Disclaimer: Meep Meep Meep. Beep Beep. Tweet. Nothing from Marvel is mine. I did not create Spider-Man or the She-Hulk. Although I wish I had. That would have been so cool!
Trigger: If you deal with anxiety or PTSD and/or are easily triggered, please be careful near the middle… If you can, just skip over the "flashback" sequence. It begins with "… Then" and ends with "… Now".
Warning: I cried, though that could be from all of the sleep deprivation.
Navigating the Curve
By Juliette Lyst
I Want You
Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe) August 18th, Wednesday
Jen's Apartment - 6pm
He was worried. How could he not be? Sitting quietly as Jen napped on the couch, Peter had time to consider the ramifications of what they needed to do. Reed and the rest of the Fantastic Four had promised to come back the very next day. Once determining that Jennifer was stable for the time being, they still had to aid her in returning to her previous state.
Have to… Does it have to be so soon? He glanced down at Jennifer's slumbering form, her head resting in his lap. Her long legs went over the arm of the couch and were touching the floor. She was sleeping on her back, which was something Peter was concerned over.
He remembered reading in one of their books about the risk with her sleeping on her back at a certain point in the pregnancy.
Reed had assured him though that for the time being… wherever and however she felt comfortable enough to sleep, she could sleep. Reed further informed Peter that her unique physiology allowed her a few protections. Jennifer was packed full of gamma radiation, which not only enhanced her strength, it also increased the integrity of her skin and reinforced all of her organs.
Even so, her body had made some significant concessions for their baby. While her abdominal muscles were normally very taut and defined, they had slacked just enough to let Chip have room.
Through additional scans, they found out that the baby hadn't followed her in transforming at all or been negatively effected by the change in its environment.
Which led to more questions than not.
"How am I supposed to feel about this?" he asked to no one in particular. The entire situation was upsetting to him. He was pinned between two extremes, disbelief and disappointment. Why didn't Jen at least warn him that she was in danger due to the pregnancy? He would have been ready for her transformation earlier in the day. Did she not trust what he would do or say?
For all intents and purposes, the very act of becoming the She-Hulk should have caused her heart to stop…
Yet, she had survived.
Carefully sliding from under her head - setting a pillow in place, Peter sat on the floor in front of the couch and allowed himself to relax. He didn't feel right taking any space from her at all. And she needed a lot of space. What could have happened…
Leaning back with his head touching her side, Peter exhaled heavily.
Feeling a large hand rest on his head a few minutes later would have terrified him under normal circumstances. Instead, he merely looked up, seeing green fingers and nails. He heard her clearing her throat and waited patiently. It was difficult for her to wake up in the evening under normal circumstances after a nap.
Now?
They were in strange territory.
"Mmm… Any reason you're down there, Pete?" she asked. Her voice was huskier than normal from sleep.
Grasping her hand, he kissed her wrist. "You need rest… lots of sleep, remember?"
"I know," she replied. Shifting, she grunted softly. "It would be better if I wasn't here though."
Smoothly rising to his feet, Peter moved to help her sit up. "Then, we need to head back into the bedroom, right?"
Yawning in response, Jennifer rose to her feet and followed Peter's guidance, one hand on his shoulder. "Mmng," she muttered.
"I know," he responded. When they reached her bed, he lightly tapped her left leg. "Bed is right beside you."
"Nn… W-Wait," she spoke. Her features tensed for a moment. "Jen?"
"Need to pee," she finally replied, yawning again.
Snorting softly, Peter helped her redirect herself.
Ten Minutes Later…
Nodding, Jennifer sat down with minimal assistance on the bed.
"There we go," he breathed, relieved to have completed the trip easily.
"Thanks," Jen offered him a slight smile.
"Anything else you need, Jenny?" he asked.
"Yeah Pete," she replied. She bit her bottom lip, suddenly shy.
"What's that?" He figured that it was a specific food. That was usually the solution.
"You," she said, reaching up for him.
Joining her on the bed, Peter cuddled up close. "I love you, Jen," He felt it when she registered his words, her spine stiffening briefly. Then, she melted in his arms.
"I love you too, webhead," she replied, pressing a kiss to his forehead.
The companionable silence between them lasted for another hour. Eventually, Jennifer pulled away and laid back on the bed. "I'm sorry, Peter," she said. "I hope you're not angry with me."
Frowning, he looked down at her, grasping one of her hands. "No, sweetheart. I'm just… a little confused is all."
Her words - or lack thereof - had led them to this strange point in time.
"I…" she began, her tongue suddenly feeling thick in her mouth. She knew what he was referring to, and it didn't make her feel well at all. Jen was worried - rightly so - that her news would be upsetting to him. I didn't know he would be this agitated. "I-I know," she continued. "I should have been honest from the start."
She turned her head away from him.
Peter lightly squeezed her hand, letting her feel the physical manifestation of his support. "I just want to know… why?" It was difficult to read her expressions, especially with the mask in place. "Despite everything… I'm still here Jen," he added.
Swallowing hard, she turned to him and freeing her hand, moved to remove her shades.
"Jen-"
"No," she interrupted him. "I want to look in your eyes," she continued. "I want you to understand."
"I'll turn the lights down low,"
"Yes… Thank you," she replied. Jennifer knew it would hurt, her features tensing in anticipation.
When Peter returned to her, he reached out to grasp her shades. "Let me,"
She tried to steady her breathing as he pulled off her sunglasses, then gently raised the eye mask she was wearing. When his face came into view, the biggest smile crossed her mouth.
In reflex Peter smiled back at her.
"It's my fault I didn't say anything sooner," she began. "I just… I remembered how Peter took the news and -"
"Worried that I would do the same," he added, cutting her off. "Jennifer," he began, drawing in a deep breath. "You should know that I'm not the same as him by now." A pang of indecision hit, and he suddenly felt unsure. "Right?"
Looking at the ceiling and blinking rapidly, Jennifer nodded. "I'm sorry, Peter," she replied, her voice cracking slightly. "The wounds are still so raw," Pausing, she licked her lips. "I wanted to make sure that there was no risk… and that wasn't fair to you."
His features became more pinched, and he rested a hand on her belly. "Jen…"
"He told me to get rid of her," she continued, her face beginning to crumple up. "He told me I was on my own. He didn't care that carrying his baby could kill me - that I was willing to take the risk because I loved the idea of having his child." Sniffling, she continued speaking. "He started sending me terrible messages - taunting me - trying to provoke a violent reaction out of me." Jennifer chanced a glance at Peter after a long stretch of silence.
His hazel eyes were wide with shock. He hadn't known how severe her exchanges with his alternate counterpart had been. Thinking about it made him feel a bit sick.
