Peter Benjamin Parker is Spider-Man and he is open about it. Well, to his aunt May, the rest of the world is none the wiser. After his uncle Ben died, he was a wreck, but so was May. Especially his extremely fast metabolism made life complicated. May's work schedule already limited her time to cook.
When he asked for her to teach him to cook, she was skeptical about it. At first, she thought he asked as a bonding activity. One day she asked him. Peter could not lie to her, so he told her about his powers and being Spider-Man. She was surprisingly accepting of his heroic acts. The powers, they are there and seem to not leave as randomly as they come, thy have to roll with it. His Persona as Spider-Man, she thought it was too dangerous.
But she didn't ban him of it or grounded him, instead she took up extra hours to pay for self defense and fighting classes as well as teaching him to cook. May also became his aunt in the chair, she informed him of crimes around the city, as well as she could. Peter was very thankful to his aunt.
So thankful in fact that he just accepted her husband, even though he has a lot of choice words to say about the man. Of all people in New York, May had to fall for J. Jonah Jameson. May apologized for dating him, though. But Peter told her not to apologize and just be happy.
He really tried to keep calm when she married the man. Jonah, turns out he hates his first name, picked up easily that Peter doesn't like him, and he had no idea why. At first he assumed Peter didn't like him because of his stupid comment about Peter's cooking. After he apologized, Jonah's theory was that Peter saw him as someone trying to replace Ben. After that theory died, and Peter continued being cold to him into his early twenties, he was as confused as he can be.
Unbeknownst to him, Peter dislikes him, because nearly a quarter of his job is just him complaining and insulting Spider-Man, Peter's alter ego. Bu Jonah didn't know. He just knew Peter as his step nephew who hated him and liked to cook, so much that he attended culinary school and graduated at twenty two years of age.
Which confused Jonah. After starting his relationship with May, especially after they moved in together, he noted that Peter was extremely intelligent, gifted with tech and science. Yet he choose cooking of all things. Not even as a side thing.
His aunt's reasoning was that just because someone is good at something, doesn't mean they want to do it, especially as something as time consuming as their job. Jonah still thinks he should have gone for the sciences, seeing as this is where the money flows.
For a while Jonah thought that was why Peter continued to stay cold to him, because he tried to push him into something Peter didn't want. So he stopped. Jonah tried his best that Peter likes him, or stops disliking him, in fact he wanted to adopt Peter, but his step nephew always rejected. This caused the odd situation that May has two surnames, now being 'May Reilly Jameson Parker', while Peter's name didn't change.
A few months after Peter graduated culinary school, Jonah was contacted by a relative who once loaned money from Jonah and other relatives to open a restaurant. They asked for more, as their establishment fails. Jonah did not. Instead he brought out the other relatives and gave the restaurant to May and Peter.
May liked the idea to run the restaurant, partly because she really hated her job. Jonah offered her to be a house wife, but she didn't want to. Jonah and May have a big-ish age difference, which Jonah's family never fails to mention. They also never fail to mention that. And that Peter dislikes Jonah. They are salty Jonah took the restaurant from his biological great nephew.
It was getting late in New York City, the sun started to set. Peter was swinging around the city, when May called, her voice talking to him though an ear piece she build into his suit.
"Peter, there is a fire near the restaurant!", she informed her nephew.
"On it, May!", he replied and changed his direction back to Queens. He just came from there and wanted to patrol though Manhattan. Dodging buildings, he soon saw the fire lighting the arriving night. Their restaurant is near a hotel, one in fire by now.
He jumped into an open window and started searching for any one locked into a room. Having to punch though a few doors and handling one girl with a fear of heights, the fire finished and his job was done. After the fire was put out and the fire fighters thanked him, he returned home.
On the way back, he passed a few screens streaming Jonah's news. To Peter's surprise, the man didn't complain about his persona. Maybe he realized he makes a fool out of himself when he complains about someone who risks their life for others. Not that Peter thinks Jonah has that much self awareness.
One rule May demanded was - unless something else demands his attention - he has to return home after some ordeals, including fire. Anything that way require medical attention, which May can provide as a nurse. If she isn't home, she taught him some tricks, has stocked first aid kits and he has to apply them himself and rest.
Before going home, he had ridden himself of his suit and came in though the front door to Jameson's house. More like mansion. Peter at first was unsure to move in with him when he and May married, but he was a minor, so his opinion where to life wasn't important.
As soon as he came in, May hugged him, relieved he was okay. Her husband wasn't home yet, still at work. He told his aunt, "I am okay, May. But is Jonah? He was oddly silent about me today."
"I know. Maybe he realized Spider-Man isn't that bad.", guessed May. "Maybe you can embrace him as your uncle now."
"If he apologizes - publicly - to me as Spider-Man, maybe I consider doing so.", he replied.
