Carlos watched in the background with his hand covering his mouth, feeling curious and awkward in the current position he's in. He met eyes with Jessica who just lowers her brows, looking firm at Carlos's innocent grin and a small wave. Carlos watches as she looks downcast and bites her lips as Peter explained. Carlos had to contain himself from laughing at the obvious rejection Spidey was going to receive from stone-cold and tough Jessica.
Spider-Man: Just hear me out first. I want help locating Tombstone, but since we lost him last night, we have to start from scratch. Before I helped you guys last night, I just paid a little visit to the guys who killed Tiger's family
Jessica: You- You found them? How?!
Spider-Man: Listen to me Jess...how I found out was by breaking into S.H.I.E.L.D and looking into the cameras-
Jessica: You...ARE YOU INSANE? Running from the FBI is one thing! But you broke into S.H.I.E.L.D! You just-!
She cut herself off when catching Carlos's astonished look, Jessica just turns her body away and steps a few steps away from Peter to take in deep breaths, sighing with her hand on her forehead and the other holding her hip. Although she won't say it, she was impressed with Peter. It's impressive that he wasn't caught by Fury but seeing how it's Fury, one of the most dangerous men on the planet, haven't caught wind of it by now is a bit...suspicious. Despite being impressed with Peter's skills by managing to get inside without a scratch on him, it's still a bit odd that Fury hasn't done anything...yet.
Spider-Man: I did it for Tiger...and Fist...I wanted him to rest after his trip from K'un L'un and to stop helping Tiger since it was draining him...I just wanted this to be over and done with
Jessica: Does he know that you broke into S.H.I.E.L.D? Does anyone else know?
Peter slowly shook his head. It won't do much harm if he tells her that Johnny knows too, right?
Jessica: You're gonna have to tell the team at some point but who knows if they'll even protect you once Fury finds out what you did...But how did you even manage to find them in the first place?
Spider-Man: Carlos helped me...
Jessica opened her mouth to protest but Peter explained first before Jessica could let a word out.
Spider-Man: I had a hard time trying to find the two murderers before I met Carlos who promised to help me
Carlos: Who would dare reject an offer to help the one and only Spider-Man?
Jessica stayed silent, eerily and coldly glaring at Carlos but switched her attention back to Peter.
Jessica: You already have a helper Spider...so why even ask me?
Spider-Man: Jessica. I only ask because-
Jessica: I can't help you anymore...
Carlos puckered his lips to the response and now strained silence between the two teens. This would be the moment that someone would step outside and be polite when about to witness an argument happen but...Carlos would feel ashamed to say that he isn't that type of person. He wouldn't want to miss the chance to see the Amazing Spider-Man and Coma Girl start a dispute...he would kill to see Jessica crack.
Spider-Man: Why? You aren't one to give up like this Jessica, don't you see what Tombstone has done to us? He conspired to kill Ava's family, he is using an innocent company as a hideout to create drugs, and he was the cause of my best friend being taken away! How can you just stand by while our friends' lives are tearing apart?
Jessica just remained still. Her lips pressed together with her vacant eyes staring straight at Peter, watching and listening. Peter couldn't take her seriously with her stoic stare, she didn't look bothered at all. Right...Peter thought, why would she care about Danny and Ava? They don't have a good relationship with each other so why would she have a caring side towards them?
Jessica: Spider. I love you...you know that, don't you?
Peter hesitantly nodded. The term just seems to flutter inside his chest...it felt...weird. It just felt weird coming from Jessica since she rarely gives any words of affection towards the others and yet says the term so freely and easily when directing towards him. Peter could only handle two confessions in a day.
Jessica: I did what I did last night because I want to support you, which is why I didn't ask questions about this drug case. The entire night was just a shit show but what's even fucking worse, is that I had one job. I had to take you to the hospital but I failed in completing that job...which led to you nearly dying by Johnny. That alone only made me question my ability and wonder if I'm cut out to be the good person you want me to be...But I just can't do this anymore...
Peter took a step back when Jessica took a step forward while her face remained permanently stoic which couldn't match up with the words she was spewing out. The odd combination just made it more difficult for Peter to take seriously.
Jessica: Even though I...care for you...I can't involve myself anymore. Tombstone knows my face, my name, my house...I have a sister to care for and protect. I'll support you in any way I can in this case but I can't involve myself without further involving Trish...
Spider-Man: That's exactly why I want to stay on Tombstone's end. He won't care if you stop helping me, he will still go after your sister. Don't you want to end this before he makes a move of going after her?
Jessica: If that happens, then I'll beat his ass so bad that no one would recognize him
Spider-Man: See? If we do this together, then we'll beat him and protect our loved ones. I'll be able to save my boyfriend's company and give our friend a sense of peace when we find the ones who killed her family...Neither of them deserves to go through this
Jessica: And you do? It's enough that you're being tracked by the FBI and having to deal with Fury, don't place Tombstone above your many problems...let the police handle it
It's tough to try to change Jessica's mind. No matter what Peter says, she will still keep hold of her answer and decision. As disappointed as Peter is right now, he understands that she has a responsibility to take care of to care for her sister. He's not angry. He doesn't feel as if he got betrayed. He doesn't feel anything negative about her. It's her choice. And because it's her choice...the team won't side with him. The boys usually respect Ava and Jessica because they have common sense. More common sense than Peter does anyway...
