Summary: Peter and Harry grow starry eye as they discuss their future careers as college students. Harry, however, crosses an unexpected roadblock from Norman.

Destine Paths and Open Doors

An auburn teen stood by a counter top in his well-furnished kitchen. He was placing a full tempered glass container into an insulated bag. He also packed the stainless steel utensils and three-ply napkins. He carefully ensured that each item was tucked safely in its place. Behind him was the kitchen sink. The two basins were crowded with pots and cutting boards along with suds. They were currently soaking. His blue eyes fell on the microwave clock.

"Better get this to him while it's still hot," he cheerfully said aloud.

Holding his warmed package, he made his way out of the kitchen. He exited from the prestigious penthouse and pushed the glazed elevator button. He knew what floor his father was residing. After his quick trip, he walked towards a closed oak door. He pulled down on the bronze handle. He quietly entered.

Inside the elongated room Norman Osborn was managing phone calls. He tightly held the cordless receiver in one hand. His free hand was pressing buttons as his aged eyes noted the flashing lights for incoming calls. He was sitting in his executive chair but stood up when the volume of his voice increased. "What I want is for this to be done on time! If it's not, then we fall behind on the reassessing schedule, and the board won't be able to review it on the agreed upon date. Surely you can see how that will be an issue…."

"Hey, Dad," Harry greeted as he walked in. "I brought you some lunch."

The older man spotted who came in. He turned back to the phone. "I'll be calling in three hours. I want a sensible time sheet emailed to me before then."

He hung the phone. No more ringing came through the receiver. The buttons stopped flashing. His attentive eyes fell onto the clock on his monitor. Because of his urge to succeed, he often pushed himself through lunch. He glanced at the buoyant young adult. He refrained from barking any unpleasantness. He had promised to take care of himself after his misadventure as The Goblin. He wanted to be present for his son. He knew Harry delivering him food was a way to show he cared.

"Bring it here," Norman instructed.

Harry was glad he was no longer swatted away. Gleefully, he approached his father. He placed down the insulated bag on the conference table. He pulled out the glass container and handed it over. He then removed the forks and napkins.

Norman silently observed an absent logo on the bag and container. He was curious to know what his son packed him. He wasn't a picky eater, but he held high standards. He removed the clear lid. The overpowering aroma infected the room. Steam rose. Taking a fork, he stabbed what appeared to be a chicken and pasta salad. He guided the utensil to his mouth and bit down on it. His eyes widened.

"This is a delicious dish," he complimented. "Where did you order it from?"

"Actually, I made it," Harry replied.

"You made it?" Norman questioned. He was unaware of his son's talent. He proudly smiled, "Well, we can go ahead and toss away the take out menus at home."

The young adult grew embarrassed. He retorted, "No one keeps printed menus anymore."

Norman reached for a napkin and wiped his mouth. "I'll be here in the office evaluating spread sheets. What will you be doing this afternoon?"

He kept his tone light. He didn't ask for Harry's whereabouts to take charge. He only wanted to stay connected with his son and show his interest.

"Peter's coming over," the teen answered. "We're gonna be going over the course catalog for E.S.U."

Norman stopped his chewing. He grew surprised. "The what?"

"Yeah, the college you went to sent out the courses for online and in-person. We're gonna look and get an idea for the upcoming Freshmen class," Harry explained, his tone light and excited. His phone beeped. He glanced at his screen. "Looks like he's here. I better go let him in. See you later, Dad."

The father watched as his son hurriedly left. Alone in the spacious room, his eyes traveled to the freshly made food. He became glum.

"Is it that time already?"

"Wow!" Peter gasped in delight. "Look at all these classes!"

The two best friends sat in the living room of the Osborn penthouse. Their blue eyes glued themselves to the LED TV screen. The Empire State University website was set up to a full display of bright colors. They were reading through the newly released course catalog for the nearing semester. They both decided on becoming Science majors. Tuition at such a pristine institution would not come cheap. Peter planned on earning an academic scholarship. Harry knew he was set with his family's luxurious background. But he still aimed to prove himself by raising his grades.

"Look," Harry pointed. "There's the Freshmen orientation."

