The Webs We Weave

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harley walked into the briefing room to find all the Avengers already there.

"There's the man of the hour." Tony grinned, motioning for Harley to sit next to him. "So, our little corporate liaison here got news on the Oscorp break-in."

"There was a break-in at Oscorp?" Sam asked.

"Yeah, but before you all jump on me about not telling you, I didn't find out till this morning and sent Harley over there. So, in my defense, I was waiting to see if I could get anything of use to tell." Tony shrugged.

"That sounds about right." Clint rolled his eyes.

Tony ignored the spy and turned to Harley.

"Let's hear it kid."

Harley blushed slightly as everyone's gaze fell on him.

"I really don't have that much to tell." he fidgeted. "I did manage to find out that Norman's lab was broken in to and things were taken. No one knew exactly what yet, as Harry was waiting on one of his employees to go with him to look."

"Osborn trusts some random employee with going through his Dad's secret goblin lair?" Clint grinned at his own joke.

"Peter's his best friend!" Harley defended, a little louder and to quickly for his own sake.

"Peter hu?" Natasha smirked.

Harley's face lit up and he held his face in his hands.

"Real nice kid." Tony smiled. "Came to talk to me about continuing work with Oscorp."

"Still," Natasha's face turned serious. "Osborn either extremely trusts Peter, or Peter knows about Norman. The identity of the Green Goblin was kept under wraps. Only the high ups in the company knew what happened, which is how Harry Osborn slipped in to the role so quickly. There was no concern about Norman's whereabouts."

"I take it you've dug up every single thing about his kid then?" Rhodey asked.

"He's a good kid. Norman ignored him. He's better than he has any right to be."

"You're not going to invade Peter's privacy." Harley shot. "I know you want to since he's obviously so close to Harry, but don't."

"That's the worst thing you could've said kid." Clint grinned. "You've basically just issued a challenge to her."

"I don't think it's right to look in to someone that didn't have direct relations to this, Norman man." Wanda spoke softly. "I wouldn't want anyone digging in to anyone connected to me."

"We have bigger issues than some friend of Harry Osborn." Bruce sighed. "We have a once dangerous man running around, most likely planning to return to that activities that got him locked up in the first place."

"According to records, Spider-Man had quite the battle with him before." Vision stated. "I know he mentioned this, but I looked in to it deeply. He disappeared for a time after it."

"Completely?" Steve wondered.

"Reports have that some civilians saw his disappear through a portal much like the one we last heard he went through."

"Geeze, how long has Spider-Man been working with the wizard?" Sam asked.

"I don't know." Vision replied. "That is just the first account of it being seen. He could have possible worked with him before that."

"Why don't we just have Dumbledore deal with Mean Green Fly Machine? Give Spider-Man a break this time." Tony huphed.

"Because Spider-Man has fought him before. That makes him the best choice to fight him again." Natasha responded.

"Hey!" Clint shouted, sitting up straight in his chair and looking at Harley. "You know that Peter kid's last name?" 

"Yeah. It's Parker." Harley replied, suspicious of where Clint was going.

"Peter Parker!" Clint grinned. "That was the kid who used to take pictures of Spider-Man for The Bugel!"

"So?" Rhodey led.

"He can help us get to Spidey! Surely he had some kind of contact with him!"

"No!" Harley and Tony shouted together.

Harley flushed as everyone looked at them, while Tony stared back.

"I-I mean I already told you guys to leave Peter alone." Harley stuttered.

"Tony?" Steve asked.

"Ive already reached out to Spider-Man." Tony shrugged. "I asked him to come in to talk."

"And he agreed to this?" Steve frowned.

"We'll see. I've got Jarvis on alert and the conference room window is programed to open for him."

"You think he'll just scale the building?" Wanda asked, intrigued.

"That sounds like his style." Clint smirked.

"I think he'll show." Tony smiled confidently.

Bucky silently watched until they were all dismissed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The two friends spent the rest of the day sorting through what remained of Norman's lab. Both hoped to come across something useful in helping Peter stop Norman faster this time. The first time he had done it, Peter didn't have any access to any of Norman's things, now he had full reign. Despite this good fortune, the two didn't seem to be finding anything of real use.

"Let's face it, Pete." Harry sighed. "He took everything important. Nothing here is gonna help."

"Well, we may not be completely without luck." Peter said, pulling out his phone and rereading his texts with Felicia. "A friend of mine has been monitoring the docks. Some Oscorp boxes were dropped off last night."

"Wow, Pete. Thanks for sharing in such a timely fashion." Harry deadpanned.

