"What did you summon me for MJ?", Loki walks out of the elevator, finding a room full of interns and suddenly insecure about not using an illusion. Aside from Abe and Eric though, they were the only one to care. "And why is Peter here?".
The teen runs to Loki, as promised, giving him a tight enough hug to leave the god partly out of breath. "What is this for?", Loki asks unsure, yet comfortable. "Thought you needed it".
Walking back, Loki heads over to Ned at MJ's order, Peter walking up to her and May. "You sure about this sweetie?", Peter nods, hugging her quickly. "I need to do this, delaying it won't help me and I can't ghost them". She pulls him back for seconds, "I'm so proud of you sweetie, we'll be here if you need anything".
Now, MJ. "Ready loser?", Peter nods confidently, "Yes, I'm ready". He hesitates for a second, collecting all his confidence he swings on the tip of his toes, giving MJ a kiss. "Love you", he whispers stepping back, miraculously not blushing unlike MJ who gained a light one herself. For the first time since she can remember, she's speechless.
Peter smiles and waves at the group, "May, MJ, can you explain...everything before you head up please?", both nod, waving back and wishing him luck as the elevator doors close. "Ms FRIDAY?".
"Yes Peter?", She replies, Peter looking up out of curtesy. "I know they planned a birthday party. Don't tell them I know and please don't start anything. I need to talk to them and music, lights, confetti, whatever Mr Stark set up is not going to help".
Technically, this would be against a direct order, but hearing Peter's reasoning and plea, she takes a second to find a technicality. "Alright Peter, don't tell boss". He nods, getting a few more, deep breaths before he's there.
"Surprise!", he knew and felt their shouting coming, luckily, FRIDAY followed through and it was only their voice that filled the room. At the lack of their full surprise, most avengers start arguing and blaming each other for forgetting or ruining something, Nat the first to realise something was up. "Peter, everything ok?"
He stood at the hallway's opening, looking into their living space. Pressed lips, serious eyes, tense expression; unmoving. "Pete?", Tony asks, first to the group and closest to the kid. Now he walks, silent steps and not responsive, wrapping Tony tight in a hug, his head under Tony's chin. "Kid? What's this for?"
Peter digs his face further into the crook of Tony's neck, both smiling, enjoying the hug for another minute before he replies. "Hi, Mr Metal". Everyone freezes. Every other avenger present dropped their fond expressions for fear and confusion. Tony worst of all, Peter able to feel the way every muscle tensed, looking up to see the terror in his eyes, which thanks to Karen's videos he understands its from fear.
Humming the tune of Il Mondo he burrows back into Tony's neck, this confusing everyone except the billionaire who hummed back, relaxing through the song. Once it's over, Pete steps back, grabbing Tony's hand and leading him to the couch. "I think we need to talk".
Rushing to their preferred seats, everyone else joins them. Couples in their love seats, The twins, the spies and uncle Scott all on one couch, everyone remaining on another. Peter and Tony alone on their own. "What do you want to know kid?", Tony asks, undeterred and surprising himself more than the rest, understressed.
"Not as much as you think", he grimaces, looking sheepish. "Karen kinda hacked into your security cameras, showed me... stuff, answered a lot". Again, the avengers freeze, worried. "That's why you were 'sick', wasn't it?", Nat reasons. He nods. "The parallels... hard to ignore. The nicknames, our conversations, things I'd heard or overheard... all that clued me in". He explains, the Avengers struck between worry over Peter and anger at each other for being so sloppy. "MJ confirmed it last Thursday and I asked Karen to made sure".
Tony places a hand on Pete's shoulder, regaining his attention. "And you're not angry? Not disappointed?"
"I was", Peter, tries to respond, sputtering once he realises a mistake "angry I mean. You all lied to me, hid this from me. I wasn't certain how much of the last 2 months was real". He removes his hand, scowling and grinding his teeth. The rest of the Avengers not too dissimilar. "We're sorry", Tony says. Pete smiles, reminiscing about their first call and chat after. "I can't blame you- I mean, I can, but I'm not certain I wouldn't have acted any better".
Scott scoffs, getting all the attention, "knowing you kid? You probably would've". Everyone's forced to agree. "And No", Peter adds, all eyes returning to him hugging Tony. "I'm happy to have met you Tony". His heart melts, first time of the many that he hugs Peter as tightly as he's being hugged.
"Hey, why does Tony get all the hugs?", Clint whines, Tony swatting him away with one hand, "Wait your turn Barton", he growls, Pete giggling from the embrace. "There better be turns", Clint grumbles, all pouty on his cushion. As much as Tony hated this, Peter eventually did pull away, taking his suggestion. "Mr Turtle, Mr Wolf". He says, having walked to the couple's love seat. "Steve", the Captain smiles, "and Bucky, if you want", Buck adds. Peter jumping over both, almost having to lie on them so to hug them both.
First, Steve. "Everything turned out fine, didn't it?", he smirks, whispering into Steve's ear. He nods, the slight hint of a beard making a Pete giggle as it rubs on his cheek. "Always on your side". He adds, giving Bucky his.
"Now I know everything that happened", Bucky hears Pete whisper, "and like I promised, I do not think any less of you over what happened to you". He squeezes a little into the hug, a quiet gulp only the ones on the chair can hear. "Thanks Kid", Bucky replies, holding back a sob, dropping a Peter back on the ground, subtly wiping a tear away.
"Pete", Steve calls before he walks away. "That Thanks was for us". They each take their rings off, showing them to Peter. "You're welcome Mr- Steve, Bucky". Leaving both soldiers to snuggle and gossip, it's Bruce's turn. "Hey Peter", he waves. "Mr Owl", Pete grins, first hug where he isn't towered over. "I don't know who called you weak or good for nothing, but I've never heard anything more wrong". Bruce chuckles, half happy no one else heard that, letting go. "I know Pete, but thanks for reminding me".
"Oh! And Dr Banner-", "Bruce", he's corrected. "Ok, Bruce, if you or Mr Hulk need, I can always talk you through like that time, i-if you need". Bruce pulls Pete in for another one, partly at Hulk's internal request. "I don't know if you can handle the big guy, but thanks. For the offer and... our talks". He whispers the end part, letting Peter move onto Thor.
"Mr Goat, greatest of all time". He giggles, Thor smiling proudly at the acronym. "I should be the first to thank you", the god starts ahead of the teen, Peter pausing him with his hug. "I know Mr Thor, and I would be honoured if Loki saw me as a Brother. S-s-same with you, if you want".
