"i'm glad you found me"
The Battle of New York had finally come to an end. As the dust settled over the decimated city, the Avengers took stock of the damage done. Buildings lay in ruins, debris littered the streets, and the air was thick with smoke and ash. They had managed to defeat Loki and his Chitauri army, but at great cost.
Natasha Romanoff slowly made her way through the rubble, her catsuit ripped and dirty from the fight. As a spy and assassin, she was used to seeing destruction, but not on this scale. The loss of life - civilian and otherwise - weighed heavily on her.
A small noise caught Natasha's attention. She paused, listening carefully. It sounded like...crying? She headed towards the sound, ducking under a collapsed beam.
There, huddled against a crumbling wall, was a young girl. She looked about ten years old, with messy brown hair and big, frightened eyes. Tears streaked down her dust-covered face as she sobbed quietly.
Natasha's heart constricted. She had always had a soft spot for children. Being raised in the ruthless Red Room had robbed her of any real childhood. It was one of her deepest regrets.
She slowly approached the little girl. "Hi," she said gently. "Are you okay?"
The girl shook her head, lower lip trembling. "My Aunt May and Uncle Ben..." she choked out before dissolving into more tears.
Natasha's stomach dropped. She could guess what had happened to this child's guardians. Slowly, she reached out and brushed a lock of hair from the girl's face. "Shhh, it's alright," she soothed. "What's your name, little one?"
"P-Penny," the girl hiccuped.
"Well, Penny, my name is Natasha. I'm going to help you, okay?"
Penny nodded, sniffling.
Natasha held out her hand. After a slight hesitation, Penny took it, allowing herself to be pulled up. Now on her feet, it was apparent how tiny and vulnerable she looked.
Something in Natasha's heart lurched. This poor orphaned child had awoken feelings she had long thought frozen by the Red Room. Without even realizing it, her mind was made up. She would protect this girl, no matter what.
Just then, Penny seemed to fully process who she was with. Her eyes widened. "You're Black Widow!" she exclaimed in her small voice.
Natasha smiled. "That's right. But you can call me Natasha."
Penny's lip quivered. "You were always my favorite Avenger. You're so cool and pretty and brave."
Natasha's breath caught in her throat. No one had ever called her those things before. Not since she was a child herself.
She placed a gentle hand on Penny's shoulder. "How would you like to come with me? We'll get you cleaned up and find you a safe place to stay."
Panic flashed across Penny's face. She shrunk back, pulling away from Natasha's touch. "N-no, I...I can't..."
Before Natasha could react, Penny had slipped from her grasp and disappeared into the debris.
"Wait!" Natasha called, but the girl was gone. She cursed internally, angry with herself for frightening the child. With the chaos surrounding them, Penny could be anywhere in the city by now.
Natasha set her jaw in determination. She would find Penny again. No matter how long it took, she would track down that little girl and make sure she was okay.
For now, though, she had to regroup with the team. Natasha made her way through the streets until she reached Stark Tower, where the other Avengers were recuperating.
Tony was sprawled on a sofa, his Iron Man suit dented and scratched all over. His eyes were closed, but Natasha could tell from his breathing that he wasn't fully asleep.
Thor stood at the window, gazing pensively at the city below. His godly armor was stained with blood and grime from battle.
In the corner, Bruce Banner sat on the floor in ripped pants, looking dazed. The enormous toll of turning into the Hulk always left him exhausted afterwards.
Steve Rogers leaned against the wall near Bruce, still in the tattered remains of his Captain America uniform. His shield lay at his feet, scratched but unbroken.
Clint Barton perched on the back of the sofa, bow nowhere in sight. Blood trickled from a cut on his temple, but he otherwise seemed unharmed.
As Natasha entered the room, all eyes turned to her.
"There you are," Steve said. "When you didn't check in, we were worried."
Natasha sank down onto the sofa next to Tony. "I'm fine. But I ran into someone - a little girl. She can't be more than ten years old."
"A child?" Thor rumbled, surprised. "Alone out there?"
Natasha nodded grimly. "She's an orphan. Lost her aunt and uncle in the battle."
The Avengers exchanged sorrowful glances. No child should have to experience such trauma.
"Poor kid," Clint said quietly. Though he tried to hide it, Natasha could see the pain in his eyes. She knew he was also orphaned at a young age.
