Not So Friendly Anymore

(I just wanted to give a special thanks to my first Patreon follower Bob. Thank you for the follow my friend.)

(Anyway have fun and thanks for reading.)

Two Days Later

The soft hum of the city filtered through the soundproofed windows of Peter Parker's penthouse. The early morning sunlight crept through the curtains, casting warm golden streaks across the room. Peter stirred awake, stretching lazily. His body ached from patrols, but it was a familiar and oddly satisfying kind of soreness.

The quiet was broken by the sharp chime of the doorbell. Groaning, Peter rolled out of bed, his messy hair sticking out in all directions. He shuffled toward the door, rubbing his eyes. When he opened it, he froze in surprise.

Silver Sable stood there, radiant in a casual silver sweater and dark jeans, her signature confident smirk tugging at her lips.

"Surprise," she said, holding up a bag of pastries and a coffee tray.

Peter blinked, still processing. "Uh... morning to you too?"

"Is this how you greet your girlfriend after two days of radio silence?" she teased, stepping past him and into the penthouse.

Peter shut the door, scratching the back of his neck. "I didn't think you'd just show up unannounced."

She turned, raising an eyebrow. "Would you have preferred a phone call?"

"Point taken," he admitted, a small smile breaking through.

She placed the bag and coffee on the kitchen counter, looking around. "Still keeping this place spotless, I see."

"It's called having an assistant," Peter quipped, heading to the kitchen to grab plates.

They settled into breakfast together, Peter happily munching on a croissant while Sable sipped her coffee.

"So," she began, leaning her chin on her hand, "what's the plan for today?"

"Plan?" Peter raised an eyebrow. "I didn't even know you were coming. You tell me."

"Well," Sable said, smirking, "I thought we'd do something normal. No symbiotes, no supervillains, no drama. Just us."

Peter chuckled. "Normal? You sure you're okay with that? I didn't think 'normal' was in your vocabulary."

"Neither is 'day off,' but here we are," she shot back playfully.

They spent the next couple of hours indulging in the rare luxury of being just a couple. They cleaned up breakfast together, though Peter cheekily flicked some water at her while washing dishes, earning a mock glare. They lounged on the couch, flipping through channels, laughing at bad commercials, and even debated over what movie to watch later.

At one point, Sable wandered over to the window, looking out at the city skyline. "You know," she said, her voice softer, "it's nice to see you like this."

"Like what?" Peter asked, walking up behind her.

"Relaxed. Happy." She turned to face him. "You've been through so much, Peter. You deserve this."

Peter's smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered. "Yeah... I guess it's nice to breathe a little."

She reached up, brushing a hand against his cheek. "You're allowed to, you know. You don't always have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders."

Peter leaned into her touch, his smile this time genuine. "Guess I have you to remind me."

They stood there for a moment, the city bustling below them, as the rest of the world faded

Silver Sable tilted her head slightly, studying Peter's face as the silence stretched between them. Her silver-gray eyes searched his, and her lips curved into a small, knowing smile.

"Speaking of breathing," she began carefully, "I've been thinking about something."

Peter frowned, already sensing a shift in tone. "That sounds like trouble."

She swatted his arm lightly. "I'm serious, Peter. I want to meet Franklin and Valeria."

Peter stiffened, the playful atmosphere evaporating almost instantly. He stepped back, running a hand through his messy hair as he tried to process her words. "You want to... meet them?"

Sable nodded, her gaze steady. "Yes. I do. You've told me how important they are to you, how much they mean to you. I think it's time."

Peter let out a low sigh, turning away to lean against the window sill. The city below stretched out in its chaotic beauty, but it did little to calm his thoughts. "Sable... it's not that simple."

"Why not?" she asked, crossing her arms. Her tone wasn't accusing, but curious, patient. "You're their father, aren't you? What's stopping you?"

Peter didn't answer right away. He stared out the window, his mind racing with doubts. He thought about Franklin's endless optimism and Valeria's razor-sharp intelligence. He thought about their laughter, their questions, the moments they'd shared before everything fell apart.

"I don't want to drag them into my mess," Peter finally said, his voice low.

Sable stepped closer, her tone softening. "Peter, they're already in your life. Whether you like it or not, they're a part of you. And if they mean that much to you, shouldn't I get to know them too?"

He turned to face her, his jaw tight. "It's not about you, Sable. It's about them. Franklin and Valeria... they've been through enough. The last thing they need is me complicating their lives even more."

"And what do you think you're doing by staying away?" she countered, stepping closer. "Peter, you're not protecting them. You're punishing yourself. You've told me how much you love them, how much they mean to you. Do you really think they don't feel the same way?"

Peter's shoulders sagged. He knew she was right. He'd been running from this, telling himself it was for their sake, when deep down, he knew it was his own fears holding him back.

Sable reached out, placing a hand gently on his arm. "Look, I'm not saying you need to march up to the Baxter Building and make a grand declaration. But you can't keep them at arm's length forever. They're your family, Peter. Let me meet them. Let me be part of that."

Peter swallowed hard, his throat tight. "What if they don't want me there? What if I've already lost them?"

"You haven't," Sable said firmly. "I've seen how much you care, how much you've done for them, even when you didn't have to. That's not something they'll forget."

Peter closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. "You really want to do this?"

She nodded, her expression unwavering. "Yes. I do. Not just for you, but for them. They deserve to know who you really are, Peter. And so do I."

He opened his eyes, meeting her gaze. Her confidence was unshakable, her determination unwavering. It was one of the things he loved about her, how she always pushed him to be better, even when he didn't want to face the hard truths.

Finally, he let out a slow breath, nodding. "Okay. You win. We'll set something up."

Sable's smile was soft, almost relieved. "Thank you, Peter."

He managed a small smile of his own, though his heart still felt heavy. "Don't thank me yet. This could get messy."

She laughed lightly, stepping closer to rest her head on his chest. "Messy, I can handle. I'm dating you, aren't I?"

Peter chuckled despite himself, wrapping an arm around her. For the first time in a long while, he felt a flicker of hope. Maybe, just maybe, he could make this work.

