy look on the vice principal.
"My son defended himself against cruel bullying, something your administration has failed to address despite my complaints. Peter will not be suspended. And if this Flash Thompson continues harassing him, I will be speaking to my lawyers about a lawsuit against the school. Do we understand each other?"
The man gaped at her, then finally nodded. Natasha gently guided Peter into the car, then drove them back to the compound in silence. There, she pulled him into a tight hug.
"I'm so proud of you for standing up to that bully," she said fiercely. "Don't ever believe his lies. You are my son and you belong here."
Peter hugged her back just as hard. "Thanks, Mom," he whispered. Her heart clenched at the name she'd been told no one would ever call her, but means more than anything in that moment.
"Always, my little spider," she murmured, holding him close. No one would ever make her child feel unworthy or unwanted again.
Over the next few years, Peter continued growing into his role as Spider-Man and as an Avenger. Natasha never stopped worrying about him, but she was proud of the hero he became.
Peter continue going to high school, supported by his best friends, Ned and MJ. Natasha was delighted when Peter told her shyly that he and MJ had officially started dating. She'd seen the sparks between them for awhile. Though of course, she still pulled MJ aside again with threats if the girl hurt Peter. By now, it was more of a tradition than anything.
Peter became well-known to the public as her son as they went on missions and fought battles together. Most people thought it was sweet, the scary Black Widow having a soft spot for some random kid. But others cruelly dredged up Natasha's past with the Red Room, claiming she had no business raising a child.
The rumors and criticisms stung, but Natasha tried not to let Peter see how much. She wouldn't let anyone make him feel bad about his origins. But one day Peter cornered her, looking upset.
"Mom, I heard what that pundit said on TV last night. You can't let them talk about you like that!"
Natasha sighed and hugged him. "It's alright, Peter. I don't care what they say about me. I'm just happy you're safe."
Peter shook his head stubbornly. "Well I care! You're a hero, you always protect people. So now I'm going to protect you." Before Natasha could ask what he meant, Peter was marching off.
That night, she turned on the news to see Peter in his Spider-Man suit, unmasked being interviewed, revealing himself as Spider-Man. "My mother is the strongest, most caring person I know," he said firmly into the cameras. "Everything she's done since I was born was to keep me safe. She got us both out of a terrible place. I won't let anyone talk bad about her."
Natasha's eyes stung with tears as she listened to her son defend and praise her to the world. She would never stop owing him for the light he brought into her life. Getting him out of the Red Room was the best thing Natasha ever did. And no matter what the future held, whether more battles or happy times, she knew they would face it together.
One Year Later
Natasha stepped off the quinjet into the biting wind, surveying the all-too-familiar snowy landscape. The Red Room compound loomed in the distance. She had never imagined returning here, not since the day she'd escaped with Peter over ten years ago. But she'd gotten intel that they were restarting the Black Widow program, preparing to torture and brainwash more girls. Natasha couldn't let that happen.
Peter landed gracefully beside her in his Spider-Man suit, straightening up to look around. "So this is where we grew up?" he asked softly. Natasha nodded, old memories threatening to overwhelm her. Then she shook them off. She couldn't afford to be distracted.
"Let's do a perimeter sweep, make sure our entry point is still clear," she said briskly, pushing away the ghosts of the past. Having her son by her side grounded Natasha, keeping her focused on the present mission. She would destroy the Red Room's ability to hurt anyone else, then hopefully bury this place forever.
They slowly circled the compound, finding no signs of activity or guards. Natasha felt her senses tingling in warning. It was too quiet. She signaled Peter to stop behind a snowbank near their planned entrance point. He crouched down beside her, head cocked.
"Do you hear something?" Natasha whispered. His heightened senses had proven useful many times.
Peter nodded, brows furrowing in concentration beneath his mask. "Voices. Can't make out words but...three people, I think. Coming this way."
Natasha's muscles tensed, ready for a fight. Who else could be here? Gripping her batons, she prepared to attack whoever was about to round the corner.
A tall figure hurried into view, followed by two others. Natasha sprang up, baton raised to strike- then froze in disbelief. Shock rendered her momentarily speechless. Because standing before her were two people she never imagined seeing again - her mother and father. Melina and Alexei. And trailing behind them, hands clenched around familiar looking batons...
"Yelena," Natasha gasped out. Her sister - fiery, combative Yelena who she'd grown up training with. Who she thought had been killed long ago. Her family, who she'd been forced to leave behind when she took Peter and ran all those years ago. They were here.
"Natasha?" Melina breathed out, eyes wide. The older woman surged forward to crush Natasha in a desperate embrace. Over her mother's shoulder, Natasha saw the glint of tears in Alexei's eyes as he wrapped his strong arms around both women. Only Yelena held back, watching warily.
"How are you here?" Natasha asked in wonder when they finally stepped back. "I thought they killed you for letting me escape."
Pain flashed across their faces. "We were punished," Alexei said heavily. "But not killed. For years they kept us imprisoned, until Yelena helped us break out." He clasped the younger blonde woman's shoulder with a look of pride.
Yelena gave a terse nod then turned her piercing gaze on Natasha.
"We're going to bury this place once and for all. Burn it to the ground with no one left inside." Her mouth curved in a vengeful smirk. Natasha felt herself smile back. How she had missed her fierce little sister.
"That's why we're here too."
At Natasha's voice, the others seemed to suddenly become aware of Peter still awkwardly lingering behind her. Melina's brows rose in surprise.
"Oh, who's this?"