"I tried to get her to come with me, but she got scared and ran off," Natasha continued. "I'm worried about her being out there all by herself."
Bruce shook his head sadly. "She must be so frightened right now. It's overwhelming for an adult, let alone a child."
Steve straightened from his position against the wall. "What do you want to do, Nat?"
Natasha took a deep breath. This was the part that scared her, that made her feel vulnerable. But she owed it to that little girl to see this through, no matter where it led.
"I want to find her," Natasha said. "Make sure she's safe. And...I want to take care of her. Adopt her, if she'll let me."
Silence met her declaration. Natasha kept her face carefully composed, unwilling to show anxiety.
Finally, Tony cracked one eye open. "You want to adopt a kid, Red? That's quite the bombshell."
Natasha lifted her chin. "I'll understand if you all think it's a bad idea-"
"No!" Steve interrupted forcefully. "No, that's not it at all." His face softened. "I think that's a wonderful plan, Nat. We'll help in any way we can."
"Aye," Thor rumbled. "The child will need much care and comfort. You are most noble to provide it."
Clint gave her a gentle smile. "I know you'll be a great mom."
Bruce and Tony chimed their agreement. Natasha felt herself relax, warmed by her friends' support.
Over the next few weeks, the Avengers scoured the city, searching orphanages and shelters for the little girl. Natasha even called in a few favors from old contacts. But Penny was nowhere to be found.
Finally, they got a hit. A social worker recognized the girl's description. Penny had turned up at a children's home in Queens a week after the battle.
The second Natasha heard, she sped over. This had to work. She needed to gain Penny's trust and give her the life she deserved.
Natasha parked outside the run-down building. Taking a steadying breath, she stepped out of the car and headed inside.
The lobby was dreary and dilapidated, the furniture old and sagging. Natasha's heart sank. What a miserable place for traumatized children. At the front desk, she quickly explained who she was and why she was there.
The tired-looking woman barely glanced up from her ancient desktop computer. "Yeah, yeah, Parker girl. She's here. I'll call her down."
Natasha fidgeted impatiently as she waited. After a few minutes, she heard slow footsteps approaching. Her breath caught in her throat.
Penny appeared in the doorway, even tinier than Natasha remembered. Her face was wan and there were dark circles under her eyes. Natasha ached to wrap her up in a warm, safe embrace.
"Hi Penny," she said gently. "Do you remember me?"
Penny nodded hesitantly. She didn't smile.
Natasha crouched down to her level. "I'm so glad I found you. I've been really worried. How are you doing?"
Penny sniffled, eyes filling with tears. "Not good," she admitted in a small voice. "I miss May and Ben so much. And it's scary here."
"Oh, sweetie..." Unable to stop herself, Natasha pulled Penny into a careful hug. The girl stiffened for a moment before melting into her embrace. Natasha stroked her hair soothingly.
After a minute, she leaned back to look Penny in the eyes. "Penny, I want to adopt you. I want you to come live with me, where I can take care of you and keep you safe. We'll be a family. What do you think?"
Silent tears ran down Penny's face. She gazed searchingly at Natasha for a long moment. Then, in a choked voice, she asked "Can I call you Mom?"
Natasha's heart swelled even as her own eyes filled with tears. She had not expected that question, had not imagined this child could accept her so quickly. But hearing that word from Penny's lips shattered any remaining walls around Natasha's heart.
"Yes, of course you can call me Mom," she managed thickly, pulling Penny close again. She placed a gentle kiss on top of her head. "маленький паук," she murmured. My little spider. At last this lost girl had found a home, and Natasha - the notorious Black Widow - had found a daughter.
Natasha took Penny back to the Tower that very day. The Avengers were waiting eagerly to meet the newest member of their odd little family.
"Penny, I'd like you to meet the team," Natasha said gently. "I know meeting new people can be scary, but these are good friends of mine who want to help us."
Penny ducked partially behind Natasha, peering out at the assembled heroes. They all smiled kindly at her, careful not to appear threatening.
"Hello, young Penny!" Thor boomed jovially. "Any daughter of the Lady Natasha is welcome here."
Steve stepped forward and crouched down. "We're so glad you're here, Penny. Let us know if you need anything at all."
"What's up, kiddo?" Clint gave a casual salute from his perch on the back of the couch. "Nat talks about you all the time."
"Nice to meet you, Penny," Bruce said in his quiet, reassuring voice. "We'll all take good care of you."
