Disclaimer: Money (obviously) did not bring me here. I absolutely love the idea of a Peter/Jen pairing and have fallen in love with this fic. If only Marvel would… y'know. Hint… hint…
Trigger: A topic of a sensitive nature is near the middle of the fiction. There's a helpful ~ symbol. To avoid, just skip down to the ~ End marker.
Warning: I am running on nearly nothing. I've also been up all-night editing this. I hope it's a good read! Also: I am a medical nerd, but I am not a medical expert at all. I just am trying to have stuff sound as factual as possible.
In fiction.
Anyway…
Navigating the Curve
By Juliette Lyst
Surrender To Me
Main Universe September 11 th
Parker Residence - 9AM
Snoring seemed to be the order of the day… or the night. Whichever one it was. The concepts of what normally constituted 'normal' sleeping hours escaped her now. Grumbling just a bit, the redhead rolled over on the couch.
It was pitiful really.
Even though Samuel and Matthew had taken so many pains and spent hours cleaning up the house for her-she still as of yet refused to use that bedroom. Things were still so painful. Still so raw . It didn't matter that several months had passed.
Nor did she care that Peter's picture had been removed from the newspaper. Jameson had warned her it would happen.
Her mobile phone chirped, but she shoved it off the couch, trying to sink back into the cushions. After a few minutes, she got up and headed to the bathroom. A few minutes later, while washing her hands, she stared into her reflection in the mirror. In the last few weeks, Mary Jane had completely turned her schedule upside down… The results of the constant lack of sleep were visible.
She also had a waxy complexion, probably from a lack of sunlight… and her poor eating habits.
If she ate. She was becoming more irregular with day to day things she should do.
Yawning widely then, she splashed some water on her face. She heard her phone chirp again after she exited the bathroom, but she padded right past it and opened her fridge.
At least she hadn't returned to leaving half filled containers of rotting takeout in the fridge… but all the fresh food her friends had given her were all in different states of decay.
Except the cheese. She ate that. And some of the fruit.
Pulling a few slices of cheese from the pack, she slammed the door closed and walked further into the kitchen. A quick search in the cabinet under the sink revealed her prize. Hidden behind various cleaning products was a nice handle of vodka.
Setting it down on the kitchen counter, she checked the cabinets over the sink, retrieving a shot glass. Pouring herself a shot, she tossed it back before walking back to the couch to retrieve her phone. Sitting down and beginning to pull open the plastic around the cheese slices, she squinted… scrolling through her messages.
"Huh," she mumbled. Sami had sent her yet another text message. That brought the number up to twenty. Not that she had read any of them. She didn't even take the time to open the message so that he would see 'read' on his end of the conversation.
If the redhead took the time to look at her actions, she was showing herself to be a terrible friend. Ungrateful, unkind, and self-serving. Sami had been trying to reach her for over a week now. All she'd said the last time she saw him was that she was going on a 'sabbatical' to relax.
What she had failed to inform him of-was the fact that she had decided to quit modeling. The work was becoming a bit too much for her. It also was becoming… boring for her.
Before she was able to put the phone down, another message flit across her screen.
This time though… the number was one she didn't recognize. Whoever it was though… they knew who she was.
The message read: "Hello Miss Watson. I know this might prove to be strange, but I'm trying to reach you about an important matter. It's best not to discuss it through text messaging."
Frowning, her thumb hovered over the messaging window. What do I do? She didn't answer when her friend had tried to message her, but now she was reaching out to a stranger. This might be a scam… she though, swallowing hard. Or it could be something good. It might also be bad news, but she didn't want to think about that too much.
Getting off the couch, she returned to the kitchen and poured herself another shot. After swallowing it down, she picked up her phone and called the number back-instead of texting.
It rang a few times before the person on the other end picked up.
That was fast, Miss Watson," the voice spoke.
MJ creased her brows in thought. He sounds familiar… who…?
I called you because I had some news."
"Who is this?" she asked, bluntly. There was no way to be certain that this person wasn't just using minimal knowledge they had about her against her.
My contact isn't in the phone?" the voice asked.
MJ frowned, suspicious of the older man talking to her on the phone. But… she reminded herself. I called him, not the other way around. "No," she replied, shortly.
Peter should have programmed it in there for you." "… Why would he have done that?"
My apologies," the voice continued. "My name is Reed Richards. And the reason I thought that Peter had me in your phone is because you two were engaged."
Green eyes widened. "But… H-How did you find this number?"
He gave us the number," Reed explained. "In case something happened to him, he wanted us to be able to reach you," he paused, letting out a sigh. "I am so sorry we didn't reach out to you sooner."
She swallowed hard. He really loved me, she thought, tears welling up in her eyes. "It's… umm…" she heard her voice cracking. Clearing her throat, she tried again. "I'm not upset," Though to be fair, it was upsetting to know that someone was meant to reach out to you in an emergency… and simply forgot .
I don't know how I'll be able to make it up to you," Reed spoke, softening his voice.
"You don't need to," the redhead replied. Squeezing her eyes shut, she wiped away a few tears that escaped with her wrist.
No.
No tears.
Not right now.
I do have something positive to tell you, and I'd like you to come to our headquarters."
"But," MJ frowned. "I don't know how to get to you."
Look outside," Reed replied. "Ben and Johnny should be out there to pick you up."
"What?" Still wide-eyed, MJ opened the front door and looked up. "You have…" She lost her grip on her phone, dropping it in the grass.
"Madam," Johnny spoke, flashing a charming grin. "Your chariot awaits."
Instead of responding, MJ stood there, blinking at two members of the Fantastic Four. Am I really here, she asked herself. Or is this some fanciful dream? If it turned out to be a dream, it was proving to be one of the stranger ones.
"Uhm…" Ben looked at Johnny. "We might need backup." "… For what?" the blond man grumbled.
Baxter Building
11:12AM
Shock gone, MJ finally settled herself enough to agree to travel with Ben and Johnny. She'd taken the time to shower and actually eat something else other than cheese. When she finally came back outside, she had expected both of the men to be gone. They were still there, just as they had promised to be.
Riding in the elevator was a new experience with them. For one, she was sandwiched between Ben Grimm and Johnny Storm, with the latter performing a pretty good impression of a flattening tire. She noticed that Ben seemed irritated, but kept his mouth shut.
"So…" she flinched when both men looked at her-at the same time. "D-Do either of you know why I'm here?"
Johnny's blue eyes met Ben's. "That's for Reed to tell," he replied. "Not us."
"So… I don't even get a hint?" the redhead asked, folding her arms. Johnny shrugged. "Sorry," he responded. "House rules."
"House what?"
Silence soon reigned in the elevator, but thankfully it reached its destination.
The three stepped out the doors.