"Every high school in the state will be there," Peter remarked. "I wonder what the first day will be like. All I got so far are pamphlets."

((E.S.U. keeps records for any alumnus in the family. They knew about my parents, Richard and Mary Parker. The school's been sending over recruitment packets. There's so much to keep track of before graduation from Midtown High! At least I know I won't be alone with my best buds Harry, Flash, and Mary Jane by my side. I can always count on Aunt May, too.))

"They want us to see advisers before we can add any classes," Peter guessed. "Probably to see what courses we'll need to take and know what our future career plans will be."

Harry laughed. "That'll be a cinch. They only hafta look at my last name. I got most of my life figured out."

An Osborn seemed to have a clean path to follow. The Parker, on the other hand, had many doors for him.

Peter scrolled through the school's Biology and Chemistry department pages. He was impressed with the staffs' degrees, awards, and public studies. "Looks like we'll have Professor Miles Warren for our biochemistry courses."

"Already learning the professors' names?"

"Yeah, I'll be at E.S.U. awhile. I'll probably go to grad school. Get my Master's. Maybe even my Doctorate."

Harry raised an eyebrow. "More school? You really are a nerd."

"The world of science has already been rocked hard by Stark, Banner, and your dad. A Bachelor will only get me so far. It won't be so bad. It's only two more years of research and lab work. That'll build my credit." Peter then seriously asked, "You don't want to go?"

"No way! Once I'm done, I'm done!"

Peter laughed. "Well, hopefully the upside to my studies will let me meet up with new friends interested in my own line of work."

"Doing what, exactly?"

"Uh… I guess working with chemicals and taking in data. I've always had planned to use my science brain for good." The brunet shrugged. "I'll just prepare myself for the job of tomorrow. That's what going to a college is all about."

The duo became quiet. Their graduation date for Midtown High was approaching. Soon they will be living on their own, living by their own arrangements. The two boys knew their connection with each other had survived Spider-man, S.H.I.E.L.D., and villains. Adding hour-long lectures, tireless labs, and part-time jobs were other factors to their lives. Their reflections were interrupted when Norman entered.

"Hey, Mister Osborn," Peter greeted with a smile. Under Spider-man, he had seen the industrialist wear his own metal suit as Iron Patriot. For Peter, he liked seeing his friend's father as he was rather than the giant green beast he fought.

"Dad?" Harry questioned. He didn't share the positive address. He sensed something was off. "I didn't think you'd be back so soon."

"I re-arranged my calls," the man replied. He appeared to still be in work-mode, for his voice kept its authoritative tone. He looked to his guest. "Harry told me you two are reviewing the courses for E.S.U."

"Yep," Peter nodded. He saw no difference in attitude. He was accustomed to the older Osborn laboring nonstop. "The website recently posted what'll be available for the Fall. So far I've only gotten a grip of the campus with their virtual tour. And crossing over with my webs."

The auburn boy thought of an idea. "Me and Peter have been talking about E.S.U. Dad, you'll hafta give us a special outing of your alma mater. The whole campus has probably added a lot since you attended."

"Well, um, possibly," Norman responded. His mind drifted back to his studies. He recalled the grueling hours he would spend in the lab and library. He didn't venture into clubs or social gatherings. His hard work had been rewarded with Oscorp becoming a prominent name once again.

Peter seemed excited by the suggestion. "Yeah, that sounds great. Me and Harry will be going into Science. I can't wait to see the labs in person."

"You've already seen Oscorp and Stark Industries," Harry pointed out. "Do you think those labs will be any better? Even if it they do belong to a university?"

Embarrassed, the brunet rubbed the back of his head. "Guess my bookish leaning came out."

"It will be a new place," Harry reminded. "Most of them won't know about your wall-flower persona. You can hit the men's clothing department and pick out something less geeky."

"I believe the right style is casual," Peter corrected. "Nothing wrong with a little comfort."

His S.H.I.E.L.D. entrusted wrist communicator beeped. He looked at the screen. Standing up, he announced, "I gotta split. Gonna chat it up with Doc Connors. He was a teacher at E.S.U. before hanging out with S.H.I.E.L.D. I'm sure he can write a letter of recommendation for me and Flash."