---

Meanwhile at the Baxter Building

The atmosphere in the Baxter Building was oppressive, like a storm waiting to break. Johnny Storm sat in the common area, his elbows resting on his knees, his fingers laced together as he stared at the floor. His usually bright energy was gone, replaced by a deep-seated tension that even his flame couldn't burn away.

Across from him, Ben Grimm sat in an oversized armchair, his rocky frame relaxed but his expression unreadable. The Thing watched Johnny in silence, a heavy sigh escaping his lips.

"You're awfully quiet, Ben," Johnny muttered, not looking up.

"What's there to say, kid?" Ben replied evenly. "You're stuck in your head, and I'm not exactly the guy to fix that."

Johnny's jaw tightened. "You could tell me I'm right," he said bitterly. "That Peter's full of it. That he's just screwing with me."

Ben scratched his chin, his rocky fingers making a faint grinding sound. "I don't know, Johnny. Parker's got no reason to make that kinda thing up. It's not his style."

Johnny shot him a glare. "So you're on his side now?"

"I'm not on anyone's side," Ben said firmly, leaning forward. "I'm just saying, Pete's always been straight with us. If he says somethin', maybe it's worth thinkin' about instead of blowin' a gasket."

Johnny groaned, burying his face in his hands. "It doesn't make sense, Ben! They're Reed's kids. Sue's kids. Not his."

Ben shrugged, his tone neutral. "Maybe. But you gotta admit, Pete's been there for them more than Reed has lately. And those kids? They love him like he's family."

Johnny looked up, his eyes blazing with frustration. "That doesn't mean he gets to claim them! They're not his!"

Ben raised a hand, his expression calm. "Look, I ain't sayin' Pete's right or wrong. But you gotta admit, Reed hasn't exactly been the dad of the year. And Sue... well, she's got her reasons for whatever happened back then. You don't know the whole story, kid."

Johnny slumped back in his chair, his energy drained. "I don't want to believe it, Ben. But what if..." He hesitated, his voice faltering. "What if it's true?"

Ben didn't answer right away. Instead, he leaned back, crossing his arms. "If it is, then it is. But maybe instead of runnin' in circles, you should talk to Sue about it. She's the only one who really knows."

---

Upstairs, Susan's Room

Susan Storm sat alone in her dimly lit room, her knees drawn to her chest as she rested her head against the wall. The curtains were drawn tight, plunging the room into shadow, but she didn't care. She hadn't left her quarters since the truth about Peter came out, and she wasn't ready to face anyone, not yet.

Her thoughts spiraled endlessly, weaving guilt, regret, and bittersweet memories into a tapestry of pain she couldn't ignore.

Peter.

The name clung to her mind like a melody she couldn't forget. It was a reminder of everything she'd lost, everything she'd let slip through her fingers.

At first, it had all seemed so simple. She'd loved Reed. How could she not? He was brilliant, dedicated, a man with a vision as vast as the cosmos. But over time, that brilliance became distance, his dedication a barrier she couldn't breach. The lab came first, the equations, the theories, the breakthroughs, and she became secondary, a supporting character in a story Reed was too absorbed in to notice.

She'd tried to endure it, to remind herself of why she'd fallen in love with him in the first place. But eventually, her patience wore thin, and she'd found herself feeling more like a ghost in her own marriage.

And then there was Peter.

Susan let out a shaky breath, her hand clutching the edge of her blanket. She didn't know when it had started, only that it had felt inevitable. Peter had always been there, steadfast, kind, and so full of life that it was impossible not to be drawn to him.

At first, he'd simply been a friend. But as Reed became more and more consumed by his work, Peter became something else entirely. He was attentive, funny, selfless, everything she needed but didn't dare admit she wanted.

She closed her eyes, her mind wandering back to the night it all changed.

It had been a particularly bad fight with Reed, one of many, but this time, the argument had left her feeling hollow and unwanted. She'd gone to Peter, not for anything beyond comfort, not for anything more than a friendly ear. But Peter had seen through her defenses as he always did.

"Why do you let him treat you like you're less than you are?" Peter's voice had been quiet but firm, his gaze steady and filled with concern.

Susan had tried to deflect, to downplay her pain, but Peter wouldn't let her. Instead, he'd stayed, listening to her, reassuring her, reminding her that she was worth so much more than she allowed herself to believe.

That night, something shifted. She hadn't meant for it to happen, but Peter's warmth, his unwavering presence, had drawn her in. He made her feel loved in a way she hadn't felt in years.

And then there was Franklin and Valeria.

Susan's lips trembled as she reached for the photo on her bedside table. It was an old snapshot, worn from years of handling. Peter stood in the center, Franklin perched on his shoulders and Valeria clinging to his arm. The kids' faces were radiant with joy, their love for him unmistakable.

"They love him," she whispered, her voice breaking. "Because he loved them first."

She hadn't planned for either of them, but they'd happened, not out of some grand design, but out of the simple, undeniable fact that Peter had made her feel alive. He'd made her feel wanted.

Franklin had been the result of a fleeting moment of happiness, one night where Peter's love had been enough to fill the cracks Reed had left in her heart. And Valeria had followed not long after, a testament to a love she'd tried to bury, even as it blossomed in the shadows.

Susan wiped a tear from her cheek, her fingers brushing over Peter's face in the photo. He'd been there for every moment, the milestones, the scraped knees, the bedtime stories. He'd been a father to her children in ways Reed never had, not because he had to, but because he wanted to.

"I loved him," she admitted softly, her voice trembling. "I still do."

The guilt was suffocating, but it paled in comparison to the ache of knowing she'd driven away the one man who had truly seen her, who had shown her she was more than just a scientist's wife.

But as much as she wanted to reach out, to make things right, one question haunted her: What if it's too late?

Susan tightened her grip on the photo, the memories cascading over her like waves, each one threatening to pull her under. The guilt gnawed at her, sharp and unrelenting, but it was the memories that hurt the most, the echoes of laughter, of stolen moments, of a love that had been her refuge in a life of quiet despair.

She remembered the first time she saw Peter hold Franklin. He'd been so nervous, his hands trembling as he cradled the newborn against his chest. "I don't want to mess this up," he'd admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

"You won't," Susan had told him, placing her hand over his. "You're already perfect."

