The symbiote climbed up his body. Harry tried to scream for help, but no words came out of his mouth. It slashed through his skin, sinking its sharp claws into his flesh and from there continued journey into the internal organs. The boy spat blood, paralyzed by fear. The symbiote's tongue came out of his mouth, taking full control of him.
"H-help...helppp..."
But no one came. Not his friends or his father. Harry was alone. It scared him more than the pain he had to deal with.
"P-Pete...Dad...!"
Those were his last words. Anti-Venom grabbed his hands and ripped them off. Nothing stopped the bloody shower anymore. It went on, and on, and on...
/
"Hey, you!"
"Uhh?", Harry blinked his eyes. Some soldier pushed him with his gun.
"Y-yeah?"
"Quit napping! Our job is to keep an eye on Osborn."
"R-right", Harry straightened himself, covering his face better with the helmet. After long thinking, Osborns decided that it would be too risky if Norman disappears, so they made a new plan. The man would continue working under Ock's pressure, and Harry would play a role as his guard. That's how they could learn secret information about this place and their enemy's plans. Luckily everything went smoothly and Octavius was too busy to pay attention to this arrangement.
"And if I'm going to help you, I demand a separate, private room. And every night I must have a good night's sleep", Norman said, hands crossed.
"What makes you think you can make orders around here?!", Ock walked back and forth, eyeing his enemy. "Are you some princess, huh?!"
"I need space to invent things. As a genius, you should know it."
"Arrhhh...you and your big ego...fine! If you weren't that useful, I would throw you overboard."
"You are still free to do so. I'm not hesitating."
"Hardy har har", Ock spat. "Here are the minerals, Kraven will give you detailed instructions. Now, I'm out of here."
"But don't you want to make sure I do good work?", Norman asked teasingly.
"Hah, I come to see the results. I trust you are wise enough to keep your stupid inner thoughts to yourself. Remember, Parker's aunt and others..."
"Yes yes", Norman answered. Grunting, Ock left the room.
"Well, you heard him. Here is a list of weapons you must build. I guess you remember these?", Kraven took the minerals from a big locked iron box.
"Yes, I do. But the ones I used earlier were fakes. You were just using my knowledge and skills."
"You surely are clever", the baddie grinned. "Now, orders are simple: this bucket here contains a liquid made of the stones. Here are prototypes of these weapons. You fix them, make the shooting radar better and after that, they will be coated with this substance. Got it?"
"I guess...how many must I make?"
"As many as you are given. But now, I have to rush. You come with me", Kraven pointed at Harry. Norman whipped around immediately.
"M-me?"
"Yeah, it's time for daily patrol. Don't you remember, faggot?!"
"I uhh, sure", Harry deepened his voice. He had no idea what Kraven meant.
"Too bad we need every walking creature to work and I can't put a bullet into your skull", Kraven muttered. "Now, follow me!"
"Yes, sir", Harry started following, making a very nervous expression at his father who shared it. But they could not do anything about it. It would be too risky and Harry's cover would be blown. It was already miraculous that they didn't get caught when Harry brought his father back to the dungeon last night and he spent the night in the closet.
Maybe luck is on our side at last.
"Good. We will switch places later", Kraven slammed a gun into Harry's hands before forcing him out of the room. Norman had to use all of his strength and patience to keep himself under control. His paternal instinct arose critically and it was hard to fight against it.
"Be careful...", he whispered when the doors closed. As soon as this mess is over, he and Harry would change their whole lives...
And that's a promise I intent keep. Forever.
-o-o-o-
"Ah, I see you returned", Ock greeted Ambrose who flew into the room. "Was it hard to say a farewell?"
"Of course. My poor little grandson is gone...gone! And I was so horrible to him..."
"There there now", Ock showed comfort in his typical, annoying way. Which meant he was secretly enjoying Norman's suffering. Like he always did.
"Well, you can't bring him back. We have to move on and make him proud. That is my goal", The Red Gobby jumped onto his glider.
"I understand. I put Normie to work, so if you wanna spend some time with him, you know the location", Ock took a glass of wine.
"Absolutely. We are the only ones left now. And what kind of father would I be if I don't support my child? I'm going to be a better role model from now on. Norman still clearly needs parenting. I do my best to rebuild our relationship."
"You have my blessing. He isn't the easiest person as we both know."
"Don't worry, I know how to handle him. I have something in mind already."
"Oh?"