Natasha reached back and pulled Peter forward. She kept an arm wrapped around his shoulders, more for her own comfort than anything. These three people were the only family she had besides her son. Natasha desperately hoped they would accept him.
"This is Peter...my son."
Stunned silence met her announcement. Three pairs of eyes swung between Natasha and the nervous teenager at her side.
"Your...son?" Alexei repeated hoarsely. Melina pressed a hand to her mouth, eyes shimmering.
Yelena stared hard at Peter. "How old are you?"
"Um, fifteen ma'am," he said, clearing his throat.
"Fifteen," Yelena echoed. Comprehension dawned on her face. "You escaped with him when he was three?" Natasha gave a small nod.
Melina made a choked sound and surged forward again to wrap Peter in her arms. "My grandson! Oh, let me look at you!"
She cupped his face in her hands, staring intently into his eyes. Peter glanced at Natasha in bewilderment over Melina's shoulder but tentatively returned the embrace.
"Nice to meet you...Grandma."
Melina laughed tearily at the name while Alexei stepped forward to pump Peter's hand enthusiastically. "A fine boy! Going to be tall and strong like his grandfather." He thumped a fist against his broad chest.
Peter relaxed a little at their warm reception. "Actually, I have super strength already, sir. I was bitten by a radioactive spider."
"A spider?" Yelena cut in, frowning. "Is that why you're dressed like that?" She flicked a disdainful hand at his suit.
"Yelena, be nice," Melina chided before Peter could respond. "This is your nephew."
Yelena huffed out a breath but stepped closer to scrutinize Peter. "I suppose there is a resemblance," she allowed. Her lips twitched upwards. "At least he didn't inherit Natasha's hair."
Peter ran a self-conscious hand through his brown curls while Natasha shot her sister a mock glare. The initial shock seemed to be wearing off, familiar teasing tones easing back into their interactions. It was almost like no time had passed at all. Natasha felt her heart swell with happiness at having these people - her family - back in her life so unexpectedly.
Alexei threw an arm around Peter's shoulders, reminding Natasha powerfully of when he used to walk with her like that long ago. "Tell us about yourself, boy. What are your skills?"
Peter launched eagerly into an account of his spider powers, how he got his powers, with Natasha interjecting occasional fond or exasperated comments about her reckless son. Melina listened with a delighted smile while Yelena looked reluctantly impressed by his abilities.
"I'll be honest, Natalie. I never pictured you as the mother type." Melina said wistfully when Peter finally wound down. "But, look at you now! Raising an incredible son. We've missed so much of your life."
"Well, I'd like to get to know all of you now," Peter said sincerely, giving her a lopsided smile that made Melina tear up again. Natasha had to blink rapidly too at the sweet scene.
"And we you, little spider," Yelena declared, slinging an arm around his shoulders. "I can teach you to fight properly. Those spider tricks won't always be enough."
Peter's eyes lit up at the offer. Natasha hid a grin, imagining the training sessions to come between her sister and son. She had a feeling Yelena would go easy on him at first. But Peter would probably win her over quickly, just as he did most people. She was so proud of the earnest, kindhearted man he was growing into.
Alexei clapped his hands together, pulling them all from their thoughts. "As much as I want to get to know my grandson, we should complete our mission first." He gestured towards the silent compound.
Natasha nodded, sobering. "You're right. We'll have time later." Taking a deep breath, she turned towards the place that had haunted her dreams for so long. The place where she'd nearly lost Peter before they ever really had a chance to be mother and son.
Well, it would never hurt anyone again, not if any of them could help it. And this time, Natasha had her family by her side. Their unexpected reunion had rekindled a light inside her she thought lost forever. Glancing around, she saw the same fierce joy reflected on all their faces.
"Let's end this," Natasha said. Side by side with her son, her parents, her sister, she led the way towards the Red Room to raze it to the ground once and for all.
Natasha signaled her family forward, all of them moving as stealthily as shadows towards the looming Red Room compound. She and Peter slipped in first through their planned entry point, a small side door she remembered from childhood that was rarely guarded. The others would enter a few minutes behind them from the front as a distraction.
Silently, she and Peter made their way through the dim halls towards the dormitory section where she knew they were keeping the young girls. As they approached, Natasha heard faint sounds - quiet sobs, a girl's whispered voice begging to be let go home. Red hot rage ignited inside her. How dare they imprison children here, trying to twist them into monsters. Not this time.
Peter met her eyes, jaw tight with anger beneath his mask. Natasha gave a curt nod. On her signal, Peter kicked the door open and they burst into the long room lined with small cots. A dozen or so girls shrieked and huddled back as the Black Widow and Spiderman appeared.
Natasha quickly raised her hands. "It's alright, we're getting you out of here," she said in Russian, keeping her voice gentle. Slowly, the girls relaxed a little at the sight of the familiar batons on her hips. Natasha felt sick realizing how they'd been conditioned not to fear that weapon.
She pushed away the dark memories. "Come with us, quickly! We're taking down this place."
The girls needed no further convincing, clambering from their beds and clustering eagerly around Natasha. She did a quick head count - fifteen young ones, ranging from perhaps five to fifteen years old. Natasha felt fiercely protective of them all already. None would suffer the fate she and Yelena had here.
"Stay behind us, little ones," she told them. "And you." She pointed to the oldest girl. "Help the younger ones, yes?" The girl nodded quickly, herding the tiny children into a group. Natasha gave her an approving smile, remembering being tasked to watch some of the youngest girls when she was that age.