And he had been. Peter had thrown himself into fatherhood with a passion and dedication that had surprised even her. He was the one who stayed up with Franklin during the sleepless nights, who paced the floor with him until he fell asleep. He was the one who made Valeria laugh until she cried, who built pillow forts with them and spun stories so vivid it felt like they were living in a fairy tale.

Reed had barely noticed.

Susan's chest tightened as she thought of Reed, his endless hours in the lab, his distracted nods and half-hearted smiles when Franklin or Valeria tried to get his attention. She'd wanted to scream at him, to make him see what he was missing, but she'd given up long ago.

And that was when Peter had stepped in.

He hadn't just been there for the children; he'd been there for her. When she'd felt invisible, when she'd doubted her worth, Peter had been the one to remind her who she was.

"You're Susan Storm," he'd said once, his voice steady and sure. "The Invisible Woman. The heart and soul of the Fantastic Four. Don't ever let anyone make you feel like you're less than that."

She'd laughed it off at the time, but the words had stayed with her, a balm against the wounds Reed didn't even notice he was inflicting.

"I didn't deserve him," she whispered now, her voice breaking.

Her mind drifted back to the moment everything had fallen apart, the day she'd turned her back on Peter when he needed her most. The accusations against him, the fear for her children, it had all felt so overwhelming, and she'd let her panic drive her decisions. She hadn't believed him, hadn't stood by him, and that betrayal haunted her.

"I was scared," she admitted to the empty room, her tears falling freely now. "I was scared for them, for me, for what it all meant. But that doesn't excuse what I did."

Susan leaned her head back against the wall, closing her eyes as the memories continued to flood her.

She thought of the way Peter used to look at her, his gaze filled with so much love it took her breath away. She thought of the nights they'd spent talking, laughing, just being together without the weight of the world pressing down on them. She thought of the way he'd held her, his arms strong and safe, as if he could shield her from everything that hurt.

And she thought of the way she'd broken his heart.

"I ruined it," she said, her voice barely audible. "I ruined us."

Her fingers traced over the photo again, lingering on Peter's face. He'd been her anchor when her world was falling apart, and she'd let him go.

But even now, as the guilt consumed her, there was something else beneath it, something she couldn't ignore: hope.

Maybe it wasn't too late. Maybe she could make things right. For Franklin, for Valeria, for Peter.

But as the thought took root, so did the fear. Because if it was too late, if Peter couldn't forgive her, she didn't know how she'd ever forgive herself.

---

Elsewhere in the Baxter Building, Franklin and Valeria's Room

Franklin Richards paced his room, fists clenched at his sides. His face was a storm of emotion, anger, frustration, and a deep sense of betrayal. Across the room, Valeria sat at her desk, her normally sharp, inquisitive eyes burning with a rare fury as she scribbled calculations into a notebook, the sound of her pencil scratching angrily against the paper.

"You're going to break that pencil," Franklin muttered, his tone clipped.

Valeria slammed the pencil down, spinning her chair to face him. "Maybe I will! What do I care? It's not like anything in this stupid house makes sense anymore!"

Franklin stopped pacing and turned to her, his jaw tightening. "Yeah, no kidding. First, we find out Uncle Peter was innocent the whole time, and what do Mom and Dad do? They just... act like nothing happened!"

Valeria crossed her arms, her voice dripping with disdain. "Dad's holed up in his lab, like usual, and Mom—" She hesitated, guilt flickering briefly in her expression. "Mom hasn't left her room. But that doesn't fix anything, does it?"

"No, it doesn't," Franklin growled. "Uncle Peter's been there for us since we were kids. When Dad was too busy with his 'important experiments,' it was Uncle Peter who taught me how to control my powers. Uncle Peter who actually listened when I had a bad day. Uncle Peter who showed up."

Valeria nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. "And when I wanted to build something, who was the one who encouraged me? Who brought me the materials I needed and sat with me while I worked? It osure as hell wasn't Dad."

"Exactly!" Franklin's voice rose, his anger boiling over. "Dad was always too busy chasing the next big discovery to even notice us. And now, after everything Uncle Peter did for this family, they turned their backs on him!"

Valeria's eyes glistened with unshed tears, but her voice remained steady. "It's not just stupid. It's cruel. Uncle Peter didn't deserve any of this."

Franklin nodded, his shoulders slumping as some of his anger gave way to sadness. "You know what hurts the most? He never even fought back. He didn't argue. He didn't defend himself. He just... left. Like he thought we didn't want him anymore."

Valeria looked away, her voice quiet but fierce. "But we did. We always did."

Franklin sank onto the edge of his bed, running a hand through his hair. "I miss him, Val. I miss him like crazy. He was more of a dad to us than..." He stopped, his throat tightening.

Valeria nodded, her tone bitter. "Than our actual dad? Yeah, you can say it. It's the truth."

Silence filled the room for a moment, heavy and unspoken.

Finally, Franklin broke it, his voice shaking. "Do you think he misses us?"

Valeria hesitated, her lip trembling. "Of course he does. He loves us, Franklin. He always has. That's why this hurts so much, for him and for us."

Franklin clenched his fists again, his resolve hardening. "I don't care what Mom and Dad say. I'm going to find him. Uncle Peter deserves to know that we still care about him, even if no one else in this family does."

Valeria stood, her expression fierce. "You're not doing it alone. We're a team, remember?"

Franklin offered her a weak smile, and for the first time all evening, a spark of hope flickered between them.

"Yeah," he said. "We are."

---

Baxter Building, Late Afternoon

The Manhattan skyline glowed in the waning sunlight as Peter Parker and Silver Sable strolled toward the Baxter Building. Sable's silver jacket shimmered in the golden hour, while Peter's black leather jacket reflected his usual mix of confidence and mischief.

"You sure you're ready for this?" Sable asked, one brow arched as she adjusted her gloves.

Peter smirked, hands casually tucked in his pockets. "Ready? No. But watching Johnny unravel? Always worth the trip."

Sable chuckled softly. "You take far too much pleasure in tormenting him."