Carlos: Just admit that you're scared, Jessie. You're just using your sister's name as an excuse to not help Spidey, just admit it, you're not the kind of person to care for someone that deeply unless it's not Stirling
Jessica: If I'm a coward, then why did I come out to get Spider when I knew he was being chased by the FBI?
Carlos: Just to save your ass. If Spidey was caught then his identity goes down the drain and so does yours...
Spider-Man: Carlos. Shouldn't you leave?
Carlos's smile froze with his eyes widened in surprise from Spidey's agitated tone. Hah. It wasn't supposed to end that way. Is Spidey trying to kick him out? Did he suddenly have a change of heart after everything he's done for him?
Spider-Man: You were a very good help last night so thank you for that...along with taking a bullet out of me and paying for our meals despite not finishing them...I feel bad enough about keeping you here knowing that we're being chased by the FBI, I don't want you to be caught in the crossfire as an outsider
This was...a bit expected. It just felt so...Spider-Man. Carlos knows that he should respect Spidey's wish to leave them alone but he really wants to know how this all plays out.
Carlos: You want to find Gideon Mace, don't you? Lucky for you, I know someone who might find his hideout
Jessica: Don't listen to him-
Carlos: Mace is in Manhattan, remember? I know some guys in Manhattan that would be delighted to help you Spidey
Peter was desperate. Carlos could sense it just from him seeking Jessica for the help of all people. Jessica could see that Carlos was trying to bait Peter. Despite being unsure of what Carlos wanted from him, it was obvious that Carlos has a plan surrounding Peter...it was really difficult to tell the difference if Carlos is just an obsessed fanboy that wants to be attached to the hip with Peter or wants something out of Peter. Spidey is smart. He should know the difference between someone who generally wants to help and someone who wants to leech something off of him...but seeing how Peter is eager for any sort of lead, he'll risk this chance.
Spider-Man: I...rather not disturb you anymore Carlos. You've done enough help...the rest is something that I should do on my own
Jessica grinned from the rejection. She was right. Peter isn't as dumb as Carlos thought. But soon after...her proud grin faded away. It was a realization that Peter is not going to stop. Everything that Jessica just said was meaningless if Peter was going to do the entire case himself...it was almost as if he was prepared to face his outcome.
Carlos: Oh...Oh! I-I see. I won't bother you about it anymore...
Peter nodded. The three were just staring at each other in silence. Mainly Jessica and Peter were staring at Carlos and eyeing the exit. Their stares were telling Carlos that he has to leave and that he was not needed anymore. The thought of it just made Carlos grind his teeth together behind his closed lips and only covered his irritation behind a void smile. Standing up from the bench and kneeling to the box of drugs and bags of takeout food under the bench.
Carlos: Just getting my food...it was nice seeing you Spidey. I'm sure we'll see each other again
The powered pair watches Carlos grab his bag of food and wave while walking up the steps. They waited for a few seconds before Peter can remove his mask and swallow a gasp of fresh air, stuffing the mask inside his pocket and approaching the bench to grab the box out of its hiding spot. His stomach just kept rumbling when he noticed Carlos take out his bag of food, regardless of the food having the sluggish smell of musty and burnt heroin Peter just couldn't stop himself from hastily unwrapping a cold burger and filling it inside his mouth. His cheeks were dirtied with sauce and crumbs when he turns his head back to face Jessica when she called for him when the train arrived. His stuffed cheeks flushed a deep red when passengers looked in his direction with disgust that he bowed his head, grabs the box, and hopped after Jessica to enter the train.
No words were exchanged between them. They sat beside each other in a spot with fewer people who were nodding their heads as if they were asleep and some with their headphones on to avoid listening to Peter's strained swallows and chewing. Jessica glances at Peter then looks away and then finally opens her mouth to crack the ice.
Jessica: You won't give up on this, will you? No matter what happens to you...you'll just accept the impact
Peter slowly chewed the soggy fries inside his mouth and swallowed, watching her side view of red cheeks and knitted brows, her eyebags a light blue from lack of sleep. The light sound of the fists inside her pockets shifted to the 5-second silence between her and Peter. The whole team knows by now that he won't stop doing what he believes is right...only if it means that the people that he cares about are involved. Is that why everyone knows that it's pointless to argue with him? Danny didn't argue, neither did Johnny, not even Sam, and now Jessica...Even if they talked about it in the team meeting, it'll be a bit difficult for him to change his mind.
Jessica: I don't understand why you do this to yourself. It's infuriating how much you care for others...it's unhealthy
It is unhealthy...but who would be able to handle this if not him? Fury won't do anything, the police don't have the power as he does, and the team doesn't have experience...and would most likely let Fury handle it just so they won't get in trouble. If anyone else was so willing to take this matter into his hands...either the Avengers, the X-Men, Inhumans, hell even Daredevil and Punisher...Peter would be more than content into letting them handle it, but...they shouldn't know what he knows about Danny and Ava. None of them should know.
Peter: I'm...I'm...sorry...
I'm sorry that I won't stop hurting myself. I'm sorry that you worry about me. I'm sorry for making you look like the bad guy. I'm sorry for...not giving up.
~~~~~~
This was dumb. Running out of the house was so stupid. Why did I think this was a good idea? I don't have any money, no phone, no proper clothes for this weather...Is this a good idea?
"Didn't I say to let the Iron Fist handle this? You ignored my advice child. And now that you ran off...who knows if they'll even want to chase after you. They're most worried over the Spider instead of you..."
