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Chapter Text

CHAPTER 1: A New Mentor

Peter Parker navigated the bustling hallways of Midtown High School, his head down to avoid eye contact with the crowd. Flash Thompson’s latest taunts still echoed in his mind, a constant reminder of his precarious position as both a high school student and the masked vigilante Spider-Man. Flash had always been bullying Peter because of how smart he was. Peter always tried to avoid Flash but it seemed it was impossible, Flash was everywhere and Peter wasn't very lucky. The bully had become more agressive each time and Peter was actually starting to be affected by it.

Peter slipped into his first-period class just as the bell rang. He took his seat and pulled out his notebook, trying to focus on the lesson. His phone buzzed in his pocket, a reminder of his other life as Spider-man. A quick glance at the screen showed a news alert about a bank robbery downtown. Peter clenched his jaw, resisting the urge to leave but he knew he couldn’t just walk out of class.

The day dragged on, each class blending into the next. Peter’s mind was only half-present; the other half was focused on the potential dangers lurking in the city. He couldn't help but be worried. As soon as the final bell rang, Peter rushed out of the school as fast as he could to go patrol but to also avoid Flash. He headed to a nearby alley to change into his Spider-Man suit.

Swinging through the city, Peter felt a sense of freedom he rarely experienced. The wind in his face, the cityscape blurring beneath him, it was exhilarating. He soon arrived at the bank just in time to see a minor villain making his escape. Peter stopped him but the villain didn't seem to want to care about the Vigilante. Peter wasn't about to let him escape so he shot a web at the villain. Peter engaged in a violent fight with him and managed to web him up for the police before swinging away.

As he landed on a rooftop to catch his breath, Peter felt pain on his abdomen, he was sure to have a bruise on his body when he got home. Peter’s phone buzzed again. This time, it was a text from Aunt May asking him how he was and reminding him about the school science fair. Peter sighed, he was very nervous because it had been the talk of the town for a while now because Tony Stark would be present there. Peter had always been a fan of Tony Stark and now he would be able to see him. It made him anxious but he decided to change back into his regular clothes and hurry home still being nervous about seeing Tony Stark at the school science fair tomorrow.

_____________

The next day, the school gym was packed with students and their projects, all vying for the top prize. Peter set up his display, a small robot designed to assist with household chores. It wasn’t flashy, but it was practical and represented hours of hard work. As he adjusted the final piece, he noticed a commotion at the entrance of the gym. He was finally here..

Tony Stark had arrived, and the room buzzed with excitement. Students and parents alike flocked around him, eager to show off their projects. Even paparazzi were present, taking pictures with their cameras and trying to get Tony's attention to them. Peter watched from a distance, his heart racing. He was a huge fan of Tony Stark, and the idea of meeting him in person was both thrilling and terrifying. He was starting to sweat from being nervous. He didn't even know if Tony would see his project. Peter tried to focus on his project, but he couldn’t help glancing up every few seconds to see where Tony was. It was so stressful to hear the screams and squeals of people as Tony tried to get inside the building.

Tony moved through the crowd with ease, his charisma and confidence drawing people to him like a magnet. Whenever he made a move or gave a glance at something, the flashes of the cameras would instantly go off and soon the only sound filling the entire gym were those of the crowd. Tony made sure to stop at various tables, engaging with excited students, asking thoughtful questions about their work and how they made their projects.

As Tony made his way closer to Peter’s table, Peter’s nerves got the better of him. He couldn't help but panic as seeing the man he admired his whole life getting closer to him. He quickly double-checked the robot’s wiring and made sure everything was in place. He clearly didn’t want to embarrass himself in front of The Tony Stark. Finally, Tony approached Peter’s table, glancing at the robot with interest. Peter stood frozen for a moment, still nervous and unsure of what to say. Tony looked up and smiled.

“Hey there. This your project?”

Peter nodded, his voice catching in his throat. “Y-yes, Mr. Stark." He didn't know if he should say more about his project but he did anyways. "It’s a household assistant robot. It can help with chores and even remind you of tasks you need to do.”

Tony raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “Nice work, kid. What’s your name?”

“Peter. Peter Parker,” Peter replied, finally finding his voice.

“Peter Parker. That’s a name to remember.” Tony examined the robot more closely. “You designed this all by yourself?”

Peter nodded again. “Yes, sir. I’ve been working on it for a few months now. It’s not perfect, but it’s functional.” Peter said shyly, feeling his cheeks getting warmer.

Tony looked genuinely impressed. “Not perfect? This is pretty advanced for a high school project. You’ve got a real knack for this, Peter.” 

Peter felt a surge of pride. “Thanks, Mr. Stark. That means a lot coming from you.” Peter thanked, furiously blushing at the compliments.

“Call me Tony, kid” he said with a grin. “And if you ever need any advice or resources, give me a call. I could mentor you, i mean if you want..” He handed Peter a business card.

Peter took the card, staring at it in disbelief. “I will. Thank you, Mr.Stark. I'll think about it.” Said Peter with a shocked expression.

Tony gave him a nod while smiling at him and moved on to look at other projects, but Peter could hardly focus on anything else for the rest of the evening. He had just received an offer of mentorship from Tony Stark himself. He was so excited to tell it to Ned and Aunt May.

Later that night, Peter returned home, still buzzing with excitement. He could smell the delicious odor of food. He found Aunt May in the kitchen, preparing dinner.

She looked up and smiled as he entered. “How was the science fair, sweetie?”

Peter grinned adorably. “It was amazing! Tony Stark was there, and he gave me his card. He said I could call him if I needed any help.”

Aunt May’s eyes widened in surprise. “Tony Stark? That’s incredible, Peter! I’m so proud of you.” Replied Aunt May, smiling at him fondly.

Peter felt a warmth in his chest at her words. “Thanks, Aunt May. It feels like everything is starting to fall into place.”

As he headed to his room, Peter couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, things were looking up. He knew the path ahead wouldn’t be easy, balancing school, Spider-Man, and now a potential mentorship with Tony Stark.