"Flash's been a little passive about his future," Harry agreed. He shared his buddy's concern for the Midtown High athlete who lacked in the academic department. He came to his feet as well. "I bet he'll be more motivated to go if he's got someone backing his corner."

"And if all else fails, he can spring up a football scholarship."

The two boys' fists bumped. The guest then left.

"Well," Harry began as the father and son were left alone. He thought nothing more of his dad's presence. He could only assume it was to play a welcoming host. "I think I'll go take a shower. All that cooking and washing dishes brought up a sweat."

Norman saw his boy walking away. Now that it was only family, he decided to unleash his exposition. "Wait, Son."

Harry stopped. He turned around. "Yeah, Dad?"

"There's a reason I took off early. I want to talk to you."

The teen noted how serious his dad appeared. Yet it wasn't one filled with displeasure, like when it pertained to his deplorable grades. Norman seemed to hold a sort of disquiet in his eyes. This caused a concern to rise in Harry. "About what?"

"About your future… And your time at E.S.U."

Harry formed a notion about the upcoming lecture. "Dad, if this is about partying at fraternities or doing drugs, you know I won't be doing that junk. I might be interested in some clubs, or looking into a study abroad program, but that's because I want to expand my horizons. But I won't let those distract me from studying. Peter's gonna be there."

He then lightly laughed, "I'm sure his killjoy outlook will keep me in the right direction. I'll make you and Oscorp proud."

"Harry," Norman called. He continued to carry a serious tone. "This is more than what the campus has to offer on a social level. This is about your formal education and career choice."

He paused for a moment. There was no point dancing around his case. He needed to tell his concern. "I don't want you to focus only on Science as your option."

Harry grew surprised by his father's sudden sovereignty over his future. Such details were never mentioned before. He needed to understand their roots. "Huh? What are you talking about? You went to E.S.U. You have your diplomas in your office. Didn't you go into Chemistry?"

"Yes, I had my plate full with that and Business Administration. Enrollment is coming up. So you can see why I'm having this talk with you. If you have your eyes set on another school, I'd understand. Maybe you can go into professional cooking."

"Why would I want to do that? I only started watching cooking videos online. I thought I'd learn some basic dishes so I know what to cook when I'm on my own. Besides, our last name is already famous. I never thought about the barbecue sauce or salad dressing direction. I've only been looking at apartments close to E.S.U. Some good eats, yeah, but I'd still need to get a grip on the essentials to avoid going over budget. I know my allowance won't cover everything."

Norman struggled knowing his son would reside in a place closer to the campus, away from the penthouse. He was aware the teen needed to grow into a responsible adult. He knew he needed to be stern in his case. "I would like for you to attend E.S.U. I looked up the date for enrollment. Before that comes, I want you to review the other schools and pick at least three other majors you may want to consider."

Harry didn't understand why his father was speaking to him like he was one of his employees. He could only work with him to ensure the man wouldn't revert to his original attitude. He had to show his own understandings and willingness to compromise. "Dad, you've been pressuring me to get my grades in science up. And I have been. You've lectured me about the importance those classes will have for running Oscorp. I've gone to your board meetings and galas for the sake of the company. Now you're having me re-evaluate everything we've talked about. What's going on?"

Norman paused. He was aware of the high demand he brutally placed on his son. Not only for his academic skills, but his social graces. He had aimed to protect the image he had created for his company. Even when it meant the reputation over his only child's well-being. He knew of the path that long-awaited many of their ancestors. He only wanted to avoid such a dreadful path for his son. He inhaled deeply. Gazing directly at his son, he stated, "I don't want you to be at Oscorp."

"What?!" Harry gasped. He disbelieved what his father had proclaimed. He clenched a fist as he grew angry. He demanded an answer. "Why not?! I'm an Osborn!"

The father expected a strong reaction. He spotted blood rushing through his offspring. The carefree blue eyes turned sharp. He had often seen such rage in himself. He kept in mind the reason to hold this discussion. He sighed. "The Osborn family have built an empire. You know of the countless enemies searching to take us down. One of them even turned me into a Goblin. I was so fortunate that you didn't become one as well."