The jade tiger walked soundlessly beside Ava, her slippers sliding against the slippery pavement. Her back was lunged forward with the ticklish feeling of blood dripping down her back when her wound reopened from climbing over Peter's backyard fence. Ava was slowly bleeding out and she was only outside in the snow for less than ten minutes, there were no cars in sight to hitch a ride from a Taxi, and...heading to Awilda's house will take about 4 hours if she goes walking...
"I'm here child. If you need assistance then I'll gladly lend you my power to get to the place you want to go"
Ignore it. Ignore it.
"You'll be at your sibling's house in less than an hour if you just resist letting go"
The offer was...tempting. Ava always wore the amulet 24/7, it gave her a burst of energy and features that would be overlooked by the boys since they worried more about each other. Not wearing the amulet left a huge impact on her body that she never felt before, for the first time in her life, she felt weak. The effects of the amulet were severe to her physical and mental health to the point of allowing her brother to introduce her to drugs. The sour smell of vinegar from the drug stayed lingering when she found Fillipo's body. It's a smell she will never be able to forget.
The drug, in a way, made her open her eyes to how dependent she is on the amulet. It made her lose control of her own body and thoughts by making her feel fragile, it just made her feel...disgusted and most importantly... guilty. Because of the amulet...her family left her...the only memory of them being their bodies rotting inside her old room. The tiger was the cause of everything. It ruined her family's lives. And yet...it could've prevented their deaths from happening if she had just worn it the entire time than relying on others.
Despite the greedy tiger seeking control of her body, it brought to use to her the entire time she stayed in SHIELD. So if she just used the tiger for the last time to go to Awilda's house then...
"Ava!"
She turns back when her name was called and stopped in her steps. Luke ran towards her and went through the jade tiger to stand beside her side. Ava raises her brows and widens her eyes when looking up and down from Luke to the tiger that he just ran into.
Luke: Where are you going, Ava? You can't go out like this...
Luke stated. Throughout the time the tiger walked alongside her, she never felt any sense of coldness from the snow, it was to the point where she didn't even notice that it was cold, to begin with. Aside from looking unbothered, Luke regardless removed his sweater and placed it over Ava's shoulders. If Luke was here, then she mustn't have gone far...It was rather humiliating on her part, she would run the same speed as Peter but without the powers of the amulet, she was...slower.
Luke: There. You should wear warmer clothing because of your current condition in the middle of winter-...
"Current condition". It's just another word for being weak.
Luke: -anyway, let's go back home. Sam must be home already with Danny and Peter...they'll start asking for you
Ava's arm was grabbed by Luke and pulled to head back in the direction of Peter's house, but she stayed still as if her feet were glued to the iced pavement. If she allows herself to be taken back home by Luke, she'll have a low chance of being allowed to be taken outside again.
"What are you waiting for child? Don't you want to see your sister?"
The tiger's tail waved through the dense fog, circling Ava and finally pausing beside Luke, its eyes glowing a bright ember that just stared deep through her. She just had to lower her head to avoid its bright stare but it just made Luke tilt his head. An erupting beeping had gone off from Luke's direction. The tiger perked its ears and raised them, the ears folded in Luke's direction as he moved his sleeve up to reveal his communicator. He taped onto the screen which had stopped the beeping and instead came Sam's glaring and furious voice.
"Where the hell are you?! I just came back and Danny's knocked out! I need you here!"
Ava and Luke just shared glances at each other with their brows raised and unable to form any words, trying to process the situation more clearly. Luke opened his mouth to form any words to reply but only unexplainable noises came out which just made Sam loudly sigh and groaned to himself, they could already picture him pacing around the room in a panic.
Sam cut Luke's babbles off with a sharp tone commanding him to get back home before he ends the call. Luke attempted to drag Ava back home in a rush to see Danny but she pulled her arm back, freeing her hand and placing it against her chest as she rubbed her sore wrist with her other hand. Glaring up to Luke for an explanation.
Ava: What the hell is going on Luke? Why is Danny knocked out?!
Luke: I don't know! Okay?! I don't know! Everything is just-!
Luke cut himself off. Rubbing his face with his hand as he pants, catching the breath that he lost when he raised his voice. Ava's chest rises and looks conflicted when looking over at Luke's wavering presence and the jade tiger staring straight at her.
Luke: I told him to not go after him...but does he listen? No. That idiot just can't resist himself...fuck...
His back was turned. His back faced Ava who bit the inside of her cheek, still waiting for an answer.
Ava: What...happened, Luke? Tell me. Now. Or...I'll leave and never come back...
It was a dumb little threat. A threat that a little kid would say towards their parents. Despite her current condition, there's no doubt that she would leave. Luke turns back forward to Ava, frowning at her response. Ava is still so persistent about going back to her. Why? Luke wondered. Why doesn't she give up on that? Why is she so stubborn?
Luke: You're still planning on going back...towards her?
The tone. The dark tone Luke gave just rose a firey burn inside her chest, her blood rising, and her face turning red. Is he judging me? Is he against my idea?
Ava: She's my sister! Why wouldn't I go back?
Luke: Why...? You know what she thinks of you...so why do you even try?
A buffering silence formed between them. Despite the harsh tone that sounded as if he was mocking her, he looked...conflicted. Almost as if he was debating whether he should look angry or annoyed, sympathetic or confused...It looked as if he was in a battle with himself when wanting to show his feelings and thoughts across. This was like his fight with Danny earlier.