"In my defense, I didn't know how to say that without telling you why I would even know this information and," Peter grimaced. "I kind of forgot."

"There's my best friend." Harry rolled his eyes, but smirked. "Still, you're right about being able to tell how you'd know that. I can't exactly tell anyone anything either. I can't tell anyone I heard it from you because not only would they want to know how you know, they'd want to know why you should be believed. I could call in an anonymous tip to search the docks for stolen goods, but I doubt they'd find anything. Most likely it was a very temporary thing."

"Well, Spider-Man can look in to it to make sure."

Harry hesitated before responding.

"I don't know Pete. Spider-Man isn't exactly Dad's favorite person right now."

"Spider-Man doesn't have a lot of fans anyway Harry. Whats one super human to the list?" Peter shrugged, trying to put his friend at ease. "Look Harry, it's what I do. I'm in danger every time I put on the suit. I can't let this go. Maybe it is still there and maybe I can stop Norman from taking there serum again."

Harry sighed and ran his hand down his face.

"Well, maybe you can bring the Avengers in to help you.“ 

Peter didn’t respond right away. He had to remind himself again that Harry didn’t know about anything between him and Tony.

"I think I have a better team for this. The Avengers might draw to much attention. We need to stick to the shadows for now."

Harry just nodded.

"By the way, what did Stark say?"

Peter winced, thankful Harry couldn't see it since he had turned away from him.

"He's going over some things. He didn't say no, but he did put me off. However, he did say it would be a very short wait. Most likely to discuss things with Ms. Potts."

Harry sighed. It wasn't exactly the news he wanted to hear. However, he smiled as Peter turned to look at him.

"Ok. So SI is in the air, but I may have some good news though."

"Oh?"

"Yeah. Definitely good news for you." Harry chuckled. "Feel free to freak out you nerd."

"Now you have my complete attention." Peter grinned.

"Octavius Industries is still in support of us. Granted, we do help fund his projects, but you know as well as I do he's a good guy with an impressive mind. I'm glad he's sticking with us. This also means, you're gonna be seeing him personally as I'll be letting you check in with him."

Peter blinked, studying Harry's face.

"Are...are you serious? Otto Octavius? I'm gonna get to work with Otto Octavius?" Peter's smiled stretched wider.

"I wouldn't trust anyone else to him. He's eager to meet you himself."

"Harry Osborn, I could kiss you."

"You're a little late for that Parker. I've moved on." 

Peter laughed, to excited to banter back.

"Honestly, there's a lot to unpack in this short amount of time."

"Tell me about it. I guess we should get out of here. It's after seven."

“A little far from the tower, and conveniently in my swing path.

“I’ve been avoiding it as much as I can since you bolted and I figured this was the best way to get your attention."

Peter hesitated a moment before rolling his mask up to his nose and sitting down on the roof edge next to the former assassin.

“You do one nice thing and you're suddenly under investigation.” the man sighed.

Peter grinned.

“Guess they didn’t take to kindly to you giving me clothes?”

“Not that, it’s just that you should hear the wild theories they’re throwing around. You’re my secret son now apparently.”

“How does that work?” Peter asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Apparently I fathered you during my time with Hydra and you were smuggled out and given a new identity."

“Gotta give them points for creativity.” Peter laughed.

“Yeah. Sure.” Bucky rolled his eyes. “Anyway, I’m here to see how you’re doing. I heard about the Oscorp break-in.”

“Yeah. Not ideal. He created the Green Goblin in his lab there. It’s obvious he’s going to do it again.”

“What’s your plan?”

Peter didn’t immediately respond. Truth was, the break-in had only just happened and there was no clue where Norman went with what he stole.

“Not sure at the moment.” He answers honestly. “I’ve got a network on watch though.”

“That’s good. Especially considering those guys that attacked your friend are still out there.”

“How do you feel about joining my network Mr. Barnes?”

Bucky’s head snapped to look at the vigilante.

“Why would you want me apart of your little group. It’s no secret you don’t want the Avengers help.”

“Easy.” Peter grinned. “You’re my favorite.”

Bucky looked at the white eyes of the mans mask before bursting into laughter.

“Gotta say kid, that’s a first outside of Steve.”

“Doesn’t make it any less true.” Peter shrugged. “What do you say? Wanna join the Spidey Squad?”

“Do you really call it that?” Bucky asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I do. Not exactly sure about everyone else though.” Peter chuckled.

“What does joining this ‘Spidey Squad’ entail?”