"Welcome to the madhouse, squirt," Tony quipped, but his eyes were warm. "Make yourself at home."
Penny took in each of them with wide eyes. "You're the Avengers," she breathed in awe. Then she looked up at Natasha. "And you're my Mom now."
Natasha hugged her close. "That's right, маленький паук. We're all here for you."
Over the next few months, Penny settled happily into her new home. She bonded with each Avenger in different ways.
Natasha worked closely with her, helping her process her grief. Their relationship grew ever closer, until Penny truly felt like a daughter to Natasha.
Steve became a steady, comforting presence. He often sat sketching while Penny played nearby, ready to offer a listening ear or sage advice.
Clint took Penny under his wing, empathizing deeply with her history. He understood better than anyone the pain of losing family so young.
Bruce provided quiet companionship. He taught Penny yoga breathing to manage anxiety. His calm nature soothed her when memories became overwhelming.
Thor entertained Penny with exciting tales of Asgard, always mindful that his size could be frightening. He let her braid his hair and roared with laughter at her dramatic renditions of his stories.
Tony took on the eccentric uncle role. He brought Penny cool gadgets to take apart and tinker with, praising her mechanical skills. Though he ruffled her hair and called her "squirt," she could tell he genuinely cared.
Finally, Penny had the loving family she always wanted. Natasha marveled daily at the open, happy child that Penny was becoming. The more she blossomed, the more Natasha healed as well. Penny's innocence and affection filled voids left by Natasha's traumatic past. For the first time, the infamous Black Widow could just be Natasha - a mother rediscovering her own humanity.
One night, as Natasha was tucking a sleepy Penny into bed, the girl looked up at her with a contented smile.
"I'm really happy now, Mom," she said softly. "I'm glad you found me."
Natasha kissed her forehead, heart overflowing. "Me too, маленький паук. Me too."
Over the next five years, Penny flourished under the care of her new family.
Natasha was a fiercely devoted mother. She showered Penny with love while still giving her space to grow. They forged a deep bond through long talks, movie nights, and trips to the ballet. Natasha taught Penny gymnastics and self-defense, but never pushed her too hard. She let Penny set the pace.
The other original Avengers remained a constant presence in Penny's life. They all doted on her in their own ways.
Steve was the steady, guiding figure, always ready to listen to Penny's latest obsession or problem. His patience and wisdom never failed to reassure her.
Clint brought lightness and fun, treating Penny like the little sister he never had. He snuck her candy when Natasha wasn't looking and taught her silly pranks to play on the others.
Bruce provided a calming presence. He helped Penny control her emotions and anxieties as she grew older. She often sat quietly reading or drawing while he meditated nearby.
Thor never lost his childlike enthusiasm around Penny. She thrilled at his dramatic tales of other worlds. He made her laugh with his earnestness and let her braid his hair into tiny plaits.
Tony took on the eccentric uncle role, giving Penny cool gadgets to tinker with and praising her mechanical skills. She learned complex engineering from him, though they both got scolded when projects exploded or caught fire.
As the Avengers roster expanded, Penny gained more surrogate family members.
Sam Wilson joined first. As a counselor, he helped Penny open up about lingering grief over losing May and Ben. She came to rely on his guidance and support.
When Wanda Maximoff arrived, she and Penny bonded instantly. Only a few years older, Wanda became the doting big sister Penny never had. They could chatter or sit in comfortable silence for hours. Wanda used her powers to entertain Penny with swirling red shapes and sparks.
Even serious Vision was won over by Penny's sweet nature. He let her explain modern technology to him, as he was still learning human culture. In turn, he taught her physics and astronomy.
Rhodey's warm humor and loyalty reminded Penny of her late Uncle Ben. He regaled her with Air Force stories and brought her jet fighter models. She loved hearing his teasing banter with Tony.
Finally, Penny had the stable, nurturing upbringing she always longed for. Natasha and the Avengers healed old wounds and showed Penny she was loved.
On Penny's 15th birthday, her school took a field trip to Oscorp Labs. Penny went with her two best friends, Ned Leeds and MJ Watson.
As the tour group walked through a research area, a tiny red and blue spider lowered itself down towards Penny. Before she noticed, it landed on her hand and bit her. Penny yelped and shook it off, but the damage was done. She washed the bite and shrugged it off.