Reed was standing right there to greet them. "Hello Mary Jane," he spoke, keeping his tone light. Something about how the young woman looked made him uneasy. What has she been doing to herself? he wondered, concerned.
"Hello… Reed. You are Reed, right?"
The older man nodded. "I have something to show you."
A blonde head popped from behind him. "Nice to see you," she spoke. She reached out to shake hands with MJ.
Numbly, the younger woman reached out and returned the handshake.
"This way," Reed spoke, gesturing for MJ to follow. The blonde walked right next to him.
Looking around while they walked, MJ was taken aback by the different decorative art pieces they had on the walls.
"Here's the lab," Reed explained as they entered the room. "We found someone recently," the older man continued, turning around to face MJ. "We thought you should know.'
"Found…?" she asked, her mouth going dry.
Reed nodded, turning to one of their monitors.
"… eady on this end." A voice was heard through the speakers. Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe)
Baxter Building - Same Time
And I'm ready on this end," the 'other' Reed responded.
"You ready?" the blond asked, looking at Peter.
"Umm…" the young hero swallowed. "Is 'no' an option?" Reed narrowed his eyes. "No is not an option."
Having a problem over there?" the 'other' Reed asked. He looked at MJ, noticing how she was squinting now.
I recognize that voice," she said clearly.
On his end, Peter blinked in recognition too… which coincided with the monitors and cameras coming to life.
The two adult looked at each other.
MJ's mouth dropped open, her eyes filling with tears. "Is…" She looked at Reed. "Is this real?" she asked, her voice quivering.
Peter frowned as he watched his ex-fiancée tearing up on the screen in front of him.
It is," Susan assured her, pulling her into a hug.
"How are you handling this?" Reed asked, in a low enough voice for Peter to hear.
The webswinger nodded. "Fine," he replied, his voice quiet. This moment… was one that he had anticipated for some time, but now that it was here, he was surprised. He worried that some feelings would still be lingering for MJ…
But when he searched deep inside… nothing could be found.
Jen was in his heart now. She had moved in so easily, fitting like a puzzle piece. He understood now why things had seemed so 'empty' when he was with MJ. While he looked at returning home with apprehension, he knew that an unconscious question that had lingered in his mind… was answered.
How?" the redhead asked.
Both scientists spoke at the same time… with the same inflection. "Through the blip."
Through the blip."
Mary Jane looked at the Reed she was in the room with-and the one she could see on the monitor. Her brows creased in confusion… and worry. "That's… something," she replied. "But where are you, Peter?"
He frowned. "I'm in a universe that's closely paralleled to the one you're in."
How… H-How did you get there?"
Sucking in a deep breath and letting it out in a loud sigh, Peter folded his arms. "That's… a very long story."
"… Are you going to be able to come back?" she asked. The redhead sincerely hoped his answer to that would be 'yes.'
"Yes, I will," he replied, startled to see the blinding smile she gave him. Resisting the urge to smile back, he cleared his throat. "I heard there were some serious issues going on over there. Peter glanced to the scientist standing next to MJ."
That's true. There's a virus outbreak in small pockets of the city… but we're not sure how it even got here. The CDC issued warnings about it and tips to avoid it."
Brows rising, Peter looked at the Reed in the room with him. "That's more than a 'little' problem."
The blond nodded in agreement.
We're facing pressure to assure the public they're safe and to actually maintain order here." Reed added.
"Have you been able to reach anyone else?" he asked. "I know Jennifer's not well… but what about Bruce?" he noticed how the other man flinched at the name.
Avengers, Defenders, The Guardians, New Mutants, Young Avengers. We reached out to Red Hulk and Red She-Hulk. We contacted the X-Men for aid along with even the Dark Avengers…"
That was news to Peter. "Why would you try to contact the Dark Avengers?" he asked. That group was as far from being good as a guppy was from being a mountain lion.
We have a common enemy right now, Peter," he replied.
"This… 'virus' you mentioned… What makes it so different-that you needed me to come and assist?"
It seems to be an upgraded and contagious version of the 'Goblin Virus.'"
Peter stiffened up. "Upgraded?" he asked. "I though the virus was eradicated."
We did too," Reed replied. "But someone… with way too much money… decided that they would try to not just revive it, but make it stronger."
Peter shook his head.
It's certainly stronger. The first subject is currently under medical supervision."
"Is… how dangerous is this virus? And who is the first subject?"
Who else, Peter? Norman Osborn."
Peter grimaced at that. Why would…
The virus so far is known to cause at times severe fevers," Reed looked away for a moment. "There were other test subjects, but not all of them sought medical attention… and most had no idea they would get so sick."
Peter shook his head. "I think…" he spoke, making a decision. "I won't be able to come over to help combat that virus," he shook his head. "It's a bad idea."
Yes," Reed replied. "Reed told me that you want the three of you to come together?" He missed the sudden scrutiny he was receiving from Mary Jane.
"Yeah," Peter replied. Remembering that MJ was there, he directed his attention to her. "That was why I wanted to speak to you, Mary Jane."
She nodded faintly. "About coming back here?" she asked, her voice rough.
"Umm…" Peter sighed and paused for a moment. "Things will be different when and if I come back," he looked directly at Reed. "We can't be involved with the virus, but anything else…"
Understood," the older man replied.
"Mary Jane," Peter continued, looking at her again. He hesitated, taking in her features. She didn't look well… but he wasn't going to focus on that. "Things will be very different. Do you understand?"
What do you mean?" she asked.
"I know the house is gone," he replied. "So, for one, I'll be living somewhere else."
No, the house isn't gone," MJ replied. Seeing Peter's confusion, she elaborated. "I claimed it, so it wouldn't be lost…"
"Oh…" the young hero spoke, very surprised.
I kept it because… Because I wanted us to try again," the redhead spoke, not noticing the alarm on the faces of both Reeds. "I was stupid, Tiger," she sighed. "Very stupid to just throw you away like I did."
"Umm… That's part of the changes, MJ."
Brows pinching together, MJ tried to understand. try again?" she asked. "Peter…"
Peter felt bad, hearing the pleading on her voice.
I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you," relaxed. "I'm so very sorry for what I did."
"You don't want to her features
Peter folded his arms. She needs to get this out… he realized.
I haven't been doing too well since you… left." the redhead admitted. "But I promise that I-"
Peter vigorously shook his right hand, waiting for her to stop speaking.
Uncomfortable, MJ grew silent.
"As I said," Peter continued. "Things are different now. I can't be together with you, Mary Jane. Ever." He easily read the pain in her eyes. "I'm married to someone else," he intimated.
MJ covered her mouth with her hands, green eyes wide. The tears in her eyes overflowed, trickling down her cheeks. She started to shake her head, in denial, not believing what she was hearing.