“Eyes and ears. We’re an information group. Everyone pulls their load and we’re all busting ass at the moment. I’m currently investing Oscorp itself.”

“Let me guess, I’ll be your Avengers Tower informant.” Bucky smirked.

“Smart man. Don’t worry though, I’ll be sharing info with you too. It’s only fair if you’re willing to help.”

Bucky was silent a moment, then went to respond before Spider-Man held up his hand. He leaned in to Bucky and whispered.

"The good Captain really needs to work on his stealth skills. He wasn't exactly quiet joining us."

Bucky stilled, finally catching the slight sounds of Steve's feet. He smiled and shook his head.

"How much did he hear?" he whispered back.

"Just got here. Probably missed the last thing we said. Honestly, I figured Natasha would be the one following you."

"She's got a 24 year old on her case right now."

Peter could only assume the man was talking about Harley. What could he possibly have going on with Natasha? Peter briefly wondered if it was something he might need to be concerned about, especially after spending the day with him. Shaking his head, he pushed it aside for the far more pressing issues that loomed before him.

Peter made to out Steve from his hiding place but stopped as a bright light streaked toward him.

"Hey Web Head!"

"Johnny." Peter greeted. "What brings you this way?"

"Well, I was...." Johnny paused when he finally took in the person next to Spider-Man. "Oh. Um.....I didn't know you were associating with the Avengers. Did we miss something?"

"No." Bucky answered. "I was stalking him."

No one said anything in response to that for a moment.

"Well then, maybe you should be leaving now." Johnny said, narrowing his eyes.

"I don't think the threats are necessary son." Steve spoke, fully stepping out from the shadows. "No ones hurting anyone here."

"Captain America?" Johnny asked, looking over at Peter.

Peter just shrugged in response.

"We're not here to cause Spider-Man any trouble. If anything, consider this an apology for how things were last handled."

"If you say so." Johnny raised as eyebrow before turning fully to Peter. "Reed sent me to give you these." He tossed a bag to Peter.

Peter caught it, instantly regretting it.

"Holy shit!" he cried, tossing it from one hand to the other. "The next time Reed wants to deliver a package tell him to bring it to me himself or through Sue or Ben. How did you even get this here?"

"Fire proof bag, bug boy."

"Arachnid." Peter scoffed.

Johnny rolled his eyes and grinned.

"You sure you don't need any help here?" he nodded his head toward the roofs two other occupants.

"Nah. I'm about to leave anyway. I got places to be. In fact, I'm already late."

"Alright then. Later Webs!" Johnny called, flying off.

There was silence after the youngest member of the Four left. No one quite knew how to proceed. Finally, Steve spoke.

"We really do owe you an apology. We were only supposed to ask you about Deadpool. That was the original purpose for trying to bring you in. Then Norman Osborn made a secret break out and it just got more pressing to find you. We shouldn't have left you alone with Tony, not with everything else going on. However, I know he was desperate to talk to you."

"I'm sure he was." Peter replied. "Look Cap, I'll accept your apology on the grounds that I appreciate letting me know Norman got out, but stay out of my business with Tony. He and I have history I'd rather not have laid out before the Avengers."

"I can respect privacy Spider-Man, but I can't accept running from confrontation. I didn't run from Tony when we fell out with the Accords. We were in a time crunch to find the last Winter Soldiers before they were awoke and Tony and, even you, were holding us up. After that, I was a wanted man. Can't exactly just show up after that and how we left things when he chased us down, but I'm here now. Both sides have confronted each other and discussed our problems. We've come a long way and I'm thankful for it."

Peter sighed.

"You know, I did some research after things were settled down. I won't lie, I wish I hadn't been in Germany. So there you go Captain, there's part of the story. I was put somewhere I shouldn't have been. Take that back to your little tower meetings. I'm not running, I'm protecting myself. I was never an Avenger, so I don't owe any of you anything. I sure don't owe Tony Stark anything."

"He made your suit didn't he?"

"In case you haven't noticed, I haven't worn that suit in years. I don't have anything Tony made me." Peter crossed his arms.

Steve took a breath before looking Peter straight in the white eyes of his mask.

"He wanted to talk and offer you help. You basically threw a tantrum and ran off. I saw all the suit designs he had been working on for you."

Bucky's head shot towards Steve, clearly surprised by this information.

"I never asked for them." Peter glared.

"That's what caring about someone is about. You do things for them without them having to ask. He's trying. He's trying to repair whatever happened between the two of you and you seem to be adamant on throwing it back in his face."