With Peter guarding their rear, Natasha led the way out. The girls followed obediently, clutching each other with wide eyes but not making a sound. Natasha's heart ached for them. She pointed them towards a side exit, wanting to get the children out of harm's way.
Just then shouts and gunfire sounded from the front of the compound. The distraction had begun. "My family will keep them occupied, we just need to get you outside," Natasha assured the nervous girls.
They were almost to the door when a squad of armed soldiers rounded the corner. Natasha instantly put herself between them and the children, batons up and crackling with electricity. Peter let out a warning yell and sprang forward to web down two of the men. More came pounding down the hall and suddenly they were surrounded. Natasha unleashed her fury, taking down one after another with ruthless efficiency. From the corner of her eye, she saw Peter flipping agilely as he fought, firing webs and dodging bullets.
Then it happened in an instant. Two shots rang out, punching into Peter's chest. He let out a pained yell and went down hard.
"Peter!" Natasha screamed. She saw red, her vision blurring with terrified rage. With a feral cry, she launched herself at the remaining soldiers. She was dimly aware of the girls screaming and sobbing behind her but all Natasha could focus on was her son bleeding on the ground. She had to protect him.
Natasha attacked relentlessly, not stopping until every last soldier lay dead or unconscious around her. Chest heaving, she dropped her batons and ran to Peter's side. The bullet wounds were high on his chest and she sobbed in relief to see them already closing up. His enhanced healing must be kicking in.
Still, terror clawed at her. "Peter, look at me! Just hold on!" Natasha begged, putting pressure on the wounds. He groaned, head rolling towards her as his eyes blinked open.
"M'okay Mom," he mumbled. "Hurts but... healing."
Natasha choked back another sob, quickly blinking away her tears. She couldn't fall apart yet. Smoothing back his hair, she spoke urgently. "We're getting you out of here. I'll carry you if I have to, just stay with me!"
Peter gave a weak nod, face tight with pain. Before Natasha could lift him, loud footsteps pounded towards them. She snatched up her batons again, spinning around with a ferocious glare. But it was only her family, skidding to a halt with horrified looks at the scene before them.
Alexei cursed violently in Russian while Melina let out a strangled cry and ran forward. Yelena's face went bone white at the sight of her nephew bleeding on the ground. Without a word, Alexei handed his shield to Yelena then scooped Peter up in his massive arms.
Peter let out a faint protest that he could walk, but Alexei shushed him. "No arguments, boy. Let your grandfather help."
Heart swelling with love and gratitude, Natasha clasped Alexei's arm. Then she turned to the frightened girls still huddled nearby. "Come, quickly! Before more soldiers arrive."
Melina immediately took charge of getting the children moving. Her voice was gentle but firm as she herded them along, keeping them calm. Yelena brought up the rear, eyes constantly scanning for threats. No one else would hurt these girls or Peter if she had anything to say about it.
They moved as quickly as possible through the corridors until finally emerging into open air. Natasha gulped it down, feeling like she could breathe properly again. The quinjet sat nearby, ramp lowered.
Alexei carried Peter inside and laid him down. Natasha ripped away the top of his Spiderman suit to better access the wounds, now closed but still oozing blood. She grabbed the medical kit to clean and bandage them while Peter drifted in and out of consciousness.
"We need to get him back to the Compound," Natasha said tightly, heart clenching every time Peter moaned.
Alexei put a steadying hand on her shoulder. "We will, Natalia. The boy will be alright."
She nodded jerkily and pressed a kiss to Peter's clammy forehead. He had survived the Red Room's attempt to make him a mindless weapon. He would survive this too. Natasha's sweet, heroic, selfless boy. Because she would protect him with everything she had.
Once Peter was cared for, Natasha helped get the girls settled on board. Melina had managed to keep them calm, though they stared around the jet with huge eyes. Natasha's heart broke all over again for them. She crossed to crouch before the oldest girl, who seems to be roughly fourteen or fifteen, putting a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"What's your name?" she asked softly.
The girl hesitated, then lifted her chin. "Natalia."
Natasha had to close her eyes briefly against the swell of emotion. Of course they would give her that name, force her into the role of the Black Widow. This girl deserved so much more.
"Natalia," she repeated gently. "That was my name here too. But now I'm Natasha. All of you will get to choose your own names, your own future. No one will ever hurt you again. I promise."
The girl - Natalia's - eyes shone with faint hope. Natasha stayed kneeling before her even as the jet lifted off, keeping her hand firmly on the child's shoulder. A connection between two girls who had survived this place but would never be defined by it again.
As they flew away, Alexei and Melina set the charges remotely. An immense explosion bloomed behind them and Natasha knew the Red Room was gone for good. Yelena let out a fierce cry of victory, slamming her fist into her palm. They'd done it.
Natasha stroked Peter's hair where he lay sedated and breathing evenly on a cot. They'd destroyed the Red Room. But far more importantly, they'd saved these girls and her son. She met Yelena's eyes across the jet, seeing her own bone-deep relief and joy reflected there. Then Natasha dropped her gaze back to Peter's sleeping face.
He and the girls represented the future now, she thought. A future free of the Red Room's shadow. They would make sure of it.
The quinjet touched down at the Avengers Compound and Natasha was on her feet instantly.
"We need a medical team, now!" she shouted down the ramp even as she rushed to Peter's side. His bullet wounds had reopened during the flight, blood soaking through the bandages. Natasha's heart pounded. Why wasn't he healing faster?
Steve came sprinting into the hangar, eyes widening at the scene. "What happened?"