Oh yes...", Ambrose left the office behind, tail swinging wildly in the air like he was a newborn puppy. Despite Ock liked his older ally, some Osborn traits he would never be able to understand.
That's one pathetic family. Totally pathetic.
"Octavius...you're there...?"
"Uhh", Ock rolled his eyes, pushing the button. "Yes, Taskmaster?"
"Didn't you say we must meet you know where? Or are you being best buds with that stupid, superannuated Osborn?"
"Never peace...coming, coming!", Ock stood up, leaving the office as well. As the shadows swallowed him once again, he grinned when he thought what kind of surprises Ambrose has for his son.
-o-o-o-
"Alright, here we are", Kraven stopped after dragging Harry across the whole iland.
Thank god..., the boy thought. Being around this asswipe was ugly.
"So, where do we start? That's right, there are some old closets we must check and put out of use. And you will..."
"Kraven!"
"Now what?!", he turned around. Harry noticed another soldier coming towards them with very fast steps. It made the boy nervous.
"What is it?"
"I'm sorry, but one of my co-workers started feeling ill and now there is no one looking after the prisoners. I would go, but..."
"No one changes position here without consulting me first. But luckily we can always make switches. You join me and you", Kraven said to Harry again "You are gonna guard them while we check the rest of this place. I'm gonna pick you up when it's time to go back to Osborn. Go it?"
"Yes, sir...", Harry nodded. This was a good opportunity to talk with his friends.
"Good. Here is the key", Kraven gave it to the boy. "And no delays!"
"R-right", the disguised young man gulped as he was left alone. Too bad he had no idea where the dungeon actually was. Norman tried to explain but well...
I guess I have no choice but to find it.
Starting to walk, Harry looked around. He was desperate to find Peter, but it was getting harder and harder. He had not forgotten his best friend and never will. But deep down, he would want to run away. Take his father and leave others behind. Horrible, isn't it?
I have become cold. I only care for Dad right now. Darn...
Harry was afraid to face Peter. He feared he will never forgive him. He stabbed his BFF in the back so brutally. Guilt ate his heart moment by moment. No one can even imagine how painful it is.
Okay, let's think about this. Where are the dungeons? I bet those green creepy stairs next to me have nothing to do with...
*Steps*
"Oh crap, I better go...", Harry rushed downstairs. His instincts told him this was the right direction. And he was right.
"I can't be mistaken. This must be the place. But which one of these...?"
"Flash, this room is not big enough to fool around! Please, give me some space!"
"Hah, and where do you think I should go?! I'm an athletic sports-star! I need more space than you!"
"Boys, please..."
"Yes", Harry smiled, heading towards the voices. Luckily Flash was a very loud individual when he felt insulted.
Let's hope they don't attack me...
Putting the key into the lock, Harry prepared himself and opened the door. Voices silenced immediately and the trio turned to see him.
"Ahah, one of you scums again. What do you want now?", Flash mocked.
"Flash, please", Alex begged him. "This isn't helping us."
"Who cares! They took Mr. O again! What sick things are you forcing him to do?!"
"Guys", Harry tried to calm them down. "Please, you need to stay quiet."
"Do not order me!", Flash stood up, clenching his fists. "My two pals are gone because of you!"
"No, you got it all wrong!"
"What?!"
"It's true", Harry looked over his shoulder, and after making sure they were alone, he revealed his face. Everyone gasped.
"HAH HAH, I knew it! You are alive", Flash grabbed Harry, giving him a noogie.
"Hey, cut it out! Someone can come!", the young Osborn dragged himself free.
"Sorry. But I was right, once again!"
"I'm happy to see you, Harry. I really thought...", Alex couldn't continue.
"Yeah, good to see you too. And you, Aunt May..."
"Harry darling", May smiled at him.
"I...well...", Hary muttered, rubbing his neck nervously. For some reason, he couldn't meet May's gaze.
"Something wrong, dear?"
"I uh...I...", he kept babbling. Words didn't come out of his mouth properly.
Come on, be a man...
"It's alright. I know what has happened here. Flash told me."
"O-okay..."
"Honey, look at me. Please", May encouraged the boy. Finally, he lifted his head.
"Harry, you don't have to be afraid of me. I know you and Peter have had some problems. Your father told me."
"Actually, it was me...", Flash interrupted her. Alex elbowed him angrily.
"How about you keep your mouth shut for more than ten seconds? It would be a new record!"