Shamelessly, Ava listened to their entire argument outside her door. She couldn't help but lean against the door to listen further to their conversation...she felt guilty for listening and acting dumb about it but they weren't being so quiet about it either, if Aunt May was at home then she would've heard every single word as Ava did.
Luke: You're just going to end up hurting yourself, Ava. It's...not worth it-
Not worth it? Is that something he would say so carelessly? He said the same thing to Sam about not wanting to let Danny leave the house for Peter. Luke knows how much Danny cares for Peter and yet tries to keep him chained down and he also knows how much Ava cares for Awilda. Luke knows this. And yet still says that the actions they make to protect the one that they love are not worth it.
Ava: I don't care what you say! How can you just say that so freely? You said the same thing to Danny! All he wanted was to protect Peter...and all I want to be with Awilda and protect her...protect her the way that SHIELD has failed to do...
Luke: I said what I said to you and Danny because I don't want to see anyone get hurt anymore...I don't want you to...to...
He hesitated. Biting his lower lip to avoid saying anything more and turning his body to the side. Ava needed to hear his answer. Whether it was for good hidden intentions or not, it doesn't excuse what he said.
Ava: Tell me. What the hell is going on...?
"Ava? Luke?"
Aunt May's softened warm voice caught their attention, her sudden appearance just brought a shiver up their spines with their faces turning cold and white. They turned to the side to notice Aunt May in her car, her window down and short hair strands flying in the wind with a scarf wrapped loosely around her neck. How did neither of them notice Aunt May and her car approaching and stopping? Did she hear anything from their conversation?
Luke: Mrs. Parker. We didn't know you were coming back home...
Aunt May: I decided to call in sick for work today to take care of Ava, but seeing how you're both outside now...
Luke: We only came outside for a walk. I thought it would help Ava to get back some of her energy
Aunt May tilted her head to the side, raising her brows to the response.
Aunt May: Without warm clothing? It's still awfully freezing...
Luke and Ava puffed their cheeks in defeat as they look at each other, hoping for the other to give some sort of reasonable response. When witnessing the teens being caught up in a lie, Aunt May just smiled and a click sounded from the backseat car doors.
Aunt May: Get in kids
The firm command caused the two quickly rush over to the car doors and swing them open, Ava had stepped inside first and slid to the right side of the seat and looks back to the back window when noticing the tiger's smoke and figure standing still. The tiger faintly growled until it faded away from Luke closing the door and placing on his seatbelt, the tiger was facing its direction down the road with its shoulders arched up and tail folded down as if it could touch the ground. She looks forward for a short second when the car suddenly started to move forward then Ava looks back once more to see the tiger's head turned in her direction, eyes glowing a bright white before evaporating into green smoke and approaching the car, entering through the cracks of the window and entering into the amulet in her front pocket.
The drive back home wasn't long at all. In less than five minutes, the three of them were already walking up the porch, and Ava and Luke followed behind Aunt May so obediently and quietly, giving each other looks about the worry Peter and Danny. Aunt May expects both of them to be home as Peter's still grounded, if he weren't inside then...
" Danny! Stay here! You can't risk going out again!"
Aunt May stops. Her hand holding onto the door knob. Sam's voice was loud enough for Ava and Luke to hear that sweat formed in the palms of their hands.
Danny stomps over to the door with his head down, his legs tilting to the side but he kept his posture still, it was as if he was spinning and ready to go dark again. He reaches his hand forward to the doorknob to exit but Sam threw himself against the door, blocking the door and door knob to refrain Danny from opening it, furiously panting as he tried to reason with Danny.
Sam: Peter is fine! He's with Jessica! You...you did what you had to help him...
"Get out of my way..."
Sam: Peter doesn't want you to-
"Get out of the way Sam! Can't you see that I need to get him?!"
He squeezes Sam's shoulder, attempting to pull him away from the door but he wouldn't move, he refused to budge away from the door. It slowly causes a vein to pop out from Danny's hand.
Sam: Peter doesn't want you to get hurt!
Danny: I don't want him to get hurt either! I said that I was going to bring him back! And I still intend on keeping my promise! Although Storm is caught, people are still going to be looking for Peter. You know how...close they both are...who knows if Peter just wanted to get me off to go rescue Johnny like some sort of prince in shining armor...
That thought alone creates a flame inside his stomach. If he just stayed awake...
Sam: Jessica is with him! He isn't that stupid to go after Torch alone! All he fucking wants...is for you to stay here and get some energy...
Sam pushes Danny slightly further away from the door while Danny catches his breath. How can he just fall asleep like that? He swore himself to bring Peter back, and yet he just...allow Peter to have his way again. What other troubles will he experience now that he left? How can Jessica manage to protect him when she's planning on staying under the radar for her sister? What about that sketchy kid who just happened to be at a burned restaurant just for the sake of seeing Peter again? What if he's being followed by that Tombstone guy? What if the FBI is following him? Doesn't Peter trust him enough for these types of things? He didn't tell him anything of what was going on, and yet he trusts Johnny with all this...Did he never trust Danny in the first place? Why? Why doesn't Peter have any form of faith and trust in Danny? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why?
"I just...wanna protect...you..."