Thor has to hold himself back from fully bear hugging Peter and shattering his back, "the honour is mine!", he booms, Pete wincing at the volume for which Thor apologises. "It's alright Thor", he smiles, Thor dropping him back on the floor.
"My turn! My turn!", Clint whines from his couch, getting a pillow thrown at him from Tony. It misses but Nat bonks him with it anyways. Peter lets him have it, a turn he shared with his kids. "Mr Parrot, Mr Cheetah, Ms Cat?", they all nod respectively, Peter hugging them in that order.
Unlike Thor, Clint does the full bear hug, Peter's groaning muffled by the archer's shirt, only letting go after another threat from Nat. "Best dad, right?", Pete chuckles. This goes right to Clint's head who wears it like a badge of honour, "and best uncle too kid- uhh, yeah", he ruffles his hair, reluctantly ending his turn.
"Ms Cat". Wanda probably gives him the softest hug so far, "Nah, Call me Wanda, or... Big Sis Wanda if you want". "Absolutely, and if you ever want to talk about... them, I can come over right away". She winks, letting go, "same here Pete". Pietro was happy to be last, he already was flustered enough about Peter even before learning he knew. Their last meeting... personal. Even with the extra time and his speed cognition he still came up empty. "Mr Cheetah", Pietro nods.
"How's the anxiety?", Peter whispers into a hug, Pietro's heart already racing above what any human should have, "G-G-good". Pete grins, "that's great", he no longer whispers. "And now we don't need to use Ms FRIDAY when you want to talk or hang out, you can just text me". This change in the mood helps Pietro come out of his panic. "Yeah, cool".
It's short lived, as there's one more thing Peter needs to do. "And thanks for the advice", Peter says, kissing him on the cheek, like the speedster did the week before. It'll take Clint half an hour to fully reset him to functional again.
Scott is the first to hug Pete instead, "Thanks for taking care of Cassie, she asks about you", he hums, shaking him side to side. Peter hugs back, smiling, "if she or you want, I'd be happy to babysit again". Scott beams, as even Maggie and Jim have started asking who this Peter kid is. "She'd love it".
Sam isn't one for hugs, but he still accepts it when Peter offers it, no he totally didnt love it. "Thanks for the patch work Kid, and the books". Sam then whistles, a light whirring and buzzing that gets closer, followed by beeping. "From both of us kid".
"Redwing!", Peter greets, the drone just as excited as it sneaks into the hug. "Hey! This is my hug". Redwing beeps a swear in Morse, to Peter's embarrassment, enjoying the hug and pats from Pete. "Ok, Ok, Red. If you need another fix, call me". Red beeps, Sam smirks. "Great, finally a mechanic I trust", This does as intended: insulting Tony. "Shut it Chicken, or I'll make you fly like one".
Now at her turn, she voices her curiosity, "This seems to be a lot more about us than you kid, why?". Pete scratches his neck, "I saw the videos, and MJ kinda explained you didn't tell me because you were scared, that it was the only reason her threat worked. I already ghosted you for a week and I didn't want you guys to be afraid".
It earns him a chorus of 'Aww's' and a hug from Nat. "Your secrets are safe with me". She whispers, "yours too" he replies, her letting go.
"Saved the best for last", Rhodey jokes. He would've had everything and the kitchen sink thrown at him but Peter was too close and in the way. "Mr Platypus, Rhodey", the man nods on the second, being the first to hug and talk. "Thank you for giving us back the Tony I love".
Peter's eyes widen, blushing at Rhodey's claim and compliment. "T-thank you". Rhodey lets go, Peter barely having had a chance to hug back in his shock. "Did you know we used to go out?". The kid's shock grows, alongside Tony's annoyance, "Rhodey!"
Rhodey waves him off, whispering a "I'll tell you all the stories later", to a Peter before the kid returns to Tony's couch. "So Kid, still want the Party?". He nods, "you made the effort to plan one, we wouldn't want it to go to waste", he smirks, looking up at the ceiling.
"Boss", FRIDAY interrupts, "I hate to break the news, but the candles melted onto the cake". They all look over at the counter, the top layer of frosting slathered with wax. "Oh, we can peel it off, it's still goo-". "FRI, order another one. Make it three layers and have it sent up here within 2 hours".
Even knowing Mr Metal is Tony, his extreme use of money still shocks him. "Mr Stark, it's fine". Tony, and the group, all ignore him. Knowing better than to fight with Tony or agreeing on the bigger cake. "In the meantime, we could start with your gifts", Tony continued, leading Peter along the way and away from any argument he could muster.
"Wait, gifts? You all didn't have to-". Again, this achieves nothing, "It's your birthday kid, we did and we wanted to". The avengers all exchange a knowing look, "How bout we start with only one, from all of us".
"It was my idea-hey", Clint grumbles and whines after a punch from Sam. Peter finds it agreeable enough, hoping or rather praying they didn't go too overboard. They all turn to Pietro, who salutes before speeding back and forth, making a tower at the centre of the couch area.
In front of Peter, Avengers Tsum-Tsums, one from and of each avenger. "I wanted to give you a Hawkeye one as a gag gift before they all stole my idea". He explains, defensive, and pouty. "They're all signed too", Scott adds next to the archer, adulting for him.
"That's actually not the present I was thinking of", Tony stresses, annoyed at the distraction. He stands, "follow me kid". Peter recognises the hallway, the path around the tower, they're heading back to Tony's room. "Did you buy me more Iron-Man merch?", He tries good guess. "Not exactly". Peter stops at Tony's room, looking confused when Tony walks one door further. "This one kid".
He doesn't say anything else, letting Peter open the door himself. What was inside, he couldn't have ever expected.
A king sized bed — with Iron-Man sheets, of course — centre of the room, plasma flat screen on a far wall opposite, surround sound speakers everywhere. Towards the window a conversation pit, with some of the longest couches Peter has ever seen. Coffee table in the middle and another flat screen before the window in its own console table.
Matching the name, on it and on two huge cabinets next to it, were every X-Box, PS, Wii and switch console ever released. What shelves weren't covered by consoles were full of every video game Tony could find, specially Pokemon and Legend of Zelda, Peter's favourites. On the walls a few more shelves and display cases, unopened LEGO sets on every single one, ready for Peter to build and present. Action figures and other superhero memorabilia as well.
By the window and to the opposite side of the bed and conversation pit was a desk. On and around it more top tier Stark tech, everything Tony had given Peter before plus a few extra toys all ready for him.
Two doors on each side of Peter's bed, between it and the wall and it and the pit. One to a fully outfitted bathroom, Iron-Man toothbrush and towels. The other to a walk in closet, full of clothes some of which Peter recognised as the ones Tony bought before, but those only a fraction of all the ones inside.