But for the first time in a long while, Peter felt like he wasn’t alone. He sat down at his desk, looking at the business card Tony had given him. He knew he would need to work hard to live up to the opportunity he had been given. With renewed determination, Peter started planning his next steps, both as Peter Parker and as Spider-Man.

END OF CHAPTER 1

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 2: A Web Of Decisions 

The next morning, Peter woke up to the sound of his alarm blaring. He rubbed his eyes and glanced at his desk where Tony Stark's business card lay. The events of the previous night felt almost surreal. He had met Tony Stark and received an offer of mentorship. Peter couldn't shake off the feeling of excitement mixed with apprehension.

As he got ready for school, he couldn't help but wonder how he would balance everything. Being Spider-Man was already a full-time job, and now he had the chance to learn from one of the greatest minds in the world.

He tucked the business card into his backpack, resolving to make a decision soon. Midtown High was buzzing with gossip about the science fair and Tony Stark’s visit. Peter tried to stay focused, but every conversation seemed to mention the billionaire. He caught snippets of admiration and envy as he walked through the halls.

“Did you see Stark talking to Peter Parker?” Said a guy while looking at Peter with envy.

“I heard he offered him a mentorship!” Replied a girl, whispering to the boy.

“Lucky guy. I wish I had that chance.” Said another with jealousy.

Peter smiled to himself but kept his head down. He didn’t want to attract any more attention than necessary. Flash Thompson, however, seemed to have other plans.

“Hey, Parker!” Flash called out, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “I heard you’re Tony Stark’s new pet project. Don’t get too big for your britches, nerd.”

Peter sighed but didn’t respond. Flash’s taunts were nothing new, and today they barely registered compared to the excitement he felt. However, Flash wasn’t done. He shoved Peter against a locker, causing him to stumble.

“You think you’re special because Stark noticed you?” Flash sneered. “You’re still just a loser.”

Peter gritted his teeth but didn’t retaliate. He knew it wouldn’t solve anything. Instead, he picked himself up and continued to his first class.

During lunch, Peter found Ned in their usual spot in the cafeteria. He was bursting to tell someone about his meeting with Tony Stark.

“Hey, Ned,” Peter said, sitting down with his tray. “You’re not going to believe what happened yesterday.”

“What’s up, dude?” Ned asked, looking happy to see Peter.

“Tony Stark was at the science fair. He liked my project and offered to mentor me!”

Ned’s face didn't budge, he smiled instead.

“I know, Peter! That's all people have been talking about since yesterday! What’s he like? What did he say?” Asked Ned with excitment.

Peter couldn’t help but grin at his friend.

“He’s even cooler in person. He said I have a lot of potential and he even gave me his business card.”

Ned looked genuinely impressed and happy.

“That’s huge, man. I’m so happy for you. Just don’t forget about us little people when you’re working with Tony Stark.” Replied Ned with a grin.

Peter laughed.

“I won’t, Ned. I promise.” Said Peter as he blushed.

The day dragged on, each class feeling longer than the last.

______________

During his final period, Peter’s phone buzzed with a news alert. A fire had broken out in a nearby apartment building. Peter’s heart raced. This was a job for Spider-Man. He quickly packed up his things and headed to the nearest bathroom to change.

Minutes later, he was swinging through the city, his mind focused on the task at hand.

As he approached the burning building, he could see people trapped on the upper floors, smoke billowing out of the windows. Firefighters were already on the scene, but they were struggling to reach the higher levels.

Peter swung into action, breaking through a window and helping the residents to safety. He moved quickly, using his webbing to guide people down to the waiting firefighters. Despite the chaos, Peter felt a sense of clarity and purpose. This was what he was meant to do.

In the midst of his efforts, a section of the ceiling collapsed, pinning him under debris. Pain shot through his body as he struggled to free himself. With a grunt, he managed to push the debris off and continued rescuing the remaining residents, but not without sustaining a few cuts on his face and bruises on his body.

After ensuring everyone was safe, Peter swung away before the authorities could question him. He found a quiet rooftop to catch his breath and check his phone. There were several missed calls and texts from Aunt May, worried about his sudden disappearance from school. He quickly texted her back, assuring her he was fine.

Peter: Hey, Aunt May. I’m okay. Got caught up in something. I’ll explain later.

Aunt May: Peter, you had me worried sick! Please be careful. Come straight home after school.

Peter: I promise. Love you.

As he changed back into his regular clothes, Peter couldn’t stop thinking about the offer from Tony Stark. That evening, Peter sat at his desk, staring at Tony’s card. He took a deep breath and dialed the number. It rang twice before a familiar voice answered.

“Tony Stark.”

“H-hi, Mr. Stark. This is Peter Parker.”

“Peter! Good to hear from you. What’s on your mind?”

Peter hesitated for a moment, then spoke.

“I wanted to thank you for the offer. I’d like to take you up on it. I could really use your help.”

Tony’s voice was warm and encouraging.

“That’s great to hear, Peter. Why don’t you come by Stark Tower this weekend? We can discuss everything in detail.”

Peter’s heart leapt.

“I’d love that. Thank you, Mr. Stark.”

“Call me Tony. And don’t worry, kid. We’ll figure this out together.”

When Saturday morning arrived, Peter dressed carefully, trying to look presentable but not overly formal. He told Aunt May that Tony Stark had invited him to the Stark Tower. She had been so happy for him and had been nervous all weekend. Peter couldn't help but be nervous as well, he was gonna get mentored by the man he had admired his whole life. It felt like a dream. Peter said goodbye to Aunt May as he left the house, on his way to Stark Tower.

As he approached Stark Tower, Peter’s nerves returned. The building was imposing, a symbol of Tony Stark’s genius and success. The sleek, reflective surfaces of the towering structure gleamed in the morning sunlight. Peter entered the grand lobby, feeling small among the throng of bustling professionals and visitors. He approached the receptionist, who looked up with a professional smile.