"Hey," Peter said with mock offense. "The Human Torch deserves it. You'd think someone who can light up like a Christmas tree wouldn't be so easy to roast."

The sliding doors opened with a soft hiss, ushering them into the gleaming lobby of the Baxter Building. The faint hum of advanced tech buzzed in the background, but it was drowned out by the unmistakable sound of Johnny Storm's frustrated voice echoing from deeper within.

"I'm telling you, Ben! There's no way it's true!" Johnny's tone was high-pitched, his disbelief practically palpable.

"And I'm tellin' you, Johnny," Ben Grimm's gravelly drawl countered, "you saw how he said it. If it's a lie, it's a damn good one."

Peter paused mid-step, turning to Sable with a gleam in his eye. "See? I don't even have to try, and they're already unraveling."

"Incorrigible," Sable muttered, shaking her head as they made their way down the hall.

When they entered the common area, the scene didn't disappoint. Johnny paced back and forth like a caffeinated hamster, his hands buried in his hair, while Ben sat on the couch, arms folded, watching him with a mix of amusement and weariness.

Johnny's eyes locked onto Peter the moment he appeared. He froze, jabbing a finger in his direction with all the drama he could muster. "You!"

Peter raised an eyebrow, leaning casually against the doorframe as a smirk curled at his lips. "Wow, Johnny, using whole words now. Someone's been practicing."

Johnny's face reddened instantly. "You've got some nerve showing up here after—"

Peter held up a finger, cutting him off with mock seriousness. "Careful, Johnny. You start a sentence without a brain to finish it, and it's not going to end well for you."

Johnny sputtered, struggling for a comeback, while Peter tilted his head with a satisfied grin. "See? Case in point."

Johnny stormed toward him, stopping just short of shoving him. "I'm serious, Parker! You don't get to drop a bombshell like that and just walk away!"

Peter tilted his head, his expression one of mock innocence. "Bombshell? What bombshell? I say so many things, it's hard to keep track."

"You know exactly what I'm talking about!" Johnny snapped. "Franklin and Valeria? Susan? You—"

"Ah, yes." Peter snapped his fingers. "That bombshell." He pretended to consider it for a moment, tapping his chin. "Huh. Did I say that out loud? Guess I must've been distracted by all the dramatic arm-waving."

Johnny's face flushed red as he waved his arms in frustration. "Peter, stop dodging the question! Was any of it true? Or were you just messing with me?"

Peter chuckled, looking over at Sable. "You know, it's adorable when he thinks yelling will work. Like a puppy barking at a vacuum cleaner."

Sable smirked but said nothing, clearly content to let Peter take the lead.

"I'm not a damn puppy!" Johnny growled.

Peter feigned a look of surprise. "Wow, someone's sensitive. Relax, Johnny. I'm sure Susan will tell you everything... eventually."

Johnny's frustration bubbled over, his fists clenched. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

"Oh, immensely," Peter said without hesitation. "I haven't had this much fun since I webbed Wolverine's knuckles to his head."

Ben finally stood up, his massive frame looming as he approached. "Alright, Pete. Enough with the song and dance. What's the real deal here?"

Peter's smirk didn't falter as he looked up at Ben. "C'mon, Ben. You know I live for the mystery. Give a man all the answers, and where's the fun in that?"

Ben folded his arms, unimpressed. "You're lucky I like ya, Webhead, or I'd have thrown you out that window by now."

Peter chuckled, walking further into the room. "And ruin your fancy glass? Nah, you wouldn't. Now, while I've got you here..." His tone shifted to something mockingly polite. "Where's Reed? Busy inventing another alternate dimension no one asked for? Or is he still trying to win the award for World's Most Overqualified Living Condom?"

Ben groaned, running a hand over his rocky face. "Really, Pete?"

"What? The guy stretches himself thinner than the truth at one of Tony's press conferences."

Even Sable couldn't hold back her laugh this time. "You're impossible, Parker."

Johnny pointed at Peter again, his face an angry shade of crimson. "This isn't over, Parker! I'll figure it out!"

Peter turned on his heel, starting toward the door with Sable in tow. Over his shoulder, he called out, "Oh, I know it's not over, Johnny. That's what makes it so much fun."

With a final, infuriatingly smug smirk, Peter and Sable disappeared down the corridor, leaving Johnny fuming and Ben shaking his head in weary amusement.

As Peter and Sable walked away from the common area, Peter's usual smirk began to fade. The closer they got to the private quarters of the Richards family, the heavier his steps became. Sable noticed the subtle shift in his demeanor, her sharp gaze catching the faint tension in his jaw.

"You sure you're okay with this?" she asked softly, her voice void of its earlier teasing tone.

Peter hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yeah. I just..." He exhaled deeply, running a hand through his hair. "It's been a while."

Sable didn't press further, knowing when to let him wrestle with his thoughts.

Peter paused outside the door leading to Franklin and Valeria's room. His hand lingered on the doorknob as a wave of uncharacteristic hesitation swept over him. For all his bravado, for all his confidence in facing down Johnny or tossing snide remarks at Ben, this moment was different. This wasn't about sharp words or calculated jabs, this was about them.

Franklin and Valeria.

Taking a deep breath, Peter pushed the door open, and the sight before him hit like a freight train.

The room was exactly as he remembered, cluttered with books, scattered tools from Valeria's latest projects, and Franklin's sketchpads lying open on the desk. But what stopped him cold was seeing them.

Franklin sat cross-legged on the floor, tinkering with what looked like a half-finished drone. Valeria stood nearby, a tablet in hand, muttering something to herself as she swiped through blueprints.

When the door creaked open, they both looked up.

"Uncle Peter?" Valeria's voice was the first to break the silence. Her sharp eyes widened with surprise, but a flicker of joy followed almost instantly.

Franklin's face lit up as well, his expression a mix of shock and elation. "Uncle Pete!" he exclaimed, scrambling to his feet.

Peter stood frozen in the doorway, his usual sarcastic smirk nowhere to be found. He opened his mouth to say something, anything, but the words caught in his throat. His heart ached at the sight of them, the two kids who had been his world once upon a time.

