Disclaimer: I do not own Marvel, the Savage She-Hulk or Spider- Man in any of his forms. I wish I did. I really wish they were a canon couple. Both of them are into telling terrible puns.
Trigger: This is a strange one, but I'm not doing the best right now… health-wise. I'm sorry sentences don't make much sense at all.
Warning: My emotions have run the gamut the last few weeks. Nothing terribly terrible happens in this chapter. At least, I don't think so.
Navigating the Curve
By Juliette Lyst
Don't Give Up
Part Two
Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe) Hampton Inn - Near LaGuardia Airport
September 4 th - 1AM
Why is it whenever I try to find the answer to anything, all I get are more questions? Peter grumbled from where he sat in their shared hotel room.
The walk back to the hotel with Bruce had been long and quite frustrating. Neither of them was listed as additional drivers on the rental car's insurance. They had the car towed back to the lot it was rented from.
That presented another problem. Morris would be laid up in the hospital for a few more days to recuperate. We're down a person… the young man grumbled to himself, carefully and expertly finishing some last stitches on the mask.
The person holding Jennifer still hadn't tipped their hand yet either. One thing he did know though from the previous day… is that the captor was violent and seemingly vindictive.
All they wanted was to get Jennifer back where it was safe and warm.
Peter frowned. Were they taking care of her at all? He thought of his love with a drawn expression and sunken in cheeks. Is she even being fed properly? He hoped that whoever had her had taken her condition into account. His expression darkened. The memory of his father-in-law buried came to him suddenly. If this person was so easily able to dismiss another's life as expendable… What if Jennifer loses value to them?
His insides trembled and it wasn't from the cold. Walking over to the lone mirror in the room, he pulled on his mask and observed himself. It doesn't look too bad. He smiled briefly in the mask, before sighing softly. His features grew slack, hidden behind the mask.
Staring at his costume top, he frowned and picked it up. The last time he wore it, it was very tight. He had filled out even more in his upper body from his physically demanding painting job. Looking in the mirror again, he raised and curled his right arm, his hand balling into a fist. The muscles immediately jumped to attention in the arm itself and some of the nearby tissues. He observed the tendons standing out in stark relief on his skin.
"Here goes nothing," he muttered and began pulling the costume top on again. He hadn't worn the thing in months at this point. The expected creaking came… a whisper of complaint from material being pushed past its brink. It was different this time, the pressure of the top trying to hold him in one place.
"… What are you doing so early in the morning?" Bruce asked out of nowhere.
Surprised, Peter sighed. Both of his arms were in part of the top, but he was stuck right around the shoulders. "Help me please," he replied. Thankfully, he didn't have to wait long.
Grunting just a little at the resistance, Bruce whistled. "Bit of a tight fit," he murmured, struggling and forcefully yanking down on the material.
Peter did the best he could and both of them managed to get him inside the top half of his costume.
"Ever thought about getting a bigger size?" Bruce asked, rubbing his left shoulder. It had been harder than he thought to help.
"… This fit last year," Peter replied. At least his mask fit just fine.
"What?" To his credit, Bruce at least kept his mouth from dropping open. He watched as Peter tried to move in the far-too-tight top.
Grimacing, he moved his arms again in an attempt to test the fit. The seams gave out another moan before a massive rip appeared in the top, right between his shoulder blades. Hearing it, Peter froze. "Did… did it just…" his voice trailed off.
"Ah… yeah," Bruce replied, shocked.
"Tch. I knew it," Peter grumbled, moving to pull the top off. The fabric gave up further and burst open around his biceps.
"You said that fit you last year?" Bruce asked, his voice softer.
Sighing, Peter lowered his head. He had to tear the material to get out of the top. Staring at it, he put the shredded fabric in his bag and removed his tights and gloves.
"Uhh… You're still going out?"
Shrugging off his jeans Peter nodded. "Yup. I don't have time to replace my top." Thankfully, the tights fit him with nary a hitch, along with the gloves.
Running his fingers through his hair, Bruce yawned and tried to wake up a bit more. "Need a hand?" he asked. He hadn't planned on bringing out the Big Guy tonight, but that could change.
Pausing momentarily, Peter looked at Bruce. It was tempting. Everything would be so much easier if he had the power of the Hulk with him. Unfortunately, the Hulk not only brought extra power - he also came with far too much attention.
And far too little control.
"No," Peter replied after considering his options. "I think this once, I'll have to go alone."
Frowning, but with understanding… Bruce nodded. "I'll hold down the fort," he replied.
"Thanks," Peter responded, unlocking the window and climbing out. He headed up, along the side of the hotel.
Even though he knew now that Peter was Spider-Man - it was still so shocking to see him just take off like that. Hurrying to the window, his breath hitched at the sight of Peter swinging towards the next building. Before making impact, he noted how Peter changed direction.
How is he able to do that at all? Bruce wondered, then snorted. The same could be said for him bench pressing this entire building. It most certainly was a possibility for him if he hulked out. Shaking his head, he closed the curtains to conceal the open window and turned back to their room. "Hope he stays out of sight."
Elsewhere…
Peter, on the other hand, was unworried about his current mode of travel. The breeze felt nice. He had certainly missed webswinging. He easily traveled from the hotel back to where Morris had been injured. Dropping to the ground in front of the main door, he paused a moment and lifted his head.
Seeing no one in the immediate vicinity, he ran inside the building. It was a long shot but maybe some clue was left behind. After the first half hour of searching, he began to wonder if he was looking in vain.
Then, something caught his eye. A hunk of wood, tan in color, sat amongst the debris with some very recognizable letters on it. Seeing the bright red letters 'RK INDUSTRIES', he scrambled to free the hunk from its prison. There in bright red letters, it read:
STARK INDUSTRIES
"… You have got to be kidding me," Peter muttered, his eyes wide. It couldn't be true. He thought that Tony had stopped building weapons. Are things that different in this world? he wondered. Maybe this was some remnant of the legacy of the company?
A faint clink reached his ears. Ducking down, Peter quickly crept out of the room, leaving right before the light from a flashlight shone in the there. The light revealed itself to belong to a man in a security uniform. Another man was alongside him.
"So, tell me again why we're guarding an abandoned building, Bell?" the second man asked.
"We have to keep the crime scene clean, remember?" Bell frowned. "This place is part of an ongoing investigation."
"Yeah yeah yeah," his partner replied, waving a hand. "I'd just rather be home right now in bed."
"Sleepin' ain't gonna pay the bills, Morales," Bell retorted.
Peter listened quietly to the two men as they bickered. He exhaled quietly as they reversed direction. Turning and continuing to cling to the ceiling, he continued climbing out of the building. His movements were very quiet and deliberate. Once he was on top of the building, he used his webbing to tie the hunk of wood to his back.
Running to the end of the building, he jumped and launched his webshooters, swinging out of the area. As he traveled, his expression darkened… unseen inside his mask. I guess I have another stop later today.
He would have to pay a visit to Tony. Would he even be in the same place? So far, some of the buildings he was swinging between looked pretty familiar. He had to be careful about being lulled into a very false sense of security. Often, there was something just a little off about the places and people he encountered.
Returning to the hotel in record time, he pushed past the curtain blocking the window and climbed into the room. Carefully freeing himself from the wooden board, he rested it against his bags. While I don't know where Stark is hiding out, he thought, removing his mask. Maybe I can reach out to Reed .
It was still so disorienting to know people and yet… not know them in all sense of the word. Pulling off his tights, gloves and boots, he tucked them away carefully and climbed back into bed.
Featherfall Medical Center - 8:46AM 2 nd Floor - Room 216
"… certain that it's a relic," Morris stated. He was looking at a picture Peter had taken of the wooden board.
"I'm not sure myself," the younger man replied. "The paint looked pretty fresh." He flipped over to another image. "As you can see." Morris' eyes narrowed. He was beginning to feel a sinking sensation in his stomach. When he'd received that call from Trask, he knew the mobster was somehow involved with Jennifer's disappearance, but seeing this… "He might have stockpiled this stuff." The sheriff didn't want to think about the possibility of Tony Stark being involved with this.