"He was shot, just help me get him to the medbay!" Natasha begged. Together, they transferred Peter onto a gurney and raced him away, the medical team converging on them. Natasha clung to her son's limp hand as they worked, barely holding back sobs. This was her worst nightmare come true.
"You have to save him, please," she choked out. The doctor nodded reassuringly even as she cut away Peter's suit to better access the wounds. Natasha tried to stay out of their way, blinking back tears. Steve's steady hand on her shoulder kept her upright.
After what felt like hours, the doctor finally stepped back. "The bullets are out and we've given him some of your blood to help him heal," she told Natasha gently. "His vitals are stabilizing. He'll be just fine in a day or two."
Weak with relief, Natasha sank into a chair by Peter's bedside. The rest of her family hurried in and she quickly updated them. Melina pressed Natasha's head to her shoulder, stroking her hair comfortingly. Even Yelena's stoic expression cracked with relief.
"That boy is too stubborn to let a couple bullets stop him," she declared bracingly. Natasha huffed out a wet laugh. Her sister was right. Peter would pull through, just like he always did.
With the initial panic fading, Natasha suddenly registered Steve awkwardly lingering nearby. She quickly made introductions, explaining how her family had unexpectedly shown up at the Red Room. Steve's eyes widened dramatically at that revelation but he recovered quickly.
"Well, any family of Nat's is welcome here," he told them sincerely, shaking Alexei's hand and kissing Melina's. Yelena eyed him up and down skeptically until Natasha elbowed her.
"Be nice," she muttered. "Steve's a good man."
Yelena rolled her eyes but gave Steve a curt nod. Natasha suppressed a smile. That was practically effusive praise from her prickly sister.
Soon the other Avengers were crowding into the medbay, drawn by Friday's alerts. More shocked reactions ensued when Natasha introduced her family. Tony stared at them all through narrowed eyes.
"Let me get this straight - your long lost spy parents and sister just happened to show up at the same secret evil base we were planning to take down? That's one hell of a coincidence, Romanoff."
Natasha returned his suspicious look coolly. "I know it seems far-fetched. But I trust them. Yelena helped my parents escape imprisonment by the Red Room. They all want it destroyed as much as we do."
"I am no friend of the Red Room," Alexei rumbled, crossing his massive arms. "And any friend of my daughter is a friend of mine." He thumped Tony on the back, making him stumble.
"Yes, well...anyone who can manhandle Stark like that is okay in my book," Bucky said with a smirk. Tony shot him a glare but seemed mollified.
Soon Melina had charmed them all with her warm, maternal nature. Natasha watched her family interacting with the Avengers with a full heart. They belonged here with her. Fate had brought them back together, and she would never let them be separated again.
A soft voice spoke up from near the medbay doors. "Excuse me, Miss Natasha?"
Natasha turned to see Natalia - the oldest of the girls they'd rescued - hovering anxiously. She quickly crossed the room and crouched down. "What is it, sweetheart?"
The girl twisted her hands together. "The other girls are scared. They don't understand where we are. Will you explain?"
"Of course." Natasha followed Natalia out to the lounge area where the rest of the girls waited. Their pinched, frightened faces tore at Natasha's heart. She sat among them, gathering two of the smallest ones onto her lap. The rest gradually crept closer, eager for answers and comfort.
In a gentle tone, Natasha explained that they were safe now at the Avengers Compound. No one would ever make them train or fight here. The girls slowly relaxed as she talked, their trust in her clear. She vowed silently to protect that trust.
A movement caught her eye and Natasha glanced up to see Melina standing in the doorway, observing with glistening eyes. When the girls started asking sleepy questions about what would happen to them now, Melina stepped forward.
"We'll find loving families for you all, little ones," she declared warmly. "We won't let you all be forgotten."
The girls' faces lit up with joy and relief. Natasha swallowed past the lump in her throat. She and Melina would give them the childhoods they deserved.
As she looked around to talk to a younger auburn girl wandering by, something in the child's eyes made Natasha pause. Big, sea-green eyes stared back at her boldly beneath a tousled curtain of auburn hair. Natasha's breath caught. Those eyes...it reminds her of herself.
"What's your name, little child?" she asked softly.
The girl tilted her chin up. "Wanda. I'm 12 years old."
Wanda. The name resonated deep within Natasha, stirring an instant sense of connection. Without thinking, she hugged the girl close. Wanda clung to her trustingly, those eyes so like her own boring into Natasha's soul.
Natasha knew then what she had to do. Rising, she walked with Wanda, holding her hand, over to where Melina stood. "This is my daughter now," she declared quietly but fiercely. "I'm adopting her."
Melina's eyes crinkled in a warm smile. She reached out to cup Natasha's cheek. "Of course, my love." Looking back at Wanda she added, "Welcome to the family, little Wanda Romanoff."
Wanda gave Natasha a smile that lit up the whole room. Natasha's breath hitched. This precious child was hers now. She would give Wanda the childhood she'd fought so hard for Peter to have. Her two children, born of darkness but deserving only light. Natasha silently vowed to protect them both with everything she had.
Once things settled down and the girls were asleep in guest rooms under Alexei and Melina's watchful eyes, Natasha finally allowed herself to return to the medbay. The steady beep of the heart monitor reassured her as she sank into the chair by Peter's bedside. His color looked better and the wounds were closed up, only faint scars remaining. Natasha clasped his limp hand in both of hers.
"You'd better not scare me like that again, little spider," she whispered. "Your sister still has to meet you."