"I don't think he was ready to be a father," she added, knowing it might sound like she was excusing his behavior. "He -"
Peter placed a finger over her lips to silence her. "Sometimes…" he began, a spark of fury audible in his voice. "I wish my timing was better. I'm always running late." Noting confusion in Jen's gaze, he elaborated. "If I'd been here, he wouldn't have had the chance to peacefully die at all Jen," He was physically grinding his teeth. "He got off easy."
"Pete -"
"No," he shook his head. "He didn't know what he was giving up." A sudden thought came… a realization, and he grimaced. "… And I'm about to take on the identity of that slug…"
Jennifer frowned in turn. "You may take it on, Pete, but you're nothing like him,"
"I know," he replied. Lowering his head, he placed a kiss on her belly. "I certainly got the better end of the exchange."
"… I think we both did," she replied.
Without warning, Peter blew raspberries on her belly.
Jennifer wasn't able to avoid bursting into laughter at the sensation.
Grinning, Peter lightly tickled her sides. That's the only kind of sound I want to hear from you. He didn't want to see her hurting and knew that the emotional scars she carried… might never heal.
The rest of their evening went very well. Jennifer even got the ice cream she was promised.
Thursday - 9am Jennifer's Bedroom
Shivering, Jennifer kept her eyes squeezed shut. The strain was immense. Her body had long broken out in a sweat. There were electrodes attached to her forehead, chest and belly - all of them there for readouts. She was curled up on her side on the bed, struggling to revert back into a far more compact form.
From where he was kneeling near Jen's head Peter watched quietly, feeling a chill running down his spine. He knew that Reed was to be trusted, but this did not look good at all. Still…
"Is anything changing Jen?" Reed asked, his attention flickering between her and the monitor. The readings so far looked acceptable.
"What… do you think… Egghead?" she snarled, a muscle in her jaw jumping. She whimpered, her entire body shaking. One of her hands was fiercely squeezing a globe-shaped stress ball.
Brushing sweaty locks back from her forehead, Peter looked around. "Does… does everyone have to be in here?" While he didn't normally mind being around any of them, they were crowded into a small apartment bedroom.
"Nope!" Johnny replied, taking the initiative and escaping the confines of the bedroom.
Ben peeked in the room. "Like I c'n fit in there!" he grumbled. "I barely fit through the front door!"
Truth be told… it was very risky having two individuals over six hundred pounds in the same area… Especially since one of them had already cracked part of the floor.
Only Susan remained in there with Reed. "Is it okay if I stay?" she asked, her voice soft.
Panting, Jennifer opened her eyes, one green one rolling up to focus on the brunette's face. Why is she even bothering to ask me? Her face reflected the weariness she still felt over their previous confrontation.
Swallowing convulsively at the stare she was on the end of, Sue stepped behind her husband.
"Take my hand, Jenny," Peter suggested.
"Peter, I'm gonna break your hand if I do," the green woman groaned in response. The stress ball she was holding let out a small squeak before popping, giving up under the pressure. Orange slime oozed between her fingers.
"Good thing that Reed is here then," he retorted after a moment, grasping her larger green hand in his own. He immediately felt the nearly crushing force of her grip. The knowledge that Jen was able to control her touch to the extent that she didn't injure others easily made his admiration for her grow.
He always wondered how she could contain the power she had at her disposal. Her cousin didn't seem to try at all. As her grip tightened further, he realized that sometimes… control had its limits. Peter swallowed hard. If he was a normal man, his hand would have already been pulverized. "Come on, Jenny!" he urged her.
Please don't shatter the bones in my hand! he thought, beginning to feel alarmed.
The tall woman wanted to scream. Agony was there - riding her back, the torture of feeling herself being torn inside out. "Shut… Please," she begged; her voice sounding strained. A familiar green glow began emitting from her eyes.
Here we go! Peter thought, pleased.
Thankfully, it took her less time to change back into her normal form than it did to initiate. The effort did not leave her unscathed. Once she was back and wholly a normal human woman, she struggled not to wheeze, completely soaked in sweat. The sclera in her eyes were red, from what Reed would later explain was the rupture of superficial blood vessels.
Seeing those blood red eyes scared Peter more than seeing her struggle earlier.
Done then, her grip on Peter's hands slackened, her eyes rolling shut. Her body abruptly stopped twitching and shaking, and she laid very still on her side.
Concerned, Peter checked to make sure she was still breathing. Fortunately, there didn't seem to be a problem in that regard.
"Good," Reed murmured. "No signs of any additional energy discharging."
Peter's shoulders drooped, and he felt a wave of relief. "Now we need to get this stuff off her," he added in reply. He began removing the electrodes from her forehead and chest. When he got to her belly however, he took extreme care.
"I'll help," Sue volunteered.
Together, the two of them removed the rest of the electrodes and cleaned the sticky gel off her skin.
"I didn't realize…" Susan murmured, in surprise. Her eyes focused on Jen's still features, how soft and delicate they were… and how absurd she looked in the clothing she was wearing now.
"Hmm?" Peter asked, gently rubbing Jen's forehead with an alcohol wipe.
"… Never mind," she replied. She was struck at how small Jennifer Walters was in her original form. Not that she hadn't seen it before, but she was so used to seeing Jen differently. The gamma radiation that was coursing through the She-Hulk's body greatly enhanced her appearance… but it was still an enhancement of what was already there.
She remembered Jennifer saying she felt more confident as the She- Hulk, not completely realizing how she was - just as herself. The guilt Susan felt at wrongly accusing her husband and their friend was biting at her even more fiercely.
Two Weeks Later Kearney Regional Airport Monday - 5am
Peter was barely able to restrain a grin. Even though there had been some expected and not so expected hiccups in the road, he hoped that their lives were going to be back on track soon. He lightly bumped Jen with his left shoulder, holding her hand as they traveled the length of the airport towards the gate.
The last week had been full of so much activity. Jen had a checkup to see how her abdominal muscles were and was given the all clear. This meant they could book their tickets to California along with Morris.
He remembered the older man nearly gushing about how much he was looking forward to getting home. Peter knew that the sheriff was not a fan of the weather in Nebraska by a long shot. The older man had also muttered something about sand and the sea.
Peter knew their items would be with Morris for a short period, until they could get their own apartment.
They received a call from Mallory to get to New York as soon as was possible, which surprised them and Peter was more than ready for a change of scenery. He was excited about the reason behind the lawyer's urgings. Had there been some advancement in his case?
All the same he was extremely nervous. The white box stored in a private pocket in his jacket felt like it was going to burn a hole through his skin. Peter still hadn't come up with the courage to offer the ring to Jen. Time is not exactly on my side… He wanted to marry her before the baby came.