Dozens of T-Shirts, collared shirts, button ups, tank tops, compressors, button up and suit shirts. Sweats, Pyjama pants, sport shorts, Chinos, ripped and skinny jeans, suit pants and everything in between. Shoes of every type tony could think of, and socks of every colour. Leather jackets, varsity jackets, track suit jackets, sukajan jackets, denim jackets, insulated vests, ski jackets, flight jackets, and hoodies. Baseball caps, sunglasses, and open sections for any jewellery or extra clothes Peter had or wanted.
The closet was where Tony decided to share the spotlight. A white wolf themed leather jacket and Captain America themed varsity jacket. Falcon and Hawkeye themed slacks. A Bruce Banner signed lab coat, Quick silver compressor shirt and sneakers, Scarlet Witch themed sukajan jacket. Ant-Man running shorts and bomber jacket, War Machine themed shirts and black widow and Loki themed hoodies.
The spotlight was still only shared as at least 6 shirts, jackets, pants, shoes, socks and extras were Iron-Man, Tony Stark or SI style.
Back in the main room, in front of a giant, signed, Iron-Man poster, Peter's jaw had more than hit the floor. The past 10 minutes were spend by Peter looking over everything, stuttering and fumbling. Finally he gained the strength to speak, on the most egregious item. "A life sized Iron-Man LEGO statue!?!?"
Tony grins, "like it? I had it custom made. Did you know there are LEGO masters paid to do this? Weird job". He remains as casual as possible, just to annoy Pete further, the eventual and anticipated, "Mr Stark!!!".
"Nope, sorry, I've already been upgraded to 'Tony' and I'm not going back". Peter grumbles, still amending, "Tonnnyyyyy!". The billionaire chuckles, ever so happy to hear Peter call him 'Tony'. He pulls Peter into a side hug and walks him over to the only unused box, one full of picture frames. "I remember back in your apartment it was covered in pictures, thought you might want some here too".
Pulling out the top frame, he shows Peter, inside one of the pictures FRIDAY took from their first dinner, of Peter asleep on Tony's shoulder. "Like it?". Pete hugs Tony, tightly. "It's my favourite". The billionaire smiles, both walking over to the wall by Peter's bed, setting the picture above one of his bedside tables.
They stare at it, Tony's arm over Peter, the kid's head on his shoulder before the sound of shuffling stops them. "Shhh", Tony tells Pete, finger on his lips, tip-toe-ing to the door. Once he opens it, Avengers tumble into the room. "Prying bastards".
The Avengers, except Natasha, all stand from on top of each other, looking over the room. Clint most jealous of the gaming set up when it took him a month of begging to get a single switch. All compliment the room and wish Peter a quick happy birthday before FRI interrupts them. "Peter, MJ is asking if they can come up now"
"Right, yes! Please bring them up". Peter, with Tony's help, leads everyone back to the Party, explaining to the group what MJ was doing downstairs with everyone else. Meeting his Aunt and friends at the Living room.
"Peter!", Ned yells, tackling Peter into a hug "Why didn't you tell me you were friends with The Avengers?!". Peter huffs in a breath, making up the one Ned's body slam left him without, "because I didn't know?". "Yeah, let him breathe loser", MJ says, walking next to him, "how'd it go Loser?". From Behind, Tony chimes in "we were fine".
She stares him down, Tony shrinking slightly at her glare, "I didn't ask you, Stark". Peter grabs her hand, pulling down on it. "Be Nice MJ, and it was great". With this confirmation, she pulls back her protectiveness, kissing Peter's cheek.
Peter leaves both his friends, hugging May and bringing her to him. "May, meet Mr Stark, Mr Metal. Tony". May chooses to be polite, shaking his hand. "Mr Stark". He nods, smirking and trying to cajole. "Ms Parker, it's a pleasure to meet you. You have an incredible nephew".
"I know", she replies with a lot less charm, tension in the room rising. Eric takes it as his cue to cough. "Hello?".
Peter runs up to Loki, Abe, Ray, Mikaila, Ginger, Mark and Eric. "Right, come on". Abe, Ray and Mark give Peter a high five and a handshake, Ginger, Mikai and Eric a hug, the last of these 3 nogging on his head. "Just like my little Bro Corey, but less curly".
Swatting Eric's hand away, Pete pouts flattening his head. Eric reaches into his denim jacket, pulling out a little box, red ribbon around its blue wrapping outside. "Birthday present. Open it!".
The odd insistence and shoving of the gift into his hand, Peter obliges. Laughing as he pulls out the little toy inside. "A me bobble head?". Eric grins widely, nodding. "You loved the ones I had of my friends from Philly, thought you'd like one of your own". Now Peter hugs Eric, before playing with the head and looking over all the detail, including a wig as messy as his hair.
"Boss", FRIDAY interrupts Peter's conversation with his friends, before anyone else could hand him a present. "There's a package here from the Wakandan embassy, it's addressed to Mr Parker". Curious was Tony, like everyone, "Send it up".
MJ and Ned take their chance, "while Stark's stooge gets here, open ours". MJ hands him a flat box, while Ned a gift bag. From MJ he got a blank drawing book and a picture frame. "From when we all went out, know you like to collect pictures". Pete smiles at the framed memory, Abe, Ray, Ned, MJ, Loki, Pietro and himself all posing in front of the movie posters. "And the book is so you can keep all your creative ideas in one place, instead of your towers of loose paper you keep loosing".
After hugging and kissing MJ, he opens Ned's. "Kinda went the decorative route too", he comments anxious, Peter finding his name written in translucent LEGO pieces, an electric cord sticking from the sculpture. "It got LED lights, thought you could put it on your wall, or night stand, personalise your room". Your room indeed.
He pounces to hug them, repeatedly shouting thank you and already having an idea where to put them. MJ is thankful the elevator's ding got him off of her. A member of the Dora Milaje walking through. "Who's one Peter Parker?". Peter nods, her dropping the package with him, "special delivery from the princess".
Once Peter has the package and her duty is fulfilled, she leaves them be. And at the insistence of everyone, he opens the package, finding three bead bracelets.
'So you, Ned and MJ can call me. Direct link, private line'
Reads the note inside. If the interns weren't already in shock overload over Peter being close friends with the avengers, him getting a birthday present from a literal princess would've broken them. Ned and Peter are overly excited of the gift, even MJ cracking a wide smile. "How the hell do you know Shuri?", Sam asks from his couch, sipping on his juice.