The son tried his best to listen. Though the two have gone past it, the ugly head of such a horrific beast came every now and then. Harry wanted to be sure his father never fell onto that path again. He softly asked, "What does that hafta do with me going to E.S.U.?"

Norman could see the young teen was willing to work with him. He tried not to gain sympathy from playing The Goblin card. He explained, "I don't want you to lock yourself in the office or the labs, like I did. Since you did get in to E.S.U., you should see what else they have to offer. You should be able to explore different paths and enjoy your time being young."

Harry struggled to listen. He couldn't believe his father's answer. Something inside of him cast doubt. Attending and completing a different study could be the reason he would be deemed unfit to be in the main chair of a million dollar corporation. The same chair could only be sat in by one person. He spun around.

"You expect me to fall for that answer?" he barked. "Just admit it! You don't trust Oscorp to be in anyone's hands but your own!"

Norman didn't predict his son would delegate him as the villain. He had to show his well-meaning side. He carefully argued back, "Harry, no! This has nothing to do with my employment. This is about you."

"Then you don't want me to be in charge! You don't trust me! You think I'll bring down Oscorp again! That everything you worked for had gone to waste!"

Norman grew dumbfounded. He never once held such negative opinions towards his son. He did toil to restore and keep the company as a prominent name. He could never imagine it crumbling again. And he still could not force such an exigent position onto his only child.

Harry glared at his father. He despised the silence coming from him. With nothing left to discuss, he stormed out of the room.

The auburn boy ventured out onto the roof of Oscorp. Stomping his feet, he approached the edge. He folded his arms over the ledge. His blue eyes angrily stared down at the streets below. He barely saw from his extensive height the congestion of vehicles occupying the streets. The winds gently brushed his hair full of glitzy product. He had grown accustomed to living in such altitude. The lengthy buildings were standard in New York City. His home rested within a prestigious company.

Oscorp was a name recognized in the world of business and technology. Harry understood what his father had gone through. The entrepreneur spent a number of hours sweating in his lab, meeting with sharks disguised as businessmen, and handling public mishaps. Many of the man's choices revolved around dropping promised time with his son. He was shocked to have learned of Norman's plan to copy Spider-man's powers and replicate them for his own twisted army to sell. He also knew of the trouble the older Osborn placed into overhauling Oscorp. The difficulty started with the corporation's previous owner. Harry knew his father and his own grandpa held a less than picture perfect rapport with each other. The behavior went down like a bad stock in the stock market.

Harry reviewed Norman's words. He pondered his future. He always pictured himself at the top, much like his father. He would wear the blue cap and gown, and his own diploma would be hanging in his own office. And perhaps one day he would be waiting for someone special to meet with him at the altar. Knowing the burdens and strains it came with being an Osborn, he was aware of the arduous tasks he would shuffle with. He wondered how he would be with a son of his own.

His train of thought became interrupted when a shadow swung past him. He turned around. He spotted the hero dressed in red and blue. He didn't expect to see the wall-crawler back at the building so soon. "Any word from Connors?"

"He's got a project going on," the teen in tights replied. "He promised to meet up with Spider-man and Agent Venom later. If Iron Patriot allows it, I'm sure Patrioteer could go on that expedition, too."

The auburn scowled. "Why? Stormin' Norman doesn't trust his son."

Spider-man immediately sensed the rising anger. He questioned the intermission. "I was gone for only a moment. What happened?"

"Dad doesn't want me to run Oscorp," Harry bitterly answered.

"You mean, like, not paying your dues at E.S.U.? He seemed pretty happy when you told him you got in."

Harry recalled the elation the father and son shared when the acceptance package arrive. He questioned the culprit that suddenly changed Norman's mind. He replied, "I can still go. He wants me to explore different majors before enrollment. You and me both spent so much time looking at E.S.U.'s science department, what else am I supposed to pick? I'm an Osborn. I was getting ready to run the family company. What's an Osborn if he doesn't have Oscorp?"