Glancing down at her a moment as they walked, he could clearly see how Jen's body and outlook had changed since he'd first met her. She'd moved away from trying to find baggy clothing to hide her growing belly, shivering and isolating herself away. Now, she embraced her new curves. Her eyes were so bright and full of hope. Peter knew it was possible that his presence had been behind this, the thought alone making him feel warmer inside.
He wanted to hold his breath and pause - to freeze this moment in time. She was in a good mood. Both of them were.
Even so, there were still things out there that could rob them of peace. He wanted to wrap her up in his arms and keep all the atrocious things in life away from her.
Maybe I'm too protective? he wondered. Jennifer had already shown him before that she was more capable than she seemed.
She was much stronger than she looked… even without the She- Hulk's strength.
Sure, she had moments of weakness and times when she needed his help… but she was more inclined to still go it alone. It was his job to remind her that keeping aid nearby wasn't a bad thing.
Hopefully, one day she accepted that.
"What are you thinking about so intensely?" she asked.
Her words broke the reverie Peter was glad to drift through. "Hmm?" he asked, a bit confused.
Lowering her voice, Jennifer's lips curled up at the corners. "What are you thinking, Spider?" she asked, intentionally deepening her voice. "Something you want to share with the class?"
Seeing that grin, he still managed to retain his composure. She was trying to probe him without making it obvious. Maybe she's trying to catch me unawares. He knew that she possessed a side that could
be calculating - had been in a position to see it in action. While trying her hardest to not be dishonest in court - his fiancée was as sharp as
a tack and just as liable to hurl herself directly at any details when they came to her attention.
She had a way with words, that was for sure.
While it was true that something had been bothering him for days, he had refused to bring it up to her.
Eventually Jennifer came to the realization that he was dealing with some sort of problem. Once that happened, she was like a dog with a fresh bone. She was a problem-solver and chafed at the thought that he was hiding something from her. The irony of their situations seeming to reverse were not lost on her either.
"Wait a bit baby," he replied, mimicking her grin. He braced himself against the scowl he received.
"Fine," she grumbled. Even though Jen wanted to storm off and leave him there, the more logical part of her brain told her that she needed to calm down before she did anything stupid. I need wait… She just hoped it wouldn't be long.
Denver International 6:40am
"Mmm," Jennifer scratched her chin. They were seated at the Silver Bullet with plans for what to order - yet she'd been eyeing her menu for the last five minutes. "Uhh,"
Did she change her mind? Peter was beginning to wonder if she would even be able to order. They still had another hour or so before leaving with their layover but still… "Any…"
At his words, Jennifer looked up at him. "… ideas?" he asked.
Jennifer bit her bottom lip. She'd been so sure when they arrived, had told Peter she knew what she wanted. Now, her growling stomach was making it hard to decide.
She's practically drooling… Peter thought, frowning.
"Ehh," she murmured, one of her fingers tracing down all the options one at a time. "Maybe thi - No," Shaking her head, Jennifer seemed to be trying to discuss the matter seriously with herself.
Her fingers kept moving between the loaded cheese fries, chicken tenders and different burger options on the menu.
Oh no… Peter thought with chagrin. LaGuardia Plaza Hotel
4:52PM
Yawning widely, Peter allowed himself to fall backwards onto the fluffy pillowtop.
"Tired?" Jen asked, looking down at him.
It made sense if he was. They'd been traveling for most of the day. Now that Peter was at the stage where he hovered just a bit too much over her, he didn't get much rest if any at all during the entire flight.
"You are too," he replied.
As if confirming his words while he spoke, Jennifer rubbed her eyes. She'd taken a nap after they had a bite before the last flight to LaGuardia. They'd split a platter of nachos, and she ended up wolfing down most of that along with loaded cheese fries and a western style burger.
Peter hadn't picked nearly as much and just chose one of the grilled chicken sandwiches.
Fortunately, they had snacks packed for the flight.
Unfortunately, they still had to unpack and go meet Mallory. All Peter wanted to do was just sleep. "Think your friend will take a raincheck?" he asked, hopeful.
Amusement visible in her eyes, Jen shook her head. "Not on your life, Parker,"
With a grunt, Peter sat up again. It was very frustrating for him, but they had to keep moving. Their next flight would be in two days and they couldn't just put that on hold. "Good thing it's not that serious," he quipped, rubbing his face with both hands and yawning widely.
"You never know webhead," Jennifer remarked, moving into the bathroom with a few toiletries. "I'm going to freshen up and get ready for tonight."
Peter glanced at her disappearing form; one brow arched high. Now what did that mean? Did Mallory call her between there and here? It seemed… that this trip really was about his case.
Am I overthinking things? he wondered. It was a valid question. Peter wasn't certain what other reason they would have for being called to The Big Apple at all.
Grumbling and running both hands through his brown locks, he shook his head and stood up. Tired or not, it didn't matter. He needed to get ready for dinner. He didn't know much at all about the place they were being invited to for dinner - except it was on the pricier side.
It can't be too bad though, he thought. This is Jen's old colleague after all. He sincerely hoped there was no stringent dress code.
7:45PM
Taste Evolution
Peter's eye left twitched. He was trying his hardest not to grimace as he and his fiancée climbed the few stairs to the ornate front doors. There was even a giant mat right in front with the name of the restaurant on it. As soon as the doors swung open, he swallowed hard.
There was a waitstaff right at the front staring back at them. Everything looked so lavish in the main dining area. He could easily see it from the top of the staircase. There were several booths and strategically placed tables, all with white tablecloth and candles. What was she thinking? he wondered, uneasy.
It was several steps up from the local burger places, but still…
Swallowing hard and clearly uncomfortable, Jen accepted when Peter offered his arm. It was better than her nervously wringing her hands. When Mallory stated they were having a peaceful dinner in an elegant restaurant, she had never expected this.
If she'd had any clue, she would have dressed differently. "Reservation?" One of the staff asked politely. The man offered them
a genial smile.
"Ah… Under B-Book," Peter replied. "Mallory Book."
Nodding in understanding, the man keyed something into the tablet he was holding. "Welcome sir," he then addressed Jen. "Ma'am." His smile widened a fraction. "I'll lead you to your table."
Peter nodded quietly, feeling when Jen's grip on his bicep tightened. She was distressed - and he didn't blame her. He had vague memories of being in places like that.
Normally, it was when he was out with MJ. Thinking about his ex- fiancée brought an unexpected pang to his chest. If he thought about his ex and then the woman currently with him… they were as different as night and day. Is that just the notion of how things were? He wasn't sure.
