natasha romanoff & peter parker oneshots

Penny Gallagher pulled her hoodie tighter around her face as she slipped through the backdoor of the run-down Gallagher house. She tiptoed across the creaky floor, praying no one would hear her sneak in.

"Well, well, well. Look who finally decided to show up," came a voice from the living room.

Penny cringed and slowly turned to see her older sister Natasha lounging on the couch, arms crossed.

"Where have you been all day?" Natasha demanded, her piercing green eyes narrowing. "I've been covering for you with the others, but they're starting to get suspicious."

Penny sighed, lowering her hood to reveal a mop of brilliant red hair. Her lip was split, blood crusted under her nose, and a dark bruise shadowed her left eye.

Natasha leapt to her feet. "Jesus, Pen! What happened to you?"

"It's nothing, Tasha, really," Penny mumbled, avoiding her sister's gaze.

Natasha hurried over and gently grasped her chin, tilting Penny's head to examine her injuries. "That's not nothing. Who did this to you?"

Before Penny could respond, another voice called out. "Did I hear someone come in?"

Fiona Gallagher appeared in the doorway, her wavy auburn hair pulled into a messy bun. Her eyes widened when she saw Penny's battered face.

"Shit, Pen, are you okay?" Fiona rushed over, eyebrows knitted in concern.

Penny ducked away from their fussing. "I'm fine! Just...had a little trouble on the way home."

Fiona and Natasha exchanged a knowing look. As the two eldest Gallagher siblings, only they were aware of Penny's biggest secret.

"Was it Spider-Girl business again?" Natasha asked quietly.

Penny nodded, perching on the arm of the couch. "Some muggers in an alley off Halsted. I couldn't just let them keep robbing people."

"Did they figure out who you are?" Fiona asked.

Penny shook her head. "No, the mask stayed on. They got in a few good hits before I could web them up for the cops. Superstrength doesn't make you invincible, unfortunately."

She gave a weak chuckle, but Fiona and Natasha didn't laugh. They'd known about Penny's powers for over a year now, and while they supported her desire to help people, it terrified them knowing the danger she put herself in.

Penny hadn't always been Spider-Girl. For most of her life, she'd been Peter Gallagher, the middle Gallagher sibling and younger brother of Natasha, Fiona, Lip, and Ian, but older than Debbie, Carl, and Liam. But inside, Penny had always known she was different. It took until age ten to finally articulate it to her dysfunctional family: she was transgender, a girl born in a boy's body.

To Penny's surprise, her siblings were supportive, though the adjustment took time. Their deadbeat dad Frank barely acknowledged the change, while absentee mom Monica tried but often slipped up on her preferred name and pronouns.

Going through high school as an openly trans kid wasn't easy. Penny endured cruelty and bullying, feeling like an outsider everywhere except at home with her family. The Gallaghers were rowdy and reckless, but fiercely loyal to their own.

Everything changed the day a genetically enhanced spider bit Penny at a science expo. She soon realized she'd developed incredible powers - superstrength, agility, spider-senses and the ability to climb walls. Terrified, she turned to her big sisters Natasha and Fiona for help.

As the more responsible Gallagher siblings, Natasha and Fiona stepped up. They helped Penny learn to control her newfound skills while keeping her powers secret from their other family members. When Penny decided to use her gifts to fight crime as Spider-Girl, Natasha and Fiona supported her despite their own fears.

Natasha had her own secrets. A former Russian spy, she defected to S.H.I.E.L.D. and now worked covertly as the Black Widow. She kept her Avenger status hidden to protect the family, outside of Penny and Fiona.

Fiona was also special, born with innate magical abilities. She practiced Wicca and oracle work in secret, honing skills passed down through generations of witch ancestors. Natasha was teaching her combat skills to further utilize her powers.

Together, they did their best to guide troubled, impulsive Penny into her role as a hero. But it was an ongoing battle.

"Penny, you have to be more careful," Fiona pleaded, breaking the tense silence. "What if someone recognizes you coming and going as Spider-Girl?"

"I'm trying, Fi," Penny insisted. "But I can't just do nothing when I see people in danger."

Natasha knelt before her, face etched with worry. "We get that, маленький паук. But you're no good to anyone if you get hurt...or expose who you really are. Spider-Girl needs to protect Penny Gallagher too."

Penny nodded reluctantly. She knew her sister was right. Their siblings could never know about her alter ego. They worried enough already without adding superhero battles to the mix.

"Why don't you go clean yourself up before the others see you," Fiona suggested gently.

Penny attempted a grateful smile before disappearing up the creaky staircase. Alone in the bathroom, she gingerly peeled off her ripped, blood-stained hoodie and t-shirt. Angry bruises and scrapes marred her wiry teenage frame. With a sigh, she turned the shower on hot, stepping under the steaming spray.

Most days, Penny felt trapped between worlds. At school, she put on a shy, smiling act while enduring constant misgendering and slurs from bullies like Flash Thompson. The only ones who truly saw her as Penny were teachers and her best friend Ned Leeds.

At home among the Gallaghers, she was accepted but also stifled. Her siblings meant well with their overprotectiveness, but they would never understand her abilities...her calling to be something more than just another Gallagher potential dropout scraping by in the South Side.

Only as Spider-Girl did she feel free to be her true self, unburdened and unjudged. But it came at a steep cost.

Cleaned up and dressed in baggy sweats, Penny made her way downstairs. The smell of Fiona's cooking filled the kitchen. Natasha was setting the table while Lip, Ian and Debbie filtered in.

"There you are!" Debbie exclaimed. "We were wondering when you'd show up."

"You miss an entire day of school and then disappear all afternoon?" Lip added with a disapproving scowl.

Penny avoided their gazes, mumbling vague excuses as she slid onto the bench beside Ian. Out of all her siblings, Penny felt closest to her immediately older brother. As LGBT teens, they shared a sense of not fitting into the narrow boxes society allowed.

Mickey Milkovich, Ian's boyfriend, suddenly appeared beside Ian, eyebrows raised. "Damn, you look rough, Red. The hell happened to you?"

Leave it to Mickey not to mince words. "I uh, fell off my skateboard earlier," Penny lied.

"Jesus, Pen, you've gotta be more careful on that thing," Ian chided, shooting her a concerned look.

Penny just nodded, exhaling in relief when Fiona interrupted with a tureen of steaming pasta. "Alright, eat up! Plenty here for everyone."

The Gallaghers plus Mickey crowded around the table, voices and laughter rising. Penny kept quiet, moving her food around her plate, lost in thought. She wanted to share her secret with them, but fear held her back. What if they saw her differently? Resented her for lying?

A sudden bellowing "Shit!" from upstairs made everyone jump. Carl appeared, red-faced and fuming. "Which one of you assholes used up all the fucking hot water? I just took an ice bath!"

All eyes turned to Penny. "Shit, sorry Carl, that was me," she mumbled guiltily.

"Goddammit, Pen!" Carl snapped. "Save some for the rest of us."

"Ease up," Fiona shot back. "It was just a mistake."

Carl grumbled but dropped it. Talk turned to upcoming finals and summer plans. Penny stayed silent, head pounding from her injuries. She wanted nothing more than to sneak off to bed.

A cacophony of barks suddenly erupted outside, followed by Frank Gallagher's drunken shouts. "Shut the fuck up, mutts! I live here too!"

Debbie hurried to open the back door before Frank made even more noise. He stumbled into the kitchen reeking of cigarettes and cheap whiskey.

"Well, well, my lovable band of miscreants!" he exclaimed, weaving his way to an empty chair. "How's my family of fuckups doing this fine evening?"

"We're just peachy, Frank," Fiona shot back sarcastically. She grabbed a plate and dumped pasta onto it, shoving it toward him.

Frank eagerly dug in, oblivious as always to the family's thinly veiled disdain. "So where's your sister? Petunia, Patty, or whatever the hell she's calling herself these days."

Penny flushed, staring down at her plate. "It's Penny, Frank. And I'm right here."

"Frank, come on, you know Penny's name by now," Lip chided.

Frank waved a hand drunkenly. "Right right, Petunia."

Penny stood abruptly. "I'm done. Gonna head to bed."

"But you've hardly touched your dinner," Fiona protested.

"I'm just not feeling great. Long day." Penny carried her plate to the sink, avoiding the worried gazes following her.

"I'll come check on you before I leave," Ian offered.

Penny forced a faint smile before disappearing upstairs. Alone again, she collapsed onto her rumpled bed, pressing a pillow over her throbbing head. She just wanted this disastrous day to end.

Voices drifted up through the vent - her siblings berating Frank again. Penny squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block them out. She must have dozed off, because suddenly Ian was gently shaking her awake.

"Hey," he said softly. "How you feeling?"

Penny sat up groggily. Ian perched on the edge of her bed, brow creased with worry.

"Like I got hit by a bus," Penny admitted hoarsely.

Ian brushed her hair back, frowning at the lurid bruises. "Have you taken anything for the pain?"

When Penny shook her head, Ian went to grab some ibuprofen and water. She accepted it gratefully.

"Want to tell me what really happened today?" Ian asked. "Because I know you didn't just fall off your board."

Penny hesitated. Part of her longed to confess everything. But she couldn't get her sisters in trouble too. "Just some guys giving me a hard time, that's all," she mumbled. It was partially true.