"So, let me get this straight," Peter tilted his head. "You have zero idea what actually happened between me and Tony, outside of what he's told or implied, and you think you have a right to chastise me on my choices?" Peter could feel his anger rising.

"I'm just saying you should give him a real chance."

"Like you did? Sorry Cap, I'm not that desperate to let Tony Stark stick his dick in my ass." Peter ground out before firing off a web and swinging away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~(Smut my loves)~~~~~~~~~~~

Peter burst in to Wade's apartment, his anger still firm. Wade looked from the other side of the room where he had just walked in the door with a bag of Mexican food.

"Rough day Baby Boy?"

Peter stalked across the room, stripping down along the way before shoving Wade up against the door.

"You listen to me Wade Wilson," He growled. "You're gonna get naked, take me to bed, and fuck me so hard we break the bed."

Wade blinked before a saucy grin stretched across his now unmasked face.

"Oh, I think I can make that happen." He said, flinging Peter over his shoulder and rushing towards the bedroom.

He threw Peter on the bed before stripping out of his suit. Peter was already digging in his night stand drawer for lube, his pert ass wiggling in Wade's eyesight. Wade silently thanked whoever decided to grace him with this gift before laying a hard smack to Peter's ass cheek.

Peter yelp, falling in to the mattress and barely managing to get the lube out the drawer.

"I don't think it was very nice of you to come in to my home, demanding things from me and making me waste the food I brought." Wade chastised, laying another smack on Peter's other cheek. "Maybe I need to teach you a lesson on manners."

Peter looked over his shoulder as Wade loomed above him. He was about to respond when Wade grabbed him, lifting him up and flipping him across his lap.

"Yes, I definitely think this is something you need to remember." Wade smirked, slapping Peter's ass again. He laid another smack, his dick twitching as the flesh gave a jiggle. Jesus, Peter had a supple backside.

Peter laid across Wade's lap, both mortified and aroused as Wade continued his actions. He couldn't believe he was actually enjoying being spanked.

"Oh Baby Boy," Wade's pleased voice came. "Your sexy bubble butt is glowing."

Peter moaned as large hands lovingly rubbed the tender flesh.

"Jesus, you make noises like that and this is gonna go real hard and real fast."

"That's what I asked for!" Peter yelled.

"I've been waiting to have you a long time Petey-Pie. I can go hard honey, but fast ain't an option until a little further in, so I suggest you quit wiggling your ass at me.

Peter glared at floor remembering he was super flexible and strong. Before Wade could register what was happening, Peter flipped over and flung his legs over Wade's shoulders while throwing his hands to the floor and pushing off. Wade fell back on the mattress with a surprised squeak as Peter moved his legs out and straddled his chest.

"I told you when I got here. I'm not in the mood for slow and careful, I want quick and dirty. We can be lazy later, right now I want you in me completely.”

Wade groaned as he grabbed Peter’s hips in a bruising grip.

“Are you sure? You’ve only done this once before baby and my self control with you is low.”

“Prep me Wade. Prep me and get busy. I need you. I’ve had a long day and a frustrating night and I want you to erase it by pounding this ass you obsess over so much.”

Wade’s eyes narrowed as he threw Peter off him and rolled on top. He looked down at Peter’s flushed but determined face. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. 

“Peter,” he breathed out, opening his eyes. “I’m going to ruin you. I’m going to spread that ass of yours and stretch your pretty little hole. I’m gonna lube you up so well I’ll slide in so completely you’ll have no choice but to take what I give you. I’m gonna finish inside you, leave your hole stretched, sloppy and dripping with my cum. Are you ready for that? Once we start, I’m not gonna be able to stop.”

Peter responded but wrapping his legs around Wade’s waist and pulling him down for a kiss.

“Shut up and put your money where your mouth is.”

Wade growled and flipped Peter on to his stomach, pulling him up on his knees. He heard the cap to the lube pop open and felt Wade’s fingers spread his cheeks before feeling his thumbs run over his hole. The first one sunk in easily, the wet sound of lube filling the room. Wade pulled his thumb to the side, sliding in the other. He spread Peter’s hole, then pumped the two digits a bit before pulling out. Suddenly Peter felt a thick finger slide back in then out. Eager for another, Peter rocked back in to Wade and another digit slipped in. Peter shivered as lube slid down his thigh and Wade pumped and slid a third finger in.

Peter moaned as Wade’s finger brushed his prostate. Wade hit it a few more times, causing Peter to leak precum. He felt Wade pull his fingers out and chased after them, missing the feeling of being full.