"Is there any way to confirm?" Peter asked. He frowned. By this point, he'd learned that sometimes the differences in the people in this universe were more than just physical appearance.
"Best bet?" Morris asked. When Peter nodded, he resumed speaking. "If you really want to know, find him."
Peter frowned. "Is he still in the same-"
"No," Morris interrupted him. The lines around his mouth deepened as he frowned. "You don't find Mister Stark," he paused a moment, seeing Peter's surprise. "You let him know you're looking for him, and he will find you."
Folding his arms, Peter lightly shook his head. That wasn't what he wanted to hear. Just what kind of man in he here? "Is," His words ground to a halt as he wondered how to frame his question.
Morris waited patiently.
"Is he Iron Man here?" Peter finally asked. He expected to hear or see something indicating agreement.
"Iron Man? No," Morris lightly shook his head. "His name here is White Crane."
White Crane? Peter wondered. "So… who's Iron Man?"
Now, it was Morris' turn to appear confused. "I don't know. Never heard of them."
Swallowing, Peter lightly scratched the back of his head. "So… how do I gain the attention of the White Crane?"
Pausing in thought, Morris was quiet for some time. "Hmm," he finally grunted, clearing his throat. "He's a fan of the media. If you mention you're looking for him and the reason… he might come and seek you out."
Peter lowered his head.
While it might work, it was exactly what he couldn't do. The more people who knew about the situation, the more dangerous it became.
Main Universe
Baxter Building - 10AM
Perched on a bar stool, Jennifer struggled to force down her breakfast. When she initially woke, she felt an intense wave of nausea and heartburn. It was aggravating - the nasty taste of acid in the back of her throat. Fortunately, she hadn't vomited that morning.
This is terrible… she mentally snarled, feeling as if her insides were turning against her. Dropping her fork down on the plate, she pushed away her half-eaten omelet and rested her forehead on the table. Sighing heavily, she waited.
Another body dropped into a seat next to her a few minutes later. "Not feeling the best?" Johnny asked, resting a hand on Jen's upper back.
All the taller woman did was groan in response. "Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked.
Sighing, Jennifer forced herself to sit up. Her features were screwed up in discomfort.
"I take that as a no?"
Folding her arms, she shook her head. "Just… need a few minutes," she finally managed.
Nodding in understanding, Johnny went to get his own breakfast.
Eyes crossed; Jennifer stared up at the ceiling. She lightly rocked where she sat, trying to make the time pass faster.
Returning to his seat, Johnny dug into a big bowl of Frosted Flakes.
Feeling bile and saliva collecting in her mouth from the smell of the milk he used, Jennifer smoothly got out of her seat and left the kitchen. The last thing she needed was to become violently ill in there.
While Jennifer returned to her room, she pinched the bridge of her nose. She hadn't heard from Jaz at all, which she supposed should be taken as a good thing. Letting out another groan, Jen continued down the hallway.
Something felt off.
A strange sensation caught her attention, and she stopped in place. Staring at her midsection, she tugged up her shirt but saw nothing out of the ordinary. The feeling of something crawling under her skin returned. Hair on the back of her neck rising, she grimaced. Is this a new symptom? She stood frozen, frightened and unwilling to acknowledge what was happening.
Yet, inside, she felt whatever it was… moving.
"Jen?" Reed asked. The scientist had been on his way to the lab. When his friend didn't reply, he glanced down to where she was looking as well. "What's wrong?" he asked again.
"It. Doesn't. Make. Sense," she finally replied, still staring at herself. Her hands were trembling.
Taking the initiative, Reed stepped over to her and gently began to guide her to the lab, lightly grasping her shoulders.
Numb and close to unaware, Jennifer just followed along, muttering under her breath the whole walk.
"What's happened?" Susan asked as soon as she saw the two of them step through the door.
Jennifer continued mumbling, not responding until Susan touched her wrists. Straightening her spine, the taller woman glared down at Susan. Her right hand continued to hold the material of her shirt up.
"Easy!" the blonde began, moving her hands away quickly. "Can you tell us what's wrong? Are you hurting?"
Before the jade powerhouse could say anything, the skin itself on her abdomen shifted. The some thing under her skin was drawing
shapes that were visible to outsiders.
Blue eyes widening, Susan shot a look at her husband.
Reed had seen that as well, and for the first time in a long time - he was completely speechless. His mouth moved, but he was unable to make a sound.
"That is not normal," Susan blurted, struggling to understand.
Jennifer paled, the trembling in her hands resuming. Her brows bunched up tightly, several lines forming between them.
"I think… we need new tests," he said after a long silence, flinching when Jennifer turned her glare to him.
Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe) Nondescript Motel - 10:46AM
"How long are you gonna be?" Mary asked, standing right outside the bathroom door.
There was a pause, then her captive spoke up. "Not much longer," Jennifer sighed soundlessly, her head hanging. She was so uncomfortable. I'm just human, she mentally griped. No matter who she could become - she wasn't her right then. Even while using the bathroom, she was expected to keep up a fast pace.
"Fine! We have to go get breakfast after this!"
Squirming where she was sitting, Jennifer grumbled, running her fingers through her hair. It was too much. Far too much. Her hands curled into fists. I wish I could just… Then, she felt her child moving. As if reminding her of the risk she ran if she tried to retaliate. "Shh… Easy Chip," she spoke, her voice soft.
Mary sat patiently on the bed, filing her nails.
Koen was dealing with their bags with Gerald right beside him. His 'friend' hadn't spoken much to him since his little slip-up. It's not like I even did anything… he told himself, easily glossing over the atrocious deeds he was behind.
Wanting to be safer than sorry, Gerald had opted to remain silent. It was just better that way.
A ping was audible on Mary's phone. Lifting it, she quickly read the message, squinting just a bit at the screen. She grabbed a notepad off the night table along with a pen and scribbled the information down. "Mister Harvey," she spoke, her voice mocking.
Swallowing hard suddenly, Koen lifted his head.
No matter what he thought about their hostage in that moment… No matter how irritated he was over being restrained…
No matter how menial the assignment… he still needed to listen and obey Mary. Their 'dame' as she was addressed - was a very demanding woman. She had already proven herself to be a powerful and dangerous individual. "Yes?" he asked quietly.
Curling one finger, the tall blonde gestured for him to walk over to her.
Grinding his teeth, Koen obeyed her instructions.
"Take this," she stated, placing the phone in his hands. "And go here." At that, she pointed to the note. "Report back here in an hour. Or less," The tall woman tried to make eye contact with him, pleased that he in turn looked at the floor near her feet. "Understood?"
For a certainty he understood, but not at all did he not want to do this. He had no clue where this place even was, but he was being sent on some wild goose chase. "Understood," he replied. There was no use arguing with her. He was given a task and he had to fulfill it. Turning to the door, he opened it and stepped outside, letting it swing closed behind him.
It wasn't until the door had closed behind him that he realized that she hadn't handed him any money for transportation. Gritting his teeth, he resumed walking.
No time to dawdle.
Curious, Gerald looked over at Mary.
The blonde met his stare and lifted one finger to her lips. The message was clear: 'Speak nothing of what you just saw.'
Nodding quickly, he redirected his focus on their bags. I saw nothing. I saw nothing. I sawnothing Isawnothing… he droned on in his mind.
Plausible deniability would be his best friend if it kept him safe. If he focused enough, he wasn't even here. Instead, he was simply on a brief assignment from home that was completely legal - and he would return none the worse for wear when they were done.
No one's in danger, he told himself.
The bathroom door opened and Jennifer stepped out. Sighing, she rested a hand on her belly. If she noticed Koen gone, she didn't acknowledge it.
"Sit and tie," Mary ordered, glancing over her shoulder. She quickly turned back to working on her nails.
