Author's Note: My people! I'm creating yet another Spider-Man fanfic. Obviously, if you've read the summary, this is a Spider-ManXStorm story, and boy oh boy, this ship is rare. It's the main reason why I wanted to do this. As a quick note, this is my own created universe, but I am taking inspiration from other things. I don't wanna waste too much time, so I hope you guys enjoy the chapter!

Webs of Lightning

Intro Music: Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man - Neighbor Like Me

Chapter 1: Invitation

New York City

BGM: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse - Sunflower Instrumental

The city skyline stretched before Peter Parker as he swung from one building to the next, his webbing shooting out from his wrists with a precision he had mastered over the years. His mind, always in a whirlwind, was momentarily at peace, carried by the familiar rhythm of his patrol. The cool night air whipped against his face, and despite the exhaustion beginning to settle in his bones, he couldn't help but feel the usual thrill of the swing.

"Another day of swinging through the concrete jungle," Peter muttered under his breath, flashing a grin, "Not sure if it ever gets old. But man, it's tiring."

He twisted in mid-air, leaping between buildings, and continued his usual round, chasing down small-time crooks and making sure that the streets stayed safe. The city, for the most part, had grown accustomed to the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. Peter, on the other hand, was still trying to figure out how to juggle this life—the life of Spider-Man—and his life as Peter Parker.

"It's always a challenge," Peter mused aloud. "How does anyone manage two identities like this? Well, I manage, I guess. At least... mostly manage, anyway." He grinned sheepishly to himself.

His thoughts briefly turned to the chaos of his day: the endless photos for the Daily Bugle, balancing college, and, of course, the endless crime fighting. All while trying not to get his Aunt May worried about him. Balance was hard to achieve, to put it lightly.

Peter's mind kept wandering as he continued to swing toward his apartment, which had long become his sanctuary. There, he could drop the mask and just be Peter. He was looking forward to it tonight—maybe a box of pizza, his favorite old movie, and just some time to himself.

The wind hit his face, and he felt a moment of peace, but as his apartment building came into view, he couldn't help but feel the familiar weight of the evening on his shoulders. He shot another web and coasted toward his open window. He could already imagine the feeling of his bed, that sweet, comfortable mattress, and the soft pillow waiting for him.

"Just a few more swings... then it's time to crash," he said to himself as he closed in on the window.

Landing softly on the sill and entering his apartment, he quickly tugged off his mask, letting out a relieved sigh. "Ahh, I missed you, bed," he said, collapsing onto it, burying his face in the pillow. He stretched out, his limbs sore from the constant movement.

For a moment, he let himself sink into the softness of his mattress, forgetting about the world outside. The rush of adrenaline from his last fight slowly faded away, leaving behind the calm quiet of his apartment.

But just as Peter was about to fully let go, a knock at his door interrupted the silence.

KNOCK KNOCK!

Peter groaned, lifting his head from the pillow. "You've gotta be kidding me," he mumbled, sitting up. Who could possibly be at the door this late? He reluctantly threw on a hoodie and sweatpants over his Spider-Man suit before shuffling to the door.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm coming," he called out, rubbing his eyes.

He opened the door to find none other than his landlord, Mr. Ditkovich. The older man, perpetually grumpy but with a soft spot for Peter, was standing in the hallway, holding a letter.

"Peter," Mr. Ditkovich said, his voice gruff as usual, "I have mail for you." He handed over the envelope with a slight nod.

Peter smiled, accepting the letter. "Thanks, Mr. Ditkovich. Appreciate it."

Mr. Ditkovich waved him off. "Ah, it's no big deal. But, hey, if you really want to thank me, maybe you could pay your rent on time for once. And maybe, just maybe, buy me a pizza sometime. You know, for all my hard work dealing with you."

Peter chuckled, shaking his head. "I'll keep that in mind, Mr. D. I'll definitely think about that pizza."

They exchanged a brief but familiar smile before Peter closed the door, standing in the hallway for a moment. He looked down at the envelope, curiosity stirring in his chest.

"What's this?" he muttered to himself.

He tore open the envelope and pulled out a small, embossed card. As he read the message, his eyes widened in surprise.

You're invited to a celebration for Professor Charles Xavier's birthday. Join the X-Men for a night of celebration, fun, and camaraderie. We hope you can attend!