Before he could stop himself, tears blurred his vision. He dropped to his knees, his voice trembling as he held his arms out wide.

"Come here," he whispered, his voice cracking.

Franklin didn't hesitate. He rushed forward, throwing his arms around Peter in a fierce hug. Valeria, usually more reserved, followed suit, her arms wrapping tightly around his neck.

Peter's arms encircled them both, pulling them close as the tears spilled freely down his face. He buried his face in Franklin's hair, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I missed you," he choked out, his words muffled. "I missed you so much."

Franklin's voice was muffled against Peter's shoulder. "We missed you too, Uncle Pete. So much."

Valeria, her cheek pressed against his chest, murmured, "You never visited. Why didn't you visit?"

Peter's grip on them tightened, guilt stabbing through him. "I should have. I should've been here for you both. I'm so sorry..."

For what felt like an eternity, they stayed there, locked in the embrace.

Eventually, Franklin pulled back slightly, looking up at Peter with wide, earnest eyes. "Are you staying this time? Please say you're staying."

Peter brushed a hand through Franklin's hair, his throat tightening again. "I'll try, kiddo. I'll try."

Valeria's arms stayed locked around his neck, her voice soft. "Mom's been crying a lot. We've missed you, but I think she misses you even more."

Peter exhaled shakily, pressing a kiss to Valeria's forehead. "We'll figure it out," he said, though he wasn't sure if he was trying to convince her or himself.

For now, though, none of that mattered. All that mattered was that, for the first time in what felt like forever, he had them in his arms again.

Peter reluctantly loosened his hold on Franklin and Valeria, his hands lingering on their shoulders as if he couldn't quite bring himself to let go. He looked between them, his expression soft in a way that felt foreign after everything he'd become.

He took a shaky breath, his voice trembling as he said, "You have no idea how much I missed you two. Every day. Every single day."

Franklin smiled up at him, his usual wit giving way to raw emotion. "We missed you too, Uncle Pete."

Valeria, ever the more observant one, tilted her head and whispered, "We thought you forgot about us."

Peter's heart shattered at her words. He quickly pulled both children into a tight embrace, his voice cracking. "Never. I could never forget you. Not for a second."

They stayed like that for a moment, the warmth of their hug making Peter feel whole again, even if just for a fleeting moment. But eventually, Peter reluctantly let them go, brushing a hand over Franklin's hair and another over Valeria's cheek.

"Okay," he said, forcing a smile to lighten the mood. "How about we change that today? I was thinking... how about we all go out? There's this great park nearby. You, me, and—" He gestured toward Sable, who had been leaning against the wall, watching the reunion with quiet amusement. "This is Silver Sable, by the way. My partner and the person who makes sure I don't get into too much trouble."

Sable stepped forward, offering a small but sincere smile. "Hello, Franklin. Valeria. Peter's told me a lot about you two. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Franklin grinned. "You sound cool."

Valeria studied her for a moment before nodding approvingly. "And you're pretty. You're way too good for Uncle Peter."

Sable smirked, glancing at Peter. "I like them already."

Peter held a hand to his chest in mock offense. "Et tu, Valeria?"

"Truth hurts," Valeria quipped, and Peter couldn't help but laugh.

"Alright, then," Peter said, standing and ruffling both their heads. "We're hitting the park. Ice cream, pigeons, maybe a bike ride. Sound good?"

"Yeah!" Franklin exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement.

"Definitely!" Valeria agreed.

As they began to head toward the door, a sound from the hallway froze them in place, the faint creak of a door opening. Peter turned slowly, his breath hitching.

There, standing hesitantly in the doorway, was Susan Storm.

Peter blinked, caught off guard. She looked fragile, pale, and alarmingly thin, like a shadow of her former self. Her hair was unkempt, and dark circles lined her eyes, telling the story of sleepless nights and endless worry.

But what struck Peter the most was the shirt she wore, an old, faded souvenir from a family trip to an amusement park years ago. He remembered buying it for her after Franklin spilled ice cream on her blouse. It was strange seeing it again, like a ghost from a happier time.

Susan's watery eyes locked onto Peter. "I... I heard your voice," she said softly, her voice trembling. "I just... I had to see if it was really you."

Peter's usual sharpness faded, replaced by quiet concern. He took a step toward her, his gaze soft. "It's me, Sue."

Susan's lip trembled as she took him in. "You're here," she whispered, almost as if she didn't believe it.

Peter nodded, glancing back at Franklin and Valeria. He could feel their hopeful eyes on both of them, and it gave him the push he needed.

"We were about to head out," Peter said, his voice steady but gentle. "Franklin and Valeria are coming with me to the park. Sable's coming too. You should join us."

Susan froze, clearly taken aback. "Me?"

Peter smiled faintly. "Yeah, you. When was the last time you got out of this place? Had some sunlight? Ate anything that wasn't takeout or leftovers?"

"I don't know if I—"

"No excuses, Sue," Peter interrupted softly but firmly. "The kids need this. And if I'm being honest..." He hesitated, his voice lowering. "I think you need it too."

Susan's gaze shifted between him and the kids. Franklin and Valeria watched her with pleading eyes, and Sable, standing quietly behind Peter, gave her a reassuring nod.

"Please, Mom," Franklin urged. "Come with us. It'll be fun."

Valeria stepped closer, her voice soft but insistent. "We want you to come."

Susan's eyes brimmed with tears, and she clutched the hem of her shirt. After a long pause, she nodded slowly, her voice barely audible. "Okay."

Peter's face softened into a small, genuine smile. "Good. Then let's get moving."

Sable stepped forward, her expression kind as she gently placed a hand on Susan's arm. "You'll be alright," she said, her tone soothing. "We'll take it one step at a time."

As they all headed down the hall together, Peter couldn't help but feel a flicker of something he hadn't felt in a long time. It wasn't complete forgiveness, and it wasn't healing, not yet. But as the kids laughed and Susan quietly followed, there was something close to hope in the air.

And for now, that was enough.