Later that day, as Penny headed home, she started feeling ill. Her muscles ached and she felt both feverish and chilled. By the time she walked into the Tower, she was trembling.
Natasha and Wanda were waiting to celebrate Penny's birthday, but their smiles faded when they saw her condition.
"Penny!" Natasha rushed over, pressing a hand to her forehead. "You're burning up. What happened?"
Penny leaned into her mother weakly. "I don't know. I got bit by this weird spider on the field trip. Now I feel awful."
Wanda came over and helped Natasha guide Penny to the couch. "Lie down, маленький паук. We'll take care of you."
Over the next few hours, Penny's condition only worsened. She thrashed in delirium, muscles spasming painfully. Natasha and Wanda took turns wiping her fevered brow and trying to soothe her.
Finally, near midnight, Penny's fever broke. She fell into an exhausted sleep. Natasha and Wanda collapsed on either side of her, relieved the crisis had passed.
The next morning, Penny awoke feeling better than ever. In fact, she felt fantastic - energized and strong. Bounding out of bed, she noticed things looked odd. The colors seemed brighter, details sharper.
"Penny!" Natasha exclaimed when she saw her. "The fever's gone?"
"I feel great, Мама," Penny assured her. She went to give Natasha a hug.
But when she did, Penny accidentally squeezed too hard. Natasha winced.
"Ow! Easy, маленький паук," she said, rubbing her ribs. "When did you get so strong?"
Penny stared down at her hands in confusion. "I...I don't know."
More strange occurrences kept happening. Penny's reflexes were lightning-quick, she could lift heavy objects with ease, and her senses were hyper-acute.
Natasha grew concerned. "Could this be side effects from the spider bite?" she asked.
Wanda looked thoughtful. "Maybe the spider passed on some abilities to Penny. I've heard of stranger things."
"So what, I have powers now?" Penny asked in disbelief.
"Looks that way, kid," Natasha said wryly. "Guess we better start figuring them out before you accidentally destroy the place."
So Penny began training to control her newfound abilities, with help from Natasha and Wanda. They realized she could crawl on walls, heal rapidly, and sense danger precognitively. Her powers were frightening at first, but soon became thrilling.
Natasha sat Penny down after a session. "Well, you know what they say. With great power comes responsibility, and all that," she told her solemnly. "I know you'll use it to help people, like we do."
Penny nodded, determination lighting her eyes. She would make her mother and surrogate family proud. She would be a hero.
Natasha pulled Penny close and kissed her hair. "You're growing up so fast, маленький паук. But no matter what, I'll always be here for you."
Penny hugged Nat tightly. "I know, Мама. I love you."
"I love you too, sweetheart. Always."
Penny parked her bike outside Avengers Tower, mind spinning. Her mom Natasha's birthday was coming up, and she had no idea what to get her. She wanted it to be something really special this year.
At 15, Penny was more aware than ever of everything Natasha had done for her. Taking in a traumatized child couldn't have been easy, but Natasha gave her the loving home she always yearned for. Penny wanted to show how much that meant to her.
But what gift could possibly convey that depth of love and gratitude? Penny sighed, shouldering her backpack as she headed inside.
"Hey Squirt, how was school?" Tony greeted her in the lobby.
Penny bit her lip. "It was okay. But I need some help. Mom's birthday is next week and I have no clue what to get her!"
Tony stroked his goatee thoughtfully. "Hmm, Romanoff is hard to shop for. But I think I know some people who can help."
He led Penny down to his workshop, where Bruce and Pepper were working.
"Penny needs birthday gift ideas for Red," Tony announced. "I'm thinking we can all put our heads together."
Pepper smiled warmly. "That's so sweet you want to get Natasha something special."
"Do you have anything in mind yet?" Bruce asked.
Penny shook her head. "I want to get her something meaningful, you know? To show her how much she matters to me. But I don't know what that could be."
The three adults exchanged thoughtful looks.
"The perfect gift always comes from the heart," Pepper advised gently. "Think about your relationship with Natasha. Focus on your memories and feelings."
Penny considered this. An idea was slowly forming, but it would require help.
"I think I have something," she said slowly. "But it's kind of a big project. Would you guys be willing to work on it with me?"
"Of course, kiddo," Tony said, ruffling her hair. "Whatever you need."
"Just say the word and we'll make it happen," Bruce agreed.
