Chapter 2: Peter and Kitty's Day Out
Bayville Park
"Hey KitKat, what's up," Peter Parker also known as the Ultimate Spider-Man asked smiling at the girl on the ground.
Soon the shock passed and was replaced by happiness, "PETER," Kitty said as she got up, ran to the boy, and tackled him into a hug.
Peter laughed as he returned the hug, he was glad to see Kitty again.
"I can't believe it, what are you doing here," Kitty asked making Peter open his mouth to answer but he was interrupted by Kitty
"Wait, how did you get here," Kitty asked again making Peter trying to answer but was interrupted.
"Does anyone know you're here," Kitty asked making Peter once again try to answer.
"Is everything ok," Kitty asked, wondering why her best friend was in Bayville, he's never came to Bayville before, it was always her visiting him in New York. Many questions and worries were running through her mind. She was about to ask another question, but Peter interrupted her.
"KITTY," Peter said placing his hands on Kitty's shoulder's, he smiled at her, "I'm fine, everything is fine," Peter said making Kitty relax as he can feel the tension leaving her shoulders. "I got here by car, Aunt May knows I'm here, and I came here because."
"Because" Kitty asked looking at Peter expectantly.
"Because I wanted to see you," Peter said
Kitty smiled at hearing this, it has been a long time since she and Peter have seen each other. It had to have been about two months ago, before Apocalypse. That was a nice day. When she and Peter saw each other, that was nice. Apocalypse, that sucked big time. "It has been a while hasn't it, sorry I haven't visited much," Kitty said apologetically
Peter shrugged, "It's not your fault, you have a lot to do. I get it, trust me, what you should apologize for is making it so hard to find you," Peter said
"Really," Kitty said smiling.
Peter nodded, "I had to look all around town," he said
"Did you like try the institute," Kitty asked
"Yes, and I ran into Logan, and let me tell you, the guy was grouchy today, said if I made one joke, he'd gut me. I had to deal with a grouchy Logan, that's how far I went for you," Peter said
"Oh, my knight in arachnid armor, dealing with the deadly Wolverine just to see me," Kitty joked pretending to fawn over him.
"Anything for my fair maiden," Peter said making Kitty blush at being called his maiden. "Anyway, what do you say we get out of here and get something to eat?"
"Do you even know where any of the restaurants are," Kitty questions raising an eyebrow.
"Nope, that's why I'll be following your lead on this. I'm trusting you with my stomach," Peter said
Kitty giggled at the joke, "Well don't worry, I'll make sure no one poisons you," she said
Peter smirked, "Well lead the way Miss Pryde," he said
Kitty smiled, grabbed Peter's hand and then led him away from the park.
Somewhere in Bayville
Peter and Kitty are walking around Bayville with Kitty trying to find a good place for them to eat. "Hm, maybe," Kitty said having an idea, "No." she then turned to the left and saw a restaurant, "Oh, we could. Never mind," Kitty said thinking better of it and continued to look.
Peter just watches Kitty's facial features, how she scrunches up her nose when she's thinking, wondering if it really is a good place for them to eat, 'She really is adorable when she's contemplating,' Peter thought as he smiles at her.
Kitty's face suddenly lights up, "I got it," Kitty said getting Peter's attention.
"Really," Peter asked
"Yep, I know where we're going to go," Kitty said smiling.
"Where," Peter asks
Kitty smirked, "Follow me Mr. Parker," she said as she started walking with Peter keeping pace.
The two walked for another ten minutes until finally they arrived at their destination. In front of them was a brick building that had two large windows showing the inside, it had a yellow sign with red letters saying Cellini's Pizzeria, there are double oak doors, next to them is a sign that says, "NEW DEEP-DISH PIZZA FOR $8.99".
"Cellini's Pizzeria," Peter said in surprise, "I didn't know that there was one down here."
"Yup, I found this place not too long ago, haven't been in there yet but you know I figure now would be a good time. After all it is our place, right," Kitty said as she looked at Peter.
"Right, it is," Peter said making a huge smile grow on Kitty's face.
"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go in," Kitty said, with that the two entered the restaurant.
Cellini's Pizzeria
Peter and Kitty were sitting down at a table with an open pizza box between them with six slices of pizza, half pepperoni, and half cheese. The two friends were having a serious debate about something of the utmost importance to them.
"Star Trek is more realistic than Star Wars is," Peter said as he took a bite of his pepperoni pizza much to Kitty's chargin.
"In what world is Star Trek more realistic," Kitty said moving the hand that held a slice of cheese pizza in exasperation.
"In every world and let me tell you why, because the Force is ridiculous," Peter said
"The Force is not ridiculous, it can be real," Kitty defended
"Pfft, yeah right so there is actually a place that teaches people how to move and manipulate thing with their mind," Peter said
"Well maybe there is," Kitty said receiving a 'Not Likely' look from Peter, "Star Wars is based in the future which means that humans as well as other species have had time to evolve. Now think about this, force sensitives are mutants. Think about it the midichlorian count is like having an x-gene."