A few days later, Jameson told his wife and step nephew great news, at least he thought of them as great news. He invited the Avengers to their restaurant.
"H-How?", asked Peter.
"It is simple, I offered them a free meal when I met them at an event I reported on. As a thanks for saving the world, our country and our city so much.", explained Jonah.
"If you thank them for that, then why do you insult Spider-Man so much?", asked May her husband. "You sound like a hypocrite, you know."
"Spider-Man isn't comparable to the Avengers, he is a menace if anything.", stated Jonah, "He mainly fights villains that want revenge on him. If h won't exist, they won't attack New York."
"If it wasn't for Spider-Man, New York's crime rate would be even higher.", countered Peter. His aunt nod, agreeing with Peter's point. "On the other hand, you would be out of a job, if the crime rate gets even lower, James."
"Peter, don't call me by my first name! You know I hate that!"
"That's why I call you by it.", said Peter. "Now, about the Avengers thing. When is it? And who cooks, Kristina is off." Kristina, the other cook besides Peter, took a long vacation. One she deserved a lot, after covering for Peter so much. She may or may not know he is Spider-Man.
"You, of course.", answered Jonah, "I actually bragged a bit about your skills."
"Please don't..."
The day came and the patch work family waited for the Avengers arrived at eight. Peter may be an atheist, but he prayed for any god who may listen, that something happens that requires the Avengers attention. Well, he is an atheist to anything that isn't Norse gods. Thor is proof they exist.
Before they came, May checked everything trice if everything is clean and presentable. Like her nephew, albeit not so vocally, she slightly curses Jonah for inviting them. Her husband just said, "Imagine they just came here on their own accord, we won't have time to prepare! We know they come, so we can prepare."
The Avengers are known to just check out food places in New York in their down time. A honor for the owners, but also a nightmare. The ones close to the Avengers Tower are slightly paranoid.
Peter checked that every ingredient and even more is stocked and far from the expiration date. He made sure all his cooking appliances worked, that the knives are sharp.
Jonah kept an eye open for them to arrive, which could happen any minute now. May was checking on Peter who was the most nervous of the three. He was the cook, after all. Walking into the kitchen, she saw Peter sharpening knives while eyeing a laptop that was close by. She saw Peter had send a few applications for different jobs, mostly cooking related. Before she could say anything, her husband announced the Avengers arriving.
Three cars, one of them being Hawk Eye's very recognizable purple car, drove in front of the restaurant. The first car, the most expensive looking, belonged to Tony Stark. He was followed by Steve Rogers, Stephen Strange and Thor. After them arrived Clint Barton, his wife, James Buchanan and Wanda Maximoff in the driving grape. Then came Natasha Romanov, Loki, Dr. Bruce Banner and James Rhodes. "Nat, are you sure I shouldn't be the designated driver?"
"No, you won't drive my car. I can handle the alcohol.", she replied.
"I don't think it is a good idea if you drink and drive.", said Rhodes. "I take the bus, if you drink."
"And I just teleport away.", said Loki.
The Avengers came in and looked around.
"Welcome to my families restaurant, Avengers! I am happy you accepted my invitation.", said Jonah. He gestured to May, "This is my wife, May." Then to Peter. "And my nephew Peter, the chef of our establishment."
"Who are we to say no to free food?", joked Tony Stark.
"The kid's a chef already?", asked Clint. His wife glared at him.
"Clint, this is a family owned restaurant, what did you expect? That Mr. Jameson is the chef?"
"No."
Peter forced himself not to sigh and roll his eyes. He is twenty five, not a child. After May guided them to the biggest table, one reserved for group celebrations, Peter left to the kitchen. May waited for them to order.
"I think I will test the kid.", said Natasha. "I'll order a steak well done."
"That is just mean, well done always sucks. Drier than a desert.", replied Tony.
Hearing that doubled Peter's nervousness. While he prefers his steaks well done - controversial opinion, but he can't handle blood, apparently due to his powers - he is well aware most people, especially in Stark's social cycle, the more raw a steak, the more classy it is.
He and May just see potential food poisoning. Something Jonah is still annoyed with, so much May has the rule he has to cook his bloody slap himself. That and he has to live though, "It is so raw, it still moo's."
After everyone ordered - Thor took so long, as Pop tarts weren't an option for desserts - Peter started cooking. Luckily he hyper focuses so much on cooking, if not he would just worry about not pleasing the Avengers, especially Iron Man and Black Widow.
May knew not to interrupt him, but she really wanted to ask about the applications. Did he plan to leave their restaurant? Why?
Soon, the first dishes were finished. Partly because Captain America, Dr. Strange and Wanda all three ordered the same lasagna, Wanda with an additional spicy sauce. As soon as the lasagna was done, all three got their dish. Soon everyone else was done. Peter was worried how the Black Widow would like her steak. Or not. Even the other Avengers liking their food didn't calm down Peter's nerves.