"She stalked him cause of the internship, and Peter was himself". "Umm... Thanks?", Peter asks confused, squinting his eyes at MJ, the only one In the room to be so.
Now it's the rest of the teen's turns. Ray getting Pete a piranha plant light and Abe getting Peter a chewbacca mug. Finally, the interns. "We saw some of your plans to make BB8, thought we should come together and make it a friend". They open the box, pulling a miniature R2D2 from within.
"You didn't", he gasps, eyeing bot. Tony interjecting from a far, "oh they did, gave them the access, go ahead and overtime three weeks ago".
Eric ruffles Peter's hair again, Mikaila hugging him as they explain. "You helped us with all our projects". Ginger continuing, "even above working on your own". Mark fist bumping Pete, "so we thought we'd help you with one". Eric finishing, "It doesn't have an AI, you're better at making them than we are, but what do you think?". He hugged the four. "It's a real life R2D2, I love it".
"Hey Pete, how bout you show them your room", Tony comments, The avengers angry at him for reducing their time with Peter after finally dropping all their secrets. Peter loved the idea, "right! I was thinking of putting up your gifts there anyways", his friends all look confused, Peter giggling. "You guys aren't going to believe this".
He was right, Everyone dispersing in the giant room. Eric, Mark and Ginger — the gamer kids — right over to the gaming set up. Ned and Abe over the LEGO display cases, Ray and Mikai to the desk over the magnificent set up. MJ scoffing at the giant statue, "he would". Peter thought it would've been cool, but immediately grew embarrassed, a little ashamed and guilty that his friends didn't have this, even if they didn't care.
A tug dragged him away, "Loki?". He pulls Peter into the bathroom. "What personal thing do you want to talk about?", He asks the god, knowing exactly why he was here. He flicks his wrist, a gold and green gift basket and large box appearing on top the large sink and cabinet. "Your present".
A full makeup, nail polish and hair styling set — one identical to Loki's. "You seemed to enjoy it during the sleepover, thought you'd like to have one, to experiment-". He's cut by a tight embrace, "thank you". Loki slowly learning to hug back. "I also have one for your aunt, thought to give it to her later".
Peter nods excited, filling Loki with confidence. Then they're called back. "You have the new Legend of Zelda game? It's not even out yet!" Eric yells from his room, Peter realising he should probably supervise what's going on. Being pulled into a quick game trial session in his little pit with his friends.
-
"Back off, We've already taken a lot of his time and he's gonna want to spend some of his birthday with his friends". Tony scolds the avengers, them backing off as told. "Meanwhile, I need a couple people to pick up the cake and if any of you have final changes to your gifts now that Peter knows, now's the time to make them".
This gets them running, around half of them rushing off to upgrade their presents. Tony resting back on his sofa, Rhodey on his side, when May approaches.
Tony smirks, "do you need anything May? A drink?", He offers her a mimosa. May looking uneasy, "they're virgins, I'm not about to drink at a teen's birthday party". May takes the drink, one of the better mimosas she's ever had, but that does not dissuade her from her goal.
At May remaining distance, Tony sighs and grimaces. "Go ahead, say what you want to say. I'm used to not being liked". Tony keeps sipping on his mimosa, waiting for May to find her words. Rhodey chooses to stay silent, to be there for Tony if he needs.
"I'm not swayed by your money or guilt". She starts, setting her drink down and leaning towards him. "I know who you are and exactly what you're capable of, good and bad". Both men gulp, "Peter trusts you, he chose to come here and it's the only reason I am. But remember this Stark". By this point she's maybe a foot away from Tony, grabbing his shirt. "Pete has already been burned by you, hurt by all of you. Twice. He's already been through more than enough for one life"
She leans into his side, whispering her last sentence into his ear, Rhodey just able to make it out. "I don't care who you are, I'm not letting him get hurt again. Whatever that takes".
There was grit to her voice, the subtle threat understood by everyone present. Tony tries to do some damage control. "Trust me May, that kid getting hurt is the last thing I want". She grabs her drink and moves to stand, "as true as I want that to be, for Peter's sake, I'd need to see it to believe it".
"May", Tony calls for her before she's gone too far. She turns back, only acknowledgement Tony's gonna get. "We're thinking of having a movie night tonight, mind if he stayed overnight?".
She sighs. "Please", Tony adds, an honesty no camera has ever gotten, and which has May slump. "If even the slightest thing goes wrong, I'm pulling the plug", she replies, hand rubbing at the bridge of her nose, one last pained look sent the men's way. Tony looks at Rhodey, suppressing a smile if for her sake, "so... that a yes?". She shakes her head as she walks away, Tony letting his smile show, Rhodey as well.
"Where's the Cake FRI?", he asks, leaning back victoriously drink in hand. "Almost done, should be up in 45 minutes". Tony checks his watch, cake for lunch? May probably wouldn't approve. "And what are the kids doing?".
There are no cameras in the rooms — most rooms, Peter's included — so even FRIDAY can't see, but... "based on their television and conversation, they're having a 'gaming session'". Tony's happy to see them use some of Peter's new toys. "Get our regular orders of Shawarma, Subway and Taco Bell. Make sure to add vegan options for Bruce and MJ, and get some extra stuff for everyone". He orders, a makeshift meal for everyone, "and let the kids know when it arrives".
Tony finishes his drink, now exasperated about the man on his side. "And don't you have anything to say?". Rhodey looks as innocent as he can, unable to hide the pride on his face. "Unbelievably not, think you handled that well enough".
While initially he felt smug satisfaction, that first word irked him. "What do you mean unbelievably-?"
The lunch plan works, their food and cake arriving as predicted. All interns trickled back into the living space at the mention of food. MJ and Bruce bond over their food. Eric, Clint and Thor all eating alike in style and volume. Peter hating every second of them singing happy birthday, getting everyone to only sing louder till he finally blew out the candles.
Once the cake was served everyone dispersed, Eric, Ginger, Ray, Abe, Clint, Pietro, Scott and Sam all going to the switch. Most surprising, Eric dominated, winning by larger margins than that console had ever seen, even knocking Pietro way off his throne.
Nat, Wanda and MJ holding their own conversation away from the gamer nerds. Bucky introduced Mark to Steve, the three discussing Bucky's arm, the projector, and other casual topics. Tony and Rhodey chatting along with Bruce, Ned, Abe and Vision.
May and Peter teaming up and able to drag Loki and Thor to the hallway and away from prying ears.