Peter remained deeply asleep but Natasha kept up a quiet stream of chatter, telling him all about brave little Wanda. She talked until her voice went hoarse, keeping vigil as the hours passed. And finally, just as dawn's light peeked through the windows, Peter's eyes fluttered open.
"Mom?" he mumbled.
A sob catching in her throat, Natasha surged forward to gather him gently in her arms. "I'm here, Peter. You're safe."
He returned her embrace, still weak. Natasha pressed kisses to his hair as she finally allowed the terrified tears to spill over, exhausted from the panicked highs and lows of the past day. But it was over now. Peter was awake and recovering, the Red Room was gone, and she had her family back. They were all going to be okay.
A few days later, Peter was back on his feet and Natasha decided it was time to introduce him to his new sister. She went to the room where Wanda was happily playing dolls with another little girl.
"Wanda," Natasha said softly. "There's someone special I want you to meet."
Wanda hurried over and slipped her small hand trustingly into Natasha's. Together they walked down the hall to the lounge where Peter waited with Melina and Yelena.
At their entrance, Peter broke into a warm smile. He walked over and crouched before Wanda.
"Hi there. I'm Peter, your new big brother."
Wanda stared at him solemnly for a moment before pointing up at his hair. "You have curls like me."
Peter laughed. "I guess I do."
Wanda considered him another moment, then reached out to pat his cheek. "I think you'll be a good brother."
Melina pressed a hand to her heart at the sweet scene while Yelena looked on approvingly. Peter's eyes were bright as he stood and ruffled Wanda's hair. "I think you'll be a pretty cool little sister."
He glanced over at Natasha. "She's amazing, Mom."
Natasha had to blink back a fresh wave of tears. In the course of one day, her family had expanded in the most wonderful ways. She crossed the room to wrap an arm around each of her children, kissing both their heads.
"My little spider and my little witch," she murmured. "My heart is so full with both of you here."
Peter hugged her back tightly. "We're going to have the best adventures together," he told Wanda, who nodded excitedly. Chuckling, Natasha released them.
She watched her children chatter together, Peter's protective instincts already coming out as he made Wanda laugh and promised to show her his spider webs. With her sister and parents nearby, Natasha felt fully at peace for the first time she could remember.
The Red Room was gone for good. And in its place, she had built this family - this home. Their past connected them but the future was theirs to shape. Natasha slipped an arm around Yelena's shoulders, meeting her sister's bright gaze. Yes, the future was bright indeed.
Three Years Later
Natasha paused in the kitchen doorway, taking in the bustling scene before her. The long table practically groaned under the weight of dishes and platters crowded on every inch. Turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls, pies - enough food to feed an army, which made sense considering who was coming to dinner.
Laughter rang out as Peter darted around grabbing serving utensils while Wanda used her scarlet magic to stir multiple pots on the stove at once. Natasha's heart swelled watching her two kids, now grown into incredible young adults. At 20, Peter was strongly built and energetic as ever, though with an underlying gravity that came from years of battling evil. Wanda at 17 remained petite with Natasha's slender build, but her sea green eyes held untold power since her mutant abilities had manifested.
Yet despite their strength, they still bickered lightheartedly over mundane things like any brother and sister. Currently, Peter was attempting to steal a roll from the breadbasket only to yelp and jerk back his hand as it sparked red.
"Hey, no powers in the kitchen!"
Wanda smirked, eyes flashing crimson. "Then don't try stealing food before dinner, old man."
"Old man? I'm only 3 years older than you, kid."
"And yet you still have the maturity of a child, so..."
Peter tried to ruffle her hair in retaliation but she ducked away, giggling. Their antics made Natasha's chest feel light and warm. After so many hard years and battles, this playful domesticity was a balm to her soul.
Deciding it was time to intervene before the teasing escalated, Natasha stepped fully into the kitchen and cleared her throat. Peter and Wanda both whipped around looking sheepish.
"No bickering on Thanksgiving, you two," Natasha scolded gently, hiding a smile.
"Sorry, Mom." Wanda shot her brother a mischievous look. "Peter started it."
He gasped dramatically. "Did not! Lies and slander!" But his eyes twinkled as he came over to sling an arm around Natasha's shoulders. "Don't worry, we'll be on our best behavior for dinner. Right, Wanda?"
"Of course." Wanda smiled sweetly, but Natasha didn't miss the way several pillows suddenly smacked into the back of Peter's head.
He yelped and tried to bat them away. "Hey, knock it off!"
"Wanda, enough," Natasha said, biting back a laugh. With a flick of her fingers, Wanda sent the pillows sailing out of the kitchen. Peter ran a hand through his mussed curls and grinned ruefully.
"Remind me not to get on her bad side anytime soon."
Natasha patted his cheek. "Don't antagonize your sister then." Her eyes softened as she looked between them. "I'm so thankful to have both of you here, happy and healthy. My greatest gifts in life."
Peter ducked his head while Wanda came over to wrap her arms around Natasha's waist. "We're thankful for you too, Mama," she said, using the childhood nickname that still slipped out occasionally. Natasha had to blink back sudden tears as she held her daughter close.
Peter joined the hug, surrounding her in warmth. They'd come so far from those early days of fear and uncertainty. Natasha treasured these moments of joy with her family.
Loud voices echoed from down the hall, followed by approaching footsteps. Natasha stepped back and hastily wiped at her eyes just as more people flooded into the kitchen.
"Do I smell pie?" Clint asked eagerly, making a beeline for the counter. Laura swatted his hands away from the desserts with a laugh.
"At least pretend to have some manners, honey."