---

Central Park, Early Afternoon

The sky stretched blue and clear over Central Park, sunlight streaming through the canopy of trees and glinting off the calm waters of the nearby pond. The air was alive with laughter, chatter, and the faint tunes of a street performer's violin. The group had found a perfect spot under a large oak tree, its shade providing respite from the warm sun.

Franklin and Valeria sat on the grass, giggling as they devoured their ice cream cones. Peter leaned back against the tree trunk, his own cone in hand, and Sable perched elegantly on a nearby bench, quietly observing the scene. Susan sat beside her, holding her own ice cream but only picking at it, her focus drifting between her children and Peter.

Peter suddenly sat up, an exaggerated look of mischief crossing his face. "Alright, Franklin, Valeria," he called, setting his ice cream down. "I think it's time for a challenge."

Valeria raised an eyebrow, smirking. "What kind of challenge?"

Peter grinned. "Tag. But with one rule, you can't use your powers."

Franklin groaned dramatically. "What? That's not fair! You've got super agility!"

Peter smirked and shrugged. "Life's not fair, kiddo. Besides, I'm out of practice. You might have a chance."

Valeria stood up, crossing her arms. "I don't need powers to beat you, Uncle Peter."

Peter's grin widened. "Big talk, Val. Let's see if you can back it up." He turned and glanced at Franklin. "What about you, Franklin? Ready to prove you've got what it takes?"

Franklin shot up, his competitive spirit ignited. "You're on!"

And just like that, the three of them were off. Peter darted across the grassy clearing with Franklin and Valeria hot on his heels, their laughter ringing out as they tried to catch him. Valeria managed to fake him out, cutting him off and nearly tagging him, but Peter vaulted over a low bench with ease, narrowly escaping.

From their spot on the bench, Sable and Susan watched the scene unfold, the children's laughter blending with Peter's exaggerated taunts.

"He's good with them," Sable said quietly, a small smile playing on her lips.

Susan nodded, her expression softening as she watched Peter pretend to trip, only to roll and pop back up with a playful smirk. "He always has been. Even when things were... complicated."

Sable glanced at her. "They seem to adore him."

"They do," Susan admitted, her voice tinged with something wistful. "He's always made them feel special. Like they're the center of his world." She paused, her eyes lingering on Peter as he let Franklin tackle him to the ground, both of them laughing uncontrollably. "It's why I let them stay close to him after everything."

Sable tilted her head, her gaze flicking between Susan and Peter. "Do they know the truth?"

Susan's head snapped toward her, startled. "What do you mean?"

"About Peter," Sable said, her tone steady but curious. "Do they know he's their father?"

Susan's breath hitched slightly, and she looked away, focusing on the children. Valeria was currently sitting on Peter's back, triumphantly declaring herself the winner, while Franklin tried to pull her off, laughing all the while.

"No," Susan finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "They don't."

Sable's brow furrowed. "Why not? They're old enough to understand."

Susan sighed, setting her untouched ice cream aside. "It wasn't... the right time. There was so much going on when they were younger, Reed's work, the team, the constant battles. And Peter, he wasn't ready either. I thought I was protecting them by keeping it quiet. Protecting him too."

Sable's gaze lingered on Susan, her expression unreadable. "And now?"

Susan hesitated, her hands fidgeting with the edge of her shirt. "I don't know. Part of me thinks they deserve to know. But another part of me..." She trailed off, her voice breaking slightly. "What if it changes how they see him? What if it makes things harder for them?"

Sable leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. "Kids are smarter than we give them credit for. And from what I've seen, they already see Peter as a father figure. Maybe knowing the truth would only make that bond stronger."

Susan's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she looked at Sable. "You think so?"

Sable nodded. "I do. And Peter..." She glanced back at him, now chasing Valeria in circles around a tree. "He clearly loves them more than anything. They deserve to know that, don't you think?"

Susan wiped at her eyes, offering a small, wavering smile. "Maybe you're right."

Before either of them could say more, Peter jogged back over, slightly out of breath but grinning from ear to ear. Franklin and Valeria trailed behind him, equally winded but beaming.

"Alright, alright," Peter said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "You two win. I'm officially too old for this."

"Ha! Told you!" Valeria said, sticking out her tongue.

Franklin laughed. "You're not old, Uncle Peter. You're just out of shape."

Peter clutched his chest dramatically. "Ouch, kid. Right in the ego."

Sable chuckled softly, standing and brushing off her jacket. "Looks like they've got you figured out."

"Yeah, yeah," Peter said, ruffling Franklin's hair. He turned to Susan, his expression softening. "You okay, Sue?"

Susan nodded, her smile more genuine now. "Yeah. I think I am."

Peter studied her for a moment before nodding. "Good. Now, how about we make this day even better? I saw a guy with a kite rental stand earlier. What do you say we give it a shot?"

Franklin's eyes lit up. "Kites? Yes!"

Valeria smirked. "As long as Uncle Peter doesn't crash it into a tree."

"Wow," Peter said, shaking his head. "No faith in me whatsoever."

The group began to head toward the rental stand, the playful banter continuing as they walked. And for the first time in what felt like forever, there was laughter, lightness, and the promise of healing.

---

Central Park, Late Afternoon

The day unfolded like a forgotten dream, one filled with warmth and laughter that none of them wanted to end. After the kite-flying escapade (where Peter did crash a kite into a tree to Valeria's endless amusement), they explored every corner of the park. Franklin and Valeria raced each other through the sprawling fields, rode the carousel twice, and even dared Peter to climb a towering oak tree to retrieve a frisbee Franklin had thrown a bit too enthusiastically.

Peter had obliged with dramatic flair, pretending to struggle as the kids cheered him on, only to leap down effortlessly, frisbee in hand.

"Show-off," Valeria teased, her arms crossed but a grin on her face.

"Learned from the best," Peter replied, tossing her the frisbee.

Sable had captured the entire thing on her phone, chuckling as she framed the perfect shot of Peter pretending to dust off his hands like a victorious superhero. Susan, meanwhile, had started to relax, her earlier hesitance melting away as she watched her children glow with happiness.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the park in hues of orange and gold, the group sat on a picnic blanket Peter had "borrowed" from a passing vendor (with promises to return it). They shared soft pretzels, cotton candy, and sodas, each bite punctuated with laughter and stories.