"Lady May?", she smiles, "Hi Thor", she smiles, Peter bouncing next to her. "We need to talk to you two". She explains, Loki holding back an 'evidently', due to worry and affection. Peter looks at Loki just as concerned, giving him a quick hug and an assurance it would be fine. "We've been discussing it and while we've mentioned it, we were hoping to make this more... official, more concrete".
Grabbing both of Loki's hands in her's, she addresses him first and foremost. Thor looking on clueless and Peter excited. "Don't feel pressured to choose and take as long as you need to decide. Whatever you chose won't change anything, I want you to know that". Loki nods, only more scared by that prelude, Thor worried for his brother. "I would be honoured if you considered me your Aunt May". Now he's frozen, Thor next to him, the latter only worried about the former. It's Peter's impatience that breaks the silence.
"y-y- you don't need to, I mean, I'd love to if you want, we could be brothers, or cousins? and then aunt May could be your aunt May, a family, if you want, not to push but-". His aunt squeezes his shoulder, shutting him up.
Turning to Loki, the three of them are shocked to see him still frozen, but leaking a few tears. Of Joy? Fear? Sadness? Not even the god knew. "Mr Loki?". He starts shaking, softly sniffling. May takes over again, hugging him and massaging his hair.
"Breathe Loki, with me". Thor and Peter finally get to see first hand their odd relationship, Loki's stress dissipating within the hug. A few minutes afterwards gaining the words and coolness to speak. "Miss May, a-are you sure?", He asks, his mind flashing back to Odin, the many times he claimed to regret that decision. "Families have rarely been fortunate to have me, I-I'm not-".
Thor presses his hand over Loki's back, gaining all his focus as Thor nods, "Father was wrong. Don't let his cruelty make you miss something you wan- deserve". Thor very gently takes his turn to hug Loki, for once a fully reciprocated and welcomed hug by both of them. "Choose happiness, everything else will follow".
Good advice? Loki cannot believe he just got good advice from his oaf of a brother, never will he admit this nor that he needed that hug. He will however be polite, "thank you Thor", then he turns back to May and Peter.
"What do you say Loki?", May asks, her caring tone reminding Loki of her, Peter worriedly grinning, shrugging and adding, "Family?". It's still paralysing, though now Loki does have a clear answer. "Y-yes", he whispers, nodding. Internally he's prepared for the rug to be pulled under him, the joke to be revealed and the mockery to begin. It doesn't.
Behind his tightly shut eyes he's surprised by two pairs of arms in a warm embrace, opening them to find both Parker's smiling in their hug. "We love you Loki", May says, Peter nodding on Loki's chest, and that's what breaks him into tears.
Now, certain they're of Joy, everyone is a lot calmer, both Parker's keeping the hug and pulling Thor in to keep Loki happy, the god sneaking a little box into Peter's pocket. May once again massaging with Loki's hair and very lightly kissing his forehead. Again, it's around a minute before they let go, a little bit of Loki's makeup running. "Thank you", he whispers, earning another quick hug from Peter.
"Thor", May smiles at him while Peter steps back from his and Loki's hug. "Lady May?", he raises his brow curious, his smile no less grand. "That invitation is yours too, if you want and whenever you're ready, we'd love to call you family too". He brightens even more, nodding and keeping his voice down. "If my brother is happy to call you family, then the honour is mine". They fell to slight idle conversation, Loki's few tears drying unfortunately leaving the make-up in tear streaks. "I should clean up", he comments, gesturing to the hallway towards his and Thor's room, pulling his brother along with him.
Only once they're out of range of Peter and his aunt does Loki stop. Thor looking confused but not questioning his brother. "I'm only going to say this once so listen closely you oaf", he snaps, defensively. Thor looks stunned by the change in attitude, a fast rate of change that continues in their talk. Loki stops, softening his tune and quieting his voice, "I almost got lost in my fear... in my past. You grounded me and helped me focus, so... thank you, I owe you".
Thor just as plainly replies. "I know I'm not really worthy of it, that I've failed you in the past, but I will always be your brother Loki". Thor replies, Loki endeared by his brother's words. "I promise to listen more, to support you whenever you need, to prove I'm worthy of being your brother". They smile at each other, Loki now the one to initiate their hug. "Enough with this worry over worthiness. Father's obsession with that was never healthy and we shouldn't follow his footsteps". Thor, again, carefully embraces Loki, now the one with tears in his eyes. "What do you suggest brother?", he asks.
Loki's most surprised by how much he's started enjoying hugs, specially with Thor. "let's just be brothers. Fresh start and a new family, free of Odin's clutches". They both agree, releasing from the hug and continuing their walk to Loki's room. "Love you Thor", he says on their way, Thor grinning wide enough to hurt the muscles in his face but he didn't mind one bit, "Love you too Loki".
-
*back with Peter and May*
"Don't eavesdrop Peter", she scolds after they can't see either god anymore. Peter scowling at her, "I told you, I can't help it". That's when he feels it, an extra weight in his jacket pocket. "Hang on, whats this?".
Inside, a silver chain with an Uru Mjolnir charm on its end. The little box's top hiding a carved metal plate. 'For protection', inscribed on it. "I think this might be Thor's present, cool". He puts it on, smiling giddy at the gift.
May reaches into her own pockets, first taking out a plain envelope. "On the topic of gifts, this one's long overdue". On the letter, Peter spots familiar handwriting, an even more familiar name written on it: 'From Ben'.
Peter's already gutted, feeling the inevitable tears coming. "You remember how he was. How he lost his dad when he was 15. He always seemed to know about these things and wrote it years ago just in case he couldn't tell you in person". He hugs May, a source of strength before he can open it, a few tears falling on nthe Paper as he reads it.
Hi Peter
If you're reading this, I'm sorry I couldn't be there to tell you in person. So, got a datemate? I know you hated every time I asked, but I always wanted to know that your kind heart was in good hands, in every form of love.
I really do wish I could be there, have some ice cream for me. Give May a hug from me too, something about them could always make me smile.
If there's one thing I'm sure about, it's that I'd be proud of who you are today. Always willing to help, even if it meant being hurt yourself. Please stop that second part, I know you're still doing it but please, learn to take care of yourself
And please, if you haven't already, do learn to let me go. Don't let my death define your life, it won't get you too far, fight for others lives, to make them better like you made mine
I love you Peter, you were like the son I never had, a better son than I could hope for.
Ben
He had to return the letter to May, stop it from being drenched in tears, May slipping it safely away into her pocket before catching him in a hug. "I know Pete, I miss him too", she says through her own couple of tears while Peter sobs a little into her blouse, needing a second to recover from that letter.