"Be quiet, whimper", Flash pushed him away from him. Harry chuckled a little but then his face turned serious as he focused on May.
"Aunt May, I...I'm so sorry! I never meant to hurt Pete! He is my best friend and I miss him so much! I hope you can understand that I wasn't thinking clearly when Ock came and..."
"I know, dear", Aunt May took Harry's hand into her own. "You are a good boy and I'm not blaming you for anything. That madman is responsible for this horrible chaos. I'm sure Peter understands it."
"That's what Dad keeps saying...but I'm not sure. He was so mad and..."
"You have to forgive yourself and move on. And besides, we don't have time to dwell in sadness. We must stop them", May said seriously.
"Agreed, so suck it up!", Flash commanded Harry. "You aren't any use if you keep acting like a crybaby."
"Sorry, sorry", Harry murmured. "Always happy to see you, Flash."
"Of course. But now, enough of chit-chatting! How did you get here? Did you know that your father was taken by Ock and is forced to help him with his evil plans? And..."
"I know everything. And before you ask how, let me tell you. I don't have much time."
"Bring it on."
To save time, Harry explained as fast as he could what happened after Osborns left Flash in the labyrinth. He hated to repeat the details but it was important.
"Woah, you were very lucky! I would have never been as brave as you", Alex said after the story was over.
"I didn't have a choice. Trust me, I hate this place", Harry answered him.
"It's sick, yeah. But it's not fair you get to walk around freely and we must sit here! I say we beat up those losers!", Flash slammed his fists together.
"Hah, how? All of us are powerless", Alex leaned his hand against his head.
"I hate you...", his former bully muttered. May shared a pitiful smile with Harry.
"Don't worry Flash, I'm getting you out of here. But I beg you to wait. If we do something foolish, Dad pays. I can't risk his life."
"But..."
"Please. If you see me as your best bud, you do as I say. I know I shouldn't have a right to ask this..."
"I get it, man. Your father is in a very nasty situation. He told us what he is forced to do."
"Then you understand. Just try to avoid making attention and we make a plan to get you out. I play a secret role as Dad's guard and he has a private room where he spends nights from now on. We have plenty of time to discuss things."
"Are you sure that Ock won't notice at some point?", Alex asked, worried.
"Well, we think about it then. Let's hope he won't", Harry responded. "I do my best to prevent it."
"I guess that's all we can do. Fine, I promise to keep my temper in check. Just hurry up", Flash put his hands over his head.
"I will. I'm not resting until everything is back to normal and Peter is found. He must be here, Kraven and Taskmaster are never together at the same time. One of them is always somewhere."
"Good point. If we only knew the location...unless!", Alex took a small communication device from his pocket and opened it. "Good, I have enough batteries left."
"Do you carry this stuff along wherever you go?", Flash raised his eyebrows.
"You have muscles, I have brains", he ignored his friend's sarcastic tone. "But it seems there is some sort of network. It's weak, but I think I'm able to access it anonymously. So..."
"Do you think you could find out where Peter is?", Aunt May asked.
"I guess if we're lucky. IF."
"That's better than nothing. Okay, do your magic", Flash smiled. "In the meantime, I can gather my strength."
"I ask Dad if he can make a cure for you and free the Venom symbiote. I'm sure he knows some tricks", Harry stood up. "But now, I must go back. I'm worried about him."
"Thanks for stopping by. Sneak here whenever you can", Flash lifted his thumbs.
"I will", Harry put the helmet on and walked to the door. "Have faith guys, we will get through this."
"I'm sure we will. May God be with you and your father", May smiled. Smiling back, Harry disappeared to the corridor. Rushing back towards the hall, he hoped that luck stays by his side longer.
Sure you can always hope...
-o-o-o-
Back in the hall, Norman worked with the weapons as Kraven instructed him. He hated it, he hated this place, he hated these worthless criminals who used his brains for evilness. He hated how he was forced to let Harry run around here without protection. It was his underestimation.
"How's it going?"
Closing his eyes, Norman couldn't believe this. Why now?
"What do you want?", he asked Ambrose, not turning around. But his father flew past him and landed on the other side of the table.
"Why are you always so negative towards me? Can't we get along for once?"
"Hah! As if you wanted that."
"Believe it or not, I do. After all, there is just the two of us. Now that Harold..."
"DON'T say his name", Norman gritted his teeth.
"Why?"
"Because you have no right. Just leave me alone, please."