Not even needing a physical motivator now, Jennifer moved to sit on the side of the bed. Grasping the rope that lay there, she tied up her own hands again. The petite brunette was becoming well trained in the fine art of being obedient and compliant.
"Gerald," Mary spoke, not looking away from her nails once.
He cleared his throat and straightened up; his internal mantra interrupted for now.
"Blindfold her, would you?" the blonde stated, brows furrowing as she tried to smooth out an uneven edge on one nail.
Gerald walked over to Jennifer. Looking at her up close, he felt even worse about what they were doing to her. "Time to close up those eyes," he managed, feeling uncomfortable at the sadness displayed plainly on her face.
Pausing a moment, Jennifer nodded silently and closed her eyes.
I'm sorry, Gerald moaned in his mind, tying the blindfold securely in place.
Once she was done filing, Mary stood and looked at Jennifer. "Good job," she murmured. To who was anyone's guess. "Now, I need you to pick up a few things," she spoke, directing her attention to Gerald again. Using the notepad, she scribbled down some instructions. Taking the note, he read it, holding back a grimace. It was all food items. From different places.
"Hurry up," Mary spoke. She extracted some bills from her bag and handed them to Gerald. "Get back here before Koen, and you get a prize."
Gulping visibly, Gerald accepted the money and left quickly. There was no prize or anything that would make him feel right about this.
Alone then, Mary turned her gaze on Jennifer.
To her credit, the smaller woman made herself as inconspicuous as she could. She wasn't fighting her bonds or speaking out. I have to keep obeying… she told herself, wanting to cry all the same.
Hampton Inn - Near LaGuardia Airport 2PM
"… eed to do this?" Bruce asked, leaning back in one of the chairs in the hotel, an apple grasped in one hand. He took a huge bite out of the fruit after speaking.
Countenance revealing none of his inner turmoil, Peter nodded. "I know what Morris said," With those words, Peter began searching through Jennifer's contact list. "But I don't like the idea at all." He didn't know much about this universe's Tony Stark, but the longer he ruminated on the man, the more uncertain he felt.
Most things and most people were only slightly off here. For some though… the differences were appalling.
"It's the only way you can get the Crane to help," Bruce replied, lightly shrugging when Peter looked at him. "I don't like the idea either," he continued. "But… what else can you do really? You need technology to find her, right?"
Swallowing hard, Peter nodded. To keep Jennifer safe, they hadn't involved the police, because he knew it would be a media frenzy. Considering what happened after Morris was injured…
"If you need it," Bruce added, screwing up his features for a moment as he tried to fish a piece of stuck apple from between his teeth with his tongue.
I need it, Peter whispered to himself. But I could put Jenny and the baby at risk…
"As I was saying," he continued. "If you need the technology, he has it. And," here, he paused, unsure.
Peter's gaze turned questioning.
"For the right price he might be able to keep the kidnappers in the dark that he's looking for them."
Goosebumps rose on his skin as he continued placing the call. Her safety for a price? There would be no clear-cut and safe scenario in any of this. They still had no idea how much money Jen's captors wanted. Is it only money? He wondered. The question made him freeze… to the extent that he nearly missed the voice on the end of the line.
ou there?" Reed asked, staring at the number on the screen. "Oh!" Peter blurted. "S… S-Sorry."
Who is it?"
Brows furrowing, Peter wondered who the other voice belonged to.
It's Peter," Reed replied, nonchalant. "What can we help you with?"
Inhaling deeply, Peter opened his mouth to speak. "I need your help," he began.
Baxter Building Lower levels 3:45PM
"This could be a suicide mission," Susan remarked, arms folded as she watched her husband suit up.
"I know, Sue," he replied.
"This is a bad idea," she continued.
Not responding, Reed lifted his eyes to his wife's face. They'd been on this topic for the last half hour. He'd told her his decision was final, that he would reach out to help their friend. If anyone else wanted to join him, they were more than welcome.
What makes you so sure that he's even there?" Susan asked. Unfolding her arms, she planted her hands on her hips.
"He and I have an understanding," Reed quipped. In truth, it was more than that, but he didn't want to get into too much detail. The weight of secrets… his eyes glanced down at the zipper to his suit, neatly pulling it into place.
"Why do you have to go by water?" she asked, dark brows creased in worry.
"You're more than welcome to see," Reed replied.
Before Susan could say anything, another voice spoke up.
"Welcome to see what?" Johnny asked, dark brows high as he peeked into the room.
"The longer we delay, the worse things might get," Reed spoke, tuning out his brother-in-law.
Biting into her bottom lip, Susan nodded then and looked away from Johnny. "We have a mission. It's Top Secret."
Reed smiled faintly as he watched his wife grab her own suit and begin pulling on the bulky material.
"Oh. Um…" Johnny frowned. 'Top Secret' wasn't a term used often with them at all. "Need a hand?"
Surprise suffused Reed's features, and he gestured to Johnny's suit. "I'll program the coordinates in where we can be dropped off."
"… Dropped off?" Johnny asked, confused. "We're not landing near our destination?"
"No,"
"Got the old girl gassed up!" Ben called from outside the room. "Anytime you're ready!"
"We're heading to Ulster," Reed added.
Johnny's mouth worked as he tried to digest that. "Umm… why are we going up there?"
"To get to the Bristol Beach State Park, of course," Reed replied.
"… of course," Johnny muttered. None of this made any sense to him. Like Susan, he began to suit up for their mission.
He didn't mention swimming to Johnny, Susan realized, her eyes widening just a little. Isn't that important to know?
"I'll meet you two upstairs," Reed commented, heading to the elevator. He was carrying one of their larger equipment cases in one hand.
Once the elevator doors closed, Johnny looked at his sister. "What's going on?"
Susan didn't speak. She couldn't go against what Reed had told her so far. She had to keep it quiet. It's best I do go with him . She'd be able to offer him better aid in person.
"C'mon, sis!" Johnny exclaimed. "Throw me a bone here!" He was scrambling to get fully into his suit, unaccustomed and not liking all of the 'unknowns'.
"If you take too long, we'll have to leave you here," she replied, moving to the elevators and waiting for one of them to come back down.
Roof
Putting the case in place, Reed squeezed himself into his seat in the MK-III and waited for Johnny and Sue. Out of all of them, Ben hadn't spent time asking too many questions. While he wasn't comfortable withholding information from his Team again, it was best for all of them. We have to get to Catskill… He thought, scrunching up his nose.
The sooner they got up in the air, the better.
"So… we're using the Fantasti-car to get to the park?" Johnny asked as he hopped into his seat.
"Yup," Reed replied. And swimming the Hudson River to get to Catskill… He struggled not to sigh out loud.
"This isn't one of those life-or-death missions, is it?" the younger man asked.
"Stop asking questions!" Susan remarked, swatting her brother on the back of the head.
"Hey!" Johnny exclaimed, grasping the back of his head. "Warning next time!"
Susan climbed into her seat and buckled up.
"Got the coordinates I sent, Ben?"
"Sure did," Ben replied, turning on the engine and beginning to get them up into the air. "We shouldn't be long."
Across Town - Nondescript Van 4:15PM
"Today's been a blast so far!" Mary exclaimed, a broad grin stretching her mouth wide as she climbed into the back of the van. Out of all the current occupants in the van, she was the only one in a pleasant mood.
Jennifer was seated off the side, her legs and hands tied in front of her. She was wincing, her stomach more than a little upset. She was becoming sick of food in all of its forms. She lightly ground her teeth together, keeping her head lowered.
Gerald was seated right next to Jen, having been assigned to 'guard' her while they were out.
Koen climbed in after Mary, but kept stealing glances over to where the smaller brunette was located.
Noticing this, Gerald maneuvered his body in the way to block their captive from view. He couldn't do much, but he could do this .
Grimacing and glaring at Gerald, Koen stiffened when Mary looked his way.