Suddenly, Peter felt the head of Wade’s cock rub against his over lubed and stretched hole.

“This belongs to me and me only baby.” 

That was the only warning Peter got before Wade slammed in to him.

“WADE!” Peter shouted pain and pleasure shooting through him.

“So tight.” Wade moaned, giving Peter a few seconds to adjust to him.

“W-Wade.” Peter panted, breath evening out. 

“I’ve got you Petey. If we need to go sl-“ Wade’s words were lost as Peter leaned forward and forcefully pushed back in to him.

“Move Wade!”

Wade growled pushing in and out of Peter with powerful thrusts.

Peter felt his orgasm building as Wade hit his prostate over and over. His breathing increased as loud, indecent sounds fell from his lips.

“More! Please Wade!” Peter cried, not caring at all about how needy he sounded. All he could focus on was Wade’s cock in him, the sound of skin slapping skin, and Wade’s large hands gripping his hips hard enough to bruise.

“I’m not gonna last much longer Petey.” Wade grunted.

“Me either.” Peter gasped. “Keep going. Don’t stop!”

Wade picked up his pace and force, the bed creaking and the headboard slamming against the wall, until Peter cried out and his release spilled out on to the sheets. Two more thrusts and Peter felt Wade come inside him.

Panting, Wade rolled and pulled Peter down, making sure he didn’t fall into his own cum. They lay, breathing heavily with Wade still buried inside Peter’s ass. 

“I forgive you for the wasted food baby.” Wade sighed, burying his face in Peter’s hair.

“Gee, thanks.” Peter huphed put a chuckle, his breathing evening out.

The two stayed snuggled together before Peter tossed over his shoulder, "Guess we didn't break the bed."

As if waiting for its cue, the bed made one last, pitiful sound before collapsing and the mattress hit the floor. The two lay there in silent shock.

"Victory." Wade purred in his ear.

Peter chuckled and snuggled further in to Wade’s warmth. He knew he should tell the merc what had happened during his day, but he felt to good and sleepy to find the strength to tell. He made the mental note to tell him in the morning.

In typical Peter Parker fashion, he forgot.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~(End the smex)~~~~~~~~~

“How long have you been talking to him?” Steve asked as he and Bucky made their way back to the tower.

“I’ve only actually spoken to him twice before this.”

“Does anyone else know?”

“Nat does.”

“Of course she does.” Steve sighed. “Tony will be furious with both of you if he finds out you’re hiding this from him.”

“He’s not going to find out.” Bucky paused and looked at his friend. “Right?”

“Honestly Buck, I would have been perfectly happy not having seen what I saw tonight. I only followed you because things have been weird at the tower since you helped the kid out.” Steve replied, looking up at the sky.

“I don’t know anything.” 

Steve raised his eyebrow as Bucky stared straight ahead.

“About the kid and Stark. I don’t know what happened, but he’s real defensive about it. Whatever happened, he definitely thinks he has a right to be.”

The two walked in silence down the ever dwindling crowded street.

“I know Tony can be.....pushy, but he seems so invested in Spider-Man.”

“Then he shouldn’t have brought that other kid on.” Bucky huphed. “You lost one, but gained another. Be happy you got at least one.”

“Yeah, but Spider-Man is different. Tony took him on, apparently six months in to his powers. Harley, he’s a good kid but he’s not Tony’s first mentee. I've heard Tony talk about Spider-Man. He wants the kid to lead the new Avengers when we all retire."

"That's a lot of responsibility to throw on one person."

"That's why Harley was brought in. He's supposed to be Spider-Man's partner." Steve said, looking at his friend.

"Yeah, well I don't see that happening. The two didn't exactly hit it off. I think Harley would be just fine if he never had to deal with Spider-Man again." Bucky paused. "How old is Spider-Man anyway?"

Steve didn't respond as he had no idea how old the man was.

"I haven't thought about it actually." he admitted. "I'm assuming he's older than Harley though. I think that's why Tony's so hopeful they'll eventually get along. Maybe he thinks Spider-Man can mentor him."

"You....assume?" Bucky raised an eyebrow.

"It's been eight years since we last saw him. I'm hoping Tony didn't bring an actual kid to the fight. Judging by his voice he's young, but 26 is still young."

"You 'assume' he was 18 when we saw him?"

"I would think Tony would have some sense of responsibility to not involve a minor in something as dangerous as a fight between all of us." Steve  said, unsure who he was trying to convince.

Bucky sighed and took a breath.