"Look, I understand you're angry and upset. But please, I'm an old man and you are my only living relative. I need you, son", Ambrose said.
"Need me?! For what? For manipulation, torture, or ego polishing?"
"Not to any of those. Maybe you don't believe this, but I do care for you."
"Of course you do. Anything else?", Norman took the next gun and started fixing it. Ambrose sat down, letting the tail wipe all the stuff down from the table.
"Whoops", he said. "My bad."
Remaining silent, Norman knelt and started picking pieces from the ground. His father leaned back in his chair, taking a relaxing position.
"Don't worry, I'm not in a rush. We have plenty of time to catch up."
"Why can't you stop pretending?! I know you came here to mock me. Be a man and admit it! Otherwise, you're a coward", Norman said angrily. But Ambrose just chuckled.
"My boy, my dear pathetic boy. I can't believe you turned out like this. After everything I did for you..."
"DID?! YOU DID NOTHING! YOU TEASED ME AND -"
"Oh my god, there's no need in shouting! You are not a kid anymore, Norman. I can see you have serious troubles. Don't worry though, I'm here to help."
Norman didn't know what to say anymore. Ambrose's shell was like a bulletproof vest - no matter how hard you shot, not a single scratch. This man was completely rotten and worst of all, he knew it. He knew it very fucking well and enjoyed it.
"I don't know what to say to you anymore. You are the worst human being walking on this Earth. I despise the fact that we share the same genes."
"Family is a painful thing, don't you think? Speaking of family ties, do you remember your grandfather, Alton Osborn?"
"What about him?"
"He was the man behind my raising. He told me that no whiners will survive in this world and he was right. I was teased because I was different than the rest of the kids. And do you know why? Because I was better than them. And they were so jealous that they couldn't stand it. So I learned my lesson and fought back. And eventually, I put them to the ground. Those whiny weeping stones. Always crying and never trying."
"Why are you telling me this?", Norman asked bitterly.
"I try to make you see my pov. I wanted to save you from humiliation and that's why I used hard manners. I wanted to make you stronger, the best of all", Ambrose answered.
"There are several ways to avoid humiliation. You didn't think what's best for me, you simply tortured me because that's who you are. And it's the fact, no matter what you say!"
"Oh, my poor heart...I have failed. No wonder you are such a disaster. Your mother would turn in her grave if she could hear how ungrateful you are", The Red Gobby wiped his eye corners.
"Don't talk about my mother", Norman slammed his fist against the table. "You drove her to a premature grave, destroyed her the same way you destroyed me! You can make it sound like she died from an illness or something but I know the truth. She died because she couldn't stand you. For years I sat in my room, listening to how you beat her up when you were drunk…oh if I only I would have been older…"
"You sure adore that bitch. Even though you don't know..."
"Know?", Norman stared at Ambrose. Somehow he had a bad feeling about the direction of this conversation.
"Ah, why should I hide it? Did you really think your mother died from an illness?"
"Yes...?"
"Well, the truth isn't as simple as you think. But with your state of mind, I'm not sure if..."
"Spit it out! You never let me see her or attend the funeral. James told me it was for the best and I believe him. But I also believe you forced him to keep me away for some reason. What did you do to her?!"
"So you really think I'm a murderer, don't you?"
"The killer of emotions at least."
"Hah, now that's a good one! Oh, I love it. But yes, where was I? Well as you know, your mother was always very sensitive just like you. She always cried and lived so emotionally. In the end, it drove her insane."
"You can't blame her for that. Living with you was absolute hell. But I can tell that you are hiding something. Let it out!"
"I knew this day would come...and I guess I owe you. Well, here it goes - your mother didn't literally die when you were a child. One night, she had a mental breakdown and I put her in a sanatorium, hoping she would get better. But it was not the case..."
Norman's face turned pale. His eyes widened with shock.
"W...WHAT?!"
"I told you this might hurt. I visited her during the years but she never recovered. She passed away shortly after Harold was born. Funny how life can be cruel...", Ambrose shrugged.
"Are...are you telling me that you lied about my mother half of my life?! That she was actually alive the whole time and I could have visited her and help her?! WHY?! WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME?!"
"I wanted to protect you. She wasn't the same she used to be. It would only have hurt you if you would have seen how bad her condition is."
"THAT'S NOT THE POINT! You made me believe she is dead! Buried into the ground! I visited an empty grave for years! IT WAS ALL A LIE!", Norman yelled.