Natasha ate her steak, no real emotion on her face visible.
"How is it, Nat?", asked Tony. "How dry is it?"
Stephen Strange, who ordered a medium rare steak, said, "Don't be rude about it. Mine tastes good, so hers can't be that bad."
"It is pretty good, actually.",. said Natasha nonchalantly. Peter felt a weight being lifted from him. "Here, try it yourself." And here it was again.
Natasha cut Tony a piece and put it on his plate of fish. He forked it up and tried it. "I... that is really good. I didn't knew it is possible that a well done steak doesn't suck."
"To be fair, most chefs dislike well done, they are biased. While I don't say they intentionally ruined them, I think their bias influenced their cooking every time Tony tried one.", said Banner, eating his. Unlike Tony, he likes Well done, claiming it keeps Hulk calm. "In fact, I think these very same chefs made bad well done's, but maybe I am biased to say that."
"Maybe.", agreed Tony.
Peter was relieved. Soon it was time for desserts. Something May helped with.
Most of them ordered Tiramisu's, while Thor ordered something akin to Pop tarts from the children's menu. While Steve Rogers just ordered ice cream.
"Boring!"
"Said the fifth person to order Tiramisu, Tony."
"Excuse you, Tiramisu has class.", said Tony annoyed, "But seriously, vanilla?"
"There is nothing wrong with self made vanilla ice cream.", argued the soldier.
"Anyway, I thought a bit."'
"What stupid thing do you want to invent now?", asked Natasha.
"Not invention, I was thinking about hiring a private cook for us.", explained Tony. "With our missions, we hardly have time to cook, not that anyone of us is a good cook and constantly ordering Chinese can't be healthy."
"That is a good idea.", said Stephen Stone. "Took you a while to come up with it."
"I think I'll ask for a second piece.", said Wanda and left the table. Walking to the kitchen, she saw May and Peter Parker talking.
"Peter! Why are you looking for other jobs? , she asked, trying not to sound angry.
"May, can we please discuss this when the Avengers are gone?", replied her nephew,. "But yes, I've been looking. I just don't think this job is stable. What if you and Jonah divorce? What if he passes away? He isn't exactly young. O-Or you? Would he keep me around?"
"I doubt you mind the later.", she said. "Fine, we discuss this when we are home."
Embarrassed having eavesdropped, she returned to the table without dessert. This was noted by the Avengers, who asked. Wanda explained what she overheard.
"A shame he plans to leave, he is good.", said Natasha.
Out as Spidey, Peter relaxed. Even after Iron Man Black Widow both praised his cooking, he still felt stiff. Sitting on a roof, he over viewed the city. He felt his sense tingling. Turning around, he saw Nick Fury, the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. The Avengers' boss, essentially. Peter read a few supposed to be secret files about him.
"Hello, Mr. Fury.", greeted him Spider-Man, "What can I do for you?"
"I want you to reveal your identity to S.H.I.E.L.D and that you join the Avengers.", explained Fury.
"What?" Peter could not believe what he heard. Then his Spidey Sense was in overdrive. If this isn't a sign to decline, then he doesn't know what is. He can't reveal his identity. He can't go public like the Avengers. "I have to decline, I care about my identity too much." With that, Peter jumped down the skyscraper.
As soon as he was home, and as soon as he was sure that Jonah wasn't home yet - yet again he kept silent about his Persona on his show - Peter told his aunt to what had happened.
May was still sour about him wanting to leave - moving our was also on the agenda - but she agreed with his skepticism about Fury's offer. She doesn't trust what S.H.I.E.L.D may demand from him.
With that, they decided he would reject any further offerings and keep vigilant, if Fury switches to more pressuring methods of conviction. May then announced, more happier, "I hired a new dish washer."
A new day, a new round of Mini Pizza's being ordered. Nearly each little disk of dough ordered with a different topping. Peter focused hard to not mix anything up. It didn't help that his step uncle tried to talk to him about an event he was at for his job.
"And than that actress May likes so much spilled wine on her dress. I wished I could have that being broadcast, but May would have banned me onto the couch if I would have embarrassed her.", he told Peter who didn't listen.
"Jonah, could you please tell me this another time, but I need to focus on this.", said Peter.
"It is not like you care about your job here.", said Jonah. Peter rolled his eyes, of course the man talks more when he is asked to talk less. "May told me you are looking for a new job. May I ask why? I don't understand our family business."
Peter dried his hands after cleaning off the flour. He can't work on the Pizza's if Jonah won't shut up. Peter then threw the towel to the ground in annoyance. "Please shut up before I get the toppings wrong! And if you really want to know, I want to leave because this job depends if you stay loyal to May and don't divorce her."