Pepper squeezed Penny's shoulder. "We'd be happy to help make Natasha's gift perfect."
With their support, Penny got to work. Over the next few days, she spent hours gathering materials, making plans, and enlisting aid from Wanda too. Her idea was ambitious, but she was determined to see it through.
Finally, the big day arrived. Penny could barely contain her excitement as she helped set up for Natasha's party. She just hoped her mom would like the surprise.
When Natasha walked in, she was greeted by cheers of "Happy birthday!" The Avengers old and new were gathered around a cake and decorations.
Natasha laughed, hugging Penny. "You guys, you didn't have to do all this!" But she looked touched by the festive gathering.
After enjoying some cake, it was time for Natasha to open gifts. She received new widow's bite gauntlets from Tony, a beautiful leather jacket from Wanda, a signed photo of Steve from his younger days, and other thoughtful presents.
Then Penny stepped forward, heart pounding. "This is from me, Мама. I hope you like it."
She handed Natasha a large, flat package wrapped in colorful paper. Holding her breath, Penny watched her mother carefully peel it open.
Inside was a framed collage, filled with photos of young Penny with each of the Avengers over the years. In the center was a picture of her and Natasha, arms wrapped around each other, smiling brightly.
Natasha's eyes brimmed with tears as she took in the meaningful gift. When she looked up at Penny, her face shone with love and pride.
"This is beautiful, маленький паук," she said thickly. "You have no idea what this means to me."
Penny rushed forward to hug her tightly. "I wanted to show you how special you are, and how grateful I am to you, Мама. You gave me the family I always wished for. I love you so much."
Natasha held her close, tears falling freely now. A few of the other Avengers discreetly wiped their eyes too.
"I love you more than anything," Natasha whispered. She cradled Penny's face in her hands. "Being your mother is the greatest gift I could ask for."
They held each other for a long moment before Natasha playfully ruffled Penny's hair. "Now, I believe there's a party to enjoy!"
The rest of the evening passed joyfully. Music played as the odd extended family laughed, talked, and celebrated together. Tony and Clint took turns spinning Penny around the dance floor, making her giggle.
Finally, the party wound down and it was just Natasha, Wanda, and Penny relaxing in the quiet living room. Penny was curled up on the sofa with her head in Natasha's lap.
Absently stroking Penny's hair, Natasha said softly "Today meant so much to me, girls. The party was wonderful, but just spending time with my two daughters is the greatest gift."
Wanda squeezed Natasha's hand, her eyes warm. "We're lucky to have you too, Nat. I don't think I could ask for a better sister."
"Or mom," Penny murmured sleepily.
Natasha bent to kiss each of their foreheads. "I love you both, so much. You are the best parts of my life."
Curled against her mother, Penny let her eyes drift shut, feeling safe and content. Natasha continued gently combing her fingers through Penny's hair until the girl's breathing slowed and evened out.
"Sweet dreams, маленький паук," Natasha whispered. "Thank you for making mine come true."
She met Wanda's fond gaze. The two women sat in cozy silence, warmed by the familial love they never expected to find. But here, together, they were home.
"Hey Penis Parker!"
Penny groaned as the familiar, mocking voice rang out across the school parking lot. She turned to see her longtime bully, Eugene "Flash" Thompson, strutting over with his usual smug sneer.
"What do you want, Flash?" Penny asked wearily. She just wanted to get home.
"Aww, what's wrong?" Flash taunted. "Is wittle Penis gonna cwy?"
Penny bit back a retort. She knew responding only spurred him on. But the verbal jabs still stung.
Ever since she started at Midtown High, Flash had bullied her relentlessly. He was jealous that she got top grades without even trying. He also resented her close friendship with the smartest guy in school, Ned Leeds.
"Maybe if you spent less time bullying people, your grades wouldn't suck so bad," Penny couldn't resist firing back.
Flash's eyes narrowed angrily. He shoved Penny's shoulder, hard. "Watch your mouth, Parker!"
Penny stumbled back, holding her tongue this time. Arguing never got her anywhere with Flash.
Just then, a sleek black car pulled up to the curb. Penny sighed in relief as Natasha stepped out. She had never been so glad to see her mom.
Flash's eyes bugged out in disbelief. "No way! Black Widow is your mom?"
Penny hurried over to Natasha, avoiding Flash's gaze. "Hey Мама, can we go please?"