"I'm so sorry. You were too young to understand", Ambrose "apologized."
"Young?! I loved her! She was the only safe adult in my life besides James! When I was alone and you abused us, she comforted me! And then you took it all away! How can you do this to a child?! How sick can you be?!"
"I'm sure you will understand when the time comes. This is something you must think about a lot."
"I DON'T KNOW WHAT I SHOULD THINK! I could have helped her! She could have met Emily and see Harry! Her only grandchild! And you ruined it! YOU BASTARD! YOU SHITPIECE!", Norman roared maniacally. His nerves were giving up.
Ambrose just sat in silence, watching how Norman collapsed to his knees and held his head.
"This can't be happening...now I see why I turned out to be like this...my whole life has been a lie from the start..."
"Good that you see it now. She couldn't have helped you. No one can."
"She must have thought I was so mad that I abandoned her...why?! Why...?!"
"Welcome to the Osborn family, son. We are nothing, but a bunch of snakes. You taught me that."
Norman held his tears. Now he started realizing why he was unable to show love and care for Harry and why their relationship was so troubled. Why his son was mentally broken and suffered from deep trusting issues. Lies, damned lies one after another. It was horrible that Ambrose didn't even bother denying these things and showed no guilt or remorse.
My whole life is built on lies. I can't take this anymore...I can't...
"Why...why are you doing this to me?! What bad have I ever done to you?!"
"Oh Norman, you haven't done anything. You were born this way. And if you are born with bad traits, nothing can be done. That's how life is."
"Perhaps you're right...after all, you're always right..."
"Good point. Remember, father knows best. Too bad same can't be said for you anymore...", Ambrose finished. But Norman was too tired to answer. Way too tired.
"Anyway, it was good talking to you. Now that all the secrets have been revealed and the atmosphere cleansed, we can begin to converge. Take back all those years and be a real father and son. What do you say?"
Instead of mocking back, Norman wept in his grief. Was this hell never going to end? Was he meant to be a victim of this horrible circle for the rest of his life? What could he do about it?
I don't know.
*Moment later*
Harry had finally gotten rid of Kraven and earned permission to switch places with the other soldier who was guarding Norman. The teen rushed towards the hall as fast as he could but still avoiding attention. He had a very uncomfortable feeling in his heart, like something bad was happening.
I hope everything is alright...
Finally arriving at the door, Harry went into the hall. His heart stopped nearly beating when he spotted Ambrose with his father.
Oh no, he's back...
"Ahemm...it's time for switch", he announced and then walked to his two relatives. "Everything alright here...?"
"Yes, I was just leaving. And...", Ambrose started but then Norman stood up.
"Could you take me to my room, please?", he asked Harry. His tone surprised the boy, it was so formal. Even though they had to keep a low profile and emotions in balance, something sounded weird.
"But you have hardly done anything. It's not -"
"SHUT UP", Norman raised his voice at his father but he didn't yell. Now Harry knew something had happened. His feelings weren't wrong.
"If that's what you wish", Harry tried to act professional, taking the gun Kraven gave him and pointed it unwillingly at his father. Sure he took the bullets off earlier.
"My my, I wonder what will Octavius say if he hears that you are lazing. He's the son I've always wanted: tough, strong, intelligent, smart. Everything you're not", Ambrose grinned.
"I don't care. Just take me away from this sick place", Norman nodded at his disguised son.
"V-very well. Walk", the boy "forced" him to walk. What on earth had happened?
-o-o-o-
Some minutes later Osborns stepped in their private room and after Harry closed the door, he took his mask off.
"Dad, what was that all about?! Why was Ambrose there with you?"
Walking to the corner, Norman collapsed on the floor. His gaze was empty.
"Dad, are you okay?", Harry knelt in front of him, putting his hands on his father's knees.
"I...I..."
"I'm sorry it took so long time to get back. But I had a chance to see Flash and the gang, they are doing well. They know how I got here and everything else. Alex said that he could find out Peter's location and -"
Norman didn't listen. He stared at the wall, not showing any interest in his son's story.
"Dad, are you listening?"
"Huh?", the man turned to his boy. "What did you say?"
"Okay, something is wrong. Did that wacko hurt you somehow?"
"My whole life...it's...it's..."
"Yeah?", Harry asked, concerned. "Your life is what?"
"A big damn lie!", Norman stood up and started pacing around the room.
"A lie? What do you mean?"