"Up near me," the blonde murmured, straightening her shoulders. Gulping, Koen hurried to do just that.
Barely glancing over her shoulder, Mary spoke up then. "Drive. Time to get back on the road."
The drivers quickly moved to do her bidding.
They'd all made a quick pit stop when Jen mentioned a need for a bathroom break.
That had been a welcome relief for the statuesque blonde as well. Being cooped up in such a small space was a nightmare on her long limbs. She'd also received a message from their boss.
It was time to head into a different part of New York.
Where she was seated, Jennifer struggled to stifle a yawn and shifted slightly to get a little more comfortable.
Noticing, Gerald lowered his voice. "Are you tired?"
Startled just a bit at hearing his voice so close, she nodded. "Yes," she murmured, her voice soft. Soon afterwards, she began to lightly snore.
Gerald scratched his head, wondering how it was possible for her to fall asleep in such short order. Then again, she is pregnant. That fact was easy for all of them to see. What he was beginning to wonder was how far along. He squeezed his eyes shut.
Such questions led to more - and he didn't need that. His conscience was already trying to beat him senseless as it was.
Sighing heavily, he opened his eyes, nearly screaming at what he saw. In the span of just seconds, the tall blonde had made her way over to the both of them. She was so close; he could see individual hairs in her lashes. "Umm…"
"Is the hostage well enough?" Mary asked. There was much for her to pay attention to and currently she was working to keep Koen as far as possible away from Jen.
Gerald nodded quickly. "Yes," he replied. "She's just sleepy is all."
Mary's mouth tightened into a thin line, but she nodded and moved away. "Keep an eye on her," she spoke in a warning tone.
Gerald nodded rapidly. He readjusted his position in the van again, moving to better block Jennifer from view.
Hudson River 1:36AM
Emerging from the water slowly, Reed glanced around in the darkness. No one was out here this time. No one, save those at work transporting cargo. Removing the mouthpiece of his rebreather temporarily, he sucked in a lungful of fresher air.
Susan appeared next to him a moment later, along with Johnny.
Susan pulled out her mouthpiece. "Are we nearly there?" she asked in an undertone.
Reed raised one brow at her words. "Almost," he replied. Looking at the dimly lit tablet in his hands, he tapped a few commands in, narrowing in on their position in the river. "Might be another hour,"
"Okay, maybe I'm new here-" Johnny interjected, treading water easily. "But wouldn't it make more sense to go by air?"
"It could," Reed responded, still looking at the screen. "If we don't want to find the person we're looking for." His expression was blank, but he was serious and it read through his tone.
Johnny's mouth closed with an audible click. He looked at Susan, a question in his gaze.
"Wait until we get there," the brunette remarked. She was curious too.
"Time to go back under," Reed stated, putting his mouthpiece back in place and tucking the tablet under his suit. He gestured for them to head forward and led the way.
Sighing, Susan put her mouthpiece back in and sunk back under the water.
Johnny followed right behind them. I hope this is all worth it… he mentally wailed. He'd never been on such a long swim before.
In the past, Reed would have told them where they were going. Then again… Johnny's brows drew down as he remembered the confusion, then the shock to see an old teammate of theirs. While it bothered him that Reed hadn't been forthcoming, he could understand doctor-patient confidentiality.
This though was next level.
Hampton Inn - Near LaGuardia Airport Sunday
September 5 th - 5:21AM
Peter was in the middle of a fitful sleep. The last few days had been a nightmare for him. He was pinned between feeling fearful and grieved. He so badly wanted his family back. The previous day, he'd had a serious discussion with Reed on the phone.
Then
"… mean exactly? Are you certain that's what you want to do?" Reed waited patiently for Peter's response. He couldn't begin to understand what the young man was going through.
Yes," Peter had stated, plainly.
What if he asks for a high price?" Reed asked, already getting out of his seat and heading to the elevators.
"… I'll pay it," Peter responded in a soft voice. Hearing those words, Reed's shoulders sagged.
Even if I have to sell myself to pay," the young man continued. "I just… I just want them back. Safe and sound. Maybe they'll let me change places with her…"
You can't risk yourself too, Peter," Reed replied, ignoring the elevator when it dinged and the doors opened. "Safe and sound for Jen won't matter if you're gone. If you want them in a good place, you need to take care of yourself too."
I… Alright," Peter spoke.
We'll be in touch Peter," Reed responded. "With the calvary."
Thank you, Reed." Peter replied, before ending the call.
Now
Sweat coated his face as he relentlessly tossed and turned in bed. Swallowing down a scream, Peter sat up abruptly, chest heaving. His latest nightmare had him half out of his mind. Climbing out of bed, he rushed to the bathroom to splash cold water on his face.
Letting his hands drop, he looked at his reflection in the small mirror over the sink. Bloodshot eyes greeted him. Memories of the nightmare he'd just clawed out of returned, and he heaved, nearly vomiting in the sink. Fortunately, he was in the right place.
Twenty minutes later, the young hero emerged from the bathroom, feeling worse for wear. He was walking back to bed when he heard a soft sound come from Jen's phone. Someone sent the phone a text message. Rushing over to it, he checked the content of the message and immediately called the number back.
Oceril - Stark Underwater Base
Not expecting a response, Reed's brows rose in surprise to have a phone call coming in. Picking up, he cleared his throat. "Hello?"
You found him?" Peter asked. He just had to be sure.
Blinking a little, Reed glanced to his left. "Call is for you," he stated, handing the phone over.
"For me?" the other man asked, surprised. His bushy red brows rose sharply over the lenses of his black shades. Still, he accepted the phone.
It's you!" Peter exclaimed, recognizing the normal lackadaisical slant to Tony Stark's voice.
"Umm… Yes," Straightening up, he tucked his left hand into his pocket. "Reed said you had a job for me?"
Johnny was standing off to the side, looking around at the structure they were currently standing in. His mouth was hanging open.
Next to him, Susan rolled her eyes. Reaching over, she pushed his jaw up, closing his mouth.
Hampton Inn
Pausing a moment, Peter swallowed. "I… I-I do."
What sort of job?" Tony asked. "For some reason, everyone's been very quiet about it all," At this, he offered a half grin to Reed.
"My…" Peter's voice trailed off. Here was the opportunity he needed, and he wasn't able to speak. He was startled to feel the phone pulled from his fingers.
"I can take over for right now," Bruce spoke, noting how pale Peter had become.
Now, the redhead's expression seemed more closed in. "Who's this?"
"Oh, friend of the family," Bruce replied. He was momentarily distracted seeing Peter wobble slightly on his feet. "Wup! No you don't!" he exclaimed, managing to keep the taller man upright.
"S… Sorry," Peter managed.
"C'mon. I need you to sit down before you fall down." Oceril
"What's wrong?" Reed asked, not liking the expression on Tony's face.
"Your friend seems to be having some problems," he replied, placing his hand over the mouthpiece before he spoke.
"Problems?" Susan asked, concern knitting her brows.
He's just not handling any of this well," Bruce spoke up then, breaking in.
"Handling what?" the redhead asked, perplexed.
His wife and child were kidnapped," Bruce replied without preamble. "He hasn't been in the right frame of mind for the last few days."
"Days?" Tony glanced at Reed. "This happened days ago? Why didn't anyone reach me before now?"
Reed's lips thinned to a line. "I just found out yesterday," Tony pulled off his shades, frowning.
"As soon as I heard, we headed right here," the blond visibly shrugged. "Communication from our end isn't too clear cut when it comes to reaching you."
Nodding lightly, Tony returned his attention to the call. "I can do that," Hampton Inn
"You will?" Bruce felt his legs weaken just a little, and he sat down. "Thank you."
Of course," Tony spoke. "Are they in the same place?" Bewildered, Bruce looked at Peter. At least the other man was still
conscious.
Mostly.
"Is who in the same place?" he asked.
Tony hesitated a moment, the desire to be snarky fighting with sympathy. Compassion won out this time. "You said his wife and child were kidnapped. Do you know if they're in the same place?"