Spider-man became quiet. He was aware of the deep honor the auburn carried in his linage. Peter had always seen his best bud outside his surname. He knew the father and son were still trying to re-connect with each other. The job in front of him belonged to someone who didn't fight superpower villains. The auburn teen needed a friend. Spider-man swapped around his webbed bag. He pulled out his normal clothes. He placed on his regular shirt, jacket, and jeans.

Harry glared down at the streets below him. He couldn't imagine anything else as a career. He wasn't about to permit the past to take hold of his future. But his future was his own decision. He said aloud to his friend, "I told you how Oscorp started, right?"

The teen paused his dressing. He was surprised to have been asked a question. He decided to play along. "With your great-grandpa?"

"Great-great-grandpa. Alton Osborn. He was dubbed the 'Robber Baron' by his enemies. The ongoing Osborn generations kept up the work and found innovative technologies. My family made an empire and gained a fortune. At least, until my grandpa Ambrose became in charged. He was the one who lost everything with his childishness and inability to keep sober. Dad did everything he could to build Oscorp to the way it is today."

The brunet listened as he tied the dingy laces on his scuffed up sneakers. "Wow, you're not only looking to run Oscorp. You're also the family's historian."

"I've heard these stories dozens of times."

"At least you have a clear version to go by."

Harry looked over his shoulder. He spotted the brunet that became his best friend. He knew the Parker family held their own dark secrets. He assured, "No need to be glum, Pete. You finally got the real scoop about your parents. Them being C.I.A. agents and now their son is Spider-man? That's incredible."

Peter appreciated the salute. Those closest to him had found out his dual identity. He could also finally share the true whereabouts of his parents. There were no more mysteries in the Parker household. Because he had support for his lives, he decided to return the favor. "OK, so your dad is asking you to do something else as a living. Just think for a second: What else would you like to do?"

The auburn boy contemplated. Should he had the freedom, he pondered what he could accomplish. His mind returned to the same place. "Honestly? Run Oscorp."

Peter understood he received a conscientious answer. When an Osborn made up his mind, he sprinted for his goal. Of course, the Parker shared that tenacious trait.

"You're pretty clear about what you want to do," he complimented. "I only have an idea for a major and what I'd like to do."

His eyes fell down towards his red and blue suit. He could never place it in a box and abandon it in a forgotten attic. The stretchy threads were a part of him as much as his giant brain was. He knew what the consequences meant. He muttered, "I'll need something with flexible hours if I'm to still wear this costume. I'll definitely be stuck as an intern going on the coffee runs."

The young Osborn figured what was running through his best friend's mind. He gave his assurance, "Every company has its initiation."

"Will they be worth it in the end?" the brainy boy asked. "All that work just for a letter of recommendation? Getting paid in experience and exposure? You and your dad had your disagreements. But you both had worked for something big. Sometimes I wish I had something clean cut."

The auburn looked at his pal. He noted the uncertain, anxious eyes. The two would share the same road for higher education. After that, their paths would split. The future, no matter how well-planned, held unknown factors. Hero or not, everyone needs a helping hand from time to time.

"Pete, you have the advantage of opening other doors. You get to peek what's inside and decide for yourself what you wanna do. Don't let the opportunity go to waste. You and me, we jut got different things to consider. I never saw taking control of Oscorp as a bad thing. Yeah, my path's pretty clear, but that doesn't mean I won't take advantage of what that path has to offer. Dad warned me about spending too much time in the classroom. And sure, there's other things I want to explore and enjoy—clubs, events, fraternities. I want to use those four years to try new things. You know, grow as a person. Just not for career options."

Peter blinked. He grew amazed. "You really thought this through."

"I was born an Osborn. My dad spent his life rebuilding Oscorp. He's always telling me how one day it'll be mine. Cheesy as that sounds, I want to be ready for that day."

The brunet was appreciative of the affirmation. He heard his buddy. He believed something else underlined that response. He was not interested in prodding or gossiping. He only wanted to help a friend out.

"Is it that you want to be ready for Oscorp?" he challenged. "Or you want to make your dad proud?"