Those words. Those words mixed with Peter's strained and quivering laugh before it faded away by Danny's abilities. Why did Danny need protection? If Peter could just tell him everything then Danny himself will decide if he needs his help or not. Why should Peter decide everything for himself?
Sam: Danny. Let's sit and calm down until Peter comes back to have a small team meeting okay??
He reaches his arm out to reassure Danny's shoulder but was only brushed off by Danny avoiding his touch. Did...Sam have to be the one helping Danny? Did Peter only call him to handle Danny before he comes??
Danny: Sorry- I...think I'm going to stay in my room. Call me when...he gets here...
In seconds, Danny was already out of Sam's sight. He allowed some more seconds of silence to pass to heave out an exaggerated sigh and stroll back to the couch, but stopped when hearing the door knob wobble and turns back to see Aunt May. The warm temperature in the room shifted over to cold from just the dark and still expression on her face, Luke and Ava shivered behind her and avoided contact with Sam's panicked eyes.
Sam: Uh-Aunt May! I didn't know you were coming home so early!
He rushes over to the couch to properly fix the scrunched-up pillows and to grab the empty plate on the dining table that Ava has left behind. If he was warned of Aunt May coming back so soon then he would've had time to come up with a story and spoken with Danny later.
Aunt May: Where the hell is Peter?
Shit...you've done it now Parker.
~~~~~~~
Peter nearly slid his foot against the iced sidewalk, it felt as if his knees has gone weak and were trembling, he and Jessica kept looking over their shoulders over any sort of sound near them but were mistaken by either car driving past them or cats playing around in the snow. Every little noise just brought a fume into Jessica that she would just tightly hug the ashen box and walk potentially faster than Peter who would oftentimes become distracted. Both noises and silence would equally crawl up Peter's skin, his heart inside his neck from the amount of eeriness from the aura in the area. As if a dark force were to crawl up from behind him and pull him back into the shadows. The anxiety of being followed clouded his mind that he didn't notice that he and Jessica have arrived at his house, Jessica bumped her elbow against Peter's arm to grab his attention and tilted her head forward to the house, telling him to go ahead of her.
Peter stared forward at the house. His childhood home is quiet from the outside which differs from the noise that goes on inside with the team and Aunt May. It should stay that way. FBI agents will not fill up his yard and question Aunt May like how it was last year with Uncle Ben's death. If the FBI were to ever step in front of his door then...he will...
"Peter. Your aunt's here..."
Aunt May's small call parked in the driveway, in front of the closed garage doors.
Fuck.
Peter ran up the porch, Jessica following behind him and fixing her hair in the process that Peter wiped his sweaty hands against his sweater and opened the door, locking eyes with Aunt May who sat on the couch, her legs crossed and wrinkles over the over from her glare when seeing him.
Jessica was given space to step inside by Peter as he closed the door behind him, locking it and looking down from Aunt May's scowl. Jessica could only awkwardly wave and rush up the stairs, sweating and praying for Peter.
This was...what? Maybe the tenth time of being caught going against Aunt May's orders? Peter lost count when he was 12, one of her commands that he possibly would never forget was "Have fun in your study group today dear, it'll rain later today so make sure to run back home". It was a simple command that she would tell him every Saturday before he went off to the library to tutor some kids who would throw paper at the back of his head from the back of the class. Tutoring them on the weekends was just a nuisance, especially when they wouldn't even show up to the library in the first place and threatened Peter to cover for them when questioned by the teacher on the following Monday. If he could somehow travel back in time to that moment, if he had just seen it beforehand, then he would've chosen to go to the library instead of going over to Skip's place. That day, was the moment he decided to fully follow May's and Ben's rules...until the spider bite happened and up to now...
Aunt May: What were you doing out Peter?
Fuck...does she know? Should I just lie? ...my big mouth is only used for lying after all...But Sam and Danny got here before me...did they cover up for me?
Peter looks back up but looks back down from Aunt May's unwavering and strict look. She looks as if...she could see through him...as if she can somehow see through his clothes and see the costume underneath...Does she know about everything? Johnny's situation is everywhere right now, could she have pinpointed the two together?
Peter: I was...with Jessica. You saw me walk in with her...didn't you?
Maybe I shouldn't have said those last words. It just sounded snarky...fuck...what will Aunt May think now?
Aunt May: What's your relationship with Johnny Storm?
Huh? Why did she ask that? Does she...know?
Aunt May: Your silence tells me I'm right about your relationship. I had some questions when I noticed him on the day of your dance before break started...
What kind of questions? How come she remembered him??
Aunt May: Peter. Are you...infatuated with that Storm kid?
Peter: What?
Peter finally met eyes with Aunt May. She remained motionless to the ridiculous question. Peter's mouth twitches into an awkward smile and laughed at the question, it was completely random.
Peter: What makes you think that I like him?
Aunt May: If you don't, then why did you go out to find him?
Shit...how does she know that? Did the group just snitch me out?
Peter: I-I'm not that close with him May, he's just someone that MJ knows, you know how she is. Shouldn't you talk to her about it instead of me? Like c'mon. Do you think I would be the type to be around someone like him?
Words just kept overflowing. Lies. Just pure lies kept streaming out of Peter's foul mouth. Who was he truly protecting at this point? Talking so badly of Johnny who just gave his freedom away for him just for the sake of Aunt May to not stay onto Peter's back by lying to her...even bringing MJ into the mix of this confrontation. But...how does she know about Johnny's and Peter's relationship in the first place? The winter dance must've been...a bit reasonable but it couldn't have been enough for her to pinpoint their exact relationship.