“Good morning. How can I help you?”

“Hi, I’m Peter Parker. I have an appointment with Mr. Stark.”

The receptionist nodded and checked her computer.

“Ah, yes. Mr. Stark is expecting you. Take the elevator to the top floor. You’ll be directed from there.”

Peter thanked her and made his way to the elevator.

As he ascended, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. The elevator doors opened to reveal a stunning, modern office space with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city.

Tony Stark was waiting for him, a welcoming smile on his face.

“Peter! Welcome to Stark Tower.”

“Thank you, Mr. Stark. I mean, Tony.”

Tony chuckled.

“Come on in. Let’s get started.”

As they walked through the office, Tony’s eyes narrowed slightly when he noticed the cuts on Peter’s face.

“What happened to your face, kid?”

Peter blushed, feeling self-conscious.

“Oh, it’s nothing. I just got a little banged up in gym class.” Said Peter, looking away.

Tony wanted to retort and ask him again. He didn't want to force the kid, Tony didn’t look entirely convinced but didn’t press further.

“Alright, but let’s get those cleaned up. Follow me.” Replied Tony, a worried expression on his face.

Peter felt a mix of embarrassment and gratitude as he followed Tony to a small medical station in the corner of the lab.

Tony took some antiseptic wipes and bandages.

“Here, sit down. I'll help you. Better safe than sorry.”

“Thanks, Mr. Stark. I mean, Tony,” Thanked Peter, slightly blushing, feeling shy under Tony’s concerned gaze.

As Peter got his cuts taken care of, Tony watched with a critical eye.

“You’ve got to be careful, Peter. You’re too smart to be reckless.”

Peter nodded, his shyness making him tremble slightly, avoiding eye contact.

“I know. I’ll be more careful.” Replied Peter, looking shy.

Once Peter was patched up, Tony led him through a tour of the lab. The space was a marvel of technology and innovation, filled with cutting-edge gadgets and prototypes.

“This is where the magic happens,” Tony said with a grin.

“We’ve got projects ranging from advanced AI to new energy solutions. And of course, plenty of cool toys.”

Peter’s eyes widened in awe.

“This is incredible. I can’t believe I’m actually here.” Said Peter, with wide eyes.

Tony laughed.

“Believe it, kid. And if you work hard, you’ll be doing more than just visiting. Now, let’s talk about your interests and how we can develop them.”

They spent the next few hours discussing Peter’s interests, his experiences, and his aspirations. Tony was attentive, offering advice and sharing his own experiences.

He showed Peter around the lab, introducing him to cutting-edge technology and projects in development.

“So, Peter,” Tony began as they entered a section of the lab filled with prototypes and gadgets, “what exactly are you interested in? Robotics? Engineering?”

Peter took a moment to gather his thoughts.

“Well, I’m really into robotics and AI. I’ve been working on a few projects at home, like the robot I showed you at the science fair. I also have a keen interest in biochemistry.”

Tony raised an eyebrow.

“Biochemistry, huh? That’s an interesting combination. You don’t see many high school students with that kind of dual focus.”

Peter shrugged modestly.

“I guess I just find both fields fascinating. Robotics allows me to create things that can help people, and biochemistry lets me understand how the human body works and how to improve it.”

Tony nodded appreciatively.

“I like the way you think, Peter. Versatility is important. Ever think about how you can combine those interests?”

Peter’s eyes lit up. “Actually, I have. I’ve been working on integrating some biochemical sensors into my robotics projects to monitor health metrics in real-time. It’s still in the early stages, but I think it has potential.”

Tony looked genuinely impressed.

“That’s pretty advanced stuff for a high school project. I think you’ve got a lot of potential, Peter. We’re going to make a great team.”

By the end of the day, Peter felt a newfound sense of purpose. He had a mentor, someone who understood the challenges he faced and could help him navigate them. As he left Stark Tower, he couldn’t stop smiling.

The future was uncertain, but Peter Parker was ready to face it head-on. With Tony Stark’s guidance and his own determination, he knew he could balance his life as a high school student and a hero. And maybe, just maybe, he could have a better life.

Later that night, Peter returned home, still buzzing with excitement. He found Aunt May in the kitchen, preparing dinner as usual. She looked up and immediately noticed the cuts on his face. She quickly walked towards him with a worried expression on her face.

“Peter! What happened to you?” she exclaimed, rushing over to inspect his injuries.

Peter had forgotten that he was hiding his cuts from her, he knew how worried she would get so he had made sure to not let her see his cuts. But now, it was too late.

Peter winced slightly as she touched a particularly sore spot.

“I’m fine, Aunt May. Just had a bit of an accident. Nothing serious.” Softly said Peter.

Aunt May’s eyes narrowed with worry.

“You need to be more careful, Peter. You’ve been getting hurt a lot lately. Is there something you’re not telling me?” Asked Aunt May, a concerned expression on her face.

Peter swallowed hard, guilt gnawing at him.

“I promise, I’m okay. Just a few bumps and bruises. I’ll be more careful.” Promised Peter.

She sighed, clearly unconvinced but unwilling to press him further.

“Alright, but if you keep coming home like this, we’re going to have a serious talk. Now, sit down. Dinner’s almost ready.”

Peter nodded and sat at the table, his mind racing. He hated lying to Aunt May, but he couldn’t burden her with the truth about his life as Spider-Man. He had to be more careful, for her sake.

Over dinner, Peter shared the sanitized version of his day with Tony Stark, omitting any mention of Spider-Man. Aunt May listened intently, her eyes lighting up at the mention of Tony’s interest in mentoring Peter.

“That’s wonderful, Peter! I’m so proud of you, sweetie. Just make sure you don’t neglect your schoolwork, okay?” She said, looking at him with affection.

“I won’t, Aunt May. I promise,” Peter said, feeling a surge of warmth at her pride and support.

As he headed to his room later that night, Peter couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of happiness, things were starting to get better now. 