Peter rolled his eyes, "Yeah and people are gonna start carrying lasers and use them as swords. You know once you activate a laser it just continues on the direction it's pointed at until something gets in its way," he said
"Please. All it takes is the right equations to calculate the length that the saber needs to be, use the data to design and build the part and we'll have a lightsaber in a matter of years or months if Tony Stark or Reed Richards decides to give it a try. In fact, I'm surprised that you never gave it a try, unless…gasp…you're not smart enough," Kitty said getting an insulted look from Peter.
"Not smart enough, not smart enough," Peter said, "I'll have you know Miss Pryde, that the reason why I never attempted to make a lightsaber is because I find it a complete waste of time to build an oversized laser that you have to hang over your pants for transport when we already have miniature lasers that we can put in our pockets."
"Peter, you don't need to justify yourself to me, if you're not as smart as you think you are just admit it, I won't judge you," Kitty mocks with a teasing smile.
"I know I'm smarter that you," Peter threw out getting a 'oh no you didn't' look from Kitty.
"Excuse me. What did you just say? I don't think I heard you right," Kitty said
Peter grinned, "I think you heard me fine but if you want me to repeat it I will. I am smarter than you," he said
"Oh really, you think so," Kitty said
"Oh, I know so. Remember that online IQ test? When we took it, my points were way ahead of yours," Peter said smugly
Kitty scowled, "Not all of us are genius's you know," she said
"Whatever you say Kitty," Peter said sarcastically
"Hm, I may not be a genius but I'm smart in my own way. Ways that you will never understand an example is fashion. I'm way smarter than you when it comes to that, if it weren't for me Peter you would be wearing those horrid sweater vests," Kitty said
"Hey! That's a low blow," Peter said making Kitty giggle, "Laugh it up miss Pryde but last time I checked fashion did nothing for the fact that you got a 3.4 instead of your average 3.6," Peter said
"That .2% was because of my history project which I had to turn in late because of an X-Men mission I was on, and my teacher hates me for some reason. She never took points off of Rogue or Kurt," Kitty said
Peter couldn't help but smile in amusement, "Who knows maybe she's jealous," he said
"Jealous? Of what," Kitty ask curiously
"Well let's see. Maybe she's jealous of the fact that you're smart, kind, funny, generous, easy to get along with, and insanely beautiful," Peter said listing off Kitty's qualities making said girl blush a deep red.
"B-beautiful, you think I'm beautiful," Kitty asks shyly
"Cute, pretty, adorable, beautiful, gorgeous, all of them describe you yet every single one of them I believe is an understatement with how amazing you look," Peter complimented blushing as he talked.
Kitty's face was completely red putting Peter's Spider-Man suit to shame. There have only been a few times where Peter has complimented her looks and they were by accident yet here he was telling her how amazing she looks willingly, and it was making her heart soar, "Th-thanks Peter," she said
Peter smiled and placed his hand on top of Kitty's making her stomach do flips unknown to her Peter's was doing the same, "No need to thank me Kitty, I'm just telling the truth," he said making Kitty smile widely. "So, how has everything been with you Kitty, since the last time we spoke?"
"Pretty good, the institute is almost rebuilt," Kitty said
"Really? That's great," Peter said
"Yup, it's amazing how fast construction has been, I mean it was just months ago that the mansion was a pile of rubble, but now it's near completion, I mean it would have been complete earlier but you know there was a lot of stuff going on that and we simply didn't have the time to focus on it. Not to mention that the stuff that did need finished weren't all that important. But now that we do have the time we were finally able to refocus on the construction and like I said we are near completion, I mean we would be if the professor hadn't decided to take the opportunity to expand/improve the mansion," Kitty said
"Really, he's doing that," Peter asked
Kitty nodded, "Yeah, he wants to make it bigger to accommodate more students. We've been getting some more recently. He's adding a wing, downside it means more annoying construction. But you know, I guess it isn't so bad, I mean at least we're not living in the bunks anymore," Kitty said
"That's great," Peter said smiling.
"Yeah, and when the new wing plus the other improvements are finished, I'll be able to get my own room again," Kitty said gleefully
Peter laughed, "And that's what's important right, having your own room, let's forget all of the defense systems and training tech that could be upgraded," he said
"Hey, I see this as an opportunity to upgrade our tech and we are, especially the danger room, but we can upgrade that anytime. I had to start bunking with Rogue again because of the additions to the mansion. I'm looking forward to having my own bedroom again," Kitty said
"And that takes precedent," Peter said
"But of course," Kitty said giggling.
Peter laughed, it was always so easy to talk to Kitty, they always had something to talk about starting from the most serious issues to the silliest of things. Yep, Peter enjoys spending time with her, he only wishes that he could have seen her more often.
Kitty was smiling as Peter laughed, he had such an adorable laugh, she really missed him. Peter is her best friend. They've been friends since they were little kids. They've always had so much fun together, goofing around, listening to music, having conversations about anything really, they would see a poster of a band and the next thing they know they are spending an hour talking about it (longer if they weren't careful). They always found something to do and even when they're not doing anything they still are having a good time. Kitty has always been more comfortable with Peter than she has with other people. He was always that one person she could go to and talk to without fear of judgment. They have talked about so many things over the years, stood by each other's sides, just like best friends would do or maybe two people who are more.