"You think I would-"
Jameson was interrupted by the door opening and the Avengers walking in. Specifically Tony Stark, Steve Rogers and Natasha Romanov.
"Mr. Parker? Are you here?"
Peter was so confused what they wanted from him. He told the new dish washer and the other cook, "Can you finish the Mini's for me?" He then walked to the heroes. Jonah was following him. The patrons in the restaurant were watching, why are the Avengers here?
"Welcome, Mr. Stark, Mr. Rogers and Ms. Romanov, how can I help you?", asked Peter, "We are understaffed today, I apologize for that."
"This isn't a problem, we just have an offer for you.", explained Tony Stark.
Jameson jumped in and said, "We don't sell this place, if this is what you want to ask."
"That neither, Mr. Jameson. We want to offer your nephew a job. We've been looking for a private chef-"
"Why my nephew?", asked Jameson.
"We heard that he is looking for a new job and we liked his cooking.", explained Steve Rogers simply.
Peter was very surprised. He nearly said yes, but caught himself. He can't just rush into this, so he asked, "How much would be my pay?"
"Double what you earn now?", offered Mr. Stark.
"I accept.", said Peter.
"No, you don't.", chimed Jameson in.
"Just because you're married to my aunt doesn't make this your business.", snapped Peter back, "And you know I've been looking for a new job. Do you really expect me to reject an offer like that? Not everyone has familial wealth like you."
"Can we discuss the details?"', asked Tony.
"Sure, I show you the way to the office.", answered Peter.
Peter and the Avengers left. Jonah is shocked his nephew just took the first offer he got like that. On the other hand, many people would dream of working for the Avengers in any form. It would be the closest thing to joining the Avengers for many.
He walked to a backroom and called his wife. May would like to know that their nephew jumped ship already.
"Jonah?", asked May.
"It is about Peter, he, you don't believe it. The Avengers came in and offered him to work for them as their private cook.", explained her husband. "Peter accepted. He and Tony Stark discuss the terms as we speak."
"I didn't think he would really leave, I just assumed he kept applications ready if something happens.", said May. What is that supposed to mean? Jonah feels insulted, do both of them think he'll drop Peter. Besides that Peter's skills are one of the main reasons this place is successful, he isn't that spiteful. Not that he thinks his relationship to May will falter like that.
"I mean, many people his age idolize the Avengers, it isn't too surprising he accepted.", said Jonah.
"Yes... but-never mind." May is hiding something, he feels it in her bones. "I just hope he takes his time to move out."
"Someday that will happen, especially when he has a girlfriend."
"I know...", admitted May. "Oh, and Jonah? Don't you dare setting Peter up with on of your friends daughters and nieces."
Peter left the discussion quite happy. On his way home, it settled in to what he just agreed. A job in the close proximity to the Avengers, regular, nearly daily contact. He may or may not had put his persona as Spider-Man in jeopardy. He'll figure something out. He has to. It would be more suspicious if he pulls back now.
Arriving home, he masked his skepticism and pretended to be extremely happy.
"May? I have news!"
"I know, Pete, Jonah already told me.", replied his aunt, greeting him with a hug. "I am happy for you, but don't you think this was a bit rushed? Do you really feel the need to leave?"
"Yes, May. We already spoke about that."
"But not enough, I think.", said Jonah, butting into their conversation. "Peter, if it is the pay, we can-"
"It. Is. Not. I told you two why I looked for more secure options.", said Peter.
"But... Jonah, can you leave us alone?"' asked May her husband.
"But we-fine." He walked to his office.
"Oh, he didn't argue, weird.", muttered Peter. "I assume you want to talk to Spider-Man?"
"Yes. Won't it be a risk for you to be so close to them?", asked his aunt.
"Yes, but it is a risk I am willing to take.", said Peter. "Trust me."
The next Monday, Peter was introduced to the Avengers. His first task was to make the Lasagna some of them had at the dinner. While Peter worked his magic, Thor and Loki watched the process. While Thor found everything on earth interesting, Loki was curious how some aspects, like cuisines, differ on Earth and Asgard.
"This looks so easy for you.", said Thor.
"I guess it is, but only because I was class best in chemistry in school.", said Peter absentmindedly. "Cooking is nothing more than applied science and following the instructions of a recipe, even ones you have done so often that you know it in your sleep."
"Like ballet?", asked Natasha, joining the three in the kitchen.
"What? Ballet?" This confused Peter.
"The training in the Red Room starts with ballet.", explained Natasha. "I still know every step of the Red Room's Swan Lake."
Peter had no idea how to reply, luckily Dr. Bruce Banner provided a change of topic. "So, you used to be good in sciences?"
"And other subjects. I was an overachiever i school. My old teachers, friends and relatives are still surprised I became a cook and didn't collect PhD's en mass."
"Why? Why did you choose cooking?", asked Dr. Banner.