"Everything I believed in has been nothing, but lies and lies! No wonder this family is unhealthy and full of problems!"
"Dad..."
"Why me?! What did I do to deserve this?! I did wrong and I thought I paid for my mistakes! But no..."
"Dad...", Harry tried but Norman ignored him. Finally, his temper gave up.
"DAD!", he yelled, earning his father's attention.
"Would you please stop this rambling and tell me what is going on?! I don't understand a word you say and it's scary!"
"I...I'm sorry", Norman calmed down. "But don't raise your voice to me."
"I didn't mean it. I just need to know what happened back there. When I saw Ambrose, I knew he had done something. So what did he do?", Harry asked.
"I...I can't tell you. It's too horrible."
"No, you must. I'm not made of glass. I can handle it."
"I don't think you can. You are too young to understand."
"Dad, I'm 16. And if this affects you, it affects me. We're the family and a family can't work if someone suffers. So tell me."
Sitting down, Norman rubbed his arms. Suddenly, he burst into sobbing.
"Hey!", Harry sat next to him. "What's wrong? Did I say something stupid?"
"No, you didn't...it's my psycho father and his insane plots. It concerns your grandmother. Have I ever told about her?"
"Something. You told me she was the one who raised you before she passed away. You loved her very much and her death wounded you deeply. Why?"
"Yes, she was the best mother you could ever hope. She never yelled and always defended me. She would have adored you..."
"Dad...what is this about? Somehow I have a feeling you are gonna reveal something nasty", Harry sounded suspicious. Norman sighed, his son knew him better than he even realized.
"Yes, you're right. The truth is, my whole life has been turned upside down. And I don't know how I can put it back together."
"Why are you saying like that?"
"Because of what I heard. I'm still hesitating to tell you but then again, you need to know. So...my mother didn't die when I was a kid. She was put in a mental hospital by Ambrose and she lived there for many years until passed away shortly after you were born. And all this time, I didn't know...", Norman shattered. Harry couldn't believe this.
"Please tell me this is a joke, right? RIGHT?!"
"It's not...my mother was alive this whole time while I built my so-called empire and made money. She must have thought I abandoned her..."
"But how can this be possible?! I mean it's too insane!", Harry shook his head.
"Harry, it's not impossible when we are talking about my lunatic old man. He separated me from the person I loved deeply, punished us both for not admiring him. I lived my whole childhood mourning an empty grave, blaming her for leaving me behind. But she never did so...", Norman swallowed his words.
"She must have known you cared about her. I'm sure of it."
"How could she?! I never visited her and focused on getting rich instead of raising you! If I only had known the truth, I would have saved her. She would slap me in the face if she could see how ignorant I was in the past..."
"But you didn't know. It's not your fault."
"I know it isn't...but it makes me feel so guilty. I always thought I knew myself but now I have no idea how I am anymore. My life is nothing but a web of lies..."
"Dad, you must forgive yourself. You were just a kid and you changed your habits, even though the lesson was painful. But you did it. You are not like Ambrose, you are much better", Harry assured Norman.
"It's not the point! You suffered because of this! She would have helped you and make me understand what is most important in life after Emily's death. I turned into a monster thanks to my hunger for power and it left you eternal mental scars. I can never forgive myself...", Norman grabbed his temples. Harry started trembling.
"Dad, please don't say that! You are my father and I love you. And nothing can ever change that fact. Don't let Ambrose win, please!"
Lifting his gaze, Norman saw how frightened his poor son was. It scared him as well.
"And even though Grandma wasn't part of our lives, I'm sure she knew you cared. I know it's hard to accept that nothing will bring her back but you can't forget yourself. If you do, all of your goals and determination are wiped away by Ambrose's manipulation and sadistic control. You have come this far so I beg you, don't give up..."
"Oh son...", Norman closed the boy onto his lap. "Forgive me, I..."
"Since if you forget yourself, then I will hate you. I swear I will!", Harry threatened, silent tears in his eyes.
"I won't, I'm sorry if I sounded defeated. Despite your young age, you are so wise. Wiser than me."
"Maybe...", Harry sniffed. "Because sometimes, you are so stupid."
"Fair enough", Norman smiled a little. "But am I glad to have you. And I will never let go. For the sake of my mother and Emily."
"Mm-hmm", the young man smiled back. At the same second, the door was slammed open and The Red Gobby walked in.
"Hah hah, so I was right. Nice to see you again, Harold."