Peter took his clothes off so that he could take a shower, he really needed it. As the hot water ran down his body, he couldn't help but look at his own body. He had several bruises and they looked really bad. He would need to be careful the next few days. He really didn't want to have more injuries than he already had, he also didn't want to worry Aunt May. 

Aunt May was always very protective of Peter, she couldn't stop herself from being worried. It was in her nature.

He soon got out of the shower, wearing his pajamas. He didn't want to go to bed yet.

He sat down at his desk, looking at the business card Tony had given him. He had a mentor, and he was ready to make the most of it. He knew the challenges ahead would be tough, but with Tony’s guidance and his own determination, Peter felt he could handle anything.

END OF CHAPTER 2

TO BE CONTINUED..

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 3: The Burden Of Secrets

The following week at school felt like a blur for Peter. Between juggling his responsibilities as Spider-Man and attending classes, he barely had time to catch his breath. The excitement of having Tony Stark as his mentor was a constant buzz in the back of his mind, but so was the pressure of maintaining his secret identity.

During lunch, Peter met up with Ned at their usual spot in the cafeteria. Ned was still brimming with excitement over Peter’s new mentor.

“Dude, you’re basically an Avenger now!” Ned exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration.

Peter chuckled, though he felt a pang of anxiety at the thought. “I don’t know about that, Ned. I’m just learning from Tony. But yeah, it’s pretty amazing.”

Ned leaned in closer, lowering his voice. “So, when are you going back to Stark Tower?”

“Tony wants me to come by again this weekend,” Peter replied.“We’re going to work on some new projects together.”

“Man, I wish I could come with you,” Ned said wistfully.“Just imagine all the cool stuff he has in his lab.”

Peter smiled.“Maybe someday, Ned. For now, I’ve got to keep it low-key.”

Ned nodded understandingly. “Yeah, I get it. Just promise you’ll tell me everything.”

“Deal,” Peter agreed, bumping fists with his friend.

As the day progressed, Peter couldn’t shake the feeling that he was being watched. He glanced around the halls, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Flash’s usual taunts were there, but they barely registered. His focus was elsewhere.

In chemistry class, Peter’s mind wandered back to the fire he had helped with as Spider-Man. He couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt about lying to Aunt May. She deserved to know the truth, but he couldn’t risk her safety.

After school, Peter headed home, his backpack slung over one shoulder. Aunt May was waiting for him at the kitchen table, a concerned look on her face.

“Peter, can we talk?” she asked, motioning for him to sit.

Peter’s heart sank. He knew this conversation was coming, but he wasn’t prepared for it.

“Sure, Aunt May. What’s up?” he asked, trying to sound casual as he sat down.

She took a deep breath, her eyes searching his face.

“Peter, I’ve noticed you’ve been getting hurt a lot lately. You say it’s just accidents, but I’m worried. Is there something you’re not telling me?”

Peter swallowed hard, his mind racing for an explanation. “I promise, Aunt May, it’s nothing serious. I’ve just been a little clumsy lately.”

Aunt May’s expression softened, but her concern didn’t waver. “I just want you to be safe, Peter. You’re all I have.”

Peter reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “I know, Aunt May. And I promise I’ll be more careful.”

She sighed, squeezing his hand gently. “Alright, but if anything happens, you tell me, okay?”

“I will,” Peter assured her, his chest tightening with the weight of his secret.

Later that evening, Peter sat at his desk, trying to focus on his homework. His phone buzzed with a message from Tony.

Tony: Hey, kid. How’s it going?

Peter smiled, feeling a surge of excitement.

Peter: Hey, Tony. It’s going well. Just working on some homework.

Tony: Nerd. Got any plans for the weekend?

Peter: Just coming to see you.

Tony: Good. I’ve got a surprise for you.

Peter’s curiosity was piqued.

Peter: What kind of surprise?

Tony: You’ll see. Just be here Saturday morning.

Peter: Can’t wait!

The anticipation of what Tony had planned kept Peter’s mind occupied for the rest of the week. He went through his routine, balancing school, Spider-Man duties, and spending time with Aunt May. The bruises from the fire were still painful, making every movement a reminder of the danger he constantly faced.

On Saturday morning, Peter woke up early, his excitement making it impossible to sleep. He dressed quickly, opting for a casual but neat outfit. Aunt May had been buzzing with pride all week, and she made sure he had a good breakfast before he left.

“Have fun, Peter. And be careful,” she said, giving him a hug.

“I will, Aunt May. Thanks,” Peter replied, hugging her back before heading out the door.

The journey to Stark Tower felt like a dream.

As he approached the towering building, Peter’s nerves returned, but he pushed them aside. He had to stay focused.

The receptionist recognized him and greeted him with a smile.

“Good morning, Peter. Mr. Stark is expecting you. You know the way.”

Peter thanked her and took the elevator to the top floor.

As the doors opened, Tony was waiting for him, his trademark smirk in place.

“Morning, kid. Ready for some fun?” Tony asked.

“Always,” Peter replied, his excitement bubbling over.

Tony led him into the lab, where a covered object sat in the middle of the room.

“So, I’ve been working on something I think you’ll like.”

Peter’s eyes widened. “Is that the surprise?”

Tony nodded, pulling off the cover to reveal a sleek, high-tech project. “We’re going to upgrade the AI on this drone. It’s got potential for some amazing applications.”

Peter stared at the project in awe. “This is incredible, Tony. Thank you so much.”

“Don’t mention it. You deserve it. Now, let’s get to work,” Tony said, a proud glint in his eyes.

They dove into the project, Peter following Tony’s instructions closely. The hours flew by as they worked, Tony explaining complex concepts and Peter absorbing everything like a sponge.

Peter’s bruises ached with every movement, but he pushed through, determined to make the most of this opportunity.

At one point, they encountered a problem with the wiring. Tony handed Peter a soldering iron.

“Here, try to connect these circuits.”