"Simple. There are differences between being good at something and wanting to do something. Especially when it comes to careers.", explained Peter to his new bosses.
After the lasagna was served, Bruce and Tony dragged Peter into the lab and tested him a bit. A bit meaning, they tested his knowledge as deep as they could until dinner rolled around.
Seeing that the science bros drained their cook on the first day, the team decided on something easy to make. Pizza.
"But what toppings?", asked Wanda.
"I could make Mini Pizza's, each with different toppings for everyone.", proposed Peter.
"Can you make a salad as well?", asked Wanda.
"Sure."
It had been a month since he started working for the Avengers. His aunt and step uncle just accepted his new job, not that they could do anything about it. May as just glad he didn't move out in the blink of an eye. His other persona still avoided the Avengers, something even the New York-er citizens noted.
Someone spray painted a billboard near their tower, asking them to leave Spidey alone, so that he can continue helping them. Someone else in a different color added, "Unlike you, he actually helps us normal folks." Turns out there are people who don't like the Avengers.
While cooking another lasagna - Peter is convinced Wanda could eat her weight in it at this point - he overheard them talking bout him. Well, his persona of Spider-Man. The typical rants about being unable to talk to Spider-Man, that the vigilante avoids them still. Nick Fury breathing down their neck about Spider-Man. The graffiti.
"I don't know who is more scary, Fury or New Yorkers when angry.", said Clint Barton. "Probably the later, out of numbers."
Tony then asked, "Peter, what do you think about this?"
"Your attempts at making Spidey join?" Tony nod. "Well, maybe he is afraid to join you.", fake guessed Peter. He knows he is afraid. Peter should know, he is Spider-Man.
"Afraid? Of what?", asked Natasha, "He already faced big threats close to our level."
"Not necessarily this type of scared. You read the second Graffiti, maybe he is scared to abandon the little man if he joins you. Or his identity. If his name gets out, his family may be at risk of villain attacks."
"I never thought about that.", admitted Tony. "Well... I need to talk to Nick Fury."
Peter's Spider Sense tingled, stronger than normally. He leant onto the work space.
"Peter?", asked Stephen Strange. He is a doctor, he knows if someone isn't well.
"Headache. I-I am okay."
"No. You better take it easy.", said Dr. Strange.
"I agree. You better go home and rest for today.", agreed Tony.
"I'm not going to argue.", said Peter.
Peter switched into Spider-Man as soon as he could. Thank god or whoever he befriended Harry Osborne who gave him such a high spec suit. As soon as the suit was on, he was met by his aunt's voice, telling him the restaurant is on fire. Peter lost no time getting there. After seeing the place was empty, he saw a writing.
"You are next, Jameson."
It his his step uncle's fault, of course it is. Swinging home, he saw the mansion burning as well. Going in, he discovered the entrance and back doors were closed. Breaking in the front door, he rescued May and Jonah.
May really tried not to hug Peter, she had to act along. Jameson on the other hand, in a way it was awkward to be saved by the person he verbally slandered for years now. "Um, thank you, Spider-Man.", he said. "May I ask how you reacted so fast?"
"Your restaurant was burning - which I knew as it was on my way home - and there was a message." He showed them the picture he took of it. "Your address is public knowledge, so... yeah."
"This is bad, this is bad.", said Jameson, "Wait, where is Peter?"
"He should be at work.", said May, passively asking why her nephew isn't at work. "So neither here or the restaurant"
While the firefighters were able to save the mansion, it needed a renovation from the damage. May couldn't imagine how the restaurant now looks like. May then booked a suite at a nearby hotel. She will NOT ask Jonah's relatives for help.
Peter, a while later, came to the hotel. Arriving in the room, and May hugs him, asking if he is okay, even though she knows he is.
"What now?", asked Peter. "I for my part will take this as a sign to move out."
"What, why!?", asked Jonah.
"Well, maybe because someone is after you and I do not want to be in the crossfire? Our address being public knowledge is because of you, after all."
"May?", he asked, in hope he has his wife's support.
"He has a point, Jonah.", said May, agreeing with her nephew. "What now, Pete?"
"I will look for an apartment, now that I have a job that doesn't depend on your marital status."
"Peter!", scolded him May. "Now that you really won't return, Jonah, why do we even bother? I supported your idea to take it over from your relative because of Peter's skills."
"Well, it is burnt to the ground and it isn't like we life on that revenue.", said Jonah. "We close it."
"I call our employees then, that they are now out of a job.", decided May.
The next day, Peter returned to his work. Wanda was the first one to ask about the fires. Natasha told her not to.
"It is okay.", he said.
"Apparently not. You sound annoyed.", pointed Loki out.
"I am just annoyed by my step uncle. Puplicly known address. If it wasn't for him, my aunt and I won't be stuck in a hotel.", he said, "Thank god I switched my job."