Ian's face darkened. "Did they hurt you because you're trans? Just give me their names, Pen. I'll make sure they regret ever touching you."

Despite everything, Penny smiled slightly. Her brother's fierce devotion never failed to warm her heart. "Thanks Ian, but I'm okay. Natasha and Fiona already checked me out."

"Alright, but the offer stands. No one messes with my little sister." Ian squeezed her shoulder. "Try and get some rest, okay?"

He made to leave, but Penny called out softly. "Hey, wait..."

Ian paused.

"Thanks for always having my back," she said sincerely. "Love you."

Ian's face softened into an affectionate smile. "Love you too, sis. We've all got your back, no matter what."

He slipped out, leaving Penny feeling slightly less alone. She stared up at the water-stained ceiling, listening to the familiar sounds of the Gallaghers settling in for the night. Her eyes grew heavy once more.

Just as she drifted off, a tingle at the base of her skull jolted her awake - her spider sense warning of danger. Penny shot upright, glancing around warily.

A floorboard creaked. She whirled toward the sound to see a dark figure slipping through her open window. She glimpsed a flash of white hair in the moonlight.

"Frank?" she hissed in disbelief.

"Shh, keep your voice down," Frank stage-whispered. He shut the window and crept closer.

Penny scrunched her nose at the overpowering stench of liquor wafting off him. "Jesus, Frank, did you crawl through the whole bar before coming home?"

Frank just laughed. "Maybe had a few shots...or ten. But that's not important right now." He swayed, grasping the wall for support. "I've got something to show you. A surprise!"

Penny eyed him warily. "If it's more booze, I'll pass."

"No no...it's a gift!" Frank insisted proudly. "Been savin' it for you."

Before Penny could react, he pulled a switchblade from his jacket and pressed it into her hands.

Penny yelped, nearly dropping the weapon. "Frank! What the hell?" she whispered fiercely.

"Shush shush, not so loud," he slurred, wavering on his feet. "It's for you, for protection. Dangerous world out there..."

Penny carefully set the switchblade on her nightstand. "Frank, I'm fourteen! I don't need a knife."

"Course you do. You're my kid after all."

Penny winced. "I'm not just your kid. I'm your daughter."

Frank flapped a hand drunkenly. "Right right, whatever. Point is, us Gallaghers gotta stick together. Watch each other's backs. The other kids don't get it, but I do. You're still my blood."

Penny was stunned. It was the most lucid thing she'd heard him say in awhile. "Um...thanks, Frank," she said awkwardly. "But I really can't take the switchblade. I'd just end up hurting myself or someone else."

Frank grunted in disappointment. "Fine, suit yourself. Offer's on the table if you change your mind."

He made his way unsteadily back toward the window. Penny hurried over to help before he crashed and woke the whole house. She managed to maneuver him out onto the porch roof.

"Get some rest, Frank," she whispered. "And please be more careful climbing around drunk. You're gonna get yourself killed."

Frank just waved and staggered off across the roof. Penny watched until he disappeared from sight, shaking her head. She latched the window tightly, making sure it couldn't be opened from outside.

Exhausted, she collapsed back into bed. Fear and adrenaline still pumped through her veins. As she finally drifted off, Penny wondered how many more secrets she could keep before reaching her breaking point.

*******

Over the next few weeks, Penny managed to stay out of trouble and under the radar. She turned down Ned's invitations to work on coding projects, not wanting him to see her injuries. Instead, she kept busy catching up on schoolwork and helping Fiona around the house. Her bruises faded, leaving no visible traces.

But inside, she felt the strain mounting. Keeping her secrets from the people she loved most was eating away at her. She grew quiet and withdrawn, her smiles never reaching her eyes.

Her siblings noticed the change.

"Alright, what's going on with you?" Debbie demanded one morning over breakfast. She studied Penny's wan face and the dark circles under her eyes. "And don't say 'nothing'. I'm not stupid."

Penny avoided Debbie's gaze, poking at her cereal. "Just stressed about finals. I'm fine."

Debbie's eyes narrowed, unconvinced, but she didn't push it.

Natasha and Fiona exchanged worried looks. They had tried talking to Penny, but she shut them down, insisting she could handle things. Watching her slowly unravel was agonizing.

"I'm really getting worried about her," Fiona confessed late one night as she and Natasha cleaned the kitchen.

"I know. She's shutting us out too," Natasha replied grimly. "It's only a matter of time before she snaps."

Fiona sighed, rinsing dishes with more force than necessary. "I just wish she'd let us help her. Keeping it all bottled up isn't healthy."

"I know, Fi. But we have to let Penny come to us when she's ready," Natasha said. "Pushing will only drive her away more."

Fiona knew Natasha was right. But it didn't make waiting any easier.

The breaking point came a week later.

Penny stumbled up the porch steps, barely making it inside before collapsing. Blood poured from multiple slashes across her chest and arms. Her makeshift Spider-Girl suit hung in shredded tatters.

She'd barely defeated the large frenzied lizard creature that appeared downtown. Only after it lay unconscious was she able to determine it had once been scientist Dr. Curt Connors. She left him webbed up with a note for police and S.H.I.E.L.D. But the creature had done serious damage first.

Penny barely made it up the staircase before a wave of dizziness sent her crashing to her knees. Voices shouted her name. Hurried footsteps pounded down the hall. Her siblings' worried faces swam around her just as everything went black.

**

Penny drifted awake some time later. She was in her bed dressed in clean pajamas, her wounds carefully bandaged. Early morning light filtered through the curtains.

The door creaked open and Natasha slipped in carrying a tray. "Hey, you're awake," she said with a relieved smile. "How are you feeling?"

Penny gingerly sat up, wincing. "Sore. What happened?"

"You passed out from blood loss after dragging yourself home barely alive," Natasha said. She set the tray on the nightstand - soup, tea and pain meds.

Penny nodded as it came back to her. "Shit...the others? Do they know?"

"We told them you got jumped and mugged again. You're pretty banged up, but nothing life-threatening."

Penny exhaled, rubbing her temples. "Shit, I'm really sorry Tasha. I never wanted any of you to see me like that."

Natasha perched on the bed beside her. "It's okay, Pen. I'm just glad you're alive. We were terrified."

She brushed a strand of hair from Penny's face. "But no more secrets, okay? This is getting dangerous. Let us help you figure this out."

Penny's throat tightened with emotion. She just nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

A knock at the door made them both jump. Ian poked his head in hesitantly. "Hey, can I come in?"

At Penny's nod, he entered and hurried over to the bed. "Jesus, Pen, you really scared us this time."

His voice shook slightly. He gently touched her bandaged arm. "Please tell me who did this to you. We're worried sick."

The lie stuck in Penny's throat. She glanced helplessly at Natasha.

"Ian, why don't you let her rest?" Natasha suggested gently. "We can talk about this later."

Ian looked like he might argue, but finally relented with a sigh. "Yeah, okay. I'm just glad you're in one piece," he said, giving Penny's hand a squeeze. "Get some more rest, sis."

He left, shutting the door behind him. Penny slumped back against the pillows, emotionally exhausted.

Natasha eyed her sympathetically. "I know it's a lot right now, Pen. But we're here for you, okay? All of us. Don't forget that."

She stood to go. At the door, she hesitated. "Try and eat something. Fiona's been stress cooking all night. Oh, and Frank's on a bender, so at least he won't bother you."

Despite everything, Penny huffed a weary laugh. Their father never changed.

Alone again, she picked at the soup and tea, managing a few bites. Her spider healing had kicked in, but she still felt sore and utterly drained.

Yet she also felt the slightest spark of hope. Maybe, just maybe, she truly wasn't as alone in this as she thought.

**

Over the next few days, her siblings constantly checked on her, bringing food, games, and comfort. To Penny's relief, they didn't push for answers she couldn't give. Just having them close without judgment was enough for now.

Natasha and Fiona remained wary but hopeful that this incident would compel Penny to accept more support.

"She's letting her guard down a little at least," Fiona pointed out. "That's progress."

"It's a start," Natasha agreed. "But there's still a long road ahead."

A week later, Penny finally felt strong enough to return to school. She skipped most of her morning classes, not yet ready to deal with the chaos and noise of so many people.

By lunchtime, she felt prepared to brave the cafeteria. She slid into her usual empty table, noticing Ned's absence with a pang of guilt. She'd ignored his concerned texts for days.

"Thought you'd skipped town, Gallagher."

Penny cringed at the grating voice. She looked up to see Flash Thompson smirking down at her, flanked by his usual posse of followers.

"Maybe hoped you'd finally gotten the message and offed yourself," Flash continued. "Would've done everyone a favor."

His sycophants laughed. Penny stared down at her tray, willing herself not to react.

Flash slammed his hands on the table, leaning close to her face. "What's wrong, dickwad? Not gonna say anything? I'm just speaking the truth."

He grinned nastily. "No one wants a freak like you around. You'll always be little Peter Gallagher pretending to be something you're not."

The plastic fork in Penny's hand snapped in half. Rage boiled up inside her. She could flip Flash across the room in seconds with her superstrength.

But she couldn't reveal herself, not even to shut him up. She trembled with the effort of holding back, knuckles white.