Damn it. What should I even say so I can go upstairs to talk with the team? Tombstone could be laughing in his chair when seeing Johnny being taken away and planning on going after me and harming Aunt May next, I can't keep being stalled like this...
Aunt May: Peter. Tell me the truth. If you are, in any way, in contact with that menace then I'll-!
Peter: Don't call him that! He's not a bad person! How can you say that about him when you never spoke to him before?!
This...broke a nerve in Aunt May. She didn't expect this to be Peter's answer. Defending someone like Johnny after the amount of damage that he caused. When did Peter get this out of control about an irresponsible flamethrower? Even though he was grounded, he still went against her wishes by leaving to see him. Clearly...Peter must see her as a joke. But Aunt May felt to blame here, she gave him too much freedom. After everything that she sacrificed, allowing five teenagers who she didn't know live under her roof, spending hours in her workplace just to support all of them...All of this and how was she treated? Lack of trust from Peter, lies, sneaking out, and now in a relationship with Storm, a heavily powered and irresponsible man who lacks any respect towards others. How can Aunt May allow another person to take advantage of her nephew after Skip?
Aunt May: Kids like you shouldn't involve themselves with people like Storm. What he did was completely irresponsible for a person his age! I don't want you to stay committed in your relationship with him!
Peter: He didn't do anything wrong! Can't you believe me on that? He's not the type of person that the news makes him out to be!
Aunt May: You don't have a say in this! You're just a kid and my nephew! I was too lenient on my punishments for you before but you kept pushing and breaking boundaries!
How come I don't have a say in what she's saying about Johnny? He's the entire reason why I'm still here in front of her...Johnny is reckless but he's extremely caring and understanding of my struggles. He even thought of Aunt May and her safety that he gave himself up...not as she would ever know what he did today. I know this and yet...I'm arguing with her about it. What good will it do? If I tell her the truth then she'll know about me being Spider-Man, she'll know about the team, but...it wouldn't change her mind about Johnny's actions last night despite it being my fault. If I tell her that everything Johnny did, was for me and my selfishness...would she shift her hatred of Johnny onto me instead?
Peter: I...love Johnny, Aunt May. He's my best friend...and he's arrested because of me. Say what you want about him but it won't change the fact that he defended and saved me after the trouble that I've brought onto him...
Peter gulped from the response. It sounded a bit...not friend-like.
Aunt May: Do you trust him that badly? Do you truly believe that he wouldn't harm you?
Both of them looking at each other like they were having a staring contest, Aunt May refused to blink so she wouldn't miss the smallest facial feature on Peter's face. Her eyes turned red when Peter cracked into a fond smile, his eyes glistening without a nervous crack in his voice.
Peter: I trust him with my life
Yeah...that sounded a bit gay.
Aunt May: Get out of my sight...now
Without resisting, Peter followed her orders. He walked up the staircase quietly until he stopped when he was halfway up, pausing to listen to whimpers and sobs from Aunt May. Hearing her cry punched a hole inside his chest, he hated keeping secrets from her...but it was for the sake of protecting her. He can't afford to give up...especially when he's so close to getting Tombstone and clearing Johnny's name, maybe until then, he'll come clean to Aunt May about everything.
Peter entered his room and avoided eye contact with everyone, scattered around the corners of his room, he knew how they looked at him. Words wouldn't describe how they looked at him for his little stunt with Johnny. Despite ignoring everyone's sore eyes, Peter only looked into Danny's gazing half-lidded eyes, his hair so neatly tied up with the white rope that camouflaged so perfectly with his white pillows. Danny was sitting up on their bed with his knee propped up to his chest, looking...fine. A beat sparked inside his chest from seeing how Danny is unscratched and fully conscious unlike before...Peter wanted to walk towards him, wrap his arms around Danny and squeeze him into a tight hug, and apologize endlessly for everything...seeking warmth from Danny's words of encouragement and simple promises. He would do all that if it was just him and Danny...Danny deserved to be the first to know about this but...the others demands answers. They have a rightful reason why they should.
Jessica: I told my part of the story webs. It's time to tell yours from the beginning
Luke: How can you just plan this without telling any of us? This issue with Tombstone is serious and you thought it was a good idea to keep quiet about this!
Peter: Did you think I wanted to be involved? I only got involved for-...forget it. Lemme explain properly first about everything...
When noticing Ava's striking glare, he paused and looked away. He grabbed a chair from his bedstand and sat with the back of the chair facing forward and in between his legs, his arms resting over the backrest's top bar. Peter looked over at Ava again, what he was going to say will shake her up...he would have to mention her family's death, forcing her to bring back the massacred sight of her family's bodies done by the work of Gideon Mace...and then having to bring up Danny's company and drugs being produced and sold by a drug lord behind his back...Retelling all of this could... end badly without any sleep between us.
Peter: It started when Johnny called me to investigate a warehouse that was producing drugs by a drug lord named Tombstone...
Peter spoke nonstop. Everyone listened eagerly to the entire story and waited till the end to ask questions. None of them took notice of how many hours have passed when Peter finally stopped talking. He wasn't given a minute to breathe when Ava pounced on him, nearly causing him to fall back on his chair and be submerged in questions while the rest stood silent, processing everything.