Harry examined the question. Everything he stated was true. Perhaps there was another reason. He sighed. "Maybe it's one more than the other."

"Your dad gave you the option to study something else. Usually those TV dramas have it the other way around, you know, where the parents want their kids to do one job, but the kids want to do something else. And then the after-school lesson is about following your passions. Now that's cheesy. Your dad sounds like he's giving you his support. To let you go out and explore something for you."

The auburn tried to show his pal his understandings. He had reason to deliver his doubt. "Yeah, with something that isn't as precious as Stormin' Norman's company. I know why he's selective when it comes to board meetings. I've always thought he kept the main chair at Oscorp for me. After everything we've been through—Venom, Goblin, Ock, S.H.I.E.L.D., heroes… How is it he doesn't trust me?"

"I'm not getting it's a lack of trust," Peter countered. "It sounded more like a cautionary tale. Your dad sounds like he's really looking after you. Any parent would."

Harry wrestled to control his frustrations. He knew the brunet wasn't one to pick sides. The web-head showed that strength as he fought against The Goblin. He asked, "Then why can't he support me with my choices? Like Aunt May does for you?"

Peter became quiet. He knew his aunt would give her approval of him no matter what path he took. She was pleased with him for taking his academics seriously even when faced with bullying. She was an advocate of him completing his greater education even if it meant more school. In the end, both teens wanted their remaining families to be proud of them.

The young Osborn picked up the lull in conversation. "I know Dad can be headstrong. I'm not looking to kick him out of my life once I hit eighteen. I still want his advice. Just not his control."

He waved his hand dismissively. "Besides, I won't be taking immediate control once I get that diploma. I get the feeling Dad's gonna stay as the head for as long as he can. That's just how he is."

"He'll fight his way to the end," the brunet added.

The two chuckled.

Peter believed he had uncovered all he could. He could now only give his advice. "I let Aunt May know I appreciate her support. Maybe you should let your dad know that?"

"Hmmm…" the wealthy teen mulled. "Yeah, maybe I haven't been letting him in. We've been able to talk about small things. And I'm glad we're able to. I guess now we gotta tackle the big stuff."

"At least you'll be doing it together. And don't forget: He put an end to The Goblin."

Harry looked away as he contemplated the last line. "Yes, if the Osborns got over The Goblin, then we can overcome anything."

Norman uneasily waited inside. The argument he held against his son repeated in his mind. They had often engaged in arguments prior to his conversion. He was flabbergasted to learn that Harry thought he didn't trust him. Never did he intend to insult Harry.

His eyes fell onto the TV screen. It still displayed the webpage for Empire State University. After everything the older Osborn experienced in his life, his quest to assist Harry into finding a new career path was genuine. He made sure to shift his attitude from what he had displayed in the past. He enacted his best to be present for his son—he had permitted Harry to carry on his own hobbies and enforced a reasonable curfew. He never intended on controlling his boy all his life. He had learned those consequences the hard way; he never had a good relationship with his father. He urged himself to break away from such unpleasantness, to prevent the past from repeating in the future. He only wanted what was best.

The two boys entered the penthouse. Norman's thought became interrupted. He watched as the auburn was escorted by the brainy brunet. Norman suspected Harry relayed to Peter of the family's verbal altercation. He couldn't blame his son, for Harry and Peter carried a good bond. They had started off as classmates but truly forged a connection despite everything that happened to them. Seeing his boy had time to cool down, he returned his focus on him.

"Harry," Norman called. "About our discussion…"

"I thought about what you said," Harry began. His eyes briefly met his friend's. He placed on a confident smile. Facing his dad, he announced, "Looking at what else E.S.U. has to offer, I've decided on becoming a painter."

"What?!" Norman yelled.

Peter became just as stunned with the unusual option. Their talk didn't review alternatives to a Science major. But he quickly caught the ploy. He fought to contain his laughter.

"I got it all figured out," Harry continued in a pompous manner. "I can spend four years in the studios splattering paint across the canvas. I'll then travel to Europe. Learn the styles great artists created even if they themselves were rejected from art school. I can adapt to clay work and make pottery. Or welding. Dad, you were right about keeping my options open. Who needs this science junk, anyway?"