"So, if the danger room is being upgraded, how are you guys training," Peter asked
"Oh, well Logan decided to try and go old school by making his own obstacles and traps for us," Kitty said
Peter pauses at that, "I feel so so sorry for you," he said
"Glad someone does. I swear he created that obstacle course with nothing but his resentment, anger, and-," Kitty said
"Borderline murderous tendencies," Peter finished
"No," Kitty defended, "No," she then said weakly. "Maybe." A smile was growing on Peter's face, "SHUT UP," Kitty said laughing causing Peter to laugh, "It's not funny, he's even taken advantage of it by taking us out at night and hunting us. His excuse is that there may come a time when we're being tracked, and we need to learn how to lose our pursuers. I feel like I'm in some kind of scary movie and the psycho is gonna get me first."
"Hm, well the psycho always goes for the beautiful girl first. Gives the other girls screen time," Peter said making Kitty blush at the compliment that he just gave her. That was another compliment that he just gave her and he seems very aware of it as well. Could Peter be flirting with her?
Kitty then smirked, "Well, it's too bad you weren't there. Everyone knows that it's the brave and handsome hero that saves everyone from the psycho," she said flirtatiously making Peter blush a little.
Peter then composed himself, "Well then it looks like I'm saving the beautiful girl first," he said making Kitty blush again at being called beautiful.
"A-anyway, back to Logan's training, it's," Kitty said
"Psychotic," Peter said
"Oh, big time," Kitty admitted as she took another slice of pizza out of the box, "Sometimes, Logan really confuses me, first he's this guy who in his own way cares about us, will protect us, and can actually give some good advice, kind of like a father, I guess. But then he turns around and becomes this angry, rage filled, psychotic man who would enjoy nothing more than to gut us alive in a very slow manner. Some of us actually wonder if making our training exercises is his way of releasing his anger, we also wonder if that's true than does the professor know, and if he does then…what is wrong with him?"
"Didn't you say that the danger room had safety protocols to keep anyone from dying," Peter said
"Yes, but with him making his own traps with no supervision from any other teacher. That's a whole new horror movie," Kitty said
"Well, I can sympathize," Peter said
"Oh really, you've been beaten, fallen in ditches, nearly drowned, and almost speared," Kitty asked
"You've never been trained by Black Widow. Every one of her training exercises is pretty much a death trap," Peter said as he took out another slice of pizza and started eating it.
"Really? A death trap," Kitty said skeptically
"Yup, I actually think she's deactivated some of the safety protocols on some of the exercises, and I think she's specifically targeted me on some of those training exercises," Peter said
"Well, if you believe she has specifically targeted you. You only have one question to ask," Kitty said
"And that is," Peter asks curiously
"What'd you do," Kitty said
"What'd I do," Peter repeats
Kitty nods, "What'd you do or what did you say," she said
"Why should I ask that," Peter asked
"Peter, sometimes your jokes can really annoy some people, specifically those of higher authority. Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if you made some joke or comment to Black Widow that annoyed her so much, she'd want to take you down a peg," Kitty explained
"Heh, do you find my jokes annoying," Peter asked
Kitty gave Peter a look, "Really? Did my laughing earlier sound fake to you," she said as she ate her last slice of pizza. Kitty then stood up along with Peter who finished his slice.
Outside
The door opens and out came Peter and Kitty, "Hey you happen to be a very good actress when you want to be. I remember you acting like you were sick just so I would take care of you," Peter said
"Peter that wasn't me being a good actress, that was you just being extremely gullible," Kitty replied
"Gullible, ouch," Peter said making Kitty giggle.
"So, how are things going on with that team of yours," Kitty asked, wondering about the first team that Peter led that consists of himself, Iron Fist, Power Man, White Tiger, and Nova.
"It's going good, I have to admit out of everyone that I work with, I'm glad I work with them the most. Don't tell them I said that, or they'll never let me live it down," Peter said
Kitty laughed, "Do you guys even have a name yet," she asked
"No, but we are discussing it, Nova offered the Defenders," Peter said
"The Defenders, really? That's the best he could come up with. That has to be one of the lamest names ever," Kitty said with a deadpan look.
"Don't say that to him or he'll throw a fit," Peter said with a smirk.
"You know what, I never got to meet your team," Kitty said as they crossed the street.
"Well, to be fair I never got to meet the X-Men, well except for Wolverine, but he doesn't count considering when we met, it was a more we ran into each other kind of thing. Not really the most pleasant meeting," Peter said as an image of Wolverine trying to slash him with his claw appeared in his head.
Kitty smiled, "I would have loved to see that," she said
"No, you wouldn't," Peter said
"You and Logan meeting for the first time, of course I would," Kitty said
"Yeah right," Peter said
"Ok smart guy, why wouldn't I," Kitty said raising an eyebrow at Peter.
"Because you are a worry wart Kitty," Peter said
"I am not," Kitty defended crossing her arms.
"Kitty if I were to tell you that Logan slashed me on the chest you would flip out," Peter said
"WAIT! WHAT?! DID HE," Kitty said immensely worried now as she looked at Peter with wide eyes, proving her friend's point.