Ava: You saw how they look right? Do you know who killed mi mama? What else do you know that you aren't telling me?
Peter: I said everything that happened. I didn't keep everything out...I promise Ava
That's...a bit of a lie. He didn't mention how Gideon Mace is involved with the death of Ava's family just for the sake of Ava going after him and acting rampage. Ava can't end up the same way as how he ended up when Uncle Ben died. The adrenaline of hunting the person who's done you wrong isn't a fun feeling after you've snapped back to reality.
Sam: Where's Bobby now? He should be here to back up your story
Jessica: What other backup do you need? I was there too
Sam: Yeah but who knows if you were even sober during the entire time!
Peter: Bobby is held inside his school. We won't be able to see him from now on
Luke: I don't understand. How come Tombstone let you live? You were up in their business, they should've killed you on the spot
Danny: Luke...
He warned. Glaring at his friend through his bangs who only grumbled to himself and crossed his arms. A small soft smile appeared on Peter's face to the response, at least Danny is still caring for him...
Ava: What about my family? You said that you watched the recording of them being shot...and you've gone after one of them, where's the other one? What are you hiding from me?
Peter stayed quiet, his eyes opening from seeing Ava's face turn red, her arm reaching out towards him and grabbing his collar, lifting him from the chair and pushing him against his desk, his back meeting heavy impact from the edge of the desk.
Sam: Ava!
Ava: Tell me who killed them, Parker! I lost everything because of them! I...why did...SHIELD kept quiet...? They were supposed to...protect them...if anything went wrong...so how did two guys get under their radar despite cameras looking over them...? I-I-I just can't...I can't stay here and do nothing, unlike Fury...
Peter looks up at her, tears streaming down her face like a river. Her words were filled with heavy and forced breathing that just made her face turn redder and redder. Peter could feel Ava's hands shaking as she holds tightly to his collar, a throb forming inside his throat and chest from...a sense of deja vu.
"Why...did I have to be the one to go through this? Can't you tell me the truth Peter? I just...want the truth...please...My family never did anything wrong...what did they do to deserve this...?...please tell me who had hurt them..."
Peter never saw someone like Ava break down like how she's acting now. Gideon Mace. Gideon Mace was what Peter wanted to say so badly just for Ava to stop crying but...he bit his words back inside. He can't let Ava go, rogue, if she finds out...she shouldn't experience it. Even if she might hate Peter for the rest of her life, he refuses to see himself inside of Ava...As a leader and friend, he has a responsibility to shoulder all the dirt and blood from everyone if it meant keeping the others clean. He'll do anything just for them to not end up like a mistake like him...
"I...can't..."
Two words. Two words were enough to crumble down 5 months of their friendship.
The others jumped when hearing the door slam from Ava exiting the room. Luke held Sam back from going after Ava and tilted his head towards Peter, whose chest kept rising up and down, and coughing to clear up his throat. His voice went off-key when he spoke and sat back down, his leg bouncing up and down.
Peter: So...any questions?
The group stays silent. Exchanging glances at one another and firmly shake their heads. Their uneasiness in the situation just made it clear that they had a single question in their mind, Peter could see it but...he's sure that they know the answer to the questioning circling inside their heads already. Peter had a question himself...but is it worth hearing their answer? After what happened with Ava, they can't risk anything else...Jessica made a proper reason. She has a sister to care for, Sam has to worry about his mom and sister, Danny has to worry about his company and his siblings...None of them would be willing to help Peter...
Peter: That's...good. I'm sure I've said everything that I needed to say so far...So thank you for listening guys...I'm sorry...that I haven't told you before...No matter what happens, I'll take full responsibility for what will happen next...
Luke: Will you even tell Fury everything?
Haha. Fury. That old spy. That guy must already know everything by now, what good would it do to tell him everything and expect him to understand Peter?
Peter: I'll tell him if he asks me to. No matter what punishment he'll set for me...I'll accept it
It didn't take long for them to silently wish him luck, emptying the room with Jessica being the last to leave. Peter could hear Jessica's heart drumming its way out of her chest when she rubs her hand on his ruffled hair and pushed him against her chest, hugging him. Peter sank in her embrace with her irregular heartbeats finding him as smoothing.
"I'll support you till the end Peter...be careful"
Jessica doesn't look the type to give such words of heartwarming encouragement. Such a thing coming from her really...tugged at Peter's heartstrings. Now there were only two of them left in the room, him and Danny.
Ever since they first met contact when Peter stepped into the room, Danny refused to look over in Peter's direction again. Usually, Danny would approach him with questions that would lead to a fight but Danny...just remained silent. The creaking bed broke the silence between them, Peter's heavy weight on the bed sat beside Danny's. Looking down to see Danny's hand planted on the bed and in a small gap that kept their thighs from touching. Danny is usually a clean person so no doubt would his hand look soo clean and shine under the light hovering over them. How can anyone see such pretty and silk hands as weapons? How can they be seen that way when those hands hold Peter as something that deserved to be held and treated with such proper and careful care and protection? The last time he held Danny's hand was hours ago as a way to comfort him, before sending him back home with Sam...Peter's finger twitched from the feeling. Eager to feel a sense of warmth from Danny, he crawled his hand over Danny's, his fingers interlocking with the hand but Danny slipped his hand out of Peter's. Placing his hand on his lap, still avoiding glancing in his direction.
