Chapter Text
It starts off with a phone call, like most bad things do. Tony had been in the middle of a meeting when his phone buzzed silently in his pocket. There was only a moment of slight hesitation before he reached into his jacket and pulled the device out. He could feel Pepper’s eyes on him along with everyone else's at the large table.
The meeting was already going on it’s second hour and he’d long since finished his donuts and coffee, the man couldn’t be blamed for allowing himself to be distracted. An excruciatingly boring business proposal with a handful of dry, overly sharp alphas verses a surprise phone call? Pepper could recall everything he missed anyway.
However he felt his heart skip a beat and his stomach drop some when he realized who it was. May Parker. Of course anytime May called he felt the start of a mild panic attack, usually she only called when she wanted to express something that couldn’t be done over a text and it always pertained to Peter. Instantly Tony pushed himself away from the table and stood up.
“Tony,” Pepper hissed, her eyes narrowed at him in an unmistakable warning. Tony frowned before holding up his finger and accepting the call.
He held his hand over the speaker and glanced towards the table. ‘It’s my kid,’ he mouthed, letting everyone know he had to take the call. “May, what’s going on,” Tony asked as he let himself out of conference room doors.
“Tony,” May said, her tone heavy but lacking any indication that Peter was mortally injured. “We’ve got a situation,” she mumbled.
“I don’t like that the sound of that,” he said as his heart rate started to pick back up. It was strange how one little teenager could scare Tony Stark so badly. “What’s wrong?”
“Peter presented...in class today,” May said lowly and for a moment Tony knew he must have heard her wrong.
After a long few seconds he answered. “I’m sorry what? Presented? Pete is a beta, I’m not following.”
“No, well...we thought he was. He’s clearly not though, because the kid I just picked up is an omega.”
“May what are you talking about?” Tony asked again, trying to wrap his head around the situation. The woman didn’t seem to be making any sense.
“The school called me an hour ago and said that Peter was having his first heat. The nurse assured me that some students are just late bloomers. But...they’ve already called the OR, the nurse said it was their typical protocol.”
“They called the OR before they called you?” Tony spat, not sure which was more unbelievable, the fact that the kid he’s known for nearly 3 years, the kid he shared custody of, the kid he thought was a beta had just presented as something completely different. Or the simple idea that Peter's school had called the Omega Registry before they contacted his parents.
The Omega Registry, commonly referred to as the OR, was the nationwide department that handled any situation regarding omegas. Seeing as how omega birth rates were much lower than alpha and beta the government decided that people with theses genetics needed more assistance. Expect they really didn’t assist anyone, they just managed to make everything more miserable for every omega involved.
“I couldn’t believe it either, I’m shocked,” May confessed. “Poor Peter didn’t even know what was happening, they just handed over his information and told him to go sit in the office until I got there.”
“A late bloomer…” Tony trailed off. “Most kids are presenting at 13, figures Pete would decided to wait an extra three years.” Tony ran a hand down his face and heaved a sigh. “And the OR has already been in contact?”
“They called about five minutes ago and started reciting all the rules, Tony it was terrible. They’re trying to tell me that Peter is required to have a mate, not only that but I need an /alpha/ parent or family member to find him one. They’re giving us a three week grace period to find someone or he’s going to be added to the Registry and everything!”
“The hell he will be!” Tony shouted, startlingly a passerby. He quickly collected himself before going on. “We’ve got the alpha part covered, I know you can’t pick his mate but I’ve got joint custody, that means I can do it. So at least they can’t appoint him one or choose for him.”
“I don’t know what all the woman I spoke to said. She was listing off so many rules and state codes that I didn’t have time to think or write them down. I’m a beta with what I thought was a beta nephew, I don’t have any of this memorized. How are we going to find him a mate in 3 weeks? He’s only sixteen!” She exclaimed in frustration. Her nephew was just a sophomore, he wasn’t even dating anyone. She paused for a moment before going on. “I’m afraid their going to take him,” May whispered and her voice broke some as she tried to hold back her fears.
The man hated to admit it but he didn’t even known every law or ordinance that applied to omegas either. Tony just knew that an omega had to have a mate or the OR became involved and nobody wanted to clean up a mess like that. Peter had classes, patrol, decathlon, homework, and not to mention the internship. The last thing Tony thought his kid should be worried about was the OR.