Peter blinked. The X-Men. Of course. He had worked with them on several occasions, and they were among the few who knew his secret identity—along with the Fantastic Four, of course. The thought of being invited to celebrate with the X-Men was humbling. He had always admired them, and Professor Xavier had been a guiding figure to him in many ways.

Peter sat down on the couch, the card still in his hands. The idea of a party, a chance to unwind, and be with other heroes... it felt like just what he needed. He smiled to himself, his earlier fatigue forgotten.

"Yeah," Peter said quietly, nodding a bit. "Maybe a party is just what I need."

The X-Mansion

BGM: Starship - Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now

A few days passed since Peter had received his invitation to Professor Xavier's birthday, and the night had finally arrived. The X-Mansion was alive with celebration, the usual peaceful ambiance of the mansion now filled with the warm hum of laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. It was a rare moment of serenity for the X-Men—a brief respite from the chaos of their heroics. The walls were adorned with birthday decorations, colorful streamers, and banners that read "Happy Birthday, Professor Xavier!" The mansion was transformed into a festive hub, brimming with love and appreciation for the mentor who had always stood by them.

Peter Parker swung through the night, his Spider-Man suit tightly clinging to his body. He had decided to wear the costume to the party—not out of necessity, but to remain cautious. After all, even if the X-Men knew his secret identity, there could be other heroes at the party. He wasn't about to let anyone else learn the truth.

Landing smoothly in front of the X-Mansion, Peter stood up, the birthday present for Charles Xavier securely held in his hands. He took a moment to glance at the mansion, his eyes taking in the lavish decorations.

"Wow, they really went all out," Peter mused with a small chuckle under his breath. He smiled beneath his mask, appreciating the effort the X-Men had put into celebrating their beloved professor's special day.

As he approached the grand entrance, the sounds of laughter and merriment growing louder, he couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth. This wasn't just a party for Charles. It was a gathering of family—a family of heroes who had each found a place with Professor Xavier, no matter how different they were. And, as strange as it was to admit, Peter had become a part of that family too.

He entered the mansion, weaving through the halls and admiring the festive atmosphere. Everywhere he looked, the X-Men were enjoying themselves—some engaged in conversation, others playing games, and a few even dancing. The place felt like an oasis of normalcy, a rare thing for people with extraordinary powers and burdens.

It wasn't long before Peter heard a familiar voice calling his name.

"Well, look who decided to show up," Logan said with a smirk, approaching Peter. His arms were crossed, a casual but amused expression on his face. "Glad you made it, web-head."

Peter turned toward him, grinning under his mask. "Not used to hearing you say that, Logan," he teased, his voice light. "I thought you were gonna pretend you didn't even notice I was here."

Logan rolled his eyes but didn't seem to mind the jab. "Yeah, well, it's not every day I get to see Spider-Man at a birthday party. Makes things more... interesting."

Peter chuckled, shifting the present in his hands. "Speaking of which, I've got a gift for Charles. Can you point me in his direction?"

Logan nodded, motioning for Peter to follow him. "Yeah, sure. Come on, I'll take you to him."

As the two walked through the bustling mansion, Peter casually asked, "So, any other heroes show up tonight?"

Logan shook his head. "Nah, the Fantastic Four and the Avengers are all tied up with their own stuff. Guess it's just us and a few other familiar faces tonight."

Peter nodded thoughtfully. The idea of being surrounded by familiar faces was comforting. He took a moment, then decided to do what he'd been holding off on: he removed his mask. With no other heroes around and the X-Men already knowing his secret, there was no need to hide anymore. He felt a sense of relief as his face was free to breathe, no longer constricted by the mask.

"Much better," Peter muttered, flashing Logan a grin.

They made their way into the living room, where Charles Xavier, Scott Summers, and Jean Grey were chatting amicably. Upon seeing Peter, Charles' face lit up with a warm smile.

"Peter, I'm so glad you could make it," Charles said, his voice kind and inviting.

Peter returned the smile. "I'm happy to be here, Professor. Happy birthday!"

He handed over the gift he had picked out, a small but meaningful gesture. Charles accepted it with gratitude.

"Thank you, Peter," he said, his smile growing. "This means a lot to me."

Peter nodded, then turned to Scott and Jean, who greeted him with their usual warmth.

"How've you two been?" Peter asked, genuinely curious.

Scott grinned slightly. "Oh, you know. Same old chaos. It never really ends, does it?"