"Stay the hell away from us!", Norman commanded. "GET OUT!"
"Always acting so tough. But you know you can't do anything to stop me", Ambrose made a sudden move and wrapped his tail around Harry, pulling the teenager next to him.
"HARRY!", Norman reached his hand towards his son. "Release him!"
"Tsk, tsk, I don't think so. This cunning little rat thought he was clever by playing dead. Even I fell for it for a moment."
"Let go of me, you ruthless nutjob!", Harry struggled.
"Just like his father. No manners, rude and sassy. But oh well, it's not a surprise...", Ambrose rolled his eyes.
"Do you really want me to dig your eyes out of your head?! LET MY SON GO!", Norman hissed and clenched his fists.
"I would like to see how you are going to do that. But rip them out, baby! I'm ready."
"Don't sink to his level, Dad. He's not worth it", Harry said. Ambrose turned to look at him.
"Is that so?"
"Yeah!"
"Very well, how about we dig your eyes out instead? Wanna have the honor, Norman?", Ambrose moved Harry in front of him, using him as a shield.
"NO! Just let him go", Norman begged.
"And what if I don't?"
Norman remained silent. The act made The Gobby irritated.
"Blah, you're not any fun by acting like a pussy. Here, take him", Ambrose threw Harry back at Norman.
"How did you know I was here? Did you stalk me in the shadows, freak?!"
"Don't you remember that I have excellent sensory? I smelled you from far. So stinky and ughh..."
"Hah, like you have a right to criticize people! I never saw my grandmother because of you!", Harry said angrily despite Norman tried to stop him. When Ambrose heard this, he started laughing.
"Oh I see, you told him. Well, I guess we shouldn't let the heir of the Osborn family live in lies."
"I'm not your heir. I never will be. You are awful, sadistic, rude, heartless, wacko, insane, a lunatic, a monster, a bastard...", Harry listed. But the more he did so, the more he poured gasoline into Ambrose's egoistic flames. Even Norman knew this, provoking his father was the worst thing you could do. As a narcissist, he enjoyed attention no matter was it good or bad.
"Son, stop it. This isn't the right way."
"You sure have failed your task, Norman. Your son is as brainless as you. Oh dear, oh, dear..."
"And you are weak. You hang out with these losers because you have no power to succeed on your own. How's that feel?", Harry kept mocking. This time, the old man's expression changed.
"What did you say...?"
"W-E-A-K. Want me to repeat it?"
"You little brat", Ambrose was just about to attack Harry until Norman got between them at the last minute.
"Stop it! I will let this slide if you just go."
"He started it!", Harry pointed with his finger. "He lied to you for years! And now you are just gonna let him get away with this?!"
"Harry, CUT it out", Norman commanded seriously, then he turned to Ambrose. "Now, LEAVE."
"He is gonna tell Ock about me! Dad!"
"No worries. I won't tell about you, not just yet. We clearly have some family business to sort out. But I will certainly keep an eye on you so don't bother planning anything stupid. And remember, I smell you no matter where you are", The Reddy fled out of the room, leaving his relatives behind.
"How can you let him walk away?! What's wrong with you?!", Harry said angrily.
"Provoking him as you do is not the way. It will only make him mad. Trust me, I know", Norman said, defending his actions. His boy had troubles to understand this.
"But fearing and doing as he says is not right either! We must fight!"
"I know we do. But I told you not to raise your voice. And you know you aren't allowed to behave rudely or abruptly towards me."
"It's not my intention. But you let him treat you like trash. You have to stand up for yourself! For me..."
"I know. I just need to get my thoughts together like -", Norman began but Harry grabbed his arm.
"No, I need you now! As my father, it's your job to protect me. I expect you to do it because it's what you must do."
"Yes, of course", Norman smiled.
"You're sure?", Harry sounded a bit doubtful.
"I am. But you won't run all over this place anymore. You are staying with me."
"How? I'm the only one who can help others. I promised them."
"I must be honest with you, Harry. This situation is now life-threatening. We think of our family first, then Peter and your friends. I know you don't like this, but you have to understand my pov."
"I guess I do. I'm starting to lose hope for finding Pete anyway..."
"Let's focus on ourselves for now. Don't worry about anything else. Okay?"
"Okay. I'm sure you know how to fix things", Harry smiled when Norman pulled him into a hug. Resting his chin against his son's head, the troubled man hid his nervous expression.
I do hope, son. I do hope.