“But you know I’m not going to let that happen” Tony insisted. “The kid isn’t going anywhere, we’re just going to handle the situation.” He’d bring the world to its knees before he let anything happen to Peter. He was Tony Stark and he’d make sure that whatever needed to happen, happened. He was in the business of making the impossible possible, after all. “As long Peter is alive and safe we can handle everything else, right?”
“...Right,” May finally answered, Tony could tell it was taking everything she had to believe Tony right then.
“How is he doing?” The man asked, leaning up against the wall. There was a magnitude of thoughts spinning through his head but he just wanted to know how the kid was. Usually presenting as either omega or alpha was a happy occasion, a milestone in adolescenthood. Even a lack of biological presentation was something that was celebrated. But the only thing either May or Tony could feel was concern.
“Well he’s humiliated for one thing and I think he’s a little confused. 16 is late even for an omega to present, that and he’s not feeling well. I don’t have the first clue as how to make it better,” May sighed.
“Underoos can’t catch a break, just keep him hydrated for now, try to keep him cool and comfortable, there isn't a lot we can do.” Tony couldn’t stop himself from bitterly thinking, ‘this is why they want omegas to have mates. So I don’t have to feel useless.’
But he was confident that he had a enough paternal alpha instincts to get them through the next couple of days. “Let him sleep for now if he’s tired. I’ll head over there tonight. I’ve got some people I have to call first. Maybe get in touch with some lawyers and see what they think.”
“I’m sorry Tony, I know you’re busy. I just didn’t know who else to go to. I never thought Peter was an omega who just hadn’t presented yet. Thank you for all your help.”
“Don’t thank me, anything for the Kid right?”
***
“What’s so important that you have to leave the meeting and then drag me with you? You know we’ve been trying to close on this deal for a month! We were almost finished and you go and postpone it for 3 weeks?!” Pepper exclaimed while Tony ushered her into the elevator.
“It’s Pete,” Tony said, trying to get her to lower her voice some. He knew she was upset but this was bigger than the new technology deal.
“What’s wrong?” Pepper asked, whipping around to face the man, her expression changing instantly.
Tony quickly directed Friday to take them to his personal floor before turning to look at the woman again. “He presented as an omega today. He was in class when it happened and they already contacted OR. They called May and...long story short? we've got three weeks to find a suitable alpha or they’re going to start getting involved. It looks like we’re in from a rough time.”
Pepper gave the man a look of shock and confusion before her features softened some. Tony swore he could see something more gentle and warmer in her eyes than a moment ago. “An omega?” She asked. “Peter, really?”
“Really,” Tony nodded, folding his arms across his chest.
“I hate those laws Tony, they’re ridiculous,” Pepper mumbled. “Pete is a kid, I can’t even imagine handing him over to some alpha.”
“That’s exactly what we’re not going to do,” Tony said, his tone suddenly clipped and harsh. “We can’t let him be added to the registry, we have to protect him, his identity, everything. I just don’t know how we’re going to find someone to help keep OR out of our hair so fast.”
Pepper walked thoughtfully out of the elevator when the doors opened, she had heard and understood everything man had said, and she had understood everything he /didn’t/ say. They needed an alpha from their side, somebody they could trust. Somebody Tony knew, picking just anyone wasn’t going to be an option.
“Friday,” Pepper started, glancing up towards the ceiling. “Start compiling a list of unmated or bonded alphas, everyone we have connections or affiliations with. Don’t skimp, add family members of trusted people, add anyone on Shields list. We’ll start filtering them after every option is accounted for.”
“On it, Ms Potts,” Friday said instantly. “I’ll let you know as soon as I have compiled a full list.”
Pepper sighed before looking back at the other. “I’ll start calling the lawyers, and see if anything can be done about this. At the very least Midtown needs to answer for why they called OR before informing you or May.”
“Friday?” Tony said after a moment. “Send a message out to the team and explain the situation. Tell them to contact me if they can help.”
“Of course Boss,” Friday replied before the room went silent again.
“Now what,” Tony mumbled, fighting the urge to pinch at the bridge of his nose.
“I guess we get to work and I suggest you go pay a visit to Pete, see if he needs anything.”
***
Before Tony had left for Peter’s apartment, he made a quick phone call. Silently he thanked God for doctors. Bruce had always been willing to help him, despite being a green rage monster from time to time Bruce Banner had one of the kindest hearts there was. Not only that but he himself was a beta and an avid omega rights activist.