Jean chuckled and added, "Exactly. That's why we need nights like tonight. A little peace and fun in between all the madness."

Peter nodded in agreement. "I hear that," he said, about to say more when he was suddenly interrupted by an all-too-familiar voice.

"SPIDEY! HUG ME, BROTHA!"

Peter turned in time to see none other than Deadpool charging toward him, a wild grin under his mask. Before Peter could even react, Deadpool scooped him up in a bear hug, lifting him off the ground with startling strength.

The room burst into laughter, Charles, Scott, and Jean included. Even Logan cracked a smirk at the spectacle.

"Deadpool, seriously?" Peter groaned, though a small smile tugged at his lips as he went on to pat the top of Deadpool's head. "It's nice to see you too."

Deadpool grinned ear-to-ear and set Peter back on his feet. "I made tacos! And chimichangas! You hungry?"

Peter opened his mouth to respond, almost as if he was going to decline the offer, but before he could, his stomach growled loudly, as if to answer for him.

Peter rubbed the back of his neck, his face slightly embarrassed. "Guess I am hungry."

Deadpool clapped his hands together, looking delighted. "I knew it! Follow me, my friend. I'll solve all your hunger problems in no time!"

Peter shot a glance at Logan, raising an eyebrow. "Hey, uh, Logan. You gonna save me from this?"

Internally, Logan groaned. He knew exactly where this was going, but he had a responsibility to keep an eye on Deadpool. If there was one thing he could count on, it was that Deadpool had a knack for turning simple events into chaotic disasters.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm coming," Logan muttered, reluctantly falling into step behind Peter and Deadpool.

Peter smirked, a part of him grateful for the added company. At least Logan would keep things under control... hopefully.

BGM: Eddie Murphy - Party All The Time

Deadpool led Peter and Logan to the food table, where a vast spread of tacos and chimichangas awaited them. The long table was stacked high with neatly arranged trays, each brimming with golden-brown treats, their sizzling fragrance filling the air. The smells of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and fresh toppings were almost too tempting to resist. Peter's stomach growled once again, and he could feel himself getting even more excited about the food.

"Welcome to the taco and chimichanga paradise!" Deadpool declared, throwing his arms wide, as if presenting the grandest buffet in the world.

Peter and Logan exchanged amused glances before picking up plates. They loaded up on the tacos and chimichangas, as Peter was particularly eager to dig in.

Deadpool, of course, was already ahead of them. With a swift motion, he lifted up his mask just enough to expose his mouth and immediately began stuffing his face with a taco, grinning widely as he chewed with reckless abandon.

Peter followed suit, taking a bite of one of the tacos. The instant the seasoned meat hit his taste buds, he nodded in approval, savoring the flavor. He turned to Deadpool, who was now devouring a chimichanga with equal enthusiasm.

"Okay, I gotta say," Peter began, smiling, "you did a good job with these. Really good."

Deadpool paused in his eating, clearly beaming. "Aw, shucks, you're making me blush, buddy. But wait till you try the chimichangas!" He eagerly motioned to the golden brown fried delicacies sitting on the table. "Trust me, they're chef's kiss delicious."

With a raised eyebrow, Peter grabbed a chimichanga off his own plate and took a bite. His expression immediately shifted to one of surprise and delight. The crisp outside gave way to the juicy filling, and Peter's eyes lit up.

"Okay, yeah," Peter said, nodding in approval, "these are amazing."

Deadpool's smirk widened, proud of himself. "Told ya! It's like I'm a taco and chimichanga-making wizard."

Logan, who had already eaten his fill earlier, couldn't resist taking another taco and chimichanga. He chewed thoughtfully before looking at Deadpool and saying, "If there's one thing you can do right, Bub, it's making tacos and chimichangas."

Deadpool's eyes widened dramatically as if Logan had just given him the highest compliment of his life. "Wow, Logan! I... I don't know what to say! Your words mean so much to me!" He placed a hand dramatically over his heart, as if struck by the weight of the praise. "I'll cherish this moment forever."

Peter chuckled at the exchange, watching the banter between the two of them. Despite the ridiculousness, he could feel the easy camaraderie. It was moments like this that made everything else fade away. For a while, he didn't need to be Spider-Man, didn't need to worry about the chaos in his life. He was just Peter Parker, eating tacos with some of his closest friends.

As they continued eating, Deadpool suddenly glanced at Peter with a curious expression. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand before asking, "So, Parker, how's life been treating ya?"