Her reprimand was somewhat undermined by little Nate Barton chanting "Pie, pie!" from his perch atop his father's shoulders. Natasha chuckled at their antics.
More Avengers streamed in on the Barton family's heels, drawn by the aromas of cooking food. Sam and Bucky bickered over what dishes to bring to the table while an exasperated Steve tried to rein them in. Wanda helped lift platters with her powers so Bruce could rearrange the settings to make room. Soon the kitchen was filled with relaxed chatter and the clink of dishes as they all pitched in to get dinner fully ready.
Natasha let the familiar chaos wash over her, enjoying seeing the Avengers like this. The past few years had forged them into a motley but close-knit family. Fights were forgiven, trusts rebuilt. Now she looked around at not just teammates, but dear friends.
"Natalia! You're letting them do all the work?" Yelena's voice called. Natasha turned with a grin to see her sister entering, followed by their parents.
"I was supervising."
Yelena scoffed but pulled Natasha into a quick one-armed hug. After some time passed after the Red Room rescue mission, her sister had finally mellowed a bit. But only a bit. Her sharp tongue and wit kept them all on their toes.
Melina and Alexei greeted Natasha warmly, her mother brushing a kiss over her cheek. "It smells wonderful in here, my love," Melina said, smiling around at the laden table and crowded kitchen.
Having her parents and sister so permanently in her life still felt like an unexpected gift. That fateful mission three years ago when their family was reunited had changed everything. Natasha cherished these holidays and milestones spent together, making up for so much lost time.
Alexei rubbed his hands together eagerly, eyeing the spread. "This is shaping up to be even better than the harvest feasts of my youth!"
Peter perked up at that. "Will you tell us stories about your childhood later, Grandpa?"
The older man laughed heartily. "Of course, my boy!" He eyed Peter and Wanda fondly. "But first, come give your old grandfather a hug."
The kids happily complied, both winding up swept off their feet briefly in Alexei's hearty embrace. Melina and Yelena took turns wrapping arms around them too, the four bonding easily despite having entered each other's lives only a few years before.
Watching her parents dote on her children as Yelena ruffled Peter's hair, Natasha thought her heart might truly burst from love. She never could have imagined such a big, beautiful, blended family back when she was young and scared, just trying to protect her infant son. Life had exceeded her wildest hopes.
"Alright team, take your seats! Dinner is served," Tony announced, clapping his hands. The crowd began migrating toward the dining room, jostling playfully for the best chairs. Natasha ushered her family to the head of the table, taking her own place between Peter and Wanda. Soon everyone was dishing up heaping plates of food and passing them around amid laughter and conversation.
For a while there was only the happy sound of eating and compliments on the cooking. But it wasn't long before Tony leaned back in his chair, patting his stomach, and asked "So what is everyone thankful for this year?"
"You just want an excuse to make a speech," Natasha teased.
Tony pointed at her. "I do actually have a great speech prepared, thank you Romanoff." That elicited groans from around the table.
But then Steve spoke up thoughtfully. "She's right though, we should all share something we're grateful for." He smiled around the table. "I'll start. I'm thankful to be spending another holiday surrounded by friends - my family."
Murmurs of agreement followed his heartfelt words. Natasha reached under the table to squeeze his hand, trying to convey her appreciation. She and Steve had been through their ups and downs over the years, but his steadfast loyalty and belief in team as family had shaped the Avengers.
Others began to pipe up with their own gratitudes - for health, for peace, for new babies and marriages. Laughter and nostalgia filled the air as they reminisced over fond memories from the year.
When it was Wanda's turn, she said simply, "I'm thankful to be part of this family." Natasha pressed a kiss to her daughter's hair, immensely touched. She knew how much that sense of belonging meant to Wanda after the trauma of her childhood.
"I'm thankful for you and Mom," Peter added when everyone turned to him. His lopsided smile lit up the room. "Being here with you guys, happy and safe...it's all she and I ever dreamed of back then. Our family now is amazing."
Natasha's vision swam and she grasped both her children's hands tightly. "I'm so proud of you both," she whispered. They had overcome so much to get here, to this place of light and love. Her heart had never been fuller.
When Natasha could speak past the lump in her throat, she found the entire table looking at her expectantly. She cleared her throat and managed a watery smile.
"I'm thankful for all of you. Our family. We've been through so much darkness and pain, but we healed together. You..." She looked from her children's faces to her parents and sister, then met the eyes of each Avenger in turn. "You gave Peter and I a home when we had nowhere to turn. You helped me protect and raise my children. We forged bonds that can never be broken. I always dreamed Peter and I would find freedom, but I never dared hope for this much love. My life is so full thanks to everyone here."
By the time she finished, there was barely a dry eye around the table. Then, Tony stood and tapped his glass for attention, Natasha felt herself about to breakdown in tears. His Thanksgiving toasts had become a tradition she adored.
"Alright, I know you're all eager to dig in, me included," Tony began with a grin. "But first, as always, I want to say a few words. Going around this table, I'm struck by how incredibly lucky I am. Every person here has helped shape my life. You've made me better. And there's nowhere else I'd rather be than with my family."
He smiled down at Pepper who squeezed his hand, then looked back up. "We've been through hell and back over the years. But we're still here, together. And we have more to be grateful for than ever this year." Tony's gaze moved to each of them in turn. "You all mean the world to me. So thank you for being a part of my life. I love you so much, every one."
A chorus of affectionate groans and cheers met this pronouncement while Tony sat back down with an unrepentant grin. Natasha smiled through her tears, applause turning to laughter when Morgan piped up "Can we eat now?"