"I know sweetie. I know", she clears her own tears, soothing him a little more before she continues. "There's a couple more things", she first pulls out an old, worn, silver watch. Peter turns it over on his hand, he's sure he's seen before. It seems broken, and has what Peter recognises as greek on the back. "Αγάπη πέρα από το θάνατο", it means 'Love Beyond Death'".
That's where... "it was dad's watch", he says breathlessly, clutching it tighter. He'd bought it once, on his honeymoon to Greece, he rarely took it off. May nods, "It's a little broken, I tried to get it fixed but- maybe you can fix it yourself. You and your machines". Peter giggles, Mat returning to her purse, pulling out a locket next to it. "And this was Mary's. They left them to you in their will, said we should give them to you on your sixteenth". Peter carefully takes the silver chained locket, opening it to a picture of Mary Parker holding him as a baby.
He already was all dried up, not really having the strength to cry anymore. Just nostalgic at the watch, which he puts on, and the picture of the locket, which he returns to May. "Can you keep this safe?", She nods, putting it back in her purse, pulling out something else.
"This one was Ben's", she shows him the ring. Peter knows this ring well, he remembers it from Ben and May's wedding picture, as well as from too many times to count in his hand. The ring itself simple, two silver bands on the ends, an onyx band in the middle. He tears up again slightly, still able to hold them back as he puts the ring on. "It's perfect, thank you Ben", he whispers into the ring, giving it a light kiss. Still, somehow May has more to give, revealing a thin, flat gift, carefully wrapped in all navy paper. A leather covered book, with half the leather coming off, scratches with worn pages inside.
"It was Ben's diary. There's memories, thoughts, and more messages for your future. 18th, graduation, leaving for college, college grad, proposal, wedding, kids if you want any, among others". Peter opens the first page, recognising the hard writing instantly — it matches the letter — before shutting it. "I- I don't think I can read this right now without crying".
Both chuckle, Peter adding, "and I want to save this, for later, when I need it". May smiles, letting him know that it was the last thing she had for him. He runs to save it inside one of the bedside tables in his new room, May walking back to the party. "Hey Kid, you ok? You look like you've been crying", Tony whispers into his ear. Pete nods, "I'm great actually, perfect".
Tony drops it, seeing Peter smiling. "So what are we doing?", The kid asks. They catch him up, On Eric's uncontested victories, on Clint's various rage quits, MJ sitting by next to him and continuing the party. Loki and Thor returning half way through. Loki turning into a snake and slithering over Peter's arms and shoulders while the teen is dragged into the friendship-destroying Mario-Kart tournament; he got third.
-
His return to the party is short lived, having escaped the Mario-War its only minutes before someone else drags him away. "Mind if we... talked", Pietro asks, pointing towards the balcony. This time everyone in the party sees it happening, those who know, knowing.
"What's up?", Peter asks once they're outside, only the two of them present, a spy and a teen threatening everyone away from the doors. Pietro fidgets with the ends of his shirt, sputtering as he starts. "I... wanted to thank you".
Today has already been heavy, so Peter is lost from the get go. Luckily, Pietro continues explaining. "You guys were the first friends I met, the first friends I made. And you were so welcoming and encouraging, even when I didn't deserve it, so umm, thank you". He has to admit he cut himself short, not wanting to push to much among... other things.
He also passes Peter a small rubber bracelet, odd plastic charms throughout. He also lifts his own sleeves, displaying his identical one, the only difference being the chain of square charms with the letters of their names on them. "It's a friendship bracelet, I made one for each of you, I- well, it's kinda stupid but I-", Pietro pauses, now beet red, whispering the end of his thought, "I wanted a reminder that it was real".
Peter grabs his hand, getting a quick acknowledgement and confirmation before gently hugging Pietro, "I love it". He beams putting it on next to the watch, Pietro happy and getting another box from him jeans pockets. "Thought I might as well give you your other present now".
A completely silver ring, rimmed on both ends, the midsection of the ring indented. Within, a thunderbolt pattern between 4 bright blue sapphires every 90 degrees, "QuickSilver" written on the innards of it. As well as a silver chain it was stuck in. "That way you can wear it as a pendant or a ring". Peter grins, putting it on next to Ben's ring. "My hand's gonna get heavy if this keeps up". They both laugh.
"By the way, feel free to call any time. I'll speed right over whatever you need, even if it's getting you your homework or to school on time". Peter giggles, music to Pietro's ears. "I don't think I'll need that much, but thanks Pietro".
Pietro seriously debates asking him right there and then, but then the adults had to go ahead and ruin it. Literal shrieking from the couch area gets Peter and Pietro to rush back in, finding a twitchy Clint yelling incomprehensible profanities while standing on a couch. "What's up with him?", Pietro asks.
"He's a sore loser". MJ startles both of them, coming up from behind. "They were playing Mario Party and Ginger stole Clint's only star. Now he's whinging like a child". Pietro relaxes, knowing this is quintessential Clint, moving on. Peter stays confused, then scared when Clint shrieks again, pointing directly to him. "You didn't have rings earlier today, someone's sneaking you gifts. Now it's my turn!". Was this a way to distract everyone from his devastating defeat? Yes. Was Clint still incredulous at Peter getting others gifts before his? That too.
"What do you say Pete?", Tony asks. Peter's already too on the spot so he defaults to nodding. "Alright, but Barton's last!", He shouts, everyone but Clint cheering, said archer yelling a "fuck you Stark" before pouting in his corner of the sofa.
Sam, Wanda, and Scott all head out of the room, the rest of the Avengers gathering their gifts from a nearby table while all the teens and interns gathered around the sofa. Peter was incredibly flustered being in the spotlight but the caring smiles of everyone around him cooled him.
At Tony's insistence, Bruce goes first; A heavy square box wrapped in Hulk themed wrapping paper. "Is this one of your books?", He asks, pulling out the item on top. "It's actually a full collection, I just wrapped my first's first edition. The rest are in my library, you can pick them up whenever you want".
Then, Peter looks inside. "And they're signed?!", he shouts, shocked as he reads a short message followed by Bruce's signature. Bruce blushes and smiles, "yes, the full collection is signed. All unique, but there's one more thing". Bruce points at the box, Peter digging down to its bottom, finding a set of papers loosely stapled.
"It's the manuscript for my next one, thought you and Ned and whoever else here could look over it, give me some notes". Both nerds' eyes widen, staring at each other in absolute shock. MJ shuts Ned up before he starts ramble-screaming, Peter stuttering a thank you and gives Bruce a tight hug. "You're welcome kid".