Peter leaned back on his elbows, his head tilted toward the sky, and let out a contented sigh. "You know, days like this make you forget the world is a dumpster fire sometimes."

Franklin laughed. "Uncle Peter, you're so dramatic."

Valeria smirked. "He's just saying that because he lost at frisbee tag."

"Lost?" Peter gasped, sitting upright. "I let you win, kid. Big difference."

"Sure you did," Valeria teased, grinning.

Sable chuckled, leaning into Peter slightly. "You're surprisingly good with kids."

Peter glanced at her with a warm smile. "Yeah, well, they make it easy."

The kids had just started planning their next activity when Susan and Sable exchanged a glance. Sable gave Susan an encouraging nod, and with a deep breath, Susan called out.

"Peter? Can we talk to you for a second?"

Peter, noticing the serious tone, arched a brow. "Sure thing. Kids, hold tight. Don't go climbing any trees without me."

"We'll wait," Franklin said, though he looked curious about what the adults were planning.

Peter stood and walked a few steps away with Susan and Sable, hands tucked into his jacket pockets. "What's up?"

Susan hesitated, her eyes flickering toward the children before settling on Peter. "It's about the kids."

Peter frowned slightly, his usual playfulness replaced by quiet focus. "Did I overdo it with the frisbee? Or the tree? Valeria seemed fine—"

"No, no," Susan interrupted, shaking her head. "It's not that. It's... well, you've spent so much time with them today. And seeing how happy they are with you..." She glanced at Sable, silently seeking support.

Sable stepped in smoothly. "Susan and I were talking, and we think this might be the right time to tell them."

Peter blinked, taken aback. "Tell them? You mean—"

Susan nodded. "That you're their father."

Peter's mouth opened, but no words came out. For a moment, he stared at Susan, then at the kids, who were laughing about something Franklin had said. He swallowed hard, his throat tightening.

"I don't know..." Peter said, his voice uncharacteristically uncertain. "What if they don't take it well? What if it messes everything up?"

"They adore you," Susan said softly. "They already see you as family, Peter. I think they'd be thrilled to know the truth."

Sable placed a hand on Peter's shoulder. "And you've more than earned the right to tell them. You've been more than just a part of their lives. You've been present. They deserve to know who you really are to them."

Peter hesitated, his hands clenching and unclenching at his sides. He turned back toward the kids, watching them bask in the fading sunlight, their laughter pure and carefree. The thought of disrupting that innocence filled him with equal parts fear and hope.

"They'll be okay," Susan said, her voice steady but warm. "And so will you."

Peter nodded slowly, his shoulders relaxing just a fraction. "Alright," he said, his voice quiet but resolute. "Let's do it."

Susan offered a small, encouraging smile, and Sable squeezed his shoulder gently before stepping back toward the picnic blanket.

Peter followed, his steps deliberate as he approached the kids. Franklin and Valeria looked up expectantly, their expressions curious but still brimming with the joy of the day.

"Hey, you two," Peter said, his voice softer than usual as the warm golden glow of the setting sun bathed the park. He gestured toward the picnic blanket, settling down cross-legged as Franklin and Valeria joined him. The playful chatter of nearby families faded into the background, the air around them growing still as Peter's expression turned serious.

"Franklin, Valeria," Peter began, his voice soft but steady, "there's something I need to tell you. Something important."

Franklin tilted his head, his ice cream cone forgotten as he studied Peter's face. Valeria folded her arms, her curiosity apparent.

Susan and Sable stood a few steps away, their gazes fixed on Peter. Sable gave him a small nod of encouragement, while Susan's hands tightened nervously around her own ice cream cone.

Peter exhaled slowly. "I've been in your lives for a long time. Always there for birthdays, school plays, science fairs, or just to hang out. And I hope I've been someone you've felt you could count on."

"You have," Franklin said without hesitation, his voice unwavering. "You've always been there for us, Uncle Peter."

Peter's throat tightened at the words, but he forced himself to continue. "The thing is... I've always wanted to be there for you, not just as 'Uncle Peter,' but for another reason." He paused, looking from Franklin to Valeria, his voice faltering slightly. "Because I'm not just your uncle. I'm your father."

The words seemed to freeze time. Franklin blinked, his brows furrowing as he tried to process what Peter had just said. Valeria, usually quick to respond, sat perfectly still, her expression unreadable.

"You're... our dad?" Franklin asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Peter nodded, tears beginning to gather in his eyes. "Yeah, buddy. I'm your dad. And I'm sorry it took me so long to tell you."

Valeria's lip quivered, and her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "Somehow... I knew," she said softly.

Her quiet confession broke something in Peter. He reached for them both, his voice cracking. "I've missed you two so much. You have no idea how much I've thought about you, how much I've wanted to tell you this. I love you more than anything in this world."

Franklin stared at him for a moment longer, then suddenly threw his arms around Peter's neck, clinging to him tightly. "Dad," he whispered, his voice shaking.

Valeria followed, wrapping her arms around them both. "I always thought of you as our dad," she said through her tears. "I just... hoped we could call you that one day."

Peter couldn't hold back the flood of emotions any longer. Tears streamed down his face as he hugged them both, his voice thick with joy. "You can call me that," he said, his voice trembling. "I'd love it, I'd love it more than anything."

Susan wiped tears from her own cheeks as she stepped forward, her heart swelling as she watched the scene unfold. Franklin turned to her, his voice still shaky but full of warmth. "Mom, come here."

Susan hesitated only for a moment before joining the hug, her arms encircling Peter and the kids. "We're a family," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Valeria suddenly looked toward Sable, who stood quietly to the side, her expression unreadable. "And you too, Sable," she said firmly.

Sable blinked, clearly surprised. "Me?"

"Yeah," Franklin said, smiling through his tears. "You make Dad happy, and that makes you family too."

Peter laughed, the sound shaky and full of joy. "You heard them, Sable. Get over here."

Sable hesitated, uncharacteristically unsure, but then stepped forward and joined the embrace. Her arms wrapped around them all, her usual icy demeanor melting into a rare, genuine smile.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the park in a warm amber glow, the newly reunited family held each other tightly. It was a moment filled with love, healing, and the promise of a brighter future, one they would face together, no matter what came next.