“It’s in my personal lab, Friday can tell you exactly where it is. But you do realize that this is for emergencies. It’s an extremely powerful suppressant, it can’t be used regularly. In fact most doctors will tell you it shouldn’t be used more than twice a year.” Bruce said, allowing the alpha to search his lab for the emergency syringe.
“ I know it’s just for this heat, it kind of is an energy. We couldn’t have expected this but I’m glad you had a backup suppressant in your lab. Will it sound terrible if I tell you I think it might be the only one in the whole tower?”
Bruce scoffed lightly on the other line. “I’m not surprised, but you really ought to consider placing more in the building, it’s an almost an essential, you should have one every few floors. You’ve got a lot of people working in the tower, you know you’ve got to have at least a handful of omegas on your payroll.”
“I’m going to have to start looking at things differently,’ Tony said with a sigh. Especially now that Pete has presented. Thanks again, Brucie,” Tony hesitated but continued. “You got my message right?”
“Yeah, I think we all did.” Bruce replied almost sadly. “Tony if I knew /anyone/ who would fit the credentials I would have been on the phone the moment I seen the message. Even if I knew somebody who would at least fit half the requirements I probably would have called you. But my circle of peers is a little smaller than yours. I don’t think I know anyone you don’t...mainly everyone I associate with is in the compound. I’m really sorry,” the man said quietly.
“It’s alright, I kind of figure this would be a hard position to fill. I’ve got a list of requirements to be honest with you,” Tony said with a small laugh, one that lacked any humor. “That and Pete has to agree too. Sending the text out might have been a long shot but I thought I’d try. Just-if you think of anyone who might be able to help us, let me know?”
“Of course, tell Peter we’re all thinking about him. Don’t let him be miserable either, it’s a hard situation but being an omega isn’t a bad thing, we’d all be celebrating if it didn’t come at such an awkward time,” Bruce said softly. “Make sure he’s drinking water and staying comfortable. That shot is going to clear everything up though in a matter of minutes. Still, he should get some rest, maybe take a few days off of school. You dont’ don’t want them knowing he used an emergency suppressant for his first heat. It doesn’t look good.”
“Will do, thanks again. I’ll pop over at the compound in a couple days. Keep an eye on everyone, Don’t let it get too wild there.”
Tony hang up afterwards and squeezed his eyes shut in frustration. He needed to figure this out but first and foremost he needed to get to his kid.
Tony pulled up outside the Queens apartment and managed to parallel park. He grabbed his shades and carefully placed the syringe in his pocket for safekeeping. He knew it wasn’t good to medically end a heat, Peter himself might not understand or approve of what his body was doing but his body ran off instincts, his body knew everything it was meant to be doing.
Tony locked up the car before heading up the steps, everything had changed in such a short span of time. He could recalled taking these steps the first time he’d ever met Peter Parker. A soft kid but full of excitement and ready to please. A little clumsy as he tried to navigate his newest growth spurt. If Tony was honest not much had changed since he’d turned 16, maybe the signs had been there all along. Should he have known that Peter would be an omega?
“Tony, I’m so glad you're here,” May said, opening the door for the man and hurrying him inside.
“That’s a first,” Tony said with a smile. “Normally you’re yelling at me about letting the kid stay up too late again,”
May spared him a look but ignored the jibe. “Well, different circumstances call for a different approach,” she mumbled before she lead him through the modest apartment. Already Tony could smell the unmistakable scent of heat. The only instincts it triggered however were peternal.
Tony had never even been able to get close to an omega in heat that wasn’t his mother. This was similar he supposed because normally his brain would say, omega heat, mate, claim. Now it was all, protect, nurture, comfort, that’s your kid. ‘I really do see him as mine,’ Tony thought warmly. Not that there was ever any doubt though but this seem to drive the point home.
May brought them to a stop outside of Peter’s door and her expression fell further. “He’s so upset,” May mumbled sadly. “He thinks something is wrong with him because he’s presenting so late, not only that but now he’s convinced he’s going to be added to the registry and they’re going to force him to be with some terrible alpha. I tried to tell him that wouldn’t happen but he’s not really in the mood to listen to me right now. Maybe you can talk to him?”