"We're having a baby as well," he added. Swallowing hard, he watched as the woman he at one time planned to marry… broke in front of him.
Dropping to her knees, Mary Jane screamed, sobs racking her body. Susan rushed over to her side.
"… I think it best we end this call here," the blond spoke, keeping his tone light.
The 'other' Reed nodded. "I think so too." He looked over his shoulder and turned the sound off first before closing the connection.
Sighing, Reed turned around.
Peter was still standing, his arms folded. His eyes were wet. He'd never heard a sound like that from MJ ever . It hurt to see her in pain.
But…
He wasn't going to satisfy any wishes she had. While his intention had been to explain his situation more smoothly, her reactions necessitated blunt honesty.
Moving closer, Reed clapped a hand onto Peter's shoulder. "How are you handling all this?" He asked again, frowning. The older man wasn't entirely certain of how Mary Jane and Peter had been in his universe but… I wonder if they were ever involved here… There was no way to tell really. Not unless he sought out Mary Jane Watson.
Something inside told him to leave well enough alone.
Exhaling, Peter let his muscles relax, not having realized that he was so tense before. "I'll be fine," he replied. "I've just… never seen her like that." He hoped to never hear a sound like that either… ever again.
"It was bound to happen," Reed gently explained. "It was better she know sooner rather than later."
Understanding, the young hero nodded. "I suppose it's nearly time for Jen to try again?" he asked, feeling weary.
Dealing with Mary Jane and the complicated feelings around her had proved to be more trying than he'd anticipated. His sole focus though… was his wife and unborn child.
"Yes," Reed replied. "Sue is getting her ready now."
Letting out a loud sigh, Peter turned around and began walking towards the medical lab.
Reed quietly followed him. 11:45AM
"Are you sure this is safe?" Jen asked. She was currently lying still on the bed as Susan set cooling gel packs on her chest and belly.
"Yes," the brunette answered. "The problem we ran into might have been due to overheating."
Peter looked closely, holding a cold rag in his right hand. He was positioned behind Jen again, a pan of ice-cold water right there for him to dip the rag into.
"That's… true," the green woman conceded. She sighed, feeling when Peter gently rubbed her side. "Thanks," she murmured.
"Anytime," Peter replied, smiling faintly.
"Calibrating the scanners," Reed announced. "Hold off for a moment, Jen."
Swallowing nervously, Jennifer nodded. Still, she was trembling, knowing how much this was going to hurt.
Peter leaned over her and spoke into her ear. "It'll be just fine," he promised, his voice low and gentle.
Feeling more at ease, Jennifer replied in the same soft tone of voice. "Thank you."
"Okay, scanners are operational," Reed announced.
Susan moved to help in observing the monitors.
"Nothing to squeeze, Stretch?" she asked, trying to crack a smile.
"We have no more space in the budget," the older man replied, deadpanned.
Jennifer snorted softly, and then she braced herself. Closing her eyes, she started searching for that part of herself that was locked away. Human Jen needs to come back, she reminded herself. For once, her human side was the safer of both of them.
A split second later, she began groaning, in pain from the sensation of her organs responding.
Peter immediately rested the cold rag on her forehead, resting a hand on her shoulder. He squeezed gently, offering silent support.
Susan swallowed hard, watching as the readings on the monitors began to rise again.
Reed was watching as well, but he was relieved to see the climb wasn't as severe as the day before.
The green woman howled in agony, green light shining from within her eyes.
Seeing that, Peter held his breath momentarily. He wanted to sigh in relief, but held back.
"Focus Jen!" Susan spoke, urging her friend on.
"It's…" her voice dissolved into additional groans, eyes widening at the sensation of everything rearranging itself again.
Reed bit his bottom lip, watching as the readings were nearing the halfway point now.
Peter, fortunately, wasn't looking at the monitors. Removing the rag from Jen's forehead, he dipped it in the icy water before wringing it dry and putting it back in place.
"It hurts!" she shrieked, feeling pain from all directions. She worried how the baby felt, with her home being manipulated. "Stop it!" Jen sobbed, her body trembling even more. The pressure she felt building up in her head was becoming too much to bear.
Everything was straining.
Sweat broke out on Peter's forehead, his hands trembling. He wanted to help more than he was… but knew he couldn't interfere.
Seeing the reading rising sharply had the scientist on edge. He couldn't interrupt her in the middle of her transformation though.
Jennifer whimpered, tears streaming from her eyes. Gradually, her internal organs were moving back to their original locations and sizes. Then, she abruptly felt her belly jutting forward as her uterus- which was at one point buried under her muscles… was pushed back to the fore.
Reed blinked, watching as the monitor readings began to lower back down.
Peter let out a heavy sigh then, looking over Jen, meeting her eyes as she glanced up at him.
"Very good!" Sue spoke, smiling over at Jen.
"Yeah," the brunette remarked, grateful for all of the cold packs put on her. She relaxed for a moment, then stiffened, eyes widening suddenly. "Umm…"
"Is something wrong?" Peter asked, brows pinching together.
"I think… I might have," she squirmed. "Umm… h-had an accident." The surface under her was growing uncomfortably wet.
Peter immediately looked at the foot of the bed she was on. He exchanged looks with Reed and Sue. "Just a little, Jenny. I'll help you get cleaned up." After he spoke, he removed the cold packs, picked her up in his arms and took her directly to the bathroom.
"I'll deal with this in here," Reed remarked after he was sure the bathroom door was closed, moving over to one of the long cabinets and extracting a roll of paper towels.
"I'll help," Sue offered. He offered him a half grin. The couple quietly cleaned up the examination table.
In the bathroom, Jennifer was sobbing the entire time Peter was undressing her. "I'm sorry!" she wailed, her face reddish, and feeling humiliated beyond belief.
"Jenny!" he responded, elevating his voice just a little. When he noticed her quieting, he gave her a peck on the cheek. "I'm not mad. You didn't mean to do that."
"But…" she whimpered. "Pete…"
"Shh…" he responded, helping her step into the shower. May 17 th - 6AM
Manhattan, New York
Neat.
Groomed.
That was today's order of business.
Then fun .
He squinted at the date on his wristwatch. Hmm… May 17 th . Exactly the day he'd had plans for.
Prepared for the cold day, he zippered up his jacket.
Sighing softly as he scratched his bearded face, Peter checked his appearance in the mirror once more before stepping outside his small, cramped room. He smiled, enjoying the warmth of the rising sun caressing his skin. Stretching, he let out a wide yawn… looking forward to enjoying his day out.
I know I had something planned, he thought with a frown, sighing. Maybe if I go along and do other things today, I'll remember?
As soon as he left, he took a detour, walking quickly to a little coffee shop he'd stumbled on a week ago. Hearing the bell jingle after he stepped in, he waved at the nice older woman behind the counter.