"Kitty quiet down," Peter said as he looked around and saw that people turned to them when Kitty yelled, "People are looking."
But Kitty wasn't listening, "Did he do that," Kitty said as she stopped in front of Peter looking as him. "Well."
"I mean yeah, but it wasn't deep, it healed within the hour," Peter said
"I can't believe it. How could he do that? Why would he do that," Kitty said
"Well, we were going after the same guy. Sabretooth was his name. The guy had caused some trouble in the market gave me quite a fight. He tried to get away but when I cornered him, Logan shows up ready for a fight. We both tried fighting Sabretooth but got in each other's way, and Sabretooth got away. Logan blamed me for letting him get away and I said that I had him until Logan arrived. We had a whole argument about this, and I guess I pissed off Logan enough for him to attack me," Peter said
"So, he attacked you because he was angry. Unbelievable, I swear I am gonna have words with him when I get back to the institute," Kitty said
"Kitty, that was years ago. Months before you even joined the X-Men. I've gotten over it and so had Logan," Peter said
"Doesn't matter, he shouldn't have let his anger get the better of him," Kitty said
Peter places his hand on Kitty's shoulder, "Let's forget about that and have some fun," he said
Kitty took a deep breath and released it, "Fine. There's a bowling alley nearby but now that I think of it, we probably shouldn't go there," she said
"Why? Is it a dump," Peter asked
"No, it's very nice. The reason why I think we shouldn't go there is because I'll humiliate you in the lanes," Kitty said smirking at Peter.
"Is that a challenge Miss Pryde," Peter said
"Ohh nooo, it's not a challenge Mr. Parker," Kitty said sensually as she got closer to Peter until she can get on her toes and lean into his ear making Peter blush at how close she was, "It's a promise," she whispers, when she leans back down Kitty sees the blush, the mutant girl gives a smile and winks at the mutate boy. Kitty then turns around and walks away, "Let's go Peter, the sooner we get there, the sooner I cream you."
"Uh, sure," Peter said unable to say anything else due to his flustered state at Kitty's action, he then follows after Kitty.
Bowling Alley
It didn't take the two long to arrive at the bowling alley. After getting their bowling shoes and choosing a lane, Peter and Kitty found themselves in a competition, one of which that Kitty was winning, and she was enjoying it.
A pink bowling ball is shown rolling in the middle of the lane and hits the pins knocking all of them down. On the screen, it shows a red X signifying a strike, "STRIKE," Kitty said much to Peter's annoyance, "That's another one for me," Kitty said as she turned to Peter with a gloating smile.
Peter narrowed his eyes, it was on now, "Just you wait I'm still warming up," he said
"Sure, you are," Kitty said as she sits on one of the seats next to Peter.
"Just watch and learn Pryde," Peter said as he got up, took a blue bowling ball and headed to his lane. Once there, Peter looked at the pins in front of him.
At the end of the lane were two pins on the far left.
Peter narrowed his eyes in concentration, he then walked to the lane and released the ball letting it role. The ball rolled to the left making it look like it was about to hit the pins making Peter smile and Kitty lean forward in wonder. Right when it looked like it was gonna hit the pins, the ball missed the pins by three inches. "W-what?! You gotta be kidding me," Peter said as he saw his last two pins knocked down by the machine.
"Hahahahahahaha," Kitty laughed in her seat at Peter's dumbfounded expression. The brunette then got up and headed to her friend while laughing.
"I can't believe it. I absolutely can't believe it," Peter said as Kitty wrapped an arm around him.
"Watch and learn, more like crash and burn. Which means, I win. I told you it was a bad idea to play me, you've never won against me in bowling before, what made you think you'd win this time," Kitty said gloatingly
"No one likes a sore winner Kitty," Peter said pouting making Kitty giggle, "I want a rematch."
Kitty gave a mock sigh, "Ok, but let's get some snacks first, beating you two games in a row makes a girl hungry and I'm gonna need all of my strength to whoop your butt again," Kitty said
"We'll see who will be getting whooped, Miss Pryde," Peter said as he and Kitty headed to the snack bar.
"I suppose we will Mr. Parker," Kitty said
The teens arrived at the counter which has a young woman behind it, "What can I get you," the woman said in a fake cheerful tone.
"I'll have nachos and cheese with a Coca-Cola," Peter said
"I'll have a soft pretzel with some mustard and a Sprite," Kitty said
"Right away," the woman said, with that she prepared the food and put them on the counter, "That would be $10 even."
"I got it," Peter said getting his wallet out,
"No Peter, let me pay," Kitty said getting her wallet out.
"No, I'll handle it," Peter said
"You paid for the bowling, let me get the snacks," Kitty said
"No Kitty, I'll handle it," Peter said
"But I don't want you to pay for everything," Kitty argued
"But I want to," Peter said, he then ended the argument by giving the $10 bill to the amused woman who took it,
With a frustrated sigh Kitty along with Peter picked up their order and started to walk away.
"Enjoy your date," the woman said
Both Peter and Kitty went red at the proclamation, they both then turned to her.
"W-we're not on a date," Peter said
"That's right, w-we're here as friends, b-because we are friends," Kitty said
"Best friends," Peter said
"Yeah, ever since we were little," Kitty said nervously
"And we're just hanging out," Peter said nervously.