Tony chuckles, "so, who's gonna top that?". The avengers all scowl at the billionaire. Peter defusing, "Mr Stark, it's not a competition". Tony looks disgusted at the 'Mr Stark', the avengers' frowns flipped to smirks. "Besides, seeing you all here, you all as friends... that's the best present I could get" 'well, except for one', he leaves unsaid, fidgeting with his watch and ring.
"It might not beat Nerd talk, but I hope you like it". Nat showing emotion is something no one comments on, her glare able to sharpen as much as her throwing knives. "Thanks Ms Nat".
She gave him some home made tea mixes, as well as a... Romance novel?. Confounding. Nat is confounding, everyone surprised by the gift and why Nat would give it to Peter. "Look inside", she mouths, Peter privately doing so. The first page read: 'A Comprehensive Guide to Martial Arts; Masterclass edition".
Inside was also an almost blank sticky note, only thing on it a pair of spiders. "It's one of my favourite books, can't wait to read it with you. We could have a private book club". Peter, now much more energetic and happier, nods. "Thank you Ms Nat, I love it". Everyone knows there's more going on, but everyone also knows questioning it is a death sentence.
As they were fighting over who was next, a new voice steals their spotlight. "I hope I'm not too late to the Party", Pepper smiles walking into the room, gift bag in hand. "A couple meetings today run long". She was hoping to arrive by 1, ended up making it by 3.
"Ms Salt?", Peter asks, making the connection. Pepper rolls her eyes while holding her smile, "2 months, they lasted longer than I thought". Peter jumps from his couch, hugging Pepper, "Thank you for your help, a few months ago".
She squats a little, matching Peter's height and returning the hug. "You're always welcome", Pepper replies, Tony smiling at her from the back. "And we should be the ones thanking you", she whispers, standing back and handing him his present. An Avengers hoodie, a golden snitch keychain and a Tiny Tony chibi plush.
That last one proves a favourite. Peter gushing over the tiny figure, promising to make it his new sleep plushy. Tony was only a little frustrated when Peter returned to his couch, toy in hand. Pepper walking over to and introducing herself to May.
Scott finally returns, the last of the 3 that left and the next one to steal the spotlight. "It's from me and Cassie. Once she heard your birthday was coming up she insisted on making you something". The gift itself a basket full of home made cookies, fudge, and cupcakes. All home made. A hand drawn birthday card signed by Cassie.
Makes Peter gush, passing the card to MJ and asking if they can frame it. Then, came Wanda. "It's from me and Vis". Inside their gift basket a custom made mirror and frame. Beautiful wooden carvings around the frame, one corner biting into the centre, the words "Proud of You" carved and painted onto the wood.
"I have one like it in my room, you can slide pictures between the frame and mirror. That way every time you look in, you're surrounded by the people you love". Pete hugs Wanda and Vision, the latter doing his best to reciprocate the gesture. "I'm going to need your help setting it up, since you have the experience".
Wanda giggles. "Definitely, we can start with a picture of all of us". Pete nods, a strong whistling cutting the two's talk short. "After the presents, there's something we need to give you". The 'we' became clear when whirring and beeping started to be heard, a red drone zooming through the room and onto Peter's lap. "It's from the two of us, also as a thank you for helping us back in your apartment".
Boy is Peter happy he already told May.
Sam's first gift was Gandalf's staff. "Did you get the blood out? And why does this one look more detailed?". Sam smirks. "You know Peter Jackson?". Every teen and intern nods, oh they know. "Yeah, I pulled a couple of favours. Got his prop designer to make another one and got these signed". He returns Peter's Lord of the Rings books. "Couldnt get Tolkien, thought this was the next best thing".
Tony and MJ had to stop everyone's interrogation on how Sam knew the director of the LotR films — through an Army friend — letting the super soldiers go next, Steve before Buck. Steve's wrapped gift is big but thin, behind the wrapping paper a used canvas and art folder.
It was a painting of Peter, one of the most detailed Steve had painted. He didn't reveal this but it took him three days to complete. Inside the folder a couple more sketches of Peter which cap used as a character study, alongside his own set of sketching pens and blueprint paper.
Peter is stunned. "A Cap original", Bucky states, kissing his boyfriend. Pete jumping to hug Steve thankful of the piece. It's going in his room. "Ok, My turn". Bucky grins, "I got you two gifts", he hands one to Peter and the bag to Steve.
"What is?", Steve looks curious as to why Bucky handed him one of Peter's presents. Said doubts are quelled when he opens it. A pair of golden haired dog ears, a foam dog's nose, and a bone pattern dog collar with Steve's 'Steeb' dog tag on it. Steve face palms while everyone laughs, Bucky's smirk growing wider. "Steve, put this on. That's the gift". He smiles at Peter.
Rolling his eyes and grumbling as he slides the ears into his hair, surprisingly matching in colour, Bucky putting the collar and nose on Steve, unable to hold back his giggling. "Happy now?", Steve deadpans, exhausted.
Busy giggling, Peter doesn't answer, Bucky however, does. He looks Steve over, a critical glare before saying, "not a big fan of the ears and nose", he leans in, sliding one arm around Steve's waist. "But we're keeping that collar", he growls into Steve's ear. The Captain's face turns red in a second, pushing his boyfriend back, "Bucky!".
Everyone laughs, Natasha commenting they should get a room before Peter gets the chance to open his second gift: a fully outfitted tool box. "I like to work on bikes and cars, Use one just like it. If you want we can get you an old bike, fix it and personalise it up for you". May stares him down, Tony from behind Peter doing the decapitation motion with his hand. "Or a car, you know, for when you're older".
He just barely saves his ass, Peter still elated with the gift gives Bucky a tight hug, whispering, "I'll hold you to that promise, soon" when out of earshot. Bucky suppresses a grin your help hide it, replying with a "you're welcome kid", once he pulls away.
Clapping his hands, Tony directs, "Platypus, you're up".
Rhodey looks a little awkward, first time of the day, "didn't really know what to get you, so there's a bit of a mixture in there". He hands Pete his own gift bag, the insides obscured by lose scrap paper.
First an Iron-Man pyjama onesie... it goes about as well as you'd expect it to. Everyone growling and jealous, promising to get Peter one of them too. Second, a metal pedestal holding a display arc reactor. And lastly, an MIT yearbook. "From our graduating year, there's a couple pictures and comments of Tony in there, happy to tell you all their stories".
Peter's loving the idea. Tony's hating it. "Don't you dare Platypus, you're not telling the kid any of that", he barks, Rhodey snickering and Peter giggling while hugging Rhodey, "Thanks Mr Platypus, tell me later".