"Oh!" Bruce exclaimed.
Peter looked over at him, unblinking.
"Yes. She's pregnant."
Pregnant?" Tony hadn't expected that one.
"A bit over five months," Peter supplied.
Moving to relay that information to Tony, he hesitated.
"Five…" Tony muttered, trying to digest that.
"I saw…" Peter spoke then, interrupting both men. "Them." Swallowing hard, paling. "In my dreams."
Oceril
Tony narrowed his eyes, hearing the interaction between both men.
They were tearing her in two…"
Feeling goosebumps rising on his flesh, the hand gripping Reed's phone shook just a little.
Who was doing what?" Bruce asked.
Jen… and my baby… They were being torn apart." Peter's voice broke, and he began to sob.
Swallowing hard, Tony blinked quickly to push away tears. "I'll do it," he spoke into the phone, his voice much softer. "No charge. Just…" he paused, biting into his bottom lip.
He was unaware of the shocked expression on Reed's face. "Just… give me the phone number when they reach out to you."
It's going to be fine, Peter!" Bruce spoke.
Hampton Inn
"It… it will?" Peter asked, tears tracking own his cheeks.
"Yes," Bruce replied, nodding firmly. "We just need to give them the number that reaches out to us when they next contact us."
"Alright." Peter responded, sitting up, resting his elbows on his thighs
head in his hands. Even though he knew what he'd seen was a nightmare, it still hurt to remember.
Before either man could say anything else, Peter's phone began ringing.
Glancing over and straightening up, Peter managed to snag his phone off the bedside table. "Huh… Morris is calling…"
One of Bruce's brows rose. Main Universe
Baxter Building - Lower Levels September 5 th - 7:58AM
Is this my life now? Jennifer rolled over on the hard bed in the lab, making sure to keep her left arm out of the way. There were various tubes coming from her IV line.
Reed was busy creating a DNA profile with what he could detect in her blood. He promised he would be able to light everything up on her next scan. She lay very still in bed - staring at her bedside clock - for a good twenty-six minutes before she began drifting off to sleep again.
Feeling a sudden dull ache in the back of her head, she flinched as a very well know, but no longer welcome voice chimed in.
You there?"
Hearing that voice, at first Jennifer didn't want to respond at all. Let her get a taste of her own medicine… A muscle in her lips twitched, and she closed her eyes.
I know you can hear me," the voice continued. "So, I'll just say what I have to and leave you be."
There were a few moments of hesitancy, something that her friend wasn't known for. Jennifer opened her eyes, frowning and staring up at the ceiling.
I was lied to. It's not just a packet," There was another paused.
I'm so sorry. I never meant to draw you into this… I hope there are no hard feelings."
Dark green brows drew down sharply. No hard feelings?
"As if that makes this any better than it is!" Jennifer snapped, breaking the silence. "You must be joking, Jazinda!" she noted, her voice sharp. "Once again you went against my wishes and put something in my body without asking," Feeling blood pounding in her ears, she snarled. "Didn't mean to draw me into what? What is it this time?!"
Oh," There was hesitance in her voice. "I thought you couldn't hear me."
"Get to the point, Jaz!" the ailing green woman responded.
Right. My superior wasn't honest about what you were given."
"Given would be something I voluntarily accepted, Jaz. You know this," she replied, annooyed.
"Who are you talking to?" Reed asked, stepped into her room. He frowned in concern, remembering what Johnny had told him recently
about how Jennifer spoke to open air.
There's someone else with you," Jazinda unnecessarily pointed out. "I'll contact you at anot-"
"Jaz, if you don't explain to me right now what you've done, I'll carve your little science experiment out of my body with my bare hands."
No expecting that, Reed took a step back.
There was a quick rush of breath. "Calm down, Jen-"
"You don't tell me what to do!" Jennifer barked; her eyes narrowed to slits.
Jennif-"
"I am currently laid up in a hospital bed with tubes all over me from your little stunt," she continued, outrage audible in her tone. "I have been poked, prodded and had probes shoved into places they shouldn't be."
I understand."
"No, Jaz," she replied with a snort. "You really don't."
You're right, I don't. I'm angry myself about what happened."
A litany of furious words danced on the tip of Jen's tongue, but she swallowed them down. "What," she struggled to push down the anger for the time being. "What exactly happened?"
"How are you able to-" Reed began to ask.
Lightly waving her hand at his question, Jennifer pointed to the side of her head.
It was supposed to be a DNA packet, but it is actually a prototype."
"For…?" she drawled. What is taking her so long to answer a simple question?!
Some new genetically programmed symbiote. It's supposed to be able to control the host-"
"Wait," Jen interrupted, feeling it when her headache suddenly increased.
Symbiote?
Host?
"What have you done to me, Jaz?" she asked, sounding worn down.
Yours was one of the prototypes, so it went unprogrammed beforehand."
"One of them? How many others are there?" Swallowing hard, she frowned. "And how am I supposed to get it out of me?"
Out of the other ones? Oh, there have been several, but you're the only one to live so long. The prototypes weren't programmed because the hosts weren't expected to survive."
Feeling chilled, Jennifer turned her gaze to Reed. "The other 'hosts'… Died?"
Reed's eyes widened.
Yeah. They're meant to be biological weapons. Hosts typically died after the symbiote 'linked up' fully. The other hosts weren't as powerful as you," her voice trailed off. "I'm so sorry you were dragged into this."
"I'm supposed to be dead," Jennifer choked out, paling. "Is that why I'm so sick?"
No way to tell. You're the first to come so far."
"So, the reason I'm so nauseous and weak is because I'm dying," she continued. "And it is because of what you did."
Nausea?" Jaz sounded confused. "That's not what happens to the hosts…"
Leaning up on an elbow, Jennifer pressed her fingers to her temple. "Not what… you know more than a little about this project, Jazinda…" When Jennifer turned her gaze to Reed again, she saw how he recoiled. She had no way to know how red her eyes looked.
It's not what you-"
"I'm a licensed attorney, Jaz. Being able to hear all of what's being said is part of the job." Lying back down on the bed, she glanced to Reed. "It's just a waste of t-Ung!" Stiffening up, her arms wrapped around her midsection.
"Jen!" Reed called, racing over and slamming his fist into the emergency beacon installed in the room.
The alarm system began screaming through the upper levels of the building, a trail of blue lights indicating where the crisis was.
"H-Hurts!" she gasped; her eyes wide.
Jen?!"
"M-Make it stop!" the tall woman shrieked, back arching off the bed.
Reed struggled to intervene, to keep her from damaging her IV line and from breaking the bed. "Jen!" he called. "Stop!" The needles currently embedded in her skin were adamantium. If they were pushed any further, the results could be disastrous for her.
Ben rushed into the room first. "Reed?!"
Glancing over his shoulder, the scientist waved the other man over. "Hold her down!"
"No!" she howled. She was physically resisting Reed as the older man tried to keep her still. Everything stung, her body finding it taxing to cope.
Ben was struck with indecision.
Inside, it was as if her organs were painfully rearranging themselves. She'd never experienced anything like it before. "P-Please!" Her vision grew blurry with tears. "Help me!"
"Ben!" Reed called again. "She'll rip her line! Hold her down!"
Moving quickly, Ben did his best to restrain Jen in the bed. "Hold on, Shulkie!"
She let out a guttural wail.
Ben held his breath, concerned he was about to be hurled across the room.
Reed quickly overrode the commands on the IV pump, sending a much larger than normal dose of painkiller straight into Jennifer's vein.
The fight quickly ended with the jade giantess losing consciousness. Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe)
Abandoned Warehouse - 8:32AM
"Go sit her down back there," Mary spoke, in a singsong voice. "We're fishing with live bait today."
The building was in shambles, full of broken-down pallets and torn up fabrics. There was a pool of water on the floor, dripping from some unknown source above. Graffiti of varying ages covered the walls and most of the windows had been busted. There was no working light in the building at all.