The last few months had been very effective in cleaning up any lingering feelings he had for Mary Jane. Or had they? He didn't feel much aside from disappointment and pain when he thought of that failing relationship. What if I had never ended up here? Eventually, he would have faced MJ again… He felt goosebumps rising on his skin. The thought made him feel frustrated.
Mallory waved from where she was seated. Reaching down, she grasped the wheels on her chair and rolled over to them, a briefcase balanced neatly on her lap. She noticed Peter's immediate response to seeing her, how his eyes widened a bit too much, and he seemed to stiffen up. Frowning, she wondered for a moment what it was that bothered him.
When did she end up in a wheelchair? He hadn't remembered that the few times he'd met Mallory. Then again, he was thinking of the red-haired lawyer from his own universe. Peter opened his mouth briefly, but closed it… not wanting to make the meeting anymore awkward than it already was. How? The question was on the tip of his tongue, but he swallowed it down.
He would be overstepping his bounds by saying anything about it at all.
This was, after all, a different place.
"Glad you both could make it," Mallory began. Looking closer at the couple, her eyes widened as she took Jen in. Jennifer looked even more different in person.
"Long time, Mal," Jen replied.
"Yeah," she agreed. Gesturing to Jen, she lightened her tone. "How are you feeling? How's the baby?"
"Just a little tired from the flight," Jen replied. "It took more out of me than I thought," Pausing for a moment, she offered Mallory a small smile. "Baby's fine. Very awake right now."
"She's moving around?" Peter asked, suddenly distracted. His eyes went to her belly, one brow popping up.
"Oh yeah," Jen responded, her smile turning into a smirk. "Even if I wanted to sleep right now, might not be able to easily." As if to belie her words, she abruptly yawned.
"She still insisted we come, Ms. Book," Peter added, redirecting his gaze back to Mallory. "Said it was potentially something life changing." His curiosity shone easily on his face.
"Let's sit then -" the lawyer began.
Before Mallory could say more, Jennifer's stomach growled. The petite brunette's eyes widened, and she blushed furiously. "Umm," she murmured, looking down at her shoes.
"We… didn't have time to eat before we came," Peter offered, though he was amused.
"S-Sorry, Mal," Jen added, mortification written on her face.
"Nonsense," the redhead responded, waving them over again. "We can get the Tasting Menu tonight… if that's fine with both of you."
"Tasting Menu?" Jennifer asked as Peter led her to their table. Her stomach growled again before she could get another word out.
"Yes," Mallory replied. "Then we can get to the meat and potatoes of why I invited both of you here."
"Please stop mentioning food," Peter grumbled, taking his seat next to Jen. He could see by the flushing on her face that she was embarrassed.
"Ah! Right. Sorry," Mallory responded, a half-smile in place. "Let's just order then. My treat!"
"What are we having?" Jen asked a bit too eagerly, rubbing her hands together.
Peter struggled to contain a smirk. She has no idea what she just agreed to…
Main Universe
August 30 th , Monday
Baxter Building, Lower Levels - 7am
Hissing faintly, Jennifer continued her set, pushing the bars skyward. She was lying back on the adjustable chest press machine in the team's home gym. From what she'd been told, there was next to no limit to how much weight and tension it could apply.
Which suited her just fine. Most local gyms lacked enough weights to truly challenge her.
When she'd asked in the past as to how the machines could harness so much power, Reed ended up going into a strange tangent about black holes and harnessing the force behind the bends and tears in time and space.
She quickly lost interest in the conversation after that. However, she had remembered how to navigate to the gym. Fortunately, no one else was down here…
It's been a long time, she thought, sweat covering her from head to toe. Far too long… She hated how she'd become the object of attention for the rest of the Four. It was annoying.
They seemed hyperaware as to where she was, keeping their voices low as they spoke. It made her feel so discomfit. When they saw her, they would stop speaking entirely. She already had to deal with feeling sick, but their ongoing treatment made it worse.
She felt cruddy.
Yesterday, she'd been semi-permanently benched. While Reed hadn't revoked her membership to the Fantastic Four, she wasn't allowed to go out on active missions.
What a terrible gift… Jennifer thought, grimacing. While she hadn't appreciated it when Jazinda had implanted a communication device in her brain… what she did this time was wholly uncalled for.
Completely.
The tall woman never thought she would ever feel such rage against a friend, someone she had at one point trusted her life with. Why did she do that to me? Feeling her eyes welling up with tears, she pushed the bar up with force and locked it into place. She sat up on the bench, resting her elbows on her knees, her face in her hands.
Since becoming the She-Hulk, she'd dealt with people who wanted to kill her, people who wanted to harness what she was for experimentation. She'd been betrayed by family and friends, nearly lost her life several times in the process. It had been a long and hard road to learn to trust other people again.
Sure, there were bright spots.
Lifting her face, she stared at the ceiling, tears tracking down her cheeks.
Those happy times were few and far between. Her work in the courthouse had been her dream. Ever since childhood, she had doggedly searched for a way to enter the legal field - to help those who couldn't help themselves. She had achieved that, had her accolades, certificates and the chance to do what she hadn't been able to as a child. To protect and serve others to the best of her ability.
Her ambitions led her to taking up a case against the man who murdered her mother, and ultimately lead to where she was now.
But this… What did I ever do to deserve this? Fresh tears came unbidden.
Swallowing hard and trying to stop the tears, she rose to her feet and walked over to the towel she'd set aside just to dry herself off. Once she reached it, she had to plant a hand on the wall behind it to maintain her balance. Why did the world have to tilt now?
"Urg," she grunted, using her other hand to hold herself upright.
It wasn't right. None of it was. If I ever find Jaz again, she thought, feeling her temper beginning to boil over, I won't leave anything to come back to.
Inside, she knew that at the core of it all, the overriding feeling of violation would be one she could never escape. No matter how big I get or how strong I am, I'll never be able to fully protect myself… she thought with disgust. She still vividly remembered the conversation she'd had after passing out a few weeks ago.
Then
I sent you a special packet of DNA." Jazinda paused for a moment.
Jennifer's eyes widened in shock. "A… packet of," her words trailed off.
It's a deoxyribonucleic acid packet. You know? Building block packet," Jazinda replied, her tone very matter-of-fact.
B… W… Why?" Jennifer asked, beginning to shiver - and it had nothing to do with the cold.
Don't you like it?" Jazinda asked.
Jennifer sat very still on her bed, her mind in turmoil. She already had a terrible confrontation with Reed, was trying to figure out what was causing her to feel so ill. And now this…
You don't, do you? It was already programmed for you!"
The words yanked Jen out of the void she felt herself sinking into. "Pro… Programmed," she parroted. "F-For what? Why would you do this to me Jaz?!" Now the shock was beginning to twist and
transform into indignation and anger.