The front of it was clear, allowing a tantalizing view of the pastries they sold.
"What can I get ya?" she asked, pulling out a notepad and pencil.
Trying not to be obvious, Peter looked closely at her briefly, managing to catch her name. "Well Patricia, I'll take a black coffee. Small."
Punching the information into her register, she lifted eyes that resembled polished steel and cleared her throat. "That'll be all?"
"Well," he squinted a bit, studying the menu. It was best for him to start the day off with something light. "An apple turnover too?"
Nodding, she added that in as well, then wrote a quick note on her notepad. "Understood. One moment sir," she punched in the rest of his order… then scowled in frustration at the screen… typing more into the system.
Peter waited patiently.
After a moment, she seemed to get through whatever problem she was having with the touchscreen and looked up at him again. "That'll be $7.69, sir."
Nodding, Peter pulled out his wallet and dug a twenty out. He handed it to her, slipping the wallet back into his pocket.
Printing out his receipt, the older woman handed it to him along with his change. Stepping away from the front counter, she walked over to a coffee brewer. Pulling out a small paper cup, she set it in place
and started pulling levers. She pushed a few buttons and waited to hear the machine kicking on. Once she did, she returned to the front counter and pulled on a pair of gloves.
Pulling a fresh paper bag out, she used one of the paper wrappers and grabbed the apple turnover from behind the glass counter. Pushing the door closed, she carefully wrapped it for him. "Here we go," she spoke, setting the bag in front of him. A beep sounded from the brewer, and she returned to the machine. Removing her gloves, she retrieved his coffee. "One small, black coffee, sir."
"Thank you," Peter replied, smiling. He looked around in the coffee shop and found himself an ideal location to sit, right near a corner window.
"Careful, sir," she spoke as he walked away. "It's hot!"
"I understand," he replied over his shoulder. Sliding into his seat, he sighed, enjoying the warmth from the shaft of sunlight filtering in. This is nice, he thought. There was no noise, no one trying to demand he do anything. Tomorrow would likely be bustling, but today?
Oh no.
It was a nice day out, even if it was unusually cold.
A few minutes passed, where he calmly fanned his coffee cup. He took the server's suggestion, feeling the outside of the paper cup intermittently, to see if it was cooling down enough. Wow, he thought. While he waited, he decided to begin eating his turnover.
The doorbell dinged again, and though he would prefer to keep his attention on the happenings outside, he reluctantly twisted in his seat to see who had come in.
The little shop was nice, but it didn't have that many customers so early in the morning.
Wait… he thought, rubbing his eyes. It couldn't be.
Strolling right in the door was himself… or rather a hairless version of himself. Right next to him was a smaller woman with dark hair.
Is that… Peter rubbed one of his eyes again. Nope, no doubt about it. He was seeing P eter Parker and Jennifer Walters in there.
With him.
They stopped at the counter and made an order, the man fidgeting just a little.
"Why are you so jumpy?" the brunette asked, smiling up at him.
He offered her a half smile. "Looking forward to my coffee… and spending time with you today." After he spoke, he leaned forward a little and pressed a kiss to her lips.
"Mmm," she purred. "Same here," Grinning, she flushed faintly at hearing the older woman clearing her throat.
"Here are your orders," she spoke, handing P eter his individual bag and giving them both their beverages.
Soundlessly, Peter watched the couple as they walked over to a different area of the shop. They apparently hadn't noticed him but they were close enough for him to hear their conversation.
"Decaf tea?" the man asked, picking her drink up. He made a face. "Uh… yeah," Jennifer responded, her cheeks still rosy. "What's
wrong with that?"
"Not used to seeing you drink this," P eter replied, handing her drink back to her.
"Y-Yeah, I know," she replied. "Trying to eat and drink a little healthier these days."
He snorted, leaning back in his chair and rolling his eyes. "Like you need to worry about weight, babe?" His statement came out sounding more like a question.
Peter could see how offended Jennifer looked… all before she could restrain it.
By the time the bald man sitting with her looked at her again, she had managed to pull a placid expression in place.
"You didn't even get anything to eat this morning," he grumbled. Breaking the sticky bun he'd bought in half, he offered some to her.
"N-No, that's fine." Jennifer replied, holding a hand up and looking away. She didn't even want to look at that thing. Her stomach didn't agree with the smell either.
"Your loss," he replied, stuffing the pastry into his mouth. "But you're missing out, babe," he continued speaking, bits of pastry being scattered as he spoke.
Seeing this, Jennifer swallowed hard and slid out her seat. "That's fine," she replied, her voice wobbling just a little. "I'll be right back. Need to use the girl's room."
"Whatever," he replied, waving her off.
As soon as she passed him, Jennifer clapped a hand over her mouth and sprinted to the bathroom, being as quiet as she could be.
Frowning and stroking his beard, Peter resisted the urge to get up and see to her. It bothered him, the longer he sat there and watched her… What was this man to her, exactly?
Whoever he was, he was certainly sloppy, taking to loudly sucking the icing off his fingers before wiping his hands off on his shirt.
Peter grimaced.
"Pete," Jennifer spoke, a few minutes later, before walking back to him. She looked a little pale, but other than that seemed fine.
"Hmm?" he asked, drinking out his coffee cup. His eyes were glued to his phone, and he was tapping away on the screen.
"Sorry about that," she said, frowning slightly as she noticed his attention was focused more on his phone than her.
"It's not a problem, Jen," he replied, nonchalant. He didn't look up.
Peter inhaled slowly, trying to contain his irritation. How could the man be that disinterested in someone?!
Jennifer bit her bottom lip, looking away momentarily. "I thought we were going to spend time together?"
Lifting his head then, one of P eter's hairless brows rose. "We are spending time together," he replied.
"I… O-Okay," the brunette replied, drinking some of her tea.
The ongoing silence coming from their table now was more distressing to the young wallcrawler than when they'd been speaking. Why are you with him? he mentally asked. Can't you find anyone else?
"Are we going anywhere else today?" she hazarded, sounding hopeful.
"Oh yeah," he replied. Once he finished sending off a message on his phone, he turned off the screen and slid it into the back pocket of his jeans. Standing then, he crushed his empty coffee cup and tossed it in the trash. "We need to get going."
"Oh? Alright." Jennifer stood, still holding her half container of tea. "You… don't need that, do you?" he asked, gesturing to her tea.
"B… W-What do you mean?" she asked. She'd just started drinking it after getting sick in the bathroom. It was helping settle her stomach.
"Let's go," he stated, reaching for the cup.
Not liking what he was seeing, Peter got out of his seat and approached the couple. "Excuse me," he spoke.
Hearing someone address him, P eter's hand stopped mid-air. "Yeah?" he asked, looking at the stranger.