"If you want, your family and you could stay in the tower. It would be saver here, despite someone being after your uncle."
"My aunt and her husband already found a place, so no need."
"And you?", asked Wanda.
"Finally moving out. It was getting embarrassing to still live with my aunt.", admitted Peter.
"In that case, the offer still stands but just for you.", said Tony, "The real estate and renting market is crazy according to some."
"Well, I-I accept!"
"Great, now, can you bake?", asked Tony.
"He literally made two cakes last week.", said Loki.
"I meant more complicated stuff, like souffles or French layered pastries.", explained Tony.
"Some yes, some no. I still learn to bake, especially French stuff. I can do souffles, though.", said Peter, "I do not bother with baking schooling, as it simply isn't my focus."
"Fair."
Tony gave him a room in the tower. His aunt wasn't too excited that he got it. He wonders if she now starts to hate them for the offers. If she does, she tried to hide it, she had hidden it behind the worry for being even closer to the Avengers.
"I start to think you want to take S.H.I.E. offer.", said May annoyed.
"I am far too skeptical about S.H.I.E.L.D to do that.", said Peter. "How are you and Jonah doing?"
"Jonah faults himself for you leaving.", revealed May. "Maybe we should tell him about Spider-Man?"
"I don't want to ruin your marriage, not to mention that he will dox me.", argued Peter. "To some extend, he isn't wrong."
May just sighed before ending the call.
A few hours later, he was making dinner. Including for himself, now that he lives in the tower. Steve Rogers, with the backing of Tony Stark, Stephen Strange and Natasha, requested steaks, multitudes of potatoes and dessert.
While making the steaks, he made sure his on well done. A fact Clint Barton can't leave unnoticed.
"Well done, seriously? Pff hahaha! You like that?", he asked while mocking Peter.
"Stop mocking our cook!", complained Wanda.
Peter replied, "If I do it myself or know the cook doesn't overcooks it intentionally to prove some superiority complex, then yes. And I can't properly digest the blood." A more annoying feature of his powers. He has no idea why, but his powers really hate raw foods. Luckily he can stomach Sushi. To some extend. "In general, I can't really digest raw foods, but vegetables and fruits. Oh, and nuts."
"Oh, I didn't know, sorry.", said Clint.
"No problem."
Tony then came into the floor, "Everyone, including Peter, I have news!"
"Really?", asked Steve, "Wait, how was your talk with Fury?"
"Good, good. I... invited him to din with us.", revealed Tony. "Well, he invited himself. He was curious about Peter, he said."
"Me?", asked Peter confused. He didn't figure out he was Spidey, did he?
"Yeah, we may or may not have hyped up your cooking skills a lot, especially your steaks.", admitted Tony, "He wants a well done one, by the way."
This is the first time Peter even considered killing someone. Not only do most people hate it and only order to hate on it, Nick Fury is someone Peter wanted to avoid. Looks like the price for the job and room offer rears its head now.
Peter was swinging though New York. Instead of, well, doing her job - well, decided favor - she just tried to convince Peter to move back. Jonah got a new apartment, so he won't need to bother the Avengers. And his secret would be at risk far less.
"I am not, unless you have your name on something as well.", he told her, "Not to mention, I am twenty five, I need to move out at some point."
"Pete... are you still insecure about what may happen if Jonah leaves me?"
"Yes. Didn't I make that clear?", he said. He then saw Iron Man flying by. "Fuck, Iron Man! I need to end the call."
One week later, Peter woke up in his bed in the tower. He realized today he has to cook for the demon of S.H.I.E.L.D. Odin, have mercy. Should he start worshiping Loki? Anything to survive that.
He started to cook, preparing the meat. To Tony's jealousy, Peter did one of the most time consuming meat preparations he knows of. Well, one that doesn't take multiple days.
While cooking, none of the Avengers were bothering him, albeit Loki and Thor were watching. So does Stephen, surprisingly. Albeit the later commented, "One steak for each of us, let's hope he doesn't bring a guest."
"Shit! I didn't consider that.", he said, realizing his idiocy. "If that happens, I just skip out and eat when he left."
Loki then asked, "Peter, may I ask why you cook?"
"Well, it is a bit of a story. I ate a lot as a teen, but May didn't have the time to cook. Because she didn't want me to eat so much junk, and because cooking oneself is cheaper than restaurants or takeout, she started to teach me. And I enjoyed cooking, so here I am."
"That sounds like great parenting on your aunt's part.", said Nick Fury, walking in. He was followed by a man. "I am sorry for being early, the traffic was lesser jammed than expected. Oh, and I brought Agent Phil Coulson."
Peter sighed. Looks like he'll skip. Unless Mr. Coulson is a vegetarian. He doubts that, though. Said agent walked to Peter, "I should tell you, I recently switched to Vegetarianism. I hope this isn't a problem for you?"