Peter kept his hand on the same spot. Forcing himself to look straight and unbothered, it's...only fair for Danny to be mad and avoid holding his hand. He deserves it. He kept Danny in the dark so this...is nothing to him.
Peter: Just so you know...I don't intend on backing out of this case with Tombstone...
Danny: I know. Which is why I and the others didn't ask...No matter what any of us say, you wouldn't change your mind regardless...
There was a quiver in Danny's voice, in between his words that just squeezed Peter's heart. Danny would form usually form a solution for him so this was...a bit hurtful for Peter to come to terms with. Danny could only give up at this point...everyone else gave up as well.
Peter wrapped his arms around Danny's neck, hugging him so tightly so Danny wouldn't move, to his surprise, Danny didn't protest.
"Please...trust me this last time...I promise to take you out for wonton soup when this is over...I'll make it up to you Danny...so don't give up on me now okay?"
"...okay"
Their relationship will get better after this, and Peter swears of it. He won't rest as long as Tombstone and his boss are locked up for everything...
~~~~~~
Maple leaves caught Peter's attention from the auditorium window, the pure sight of leaves slowly descending to the ground by the wind was more intriguing than a lousy presentation with a Fantastic Four member as a guest speaker. He had to bite his lip to stop himself from yawning from the lack of rest and sleep from looking around for a job. The funeral alone took a toll on the bills that Aunt May now has to suffer through while Peter himself kept discovering new of his powers as the days goes by. Uncle Ben's death, bills, MJ and Harry being a couple, being caught in a crossfire with White Tiger and hero killer, and now...having to accept that he's not needed in the Fantastic Four group. Anyone would assume that they're getting paid from their fancy computers...just a bunch of leeches who want the money just to have a name for themselves. Unlike them, Peter actually needs the money.
Peter, how can Uncle Ben expects me to take care of May with my powers when I can't even make use of them for money? Should I just go back to wrestling? Ugh no...that last gig would rather toss me in the trash for not stopping a robbery...I can just find another wrestling ring anyway...once I do then I can pay Aunt May's bills off
A sudden flash blinded Peter's glasses from the front stage. Frowning, he removes his glasses to see that the Human Torch kept forming colorful demonstrations with his flames.
How annoying. That guy must have it easy just showing his powers off and living in luxury with his sister...talking so freely about school work when he mostly likely dropped out of school. How can anyone listen to that person and take him seriously?
"Now! For a parting thought! Stick to your school work and do your best in your studies! Don't be discouraged by it. If I learned anything from my partnership with the Fantastic Four is to never give up. No matter how small or big our defeats are, we always get back up. Everyone has their struggles and flaws, they make us human, but always know that you shouldn't suffer alone..."
Peter doesn't remember what he said after. It was as if he and Torch were the only people in the room, it felt as if...Johnny was directing talking to him. For someone his age and a showoff...Torch had a sense of wisdom that would stick deep inside Peter for years to come.
Everything that happened after was a blur to Peter. He remembered approaching Johnny who was currently signing autographs for some girls. It made Peter feel a bit out of place being the only guy which unfortunately caught sight of Johnny. He attempted to run off when he met his eyes with Johnny. The Torch's beaming smile lit something warm inside Peter's chest, the burn grew larger and larger that caused his skin to sweat and glasses to fog up when Johnny grabs his arm and pulled him towards him.
"Where are you going without an autograph? Don't be so shy about it!"
An idiotic sound came out of Peter's voice as a response. Never in his entire life did he ever want to bury himself in a hole and suffocate from this small embarrassing moment. Despite how dumb he must've sounded, Johnny laughed. Those intrusive thoughts just washed away from Johnny's laugh that was as soft as a breeze while he signed his signature on a flyer of his prep talk. He hands the signed flyer back to a flustered Peter, anxiously grabbing up and keeping his head down to avoid further embarrassing himself.
Peter: Uhm! Thanks for the speech...it uh...meant a lot to me...so..I'll never what you said today...
"Oh. Sure! I'm glad you enjoyed it!"
What face was he wearing? Did he have a sudden interest in Peter as well? Was he still looking at Peter? Those questions kept clouding Peter's mind and he bravely lifted his head to say another response but Johnny was already dragged away by female students. Smiling brightly at them with flirtatious comments and signed flyers, completely forgetting about Peter.
Right...he's a playboy. What made you think that way, Parker? Although...he did give good advice...
"Wake up Spider-Man"
A growl rang in his ear. Bring him wide awake from his sleep with his cheeks wet, a hand tightening around his throat and weight pinning down his body. Strained breathing echoed in the room to recognize his surroundings and then stared deep into bright green eyes, staring back into him in the dark.
It was Ava. Watching over him and Danny sleep.
"If you make a single sound, then I won't hesitate to cause pain to your partner Spider-Man. You help me, and I help you...do you understand?"
No. It wasn't Ava. This voice was...deeper, raspy, and...more chilling. Peter looks beside him, Danny's sleeping face leaning onto Peter's pillow, his face untouched with their legs tangled together. If Danny were to be hurt by...that creature then...
"Get dressed now"
Peter swiftly and obediently followed its orders. His attention stayed on Danny's sleeping body who twitched from the sudden coldness in the bed beside him. Peter grabs his mask and walks over to Danny's side of the bed, moving Danny's hair from his face to behind his ear, nuzzling his nose against his head, and kissing him.
"I'll be back sweetheart...I promise..."