Jennifer was guided to a spot behind a stack of old wooden crates. "Right here," Gerald spoke softly. He made sure there were some
burlap sacks for her to sit on.
"Thank you," she whispered.
"… e going to get the correct instructions. Stay right here, will you?" Mary's voice drifted over. She sounded distracted and annoyed for some reason.
Gerald heard her, but kept his back turned. He assumed the dame was speaking to him. "I can take off the blindfold for a little bit for you too," he spoke gently. It bothered him. All of this.
Feeling the material removed from her eyes, she offered Gerald a very faint smile. "Thank you. You don't have to do all of this." "I know," he replied, frowning. "But I…" Sighing, he lowered his head for a moment. "It's not right what's being done here."
"Then why-" Jennifer's voice trailed off, her brown eyes widening in horror.
Alerted, Gerald spun around, narrowly avoiding a blow to the head from the wooden board Koen was holding. "What are you doing?!"
"Oh! Now you want to speak to me!" Koen hollered. He swung the board again.
Gerald ducked down low and fully tackled Koen, pushing the man far away from where Jennifer was. "You heard Mary!" Gerald yelled, suddenly finding himself wrestling against a man he'd once called one of his closest friends. Working on this assignment had revealed aspects of Koen's personality that he found intolerable.
Shivering and frightened, Jennifer struggled to untie her hands. Pulling further behind the crates, she tried to use her teeth, but she wasn't able to cut through the thick material. There is one way to get out of this…
Chilled, she whimpered, hearing the skuttle of feet behind her. Please… Feeling a tear run down her cheek, she mentally reached into that deep part of herself inside where the She-Hulk was… and began to pull the barriers down. Will I die? she wondered, green light glowing from her eyes.
A nagging ache blossomed in the back of her head, but she pushed on… feeling it only increasing in severity. She gasped in agony as her organs shifted and moved around… all of her organs.
Sweat broke out on her forehead and ran in rivulets down her back. Jennifer was only able to spare a short thought of worry for her child as her body continued to grow in size, muscles rolling in… until she tore through the ropes around her wrists.
Her shirt was stretched to its limit, while the material around her ankles, calves and thighs ripped open. Her shoes burst open around her feet-falling off, and she kicked off her socks. Trembling, she panted, trying to properly orient herself.
Gerald let out a groan as Koen got the upper hand, knocking him unconscious.
"Now then," Koen spoke, as he approached the stack of crates. "That we're alone now…" his words trailed off as he watched not the small, fragile woman rise from behind that old pile of wood, but… "What are you?" Green filled his entire view.
Rising to her full height, her eyes narrowed to slits, Jennifer stared down at Koen. "What's the matter, little man?" she asked, in a husky voice. Watching him pale made her feel very good . "I thought you wanted to be alone?" Her full lips twitched. "Right?" Her long hair was slick with sweat, and she flicked one wet lock off her forehead.
Backing up, Koen quickly shook his head. "No, t-that's not what I meant!" The entire time, he was trying to figure out where this woman had come from. Is the hostage still there? It didn't make any sense at all.
He was so shocked that he didn't put one and one together.
Momentarily, Jennifer was distracted by seeing Gerald lying motionless on the cold, damp ground. Her expression became pained. He'd been hurt, possibly killed.
Trying to save her.
It was brief, but long enough for Koen to do something profoundly stupid. Taking advantage of her being preoccupied, he grasped another hunk of wood and swung it at her.
She didn't again stop after that, not after feeling the wooden hunk he held, which shattered into splinters after coming into contact with her body. She turned to him. "You-" she growled, her lip lifting up on the right into a snarl.
Dropping the wooden piece, Koen stepped backwards, slipping in a puddle and falling hard. Thankfully, he didn't knock himself unconscious. He was beginning to realize the error of his ways - too late.
Jennifer descended right on top of him.
"Please!" the frightened man cried, tearing up. He began shaking, struggling to scoot away from her.
Jennifer's movements were deliberately slow. This man had hated her ever since he first met her. He had made her feel like weak, defenseless prey. When he couldn't get what he wanted, he resorted easily to violence. "Give me a reason…" she hissed, grasping him by the front of his shirt. She dragged him closer, locking eyes with him.
Now who was hunting who ?
He whimpered, staring into the larger woman's green eyes, feeling her hot breath on his face. It was reminiscent of what Mary had done to him days prior, but… this wasn't Mary. No. The woman facing at him was vastly different from the dame.
Outside
Mary grumbled, having searched through the entire van. She had Trask's instructions somewhere . "Where are they?" It irritated her to think about what might happen without proper instruction.
Nick had been clear when he spoke with her. Their communication was supposed to be limited to the bare minimum.
"Is it possible?" Worried, she gnawed on her bottom lip. Had she left them behind at the last motel they'd been in? That wouldn't fare well… for her or Nick. Somehow though, she knew the man would find a way to slip himself out of culpability. Is that why he had me change the phones?
She'd been told to leave the previous phone with a man at the location she'd sent Koen to. He had returned with a brand-new phone.
Their last contact had been through a call from her motel room. That slimy eel… She thought, with growing anger. Was he setting her up to take the fall for all of this? Is that why they kept running around in circles with Jennifer?
Blowing out a breath, she emerged from inside the van. She was grasping her phone in her left hand.
"Stop right there!"
Hearing an unfamiliar voice, Mary looked abruptly to her left. Her mouth dropped open, eyes widening in shock.
Standing less than twenty feet from her was a man she'd heard was dead. Long dead. Swallowing hard, she fully turned to face him. It can't be!
"Good. You really do listen when told." Peter remarked, arms folded.
Bristling, Mary balled up her right hand into a fist. "I won't be intimidated," she replied, staring into his masked face. "Some poor pathetic imposter." Straightening up to her full height, she dismissed him. "What happened? Too poor to buy the full costume?" At this, she was bringing attention to his lack of a costume top.
"You have a big mouth," Peter replied, before unfolding his arms. Activating his webshooters, he quickly snatched the phone right out of her hand and yanked it over to himself. Catching it, he tossed it overhead.
Only for the human torch to fly past a split second later and snatch it out of the air.
Stupefied, Mary felt the tendrils of fear take hold. No no no! she mentally squawked. He's dead… Dead… "It's not real," she blurted out.
Lightly shaking his head, Peter readied his webshooters again. "No! It's not real!" the blonde yelled, trying to rush him.
Peter easily maneuvered around her. "I assure you," he responded. "That I am very real."
"No," Trying to recover her wits, she lunged at him again. "You're dead!"
All for Peter to easily jump over her head. This time when he landed, he twisted sharply and launched both webshooters at her. His webbing caught and held on. He raced and leapt around Mary, in a dizzying display of athleticism.
Tied up and unable to move, Mary had to face reality. No! I'm strong! I'm stronger than him! All the while, she struggled to free herself. All she managed to do was lose her balance and fall on the ground. She saw his red boots as he stepped over to her.
"I'll ask this one time," he began. "Where is she?" It was difficult for him to remain as calm as he was, when dealing with one of the people behind his wife's disappearance.
Mary was about to respond when a loud scream came from inside the warehouse. Her hair stood on end. What was…
Muscle jumping in his jaw, Peter turned to the source of the sound. "Wait…"
Hearing Mary's voice, he glanced down at her.
"No. What did I do?" Mary questioned herself. She'd just made a big mistake. How could I forget so easily?!
"Do?" Peter prompted.
"She's trapped in there with him!" Mary screamed, trying to pull herself free of the webbing. The blonde was berating herself. She'd been so concerned about losing track of the instructions Nicholas gave them that she forgot about the problem between Koen and Jen.
Without asking any questions, Peter turned and sprinted right for the entrance to the warehouse, only to pull up short at seeing a large body making its way towards the door from inside. Jen? His spider senses weren't going haywire.
Still, he took a few steps backwards.