Conflicted between anger at Rhodey, or happiness for Peter, Tony chooses to distract himself by pissing off a very childish archer. "Alright, since we're done who wants to play virgin beer pong!". His plan works perfectly as Clint scutters off his seat whining, "Hey! I stayed quiet, I waited till the end, it's my turn Stark". Most snicker at Clint's frustration, Him stumbling over the scattered guests and furniture and up to Peter with his present.
"Here kid, the best gift of the day". Tony rolls his eyes at the archer's antics, Peter smiling dopey at Clint. "Thank you Mr Barton..." he replies as he pulls out a hardcover book with a Hawkeye design over it, "but what is this?".
Smirking proudly, Clint flips it a couple pages for Peter, highlighting different titles: Smoke Bombs, Sticky Bombs, Stink Bombs, Glitter Bombs. "It's my ultimate pranking guide". Now Tony jumps defensively from his seat, "No, you're not corrupting my kid Barton!"
The Maximoffs, the interns, and the dad squad all laugh. "Clint's never shared this with anyone, you're lucky kid". Meanwhile Clint stuck his tongue out at Tony while Peter hugged him, "I love it Mr Barton".
"Hey!", Clint calls once he pulled back, "It's Uncle Clint to you". Peter rolls his eyes, still smiling. "Ok Uncle Clint".
Disastrous decision as now every Avenger wanted to be called either Aunt or Uncle, Tony most angry of them all, cause all it took Barton was a gift and a day to upgrade to 'Uncle Clint', and Tony's still struggling to stay at 'Tony'. The discourse lasts until Nat and MJ shout at them to get over it and let Peter do it on his own time, not the favourite decision of anyone I that room — except Clint — but they moved on.
Due to protest, Eric, Pietro and Ginger were all banned from the switch for the rest of the day. Peter won a couple more games but didn't play much beyond that. Tony had ordered another cake, to Peter's chagrin, an ice cream cake this time to keep everyone entertained. This also meant setting up virgin drinking games, darts and any other way he could think of to get Peter and his friends to smile for the rest of the day.
"Sorry Pete, but we gotta go too". Peter hugged Ginger and Mikai goodbye, Them, Ray, Abe and Eric all getting ready to go. "We don't want to take the subway too late, it gets really creepy real quick".
Tony can't have that, "No need, I'll have some of my drivers take you home. Cant have you take your party favours on the subway either".
"Party Favours?", Pete asks confused, then horrified to see Tony smirk. "It's the polite thing to do, and I thought they'd like what I gave you a month ago. You know the computer, the phone, all of that?". Peter's eyes widen, knowing exactly what he was talking about, exactly how much he was talking about. The smirk widens, "I'm sure you'll all enjoy it, my drivers can help you carry them in".
Every intern looks at Tony confused, but seeing Peter's gobsmacked face is enough for them to know not to question it then and there. They wave goodbye leaving only the Avengers, The trio and May, the last of which doesn't stay too much longer. "Hey sweetie?"
"Yes May?", Peter replies from his spot on the couch, feet over the back, head hung down by the floor. "I have an early shift tomorrow-", Pete flips around, stumbling up. "Right, yeah, let's go".
May can't help but smile, his birthday and he's willing to leave it just cause she needs it. She kisses his forehead, "I'm going home, you can stay here as long as you want. I'm sure Tony can get you home safely". She turns to the man, reserving a subtle fury in her glare just for him. "Right?".
He gulps, keeping calm so Peter doesn't see a thing. "Right, sure. I'll have my head of security drive him home whenever he wants". May turns, wrath for happiness as she smiles at Peter, "see, enjoy the rest of your party, I'll meet you back at the apartment". She kisses him again, whispering 'Happy Birthday' into his ear before heading off.
It was already almost 7pm, the sun was still up but thanks to Tony's tinted windows it didn't blind the room. It also served another purpose; "So what do you say kid, up for our Movie Night?"
Peter smiles at the idea, Tony grabbing him from the side to their own couch. "Avengers! Grab the popcorn!". Steve, Bucky, Sam and Scott all rushing for over 10 bowls of popcorn, chips, various types of chocolate and candy, spreading them all around the living area for everyone.
Scanning through the room, Peter relaxes and giggles at the absolutely insane friends he ended up making. Pietro picking Popcorn off his hair, where Clint had somehow managed to spill, Wanda giggling next to them. Bucky snuggling over Steve, giving him a flurry of kisses on his neck, making Steve blush.
MJ, Pepper, and Nat in their own private intense discussion, one no one is stupid enough to eavesdrop in. Thor sat next to Loki, the most civil conversation the avengers have seen those 2 have, Bruce constantly distracted from his own chat with Ned by the happiness in Thor's face. Scott, Rhodey and Sam all in their own. "So Kid? What movie you thinking of?"
"Um, I'm happy with anything". Everyone, literally everyone stares at Peter, smirking. "Even at your own party you still refuse to choose". Tony comments, everyone chuckling and nodding along. He rolls his eyes at Peter's refusal to reply, "Fine, how bout Star Wars, we know it's your favourite". They all cheer, FRIDAY starting episode 1.
During the opening credits crawl, Peter sneaks over to hug Tony. "What's this for kid?", He whispers. Peter's arms wrapped around his waist, head pressed on Tony's shoulder. "Thank you, and I'm sorry".
Tony shakes him off his shoulder, for a more proper hug, a reciprocated hug. "You've got nothing to be sorry about, I've told you multiple times and I meant it each one", Peter pulls back, dopily smiling. "Thanks Tony".
Again, Tony's overjoyed that Peter called him 'Tony', knows it means he trusts him. "We should be the ones thanking you", He points at the godly brothers, the soldier boyfriends, the spy family, "In 6 months, somehow you helped make all this happen. So thanks kid".
Both grin, turning back to the screen, Peter resting a little more on Tony's shoulder. Ned and MJ both leave after the first movie, Peter staying for "one more movie", that turned to three, falling slowly falling asleep by Episode 4. "Kid?", Tony asks after a while without any movement, finding Peter passed out on the couch.
He gestures to Nat, signalling to hand him a blanket, everyone slowly catching on to the sleeping teen. Tony slowly shifting him on his side, more comfortable and so he doesn't strain his neck, laying Peter over the couch, his legs over Tony's lap.
Only after episode 4 ends does everyone move to stand, Tony choosing not to wake Peter carries him to his room. Secretly Friday taking every picture she had at the insistence of multiple avengers. Once in Peter's room, Tony gently lays him on his bed, Pete immediately moving to snuggle with the nearest pillow. "Goodnight-", Tony whispers, kissing Peter's forehead before finishing.
"Son"