The brunet dropped his smile. That last line, though an act, cut him deep. "Hey, now."

Norman stood in place as his mind strained to process what was announced. He struggled to show his support. He did encourage Harry to select another path. He also knew his son possessed lazy tendencies. He cleared his throat. "You'll need a portfolio. In a binder or website. They'll want to see your skills."

"Then I better get started on one," the auburn retorted. "I can probably churn out three or four masterpieces before the deadline. What time does the art supplies store close? I should start becoming familiar with their tools."

He began his way out. His father had held secrets in the past. The son knew just enough to enact his scheme. As he headed towards the door, he quietly counted, "Three… Two… One!"

"Son, wait," Norman called. "Getting into those Fine Art program, or any other major, require more than just scoring high on your S.A.T. Is this really what you want? "

Harry stopped and turned around. "Should I not? Should I be considering something else?"

"It's just… learning the Arts… Any major, you must consider what they offer in the stretch of long-term careers. I thought about that myself when I was in school."

The auburn teen paused his act. His face turned to one of surprise. "You did?"

"I began preparing for Oscorp when I was a child. I was forced to be groomed for a high standard. With the company nearly bankrupt, I was free. I could do what I wanted to do. I thought about choosing something different. I thought about my own passions. Yes, knowing the results of hard work and understanding the business would be a lucrative choice. But I felt at home in a lab."

The two boys became amazed with what they heard. Perhaps had Norman selected a different path there was a chance there would be no Oscorp. The Osborn name may not hold such significance as it does now. And without an Oscorp, there could be no Spider-man.

Harry didn't know that particular story about his father. He did want to form a closer bond with him, which meant listening to childhood stories. He had questions. For now, he needed to stick to his plan. He tried his point. "Maybe you were right. Maybe Oscorp shouldn't be my home."

The older Osborn seemed hurt by that statement. He had strained himself to reassemble what he thought was rightfully his. He became successful in having the name branded. Before falling trap to The Goblin, he wanted his son to work hard to become the company's next owner. He wanted to respect his boy's wishes. Above all he wanted to stay connected with his son.

"Harry, please," Norman implored, "that's why I'm talking to you about it now. I want to find a solution to this with you."

The auburn teen heard his father. The older Osborn wasn't looking to keep his reign over his son. Harry turned to his best friend. It was time to unravel the farce.

"Dad, I have thought about it, majoring in Science," the boy confessed. "It wasn't a light decision. I know I'm gonna struggle when it comes to the labs. I know the hours I'm gonna need to put in to keep up with the lectures. It's tough enough at Midtown High. And that's only high school."

"You've gotten better," Peter tried to help. As his tutor, he was aware of the young Osborn's academic plight.

Harry nodded at his buddy. He then went on, "A respected place like E.S.U. will have a higher standard. You won't be able to pull as many strings since most of the professors who taught you are no longer there."

"Thank goodness for that." Norman shook his head. He couldn't imagine his son with the likes of his old professor-turned-partner-turned-traitor Mendel Stromm. The enemies looking to bring down the Osborns was a real reason he wanted to protect his son.

Harry kept a firm stance. "But this is something I'll hafta do. I want to be head of Oscorp one day. I am an Osborn."

Norman became quiet. He spotted his son's determination. Perhaps his boy was more prepared than he gave credit for. A small smile came over his face as he grew prideful. "You've made your points. I need to return to my office. I know you and Peter have your own graduation plans to follow through. We'll talk more after dinner."

He left to allow the two friends to continue their time together.

Peter looked at Harry. He was proud of his buddy for standing up for himself. After their discussion, he knew his pal made the decision both with his mind and his heart. He was also glad to see the father and son, though struggling, still getting along. "Good thing your dad is starting to see what'll be better for you."

"Is that really what you were concerned with?" Harry playfully asked as he crossed his arms. The pride within him still flowed. He was grateful to have a good friend he could discuss important issues with. He hoped the two could continue their good bond post high school.

"Well, you and I will be sharing an apartment closer to campus," Peter reminded. "At least now I don't hafta scramble to land a new living arrangement. Just gotta find something that'll pay the bills."