"Ok, let's throw age out the window and consider the fact that you can't possibly think this is going to work as things stand.  Like the kid said, we don't know anything about him. We have no idea what went on. I know you're dating him now, but how do we know Tony isn't completely to blame? How do we know Spider-Man didn't do the right thing by leaving?"

"Are you suggesting Tony had ill intentions toward him?" 

"No. I'm saying Tony was probably his normal self and did something stupid, which caused the kid to bail."

Steve didn't respond, his gaze on the sidewalk.

"Look, I'm not blind to Tony's wishes to bring Spider-Man in to the fold and have a team relationship with him, I'm just saying maybe we should consider removing ourselves emotionally." Bucky said, putting his hand on Steve's shoulder.

"I'm so done with secrets Buck." Steve sighed. "Every time I think I've got something figured out, a secret comes out and bites me in the ass. Spider-Man is probably Tony's biggest secret, and it's hurting the team. Why will he be so open with us about Spider-Man being on the team and how he should be kept away from Deadpool and other vigilantes, but close himself off whenever his personal history with the him gets brought up?"

"Because something in that story is his fault." Bucky shrugged his shoulders as Steve looked at him. "You can't tell me you haven't thought about it. The entire team has! Why else would Tony 'I'm right and do what I want' Stark, not talk about it?"

"So what do you suggest? Spider-Man doesn't seem to want to discuss it any more than Tony does." Steve asked.

"I think Tony just wants us all to focus on the kid now. He wants to be involved with the kid and doesn't want their part to influence how we see Spider-Man. Bringing Spider-Man in wasn't the disaster you thought it was gonna be until Tony got mouthy with him. Things would probably been fine if you had been the only one in there."

"Why just me?"

"Because Steve, you're Captain America." Bucky grinned. "Also, you generally wanted to warn the kid and do just what we were asked to do. You didn't have any ulterior motive. He may have responded better to one on one with you."

"Or maybe you."

"No. I kept the kid a secret. It would have looked strange for me to talk to him. It's why I was able to get him to stop and talk to me now."

"No offense Buck, but you let the cat out of the bag when he went to leave." Steve smirked.

"I was being nice!" Bucky cried, throwing his hands up. "The kid was about to swing out the tower in pants and a mask!"

"Tony's defiantly suspicious."

"I'm honestly curious why he hasn't beaten down my bedroom door demanding an explanation yet."

"I think he's waiting to catch you off guard." Steve chuckled.

"Well, he'll be disappointed. I've talked to the kid and have nothing to show for it. He's not coming off any information." Bucky sighed before continuing. "I know you and Tony talk about things. I know you know more about Tony's connection to Spider-Man than any of us, and yet that's still very little. However, I do believe we have bigger problems right now. We have a missing mystery group that infiltrated the new S.H.I.E.L.D and an unaccounted for escaped convict with his reacquired crazy formula. Throwing everything involving Tony aside, the rest of the team needs to figure out how to get Spider-Man on board. We need him."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tony watched the security feed as Steve and Bucky walked back in to the tower. Curiosity burned at him as to where they had been. Ever since Peter had left that night,Tony had been trying to find a way and time to question the ex assassin about his seemingly familiarity with his kid. He definitely would prefer to have the conversation before Peter returned to the tower and became the newest Avenger.

Peter. Tony sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. He hadn't particularly liked having to back the kid into a corner, but what choice did he have? Peter was so stubborn. It actually amused Tony how much Peter reminded him of himself in that aspect.

He turned back to the papers before him. He was thankful he had already created 3-D models of the suit designs for Spider-Man since Peter ripped up the physical copies he had made. Now that he was about to be and Avenger, he would have to take an upgrade. The Avengers weren't small time like his vigilante associates. If Peter was going to be able to hold his own, he would need better protection than what his current suit offered him.

He pulled up the specs for Harley's suit and the upgraded suit for Peter that he dubbed, the Iron Spider. He left some of Peter's classic blue, but added a lot more red and gold. Harley had been excited to find out Tony was already thinking of extra things for his suit and was eager to get started. He had not, however, been pleased to find the Iron Spider suit design. It had taken Tony quite a lot of talking to calm Harley and get him to possibly reconsider his anger at Spider-Man.

He stared at Peter's suit, finalizing the last parts. He knew he only had a few days at most before Peter returned and met with the team as a new member. He smiled as he turned the finished 3-D model various ways. He was childishly excited to have Peter coming back. Things would be so much better now. He knew what to do and had the proper mindset to do it now. Harley was proving to be extremely helpful in that aspect. Truthfully, Harley's enthusiasm and willingness to listen to Tony made him feel both proud and guilty. He could have had this type of bond with Peter the whole time. He could have had it then and not be chasing after it now.