But before the meal commenced, Steve cleared his throat. "Since Tony went sappy on us, I have one more toast, possibly even more sappy than his." He smiled wryly as Tony let out an indignant "Hey!"
Steve grew solemn, looking around. "Some of the faces we see here should have just been memories - ghosts." His eyes lingered on Bucky with shining emotion. Then shifted to Sam and Wanda and Peter in turn. "But by some miracle, fate brought you back to us. And my life is so much richer for it. I'm thankful for second chances." He raised his glass. "To family."
Clint, smiled, and raised his glass high. "To family!"
"To family," they chorused, a few sniffles echoing around the table at his poignant words. Natasha slipped an arm around Wanda, meeting Peter's glistening eyes past her. Yes, the two incredible lives fate had given to her were her greatest blessings. Natasha lifted her own drink on wobbly arms, joy and gratitude surging through her.
"Okay, that's enough sentiments, old men," Yelena announced briskly, though she was clearly crying too. Natasha made a mental note to tease her about that later.
"Time to eat!" Morgan said, as she starts grabbing food.
Chuckles broke out as everyone eagerly heaped turkey, mashed potatoes, rolls and every delicious side onto their plates. A warm glow of contentment settled over Natasha as she looked around at her family laughing and eating together. She caught Bucky's eye and lifted her glass with a smile. He returned it, the weight of shared history and understanding passing between them. So much had changed for the better for them both.
As the meal wound down, Wanda and Peter started gathering up empty plates to clean. Natasha waved them off. "Let us handle it," she told them. "You kids go relax until it's dessert time."
Her kids shared a look then Wanda turned back. "We can help, it's no problem."
Natasha softened but shook her head. "You've been working hard all day with the food and decorating. Take a break." She made a shooing motion with her hand. "Go on, have a rest. You both deserve it."
"Fiiine," Wanda sighed dramatically, then smiled. "Love you, Mom." She dropped a kiss on Natasha's cheek.
"Love you too, little witch."
Peter swung by to quickly stack a few plates on the table, leaning down to wrap Natasha in a tight hug. "Thanks for an amazing day, Mama Spider."
Natasha smiled and ruffled his hair. "Always, little spider."
She watched fondly as her kids wandered off with Clint's kids and Morgan, already laughing. Hard to believe her once tiny toddler and shy orphan girl were grown up and leading the next generation of heroes. Time flew by.
Soon the kitchen was filled with Avengers pitching in on clean up duty. As she worked, Natasha overheard Sam regaling the others with a story of one of Peter's latest antics as Spiderman.
"So the kid yanks the car away with a web just as it's about to plow right into this hot dog stand. Sends it spinning down the street instead. Then he swings over to the vendor guy, cool as can be, and goes 'I'll take two dogs with everything, please.'" Sam shook his head with a chuckle. "I swear that boy has no fear."
Clint laughed loudly. "Remember when Wanda was about ten, and she made a whole flock of pigeons attack Tony because he wouldn't buy her ice cream?"
Natasha groaned while Tony pointed a soapy spoon accusingly. "Hey, those things pecked me for a week!"
"You did refuse to buy a child dessert," Yelena said unsympathetically, making Tony scowl.
"They certainly keep life exciting around here," Melina commented fondly. Natasha exchanged a smile with her mother. The kids had come a long way from the shy, damaged children she'd taken in. Their capacity for joy and kindness amazed her daily.
Later, after cleaning was done and dessert was served, they gathered in the living room. Morgan had finally passed out in Pepper's arms while the teens were sprawled on the carpet chatting. The adults squeezed onto couches and chairs.
As conversations ebbed and flowed around her, Natasha simply sat back enjoying the ambient sounds of her family. The home they'd built here together. A brush against her arm made her turn.
"You alright?" Bucky asked softly.
Natasha smiled up at him, patting his hand in reassurance. "More than. Just thinking how lucky I am."
He hummed in understanding, metal fingers shifting to twine with hers. The gentle pressure warmed Natasha. She and Bucky had grown close over their years of working together as fellow Avengers, the friendship slowly deepening into more. He was her rock now in a way she'd never expected to find. Natasha lifted their joined hands and pressed a kiss to his knuckles, smiling when she caught the tips of his ears turning pink.
Across the room, Tony's teasing voice carried over the hum of chatter. "Come on, Underoos, give us a show!"
Peter laughed. "I'm not doing backflips off the ceiling, Tony."
"Spoilsport," Tony grumbled goodnaturedly. Natasha hid a smile. Some things never changed.
Steve's voice piped up then, tone casually curious in that way that meant he was plotting something. "Say Peter, when was the last time you and I sparred?"
Peter perked up instantly while Wanda turned towards them with an eager expression. "Oooh yes, I want to spar with you too, Steve!"
"I can referee," Yelena offered a touch too innocently. Natasha shot her a look that she blithely ignored. As if Yelena didn't love showing off in front of Steve as much as the kids did.
Steve grinned, already standing. "Let's head to the gym then."
The super soldier and two eager young Avengers hurried out, Yelena sauntering behind. The others exchanged amused looks but quickly fell back into easy chatting. Natasha just smiled softly. Steve would keep things safe, she knew. And the kids loved any chance to train with him. Their competitive streaks would be going strong today, no doubt.
"Ten bucks on Wanda taking them both down," Clint said with a smirk.
Sam scoffed. "No way. Twenty on Peter."
"I'll put fifty on the old man," Tony chimed in as Bucky rolled his eyes.