“That was the plan,” Tony said, lowering his voice. Peter would certainly be able to hear them outside the door. I’ve already got Friday working on a list of potential alpha options. Anyone that might be acceptable has to be approved first.”
“Approved? By who?” May asked, raising her eyebrow questioningly. “We don’t have to whisper, he’s got the silencers you made him in his ears right now. He said everything is at 11.”
Tony knew what that meant. On top of everything he was probably having a sensory overload. His heart ached some for the teen.
“By me of course, Peter too. I’m not going to stick him with somebody he hates,” Tony said while May gave him a knowing coy smile as she folded her arms over her chest.
“Is that so?” She teased.
“Well, I am his...alpha figure in life right now and it’s a big responsibility,” Tony said, trying not to get flustered.
“Alpha figure?” May asked, using the same tone and expression as before. Interested in what Tony was saying, only because she knew what he was really trying to say.
Tony huffed a sigh before letting his shoulders fall some. “You already know I see him like my own kid. That’s why I signed for joint custody, as a….you know, a father figure, I want to make sure whoever he’s with is good enough. Even if we’re just using an alpha to buy us some time until Peter finds somebody he really wants to be with. I personally don’t think he should even /consider/ getting bonded until he’s at least 18, maybe not even until 21. Either way whoever he’s with, has to be good enough.”
Even if it was just professionally, just business, Tony wouldn’t stick Peter with anybody who wasn’t up to his standards. The goal was to find somebody compatible enough, respectful, decent, somebody who preferably knew Peter’s spider occupation and was close to him and the team already, he didn’t want anybody who was a stranger to them. Tony needed somebody he could trust.
‘We just need somebody to keep OR off our backs until Peter can find somebody for himself.’
“I was wondering when you’d get around to telling the truth,” May said with a small laugh. But she shrank back quickly when she glanced at the door again. “I’m a little clueless, I won’t lie. I’m a beta, so was Ben. I don’t have much omega experience and I really don’t want to let him down. I’m a little afraid that I’m going to do something wrong.”
“So, basically how I experience every minute of helping you parent this kid?” Tony questioned.
She rolled her eyes but Tony placed a hand on her shoulder. “My mother was an omega, I have a bit of understanding. It’s not difficult, we just make some adjustments, we acclimate and do our best. You know it’s kind of nice being able to be the one to give you advice for a change.”
“Just go talk to him and see if you can get him to come out would you?”
“I forget to mention, I brought this,” he said before pulling out the syringe. “It’s a-”
“Emergency represent, it’s strong...you think it’s a good idea?” May asked, eyeing the medicine carefully. “It would probably make him feel a lot better,”
“I think so, Bruce does too. It’s not a fix of course. I think it was just too much of a shock for him right now, it’s upsetting.” Tony didn’t say it but he could smell Peter’s distress the moment he walked in.
May nodded slowly before taking a few steps away. “I’ll be in the kitchen, good luck.”
Slowly Tony opened the door and sighed. The room was blacked out by heavy curtains and the smell of heat and fear flooded him. Peter’s scent had changed some, it was endearing almost and not unpleasant but it certainly didn’t leave Tony feeling any traces of desire.
He shut the door behind him and let his eyes adjust to the dark. He could hardly make out the lump that was huddled under the blankets. Hesitantly though Peter rolled over to face him. “Mr. Stark?” He asked softly, reaching up to pull out small nose reducer in one ear.
“Hey kid, it’s me. And you know it’s Tony,” he said, making sure he whispered.
“Sorry.” The teen mumbled before reaching up to pull the bud out of his other ear.
“It’s alright, thought I’d come and see how you were doing.” Tony said as he carefully took a seat on the edge of Peter’s twin bed.
“It’s all really awful right now. I guess you know what happened?” Peter said as he pulled the blankets up further around him.
“Yeah, May called me earlier and told me about it. She said you’re not doing so hot.”
“No, not exactly,” Peter mumbled. “I’m so hot...everything hurts, it’s uncomfortable. It’s only slightly better than when that building fell on me. I can’t believe this is happening. Do you know how ridiculous I looked presenting in front of everyone in my chemistry class? I'm a sophomore, everyone else literally presented in middle school.”
“Good news is that this is not a building. It’s just your biology doing what it’s meant to be doing. Kid, I know you know that lots of people present later in life. It’s not uncommon to present at 16.” Tony said, reaching out to press hand to the top of Peter’s mussed hair. “If your hot aren't those blankets making it worse?”