Eight years was admittedly a long time to be chasing after the attention of someone who didn't want to give it. Normally Tony would have given up long ago, but not with Peter. It was important for him to prove to Peter he was the best person to learn from. He had so much he could offer the young hero. Peter was a good hearted soul with a strong moral compass, and Tony hated the idea of the seedy world of the vigilante's darkening his world view.

Pushing back from the screen, Tony stretched and made his way out the lab. At this point Steve would have already made his way back to the penthouse. Despite his curiosity about where he had picked Bucky up after the man had tried to 'sneak' out, he was willing to hold off in order to spend some quality time with his lover.

For Tony Stark, his world was finally falling in to place. He could only hope everyone else's was too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Hey Tiger." MJ smiled as Peter entered Harry's office. 

"I take it he had a bad night." Peter frowned, looking at his sleeping friend on the office couch.

"'Bad' would be an understatement. I tried to convince him not to come in today. He's not going to be much use in his current state."

Peter pulled Mary Jane into a hug, holding her tightly before finally letting go. He looked at her tired face and smiled encouragingly.

"How about I wake him up and take both of you home? I'll guilt him by telling him he'll be more of a hinderance to me than helpful."

"Good luck with that." MJ chuckled. "He said to let him sleep for an hour then wake him up. He's not going to let this go Peter. Norman is a darker cloud looming over him than he'd like to admit. You know it. We both saw how the man treated him."

"I hated it." Peter said, glaring at the floor. "It was even worse when he praised me for my academic awards in front of Harry. Harry wasn't stupid. He's incredibly smart, just not in the ways Norman wanted him to be. Harry's a people person with a flare for business. Norman wanted someone he could keep in the lab."

"None of that was your fault, Tiger. Norman was an ass who failed to see Harry's value."

"I was always afraid I was going to lose him." Peter said, looking straight at Harry's sleeping face. "Norman was always so nice to me and sung my praises. I was always so scared Harry was going to grow to resent me and push me away. He was my first friend. I don't think I could have come back from a blow like that. When Uncle Ben died, Harry spent every moment her could with me. He went out of his way to remind me that Uncle Ben would be so mad if I let his death hold me back. It's because of him helping me on the side that I was able to be strong for Aunt May. He was my uncle, but he was her husband first. Aunt May, you and Harry were suddenly all I had. You know what though? I didn't need anyone else. I had the greatest people in the world on my side, and that was all that mattered."

Mary Jane smiled and wrapped him in to her own hug.

"We all love you very much Peter Benjamin Parker." she smiled, planting a kiss on his cheek. "Oh! Good luck getting that off."

Peter blinked at her in confusion as she moved to the desk and rummaged around in her purse. She grinned when she pulled out a small compact and opened it, turning the mirror to Peter's face. In the middle of his cheek were a pair of blood red lips imprints.

"'Powerhouse Bitch' packs a mighty punch, Parker." she squealed.

"Is that actually the name of this shade?" Peter gasped, putting on a scandalized face. "What will the office think of the future Mrs. Osborn and lowly employee Parker?"

Mary Jane laughed and put her compact away.

"Seriously though Tiger, good luck getting that off. Harry had to wear it on his lips for three days after a little make out session. Hope your mystery date can handle it." she threw him a saucy wink.

Peter went to reply when Harry groaned from the couch.

"Do you two mind? I'm trying to die on my couch here."

"Absolutely not. I claimed that couch and you are not dying on it." Peter huphed.

"Wow. Thanks Pete." Harry said, turning his head and sticking his tongue out.

"Reign it in children." MJ giggled. 

Harry groaned and swung his legs off the couch, slowly sitting up.

"I guess we better get back to the lab, Pete." Harry yawned, running a hand down his face.

"No." Peter shook his head. "I'll go and keep looking. You go home and sleep. I know you want to help and have a lot on your plate right now, but that's why you need rest. Norman being out doesn't change the fact you still have to manage Oscorp. Right now you have secrecy on your side. Yes, news of the break in has spread, but not the news that it's Norman. You need to be clear headed for what's coming, so I need you to go get some sleep."

Harry looked up as Peter stood in front of him, his expression full of concern.

Finally, he sighed and stood up.