Peter nodded, his hands trembling slightly as he took the tool. He leaned over the project, focusing intently on the delicate work. Just as he made the connection, a spark flew, and the project lit up in flames.

“Whoa!” Peter yelped, jumping back in alarm.

“Crap!” Tony exclaimed, quickly hitting a button on the wall.

A sprinkler system activated, dousing the fire—and them—with water.

Peter stood there, drenched and shivering, his clothes clinging to his body.

Tony looked at him and started laughing.

“Well, that was an adventure,” Tony said, shaking water off his hands.

Peter apologized nervously, his face turning red. “M-Mr.Stark, i-i'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-”

“Hey, it happens. Good news is, we’ve got plenty of backups. Bad news is, you need a change of clothes,” Tony replied, still chuckling.

He led Peter to a locker room and handed him a towel and a set of clothes.

“Here, change into these. I’ll get us something to eat.”

Peter nodded, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. He dried off and changed into the dry clothes Tony provided. As he looked in the mirror, he saw the bruises on his body and winced, hoping Tony wouldn’t notice.

Once he was dressed, Peter found Tony waiting for him in a lounge area with a spread of food on a table.

“Hope you’re hungry,” Tony said with a grin.

“Yes..,” Peter admitted, taking a seat.

As they ate, Tony looked at Peter thoughtfully. “You know, kid, you’ve got a lot of potential. I’m glad we’re working together.”

Peter felt his face heat up, the compliment making him both proud and shy. “Thanks, Tony. I’m really grateful for this opportunity.”

After they finished eating, Tony led Peter to the common room.

As they entered, Peter’s eyes widened in awe.

The room was filled with the Avengers. Natasha Romanoff was lounging on a couch, reading a book. Steve Rogers and Clint Barton were playing a game of pool, while Thor and Bruce Banner were deep in conversation.

“Hey, everyone,” Tony called out. “Meet Peter Parker. He’s going to be working with me on some projects.”

All eyes turned to Peter, and he suddenly felt very small.

“Hi,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Steve Rogers walked over, extending a hand. “Nice to meet you, Peter. Tony’s told us a lot about you.”

Peter shook his hand, feeling a little less nervous. “Nice to meet you too, Mr. Rogers.”

“Call me Steve,” he replied with a smile.

Natasha put her book down and walked over, her gaze assessing. “So you’re the kid Stark’s been raving about. Nice to meet you.”

Peter gulped, feeling the weight of her scrutiny. “Nice to meet you too, Ms. Romanoff.”

“Natasha,” she corrected with a smirk.

Thor’s booming voice interrupted.

“Welcome, young Peter! Any friend of Stark’s is a friend of ours.”

Peter managed a small smile. “Thanks, Mr. Thor.”

“Just Thor,” he said, clapping Peter on the back, nearly knocking him over.

Bruce approached, offering a gentler handshake. “Nice to meet you, Peter. I’m Bruce.”

“Nice to meet you, Dr. Banner,” Peter said, feeling a bit more comfortable.

Clint waved from the pool table.

“Hey, kid. You play?”

Peter shook his head. “Not really. I’m more into science stuff..” Peter replied shyly.

Clint grinned. “Figures. Don’t let Stark corrupt you too much.”

The room erupted in laughter, and Peter felt a wave of relief as the tension eased with Clint's joke. He still couldn't believe he was in the same room with the Avengers. His nerves were on edge, but the friendly atmosphere helped him relax a bit.

Tony patted Peter on the shoulder. “Alright, kid. Let’s get back to the lab. We’ve got some work to do.”

Peter nodded, grateful for the excuse to leave the room. As they walked back to the lab, he could feel the bruises on his body throbbing, but he pushed through the pain, determined to impress Tony.

Back in the lab, Tony set up a new project for them to work on. This time, they were assembling a complex robotic arm with enhanced sensory feedback. Tony explained the intricacies of the design while Peter listened intently, his mind racing to keep up with the advanced concepts.

“Alright, Peter, I’ll handle the programming. You work on the mechanical assembly,” Tony instructed.

Peter got to work, his hands moving swiftly as he pieced together the various components. The hours flew by, and despite the lingering pain from his bruises, Peter felt a sense of accomplishment with every step they completed.

They were deep in their work when Tony’s phone buzzed. He glanced at it and sighed. “Looks like we’re due for a break. Come on, let’s get some air.”

They headed to the rooftop of Stark Tower, where the view of the city was breathtaking. Peter leaned against the railing, trying to mask his discomfort from his injuries.

Tony joined him, his expression contemplative. “You’re a natural at this, Peter. You remind me a lot of myself at your age.”

Peter blushed, feeling both proud and shy. “Thanks, Tony. It means a lot coming from you.”

They stood in silence for a few moments, taking in the view. Then Tony turned to Peter, his gaze serious. “I’ve noticed you’ve been a bit stiff today. Everything okay?”

Peter hesitated, his mind racing for an explanation. “Yeah, just a bit sore from gym class. Nothing serious.”

Tony nodded, but his eyes held a hint of suspicion. “Alright, but remember, you can talk to me if something’s bothering you.”

Peter nodded, feeling a pang of guilt for not being completely honest. “I will. Thanks, Tony.”

As they returned to the lab, Peter’s mind was still swirling with thoughts. He wanted to tell Tony the truth about being Spider-Man, but he wasn’t sure how Tony would react. For now, he decided to focus on the work at hand.

The rest of the day was spent fine-tuning the robotic arm. Peter’s confidence grew with each successful step, and by the time they were done, he felt a deep sense of satisfaction.

“That’s it for today,” Tony said, stretching his arms. “You did great, Peter. Go home and get some rest.”

Peter nodded, gathering his things. “Thanks, Tony. I had a great time.”

As he left Stark Tower, Peter couldn’t help but feel a surge of happiness. Despite the challenges and the secrets he carried, he knew he was on the right path. With Tony’s guidance and his own determination, he was ready to face whatever came his way.

Back home, Aunt May greeted him with a warm smile. “How was your day, sweetie?”