“Feels safer,” Peter answered shortly. “Then after everything my senses decided it was a good day to haywire.”
“You don’t feel safe?” Tony asked, trying not to acknowledge how it made his heart break for Peter.
“I mean...it just doesn’t feel good. Like, I don’t exactly feel safe...what’s the word? Maybe vulnerable, not like Spiderman at all. And it feels like…” Peter trailed off before grabbing and pulling the blankets around himself even fighter. “It feels like something is missing, Like walking around and realizing your alone for the first time in your life.”
“You aren't alone, Peter. You are never alone.” Tony said sternly.
“I know that but...it feels like it. I don’t know the words, I know I’m not alone but something inside of me feels really alone.”
“When you have an alpha, you don’t feel like that anymore. In fact you probably won’t even feel like that by the time your heat ends.”
Peter scoffed bitterly. “I don’t have an alpha and it’s not like anyone at school is going to offer. I don’t even like anyone like that at school. OR is probably going to call in a couple weeks and when I don’t have an alpha they're going to add my name to the regresity, Then they’ll probably make me get scented by some stranger.”
Before Tony had the chance to stop him Peter went on, this time forcing himself to sit up in bed. “You know what the kids at school say about the regresity right? It’s just a big list of all the unwanted omegas. Or the uncooperative ones. Omegas that are so actually undesirable that the government has to find them an alpha. And then they’re probably going to be mad that they got stuck with me. They’ll probably boss me around and if I make them mad they’ll call the registry.”
“Hey, don’t worry about that,” Tony said, his voice once again firm, stopping Peter fully this time. He grabbed ahold of his shoulders and wished that the light was on so he could see him better. “Peter, I’ve got it handled okay? I promise you that you aren't going to be added to the list. They aren't going to send you a mate, I’m not letting some OR alpha get within in 20 feet of you.”
“Tony,” Peter said miserably. “How are you going to stop it? I don’t even have a boyfriend or a girlfriend. What if they force me to go one of those rehabilitation centers? To try to make me act like a better omega.”
“Spiderling, are you listening to yourself? I think sometimes you forget who you’re talking to. I’m Tony Stark remember? You know what the very worst case scenario is for you? You get added to the registry and I call Clint and Nat to sneak in and steal your file, I’ll have them hack into the system and delete any trace of you.” Tony whispered. “Or I’ll call Cap and have him shut them down for being unpatriotic, or I’ll get Hulk to smash their department to bits, or I’ll get Rodhy to pull some strings, I’ve got friends everywhere kid. Or you know what, I’ll just buy the whole department.”
Finally Tony managed to get a small laugh out of the kid. “You can do all the that?”
“For you I can do anything,” Tony answered. “But you know why none of that is going to be necessary? Because I’m going to find you an alpha myself. And if you hate them I’ll find you a new one, and if it comes to it, we’ll just keep one around until you find some alpha yourself who you’re absolutely head over heels in love with.”
“Tony!” Peter squeaked and Tony knew if the lights were on he’d see a blush on the boy’s face.
“What! It’s true,” The man laughed before wrapping an arm around him. “You’ve got me on the case, you have nothing to be worried about it. Just let me handle everything.”
Slowly Peter relented some before nodding. “Okay,” he agreed finally. “I still feel terrible but if that's the most I have to worry about I guess I can’t complain.”
“How are your eyes? Do you think they’d hurt too much if I turned the light on?” Tony asked gently. “Where are you?”
“They’re better, I probably don’t even need the reducers anymore. “I’m at a strong 6 but I can handle it.”
Tony didn’t reply, instead he leaned over and switched on Peter’s lamp. The teen squinted some but his eyes adjusted decently. “This-” Tony said pulling out the syringe and showing it to the teen. “Is a gift from Bruce. But you have to understand, it’s only for dire situations. Dangerous situations. It’s not something you can use to avoid a heat when you don’t feel like it. This is your one free pass, Underoos.”
“What is it?” Peter asked eyeing the shot with interest.
“It’s to end a heat, a suppressant. It’s strong and it's going to make the chemicals in your body that create a heat block out completely. Only until the next one though. “Give me your arm,” he instructed.
Tony was quick, cleaning a small patch of skin of Peter’s upper arm and delivering the thin needle shot. Peter winced and looked away but it was over before he could think about it. “Give it five minutes and you should feel a difference.” Tony said, capping the syringe back up and placing it in his pocket once again.