"Not at all, Mr. Coulson.", said Peter. "Do you like tofu? I have an idea for a tofu steak replacement."
"You can cook vegetarian?", asked Tony impressed.
"Yes, as well as vegan, keto and a few others. I always try to learn new recipes and methods.", explained Peter.
"I never really tried tofu. Like I said, I switched recently. As in two days ago.", admitted Coulson.
Soon, the food was done and served. Like Baton, but lesser rude, Fury and Coulson commented on his preference of steaks. Peter tried his best not to show his nervousness. Unlike the dinner at the restaurant, he wasn't sitting with them. Man, when Ned returns from Asia, he will have a story to tell. Dinner with the Avengers, Ned will be so jealous!
"Wow, this is very good! I don't understand the many horror stories I heard about Tofu.", said Phil Coulson.
"I am happy you like it.", said Peter.
"And you, boss?", asked Coulson his boss.
No Peter's nervousness spiked. Nick Fury said, "Stark, I may borrow your cook a few times. The kid's great." A praise. From Nick Fury. He even ignores being called a kid for this. "Parker, how did you find the time to learn cooking like this when you're Spider-Man?"
Peter dropped his cutlery, so did some of the Avengers. "H-How do you know?"
"Our cook is Spidey?!", asked Wanda in shock. "Direct under our nose."
"Is he really?", asked James Buchanan.
"Yes." He demonstrated his cutlery sticking from his fingers. Then he showed the suit. "But seriously, Mr. Fury, how do you know?"
"Simple, Parker. You gave a very understandable reason for your persona to decline. Your persona appeared after you left, Spider-Man is never seen when you're working.", revealed Nick Fury.
Peter had his hands in his hair, he is such an idiot. He essentially spelled out his identity. Why isn't his sense tingling? Isn't he in danger now? "W-What now?", was all he could ask.
"I may have no powers, but I can sense your nervousness. Calm down, we do not demand that you go public. I just want to offer you to joining the Avengers.", explained Nick Fury. "On terms you can choose, to some extent. What did you think to make such a big deal out of it?"
"Loosing my freedom, essentially.", admitted Peter. "Gosh, I am such an idiot. I was overthinking this way too much."
"Exactly.", said Wanda nonchalantly.
"Now, one term you have to accept is, you need to tell us how you got your powers. And if anyone else knows your identity.", chimed Coulson in. "If this is a deal breaker, we better start with it. Oh, and you have to live in the tower. Albeit we could set up a fake address for you to keep your cover."
"People who know are my aunt - my late uncle used to know, but he died a long time ago - then my friends, Nathaniel 'Ned' Leeds, Michelle 'MJ' Jones, Harry Osborne and his father.", revealed Peter. "The Osborne's know because when I started out I was terrible at hiding my identity, the same goes for MJ. I told Ned and May out of free will."
"Okay, but how do you befriended the Osborne's?", asked Tony.
"Jameson introduced them to us and Harry and I just clicked. We may or may not gave a vacuum an AI the day we met.", explained Peter.
"You made the AI vacuum that chased your uncle on TV?", asked Dr. Banner laughing.
"Yeah. Well, Harry and I."
"Why did you tell Leeds and your aunt?", asked Nick Fury.
"I was with Ned when the powers started showing. It may or may not was his idea to become a super hero. I just rolled with it because I had no idea what to do with my life.", said Peter. "And May... well, I kinda had to. One facet of my powers is an extremely fast metabolism. I needed to eat thrice as much as other teens - now five times as much, six times even on some days - this was very difficult to hide from her. I asked her to teach me how to cook, which she found suspicious after a while, especially since I asked for rather healthy stuff."
"Six times?! I thought Clint and Tony were the gluttons!"
"Hey!", complained Tony. "That's rude, Wanda. I take that you being unable to digest blood is also a facet of your powers?"
"Anyway, like I said, May was suspicious and she did notice I ate more. I couldn't lie to her, not after uncle Ben died, so I just told her. She was more accepting than I expected.", he told them. "She even worked a few extra shifts to pay for fighting and self defense classes and materials for a real suit. And after Ned moved to Asia for University, she kinda replaced him as the 'guy in the chair'."
"Does that mean she married Jameson full well knowing that he hates a part of you?", chimed Wanda in.
"Yes, but I am not mad at her, she deserves to be happy.", said Peter. "Even if it is with Jameson of all people."
"How did you get your powers?", asked Loki. "It sounded like you weren't born with them."
"Because I wasn't. A two years before Jameson introduced the Osborne's to us, my school class had a field trip at one of their labs.", explained Peter. "While there, a radioactive spider escaped and managed to bite me. Hm hm."
"What is so funny?", asked Steve Rogers.