Sensing he was getting to her, Flash pressed harder. "Admit it. You're just desperate for attention. Can't get it the normal way so you pretend to be a chick. It's pathetic."

Suddenly, a tray slammed down across from Penny. "That's enough, Flash."

She glanced up in surprise to see her brother, Lip, glowering at the bully, fists clenched. Behind him stood Ian and Carl, her other brothers, looking equally furious. A nervous hush fell over the cafeteria.

Flash looked taken aback for a second but quickly sneered. "Stay out of this, pussy Lip. Just having a chat with the freak here."

In a blur, Lip grabbed Flash by the shirt and slammed him against the wall. "Shut your goddamn mouth before I shut it for you!" he snarled.

Flash just laughed derisively. "Gonna let your brothers fight your battles for you, Penis?"

Ian grabbed Flash in a headlock before he could react. "Say her name, asshole," Ian ordered in a low dangerous voice.

As Flash sputtered for air, Carl got in his face. "Call my sister that again. I fucking dare you."

Lip finally released Flash, shoving him contemptuously to the floor. Flash's friends had already fled. "Come on, guys, he's not worth it."

Lip turned to Penny. "You alright, sis?"

Penny could only nod, shocked speechless. Lip squeezed her shoulder before following Ian and Carl out of the silent cafeteria.

Penny sat frozen, heart pounding. Slowly, chatter resumed around her. She caught whispers of "psycho Gallaghers" and "don't mess with that family." For once, she didn't mind their notorious reputation.

A flutter of paper landed on her tray. Penny unfolded it to see a short scrawled note.

Heard what happened. Meet Ian & I under the bleachers after school at 3. We'll make sure that asshole never bothers you again.

-Mickey

Penny quickly refolded the note, making sure no teachers had seen it. She knew she should probably tell Ian not to start anything. But a smaller, vengeful part of her liked the idea of Flash finally getting what he deserved.

At 3pm sharp, she slipped out to the football field. Ian and Mickey were waiting under the bleachers, smoking and passing a flask back and forth. They quickly stubbed out their cigarettes when Penny approached.

"What's this about, guys?" she asked warily.

Ian cracked his knuckles, blue eyes blazing. "We're going to find Flash after school and teach him a lesson about respect."

Mickey tossed the flask to Penny. "Douchebag's had this coming for a long time. No one talks to our girl that way."

Penny took a swig of the bitter liquor before passing it back, steeling her nerves. "Just promise me you won't kill him?"

Ian's mouth curved in a cold smile. "No promises." He pulled a wicked-looking switchblade from his pocket. "But we'll try not to...permanently damage him."

Twenty minutes later, they spotted Flash leaving school alone. Before Penny could talk herself out of it, Ian handed her a black ski mask. "Put this on. Let's go."

They circled around, quickly surrounding Flash near the backlot. He looked around wildly but it was too late. Ian's fist collided with his jaw, sending him sprawling. Mickey followed up with a vicious kick to the ribs.

They dragged Flash behind the school, well out of sight. He sputtered and begged as they slammed him face first into a dumpster. Penny hung back, heart racing. This was assault - she should stop it immediately.

But her pent up rage overpowered her rational thoughts. She watched coldly as Ian and Mickey pummeled every inch of Flash they could reach, taunting him all the while.

"Not so tough now, are you?" Ian mocked, delivering another brutal punch.

When Flash merely whimpered, Mickey grabbed his hair, wrenching his head up. "Apologize. Mean it, or I start breaking bones."

"S-sorry," Flash choked out through his busted mouth.

Ian drove a knee into his stomach. "Sorry who?"

"S-sorry...Penny," Flash wheezed. "Please, I'm sorry..."

Ian scoffed in disgust and hurled him to the pavement. Flash didn't try to get up.

Penny finally found her voice. "He's had enough, guys. We should get out of here."

Mickey scowled, clearly not satisfied, but Ian put a restraining hand on his shoulder. "She's right. Let's go." He spit on Flash's crumpled form. "Don't you ever go near my sister again."

They slipped out the back way, peeling off their masks once safely away. Adrenaline still coursed through Penny's veins.

Ian gripped her shoulder. "You okay?"

Penny thought a moment, then gave a nod. "Yeah. I'm okay." To her surprise, it was the truth. The bitter knot of anger she'd carried for so long had disappeared, leaving her feeling almost light.

Ian pulled her into a fierce hug. "I meant what I said, you know. No one messes with my family."

Penny clung to him tightly. For the first time in forever, she felt a glimmer of hope that things could get better.

**

After the incident with Flash, Penny's siblings gave her space, sensing she would talk when ready. To their relief, the dark cloud over her seemed to lift.

But Natasha and Fiona noticed she snuck out more as Spider-Girl. They said nothing, trusting she would be careful. And she was - tracking criminals, stopping muggings, helping the lost and homeless. She even left notes for the police to find the perpetrators neatly gift-wrapped in webs.

If her injuries over the past weeks bothered her, she didn't let on. The Gallaghers could only hope this meant she was being more cautious about picking her battles.

Two weeks later, Penny returned home from school in higher spirits than usual. She bounded through the door, greeting her siblings with a grin. Seeing her smile so genuinely for the first time in forever lifted a weight from their shoulders.

"What's got you so chipper?" Lip teased, ruffling Penny's hair.

She ducked away playfully. "What, I can't just be in a good mood?"

Frank suddenly appeared in the doorway, reeking as always. "There's my troublemaker! Get over here."

Before Penny could react, he wrapped her in a sloppy bear hug. She struggled free, gagging at the overpowering stench.

"Jesus, Frank, you smell like you drank the whole bar," she coughed, retreating a safe distance.

Frank just cackled. "May have indulged a bit. But that's the joy of youth - no regrets!"

He snatched the open beer from Lip's hand and took a swig. Lip rolled his eyes but didn't bother fighting it. Arguing with a wasted Frank was useless.

"C'mon, Frank, give me that," Fiona said firmly, reaching for the beer. "I think you've had plenty."

"Don't be like that, baby girl." Frank evaded her grasp, spilling beer down his front. "Your father just wants to bond with his family!"

"You can bond with us when you're sober," Fiona shot back. She herded him firmly toward the door. "Go walk it off."

Frank grumbled but allowed himself to be led outside. Fiona returned shaking her head. "He gets worse every day. How he's still standing is a mystery."

"Liquor and stubbornness, that's all that keeps him going," Lip muttered.

Their antics with Frank briefly distracted the siblings, giving Penny an opportunity to slip away upstairs unseen. She shut her bedroom door and peeled off her long sleeves, revealing the web shooters attached to her wrists.

After weeks of design and failed prototypes, she'd finally perfected the bio-cable formula. Together with her web slingers the shooters gave her rapid mobility to swing between rooftops and ensnare criminals.

Penny carefully stashed her latest Spider-Girl suit upgrade in its hiding spot. She was dying to try it out on patrol but didn't want to arouse more suspicion.

Voices echoed from downstairs followed by the slamming door - Frank returning from his forced sobering walk. Penny crept halfway down the stairs, eavesdropping as Frank stumbled back into the living room, still drunk but now belligerent.

"Ungrateful brats, all of you!" he was yelling, jabbing a finger at the siblings gathered around. "I give you everything and this is the thanks I get!"

Fiona crossed her arms. "Give us everything? That's a laugh. You don't do shit. Nat & I can barely keep this family fed and the lights on thanks to you."

"Don't sass me, girl!" Frank shouted. "My house, my kids, my rules!"

"Some father you are," Lip said scornfully. "You're never around sober long enough to be a dad."

Frank's face turned an ugly shade of purple. "Everything I do is for this family! You'd all be lost without me." He swayed, almost losing his balance. "I'm the backbone of this goddamn family!"

Having heard enough, Penny slipped outside, letting the screen door slam behind her. Frank's spluttering tirade faded as she crossed the unkempt yard and climbed onto the roof. She closed her eyes, letting the faint breeze cool her simmering anger.

How could Frank not see what a worthless father he was? He drifted in and out of their lives on a whim, showing up only when he needed something. She and her siblings had long ago stopped seeing him as "Dad", and instead see him as "Frank", the man who happens to be their dad.

Lost in thought, Penny didn't notice she was no longer alone until a voice spoke up.

"Pretty nice view, huh?"

She jumped, turning to see Ian settling beside her on the roof ledge.

"Shit, you scared me," Penny muttered, pulse racing. "Make some noise next time."

"Sorry," Ian chuckled. He held out a joint. "Want a hit? Takes the edge off dealing with Frank."

Penny waved it off. "No thanks. Still gotta patrol tonight."

Ian's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "This vigilante stuff...it's about more than just wanting to help people, isn't it? It's like it's part of you."

Penny avoided his probing gaze, picking at a hole in her jeans. She wanted so badly to confide in him, but fear still held her back.

Ian bumped her shoulder gently. "You don't have to tell me anything you're not ready to. But I meant what I said about having your back. Whenever you're ready."

Penny glanced up to see only sincerity and support in Ian's face. Her last lingering doubts melted away.

"Just promise you won't freak out?" she said finally.

Ian mimed zipping his lips.