But Natasha was focused on Flash, her eyes cold. "Is this boy bothering you, Penny?"
Before she could reply, Flash swaggered over. "Wow, I didn't know Puny Parker was so well connected!" His voice dripped with false admiration. "You've got an awesome mom, I'm jealous."
Natasha's expression remained stony. "Get in the car, маленький паук. I'll handle this."
Penny complied, not envying Flash right now. As they drove off, she glanced back to see Natasha speaking sharply to Flash, jabbing a finger at his chest. He had lost all his bravado and was nodding meekly.
"What did you say to him?" Penny asked as Natasha got back into the car.
"I made it clear that if he ever bothers you again, he'll answer to me," Natasha said grimly.
Penny felt a rush of gratitude. "Thanks, Мама. I'm so tired of Flash's bullying."
Natasha squeezed her hand. "I won't let anyone hurt you, sweetie. But please, tell me if this continues. Don't suffer in silence."
"I will," Penny promised. With Natasha on her side, she felt empowered.
The next day at school, Flash's attitude was markedly different. When Penny walked by him in the hall, he didn't make a single nasty comment. In fact, he couldn't seem to meet her eyes.
At lunch, Penny told Ned and MJ what happened. "You should have seen Flash's face when Natasha showed up," she grinned. "I thought he was gonna pass out!"
"Serves him right," MJ said forcefully. "Maybe now he'll think twice before harassing you."
"Dude, your mom is the coolest," Ned said through a mouthful of sandwich.
Penny had to agree. She felt bad for enjoying Flash's fear, but was relieved to finally be free of his cruelty. Surely he wouldn't risk getting on Black Widow's bad side again.
Or so she thought.
A week later, Penny was running fast to her mom's car after her Decathlon meeting went long. She hurried down the empty hall, only to find Flash blocking her way.
"Look who it is," he sneered. "Penis Parker, all alone."
Penny's guard went up. "Get out of my way, Flash. I don't want trouble."
Flash stepped closer. "Your mommy isn't here to protect you now. Maybe I should teach you a lesson about respect."
He shoved Penny hard into the lockers. She yelped as pain exploded across her back.
"Stop it!" she cried, trying to duck away. But Flash just laughed and pushed her again.
"Not so tough without Black Widow, huh?" He slammed his arm across her collarbone, pinning her in place.
Tears of pain and frustration sprang to Penny's eyes. Why couldn't Flash just leave her alone? She refused to show weakness by crying out, but she was truly scared now.
Suddenly, Flash was wrenched violently away from her. Penny looked up in shock to see Natasha restraining him in a perfect choke hold.
"Никогда не трогай мою дочь снова!" she snarled. (Never touch my daughter again!)
Flash scrabbled at her arm, face purple. Natasha held him a moment longer before releasing him. He fell to the floor, gasping for air.
Natasha stood over Flash, murder in her eyes. "I warned you what would happen. Come near Penny again and they'll never find your body."
Flash whimpered, unable to get words out. He crab-walked backwards down the hall before scrambling to his feet and running off.
Natasha immediately turned to Penny, face softening. "Are you okay, маленький паук?" She gently examined Penny's bruised back and collarbone.
Despite the pain, Penny gave a shaky laugh. "I'm okay now. Your timing is amazing, Мама."
Natasha carefully embraced her. "I'm so sorry I didn't get here sooner. I never wanted you hurt like this."
Penny clung to her, adrenaline fading. "It's not your fault. I'm just glad you came when you did."
Natasha stroked her hair. "That boy will never bother you again, I swear it." Her voice hardened. "And the school will be hearing from me as well. This ends today."
True to her word, Natasha had the school crack down on bullying and suspend Flash. With her main tormentor gone, life improved drastically for Penny.
But the experience also taught her not to stay silent when being targeted. "Ignoring it won't make it stop," Natasha advised. "You have to speak up for yourself."
So Penny held her head high and called out cruelty when she saw it. Having Natasha's steady support gave her the confidence she needed.
One evening after school, Penny turned to Natasha and said "Thanks for always having my back, Мама. I'm really lucky you chose me."
Natasha pulled her close. "You made me a better person, маленький паук. Thank you for letting me be your mother."
Penny snuggled into Natasha's embrace, her haven from all harm. With someone so fiercely in her corner, she knew she could conquer anything life threw her way.