It's supposed to help you with your transformations," Jaz replied. On her end, she had a puzzled expression. She wasn't certain why her friend was so upset. "Isn't it doing that?"
Jaz…" Jennifer began. "What did you just say? Why did you think I needed something like that?!" If she needed help, she would have reached out to Bruce or Reed. Between the two, Bruce had the most knowledge with her unique physiology. Even her friend Zapper could have…
I was told it was supposed to help you have hulk strength without having to transform."
You. Were. Told?!" Jennifer was even more upset. Jazinda hadn't even been the one behind the packet to begin with. "Why… Where did you even put it?"
The silence on the other end of their communication made her nape rise. It wasn't a phone call, or even a video call. No additional technology was involved, which meant Jazinda was refusing to answer.
Jaz!"
It was an injection, alright?! So ungrateful!"
Are you serious right now?" she asked, her right eye twitching. She noticed that her friend still hadn't explained where the thing was located. "This isn't the same as the brain implant Jaz - which I'll add I never asked for!"
So what's the problem? My superior said it would work as intended."
"… Superior?" Which brought Jennifer back to the chilling reality that something was inside of her body, and she had no clue what it was doing to her. Or where it was.
Look, I'll be in touch," Jazinda replied. She did not sound pleased at all. "You should learn to enjoy gifts given to you, Jennifer."
Jaz?" Yet she still felt it when the communication was cut.
It was when she realized her nightmares were becoming a reality.
Now
Sometimes… she thought with a grimace, as the effort to remain upright made her feel just a little queasy. I wish I could just -
"Jen?"
Hearing a voice did not make her feel better. Instead, she felt infinitely worse. It seemed her 'peaceful' time alone was over. Though what about her current situation was serene at all? Instead of responding, she pressed her forehead against the wall. It felt cool to the touch. If I stay still long enough, she thought with displeasure, I should be able to just walk out of here.
"Jennifer, what's wrong?" the voice spoke up again.
With reluctance, Jennifer turned her head, staring flatly at Susan. "Nothing to worry about," she finally said, green eyes squeezing closed at an acute surge in nausea. "No," she moaned, fresh sweat popping out of her forehead. Her face contorted. I can't! Not now! When she woke up, she felt fine.
Too bad it hadn't lasted.
The green woman was in a very inflexible spot. The severe churning in her guts was worsening, and she couldn't move.
Anxious, Susan rushed over to her. "What are you doing in here alone?" she asked.
Jennifer's eyes popped wide open to see Susan right in front of her. I… Can't hold… She was barely able to turn her head before she brought up her dinner from the night before, along with the protein shake she'd had on the trip to the gym.
Startled, Susan backed up, automatically raising a shield directly in front of her body.
Just as suddenly as the sickness appeared, it vanished. Jennifer was left standing with her hands to the wall, her legs visibly quivering. Her sports shirt and stomach were covered with varying shades of orange, brown and yellow fluids.
"Umm,"
Feeling miserable, Jennifer turned to look at Sue, viscous liquid dripping from her lips and chin.
"You need to go to the medlab," Susan began, "If only to have a scan to see if everything is okay."
Feeling her eyes roll slightly, Jen shook her head. "There's no need," she rasped. "I already told you that." Her green eyes shifted away for a moment. "Just… just let me be."
"What were you doing down here?" Susan asked, changing tactics. It was more than a little upsetting to see their colleague and friend so unwell.
"… Since I've been pulled off the team," she began, not having the energy to argue. "I came here to blow off some steam."
"You need to take it easy," Sue began.
"And you need to butt out!" Jennifer snapped in response. As soon as the words left her lips, her eyes widened momentarily and she
swallowed. "I…" Her shoulders sagged. "I'm… sorry," she said. Instead of saying anything else, Susan waited.
"It's just… I've already told you - all of you - what Jaz did to me," She bit her bottom lip. "Yet you seem to either not understand or not acknowledge what I've said."
"Well… Considering your reputation -" she paused as Jennifer shot her a look. "Y-You don't get sick," Susan added quickly. "I know. I understand what you told us, but it sounds kind of fantastical."
Jennifer shook her head and straightened up carefully. She felt Susan's hand against her back as the shorter woman tried to help. "Despite what we've seen," she began, visibly relaxing. At least only Susan is here… "Including the places we've gone and things we've done - the idea of me having an alien DNA packet doesn't make any sense? Really?"
Susan didn't reply.
Sighing, Jennifer shook her head. "You don't need the shield," she added. "I'm not going to throw up again."
Blue eyes narrowed. "Are you sure about that?"
About to reply, Jennifer stopped abruptly. It was an honest question. Was she sure of herself? Working her jaw for a moment, she shook her head. "Uh, n-no. Not really." Frowning, she picked up her towel.
"Will you come get a scan?" Susan asked again.
Pursing her lips, Jennifer glanced away for a moment, in thought. "I need a new towel," she finally said, her features scrunching up. "And a shower."
"So… you'll go?" the blonde asked. She didn't want Jennifer to feel like she was under pressure, but still.
"… Fine," Jennifer replied, feeling her temper snap. "Fine fine fine!" Her face displayed her displeasure.
1 Hour Later…
Groaning, Jennifer leaned heavily on the wall of the shower. She felt absolutely horrible, which negated any benefits she should have had from her workout.
The rush of dopamine and endorphins seemed to have dropped down and skipped out. Instead of feeling good, she felt as if she had run into an impenetrable wall. Her body hurt, and she didn't want to do anything else today.
Bracing both hands on the wall, she lowered her head between her shoulders, panting.
General malaise aside, this was turning out to be something serious.
What is wrong with me? she wondered, forcing herself to dip down further so as to let the hot water pound against sore muscles. She never felt fatigue like this after a workout. It took a lot more. I need to go to the medlab…
Grimacing all the while, Jen carefully switched the water to cold after a few more minutes to try and cool herself off.
Jennifer ended up needing more time.
So, when she stomped into the medlab at 9:30am on the dot, she pointedly ignored the fact that Johnny was in there. Susan was as well, but she easily tuned out both blondes. "Reed?" she asked, her voice tight.
Looking up from the microscope he was using at present, his eyes widened. He knew that she was supposed to be there… but that was nearly two hours ago. Still, the scientist had found something to keep himself busy while he waited.
It wasn't that big of a building, and he didn't want to alienate her by trying to chase her down for an examination. He remembered his wife's recounting of what happened in their gym and kept his mouth shut. There was no need to grill Jennifer on why she was so active - alone… and in her condition.
"Sorry if I'm interrupting," she began, uncertainty in her voice.
One blink, two and Reed had straightened up to his full height. "Nonsense," he replied, offering his friend a reassuring smile.