Taking a deep breath, Penny quickly scaled the side of the house and crawled upside down across the underside of the porch roof. She peered cautiously down at Ian. "So, you're right. It's more than just me being a simple vigilante. I may have these spider powers..."

Ian's eyes bugged. "Holy shit!" He leapt down from the roof, gaping up at her. "How the hell...when did you..."

He seemed at a loss for words. Penny crawled down and landed lightly in front of him.

"I was bitten by this genetically enhanced spider at that field trip to Oscorp last year, and it gave me these crazy abilities," she explained. "I wanted to tell you sooner, but it sounded too insane. Only Fiona and Natasha know."

Ian ran both hands down his face, looking dazed. "This is...I mean...fuck. My little sister's an actual superhero?"

Penny shrugged, bracing herself for shouting or accusations. But to her surprise, Ian let out an incredulous laugh.

"Unbelievable. Well, it's sure as hell a better explanation than you suddenly taking up parkour."

He shook his head in amazement. "Man, Pen, the stuff you've probably seen and done with these powers..."

"It's been insane," Penny admitted. "I like to help people, but it gets dangerous. I can handle it though."

Ian studied her, brow furrowed. "Maybe let your big brother help watch your back when shit gets heavy? You don't have to do this alone."

Penny chewed her lip. Having Ian know her secret would make life easier. But it also put him at risk if anyone uncovered Spider-Girl's identity.

Sensing her hesitation, Ian squeezed her shoulder. "You don't have to decide now. Just promise you'll really think about it?"

Penny sighed but finally nodded. Ian pulled her into a tight hug. "Whatever you decide, I've got you, sis. Powers or not, you're still just Penny."

Penny clung to him, finally feeling the fear and heavy burden of secrecy lift from her heart.

**

Unfortunately, Penny didn't have long to enjoy having one more person who knew her secret. Trouble caught up with her quicker than expected.

A few nights later, she slipped out on patrol, making sure to avoid Ian's notice. She had just helped the police apprehend some armed robbers when her spider sense prickled unexpectedly. Before she could react, a black van screeched up beside her. The doors flew open and several armed tactical officers leapt out, weapons raised.

"Spider-Girl, get down on the ground! Now!"

Penny froze in dismay. How had she been so careless? These were clearly not normal cops.

Making a split second decision, she fired a web and swung up out of their reach. Bullets whizzed past her as she fled across the rooftops. Her heart hammered wildly.

After several blocks she dropped into an alley to catch her breath. Voices and footsteps pounded past. Penny pressed deeper into the shadows, holding herself perfectly still until the sounds faded.

Who were those men, and how did they know her identity? She'd been so cautious about hiding her powers. A chill ran through Penny as she realized just how close she'd come to being unmasked or worse.

Moving stealthily through side streets and yards, she managed to slip back inside the Gallagher house unseen. But she knew it wasn't over. Those men would be watching for Spider-Girl now.

Penny paced her room, thoughts racing. She had to tell Fiona and Natasha what happened. But it was nearly 3am - everyone was asleep.

A faint creak outside her door made Penny freeze. She crept over, spider senses tingling. Gripping the knob, she wrenched it open, tackling the figure standing there.

A startled yelp nearly made her leap back. "Ian! What the hell?" she hissed.

"Jesus Christ...twice in one night you scare me now?" Ian groaned, rubbing his head where it smacked the floor.

Penny hauled him to his feet. "Why were you lurking outside my room?"

"I was waiting up for you," Ian admitted sheepishly. "Wanted to make sure you got back safe."

Penny exhaled, calming her racing pulse. "Sorry, you surprised me. It's been a rough night..." She hesitated, debating how much to tell him.

Ian instantly looked concerned. "What happened out there?"

Penny chewed her lip. "Some tactical team tried to grab me. Don't know who they were but they knew I was Spider-Girl. I barely got away."

Ian's eyes widened in alarm. "Shit. What do we do?"

Hearing him say "we" made Penny immensely grateful she'd told him her secret. She quickly explained about needing to tell Natasha and Fiona.

Ian agreed. "We'll figure this out, Pen. Come on."

They crept downstairs. Penny gently shook Fiona awake while Ian got Natasha. Both were instantly on alert when they heard what happened.

"Any clue who these men were?" Natasha asked, green eyes sharp. When Penny shook her head, she cursed in Russian.

"Could it have been Ross?" Fiona suggested hesitantly. "Trying to get powered people to sign that registration act?"

Natasha considered it. "Possible. I'll contact some old S.H.I.E.L.D allies, see what I can learn." She put a hand on Penny's shoulder. "It's going to be okay, Pen. We'll handle this."

Penny tried to feel reassured. But she had a gut feeling the danger was just beginning.

**

In the following days, Penny kept a low profile, not patrolling as Spider-Girl. She half expected those tactical agents to track her down at school or home. But so far they seemed to have lost her trail.

At Natasha's insistence, she, Fiona and Penny met after school one day to discuss strategies for throwing off potential pursuers.

"I'll reach out to some trusted allies, see if they can dig up intel on who these men were," Natasha said. She hesitated, seeming to debate something internally.

"But it may be wise to prepare a backup plan...in case staying here puts the family at too great a risk."

Penny's chest tightened anxiously. The thought of leaving her siblings and life here terrified her. But she knew Natasha was right - if it kept everyone safe, she would do it.

Sensing Penny's inner turmoil, Fiona squeezed her hand. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, okay? For now we'll just lay low and gather information."

Penny clung to that spark of hope. Maybe this would all blow over. Maybe she wouldn't have to abandon the only real home she'd ever known.

For a few days, things seemed to calm down. Penny allowed herself cautious optimism that remaining in Chicago could work. Until a run-in with Monica shattered that fragile hope.

Penny hadn't seen their wayward mother in over a year when Monica suddenly blew back into town. She arrived unannounced one morning, breezing through the door in a whirlwind of chaotic energy.

"My babies! Oh, how I've missed you all so much," she exclaimed, draping herself across various irritated siblings.

"We were doing just fine without you," Fiona said coldly, ducking away from Monica's perfume-choked embrace.

Monica seemed oblivious to the lukewarm welcome. "Look at you, my lovely girl," she fawned, cupping Fiona's face in her hands. "And Lip! So handsome."

She pinched Lip's cheeks before turning to Penny. "Oh, and Pete, look at you! Getting tall."

Penny tensed. "It's Penny, actually. Not Pete."

Monica's smile dimmed slightly. "Right, right, sorry. Hard to keep all these changes straight."

An awkward pause followed. Monica quickly plastered her grin back on.

"So where's Frank at? I've got such a big surprise for him!"

"With any luck, face down in a ditch," Lip said bluntly. At Monica's affronted look, he rolled his eyes. "Come on, no one wants him here. Why don't you both just take off again? Works best for everyone."

Monica huffed indignantly. "What a cruel thing to say! Frank's still your father."

"Some father," Fiona muttered. She grabbed Monica's arm firmly. "Look, we appreciate you stopping by, but we've got things handled here. So don't let us stop you both from taking off again."

She herded a protesting Monica right back out the door. Monica called plaintively over her shoulder, "At least let me see Liam before I go!"

Fiona folded her arms. "Last time you were here, you dumped him with a stranger so you could run off and party. I don't think so."

She nudged Monica down the steps. "Don't come back this time. I mean it."

Fiona firmly shut the door on her cries of protest. She exhaled heavily, leaning against it for support. The siblings all looked relieved to see the back of Monica again.

"Good riddance," Carl muttered. "She always brings trouble."

"Maybe going on the run would be the best. Then we wouldn't have to deal with Monica." Penny says, half joking.

Everyone laughs, and they return to their usual routines, already dismissing Monica from their minds. Only Penny lingered in the hallway, stung by her mother's dismissal despite herself.

Needing air, she slipped out to the porch. Lost in thought, she didn't hear the screen door creak open behind her.

"Well, if it isn't little Pansy. Or Penny or whatever."

Penny stiffened. Frank swaggered over to lean against the railing, reeking of his usual stench.

"Did Monica leave already?" he asked disappointedly. "Damn, was hoping to tap that again for old time's sake."

Penny grimaced in disgust. "Only you would want that trainwreck back."

Frank cackled, taking a swig from his flask. "Ah, don't be jealous. You kids have never appreciated your mother."

"You mean the mother who's never around?" Penny shot back. Frank merely shrugged, unbothered.

Penny shook her head bitterly. Why was she even surprised? Frank and Monica deserved each other's crappy company.

She turned to head back inside when Frank spoke again. "Hang on, got a little something for you."

He fished in his pocket and pulled out a smaller switchblade, flicking it open. "Since you didn't want that bigger switchblade, maybe this'll do? Something your size."

Penny took a wary step back. "What makes you think I want that, Frank?"

"A dangerous world out there for someone like you," Frank said seriously, swaying a bit as he held out the knife. "Gotta be prepared to protect yourself."

"I don't need your help!" Penny snapped. "I can handle myself just fine."

Frank's mouth twisted in an ugly sneer. "Still pretending to be something you're not? It's time to grow up already."

He swayed into Penny's space. She backed against the railing to avoid his stench.

"Admit it - this is all just for attention 'cause no girl would look twice at you," Frank spat. "You're really just pathetic little Peter desperate to be something else."

Penny trembled, hands curling into fists. "Fuck you, Frank. You don't know shit about me."