Sure enough, Jennifer stepped out of the front door, Gerald's unconscious body slung over her shoulder.
"Jenny?!" Peter exclaimed, shocked to see her as the She-Hulk. He didn't miss how her eyes were nearly closed.
"Hey webhead," she replied, a wobbly smile in place. She carefully lowered Gerald to the ground. "You're a sight for sore eyes." The green giantess grinned, pulling him close.
"Miss you too Je-" Peter's words were cut off as she lifted the bottom part of his mask and kissed him fiercely.
"Mmm," she purred, feeling happy despite the headache. "It's really been far too long." Jennifer added, lightly biting into her bottom lip.
"Hmm," Peter hummed in response. He pulled her into another kiss.
"You could transform," Mary spoke, interrupting them. "But you didn't. Why?" the tall woman was trying to free herself still.
"I needed a bit of motivation, Skeeter," A wide smirk stretched across Jen's mouth at the sudden rage on Mary's face. "I don't appreciate the treatment you subjected me and Chip to."
"Jen," Peter broke in, a thought occurring to him. "You couldn't eas - Is… Is Chip…?"
Redirecting her attention to her husband's masked face, she graced him with a smile. "She's fine, Pete," she paused and inhaled sharply. "Kicking around like crazy right now."
"Good," he replied. Turning and walking over to Mary, Peter dropped to one knee in front of her. "It's very fortunate for you, Titania… that my wife and child are unharmed," Peter tilted his head, the tight, thin line of his mouth hinting at the anger he felt. He easily recognized the villainess from his own universe. She'd never done something so foul where he was from.
"Wife and child?" Mary asked, confused. Realization trickled in and her eyes darted to Jennifer at first and then to him. "Wife of… S- Spider-Man?" she asked, an expression of terror suffusing her features.
Jen rested a hand on her mostly flat belly and lightly waved at Mary.
Eyes growing even wider, Mary felt herself growing faint. I never should have left pris… The world suddenly grew dark, and Mary lost consciousness.
Startled to see the woman suddenly going limp, he checked to make sure she hadn't died. No… death is too good for her.
A familiar shadow appeared over him. "Ready to take her to jail."
"Strange," Ben remarked, stooping down to pick up the blonde. "Would have thought she was in max security."
"She was in Pym's prison," Reed remarked, walking over to them.
"I never thought I'd have the pleasure," another voice chimed in. A man, clad in a sparkling white metallic suit walked over to the three men.
Curiously, Peter's brow rose - hidden under his mask.
Walking over to her husband, Jen lightly wrapped her arm around Peter's shoulders. "Could say the same, Tony," she spoke, easily recognizing him by his signature suit.
Peter blinked. So… the White Crane's suit was… a glistening white version of Iron Man's…
"Gerald needs medical attention," she added. Clarifying, she pointed over her shoulder with her thumb to the man lying on the ground.
"I see," the White Crane replied, gesturing to the fallen man. Seemingly out of thin air, three masked men came and picked him up.
"Also," she continued. "Koen is still in the warehouse."
"He's injured too, Jen?" Peter asked, turning and looking up at her. "He might need a hospital," she replied. "Or a body b-" her words
trailed off. Suddenly, the tall woman felt as if she were underwater. Her vision first doubled… then blurred.
Jen felt like she'd lost control of her limbs. Her whole body.
"Jen?" Peter asked, feeling her arm grow slack over his shoulders. Worryingly, he saw how her face had suddenly grown slack.
She was able to hear him, but it was so muffled. Everything started sounding distorted. In contrast, her breathing was so unbelievably clear and loud in her own ears.
Wrapping his arms around her waist, Peter turned to look at the others. "I need help!" he called. "We need to get her to a hospital."
"What happened to her?" Johnny asked, worried.
"I think she's having a seizure," Reed replied, walking over to her and waving a hand in front of her face. Sure enough, Jennifer's gaze remained locked forward.
"I'll get her there," Tony spoke, walking over to them. Reaching out, he gently took Jennifer in his arms. Glancing skywards, he activated the jets in his boots and lifted off into the air.
"I'm following them," Peter uttered before launching his webs.
"We'll get blondie here back behind bars," Ben remarked. Looking up, he watched as Peter swiftly followed after the White Crane.
The Next Day
Noon
Paradise Grove Hospital - Room No. 85
When awareness returned to her, Jennifer found herself staring up at bright lights on a white ceiling. Scowling, she narrowed her eyes to slits. What? The surface she was lying on was comfortable, the sheets soft against her skin. That was different. Where…? she wondered, an ache beginning to form in the back of her head.
Unaware, Peter was seated in a chair next to her bed, grasping her larger left hand between his own. He continued to stare, almost blankly, at the door. He'd been asked to rest or at least eat. So far, he'd rejected both suggestions. He didn't want to risk leaving her side. She'll be so scared to wake up alone.
It didn't matter if it took a day, a week or even a month - he was determined to stay by her side.
Until he couldn't anymore.
"I hope you wake up soon, sweetie," he murmured in a soft voice.
The sound jarred Jen out of the painful carousel she found herself on.
"No rush, but I just want to make sure you're alright," his shoulders sagged.
If not for the swiftly forming headache, Jennifer would have spoken sooner. As it was, her jaw worked, but no sound came.
"This was all my fault," Lifting their hands, he kissed the back of hers. "If I had been faster, you wouldn't have needed to change."
Slowly, memories were beginning to filter in. The wretched expression on her face gradually grew slack as she carefully picked through remnants of what she last remembered.
"If you're wondering," he continued, "Chip is just fine. Just bouncing away and dancing in there now. We were so worried because she was so still earlier, but the doctor said it was from the shock."
Ah, now I remember, she thought, her features pinching just a little. She remembered feeling as if her life was at risk, forcing herself to change… the intense worry when she felt her organs shifting around. Followed by the searing agony of feeling her body being torn apart.
Feeling weak and quivering, she'd needed a moment to gather herself. Unfortunately, her assailant had come and she immediately had to defend herself.
"I was so scared Jen," he spoke, his voice wobbly. "Yeah," she rasped, her mouth dry.
Lifting his head, Peter's mouth dropped open. "You're awake!" He moved to extract his fingers and was surprised when she held him
tight. "Don't worry," he began, "I'm just going to let the doctor know-"
"No," she interrupted him. "I need you here," she continued, her eyes misting over. "With me. Please climb up here."
"Jen, you just had a seizure," he explained calmly. "It's not a good idea for me to get on the bed with you. You need your rest,"
"… What I need, Pete," she responded, tugging on his hand. When he conceded and climbed into bed with her, a weak smile crossed her lips. "Is you." Swallowing hard, she reached up with her right hand, tracing the outline of his jaw. "You're really here…"
Nodding faintly, he leaned closer and kissed her cheek. Observing her carefully, he noticed that she seemed to be in pain, a slight grimace in place. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," she whispered, squinting still.
Loosening his hold, Peter leaned up on the bed, looking down at his wife. "If it's the bright lights-"
"It is," she responded in a rush.
"I have it," he spoke, moving to get up.
"No… Don't go," she whimpered, her breathing panicky.
"Just to the light. Hold on, Jenny!"
Even the brief loss of contact was proving to be difficult for her to deal with. Her features crumpled up before Peter was halfway across the room. He flicked off the light, plunging the room into semi- darkness. After that, he pulled the curtains near the door over it to provide a bit more privacy.
When he returned, he climbed back into bed with her. "Better?" Not speaking, she reached for him.
Lobby - 30 Minutes Later
"It's amazing, truly. She seems to have come out without any lasting damage," the doctor said, his dark brows lifting as he spoke with her family.
"What triggered the seizure?" Bruce asked, pressing.
Keeping his mouth closed, Morris stared at his wrapped leg. He hated being sidelined like this, wanted to be able to do more.