Uncomfortable, Jennifer stuck her hands into the pockets of her sweatpants. She was clad in her usual 'lay around and relax' wear - baggy shirt included, but she seemed anything but relaxed. "Uhh," she flinched at how small her voice sounded. "I came in f-for a scan."
"Understood," he responded, leading her to one of the examination rooms. Once she was inside, he fished a cloth gown out of a drawer and tossed it to her. "Put this on, and I'll be back in a few minutes."
Catching it, Jennifer's eyes widened and she stared at Reed for a very uncomfortable moment. "What am I supposed to remove?" She thought she was there for just a scan. Why would I -
"Everything." After speaking, Reed pulled the door closed, but not before seeing Jennifer's alarmed expression.
After returning to the main area in the lab, he met confused blue eyes and sighed.
"She keeps insisting that there's some alien packet inside her," Sue spoke softly, frowning.
He nodded, glancing to Johnny.
To his credit, the younger man pantomimed zipping his lips. I hope it's nothing serious… He felt split in what he thought of the situation. It was just so strange. Then again, so was their presence in the area taking on missions.
It was actually why Ben wasn't there. They'd had an early morning tip and their friend opted to take it on alone.
"… ld like to rule out all that I can," Reed spoke "If she insists that she's dealing with a… DNA packet, then we will find out after looking."
Susan crossed her arms, frowning.
"We need to be back there in a few minutes, Sue," he added. "… Fine," she grumbled.
The pair worked together to collect the medical supplies they would need. In no time at all, both of them entered the room Jennifer was in.
Wide green eyes greeted them, along with the sight of the tall woman clad in a gown that proved to be a bit too -
"I gave you the biggest size we have," Reed explained, before closing his mouth with a click at the responding glare.
To her credit, even though she was losing her temper again, Jennifer kept her mouth closed. But oh, was it difficult. What Reed had given her was certainly a gown, but it was suited for someone at least half a foot shorter. She could feel and hear the material straining from the stress of containing her. She had her legs pulled up in the bed with her so as to protect what little dignity she had.
Squeezing her legs together, she bit her bottom lip. "Ah, can this wait a few minutes, Reed?"
The scientist raised a brow.
"I have to go to the bathroom," she added, squirming.
"Full bladder?" he asked, moving to another drawer and removing a small tube.
"Y-Yes," she replied, swallowing. She moved to get up.
"Wait," he stated, halting her advance. He stepped over to Sue and placed the tube down on the rolling tray. "Did we grab the adamantium one?" he asked.
Incredulous green eyes narrowed. "That's not a good idea at all." "No," he replied. "It's good actually."
Closing her eyes and trying not to focus on her turgid bladder, she grimaced at all of the strange sounds that she really didn't want to hear. "Just let me go, Stretch," she choked out, the waiting making everything feel worse. "I don't want to pee on myself."
"It's just right for this examination," Reed responded, turning around and holding a…
"What is that?!" Jennifer asked after opening her eyes, on edge.
"It's a probe," he replied, as if that was not a cause for concern. The thing was very shiny with some sort of gel, having been lubricated well enough.
Disturbingly, it was a little over half a foot long.
"Probe?" Jen's right eye twitched, feeling her body stiffen. "… For what?"
Reed was quiet and briefly glanced to his wife.
"Jen, let's prop your knees up," Sue spoke as she approached their friend, understanding what they had to do. "And spread 'em."
Jennifer emitted a loud squeak, not at all the kind of sound expected out of the She-Hulk.
Noon
Sitting in front of the monitors, Reed leaned back in his chair, arms folded behind his head. He waited as the imprinted code ran its course through the systems. While he waited, he felt himself growing more and more puzzled over the tests they'd subjected Jennifer to.
At current, the jade powerhouse was back in her own room asleep. It was just so strange . Nothing had turned out as he expected.
As it was, he was running two different programs. One was trying to understand exactly what the result of her tests were and the other was still seeking the source of that 'blip'. They might not have been related, but then again…
Hearing static coming through the speakers, Reed glanced over at his monitors.
And did a double-take.
"… ancy see…" the sound came through on his end, but the words were a bit disjointed. There was a fuzzy image trying to form before his eyes.
Sitting up, he moved to the keyboard, trying to narrow the band and hopefully get a clearer picture. A few minutes passed, and he could barely make out a shape in the screen.
Susan stepped into the room behind him. "Darling," she began, looking closely at the monitors. "What have you found?"
Looking down while he continued to plug in commands, he cleared his throat. "I'm not exactly sure Sue," he replied. "I think it's the 'blip' though."
"The what?" she asked, walking up behind him and resting a hand on his shoulder.
"The 'blip'," he repeated.
"… n bare… see…" the voice came through the speakers again.
"Hey!" Reed called through the microphone. "Are you in the blip?" he asked.
"… ip?… sking…" the image dimmed suddenly. Reed frowned.
I think…" the voice resumed, sounding clearer. "We need to enhance… projections…"
Susan blinked, not expecting that at all. "Reed?"
"… Reed?" the voice asked. It sounded like they were speaking to a man, but from where was anyone's guess.
"Yes," he replied. "That's me."
"… is possible… th's my name!" The audio was beginning to destabilize.
Not wanting to let the chance escape, Reed plugged in another series of commands. Head bent over the keyboard; he didn't notice when the image on the monitors stabilized.
Susan did though, her jaw dropping. "R… Reed?" she questioned, the features of the man on the monitor very familiar.
Yes?"
"Yes?"
Both men froze.
Looking up from the console, Reed echoed his wife's visual reaction.
"It's not possible!" Susan stated, her eyes narrowing as she saw a woman similar to herself on the monitor.
I assure you, many things are possible," The other Susan stated. "I suppose this is the 'blip' you were speaking about, darling?" As she spoke, she redirected her gaze to her husband.
"Blip?" Susan echoed under her breath. It was the exact term that Reed had used.
I think we got off on the wrong foot," the other Reed stated. Inhaling slowly, he ran his fingers through wavy blond hair. "I've been trying to track down the source of a strange disturbance we had here some months ago."
"We had the same," Reed replied, shaking off his shock. Now, he was beginning to notice some of the visible differences in their counterparts. How deep does it go, I wonder… "I've been working to narrow down the time, but I'm almost convinced that it was after an explosion at Pier Sixty."
Explosion?" The other Sue asked. One of her dark brows shot up suddenly, and she looked at Reed again. "We didn't have reports of anything like that over here."
"Yes… It," Reed lowered his eyes a moment. He frowned, wondering how much he should divulge. "We lost a friend there," he spoke, eyes still downcast. "It was a pretty big blow to us, all of us."
I'm sorry to hear that," The other Reed replied. "We lost a friend here too, but it was before we had the 'blip'."