Soon friendly bets were flying around the room. Natasha just laughed. "My money's on all three of them showing off and winding up with new bruises."
"That does seem likely," Bruce agreed wryly.
The afternoon wore on in comfortable companionship until gradually people started dispersing to nap or work on projects. Natasha took the sleepy Morgan from Pepper and rocked the little girl, humming softly. The simple joy of holding a child never got old.
Eventually it was just her and Bucky relaxing together and chatting quietly. Natasha glanced out the window, watching the sun dip towards the horizon. Faint laughter and shouts carried from the direction of the gym.
Bucky followed her gaze and smiled. "How about we check in on our resident super soldiers and super teens, see how they're doing?"
"Probably a good idea before they destroy the gym," Natasha agreed with a chuckle. Hand in hand, they made their way through the quiet halls. The compound was peaceful this evening but tomorrow it would bustle with noise and activity again. And Natasha looked forward to every moment.
As they approached the gym, she heard Peter's voice ring out. "Oof, nice one!" He sounded impressively out of breath.
Then Wanda's laugh. "I win this round, boys!"
"Alright, I yield," Steve said, amusement coloring his tone despite the words.
They stepped through the doors to see all three of them collapsed on mats looking disheveled but grinning. Natasha shook her head fondly. Yelena stood off to the side, smirking.
"So who actually won?" Bucky asked with a knowing look.
"Me," Yelena said smugly.
Peter waved a hand from where he sprawled spread-eagle. "I'm pretty sure Wanda cheated with magic at one point so I say it's a three-way tie."
"Hey!" Wanda protested, though her eyes sparked impishly. She looked utterly at ease with herself and her powers in a way she'd never been as a young teen. Natasha's heart swelled.
She stepped forward to offer both kids a hand up. "I think you're all winners and also about to collapse from exhaustion," she said wryly. Right on cue, Peter let out a loud yawn, making them all laugh.
He clapped Steve on the shoulder as the man stood. "Good session?"
Steve smiled, brushing sweaty hair back from his forehead. "Always. These two keep me on my toes." He shot an affectionate look at the kids.
"I'm hungry again." Peter said.
"You just ate so much! How much more can you eat?" Wanda quipped, shaking her head.
"Hey! You know how my metabolism is, sis." Peter quipped back.
"Alright, kids. There's still a lot of leftovers. Let's head back to the kitchen, yeah?" Natasha says, chuckling.
"Now that you mention it Mom, I'm a bit hungry also." Wanda says.
"Wow, hypocrite much?" Peter says.
"Shut up." Wanda says, chasing him out of the gym, as Peter laughs.
"I guess we should go follow them." Yelena says.
Soon they were all seated around the kitchen island, plates of leftovers spread out. Easy conversation and teasing banter flowed as they ate. Natasha simply basked in it, trading amusement-filled glances with Bucky now and then at a particularly silly comment.
Watching her enhanced kids inhale massive amounts of food, she smiled. Some things came full circle. Like Peter, Wanda had needed extra nourishment to fuel her growing powers as a teen. Now she matched her brother bite for bite, arguing lightheartedly about who could eat more. Their competitive streaks came out over the silliest things.
When she caught Peter trying to sneakily add more food to Wanda's plate, Natasha finally intervened. "Alright, I think that's enough. Use your powers for good and help me wrap up the leftovers instead."
Both groaned theatrically but moved to obey, exchanging grins. Natasha hid her own smile as she handed them containers. The years of raising super-powered teens had certainly needed patience and creativity on her part. But she wouldn't trade those wild, wonderful years for anything.
Once the food was packed away, Wanda stacked the dishes and sent them floating over to the sink. Peter let out an exaggerated gasp. "You're using powers for chores? Who are you and what have you done with my sister?"
Wanda stuck her tongue out at him, making scarlet wisps dance around her fingers. "Why walk when I can do this?" She smirked, clearly delighting in showing off a bit.
Natasha exchanged a knowing look with Bucky and Steve. The joy Wanda took in her abilities now was beautiful to see after so many years of fearing them. Though of course with great power came the temptation to take shortcuts or show off at times.
"With great power comes great responsibility," Steve said mildly, unknowingly echoing Natasha's thoughts. "You'll both remember that, right?"
"We know, we know," Peter laughed. He nudged Wanda's shoulder. "Last one to the couch clears all the dust webs next week?" Before waiting for an answer, he spun and took off.
"Hey, cheater!" Wanda yelled, sprinting after him. Fond laughter followed them out while Natasha just shook her head. Some days it felt like she was raising toddlers again instead of adults. But she loved every minute of it. She wouldn't trade the beautiful, frustrating, messy, wild, wonderful adventure of parenting for anything in the world.
And the best part was, that adventure was just beginning. As Natasha looked into the joyous faces of the two incredible people she was honored to call her children, she knew their futures shone bright with possibility. Spider-Man and the Scarlet Witch would continue changing the world for the better, just as they'd changed her world completely from the moment she held them.
Natasha had never imagined herself becoming a mother. Her own childhood was cold and bloody, love a foreign concept. She assumed the Red Room had carved that capacity from her. But one tiny precious boy had proven her wrong. And then another hurting girl had showed Natasha the power of a mother's love. The love she would fiercely protect and nurture in them until her last breath.
Yes, Natasha thought with a heart full to bursting, watching her children laugh together. She was right where she was meant to be.
She was a spy, an assassin - she didn't deserve this kind of happiness. And yet here she sat, surrounded by love. There were still battles to come; she knew peace never lasted. But they would face whatever came the same way they always had.