"Hmm, well a hangout between two best friends could easily turn into a date between two people who care deeply for one another," the woman said
Peter and Kitty took a quick look at each other only to meet eyes and blush even deeper.
"Um, well, thanks for the food. We'll be going now," Peter said
"Yeah, bye," Kitty said as she and Peter turned around and walked away back to their lane.
The two set the food down at their table and sat down, they then started eating in silence, neither knew what to say after the encounter with the woman. After about five minutes of eating Kitty spoke, "Well that was awkward," she said
"You mean that woman accusing us on being on a date or her saying that we could be something more than best friends," Peter said sarcastically
Kitty grinned, "Both," she said, then she giggled making Peter smirk.
"I suppose it was awkward, I mean could you imagine us being a couple," Peter said
"Anything is possible," Kitty whispered, whether she intended for Peter to hear was unclear, but he did and he couldn't help but smile at the girl who looked up at him and gave a cute smile in return.
Peter smiled, "I guess, anything is. Isn't it," he said as he gently grabbed Kitty's hand.
Kitty looked at their hands, her hand fits perfectly into Peter's. Her heart is beating rapidly, she blushes and looks up to see Peter looking at her softly while blushing himself. She feels happiness fill her.
Meeting Kitty's beautiful blue eyes Peter thought that this is the right time to say what he needed to say. "Kitty," Peter said
"Yeah," Kitty said softly
"There's something I've been meaning to tell you," Peter said
"Yeah," Kitty said getting hopeful.
"We've known each other for a long time, practically our entire lives, and well," Peter said his stomach doing flips
"Y-yeah," Kitty said, her heart pounding in her chest, hope, happiness, excitement, and anticipation filling her.
"Well," Peter said but was interrupted.
"Mommy, Mommy, look," a little girl's voice interrupted them gaining their attention. They turned around to see an 8-year-old girl, with red hair, black eyes with white irises, black jeans, a dark blue shirt, and around her neck is a necklace with a gold rectangle container. Said girl was running up to the two young adults followed by her mother. The girl stopped in front of Peter and Kitty's table and looked at Kitty with excitement much to the mutant girl's confusion and surprise.
"Megan Gwynn, you can't run off like that," the little girl's (Megan's) mother told her, the woman also had red hair, however her eyes were brown instead of black, she was 5'4, had on a white blouse, and blue jeans. The woman looks at the two teens apologetically, "I'm sorry for my daughter, she tends to get excited."
"But Mommy, it's Shadowcat," Megan said pointing at a surprised Kitty.
"What," the woman asked, she then takes a look and immediately recognizes Kitty, "Oh my, you are Shadowcat, aren't you?"
"Yes, I am, h-how do you know me," Kitty asks cautiously, just because people are starting to accept mutants doesn't mean everyone does. She's dealt with a lot of prejudice from the ordinary citizens to hate groups like the Friends of Humanity. Kitty isn't a paranoid person, but she has learned to be cautious.
Her caution seems to be misplaced with the two in front of her though.
The mother smiled at Kitty, "My daughter is a fan of yours," the mother said making Kitty surprised at the discovery.
"A-a fan," Kitty said in surprise as she looked at the girl who nodded.
The mother chuckled, "She watches the news everyday now hoping to catch you and the X-Men," she said
"You're so cool," Megan said making Kitty smile a little.
"Well, I don't know about that, I mean my teammates powers are way cooler than mine, I mean I'm just the girl who can walk through walls," Kitty said but the little girl was not to be swayed.
"Nuh-uh, you're the coolest, you're the one who saved all of those kids in the school bus when that mean guy was making the ground shake," Megan said
"She's your biggest fan, she even models her clothes after yours," the mother said
Kitty took a closer look at the girl and noticed that the little girl's shirt was the same shade of blue as her uniform.
Megan then reached for the container and opened it up, neither Kitty nor Peter could see what was in it, because its back was facing them. The girl slid out what looked like a picture, the girl closed the container and looked at Kitty shyly while still holding the picture. Megan showed the picture to the two teens who looked at it.
Both teens had different reactions, Peter was smiling happy that Kitty was getting some well-deserved attention from people.
Kitty however was once again taken by surprise. In Megan's hand was none other than Kitty in her Shadowcat uniform, she had a determined look on her face, and from the looks of it, it looked like Kitty was moving.
"I-I, how did you get this," Kitty said
"Internet," Megan said
"Once she saw the picture, she had to have it," the mother said
"I wow," Kitty said, she honestly couldn't believe what was happening right now.
"Can, can you sign it," Megan asked shyly.
Kitty couldn't believe it, this little girl wanted her autograph, it was unreal. But as she looked at the girl seeing the admiration in her black eyes, Kitty felt warm inside and couldn't help but give a soft smile, "Sure, anything for my biggest fan," she said
Megan's eyes lit up then and there as Kitty took out a pen and wrote on the picture. Once Kitty gave the picture back, Megan looked at it and it said, Dear Megan, below it said never give up below it said -Kitty Pryde.