"You have my condolences," Reed responded. "Ever since it happened, we've had to take over his patrols in New York."
The other Susan nodded. "We had to do the same when Peter died," She didn't notice the sudden shock on her counterpart's face. "Then it was just the four of us here to hold the city together."
Reed's eyes narrowed. It was just a coincidence… right? "For us, it's five." Noting the questioning look in their eyes. "We have Jennifer
working with us."
The other Susan's eyes rounded. "We couldn't do that here," she blurted. "It wouldn't be good for the-" She was abruptly cut off when her husband nudged her with his elbow.
"Couldn't?" Reed asked.
You have Jennifer there? In the Tower?" The other Reed asked, as if not hearing the question. When he received a nod, his brows furrowed. "How is she?"
The question seemed very out of the place. Then again, Reed thought while holding back a grimace. Nothing here is normal. Nothing at all. Before he could reply, another voice chimed in.
"Whoa!" Johnny exclaimed, walking fully into the room. "I never knew you wanted to be a blonde, Reed."
Startled for a moment, Reed frowned. "I don't," he replied. "Really?" Johnny asked. "But you have right there-"
I assure you," The other Reed spoke. "That we are not an illusion."
My brother would say the exact same thing," the other Susan noted.
"They lost their Peter too," Susan supplied.
Johnny's body jerked in response before he could stop himself. What are the odds?
"I'm wondering where the signal is coming from," Reed interjected.
We're not certain, but we think that Peter might be better at explaining it to you." the other Reed remarked. He was not disappointed to see their shock.
"You just said that he died," Susan responded.
That's because he did," the brunette remarked. She folded her arms. "However, we seem to have acquired another one."
Nonplused faces greeted her.
He might belong to you," she added. "That's…" Reed was at a loss for words.
Since we wondered if our reality really reflects your own, we were asking how Jennifer is doing."
"Uhh…" Reed hesitated, looking at Johnny. He raised a brow in question. It wasn't his place to share any aspect of Jennifer's health, especially not over some strange connection that might prove tenuous at best.
"I'll go get her," the young man replied, leaving the room. "She'll be right by," Reed stated loud enough for them to hear. To their credit, the counterparts waited patiently.
Ten Minutes Later…
Johnny was practically dragging the Jade giantess with him. He was eager to figure out what this strange couple had to say to her.
Jen yawned widely, not bothering to cover her mouth. What was the point really? She was so tired. Seeing the monitor, she blinked a bit and walked closer to it.
"… Reed,"
Johnny frowned at the brunette on the monitor.
I know," the other Reed replied. Focusing on the tall figure approaching them, his mouth moved for a moment without words. "Jen…"
Jennifer looked at Reed. "There any reason that some blond version of you is talking to me?"
"Well…"
My apologies," the other Reed spoke. "I'm just very surprised to see you… like that."
Jennifer's left brow shot straight up. She folded her arms, lightly cocking her head to the side. "How else am I supposed to - Wait…" Shaking her head, she narrowed her eyes. "Do I know you?" There were many questions popping up in her head now.
No. Not quite," the other Susan explained. "However, we were just explaining that we might have someone who belongs to you… Jen."
What are they even…? Jennifer's eyes narrowed to slits. She wasn't in any sort of mood for games.
"They said they had Peter over there," Reed added.
Jennifer suddenly felt her mind go blank. That wasn't what she expected to learn. How is that even possible? she wondered, dazed. All of them had seen the destroyed platform inside that building… had found no evidence at all of Spider-Man. Eyewitness accounts had told them well enough, with J Jameson emerging as the swiftest to report what he had seen.
"T-That," she choked, not wanting to relive how she'd felt when she was informed of the loss of their… friend. "Is. Not. Possible." Jennifer's voice sounded harsher than intended. She was not pleased.
The other Susan flinched, uncomfortable from watching the response. "Unfortunately," she replied, moving a step back at the animosity on Jen's face. "We are serious. And it is possible. We have him here."
Maybe they didn't end it as smoothly as here?" another voice off camera asked.
Not listening to their words, Jennifer turned her face away from the monitors, her bottom lip quivering. Tightening the muscles in her jaw, she tried in vain to ignore the moisture collecting in her eyes. It's all lies! she told herself.
Oh…" the other Reed spoke, realization dawning on his face. "That's not - I never thought of that."
Watching her out the corner of his eye, Reed frowned. He knew how much she hurt back then. It was more profound than what would have been appropriate at the time. None of them had said anything to her, not wanting to make it worse. Something else occurred to him. The wording they were using seemed just a bit… strange.
"What did you mean just then?" he asked. As much as he fretted over their ailing teammate, he needed answers. "About them 'ending it'?" Something's wrong here… he thought, seeing how the counterparts were shooting each other glances.
Susan watched carefully as the other version of herself seemed to turn her thoughts inward. "I think we need to get Jen out of here," she spoke softly, only loud enough for Reed to hear.
They were together," the other Reed replied, having come to some sort of agreement with his wife. "The split with our Peter and Jen wasn't… exactly the nicest. He died not too long afterward."
The bombshell this man had unwittingly dropped had a different effect on everyone in the room.
Johnny was unable to look at Jen now. It was completely irrational for him to feel apprehensive around her. They were hearing about some alternate version of her.
Yet…
She had held back crucial information about her state of health, and by doing that had either intentionally or not put all of them at risk while out in the field.
Reed's eyes were wide. Why would…
Susan clapped a hand over her mouth in shock.
Jennifer felt a chill running down her spine. She stiffened, unable to completely comprehend what she was hearing. She… I would never hurt… Turning back to the monitors and taking another step forward, she ground her teeth together. "Look," she began, feeling torn. "I don't know the entire logistics of this…" She waggled a hand in the air, searching for the right word. "Liaison… or affair they were involved in, and I don't care to know."
The other Reed frowned at her reaction.
"I would never do anything to hurt Peter," she added. Even though in the past, her temperament when dealing with him was prickly, she didn't resort to violence. "So, if this alternate me went and killed him- "
No! No no no! Not at all!" he rushed to add. "She didn't do anything to cause his death."
Brows furrowed, Jennifer sniffed, tears beginning to stream down her cheeks. "I'm going back to my room," she announced, fed up. I never should have gotten out of bed. She was already dealing with feeling like a science project and had been rudely pulled out of bed… for this. She turned around to leave.
"… How is the electrical storm, Jen?" he asked, leaning closer to the screen.
Stopping in place, Jennifer looked over her shoulder. "How's the what?"
Reed's eyes narrowed as he watched the alternate version of himself suddenly shifting around uneasily. "I… have the same question."
Again, the couple looked at each other, lowering their voices.