It felt like the longest five minutes of his life but Tony was right. In no time he could already feel the effects kicking in. “Thank you, for everything. I’m sorry I’m making you work on finding me an alpha.”
Tony laughed again before shaking his head. “You have to stop acting like your a such a problem, Kid. You aren’t. And if you were, you’d be worth every ounce of trouble. Now get some sleep. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
***
“What do you got for me, Pep?” Tony asked as he sat down at the kitchen island. The woman had handed him a stack of papers that would have been intimidating to Tony if he wasn’t familiar with stacks of legal documents and jargon that was overly specific.
“Well,” Pepper started. “It’s not great news, but it’s nothing we didn’t know. This is everything the law says about Omegas and the registry and their rights. Also everything they have to abide by. I’ve highlighted the most important parts though.” Pepper said while she started to flip through them. “This is what we need to be focused on right now, this page here” She pointed to a series of paraphrase that had been put in bold yellow for his convince.
OR ordinance, section 32: Any omega individual is required to obtain a mate of appropriate age by their 16th year or 3 weeks after their first medically documented heat. Proof of mate will be required after a period of 21 days. Proof of mates will continue to be required every 6 month period or until individuals can provide proof of permanent bond to remain in good standings. The court considers the appropriate mate age to be equivalent to or older than the omega counterpart.
OR ordinance, section 33: An alpha parent or guardian will have precedence in selecting an alpha for omega individuals under the legal age of 21. Followed by next of kin. If an alpha is unavailable or unwilling to make a selection, a state appointed alpha figure will assist in the selection process.
In regards to OR ordinance, section 32 and 33: If an omega individual and or family refuses to comply with the stated above any of the following may apply; the case will be reviewed by the OR state board and appointed case managers will intervene as necessary. The omega in question will be added to the public omega registry and tagged as unclaimed. Omegas may be removed from the home and care of their guardians and placed in the omega rehabilitation program, and provided with a legal mate up until the appropriate legal. Any disputes may be taken up with a judge in a court of law.
Tony stared at the print for what seemed like ages. It was true, they already knew everything that had been stated but it hit a little closer to home when he read it in fine print. He’d just told Peter a couple hours ago not to worry but the man himself couldn’t help but feel a heavy concern grow inside of him. “What the hell are we going to do?” He mumbled, more to himself but since Pepper was listening he figured he could direct it at her too.
“I already told you, we’re going to make it work.” She sighed, pulling the papers away from the man.
Tony wanted to know how but at the same time his phone started to buzz. He grabbed it from beside him and stared at the caller ID.
“Barton,” Tony, greeted on answering. “What can I do for you?” He said while Pepper listened intently. He spared her the challenge of trying to over hear by putting the phone on speaker. “You don’t usually call me.”
“I got your message...about the kid,” he clarified. “Things don’t sound too good for him.”
Tony cleared his throat before answering. “No, it’s not. I'm working on a list of people who might be able to help him but you know how it is, I can’t pick just anyone.”
“No, you have to be able to trust them,” Clint said. “I won’t lie, I’m a little worried for you though. The OR is tough on the laws, you know that. We can pull some strings, call in some favors and see if there is anyway to delete his information from the registry.”
“If we have to, I’m trying to go about this the legal way first. If I can’t then of course we’re going to have to look at the less credible options.” Tony mumbled.
“You need to be careful with who you pair him with,” Clint said, sounding a little harsher than usual. “I’ve got an omega daughter myself. Sometimes alphas can’t be trusted to do the right thing. It can turn into a bad situation real quick, Tony. A good omega will do what a bad alpha wants faster than a bad alpha will do what's good for their omega.”
Tony frowned and cocked his head. “So you called to lecture me about the kid? Don’t preach to the choir Barton. You know there isn’t anyone I’m more careful with than Peter.”
“Exactly,” the other man said. “My son is a little too young to help but he is an alpha and if anything happened...well Spiderman is his favorite,” Clint said, his tone softer than before. “If this gets out of control we can have some documents made up, lie a little, and it would only be for a year at most,” Clint said. “And I want you to know he wouldn’t be Peter’s alpha. It would just look that way on paper. OR business only.”