Megan put the picture back in its container, she looked up at Kitty, gave the brightest smile, and hugged her, "Thank you," she said
"No, thank you," Kitty said as she hugged back, once they pulled apart Megan's mother spoke.
"Ok Pixie, it's time to go, let's let Miss Pryde get back to her date," the mother said but before either teen could protest of not being on a date Megan interrupted them.
"Ok, Mommy," Megan said, she then looked at the teenagers, "Bye," the girl said as she and her mother walked away.
"Bye," Peter and Kitty said.
When the mother and daughter were gone Kitty spoke, "I can't believe that just happened."
"Are you really that surprised," Peter asked
"Well yeah, I mean for the past few months since Apocalypse, the public seems to have accepted us, for the most part anyway. I'm not being glared at as much or receiving as many wary looks, but no one has come to me and thanked me like that before, it's-," Kitty said
"Nice," Peter said smiling
"Yeah, nice," Kitty said smiling as well
"You deserve it, all of you do," Peter said
"Thanks Peter," Kitty said
"No need to thank me, I'm just stating a fact," Peter said
"Yeah," Kitty said
"Anyway, what do you say we finish this food and I beat you in the lanes," Peter said
"Ha, in your dreams Parker. But I guess it's nice to have dreams despite how unlikely they'll come true," Kitty said
"Alright, that's it we're heading to the lanes," Peter said ready to get up.
"Food first, then we'll get to crushing your dreams," Kitty said grinning mischievously
With that the two ate their food and then headed back to their lane to start another game.
After a few more games in which Kitty wound up winning, the two teenagers left the bowling lane and found themselves walking in the park talking.
"No way seriously," Kitty said
"Seriously," Peter said
"You seriously got an internship at Stark Industries, how," Kitty said
"I am still a bit confused on that part, it had to have been a week after what happened with Otto and the superheroes. It was Saturday morning and I was going out to get the mail to see if I got any acceptance letters," Peter said
"Did you," Kitty asked
"Not yet, but that's not really surprising all things considering," Peter said
"That's true," Kitty said
"Anyway, I'm outside and I have the mail in my hand, going through every envelope when suddenly I hear jet repulsors, I look to see where they are coming from and when I look up there is Iron Man landing in my front yard," Peter said
"That must have been quite the site," Kitty said
"It was, I was so confused," Peter said
Start flashback
Peter looks at Iron Man in shock.
The iron knight's faceplate flips up, "Hey Peter," Tony said
"T-Tony, what are you doing here," Peter asked
"I'm here for you web head," Tony said as he walked towards Peter.
"Me? What for," Peter asked
"I'll tell you when we get there," Tony says as he wraps an arm around Peter's waist.
"Wait, what," Peter said
Tony's faceplate goes down, "Hang on kid," Iron Man said as his boot jets start up.
"Wait, Tony, waaaiiiiiiiiiiiiii-," Peter said trailing off as Iron Man shot off the ground with Peter.
Avengers Tower
Iron Man and Peter land on the landing platform, "Well here we are, I don't think I need to tell you where we are," Iron Man said getting a head shake from Peter. "Good now come on, we have things to discuss." With that Tony headed toward the entrance.
"Discuss what," Peter asked
"I'll tell you inside, chop chop Peter," Tony said
Realizing he wasn't gonna get answers unless he did what the Avenger said Peter followed.
Inside Avengers Tower
The Avengers which currently consists of Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and Hawkeye were all in the main room of the tower waiting for Iron Man who called for a team gathering.
"So, Steve you know what this meeting is about," Hawkeye asked
"Not a clue. Tony came up to me yesterday, telling me that he wanted to set up a team meeting this morning, said he had a surprise for us," Steve said
"Well, where is Stark," Natasha asked
They then all hear the doors that lead to the outside platform and hear Tony talking. Finally, Tony is shown leading to their surprise Peter Parker to where they are, "Our first stop is the penthouse , this is where the Avengers like to hangout and relax," Tony said, he then saw his teammates, "And would you look at that, our first stop and already you get to see the entire team together. Guys, I don't think I really need to introduce you but to those who don't pay attention, this is Peter Parker also known as-," Tony said
"Spider-Man, we know Tony," Steve said
"Um hi," Peter said as he waved not entirely sure what else to do or say considering he has no idea what is going on.
"What are you doing here kid," Natasha asked getting straight to the point.
"Um, I don't really know. I was getting the mail then Tony lands in my front yard, tells me he's there for me, grabs me and flies us here," Peter said
"Tony, please tell me you did not just kidnap Spider-Man," Steve said after listening to the explanation.
"Ok first, he isn't Spider-Man right now, he's Peter Parker and second, I didn't kidnap him, I escorted him to the tower. There's a difference," Tony said
"Why," Clint said
"I'm kind of wondering that too Tony. Not that I think that this isn't really cool because it really is," Peter said
"You graduated from that hero academy that Fury created right," Tony asked
"Yes, I did," Peter said
Tony nodded, "Good, that's good," he said
"Stark, what are you thinking," Natasha said noticing the glint in Tony's eye. She knows from experience that he only gets that glint when he's up to something. Sometimes that something leads to trouble.