The sight made Jen fidget. She didn't like it at all when others spoke about her when she was standing right there .
"Doesn't matter, Stretch," Jennifer spoke up… after far too much waiting.
Our Jennifer… she can't become the She-Hulk," the other Reed noted. "Not without risk. She accidentally did a few weeks ago and we had to render her aid to revert back to her human self."
Jen frowned at that.
She has an electrical storm in her head that prevents her from safely changing."
"What's causing these storms?" Reed asked. He chanced a peek at Jen, noticing that they'd caught her attention again.
Well…" his voice softened, a small smile forming on his lips. "It's because she's pregnant. And Peter is the father."
A hush fell over the room at his pronouncement.
"Oh," Johnny said. Then, he blinked in confusion and looked the monitors. "Wait… pregnant with what?"
Flabbergasted, Jennifer wasn't even able to slap Johnny upside the head for asking such a senseless question. She… Her eyes became heavily lidded. I… Her cheeks darkened. She'd never had a chance to-
Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe) Test Evolution
9:30PM
There were many things Jennifer could say to describe the "Tasting Menu". Bountiful and sufficient didn't even qualify. The portions were pitifully small, but their friend was treating them, so she wasn't going to complain.
At least her stomach wasn't making any noise.
Wrapping his arm around her waist, Peter pulled her close. "Are you feeling alright?" he asked. He'd watched her consume quite a few different varieties… of nearly everything.
"Yeah," she murmured softly. "It's pretty tasty." "Portions were kind of small," he chimed in.
Before Jen could say anything else, Mallory cleared her throat. When she deduced she had both of their attention, she spoke. "Now that both of you are settled, I'll explain why we're all here." Undoing the latches on her briefcase, she pulled out a long manilla envelope. "Peter," she began. "You had a case of um… shall we say missing identity."
The hero nodded.
"So here is the solution for you," Pausing, Mallory barely managed to restrain a grin. "Full identity, refreshed paperwork. Bank accounts, property and the like…"
"I-"
"All yours now," Mallory continued. She handed the envelope to Peter. "Ink's still drying, but we've done the best we could for you."
"I think having an actual identity is good enough for me," Peter replied. "You didn't need to attach all of the other things… if it was too much.
"We did though, so no need to fear."
Bowing his head, Peter held the envelope in a shaking hand. They'd done it. They'd actually succeeded in him becoming a legal citizen. Remembering the box in his pocket, he drew in a deep breath to settle his nerves. It was time.
It was finally time. "As for you Jennifer-"
"Wait." Peter placed the envelope on the table and pulled away from Jennifer. "I have something I want to say first." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a white box. "When I asked before," he began, a smile forming. "For you to stay by my side and wanted to spend the rest of my life with you… I didn't offer you the best in rings."
"I still treasure it, Pete," Jennifer replied.
Peter opened the box. "That was spontaneous of me, but this… This is for you alone Jenny."
She reached out her left hand to him, silently showing her acceptance.
Hands trembling a little, Peter slid the ring on her finger, not removing the still present pop ring. "I love you so much Jen."
Her cheeks grew pink. "I love you too, Pete." She felt entranced by the patterns in the ring's design. "How much was-"
"Price doesn't matter, Jen," he replied. "It's just like you. Priceless."
They moved closer and were about to kiss when Mallory loudly cleared her throat.
Startled, both of them jumped apart.
"Your case is something else," Mallory began. There was a serious expression on her face. "It has so many layers…"
"What do you mean Mal?" Jen asked, eyeing the other lawyer. Mallory looked bewildered.
"There's more than meets the eye," she responded. She pulled out another, shorter envelope and handed it to Jennifer. "This is going to be big when it gets out."
"Gets out?" Jen asked, looking between the envelope and meeting Mallory's stare.
"Mister Ellsworth Randall," she began, "Is involved with all sorts of dirty dealing. He has an accomplice."
"Who-"
"Some woman… Says here someone named L. Nell."
Unexpected recognition led to Jennifer scowling. She knew exactly who that was.
"Jen?" Peter asked.
Shaking her head, Jennifer leaned against Peter's side. "I'll explain when we get back to our room."
"You two have a lot to talk about," Mallory wheeled back from the table. "Have a very good night. Jennifer? We'll be in touch." "Yeah," Peter spoke up. "We'll be pretty busy tomorrow, so we'll be in town for a few more days."
Jennifer lifted a brow.
"Yup," Turning to Jen, he rested one hand on her lower back and the other on her belly. "We're getting married tomorrow," he stated simply, tuning out Jennifer's shocked expression. "You're invited to attend Mallory."
"Pete-"
"No," he replied, switching his attention back to his fiancée. "I'm legal now," he explained, his lips curving up at the corners. "I've been pretty lackadaisical in the past, but that stops now."
Mallory folded her arms, leaning back in her chair.
"I asked Chip to not come until I could marry her mama, and I plan on marrying you before you pop."
Jen blinked slowly, not sure if she should be offended. Did he just… "So soon?"
Peter nodded firmly; his features devoid of the usual humor. "Absolutely." He absolutely refused to mess up again in a serious relationship.
The redhead had seen and heard enough. "I don't have diabetes yet," Mallory interjected. "And I don't plan on picking it up anytime soon." She waved them off. "I will see you both tomorrow, just make sure to send me the address."
"Understood," he replied, standing. He handed both of the folders to Jen and scooped her up into his arms. She yelped and quickly wrapped an arm around his neck. "We'll see you then." Turning around, Peter hastily strolled out of the restaurant.
Jennifer turned her face into his chest, not wanting to see what expressions the staff had.
To Be Continued…
Author's Note: Hey there! Hope you enjoyed the chapter! I have a big biiig scene I wanted to slap on the bottom of this chapter as a preview. Unfortunately, I haven't written it all out yet and worked out the kinks. Oh well, there's next time right?
I tried to write my disclaimer in Simlish and Klingon, but both failed as far as translations go. Boo.
EA, please give us a better translator… please!
I'm uploading this after being awake all night so… Literally. I see the sun high in the sky. -_- Apologies for any errors, misspellings or typos.
I am a nerd for medical shows and procedures. That's important because medical stuff will likely come up fairly often going forward. If I'm off on jargon or terms, please let me know.
Then… I need to figure out how to marry medicine and science in this fanfic.
Marry. Hahaha! Take care!
~J. Lyst
I avoided accidentally tying "J. Lust" for once. Go me !
Author Note Addition: Fastest. Edit. Ever. That's likely due to putting in actual effort to revise the chapters before regurgitating the
first thing that comes to mind and tossing it online. Thank you past me.
Edited to clear up a few words… hopefully smooth out what might not have been as bad. The date for this one is December 11, 2023.