"I would've wished you luck in finding a refrigerator box had I changed my mind," Harry laughed. "That would've had outrageous rents. All you need to be concerned about is splitting the chores fairly. Don't think you can get out of washing dishes or vacuuming the carpets just because you had to be out in your tights."

"I know, I know. I told you I'm working on my time management skills. At least at E.S.U. I can easily slip in and out of classes. Work is gonna be something else. Maybe I can find something on campus."

"No need to worry about cash, Pete. You already have a part-time job."

"As Spider-man? Not exactly a profitable one, Harr. Not even under S.H.I.E.L.D."

"I'm still gonna need a tutor. For the science lectures and any of the other major classes. The grad students at the center will cost triple what you do."

The brunet rolled his eyes. "Way to keep your mind on number crunching."

The auburn smirked, "Number crunching and innovated technology are how Oscorp floats above the rest."

Peter easily spotted the high esteem the young Osborn carried for his future. Holding confidence of his own, he smiled, "Then let's make sure we get the same class and lab times to be on the same page."

"We'll hafta let Flash know, too, if he decides to go. Even undeclared majors have core classes to complete."

"He can always count on that football scholarship. It's more in his reach than your bogus idea. You really think you could've made it as a painter? Couldn't you have chosen something more realistic? Like a ballerina?"

"I knew what Dad was plotting. But you don't go to charity nights that support the arts without learning a name or two. I spent plenty of time being in the same room as those flashy gallery owners. They give off enough hot air to fill a zeppelin."

"So in the end, it's all about connections?"

Harry looked at his pal. The brunet was an honest guy. He gave the sincerest advice he could, "You could always try getting to know your teachers. Get a good reputation with them and your plans on what you bring to the table. Just don't be the teacher's pet the way you were at Midtown High. "

"I can always use the Osborn name for references, too, right?"

"Only if your future bosses don't ask where you disappear to. I won't hold my tongue back to say you have bathroom emergencies. Maybe you could make some dough in the meantime taking pictures."

"Aunt May and Uncle Ben do have some nice cameras in their attic. They'd hafta be a worthy subject. Like New York's favorite wall-crawler."

"Better than the sleazy paparazzi. I'm sure Spider-man wouldn't mind having cameras on him."

"So long as his images are next to the celebrities."

Harry shook his head and laughed, "You're dreaming, Mister Parker."

Peter grinned, "Hey, I can dream because my options are open, Mister Osborn."

The two gazed out the large window. They were in the city many dreamed of residing. The young Osborn was looking to continue adding praise to his father's company. The young Parker aimed to use his bright mind for a good cause. One had a destine path, and the other had open doors. But both will continue their roads to be side by side.

End Destine Paths and Open Doors

Empire State University, see Amazing Spider-Man vol. 1 #1, 1963.

Richard Parker and Mary Parker-Fritzpatrick, see Amazing Spider-Man Annual #5, 1968.

Miles Warren/The Jackal, see Amazing Spider-Man vol. 1 #31, 1965. As The Jackal, see Amazing Spider-Man vol. 1 #129, 1974.

Mendel Stromm/Gaunt/Robot Master, see Amazing Spider-Man vol. 1 #37, 1966. As Gaunt, see Amazing Spider-Man vol. 1 #411, 1996. As Robot Master, see Civil War II: Amazing Spider-Man #3, 2016. For appearance of death, see Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 5 #5, 2018.

Alton Osborn, see Spider-Man: Revenge of The Green Goblin #2, 2000.

Amberson "Ambrose" Osborn, see The Spectacular Spider-Man Annual #14, 1994.

Author's notes: I was wrong about Kindred. For the Amazing comics storyline, I lacked vital information regarding Centipede Crawler, like that he is a man and holds resentment towards Peter/Spidey. All I knew was that Kindred has a connection to Norman/Green Goblin. From that idea, I thought it would've been a perfect opportunity to say whether or not Emily/Emma is really Norman's wife or if she's just a clone. But as Nick Spencer, the writer of this arc, is saying: It's not about the who; it's about the how and why.