She shoved past him angrily. Frank called after her, "You'll never be a real girl!"

Tears stung Penny's eyes but she refused to let him see how deeply his words cut. She slammed the door and hurried upstairs before the others could see her distress.

In her room, she sank onto her bed, wrapping her arms around herself tightly as she fought back sobs. She knew Frank was a spiteful drunk. But his cruel words echoed her worst insecurities. What if she really was just playing pretend?

A soft knock interrupted her spiraling thoughts. She frantically tried to collect herself.

"It's open," she called hoarsely.

The door cracked and Fiona peeked in. "Hey. Just wanted to check on you after..." She trailed off, frowning when she saw Penny's tear-streaked face.

"Oh honey, what's wrong?" She immediately sat and pulled Penny into her arms.

Penny clung to her, finally letting the hurt and fear spill out. Fiona just held her, slowly rocking and making soothing noises until her sobs quieted to occasional hiccups.

"Shh, just let it out. I've got you," Fiona murmured, gently stroking her hair. She waited until Penny's breathing steadied before asking again, "Do you want to tell me what's going on?"

Haltingly, Penny told her about Frank's confrontation, tears welling up again as she recounted his vicious words.

Fiona's expression darkened. "That fucking asshole. I'm so sorry, sweetie." She tilted Penny's chin up. "You know he's dead wrong though, right? That was just drunken cruelty, not truth."

When Penny just looked down uncertainly, Fiona grasped her shoulders. "Pen, look at me. You are my sister. Frank doesn't get to decide that or tell you who you are."

She gently thumbed away a stray tear from Penny's cheek. "We love you for exactly who you are. And nothing will ever change that."

A sob caught in Penny's throat. No matter how many times they reassured her, that persistent fear still clung inside her.

"What if he's right though?" she whispered shakily. "What if I never really fit or belong anywhere?"

Fiona's heart ached at seeing her sister so distraught and lost. She knew Penny struggled daily against a world that wanted her to conform. But she was still just a kid forced to grow up too fast.

"Oh, Pen. You're already perfect exactly how you are," Fiona said fiercely. "This family knows that even if assholes like Frank can't see it. Please don't ever doubt yourself."

She pulled Penny close again, rocking her gently. "I've got you, sis. We've all got you. No matter what happens, you'll always have a home with us."

Penny finally stopped fighting the reassuring warmth of her sister's embrace. She let herself be comforted, soaking up the unconditional love surrounding her.

In that moment, she knew without a shred of doubt that walking away would shatter her world. However dangerous things got, leaving her family behind was never an option. This was her home, the only one that had ever truly accepted her.

She could only pray that by some miracle, it didn't have to come to that.

**

After her confrontation with Frank, Penny became even more withdrawn and on edge. She constantly fretted that danger was lurking right around the corner.

Her siblings noticed the change. They gave her space, sensing she would come to them when ready. Even Ian didn't push for details during their occasional shared smokes.

But late one night, Penny reached her breaking point. Curled alone in her dark room, her anxious thoughts spiraled out of control. The walls seemed to creep closer, trapping her. Gasping for air, she stumbled downstairs and out the back door.

Cool night air washed over her, but it wasn't enough. The panic rose until she thought her chest might explode.

Suddenly Natasha was there, gripping her shoulders firmly. "Breathe, little spider. Just breathe."

Penny clung to her, sucking in huge gulps of air as Natasha murmured reassurances in Russian.

Finally the attack subsided, leaving Penny drained and shaky. She crumpled onto the steps, hugging herself tightly.

Natasha sat beside her. "Talk to me, Pen. What's going on?"

Haltingly, Penny confided her overwhelming fears about the dangers of being exposed and having to abandon the only real home she'd known.

Natasha listened intently, green eyes sad but understanding. When Penny finally finished, she pulled her close.

"I know how scary and uncertain this feels. But we will find a way through. You're not alone."

She tilted Penny's chin up. "I need you to trust me, little spider. Let me worry about the dangers ahead. Your job is being strong for the others."

Penny sighed, leaning into her sister's steady strength. "I'll try, Tasha. I just hope we don't run out of time."

Natasha's expression was grave. "Whatever happens, we'll face it together as a family. I swear to you."

Penny clung to that vow, praying Natasha was right.

**

Over the next week, Penny tried her best to act normal and hide her worries, not wanting to scare the others. By unspoken agreement, Natasha and Fiona didn't bring up the looming threat either. The Gallagher house regained some of its usual chaotic energy.

But one evening, Penny arrived home from a supervised patrol with Ian to find the mood abruptly changed. Her siblings clustered in the living room, speaking in low tense voices.

Fiona hurried over when Penny entered. "There you are. We were getting worried."

Penny glanced around uneasily. "What's going on? Did something happen?"

The others exchanged nervous looks. Finally Lip sighed. "Look Pen, we need to talk. All of us."

Penny's chest tightened. Natasha gave a small nod when Penny glanced at her anxiously. The time had come to tell them everything.

The Gallaghers settled around the crowded living room. Penny chewed her lip nervously, unsure where to start.

Sensing her unease, Debbie spoke up first. "Whatever you need to say, don't stress. We're here for you."

The others murmured agreement. Buoyed by their support, Penny took a deep breath.

"So I haven't exactly been honest lately about coming home late with these injuries..."

Haltingly she told them the full truth - the spider bite, her powers, becoming Spider-Girl. Her siblings listened intently, eyes growing wider with each revelation.

"You mean all this time, you've had actual superpowers?" Carl exclaimed.

Debbie smacked his arm. "Let her finish!"

Penny explained about the men sent to track her down and the dangers of being exposed. "I need you guys to be really careful in case anyone comes snooping around about me or Spider Girl."

She braced herself for their anger and accusations. Instead, Fiona reached out and squeezed her hand.

"Jesus, Pen. Why didn't you tell us sooner so we could help?"

"We're family. We want to keep you safe," Debbie added earnestly.

Penny's eyes watered with relief. "You guys aren't freaked out that I've been lying and running around with powers?"

"Hell no, that's awesome!" Carl said with a grin.

"Of course we're on your side, dummy," Lip teased gently. He ruffled Penny's hair. "You've still got a lot to learn though. That's what big brothers are for."

Overwhelmed by their support, it took Penny a minute to find her voice again. "Thank you. All of you. It's been hard feeling so alone with this."

"Not alone anymore," Ian said firmly. He pulled Penny into a fierce hug. "We'll get through this the Gallagher way."

Their confidence bolstered Penny's flagging spirit. United with her family, she felt ready to face whatever dangers came next.

**

For the next week, calm prevailed. Penny allowed herself to hope the immediate threat had passed. She joined Ian and Mickey on lookout while Natasha and Fiona discreetly investigated leads. Her siblings carried on as usual, careful not to arouse suspicion.

Of course, the brief peace couldn't last.

Penny was in her room tweaking her web slingers when shouting erupted outside, followed by squealing tires. She peered out to see a black SUV parked in front. Before she could react, the front door splintered open.

Heavy boots pounded up the stairs. Penny's blood turned to ice. This was it. The day she'd dreaded had arrived.

Penny's spider-sense blared as the footsteps thundered up the stairs. She snatched up her web shooters and mask just as her bedroom door smashed open.

Several heavily armed, masked men poured in. Penny fired webs at two, sending them crashing together. But more forced their way inside. She dodged and wove, using her agility to avoid their stun batons.

"Stand down, Spider-Girl!" one ordered. "Don't make this difficult."

Penny responded by kicking him square in the chest, firing more webs. "Get out of my house!" she yelled fiercely.

The men seemed prepared for her powers. They swarmed Penny, grappling her arms. She thrashed and kicked, adrenaline surging.

A scream of rage made everyone freeze. Suddenly Fiona was there, hands blazing with fiery magic. The men shouted in alarm as she hurled spheres of energy, blasting them backward.

"Get your hands off my sister!" Fiona snarled, emerald eyes flashing. More men poured up the stairs. Fiona flung spell after spell but the fight was hopeless.

Penny met her sister’s determined gaze. "Fi, stop! Just let them take me!"

The desperation in her voice made Fiona falter. Before she could react, stun batons hit her from all sides, electricity arcing through her body.

"No!" Penny screamed hoarsely. She struggled wildly as Fiona collapsed. Heavy blows finally subdued Penny. Her hands were forced into suppression cuffs, cutting off her web shooters.

Roughly hustled downstairs, Penny blinked through tears at the disaster zone. Furniture was smashed, walls charred from Fiona's magic. Ian, Lip, and Mickey were sprawled dazed on the floor, surrounded by armed men. Penny breaths out a sigh of relief, grateful for the fact that her younger siblings, Debbie, Carl, and Liam were all still at school.

Ian stirred, struggling to rise. A guard kicked him down. "Stay there, boy."

Penny thrashed against her captors. "Don't hurt them! Please!"

The guard smirked, keeping his boot firmly planted on Ian's back. Penny trembled helplessly. This was her worst nightmare.

Hoarse shouting outside made the men tense. Their leader glanced out the window. "Shit, local LEOs incoming. Move out!"

The SUV engines roared to life. In a blur, Penny was dragged outside. She desperately craned her neck, catching one last glimpse of her siblings' battered faces watching helplessly as she disappeared into the vehicle.