"What I'm thinking is that ever since I discovered Spider-Man, I have been impressed over and over again. From when you first started out to when you joined S.H.I.E.L.D and saving us just last week. I'm impressed and I know I speak for the other Avengers when I say they're impressed to. Frankly I would have liked to do this earlier but Fury beat me to it. But now, it's time for me to make my move," Tony said
"What move," Peter asked
"Peter, I'm offering you a place on the Avengers," Tony said
Everyone's eyes widened, "WHAT," everyone in the room said
"Tony, you can't be serious, I mean no offense to the kid, he good but he's a kid, he can't be an Avenger," Clint said
"He won't be part of the main team, he'll be a reserved member," Tony said
"Even as a reserved member, he still young Tony," Steve said
"He's fought alongside us before and even saved our lives and the lives of every other superhero in New York just last week. He can handle it," Tony said
"He doesn't have the training to work as an Avenger," Natasha said
"We don't have to send him out right away. He'll receive training and when deemed ready we'll introduce him as the newest addition to the Avengers," Tony said
"Tony," Steve said but was interrupted
"Um excuse me can I say something, I mean we are talking about me, so I do get a say in this right," Peter said getting everyone's attention
"Of course, go ahead son," Steve said feeling a little guilty talking about the kid like he wasn't in the room, despite his reservations on him joining the team, Spider-Man deserved more respect than that.
Peter nodded, "I'm flattered that you want me to join the Avengers Tony but I have my own team to think about not to mention there has been some rumor about Fury setting up more teams and something tells me that I'm gonna get dragged into that, then there's my solo act around New York, ever since the Doc Ock incident crime seems to have gone up, then there's school. I have a bit of a full plate right now, I'm not sure I could fit being an Avenger in it," Peter tried to explain why he couldn't he an Avenger, but it seems like Tony was ready for this argument because he didn't even miss a beat.
"I understand your worries kid, here's the thing, your team works for S.H.I.E.L.D," Tony said, he then pointed at Clint and Natasha, "Those two works for S.H.I.E.L.D as well, they are also part of the main team of Avengers yet they have been able to balance their S.H.I.E.L.D duties and Avengers duties. You'd be a reserved member. Reserved members are only called when the main team can't handle a situation and needs backup. Reserved members are also called if one of the members of the main team become unavailable and we need another person to stand in. reserved members aren't called upon much, your life wouldn't be as drastically changed as you might think. The only thing I'll ask from you is to come when it's time for training," Tony said
"Well," Peter said
"I'll also be offering you a paid internship to Stark Industries," Tony said
"W-What. Are you serious," Peter said
Tony nodded, "I looked you up, your smart kid, incredibly so. I looked up your records and it certainly wasn't the spider bite that made you as smart as you are. I mean despite some of the trouble it caused, I can't ignore the fact that a 16-year-old was able to make so many gadgets. Not to mention that webbing of yours is genius. Stark Industries need people like you Peter and the Avengers needs someone like Spider-Man," Tony said
"Tony," Steve said
Tony looked at his team who all had skeptical looks on their faces, "The kid can handle it. His accomplishments speak for itself, he's young yes, but he's smart and resourceful, even without our training he would be an asset but with it he can be more," Tony said
"You really have this much faith in the kid," Clint asked looking at Peter.
"I do," Tony said seriously
Seeing how serious Tony was about recruiting Spider-Man Steve relented, "Alright Tony, if you have this much faith in him then I have no objections," Steve said
"He'll be a reserved member so it's not like we'll have to worry about him as much," Natasha said
"Hm, fine with me," Hulk said
"I would be honored to fight alongside the Man of Spiders once again," Thor said
Looking at his fellow originals, Hawkeye sighed, "Fine," he said
"Well that settles it, so what do you say Peter, out there you can be the Ultimate Spider-Man but in here, with us, you can be the Avenging Spider-Man," Tony said
"Avenging Spider-Man," Peter said
Tony nodded.
"First Sensational then Spectacular then Amazing then Ultimate and now Avenging, what's next Omega," Hawkeye said making Steve smirk.
"Hm Astonishing," Hulk requested
"So, what do you say Peter," Tony asked
"I-I honestly don't know what to say," Peter said not sure what to say, everything was happening so fast.
"Tell you what, let's do a trial run, see if you can balance everything, if you can't we'll work on it, and if you still feel you can't handle it then you can leave the Avengers, no hard feelings," Tony said
"Really," Peter asked
"Really, either way though I want you working at Stark Industries, you're still in school so I can't give you a career job but I can give you an internship which as I said before is paid. So, what do you say Peter, you in," Tony said holding out his hand.
"I I, yes," Peter said shaking Tony's hand
"Good," Tony said
Steve walks up to Peter and places his hand on the boy's shoulder, "Welcome to the Avengers Spider-Man," he said
"Yes, welcome Man of Spiders, I look forward to fighting alongside you once again," Thor said
"Congrats Web-head," Hulk said
"Yeah, yeah, I can't wait to see how Jan and Hank take this," Hawkeye said
Natasha just stayed quiet.