"Alright Pete. Here." Harry held out his ID card. "You'll need that to get you in to the lab. Let me know immediately if you find anything." He hesitated a moment, looking carefully at Peter's face. "I mean it Parker. You let me know. Let me know or I'll fire you."

"Sure thing, Boss." Peter grinned.

Harry smiled, pulling Peter in for a tight hug.

"Thanks Pete."

Peter responded by pulling Harry in tighter. He sent a silent prayer of thanks for the absolute beauty that was Mary Jane Watson. If anyone would look after Harry, it would be her. Peter never worried when MJ was on the job. How had he avoided these two at all? He should never have let Norman's capture keep him from them then, and he sure as hell wasn't going to let it happen again.

He let Harry go, helping MJ gather Harry's things and walked them to the elevator. 

"Be careful going home." Peter whispered in Mary Jane's ear as he hugged her. "We still don't know where Norman is, or if he'll go after Harry."

"Well then, it's a good thing we have Spider-Man then."

Peter pulled back and looked at the smile on MJ's face. He just smiled back, not at all surprised.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Peter grumbled to himself as he fell through the door in to Matt's apartment. May had called to say she was going out with some friends from work. He had assured her he'd be fine and that he was glad she was getting back to her normal routine.

He lay face down on the floor, his legs partially in the hallway.

"Are you coming in or do I just leave you there?" Matt asked, stepping up to him.

"Just give me a minute and I'll crawl to the couch."

"Shut the door on your way over."

Peter listened as Matt walked away. He lay there a few more minutes before pulling himself the rest on the way into the apartment, using his foot to kick the door shut. 

"Come on Parker," he grunted. "You're New York's favorite vigilante. You can pick yourself up off the floor."

Slowly, he pulled himself up and shuffled to the couch.

"Matt!" he called, throwing himself on to the couch. "I need sustenance!"

"I'm sure 'New York's favorite vigilante' can find strength to get it himself."

Peter lifted himself up enough to peer over the back of the couch and glare at his mentor.

"Come on Dad!" he whined. 

Matt didn't respond, frozen in place. He coughed after moment and moved to rummage in the kitchen. Peter grinned, falling back on the couch and listening to Matt move around. He was almost asleep when Matt tapped his shoulder.

"Here son." he chuckled, handing Peter a cup. "Foggy had dropped off food before you got here."

"Matt! Were you holding out on me? I'm your child! You're supposed to take care of me!" Peter gasped, sitting up and smiling into his cup of chocolate milk.

"First of all, you're 23 and can take care of yourself. Second of all, I only keep what I need for chocolate milk here for you. No one else is coming over and drinking it and neither am I."

"I knew I was special."

"Very." Matt deadpanned. "So, you're not here for a social call."

"No, I wish I was though." Peter sighed, placing his cup on the coffee table. "I didn't get to talk to you yesterday since you were in court, but there was a break-in at Oscorp. Norman raided his lab and took a few other things from Harry's office."

"Peter." Matt frowned. "That's not something you don't tell me. I can't have you waiting to tell me things like that. I can't watch out for you if I don't know I need to."

"I know, it was just a very long day." 

"I can feel the fact I'm not going to be happy about what you're about to tell me."

"I had to go to SI."

The room was silent as Peter waited for Matt's reaction.

"Why?"

"Because the SI contract with Oscorp was one of the things taken from Harry's office. I mean, a few others were too though. Anyway, Harry sent me with, get this, Iron Lad back to SI to go over continued work between the two companies." Peter said, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Does he know who you are?"

"No. He was really fidgety though. His face kept flushing. I think he might have been trying to get sick."

Matt shook his head and internally groaned. How had Peter lived 23 years and still not picked up on subtle attraction. Granted, his only experience with romance was with two very straight forward people. Guess Peter just needed it spelled out for him.

"I get the feeling I haven't reached the part I'm going to hate yet."

Peter took a deep breath before finishing.

"Tony basically backed me into a corner by saying he'll continue work with Oscorp if I agree to join the Avengers."

Matt sat silently and still. Peter briefly wondered if the man was even breathing. The longer the lack of response continued, the higher Peter's anxiety rose.

"Calm down Peter, you're giving me a headache." Matt said pointedly.

"Sorry." Peter grimaced.

"Who else knows?"

"No one."

Matt nodded, standing up and moving around absentmindedly. He paced a while before speaking.

"I'll go with you. Bring Wade as well."

Peter blinked in shock. He had expected several responses, but this was not one of them.

"You want me to join the Avengers?"

"No, but I know how important Harry is to you. Maybe Stark needs a reminder of where you actually belong. We go tomorrow night."