Peter, still chewing, paused and then shrugged. "Well, I'm fighting the usual Parker Luck, but hey, I'm still standing."

Deadpool nodded thoughtfully, though there was a gleam of mischief in his eyes. "Fighting that Parker Luck, huh?" he repeated. "Sounds like you could use some extra luck on your side. I do have a question, though."

Deadpool soon leaned in closer, eyes narrowing as he regarded Peter with a sly grin. "Do you have a girlfriend?"

Peter's eyes widened slightly, and for a moment, he seemed to freeze mid-bite. He set his taco down, giving a small sigh. "No, I don't. Dating just... isn't really in the cards for me right now."

As Peter spoke, his eyes inadvertently found their way across the room, where a striking figure caught his attention. Ororo Munroe—Storm—stood among a small group of mutants, laughing softly at something one of them had said. She looked as beautiful and radiant as ever, her long, curly white hair catching the light from the party's decorations.

Peter didn't realize he had gotten quiet until Deadpool and Logan both noticed his gaze. Both men exchanged knowing smirks, their eyes darting between Peter and Storm.

Logan, ever the instigator, grinned. "Well, there she is," he said, nudging Peter with an elbow. "Why don't you go talk to her?"

Peter snapped out of his daze, turning to Logan with wide eyes. "What? No, no way," he said quickly, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Storm is way out of my league. There's no chance she'd want to talk to me."

Deadpool, surprised by Peter's response, raised an eyebrow. "Wait, what? Dude, I've seen the women you've dated before, and trust me, you're way more charming than you give yourself credit for."

He dramatically motioned to Peter as if he were some sort of love expert. "Even with your rent always being late, somehow, the ladies still flock to you! You're like a magnet for attractive women. Don't sell yourself short!"

Peter flushed slightly, a quiet laugh escaping his lips. He knew Deadpool had a point—somehow, despite his many shortcomings and awkwardness, he had managed to get dates with some truly incredible women. But still, the idea of approaching someone like Storm, especially when she was surrounded by a crowd, made his stomach knot.

Peter sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Maybe you're right... but still, I don't think I'm the guy she'd want to talk to."

Seeing Peter's hesitation, Deadpool clapped him on the back, his grin turning mischievous. "You know what? I've got this." He finished the last bite of his chimichanga and pulled his mask back down, a glint of determination in his eyes. "I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere!"

Before Peter or Logan could stop him, Deadpool spun around and bolted off toward the party's lively crowd.

"Wait, what's he doing?" Peter asked, frowning.

Logan crossed his arms, looking toward the direction Deadpool had gone. "I don't know, but I've got a bad feeling about this." he said, while exclaiming to Deadpool, "You better not blow anything up, Wade!"

Deadpool's voice rang back from across the room. "Don't worry, Logan! No explosions today!"

As Deadpool strutted confidently into the center of the X-Mansion's main hall, he took in the sight of the lively party. Mutants danced, laughed, and enjoyed themselves, but something was missing. His masked eyes darted toward the turntable sitting unattended in the corner of the room. A slow, mischievous grin crept onto his face as he cracked his knuckles dramatically.

"It's my destiny to become DJ Pool tonight," he muttered to himself, rubbing his hands together with excitement.

Peter and Logan, watching from the food table, instantly felt a sense of dread settle in their stomachs. They exchanged worried glances, both silently hoping that whatever Deadpool was about to do wouldn't involve fireworks, explosions, or... well, any classic Deadpool nonsense.

Deadpool grabbed the microphone attached to the turntable and tapped it twice to test it. The slight boom boom of the speakers immediately drew everyone's attention.

"Ahem, attention, my fellow mutants and honorary web-head!" he called out, his voice echoing throughout the hall. "It is I, your friendly neighborhood Deadpool—tonight's official DJ and self-proclaimed romance expert!"

Peter's eyes widened slightly, and Logan shook his head with a deep sigh.

"Oh no," Peter mumbled.

Deadpool continued, "Now, I've been watching you guys party hard all night—and don't get me wrong, you've been killing it out here, but I say it's time to slow things down. That's right, folks! Grab a partner, because it's time for a good ol'-fashioned slow dance!"

BGM: Roger - I Want To Be Your Man

With a flourish, he reached for the turntable and switched the upbeat music to something softer, something smooth. The once energetic party quickly adjusted to the sudden shift in atmosphere as the melody filled the air. Mutants all around started pairing up—some shyly, others eagerly—settling into slow, rhythmic movements with their chosen partners.