Peter smiled back, feeling a sense of normalcy wash over him. “It was amazing, Aunt May. I learned so much.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” she said, giving him a hug. “Just don’t overwork yourself, okay?”

“I won’t,” Peter promised, hugging her back.

Later that night, as Peter lay in bed, his mind drifted back to the day’s events. Meeting the Avengers, working with Tony, and the challenges he faced. He knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy, but he was ready to take it on.

With a mentor like Tony Stark and the support of Aunt May, Peter felt more confident than ever. He closed his eyes, a smile on his face, and drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the possibilities that lay ahead.

_______________

The next few weeks flew by as Peter continued his mentorship with Tony. Each day brought new challenges and opportunities to learn. Peter’s bruises slowly healed, but the memory of the fire and the dangers he faced as Spider-Man remained fresh in his mind.

Tony had become more than just a mentor; he was a friend and a source of inspiration. Peter looked forward to their sessions, eager to soak up as much knowledge as he could.

One Saturday morning, Peter arrived at Stark Tower to find Tony waiting with a new project.

“Morning, kid. Ready for some fun?” Tony asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

“Always,” Peter replied, his excitement evident.

Tony led him to a section of the lab where a sleek, futuristic suit was displayed. “We’re going to work on upgrading the AI for this bad boy.”

Peter’s eyes widened in awe. “Is this a new Iron Man suit?”

Tony nodded. “Yep. But this one’s going to be different. We’re integrating some of the latest tech, and I want your input on the AI.”

Peter felt a surge of pride. “I’d be honored, Tony.”

They spent the next few hours working on the suit, bouncing ideas off each other and troubleshooting issues. Peter’s confidence grew with each successful step, and Tony’s praise fueled his determination.

At one point, they encountered a glitch in the AI’s coding. Tony handed Peter the keyboard. “Give it a shot, kid.”

Peter’s fingers flew over the keys as he analyzed the problem. With a few adjustments, he managed to fix the glitch, and the AI responded smoothly.

“Nice work,” Tony said, clapping him on the back. “You’ve got a real knack for this.”

Peter blushed, feeling a mix of pride and shyness. “Thanks, Tony. I’m learning from the best.”

As they wrapped up their work, Tony glanced at his watch. “Time for a break. Let’s grab some food.”

They headed to the common room, where the Avengers were gathered once again. This time, Peter felt a bit more at ease, though he still couldn’t shake his shyness.

Natasha looked up from her book and smiled. “Hey, Peter. How’s it going?”

“Good, thanks,” Peter replied, still feeling very shy.

Steve Rogers walked over, a friendly smile on his face. “Glad to see you back, Peter. How’s the mentorship going?”

“It’s amazing. I’m learning so much,” Peter said, his enthusiasm shining through.

Thor clapped Peter on the back again, nearly knocking him over again. “Good to hear, young Peter! Stark’s a good teacher, if you can handle his ego.”

The room erupted in laughter, and Peter couldn’t help but smile.

As they sat down to eat, Tony leaned over to Peter. “You’re doing great, kid. Keep it up.”

Peter felt a swell of pride and gratitude. He knew he still had a lot to learn, but with Tony’s guidance and the support of the Avengers, he felt ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.

For now, he was content to enjoy the moment, surrounded by people who believed in him. The future was bright, and Peter Parker was ready to embrace it with open arms.

END OF CHAPTER 3

TO BE CONTINUED..

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 4: Secrets and Sacrifices.

The days flew by, and Peter found himself juggling the increasing demands of being Spider-Man with his responsibilities as Tony Stark's mentee and his regular schoolwork. The nights were the toughest, patrolling the city and trying to keep up with his homework.

One evening, while swinging through Queens, Peter's spider-sense flared. He stopped abruptly, scanning the area for danger. Below, a group of masked thugs was robbing a small convenience store. Without hesitation, Peter leaped into action.

He landed in the alley behind the store and approached the entrance cautiously. As he peered around the corner, he saw the thugs brandishing weapons at the terrified cashier. Peter's blood boiled. He couldn't let this happen.

"Hey, guys! You know, robbing stores is so last year," Peter quipped as he swung into the store, kicking the first thug in the chest.

The fight erupted. The thugs were tougher than they looked, and Peter quickly found himself outnumbered. One of them swung a metal pipe, catching Peter in the ribs and another on his back. He gasped in pain but didn't back down.

"That all you got?" Peter taunted, though his voice wavered slightly.

Another thug lunged at him, knife in hand. Peter dodged, but the knife grazed his arm, leaving a deep cut. He winced, pushing through the pain. He couldn't afford to lose focus.

As the fight continued, Peter managed to disarm two more thugs, but the remaining ones were relentless. One of them tackled him to the ground, pummeling his face with heavy punches. Peter's vision blurred, and he struggled to break free. Desperation fueled his strength, and he managed to kick the thug off him.

Bruised and battered, Peter stood up, breathing heavily. The thugs regrouped, readying themselves for another attack. Peter knew he had to end this quickly. With a burst of energy, he webbed their weapons to the ceiling and delivered a series of swift, powerful punches, knocking them out one by one.

Finally, the store was silent. The cashier peeked out from behind the counter, eyes wide with gratitude. "Thank you, Spider-Man. You saved my life!"

Peter managed a weak smile, trying to mask the pain he felt. "Just doing my job."

As he left the store, Peter's adrenaline began to wear off, and the full extent of his injuries hit him. He clutched his side, feeling the sharp pain of broken ribs. His face throbbed where he'd been punched, and his arm burned from the knife wound. He needed to get home, but he couldn't let Aunt May see him like this.

Peter pulled out his phone and texted Ned.

Peter: Hey, can I crash at your place tonight? Had a rough night.

Ned responded almost immediately.

Ned: Sure thing, dude. You okay?

Peter winced as he typed his reply.

Peter: Just a little banged up. I'll explain when I get there.

Peter texted Aunt May next.