The door slammed shut. Penny huddled on the floor, wrists throbbing from the suppression cuffs digging in. Her ragged breaths came in gulps between muffled sobs.

This wasn't happening. It couldn't be real. She squeezed her eyes shut, willing it all to be some horrible nightmare.

But the rumbling engine and armored men surrounding her were frighteningly real. Penny's anguished thoughts raced. Where were they taking her? What would happen to her family now?

A sudden boom outside made the SUV swerve violently. More explosions rocked the vehicle. The men cursed, peering out the windows. Penny struggled upright, limbs weak with relief and disbelief.

Natasha. It had to be.

The SUV accelerated, weaving erratically amidst the bombardment striking all around it. Penny was thrown about the back as the driver swerved and hit the brakes.

With a final earth-shaking blast, the SUV flipped onto its side, skidding to a smoking halt. Dazed, Penny tried to brace herself as armed men crawled out. Loud pops of gunfire followed.

After endless tense minutes, the cargo door wrenched open. Penny winced at the sudden light, eyes widening when she saw Natasha crouched there.

The Black Widow looked lethal in dark tactical gear, widow’s bite bracelets crackling with energy. Her green eyes softened slightly at the sight of Penny.

“Come on, little spider,” she said urgently, pulling Penny from the wreckage. “More will be coming.”

Too overwhelmed with relief to speak, Penny clung to her sister as Natasha swiftly cut off the suppression cuffs. She led them away from the smoking vehicle into side streets. Only when they'd gone several blocks did Natasha stop.

She quickly looked Penny over for injuries. “Are you alright, Pen?”

Penny couldn’t hold back the sob that escaped. Natasha instantly wrapped her in a fierce protective embrace.

“Shh, I’ve got you now,” she soothed. “You’re safe.”

They stayed like that until Penny’s heaving sobs quieted to occasional hiccups. She swiped at her tear-streaked face, willing her pounding heart to slow down.

Natasha kept an arm securely around Penny's shoulders as they hurried through alleyways towards one of Natasha's safe houses. Penny's thoughts spiraled with the shock of what just happened.

"H-how did you find me so fast?" she finally managed to ask, voice still shaky.

Natasha's mouth formed a grim line. "I've had suspicions we were being watched. Saw the SUVs arrive and put a tracker on one just in case."

Her eyes flashed with anger. "I swear I'll make them regret ever coming near our family."

Penny leaned into her sister's solid strength, beyond grateful to have Natasha on their side.

At the nondescript apartment, Natasha quickly secured the door and windows before pulling Penny close again.

"Are you hurt anywhere?" she asked, eyes scanning Penny critically for any overlooked injuries.

Penny shook her head, wrapping her arms around herself. "I'm okay. But the others...oh god, when those men were hurting them..." Her breath hitched on a quiet sob.

Natasha smoothed back her hair gently. "Shh, just try and breathe. They're going to be alright."

But Penny could see the worry in her eyes. Natasha squeezed her shoulder. "Stay here and rest. I need to go check on them."

Penny instantly looked panicked. "No, please don't leave! What if those men come back?" She hated feeling so scared and clingy, but couldn't bear Natasha leaving.

Natasha hesitated, hating to distress Penny further. "Pen, I have to make sure the others are safe. I'll be as quick as I can, I promise."

Seeing the fear in Penny's eyes, she sighed. "Okay, we'll go together. But you need to follow my lead and do exactly as I say. Understood?"

Penny nodded, willing to agree to anything that kept them together. Natasha handed her a dark hoodie. "Put this on and keep the hood up."

Moving stealthily through the streets, they approached the Gallagher house from the rear. Penny's breath caught at seeing the wrecked backdoor hanging off its hinges.

She started to rush forward, but Natasha yanked her back. "Wait," she said sharply. "We need to assess the situation."

After a quick perimeter check, she gave Penny the all-clear. They slipped inside, moving cautiously through the ruined interior.

Penny choked back a sob at the destruction. What if her siblings were badly hurt...or worse?

Before she could spiral into panic, Ian suddenly appeared, gripping a bat. His face went slack with relief. "Oh thank god!"

He grabbed Penny in a bruising hug. She clung to him, tears wetting his shirt.

Over Ian's shoulder, she saw Fiona hurrying over, the rest of their siblings behind her. They looked banged up but alive.

Penny broke from Ian's embrace to hug Fiona fiercely. "I was so scared," she choked out.

"Shh, I know," Fiona soothed, face pressed into Penny's hair. She exchanged a worried look with Natasha over Penny's head.

After checking the rest of the house, Ian activated the security system he and Natasha had installed. The Gallaghers gathered in the least damaged area of the living room, while Natasha quickly swept for bugs.

"We're clear," she finally said. "But keep voices down just in case."

Everyone crowded close, keeping Penny in the middle. She clutched Ian and Fiona’s hands tightly.

“Did they hurt any of you badly?” she asked anxiously, taking in their bruises and bandaged cuts.

Lip wiped a trickle of blood from his split brow. “We’ll live. More worried about you, sis. The hell did those psychos want?”

Penny chewed her lip. “Me and my powers, I think.” She looked down. “This is all my fault.”

“Hey, don’t even go there.” Ian tilted her chin up firmly. “We’re in this together now. We’ll keep each other safe.”

The others voiced loud agreement. Penny managed a small grateful smile at their solidarity.

Natasha quieted the chatter with a look. “We don’t have much time. I stalled them, but those men will regroup.”

Her expression was grave. “You all need to pack immediately. We’re getting us out of Chicago tonight, until further notice.”

Protests rose up. Natasha raised a hand sharply. “This isn’t up for debate. It’s not safe here.” Her tone left no room for argument.

The Gallaghers moved into action, packing emergency bags. Penny stuffed her Spider-Girl gear into her backpack with shaking hands. Natasha was right - staying was a death sentence now. But it still felt like a nightmare she couldn't wake from.

Within twenty minutes, they were piled into two vehicles Natasha determined were untraceable. Penny clung to Fiona in the backseat as they peeled out into the streets. She twisted around for a last glimpse of the only real home she’d ever known quickly disappearing behind them.

She hopes that Debbie, Carl, and Liam will be okay without them. Fiona mentioned earlier that she called V, Kev, and Svetlana, vaguely telling them that they all had to go, and that they need to take care of the three younger Gallagher siblings until they can come back. She didn't mention anything about informing MJ, Ned, or Mandy regarding their current situation.

Natasha drove the lead car expertly through the maze of streets, clearly following a pre-planned escape route. Penny kept her head down, hood pulled low.

They drove for hours, only stopping once for gas and supplies. Penny stared numbly out the window at the unfamiliar scenery rolling past, emotions swirling.

Fiona kept an arm securely around her. “We’re gonna be okay, Penny,” she murmured. “Together we can get through anything. Just try and rest.”

Penny doubted sleep would come, but emotional exhaustion eventually took over. She drifted in and out to murmured voices and passing headlights.

It was after midnight when they finally pulled up to an isolated farmhouse. Penny shuffled inside with the others, taking in the sparsely furnished interior.

It was a far cry from their chaotic home, but beggars couldn't be choosers. At least they were hidden for now.

“Get some sleep, all of you,” Natasha instructed gently. “We’ll figure out next steps in the morning.”

The Gallaghers passed out on couches and makeshift beds. Penny tossed fitfully before giving up. She found Natasha standing watch at the front window.

“You should rest too,” Penny said softly.

Natasha attempted a faint smile. “I will in a bit. Just making sure we weren’t followed.”

She pulled Penny into a one-armed hug. “How are you holding up?”

Penny bit her lip, tears threatening again. “I don’t know. This doesn’t feel real. You ever just wish you could start over?”

“More than you know, little spider,” Natasha said quietly. “But going back isn’t possible. We can only move forward.”

Penny sighed, leaning into her sister’s steady strength. She knew Natasha was right. The past was gone. Their only choice now was to stick together and forge a new path, wherever it led.

Morning came too quickly. Bleary-eyed, the Gallaghers gathered around the chipped kitchen table with mugs of instant coffee. The mood was tense.

“So what the hell do we do now?” Lip asked bluntly, breaking the silence.

“We need to lay low and gather intel on who those men were,” Natasha replied.

Mickey shook his head in disbelief. “Man, your life got fucked up fast, Gallagher. Spider powers ain’t all fun and games I guess.”

“We’ll figure this out,” Fiona said firmly before Penny could respond. “Just take it one day at a time.”

“Easy for you to say! You’re not the freak everyone’s after,” Penny shot back, voice cracking. She shoved away from the table and stormed outside.

The others looked helplessly at Natasha. She exhaled slowly. “Give her space. This is a huge adjustment.”

Fiona found Penny behind the barn, angrily throwing rocks. She sat beside her on an old crate until Penny’s frustrated energy burned out.

“I’m sorry I snapped,” she mumbled, sniffling and swiping at her eyes.

Fiona wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “Don’t apologize. You have every right to be upset.”

She smoothed back Penny’s hair gently. “I know everything feels scary and uncertain right now. But we’ll take it one day at a time, together. Okay?”

Penny managed a small nod. As long as she had her family, she told herself she could face whatever came next.