"We're not entirely sure," he responded kindly. "I have been in contact with a… friend?" his voice trailed off in question. He remembered how odd it felt to have a member of the Fantastic Four reach out to him. "Or her friend?" he continued, seeing Bruce's confused stare. "He'll also examine her when he gets here."
"What's his name?" Morris asked, his voice uncharacteristically soft.
Swallowing, the doctor checked his notes. "Says his name is Reed Richards," he paused. Didn't all these super hero types know each other? He was beginning to wonder that. Then again, his patient's father seemed to be a normal human. Her other male relative seemed so too. Still, the doctor remained leery.
"Reed is a good man," Bruce supplied, looking to his uncle. "He's thorough,"
"I see," Morris replied, his features drawn. "Do you think he can fix her?" he asked, his voice cracking.
Offering a reassuring smile, Bruce nodded. "Yes… but I wouldn't say she's broken," at that, he paused in thought. "Just dealing with some problems."
"That's true," Morris replied. "She's very stubborn," he added. Looking to the doctor, the older man nodded faintly. "Thank you so much for keeping us up to date."
A small smile crossed the doctor's mouth. "It's a pleasure," he replied. "It's not every day that I encounter a patient like your daughter, sir,"
Morris lifted his eyes further, sadness visible in their depths.
Other responses stymied; Doctor Lobos opted for a different reply. "We'll do the best we can,"
It didn't matter if one's adult child was a powerhouse like her or just an ordinary person. At the end of the day, they were still a child… to their parents.
Parents want to protect their children.
"And the baby is fine?" Morris asked. The older man had already voiced the question about five times already. He knew his daughter was tough and strong… But his grandchild…
"Yes," the doctor replied. He didn't mind repeating his answers. He could tell the older man was working through something.
Bruce rested a hand on Morris' left shoulder and lightly squeezed. "It'll be fine. She's a fighter, just like Jenny," Raising his voice, he turned his attention to the doctor. "When can we go in to see her?"
"One moment," he replied. Flagging down a nurse, he offered a small smile. "Please check on Missus Parker, because her family is here to visit."
"Alright," the nurse replied, offering the family a faint smile. "She has a visitor already,"
"Who?" Morris asked, before pausing a moment. He knew exactly who would be there.
"Her husband," the nurse added. He looked to the doctor, an expression of concern in place. "He's been here overnight,"
"All night?" Bruce asked, frowning. "He slept though, right?"
Glancing to Bruce, the nurse shook his head. "No," Redirecting his focus to the doctor, he cleared his throat. "I'll go check. Maybe he'll be willing to eat?" Based on his previous interactions with Mister Parker though - he doubted that.
After the physician nodded and handed over Jennifer's medical
chart, the nurse left. "We'll find out in a few minutes, but there should be no reason that both of you can't visit her."
"Is she awake?" Bruce asked.
Lips twisting a bit then, the doctor shook his head. "We didn't see any indicators of a bleed in the brain, so she shouldn't be unconscious," his frown deepened.
"Maybe she just needs to heal?" Morris suggested.
Bruce looked worried. She's a hulk… Things like this shouldn't happen.
Outside Room No. 85
"Hopefully today will be a bit brighter," the nurse mumbled under his breath. Checking the chart again, he made sure he had the correct room before opening the door. Not wanting to startled his patient's husband, he didn't speak immediately. He was surprised to see the curtain blocking the door. I guess he finally went to sleep? The lights had been turned off as well.
Still, he needed to get updated vitals on Missus Parker. He just had to be careful not to wake up her husband.
Nothing could have prepared him for what he saw when he peeked around the curtain.
He was aware of a strange sound in the room first, then saw Missus Parker.
His patient was awake alright, but currently all he could see was the bare skin of her back, hospital sheets pooled at her waist. Muscles and tendons rippled under emerald-green flesh, visible evidence of the sheer power at her disposal.
She tossed her head back momentarily, long, sodden locks flicking over shoulders glistening from perspiration.
"I-I can't… Pete… Please…" she whimpered, voice quivering.
Nearly swallowing his tongue, the nurse's eyes widened when he saw Mister Parker's hands reach around to tightly grip her hips.
"Again?" he asked. "Already?"
Blushing bright red-mortified that he'd walked in on something very private, the nurse stepped backwards and out the door, but not before seeing Missus Parker's hands frantically grasp her husband's wrists.
Quietly closing the door behind him, he was able to hear a heavy, muffled cry from inside the room.
Face still red and only deepening in color, the nurse began the arduous trip back to where the doctor and the patient's family were waiting. While it was good that the patient was awake now, her current state…
By the time he reached the physician and her family, the flush on his face had thankfully receded. Still, he struggled to hold in a whimper when he had to hand over the chart.
"No update?" the doctor asked.
Memories of what he'd seen and heard returned and the nurse's face began to burn again. "P… Patient's awake," he managed.
Concerned, Morris leaned forward in his wheelchair.
Bruce's eyes narrowed.
"So why weren't you able to get her vitals?" the doctor asked, drolly. Noticing the expression on his nurse's face, he paled slightly. "Er…" Maybe it was better they not know. "Ah-"
"S… S…" the nurse was really struggling. He couldn't look at his patient's family right then. Slapping a hand over his eyes, he finally finished his statement. "She's o-o-occupied right now!"
"Occupied?" Bruce asked, brows shooting up.
"You mean busy?" the doctor asked. Now, he was beginning to blush too.
"I have to get back to my other patients right now!" the nurse exclaimed, much louder than he should have. Uncovering his eyes, he spun around and sprinted down the hallway he'd come from.
That, unfortunately left the doctor alone with the rest of his patient's family members.
"What did he mean 'occupied?'" Bruce asked.
Why is this my life? Doctor Lobos wondered, his face reddening further. Looking at both men, he sighed and lowered his head.
Main Universe 1PM Maastricht
A lone woman stood, looking over the bridge to the water below. She was wrapped from head to toe in black. She folded her arms,
peering from underneath the dark hood of her jacket. It's so peaceful here… she thought. Faintly, she grimaced.
It had been nice when she first arrived here, but now she knew… something was wrong. She didn't feel well at all.
"Miss?" a male voice called.
Glancing over her shoulder, she recognized the face of her caretaker. "Mn. Yes?"
The man smiled, holding his hat in place as he nodded. "Come Miss," he asked. "It's past time for the midday meal."
She nodded faintly, looking longingly at the water and following him. A few pale stands of hair were visible. "Yes," she replied, blue eyes twinkling in the light as she glanced behind herself briefly. "Coming."
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: Hi all! Sorry for the delay. I've been dealing with some very frustrating medical issues, and I'm on additional medication that makes me very disoriented upon waking. If and when I can actually sleep…
I'm also adapting to new glasses still, so my vision is not quite the best. I've done my best to catch typos.
I was hoping to have this chapter out sooner. I had the bottom half of this chapter written weeks ago.
Heh. Bottom.
I also teased the idea of just dumping off this story… but I really fell in love with the characters and the story itself. So, I want to try to keep going until the story is over. I have a large hunk of the ending written.
Just have to get there.
Thank you so much for being patient with me!
~J Lyst
Additional Note: This is an updated and revised version of the original chapter. Expect more edits soon! The date for this revision is September 30,2023. Please be patient. I'm trying to figure out three additional chapters for this fic.
Yes. Three .
Author's Additional Note: Okay… done what I think is the last needed revision for this story. It wasn't much at all, thankfully. I even found an error where I didn't note one was.
I might be delirious at this point… It's like 5 in the morning. I've been up all night. The date for this revision was December 11, 2023.
It might not have been stated before, but I can note it here. After Chapter 4 and Chapter 6, there are brand new chapters… squeezed all nice and snug between them. Which is why this chapter is now #20 instead of #18.
Trying to satisfy the desires of my readers too. And as I stagger through page 50 of this fic, I do declare…
Thank you for stopping by! Come back for more soon!
Author's Additional Extra Note: Revisions done. Edits including. Hoping it's coherent. Date of this revision is January 16, 2024.