Peter: Hey, Aunt May. Staying at Ned's tonight to work on a school project. Don't wait up for me.

Aunt May's reply was almost instant.

Aunt May: Alright, sweetie. Be safe. Love you.

Peter sighed in relief and headed to Ned's house, his movements slow and painful. When he finally arrived, Ned opened the door, his eyes widening in shock at the sight of Peter's injuries.

"Peter! What happened to you?" Ned exclaimed, ushering him inside.

Peter collapsed onto the couch, wincing as he tried to find a comfortable position. "I got jumped by some guys on my way home. Tried to fight them off, but they were tougher than I expected."

Ned grabbed a first-aid kit and started tending to Peter's wounds. "Man, you're crazy. You should've called the cops."

Peter managed a weak laugh. "Yeah, well, you know me. Can't resist playing hero."

Ned shook his head, worry etched on his face. "You need to be more careful, Peter. You're not indestructible."

"I know, Ned. I'll be more careful," Peter promised, though he knew it was a promise he might not be able to keep.

The next morning, Peter woke up feeling stiff and sore. Every movement was a painful reminder of the previous night's fight. He checked his phone and saw a message from Tony.

Tony: Morning, kid. Ready to start a new project? Come by the tower when you can.

Peter groaned, dreading the thought of facing Tony with his injuries. But he couldn't let Tony down. He quickly sent a reply.

Peter: On my way.

After grabbing a quick breakfast and thanking Ned for his help, Peter made his way to Stark Tower. The journey felt longer than usual, each step sending jolts of pain through his body. By the time he arrived, he was exhausted.

The receptionist greeted him with a smile. "Good morning, Peter. Mr. Stark is expecting you. Go right up."

Peter nodded, trying to hide his discomfort as he headed to the elevator. When the doors opened on the top floor, Tony was there, his usual smirk in place.

"Hey, kid. Ready to get to work?" Tony asked, then his eyes widened as he took in Peter's appearance. "What the hell happened to you?!"

Peter tried to brush it off. "Just a rough night. I'm fine, really."

Tony's expression darkened with worry and anger. "Don't give me that. You look like you got hit by a truck. Who did this to you??"

"It's nothing," Peter insisted, trying to downplay the situation.

"Nothing?" Tony snapped. "This is not nothing, Peter. Come on, we're going to see Bruce."

Before Peter could protest, Tony grabbed his wrist and dragged him toward the common room where the Avengers were gathered. As they entered, the room fell silent. Steve, Natasha, Clint, Thor, and Bruce turned to see what the commotion was about.

"What happened to him?" Steve asked, his voice filled with concern.

"Got into a fight," Tony said tersely. "Bruce, he needs medical attention."

Peter felt his face flush with embarrassment as all eyes turned to him. "I'm fine, really. Just a few bruises."

"Those aren't just bruises," Natasha said, her gaze sharp and assessing. "You look like you went ten rounds with the Hulk."

Bruce stepped forward, his expression gentle but firm. "Let's get you checked out, Peter. Come on."

Peter followed Bruce to a medical area, acutely aware of the worried looks from the rest of the Avengers. The others also followed them. He felt panic rising in his chest, fearing they might discover his secret identity. Once in the medical bay, Bruce motioned for Peter to sit on the examination table.

"Take off your shirt," Bruce instructed. "I need to see the extent of your injuries."

"I'm okay! It's only my face!" Peter said, panicking at the thought of them seeing his injuries.

"Peter, take it off. Don't worry, i just need to take a look" Bruce said, softly.

Peter hesitated, but the look of genuine concern on Bruce's face made him comply. He winced as he removed his shirt, revealing huge bruises and cuts all over his torso and back. The sight made Bruce's eyes widen in alarm and the others had shocked expressions on their faces. Peter could feel Tony's anger from miles away.

"These are serious injuries, Peter," Bruce said, reaching for medical tools. He began to clean the cuts and examine the bruises, his touch gentle but thorough.

The rest of the Avengers were watching anxiously. Tony's worry deepened and his anger simmered just beneath the surface. "Why didn't you go to a hospital?"

Peter looked down, his voice barely above a whisper. "We can't afford it."

Tony's expression softened with understanding, but he still pressed on. "What about your family? Where were they?"

"I live with my Aunt May, i was alone when this happened," Peter replied, his voice trembling slightly.

The Avengers exchanged worried glances.

Natasha's eyes narrowed as she asked, "Was it your Aunt May who did this to you?"

Peter's eyes widened in shock and he shook his head vehemently. "No! Aunt May would never hurt me. She loves me."

The Avengers didn't look convinced. Steve stepped forward, his voice gentle. "It's okay, Peter. You don't have to be scared. We're here to help you. Nothing will happen to you."

Peter's eyes filled with tears, but he managed to hold them back. "I'm telling the truth. Aunt May didn't do this. Please, believe me."

Tony sighed, his anger melting into frustration. "Alright, kid. We believe you. But remember, we're here for you. You can tell us anything."

Peter nodded, feeling a mix of relief and sadness. He hated that they thought Aunt May could hurt him, but he was grateful for their concern. "Thanks, Tony. Thanks, everyone."

Bruce finished treating Peter's injuries and gave him some painkillers. "You'll need to rest and take it easy for a few days. No strenuous activity."

"Got it.." Peter said, grateful for their help but eager to get out of the spotlight.

As Peter left the medical bay, Tony put a hand on his shoulder still looking at him with concern. "Remember, kid, you're not alone. We're here for you."

Peter smiled weakly. "I know. Thanks, Tony."

With Tony's support and the concern of the Avengers, Peter felt a little less alone in his struggles. He knew he had to be more careful, not just for his own sake, but for the people who cared about him.

Peter texted Aunt May again.

Peter: Hey, Aunt May. Staying another night at Ned's. Still working on the project.

Aunt May: Alright, sweetie. I'll be waiting for you. Love you.