Peter, standing near Logan, immediately realized what Deadpool was trying to do. His gaze instinctively drifted toward Storm. There she was, still standing with some of her fellow mutants, talking and laughing, completely unaware that Peter was now faced with a choice.

Logan, having observed Peter's hesitation, smirked. "Well, kid?"

Peter exhaled through his nose, but this time, his hesitation faded. A look of determination filled his eyes.

"I got this," Peter said, a small smile forming on his face.

Logan gave a single approving nod, and without another word, Peter stepped forward, making his way toward Storm.

As he approached, the group of mutants she was talking to gradually noticed him, and Ororo herself turned to see him standing there. Her expression softened into a warm smile.

"Hello, Peter," she greeted, her voice like a gentle breeze. "Are you enjoying the party?"

Peter smiled back. "I am," he said sincerely. Then, with a bit more confidence, he added, "But… I think there's one thing that could make it even better."

Storm raised an intrigued eyebrow. "Oh?"

Peter extended a hand toward her. "Would you like to dance?"

A brief moment of surprise flashed in Storm's bright blue eyes, as if she hadn't expected the request. But then, her smile grew warmer, and after only a second's pause, she reached forward, gently placing her hand in his.

"I would love to," she replied.

Peter felt his heart skip a beat, but he kept his cool. As he led her toward the dance floor, he caught sight of Logan watching from afar, arms crossed, nodding slightly in approval. Deadpool, on the other hand, was more dramatic about it. He wiped a fake tear from his masked eye, placing a hand over his heart.

"I did good," Deadpool whispered to himself, his voice trembling with fake emotion.

Peter and Storm reached the middle of the dance floor, blending in with the other couples who were already swaying to the music. Slowly, they fell into step with each other, moving in sync with the soft rhythm.

At first, there was a comfortable silence between them, simply enjoying the moment. Then, Storm broke the ice.

"You're a good dancer," she noted, her tone light but genuinely impressed.

Peter grinned. "Well, you know, being Spider-Man helps with balance, reflexes, and, apparently, rhythm," he quipped.

Storm chuckled softly, shaking her head. "It's paying off."

Peter felt his grin widen at her laughter. It was rare to see Storm in such a relaxed setting, and he was glad he was the one making her smile like that.

For a moment, the two simply enjoyed the peacefulness of the dance. The world outside—the responsibilities, the battles, the chaos—seemed to fade away. It was just them, moving in time with the music, the warmth of her hand in his.

Then, Peter found himself speaking again, this time in a quieter, more sincere tone.

"You look beautiful tonight," he said. Then, realizing how that might have sounded, he quickly corrected himself, "I mean, well, you always look beautiful. But, uh, especially tonight."

Storm's smile lingered, but there was something else in her expression now—something softer. She let out a quiet chuckle, clearly amused by his slight fluster.

"Thank you, Peter," she said, her voice carrying a warmth of genuine appreciation.

Peter smiled back, and as they continued to dance, he realized that, for the first time in a long time, he wasn't thinking about being Spider-Man. He wasn't thinking about rent, or crime-fighting, or anything else that usually occupied his mind.

Right now, he was just Peter Parker.

The slow song continued to play, and the two remained in each other's arms, simply enjoying the moment as the party carried on around them.

And somewhere off in the distance, Deadpool watched proudly, resisting the urge to scream, "You're welcome!" at the top of his lungs.

END OF CHAPTER 1: INVITATION

BGM: Dwayne Johnson - You're Welcome

Deadpool: What can I say except you're welcome?! You're welcome!

Peter: Is he singing something from Moana?

Storm: Indeed he is.

Logan: Don't worry, I'll get him to shut up. *SNIKT*

Deadpool: Logan, no!

Next time on Webs of Lightning!

*Cricket Noises*

Deadpool: Well, it looks like the author doesn't know the title of the next chapter yet, but don't worry, readers! We'll be back!

Author's Note: Alrighty, guys. How was that? I did think this chapter got the ball rolling on a few things. Anyway, if you enjoyed this chapter, then be sure to give this fic a FOLLOW AND A FAVORITE! Don't forget to READ AND REVIEW! Also, be sure to check out my other fanfics until I update this one. I'll see y'all next time. Excelsior!