Thinking fast, Peter voiced a question. "Any suggestions for good restaurants here?"
Frowning at that, and now tuning Jennifer out, P eter stroked his chin. "Hmm… For who? You or you and company?" At that, he smirked.
Swallowing down revulsion at what that might imply, Peter continued. "Me and potentially a guest."
"Come along," P eter spoke in reply. "I'll show you." That said, he walked out the front doors.
But… he'd left someone behind.
Jennifer's face fell when he left her in there. It's as if I don't exist… she pouted.
Peter felt so bad seeing that. "I guess I'll go with you guys?" he asked.
Looking at him, Jennifer offered a sad smile and nodded, drinking more of her tea.
The twosome walked out after P eter. 10:04AM
Across Town
The trio had stopped to get something to eat at a greasy spoon. Neither man was impressed, but Jennifer insisted on getting something to eat from there.
P eter argued with her while she was in line, about the lack of cleanliness in the establishment. He wasn't wrong. There was a good amount of dirt or mud near the baseboards… which at one point were white. At least he thought they were white before. That didn't mean the food wasn't safe to eat, but he kept pressing the point.
The couple ended up in a huge argument, with Jennifer stomping out the front doors, and P eter running to catch up with her.
"I don't want to hear it!" she snarled, irritated with him. He'd embarrassed her in front of the staff and other patrons.
Before he was able to respond, he heard the sounds of people screaming. Twisting himself to the left, he began running towards the sound, pulling his shirt off and revealing the 'Spider-Man' emblem on his costume. "Come on, Jenny!" he called at her, not looking back.
Instead, she hung back.
Peter frowned, looking at her. Frightened brown eyes stared up at him.
"Is…" he stopped, trying to gather his words. "Are you going with him?" Peter looked in the direction the bald… him… had run in.
Jennifer kept looking at this stranger, wondering how he wasn't shocked to discover her boyfriend was Spider-Man.
"Jennifer?" he asked.
"I… I c-can't," she replied, drawing more into herself. The reason why was what she'd wanted to tell her boyfriend today… but things
didn't go that way.
"Let's go back in there," Peter suggested, gently grasping her upper arms. "And wait this out." His gaze went back in the direction that P eter had gone.
"But…" she studied the stranger's bearded face. "What if the fighting gets here?" She was trembling.
Sighing, Peter looked at her. "You'll be fine," he replied. He offered her a warm smile. "I'll see to it."
Searching his face, Jennifer both looked and felt confused. How would he do anything? she wondered.
"I promise."
The petite brunette found herself nodding, feeling comforted by his conviction.
To help her feel better, he bought her one of the prepacked snacks from the lone vending machine there. He was extremely attentive to her, noting the relief on her face after the first bite. Folding his arms, he debated the entire situation. They'd been walking for hours with barely any breaks.
If what he thought was right, Jennifer was pregnant… by P eter. He grimaced lightly at the thought. What a horrid person to be a father.
Another half hour passed, and Jennifer had downed two more of the vending snacks before P eter returned. He was sweating heavily, having messily pulled his clothes back on over his costume. Hazel eyes zeroed in on Jennifer where she was sitting.
Feeling the scrutiny, the brunette frowned, wringing her hands together.
"What was that?!" he asked, not caring who was able to hear him. "You were here the entire time?!"
Swallowing hard, Jennifer slowly nodded.
"Some girlfriend you are!" he yelled. "I could have been mashed out there," Now, his attention turned to the stranger. "And you decided to cozy up to this bozo?" He was grinding his teeth visibly then.
Now, Peter felt the hair on his nape rise, and he stood up.
"You three need to leave," one of the staff spoke from behind the counter. The woman was very unhappy. The problem wasn't the young man and woman… but this person alone causing a ruckus.
"Who do you think you are?!" he asked, snapping at the woman. Alarmed, the staffer moved to hit the panic button under the counter.
"M… M-Maybe it's best we leave," Jennifer spoke, her voice soft. Saying nothing more, she folded her arms and walked out the front of the diner, Peter on her heels.
Inhaling sharply through his nostrils, his jaw wobbling, P eter pointed one finger at the staffer, feeling satisfaction when the woman yelped. "Be glad I'm leaving." He made it a point to pull the door in order to slam it while he was leaving.
A faint crack appeared in the glass. Seething, the staffer pressing the button.
The three continued to walk once outside. Jennifer's arms were still folded, her face red in shame.
"You didn't answer my question," the bald man pressed, thankfully not laying a finger on her.
To Peter's eyes, it seemed way too close though. What would he do if I wasn't here? he wondered, concerned for her wellbeing. "Yes," she replied, her voice still low. "I stayed in there the entire time."
"Why didn't you join me?" he asked, a hard edge to his words. "Casanova here that intriguing?" That, he directed to Peter, snarling at him.
"We just sat and waited for you to come back," the bearded man remarked.
"I understand that, idiot," he snapped. "What I was asking my girlfriend was why she didn't have my back!"
Trigger Warning ~
Pursing his lips, Peter narrowed his eyes.
"I… I can't transform," Jennifer informed him quietly. "What?" he asked, furrowing his hairless brow. "Why not?"
"I…" she cleared her throat, feeling anxious. "I have an electrical storm in my head," Jennifer noticed her boyfriend's expressions become indiscernible as he digested what she'd told him.
"Go to Bruce," P eter replied. "He can fix you."
Jennifer slowly shook her head. "I can't even find him," her features were downcast. "Even so, he couldn't help me."
Snorting, he offered another suggestion. "Then visit Reed. Egghead is one of the strongest minds out here. If anyone can fix your problem, he can."
"Uh… I-It's not a problem, Pete," she replied, crossing her arms. "Not one that can be fixed like that."
"So, what…?" he asked, "Lost your powers totally then?"
"Umm… N-No," she drew in a deep breath, avoiding eye contact. "The electrical storm in my head is why I can't transform, but…"
"But?" P eter interrupted.
Suddenly nervous, Jennifer fidgeted. "The storm is there because I'm carrying your baby."
His eyes widened for a moment, and then he started to laugh. He was laughing so hard that he bent almost completely over at the waist.
Both Peter and Jen stared at him in disbelief.
After a while, he wiped a stray tear out of his eyes. "That's a good one, Jenny."
"But…" A muscle jumped in her jaw. "It's not a joke. I'm pregnant Peter."
Peter's brows went up, but he remained quiet.
"Seriously?" P eter asked. When Jennifer nodded in confirmation, he let out a sigh of frustration.
"Yeah," she replied. She offered him a half smile. "You're gonna be a dad."
Hearing that, he shook his head. "No, I'm not," he responded, his voice firm.
Half smile faltering, Jennifer's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"
"You need money, right?" the man reached in his pocket for his wallet.