Peter sighed in relief and headed back to Ned's place. Ned was waiting for him, concern still etched on his face. "You okay, Peter? You look worse than before."

Peter managed a tired smile. "Just got a thorough check-up from Bruce. I'll be alright."

Ned nodded, but he couldn't hide his worry. "You sure you don't need to go to a hospital or something?"

Peter shook his head. "No, Bruce patched me up pretty well. Just need to rest and let these bruises heal."

As the night wore on, Peter rested at Ned's place, grateful for his friend's support. He knew he couldn't keep putting Ned in this position, but for now, he didn't have much choice. Aunt May believed his story about the school project, and he was determined to keep her from worrying.

The next morning, Peter woke up feeling slightly better. His face looked almost back to normal, thanks to his accelerated healing. He winced as he moved, the bruises on his torso and back still painful but fading. He knew he'd have to be careful not to draw any more attention to himself.

When he finally returned to Stark Tower, the Avengers were there, waiting for him. Tony's eyes widened in surprise as he saw Peter's face.

"Kid, you heal quite fast," Tony remarked, trying to mask his ongoing concern.

Peter laughed it off, though it came out more like a nervous chuckle. "Yeah, I guess I'm a fast healer. Always have been."

The Avengers seemed to accept his explanation, though Tony still looked skeptical. They didn't press further, which was a relief to Peter. He couldn't afford for them to dig deeper and discover his secret.

After another long day at Stark Tower, Peter headed home. Aunt May greeted him at the door, her face lighting up with a smile.

"Welcome home, Peter! How did the project go?" she asked, pulling him into a gentle hug.

Peter hugged her back, careful not to wince. "It went great, Aunt May. Ned and I finished everything. Thanks for letting me stay over."

Aunt May cupped his face, looking him over. "You look tired, honey. Are you sure you're okay?"

Peter nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "I'm fine, just a bit worn out. I'm going to head to bed early."

"Alright, sweetie. Get some rest," Aunt May said, still watching him with a hint of worry.

Peter made his way to his room, closing the door behind him. He collapsed onto his bed, exhausted but relieved. He couldn't shake the feeling that the Avengers still suspected something, but for now, he was safe.

________________

Later that evening, Tony and the Avengers were just chilling in the common room. They were all just chilling, their expressions serious.

"Alright, we need to talk about Peter," Tony began, his tone grave.

Steve nodded. "I've been thinking about it too. Those injuries... they were severe. And the fact that he says his Aunt May didn't do it... I'm not sure we should take that at face value."

Natasha leaned back in her chair, her eyes thoughtful. "He's scared, that's clear. If someone close to him is hurting him, he might not want to admit it."

Bruce sighed, rubbing his temples. "But we don't have any concrete evidence. We can't just accuse his aunt without knowing for sure."

Clint spoke up, his voice firm. "We need to keep an eye on him. Make sure he's safe. If there's anything we can do to help, we should."

Thor nodded in agreement. "The boy is brave, but even the bravest need support. We must stand by him."

Tony ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident on his face. "I just hate feeling helpless. He's a good kid, and he's been through a lot. We need to make sure he's okay."

Steve placed a hand on Tony's shoulder. "We'll figure this out, Tony. Together. For now, we keep watch and offer him our support. If something is wrong, we'll be there for him."

The Avengers nodded in agreement, their resolve strengthening. They didn't have all the answers, but they were determined to protect Peter and uncover the truth, whatever it might be.

_______________

Peter's life gradually returned to its new normal. The bruises on his torso and back were healing, though they still ached. He was more cautious on his patrols, not wanting to raise any more suspicions.

One evening, as he swung through the city, he couldn't help but think about the Avengers' concern. They believed Aunt May might be hurting him, and that thought weighed heavily on his heart. He needed to find a way to reassure them without revealing his secret.

Returning home, he found Aunt May in the kitchen, preparing dinner. She looked up and smiled as he walked in.

"Hey, Peter. Dinner will be ready in a few minutes. How was your day?" she asked.

Peter forced a smile, trying to hide his inner turmoil. "It was good, Aunt May. Just a bit busy with schoolwork."

Aunt May nodded, her eyes searching his face. "You know you can talk to me about anything, right? If something's bothering you..."

Peter's heart ached at her concern. "I know, Aunt May. Thanks. I'm just tired, that's all."

As they sat down to dinner, Peter couldn't shake the feeling of guilt. The Avengers were trying to protect him, and Aunt May was doing her best to look after him. He was caught in the middle, trying to keep everyone safe while hiding his true identity.

That night, as he lay in bed, Peter made a silent vow. He would find a way to balance his responsibilities and protect his loved ones. The Avengers had his back, and he had theirs. He just hoped he could keep his secret safe long enough to figure everything out.

And as always, the city of New York awaited its friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, ready to face whatever challenges came his way.

END OF CHAPTER 4

TO BE CONTINUED..

Chapter Text

Dear Readers,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself as a close friend of the author of this story. I’m reaching out to all of you who have followed her work with enthusiasm.

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that the author has sadly passed away. Her creativity, passion, and love for storytelling really touched me, and it meant the world to her to see people enjoying what she had created. She used to write so many stories and she would read them to me while planning to post them here. Unfortunately, she wasn’t even able to finish and post her first story of so many. She always spoke fondly when she told me her stories and was incredibly grateful that I listened.

Unfortunately, this also means that her story will remain unfinished. I know a few of you were awaiting the next chapters, and I'm truly sorry that her tale will not be able to continue. However, I hope that the chapters she did leave behind will continue to inspire at least a few people, just as they were intended to.

Thank you for being part of this really small journey with her. It meant so much to her to share her world and likes with you, and I know she would have been touched by your kindness and understanding during this difficult time.

She could’ve done so much more if she had more time but we sadly can’t predict life. I don’t want to give up this account so I’ll continue to come here as the friend who listened to her beautiful stories. I hope you will understand the situation and forgive my tardiness to announce this.

I’m very sorry.

With warm regards,
Your Dear Friend.