"I love you, Fi. You and Tasha are the best sisters I could've asked for." Penny says.

Fiona presses a kiss to Penny's forehead. "I love you too, Pen."

They stay outside for a while, leaning on each other for support.

Their first days in hiding crawled by at an agonizing pace. Penny hated being cooped up inside all day with nothing to do but stress. Her siblings tried distracting themselves with movies and half-hearted attempts at planning a more permanent living situation.

But the gloomy mood persisted. This dingy safe house was a temporary solution at best. The future remained frighteningly unclear.

Natasha spent hours reaching out to allies and contacts from her spy days, searching for clues about the tactical team. But it was slow, paranoid work digging for answers without exposing themselves.

Late one sleepless night, Penny found Natasha sitting alone on the sagging porch. She wordlessly sat beside her.

Natasha attempted a tired smile. “Can’t sleep either?”

Penny just shook her head. They sat without speaking for a few minutes, gazing up at the stars. A peaceful silence settled between them.

Finally Natasha spoke quietly. “I never wanted this for you. The life of secrecy, always looking over your shoulder...I know how much it weighs on you.”

Penny chewed her lip. “I just want things to be normal again. Well, as normal as they ever were anyway.” She attempted a weak chuckle.

Natasha wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “I know, Маленький паук. I’m trying to find a way through this, I promise.”

Penny leaned into her sister, finding comfort in her steady presence. They stayed like that for a long time, keeping watch over the silent safe house.

After two weeks of monotonous isolation, Penny finally reached her breaking point.

"I need some air," she declared one morning, pulling on her hoodie and heading for the door before anyone could object.

Fiona and Natasha exchanged worried looks. "Pen, it's not safe out there," Fiona protested.

But Penny kept going, frustration boiling over. "I can't just sit here staring at the same walls forever!"

Before they could stop her, she slipped out the door. Natasha made to follow, but Fiona caught her arm.

"Let her go. She needs space before she snaps." As much as it worried her, Fiona understood Penny's restlessness.

Outside, Penny wandered aimlessly across the fields until she found a small pond surrounded by trees. Ensuring she was alone, she quickly scaled a thick oak.

Settling on a high branch, Penny finally breathed easier. She basked in the feel of rough bark under her fingers and the earthy scent of leaves. The fresh air cleared some of the haze from her mind.

Gazing out at the peaceful landscape, Penny allowed herself a few minutes to pretend none of this was happening. That she was just a normal girl without a care in the world.

But she couldn't ignore reality for long. With a resigned sigh, Penny made her way back through the fields towards the house.

She slowed when she noticed two unfamiliar vehicles parked out front. Voices echoed from inside.

Penny crept to the side door, cracking it open. She glimpsed Natasha speaking intently with two men she didn't recognize. One was tall with greying brown hair, the other shorter with messy dark curls.

She strained to hear their conversation. "...found potential leads but we have to be discreet," the tall one was saying. "Ross has eyes everywhere now."

Penny's blood chilled at the mention of Thaddeus Ross. The government official that is hunting enhanced people. Had he found them somehow?

Before she could hear more, footsteps approached. Penny darted away from the door just as it opened.

"Pen? That you out here?" Ian called.

Penny emerged cautiously from behind the barn. "Yeah, just went for a quick walk. Who's here?"

Ian looked uneasy. "Come inside, we all need to talk."

Apprehensive, Penny followed him in. She hovered near the hallway, scrutinizing the two unfamiliar men now seated at the kitchen table with Natasha and Fiona.

Natasha beckoned Penny over. "It's alright. They're friends." She made brief introductions.

"This is Clint Barton and Bruce Banner. We work together when there are Avenger level threats."

Penny's eyes widened. She definitely recognized those names from the media coverage of the Avengers. Were they here to turn her over to Ross?

Sensing her tension, Bruce gave a kind smile. "It's nice to meet you, Penny. Nat's told us a lot about you."

Clint grinned. "Another spider, huh? We should swap battle stories sometime."

Penny studied the two Avengers curiously. As intimidating as it was meeting legends like Hawkeye and the Hulk, she was desperate for help making sense of this nightmare.

"So you can get information on the team that took me?" she asked hesitantly.

Clint nodded. "We have resources even Ross doesn't know about. We'll dig up whatever we can on these bastards."

His easy confidence made Penny feel a tiny bit lighter. Maybe they actually stood a chance here.

"What do you need from me?" she asked.

"For now, just lay low while we investigate," Bruce advised gently. "We know this is hard, but try to be patient."

Penny bit her lip, mustering her courage to ask the biggest question plaguing her. "Do you think we'll ever be able to go back home? To our family and friends?"

The adults exchanged uneasy looks. Finally Natasha met her gaze. "I hope so, Pen. I know it doesn't seem like it now, but situations change. We just have to be smart and careful."

Penny felt a small spark of hope at Natasha's words. As dangerous as Ross' forces were, surely he couldn't hunt them forever.

An unpleasant thought occurred to her. "Wait...does Ross go after family too?" Fear clutched her chest. "Oh god, what if he hurts Frank or Debbie or the others to get to me?"

"Easy, breathe," Natasha said firmly. "Ross won't connect them to Spider-Girl. I'll make sure of it."

Her tone left no room for doubt. Penny slowly exhaled, willing herself to believe Natasha could outmaneuver Ross. She had to trust her siblings were safe, even from her.

Hours later, long after Bruce and Clint departed with promises to be in touch, Penny lay awake thinking about everyone she left behind.

To her surprise, she found herself missing Frank. She would never have believed it, but their dysfunctional father was still family.

Exhausted but restless, she wandered into the living room. A few others were still up, voices subdued.

Penny perched on the arm of the couch beside Fiona. "Hey. Can't sleep either?"

Fiona shook her head with a tired smile. "Brain won't shut off I guess."

She studied Penny's pensive face. "You doing okay?"

Penny hesitated. "I was just thinking...I really miss Frank. How messed up is that?"

Fiona's eyes softened with understanding. "Not messed up at all. Despite everything, he's still our dad."

She sighed. "Honestly? I miss him too. Even his nonsense."

Penny felt immensely relieved she wasn't the only one. She saw similar wistful expressions on her other siblings’ faces. As dysfunctional as their family was, they still clung to each other.

"I miss V and Kev a lot too," Fiona added quietly. "It helps just picturing them at the Alibi like always."

"I fucking miss Mandy," Mickey spoke up gruffly. "Keep worrying she's gonna get herself locked up or worse without me around."

Lip lit a cigarette, taking a long drag. "I miss all those crazy assholes. Never thought I'd say it, but I'd give anything to hear Kev's stupid jokes again."

He shook his head ruefully. "This situation is so messed up."

Penny hesitated before asking Lip, “Could I maybe get one of those?”

Her siblings all turned to stare at her in surprise. Penny rarely smoked. But after the day’s emotions, she desperately craved the calming rush of nicotine.

Lip raised an eyebrow but handed her the cigarette pack without comment. Penny tapped one out, leaning in for him to light it.

She took a long drag, letting the smoke fill her lungs and dull her anxiety. No one spoke as she quietly finished the cigarette. For a few minutes, Penny could almost pretend everything was normal.

Over the next few days, Penny clung to the hope that the Avengers would find a way to end their exile. She constantly pestered Natasha for updates.

“Any news yet?” Penny asked one morning, hovered anxiously as Natasha finished a coded call.

Natasha shook her head, looking strained. “Nothing concrete yet. Whatever Ross did to cover his tracks, it's buried deep.”

Penny's heart sank, but she tried not to let it show. “Oh. Well, we knew it might take time.” She attempted an optimistic smile.

Natasha squeezed her shoulder. “We’ll get something soon, I’m sure of it. Just try to hang in there.”

Penny spent most of her time outside climbing trees or sneaking in web-slinging practice. The fresh air and exercise kept her sane.

One afternoon while reading in the hammock she’d strung up, Penny heard an unexpected commotion near the house. She crept to the edge of the trees for a better view.

A battered pickup truck was parked haphazardly out front. Frank Gallagher staggered out, looking around wildly.

“Where are ya, you ungrateful bastards?” he bellowed. “Come out and face me!”

Penny’s jaw dropped in disbelief. How the hell had Frank found them? This was a nightmare.

Her siblings flooded outside, clearly as shocked as she was. Frank jabbed a finger at them.

“There you are! Do you have any idea what you put me through running off like that?”

He took a swig from the open bottle in his hand, swaying unsteadily. Penny groaned, pressing deeper into the shadows. Trust Frank to track them down drunk.

“Jesus, Frank, how did you even get here?” Fiona demanded.

Frank cackled. “You think your old man can’t track his own kids down? I know you all too well.”

His face morphed into an exaggerated pout. “I come home and the whole place is trashed. No note, no nothing! You can’t just abandon your father like that!”

“You don’t seem too abandoned since you’re here,” Lip said dryly. “Did you ever think we don't want you around?”

A sobering hurt flashed across Frank’s face. “But...I’m your dad,” he said weakly.

When none of the kids moved to embrace him, his expression crumbled. He took a long swig from his bottle.

“Fine. I get the message,” he mumbled bitterly. “I’ll just be going then...”

He made a show of dragging himself back to the truck. Watching him look so dejected was too much for Penny.