"… What?" Jennifer asked. "No, I need your help, Pete. Not your money."
"What do you need my help for?" he asked, looking at her. His voice held a hard edge to it… one that hadn't been there before.
"B… P-Pete," she began. "Your baby is why I can't change. I need you to protect me."
Here, he snorted. "No… I think you know what the real answer is for that problem…"
Jennifer swallowed hard.
"So, I give you money and you can 'take care' of this problem, huh?"
The brunette blinked a few times, her breathing unusually loud in her ears. What he was implying was that she should… "I… I-I can't," she replied, tears welling in her eyes.
"That… sounds like a you issue," P eter replied, his voice cold. "It shouldn't be a difficult decision."
"P-Pete," Jen spoke, trying to reason with him. "I can't do that. This is your baby. I can't," her voice broke. "I can't…" she sobbed. This wasn't how she expected anything to go!
"Don't know what you mean, Jen," he replied, waiting for her to look at him. "Listen to me carefully," he continued, his eyes narrowing. "I do not have any children. Especially not with you."
Jennifer gasped, tears leaving tracks down her cheeks.
Feeling his temper boiling over, Peter stepped between them, grabbing P eter by the collar on his shirt. "What is the matter with you?!" he asked, fairly yelling at him.
Smirking, the bald man laughed. "Nothing at all!" His expressions switched to a solemn one. "Jenny there is so free, willing and open…" he replied, sneering. "I doubt I would even have had a chance at being the father. Probably one of her other 'flings.' How many men are you up to now, Jen?"
Stung, Jennifer looked at him. "I… I've never cheated on you, Pete!" Her face flushed red in shame.
"He doesn't mean that," Peter added, tightening his grip on the man's collar. "He's just trying to slither away from his responsibilities."
"If she just got rid of the brat," he spat in response, "there'd be nothing to worry about at all."
A fleeting thought came to Peter then… one of a woman laughing and smiling with him, holding his hand to the side of her swollen belly. How could anyone ever… Not even thinking, he hauled off and punched the man squarely in the mouth-watching how he spun
before falling and landing in the dirt. "How could you?!" he bellowed, feeling as if something precious to him was suddenly threatened.
He wasn't going to have that .
Getting up, P eter spat on the ground, grimacing and touched his mouth. "You're toast," he spoke, hatred in his eyes. He lunged at Peter without warning, expecting to overpower him easily. What the hothead was not expecting, was for Peter to smoothly leap out of the way. "Hey!" he roared, enraged.
End Trigger Warning ~
Landing, Peter spun around. He let out a short laugh when P eter missed him again with another swing. "Not only are you a slob…" he added then, smiling at the look on the bald man's face. "But you're slipping too."
"If you'd just stay still long enough," P eter growled.
Peter whistled at that one. "No wonder you were nearly killed," he jabbed, watching at the other man's entire head turned red.
"I'm gonna kill you!" he yelled, running full speed at Peter.
All for the bearded man to leap over his head again. This time, when Peter came down, he grabbed the back of the bald man's shirt and yanked him back-forcing him into a very tight chokehold.
"N-No!" P eter gasped, trying to break the other man's hold. Fear had begun to take hold. A normal man would have been on his way to the morgue by now… but this…
Tensing his muscles, Peter spun them around until he was facing Jen.
The brunette's eyes were wide, her hands over her mouth. "Apologize!" Peter hissed in the man's ear.
"N…"
Peter eased the chokehold long enough to let the man get air and then tightened it again. He saw how P eter tried to reach behind himself at first, then struggled to break the hold around his jugular.
"I told you…" the bearded man stated, louder. " Apologize to her!" "I…"
"Now!" Peter yelled, repeating the same maneuver-letting him get a breath-to keep the bald man alive.
"S…" his voice was slurred. "S-Sorry," he managed.
"Good." Peter replied, releasing the hold. He quickly spun his counterpart around to him and punched him in the face again.
This time… the bald man hit the ground and didn't get up. He was struggling to get air to his lungs.
"You," Jennifer spoke, her eyes bright with tears. "T-Thank you…"
"Happy to help," Peter replied, smiling. He looked around then, noticing that the scenery around them was wavering.
"Go…" Jen spoke, lightly patting his cheek. "Someone's waiting for you."
"Huh?" he asked, before the images around him shattered and he found himself freefalling in the dark.
September 12 th
12:01AM
Baxter Building - Peter & Jen's room
Hazel eyes popped open and Peter gasped, reaching up momentarily… not sure what he was seeing. It didn't help matters any that the lights were turned off. Trying to catch his breath, he became aware of warmth on his right side.
Looking and reaching carefully in that direction, he soon figured out what it was. As his eyes adjusted to the dark, he found himself looking at his wife as she lay next to him-sleeping deeply. He'd never been so happy to hear someone snoring.
Swallowing, Peter pinched himself, wincing at the pain. Was… What was that? he wondered. Stiffening suddenly, he remembered something from that… whatever it was. Carefully scooting himself down in bed, he faced Jen's abdomen and carefully tugged her shirt up.
Seeing her rounded belly, he felt himself sag in relief. Just… a nightmare… he realized. If he thought about it carefully, there would have been no way for him to have ever encountered either of them back then. He was still in Dutch country that time of the year.
And in his own universe .
"Chip," he spoke, keeping his voice low. "How are you feeling today?" he asked. Tilting his head, a goofy grin spread on his face, as he imagined the baby trying to figure out how to answer his question. "Probably tired, huh?" Struggling to stifle a yawn himself, he continued speaking softly. "Our friends told us you were growing- in leaps and bounds-and they weren't joking."
Resting his fingers lightly on her side, he carefully studied the surface under his hand. I told her she was in for a surprise, he thought, eyes widening. "That takes a lot of work," he spoke, resuming his conversation. "And a lot of energy." He was thoughtful for a moment, moving closer to her skin and continuing to speak. "Please take it easy on your mama… she needs her sleep too."
"Mnn…" Jen murmured, eyes opening a crack. "Pete?" she spoke, her voice trailing off into a yawn.
"Yeah?" he replied.
Blinking a little, Jen looked down in the bed, meeting his eyes. "Having a conversation with the baby again?"
He graced her with a large smile. "Yes," he replied.
Jen reached down herself, resting her hand on top of his. "You were right," she admitted, sheepish.
"About?" he asked, lightly patting her side. "I've blown up, like a balloon in the store."
Peter sighed. She hadn't gotten that big at all, but it was a definite change from the last time he'd seen her. And… "You do have something here I haven't seen before," he murmured.
"What now?" she asked, staring at him.
"Navel's nearly out, sweetie," he replied. He saw when she moved her hand from his and felt it for herself.
"Oh my…" her eyes widened. It really was on the edge. A few more days… maybe? she wondered. Another week?