"Oh, I just remembered, when the Osborne's, namely Norman, realized that I have my powers because of them, he apologized a lot and wanted to give me money as a sorry, that I won't sue.", explained Peter, remembering the funny memory. "I asked for a suit instead, and that they hide my identity. This is also why Harry and I got closer."
"So, that you answered our questions, does that mean you join us now?", asked Tony.
"Yes."
After that answer, the Avengers celebrated.
"Looks like we need a new cook.", said Tony.
"No, I'll continue to cook.", said Peter. "If you haven't noticed, I really like to cook."
Then after that, Peter and Nick discussed the terms. And Peter signed a contract. He was very excited about the new suit he would receive. Now he just needs to break May the news, that she will be replaced by an AI. Albeit, he'll tell her tomorrow. Today was a wild day.
Peter was shaken awake. "Tony?"
"I finished your new suit.", explained his new colleague.
Peter looked to his alarm clock. "Tony, it is four in the morning. Did you even sleep?"
"He didn't.", said a female voice. "I am Karen, your new AI." Ah, May's replacement.
"I go back to sleep, see you in a few hours."
"You're no fun."
Peter decided to go to May's and Jonah's home in civil. He needs time to think how to break the news to her. Walking though the city, he passed one of the screens broadcasting Jonah's rants. Like expected, said headache of a man was on.
'I...'
"No words, dear uncle?", whispered Peter.
'I... want to apologize to Spider-Man for all the slander I spread. Spider-Man is not a menace, I was wrong. I am sorry.'
Peter, and many other civilians, stopped in shock when they heard his apology. He then continued his way a bit faster. He has to ask what this was about.
He continued his way. Thinking about his uncle, he made the terrible realization he may need to tell Jameson as well. Like, when he is in a fight alongside the Avengers, May will be distressed seeing him fighting on the TV, Jonah will notice something is off with her. H will wonder where he, Peter Parker, is.
But can he tell him? He doesn't want to kill his aunt's marriage. Or that Jonah leaked his identity... but he apologized. Unless he didn't mean it. But if Jonah didn't mean it, why did he apologize? His slanders are a lot pf views. Revenue. On the other hand, his rants had been quite controversial, as most people realized his persona isn't a danger. Took them long enough.
He then arrived in front of his aunt's new apartment. He had to call her that she can confirm his identity, otherwise the guard at the lobby won't let him in. What a fancy complex. As soon as he stepped into the apartment, May was very excited for him to be here. Jonah then joined them in the living room.
Peter had no idea what to say. He would like to talk to May alone, but he feels like he can't tell Jonah to leave, now that he doesn't live with them anymore.
"Peter, is something wrong?", asked his aunt worried. She sees that her nephew struggles to say. "Do you need our help with something?"
"Did you loose your job-"
"Jonah!"
"I am just asking! The boy is bothered by something and won't talk. How can't you not think about that, May?", argued Jonah. "If that is the case, do not worry."
"It is not. In fact, I got a raise. I am not here to talk to you about my job.", explained Peter.
"Are you bothered to live with the Avengers? we have a room for you, just inn case.", guessed May
"I... would like to talk to May in private.", said Peter.
Jonah sighed. "Not again. Is it about you being Spider-Man?"
Peter froze. How does Jonah know? "May,", he asked coldly, "did you tell him?"
"She did not, Peter. I figured this out a while ago. I overheard you talking after the hotel burned. Albeit I was suspicious beforehand.", explained Jonah. "I always found it weird when you were tired after Spider-Man received an extra strong beating."
"I assume this is why you kept silent about me in your news?"
"Yes.", confirmed Jonah. "This is also why I apologized. Maybe you can consider me as your uncle now?"
"Aren't you taking issue with my identity? Ir dox me?"
"No!", said Jonah. "I won't! If anything, it is a funny coincidence that my nephew is Spider-Man. Now, why are you here?"
"I joined the Avengers.", said Peter.
Both had their minds blown.
"Really? Did they figure your identity out or did you tell them?", asked May. "Wait, do you still need me as your woman in the chair?"
"They figured it out. Well, the director of S.H.I.E.L.D did. Mr. Stark invited them to dinner, where they revealed my identity to the team.", explained Peter. "Mr. Stark also build me a new suit - oh boy, Harry will be insulted that i ditch the suit he and Norman made - the suit includes an AI called Karen."
He then showed the suit and showcased Karen.
"Oh! That is so awesome! I am happy for you! You ant that, right?"
"I would have rejected, if not.", said Peter. "Turns out,. we were overthinking what S.H.I.E.L.D would do, May."
"So... will you stop cooking now that you're an Avenger?", asked Jonah.
"No. I continue to cook for the team. Plus, keeping the job is a good cover for the public eye.", explained Peter, "Unlike the others, I won't go public. Albeit I would like to see Thompson's reaction."