---

Baxter Building, Midnight

The city was quiet as night blanketed Manhattan, the stars barely visible through the haze of light pollution. Inside the Baxter Building, the dimmed lights cast long shadows down the hallways. Peter carried both Franklin and Valeria in his arms, their small bodies limp with the heavy sleep of children who had spent the entire day laughing and playing.

Franklin's head rested on Peter's shoulder, while Valeria clung to his chest, her tiny hand still loosely gripping his jacket. Their breaths were soft and rhythmic, and Peter couldn't help but smile as he felt the warmth of their trust and love radiating through him.

As he approached their room, Peter paused. The soft hum of the building's machinery filled the silence, and he looked down at them, his voice barely above a whisper. "I love you two," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "More than anything. I always have. Always will."

He bent his head, placing a tender kiss on Franklin's forehead, then another on Valeria's. Neither stirred, lost in peaceful dreams.

Pushing open the door with his foot, Peter stepped inside and gently laid them down on their beds. Franklin mumbled something incoherent, while Valeria nestled deeper into her pillow. Peter tucked the covers around them, smoothing back a stray strand of Valeria's hair before stepping back.

"Goodnight," he whispered, his voice trembling slightly. "My kids."

Closing the door with a soft click, Peter turned to find Susan waiting in the hallway. She was leaning against the wall, her hands clasped together nervously. The dim light revealed the traces of dried tears on her cheeks, but her eyes were filled with something else now, hope.

"They're everything to you, aren't they?" Susan asked softly, her voice barely audible over the hum of the building.

Peter leaned back against the opposite wall, letting out a deep breath. "Yeah," he admitted, his voice raw with honesty. "They're everything I have left."

Susan swallowed hard, her gaze dropping to the floor. "Peter," she began hesitantly, "I know I've hurt you. I know I made mistakes that...I can never take back. But—"

Peter cut her off gently. "Susan," he said, his voice steady but soft, "I've spent a long time angry. At you, at Reed, at the world. But holding onto that anger...it didn't help. It didn't fix anything. And seeing the kids today, hearing them call me 'Dad'...that's what matters now."

Susan's eyes filled with fresh tears, her voice trembling. "Does that mean...you forgive me?"

Peter looked at her, the tension in his shoulders easing as he nodded. "Yeah. I forgive you." He hesitated before adding, "And I'm willing to give us another chance. For the kids."

A sob escaped Susan as she stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him tightly. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "Thank you, Peter. I promise I'll do everything I can to make this right."

Peter held her for a moment before pulling back gently. "You don't have to promise anything. Just...be there for them. That's all I ask."

Susan nodded, tears streaming down her face, but for the first time in a long while, she smiled. "I will," she said firmly. She turned and headed back to her room, her steps lighter than they'd been in years.

Peter watched her go, a small smile on his face, before heading toward the elevator where Sable waited. As the doors slid open, Johnny stormed into the hallway, his face red with anger.

"Parker!" Johnny shouted, pointing an accusatory finger. "What the hell do you think you're doing?"

Peter sighed, stepping into the elevator with Sable but holding the doors open. "I'm leaving, Johnny. What's it look like?"

"You're trying to break up this family!" Johnny snapped, his voice echoing through the hallway. "You have no right to come in here and wreck everything!"

Peter raised an eyebrow, his tone calm but sharp. "Break up the family? Johnny, I just told Franklin and Valeria the truth, that I'm their father. You think I'm the one who's going to break things up? What do you think's gonna happen when the world finds out that Susan Storm's kids aren't Reed's? How's that gonna play with your whole 'perfect family' image?"

Johnny's face paled, his anger faltering. "They, they won't believe you!" he said desperately. "No one will believe you!"

Peter smirked, stepping fully into the elevator and letting the doors begin to close. "Why not?" he asked smugly. "You do."

With that, he wrapped an arm around Sable's shoulders. She, who had been silent the whole time, gave Johnny a cold, appraising look as the elevator doors slid shut, leaving Johnny standing alone in the hallway, stunned and horrified.

---

Parker Industries, The Next Morning

The sunlight streamed through the tall glass windows of Parker Industries' headquarters, illuminating the sleek, modern interior. Peter Parker stepped into his office, his sharp black suit and crisp tie giving him an air of authority. As the doors slid shut behind him, his gaze immediately landed on the desk.

There it was, a steaming cup of black coffee with two sugars, set neatly next to a stack of organized documents. A knowing smirk tugged at Peter's lips as he approached the desk, the scent of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

"Guess some habits die hard," he murmured to himself, picking up the cup and taking a sip. The warmth of the coffee and the familiar taste gave him a brief moment of solace before the demands of the day took hold.

He sat down, his fingers brushing over the touch-screen interface built into the desk, bringing up a holographic display of the company's latest projects. He worked through them methodically, ensuring everything was running smoothly. Whether it was overseeing research into new web-fluid variants, reviewing the latest designs for Parker Industries' medical tech, or approving shipments to clients around the globe, Peter handled each task with precision.

His attention was briefly drawn to a report about increased security measures for the company's labs, a necessity given his high-profile conflicts lately. His smirk turned into a grim line. Better safe than sorry.

As he continued his work, his intercom buzzed.

"Mr. Parker," Anna Maria Marconi's familiar voice came through, her tone calm yet professional.

Peter pressed a button on the desk. "What's up, Anna?"

"You have a visitor asking to discuss business," Anna replied.

Peter leaned back in his chair, sipping his coffee. "Do I have a name?"

There was a pause before Anna's voice came back, slightly more hesitant. "Maria Hill."

The coffee cup froze midway to Peter's lips, his expression flickering with intrigue. Slowly, he set the cup down, his mind already racing.

"Maria Hill, huh?" he muttered to himself before responding through the intercom. "Send her up."

Peter leaned back in his chair, his smirk returning as he stared out the window, the city sprawling before him. Whatever this was about, he knew one thing for certain: it was bound to be interesting.

Thanks for reading everyone

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