"It's cute," Peter commented, lightly rubbing her side.
Jen grimaced down at him. "What about that is cute, Pete?"
His expression became wistful. "Means we're closer to meeting Chip," he replied.
Understanding lit her eyes then, and Jen settled down, nodding in agreement. There was no way she could argue that one with him.
Scooting up to her, Peter pressed his forehead against hers. "Hey Jen."
The brunette felt her cheeks warm. "Hey Pete."
"I love you," he spoke, kissing her softly and cuddling close. Main Universe
Baxter Building
September 12 th - 9AM
"I… I don't know what to say," Susan spoke, lowering her head.
"Hey," Reed spoke, turning her to face him. "There's no need to be afraid," his eyes willed her to understand.
"But… I wish we could have done more to help her," Susan spoke softly, sniffling.
Pulling her into a tight hug, the older man observed their friend Jennifer. The green woman was mostly still in bed now, save the ventilator helping her to breathe. "Don't say it like that, Sue," Reed begged. "We don't give up on our own."
"I understand… I just don't know what happened yesterday," the blonde swallowed hard. She remembered clearly-going into the room and seeing Jennifer's eyes rolled back. The woman's left arm was reaching out… for what she was unsure.
The blonde had rushed to her friend, trying to figure out what was wrong, but just as soon as she noticed the fit, Jennifer abruptly stopped moving. Calls to rouse her went unanswered.
The memory was so raw…
"She's not dead yet, Sue," Reed replied. For Jen's safety, he'd put her into a medically induced coma, intentionally lowering the temperature in the bed to slow down her metabolism. "My most recent scans still tell me that her higher brain functions are intact."
"So, what's wrong with her?!" Susan cried, tears in her eyes. "I'll be contacting Reed soon. We can discuss this latest
development."
Were she to think of things rationally, she'd remember that her husband was Reed Richards-one of the most brilliant minds out there. He was fiercely protective of his family and friends. He'd never encountered a case where he easily gave up. So why would she?
The stress of the last few days weighed heavily on her.
Gripping handfuls of Reed's shirt, Sue pressed her face into his chest, sobbing.
Sighing, he hugged her gently, trying to reassure her with his presence alone.
11:58AM
"I wish I could say that I had better news than I do," Reed spoke, looking at his counterpart in the screen.
"… And neither of you know what happened?" the blond asked, trying to make sure he had all the information needed.
"Not at all."
Have either of you two thought of my proposal?" Peter asked. He was seated next to Reed at the console.
"We have," Reed replied, frowning. "It would be very dangerous to perform surgery on Jen when she's like this."
I concur," the blond scientist stated.
She's dead either way," Peter stated, glancing to his left then. "Hey sweetie,"
Jen came into the frame, though she was standing, her hand on Peter's shoulder. She affectionately gave it a light squeeze. "What did I miss?" she asked, moving her hand off him to better support her sandwich.
"Are you sure you want to know Jen?" Reed asked. It was so strange calling someone else by that name.
The brunette offered a thumbs up.
"We were discussing what to do with J… Uhh… Miss Walters," Reed frowned.
Peef say shomshing about surgggery?" she asked, her mouth full. Peter looked up at her. "How about you finish eating, then you can
join us again, sweetie?"
Peef, woo know I'm guwanna eaff ackta shish," she replied, raising her eyebrows.
"Umm… What is she saying?" Reed asked. He had some idea… but just to be sure.
Jen, both Reeds and I were discussing the possibility of surgery for Jennifer."
The brunette considered this, taking another bite of her sandwich.
Reed and I know that surgery has a high probability of death for her."
Finishing her mouthful, Jennifer sighed. "She'll die without the surgery, right?"
Both Reeds looked at each other.
There are two options, gentlemen," the brunette noted.
Peter straightened up where he sat, recognizing how Jen's tone had changed.
"We're listening," Reed replied.
Do the surgery, and she might live," her brows furrowed. "Your second option is not to do the surgery and she will definitely die." After a moment, she lightly shrugged. "You can decide what you wish, gentlemen… but the clock is ticking." To the brunette, the solution was a simple one… but with these two…
The blond frowned.
Tick tock." Jen stated, before biting into the sandwich again.
Clearing his throat, Peter stood, resting a hand on Jen's hip and turning to her. "I'm beginning to wonder why I was called in here," he muttered, following her when she walked out of frame.
"I suppose," Reed spoke, looking at his blond counterpart, "That I'm hesitant to do anything. I don't want her to die on my watch."
"Darling…"
"No," he replied, lowering his eyes. "I know what I have to do." He glanced at the monitor. "Thanks for all your help, Reed!"
No problem," the blond replied. "I wish I was able to help in person."
"No, what you've done is enough!" the scientist responded.
The call lasted a little longer before both men hung up.
"Sue?" Reed spoke, staring off-to where, even he didn't know.
"Yes?"
"We need to prep… for surgery."
Susan nodded silently, going to retrieve her brother and Ben. They were all friends… and friends stayed with you until either they or you lost your life.
Thirty Minutes Later…
"First incision…" Reed spoke, standing a short distance from Jens' still body, operating with a surgical robot. The plan was simple… Instead of trying to find a way to subdue the symbiote, they were just going to have to remove it.
The only problem was its location… and an errant cut could spell disaster for Jen.
Behind his mask, Reed grimaced as the adamantium laced knife separated her skin and muscles easily. His touch was very light, his eyes widening when he neared something that looked like a filthy shade of gold. He made certain to avoid it at first as he continued to cut through the skin.
Susan was closer, using gentle suction to clean up Jen's blood. An IV line ran from the machine directly into the green woman's right wrist. The machine would clean debris out of the She-Hulk's blood
and use two additional solutions to clean her blood out more thoroughly-before putting it right back into her body through the use of an infusion bag. She saw the strange shape before Reed did, but had already moved the suction away. There could be no margin for error, and the blonde had stopped before Reed finished cutting through the muscle layer. She didn't want to risk any of the symbiote's cells getting transferred directly back into Jennifer's body.
Reed was beginning to sweat, grateful when Johnny blotted his forehead with a small towel. Once Reed had cut completely around the strange form, he drew in a deep breath before beginning extraction. He noticed how the creature grabbed the end of the robot's scalpel, trying to pull it away.
A dull noise reached everyone's ears then, the hum of the heart monitor beginning to sound out warnings.
"Reed," Ben spoke, having been tasked with observing the readings on the monitor. "We have to stop!"
"No!" the scientist argued back, grinding his teeth behind his mask. "We need to keep going!"
"Reed, her body can't take it!" Susan warned, seeing the same warning indicators on the screen.
Ignoring them, the older man kept working at it. The symbiote extended a handless arm, moving more of its body toward the arm of the robot, trying to stop it.