"Thanks," Peter said
"Now that that is settled it's time, I gave you a tour to the rest of the tower. Let's go," Tony said
"Ok, can I call my Aunt May though, I'm sure she's worried," Peter said
"Sure, you can call her on the way to my lab," Tony said as he walked to the directing of his lab followed by Peter.
End flashback
"And that's what happened," Peter said
Kitty whistled, "Dam Peter, so you're an Avenger," she asked
"They say I'm a reserved member, but it feels more like an Avenger in training," Peter said
Kitty nodded, she was feeling proud for her friend but also really scared for him. Being an Avenger meant that he was gonna be part of more dangerous missions than he is now, and she honestly didn't like that. Kitty has no idea what she would do if Peter were to die one day. Actually, she knew what she would do, how she would react. Peter's death would break her and there would be no putting her back together. Kitty looked at Peter then, 'He's an Avenger now, he's also part of S.H.I.E.L.D as well, I'm an X-Man. Both of us could die anytime, I don't want any regrets,' Kitty thought, she was brought out of her thoughts by Peter.
"So that little girl at the bowling alley reminded me of something that I wanted to ask you," Peter said
"Yeah, what," Kitty said
"Well, she wasn't the only one who saw what happened between the X-Men and Brotherhood, I was just wondering how you were doing with all of that," Peter said
"Oh, well we're still here. Bobby got two broken ribs courtesy of the Blob. Scott's got a nasty bruise on his arm, Jean is making sure he doesn't overdo it. Kurt's tail got fractured due to some falling pieces of building and concrete. The rest of us were able to get out with a few bumps and bruises.
Peter nodded, "You guys saved a lot of people, especially you. If it weren't for you all of those children would have died," Peter said
"Yeah, I still can't believe what caused that," Kitty said
Peter hesitated for a moment not sure if he should ask. What if she actually got together with that jerk. She wouldn't have done that, would she? He out of everyone knows that Kitty has more self-respect than that. She'd never be with anyone who would dare to kill children with no remorse. But what if she did? It didn't matter, he had to do this. Harry was right he's waited too long. "How are you really doing," Peter asked making Kitty look at him. "With Lance, I mean he was the cause of it. I know that you liked him, it must have been hard on you seeing him do that."
Kitty frowned, at the mention of Lance, her good mood plummeted, "It was. I'm no longer associated with Lance anymore," she said
"Really," Peter said actually surprised. He knows Kitty has more self-respect than to date someone who isn't sorry for their actions. So far though Kitty believed that deep down Lance was sorry and he only did what he did to survive which is why Kitty so far has been able to forgive Lance of everything that he's done so far. He knows that she has been wanting to save him, to show the guy that there is a different path he could take. It was admirable of her. Then again, he isn't surprised, Kitty has always been the type of person who would go out of her way to help someone. It's just who she is and it's one of the reasons why he loves her. The fact that Kitty has decided to cut herself off from Lance, something must have happened, and he can't help but worry. If the bastard hurt Kitty, he'll find the guy and show him what Spider-Man can do with no restraints. "What happened?"
Kitty hesitated, not sure if she should tell Peter, she trusts Peter more than she trusts anyone, more than she does the X-Men. She knows that she could tell him anything, but she also knew that Peter never liked Lance. She's told him stories about her encounter with the Brotherhood and every story didn't exactly paint a good picture of the guy. He also probably knows some things about what Lance has done through S.H.I.E.L.D. Magneto is the type of person that S.H.I.E.L.D would watch and considering the Brotherhood works under him, S.H.I.E.L.D is no doubt watching them as well. Peter may know things that she doesn't. Kitty always liked to think that deep down there was good in Lance but if Peter of all people who thinks that everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves thinks that Lance should be locked up, how would he react to what she tried to do a couple of weeks ago. He would never condemn her, they're too close for something like this to get in between them but she certainly isn't looking forward to the disappointment in his eyes. After all no matter how close they are, they have felt disappointment in each other before and it's never a good feeling when she feels his disappointment.
Peter sees Kitty's hesitance, "Hey, if you don't want to talk about it. If it's too painful, ok. If you could answer me one question though. Did he hurt you Kitty," Peter said
Kitty seeing Peter being protective of her felt a little annoyance considering she can very well take care of herself but mostly warmth knowing that he knows that she is capable but will always do everything in his power to keep her from harm because he cares about her. Kitty then gains the courage to tell him, but first, "Let's go somewhere private so we can talk about this," Kitty said
Peter nodded, "Anywhere in particular that you would like to go," he asked
"Well, there is this place that I've always wanted to go too, but I've never been able to get to the top," Kitty said
Peter smirked, "Can't you float," he asked, he knows where this is going.
Kitty gave a mischievous smile, "Now where is the fun in that," she said
Peter gave an exasperated sighed making Kitty giggle, "Let me find somewhere to change," Peter said smiling.
With that Peter and Kitty went to a secluded area so Peter could change. Peter changed into his Spider-Man costume, wrapped an arm around a smiling Kitty, "You ready to go," he asked
Kitty wrapped her arms around Spider-Man's torso, "Ready," she said
"Alright, here we go," Spider-Man said with that he shot a web to the nearest building and swung off with Kitty, quickly gaining enough height to where no one can see them.
END CHAPTER