Tony couldn’t lie and say he wasn’t shocked. Clint was protective of his kids. He never let them have anything to do with work or his associates. “Clint I-” Tony started but was quickly cut off.
“Cooper is too young, I don’t want him involved if we can help it. But I’ve got a nephew too. He’s a really good kid, reminds me a lot of Pete. In fact he’s just a little older. I see him almost every week, we’re close and I know he’s an option if it comes to that. I haven’t talked to him but he came to mind. I could ask him if you think it’s a good idea.”
“I don’t know, Clint. I haven’t really looked at my options yet. I’ve got Friday my AI making a list. I haven’t exactly had any time to sit and think though and to be honest I didn’t expect any of you to get back with me so soon.” Tony said. “And you’re fairly notorious about keeping your family as far from the drama as possible. No offense here but why would you want to get involved with this one?”
For a long moment Clint didn’t answer. Finally though he spoke up again. “Because I’m parent. I know your worried sick about Pete right now. I know you love yours like I love mine. I can’t help but think about my kids in that situation, I’d want somebody to help me out, I want somebody to give me some options...so here's your option.”
Tony suddenly felt the slightest bit of relief. “Let me think, okay? It’s not that I’m not appreciative! Because God knows I am. But let me look at this from all angles. Do you think you can call him up in a couple days and see what he says though? I just need somebody on standby.”
“I will, and I know you are,”Clint said and Tony could hear the smirk. “But you have to do what’s best for Pete in this situation. They might not be a good match. But I’ll talk to him and see how he feels. Like I said, if this gets out of control at least you’ll know you can fix it.”
Tony sighed softly before nodding. “Right, thank you again, Barton. It really does mean a lot to us.”
“Good hearing from you, I’ll get back with you in a couple days.”
The call ended and Tony looked over at Pepper. They both had similar expression of worry and doubt.
“What do you think?” The man asked carefully.
“I don’t know, Tony. We know we can trust Clint, that’s not the problem. We just don’t know his nephew and he was right about Cooper being too young. It would be a far stretch to make that work. Even if it was just made to look that way it’s going to be questionable. I personally don’t think it’s an avenue we should pursue so quickly.
“Yeah I know what you mean,” Tony said, frowning and rubbing at his temples he could feel the edge of a headache coming on. “It’s a lot to take into consideration. I do like that Clint’s family is familiar with the superhero gig. One less ‘spider’ issue to worry about. I imagine his nephew knows that Clint knows Spiderman. Maybe we could think about it.”
“I don’t think so Tony,” Pepper said shaking her head again. “I don’t feel good about it.”
“And you think I do?” Tony grumbled. “I’m just trying to brainstorm. I need to keep as many doors open as I can for Peter right now. We're not just protecting him either, we need to think about his identity as Spiderman.”
“Hey,” Pepper said gently. “I know your worried. I am too.” She took a seat at the counter and Tony followed. “Clint would never put Pete in harm's way but that doesn’t change the fact we don’t know anything about his nephew. How do we know Peter would even be happy with the choice? I think we need to keep looking. It’s not a bad idea but let's see what happens. We’ve got three weeks after all. Don’t make a rash decision when you’re panicking. And you’ve got a headache, I can tell.”
Tony huffed and silently folded his arms across his chest. “I don’t have a headache,” he mumbled but he resisted to the urge to rub at his temples again. It was sharp and full of tension, of course he had a headache.
“I can tell when your lying,” she deadpanned before sliding off the bar stool. “Besides, it’s getting late. We can worry about all this in the morning. Do you want me to make you a baked potato?”
Baked Potato.
Tony froze and his eyes snapped up to stare at the woman. It was like the puzzle had just been solved. He’d found exactly what they had been looking for. “That's it,” he mumbled.
“I’m sorry what?” Pepper asked looking strangely at him.
Tony jumped up from his seat and his eyes went even wider. “That’s it! Baked potato!”
“Okay, I didn’t know you liked them so much,” Pepper said, still eying him uncertainty.
“Pep no! No, no listen to me! Potato! That’s it, I know who we can call.” Tony grinned already going through his phone. “Potatoes..” He laughed. “God why didn’t I think of it sooner.”
“Happy,” Pepper called out cautiously as she made her way to the hall. “I think he’s losing it, he’s yelling about potatoes, Can you get in here please.” Tony, however though paid her no mind.
“Friday,” He instructed. “Call Harley Keener.”