The monitors screamed out another warning before they all heard the sound of Jennifer's heart rate becoming dangerously irregular on the monitor, speeding up to the extent that all four chambers weren't able to perform properly.
All of them knew that the organ had already endured almost all it could handle due to the symbiote… and this surgery seemed to be tipping it over the edge.
"Reed!" Susan screamed.
"Begin resuscitation measures. Only use the AED," he replied, not looking at any of them. The man knew, with growing dread… that if he stopped, the entity would only intensify its attack on their friend's body.
And… what if he was making a mistake by not calling for CPR first? "But…"
"No chest compressions," he replied with a growl.
Johnny hurried over to the portable machine, which had been waiting in the room-just in case. The young man started getting the device ready, scrambling to grab a few more supplies.
Everyone backed away from Jen… everyone save Reed Richards and his robotic arm.
Cairo, Egypt
EgyptAir Terminal September 12 th , 6PM
Wiping her nose, a slight woman with vibrant red hair walked down the corridor, tucking her ticket into the breast pocket of her uniform. Her crew had a flight today, and she needed to be prepared. She'd been having a rough few days, but had attributed it to being on the go nonstop for days. I need to take a vacation after this, she internal grumbled.
Light gray eyes sparkled merrily as she continued her walk. Fortunately, she'd left early, having anticipated traffic. Nearing the gate, she sighed wearily. It didn't make any sense at all.
Fatigue had crept in and even when she managed to rest… really if she could rest at all, it never seemed like it was enough. Going
through the regular check points, she boarded her plane.
"Long day?" of the male flight attendants asked, already at his post. "Pfft," she snorted. "Luke, define what a 'day' is, again?"
The two shared a laugh. They were both in for a long couple of days. "So how was it in the Netherlands?" he asked, grinning.
Scowling at him, she shook her head. "Cold," she replied. "Wet…" she murmured, irritated. For some reason, she'd also felt angry since leaving the US to head to the Netherlands. She wasn't able to enjoy her time at all before having to attend to another flight… and now she was here. She sneezed then, catching it in her elbow.
"Ewww," he stated, grimacing. "You need to clean your sleeve off before anyone else comes on board, Grace."
"I know, I know," she muttered. She absolutely hated using the bathrooms on aircraft, but had to concede, walking towards the first- class bathroom. "I'll be right back!" she called, stepping into the room.
At least… business class had much cleaner facilities. Still…
Removing her jacket, she stepped over to the sink, preparing to lightly soap and clean the section of her sleeve.
The mirror in front of her sudden seemed to be swaying to and fro. Pausing, Grace stopped to rub her eyes. She felt dizzy. Not enough sleep! she moaned in her mind. She really, really needed to take some time off… at least to rest. Taking another step towards the mirror, she watched curiously as the mirror continued to move and then seemed to split into two.
Groaning, the small woman collapsed, beads of sweat visible on her forehead.
Hearing the commotion, Luke, approached the bathroom door, rapping on the door with his knuckles. "Everything okay in there?" he asked, waiting patiently. Three minutes later, he became concerned- deciding to ignore decorum-and forced the door open.
He was shocked to see Grace lying on the floor. "Hey!" he called, dropping to his knees. Fortunately, he saw the steady rise and fall of her chest, but when he felt her forehead… she felt like she was burning up. "Wake up!" he added. Not hearing a response, he pulled his mobile phone from his pocket and made a call for emergency services.
Luke had no way to know what was happening to his friend, but it was bad. Is she sick? he wondered, in growing alarm. If she had been ill, she should have called out for today… but he knew their company could be harsh on their employees for taking any personal time at all.
Considering the circumstances… If she's sick… He suddenly wondered if she was carrying something that was infectious. Swallowing hard, he thought about everything she could have done before making it to the airport.
This… wasn't good.
Parallel Worlds - Parallel Lives (Alternate Universe) Communal Entertainment Room
8PM
Reclining on the sofa, Jennifer yawned, feeling relaxed. They'd just finished dinner and-as per usual-she'd eaten more than what would be considered normal for some, but was normal for her.
Peter dropping into his seat next to her. He lightly flexed his hands, the fingers a little wrinkled from doing the dishes. "Feeling sleepy?" he asked, resting his hand on her belly.
Jen nodded, blinking slowly. "I could do with some sleep," she blushed a bit then. "After I can get up. I'm very full right now." But everything was so good…" she licked her lips, a smile in place.
Wisely not immediately responding to her commentary on her own gastronomic exploits, Peter just gently rubbed the surface under his hand. "I guess we can both stay here for a bit.
Johnny dropping into a seat right next to Peter. "Or…" the young brunet offered, waggling his eyebrows, "We can watch the newest flick that came out." Without waiting for either of them to respond, he held out the remote and turned the television on.
To Be Continued…
What's happening next chapter? Preview:
Most of us toe the line between normalcy and complete chaos. It all comes down to what we want to do really." The costumed woman walked to Liz's bed and plopped down on it.
I…"
Come here," the jester requested, crooking one finger. "Take a seat… and let's review all of the chaos that you've thrown others into."
Pale brows twitched in reaction. Liz didn't want to do it. Agreeing to sit with… that person seemed like a very bad idea. "Uhh… No thanks," she replied, turning away.
Only to be startled at seeing the jester right in front of her.
Now, it's rude to turn your back on your guests… don't you think?"
I didn't ask you to join me in here," Liz retorted. "So, you should be able to understand that I've never viewed you as welcome in any
way, shape or form."
Ooh," the jester mocked her, shaking upraised hands in feigned fear. "So scary!"
Author's Note: Ugh! I made it! You made it! We all made it!
Someone mentioned that the power scaling in this story was unrealistic. Unfortunately, what I've found with Spider-Man comics and movies is that his actual strength really is all over the place. In a comic, he survived being crushed under an entire building… one that had several tons of metal and steel. In a movie, he lost consciousness after using his spider webs to stop a speeding train.
He's beaten the Hulk before, if I remember right. In other instances, he barely survives encounters with him.
So… yeah.
On A Serious Note: I was extremely worried about being able to update at all a few days ago. Had a nasty medical scare that landed me overnight in the ER between January 29th to the 30th.
Imagine that… being in the emergency room and the third thought you have is worry over your readers not getting the newest chapter.
Y'know… Behind worry of ever being able to talk or walk correctly again.
Fortunately, I managed to pull through… primarily due to-as a friend stated-being young. What sucks is that the doctors had no clue what caused any of it.
There's a big ole question mark in my medical paperwork.
Anyway, I hope you all like the new chapter. I have some extra ideas coming down the pipe. And unlike last time-I'M WRITING THEM DOWN!
Still several chapters to go y'all! How many?
Geesh. Not even I know. Best!
~J. Lyst