Before she could overthink it, she emerged from her hiding spot and hurried over. “Wait. Don’t go yet.”

Frank looked up in bleary surprise. “Well, if it isn’t little Penny come to save old Frank.” He grinned sloppily. “Give your dad a hug!”

Penny allowed herself to be enveloped in his crushing, booze-reeking embrace. As dysfunctional as he was, Frank was still family. She couldn’t just turn him away.

Her siblings looked incredulous. “Come on, you can’t actually want him here!” Ian protested.

Penny bit her lip. “We can’t just kick him to the curb. Can he at least stay one night to sleep it off?” She turned her best pleading look on Fiona and Natasha.

They exchanged resigned glances. “One night only,” Natasha said firmly, leveling a warning finger at Frank. “I’m watching you.”

A crash followed by raucous singing signaled Frank making himself at home. Penny’s siblings grumbled but didn’t argue further. She just hoped letting their wayward father back in temporarily wasn’t a huge mistake.

True to her word, Natasha kicked Frank out the next morning despite his loud protests. Penny knew it was for the best, but she still felt guilty ushering him to the truck while he clung to her pleadingly.

“You’re making a mistake turning your old man away!” Frank snapped as Penny firmly shut the passenger door on him. “I never would’ve abandoned you like this.”

Penny choked back a sob as she watched the truck disappear down the driveway in a cloud of dust. As awful a father as he was, her heart ached to see Frank so rejected.

Strong arms wrapped around her from behind. Penny turned to see Ian, his expression full of empathy.

“You’ve got the biggest heart of any Gallagher, you know that?” he said gently. “But Frank doesn’t deserve your loyalty. Not after how he’s treated you.”

Penny sighed, leaning into her brother’s embrace. “I know. I just can’t stand seeing anyone so alone and unwanted.”

Ian pressed a kiss to her hair. “You’re too good for this world, Pen. Never change.”

They stood like that until Penny no longer felt on the verge of tears. She was continually amazed by Ian’s endless capacity to understand and comfort her.

Days passed without any sign of Frank returning. Penny told herself it was better this way, but tears still pricked her eyes anytime she pictured Frank alone and dejected, needing his family.

Things finally came to a head late one night when Penny wandered outside, restless and aching for a cigarette. Shivering in the cool night air, she rounded the side of the barn to find none other than Frank Gallagher hunched against the exterior.

Penny yelped in shock. Frank’s face split into a grin beneath his scraggly beard.

“Heya, sweetheart! Ol’ dad’s back!” He stumbled to his feet, nearly face-planting before Penny caught him.

“Jesus, Frank! What the hell are you doing here?” she hissed, struggling under his weight.

Frank just giggled. “Whaddya mean, Pen? I’m home!”

He reeked of stale beer and body odor. Penny groaned inwardly. Frank was well and truly wasted again.

She managed to get both arms around him and half-dragged, half-carried him into the barn. He immediately passed out in the moldy hay.

Penny winced at the stench wafting off him. No way could she bring him inside like this without causing an uproar.

Grabbing a bucket, she hauled water from the spigot until it was nearly overflowing. Gritting her teeth, she upended the freezing deluge over Frank’s body.

He came to sputtering and hollering. “What in blazes?” Frank lurched upright, arms flailing.

“You stink, Frank,” Penny said bluntly, shoving a spare towel and blanket at him. “Get dried off and sober up. I’ll be back.”

Ignoring his bewildered protests, she slipped back outside and lit up a desperately needed cigarette. Her mind raced about why Frank kept finding them and what she should do now.

Part of her knew she should march straight inside and tell the others. But inexplicably, she wanted to shield Frank again, at least temporarily.

Stubbing out the cigarette, Penny steeled herself and returned to the barn. Frank was huddled under the blanket, wet hair dripping. He peered up at her beseechingly.

“Why’d you toss me in an icy lake, honeybee?” His teeth chattered dramatically. “These old bones can’t take such abuse.”

Penny rolled her eyes. “Cut the act. You smell like you haven’t bathed in weeks. What are you doing here again?”

Frank’s face morphed into a pathetic pout. “I miss my family! Came back hoping you’d take pity on your dear old dad.” His eyes gleamed slyly. “Unless you’re gonna toss me back out there to starve.”

Guilt wormed its way into Penny’s heart. Frank always knew what buttons to push. She exhaled heavily.

“One night only,” she said sternly. “I’ll sneak food and coffee in the morning. But then you need to disappear again. It's risky as it is for you to be here.”

Frank grinned triumphantly. “Bless you, sweet girl! Knew I could count on my little Pen-Pen.”

Suppressing an eye roll, Penny arranged some ratty horse blankets into a makeshift bed. Frank eagerly burrowed under the covers.

Penny stood watching his drunken snores for a minute. She still didn’t fully understand this compulsion to help a father who’d never given a damn about any of them. But the heart wanted what it wanted.

With a tired sigh, she slipped back outside, hoping this wasn’t an enormous mistake.

Penny awoke at dawn to sneak food and supplies out to Frank. To her immense relief, he was still passed out cold in the barn. She left the offerings beside him before slipping back inside to help Fiona with breakfast.

After everyone else had eaten and wandered off, Penny grabbed two loaded plates. She hesitated only a moment before heading out to the barn. Time for Frank to hold up his end of the bargain.

But when Penny stepped inside, her stomach dropped. The barn was empty except for the rumpled blankets. Frank was gone.

She searched the stalls and corners frantically. But there was no sign of him. He'd clearly snuck away, just like always.

Anger and hurt welled up in Penny's chest. She should have known better than to waste kindness on someone so selfish. Hot tears flooded her eyes before she could stop them.

Suddenly Natasha was there, gripping her shoulders. "Сестра? What's wrong?"

Penny shook her head bitterly. "It's stupid. I tried to help Frank again and he just used me. Why do I keep caring about someone who never gave a shit?" Angry sobs choked her.

Natasha wordlessly pulled Penny close, letting her cry out the pain and frustration. She didn't fully understand Penny's attachment to their father either. But she could offer comfort.

When Penny finally calmed, Natasha searched her tear-streaked face sadly. "I'm so sorry, little spider. I know you see the good in Frank despite everything. Some people just can't be saved."

She wiped a stray tear from Penny's cheek. "Don't lose that light in you that wants to help others. The world needs more of that. But give your loyalty to those who deserve it, okay?"

Penny managed a small nod. As much as it hurt, she knew clinging to Frank would only break her heart repeatedly. She had to let him go for good this time.

Over the next few days, Penny clung to her siblings, trying to ignore the ache left by Frank's absence. They gathered in the evenings to play cards or watch movies, distracting themselves from reality.

Penny gradually rediscovered her smiles and laughter. She caught herself having fun amidst the mess their lives had become. As awful as everything was, at least they had each other.

Late one night, a sudden pounding on the front door jolted them all upright. Before Penny could react, the door crashed open.

A wild-eyed Frank staggered inside, clutching his chest. "Kids...something's wrong..." he wheezed before collapsing.

Penny rushed to his side. Frank's face was alarmingly pale and clammy. Fiona appeared and pressed two fingers to his neck.

"His pulse is faint. Frank, can you hear us?" She lightly smacked his cheeks, but got no response.

"Someone call an ambulance!" Fiona ordered. She immediately began chest compressions while Penny tipped Frank's head back to open his airway.

Ian returned quickly. "No signal out here. Nat went to get the truck." He helped shift Frank into recovery position.

After agonizing minutes, Frank finally coughed and stirred faintly. Penny exhaled in shaky relief. Staying angry seemed unimportant now.

Natasha arrived and they loaded Frank into the pickup. She and Fiona sped off towards the nearest hospital while Penny and the others anxiously awaited updates.

Hours later, the truck returned. Fiona looked exhausted as she explained Frank had suffered a serious heart attack brought on by years of drinking.

Penny's own chest ached hearing the news. "Is he going to be okay?"

"Hard to say." Fiona rubbed her temples wearily. "They're keeping him for treatment and observation. But the damage might be too much already."

She gripped Penny's shoulder, seeing her distress. "He's getting the care he needs for now. Try not to worry too much."

But Penny did worry. Frank was a lousy father and human being in many ways. But now faced with losing him, she wasn't ready to let go.

Over the next few days, Penny pestered Natasha about seeing Frank until she finally relented. They arrived at the tiny rural hospital after dark wearing caps and facemasks as disguises.

Penny's breath caught when she saw Frank unconscious and hooked up to beeping machines. He looked so small and fragile. It scared her.

"Oh, Frank," she sighed, gently taking his limp hand. "I'm so sorry this happened. But please keep fighting."

She wasn't sure he could even hear her in his condition. But it felt important to say the words out loud.

Natasha squeezed her shoulder. "I'll give you a minute alone." She slipped from the room, leaving Penny alone with their father.

Penny perched gingerly on the edge of the bed. Unsure what else to do, she began softly recounting fond memories from their past.

She doubted Frank would recall most of them in his blackout drunken haze. But sharing happy glimpses of the family they once were seemed important, however hopeless he was now.

Penny wasn't sure how long she sat holding Frank's hand and rambling about the past. But gradually she felt some of the ache in her heart ease. They could never get back what they’d lost. But she could still be there for him now.