Chapter Text
Things were different after Homecoming. His dad was much more focused on him being Spider-Man. He was always checking in on him during patrols and making sure he wasn’t taking on anything dangerous. His dad also had him training more and more. Peter’s fighting skills were basic at best and relied heavily on his webbing skills. His dad felt having hand-to-hand combat skills was necessary. And between him and Rhodey, Peter could be trained pretty well (though both were timid and tried not to actually hit him, which Peter didn’t find helpful).
Peter blew out a breath as he stood in the private gym in the Tower. His dad had it installed after the Homecoming debacle, for training purposes. Peter figured that was what the Compound was for, but it seemed his dad was still avoiding going there, with how empty it was. It seemed only Vision lived there and he got the impression that Vision wasn’t actually there too often.
“Run it again.” Peter groaned and banged the boxing gloves on his hands together. Rhodey was standing next to a bag, his arms crossed over his chest. Tony was sitting on a bench nearby watching them. “Peter, come on.” Peter groaned, an annoyed look on his face, but did as he was told. He went through the combo, jabs, crosses, and kicks, before staring at his uncle, still looking annoyed. Rhodey glanced back at Tony.
“You can do better than that kiddo.” Peter growled under his breath, getting more annoyed. They had been at this for what felt like hours. He was tired, sweaty, and hungry. He just wanted to be done. It was his Christmas break after all. He went through the combo again, but this time when he sent the kick into the bag, the chains holding it up broke and it went flying backwards.
“Maybe not like that,” Tony said, getting up. Peter huffed and pulled the gloves off his hands, angrily. “Alright, easy bambino. I know you’re tired.” Peter sighed and hung his head a little ashamed that he let his anger get the best of him. Tony, not caring that he was sweaty, pulled him into a hug.
“Sorry,” Peter grumbled. Tony just pressed a kiss to the top of his head.
“You just need some food and sleep,” Tony said. Peter attempted a smile. Sleep was the reason he was in such a rotten mood.
He hadn’t told anyone, but he had been having trouble sleeping over the last month or so. Every time he would try and sleep, he would wake up in a panic, struggling to breathe. But he didn’t say anything. Because he was Spider-Man and Spider-Man shouldn’t have nightmares. And yet, every night, they seemed to happen. Some nights weren’t as bad. But the previous night, he had barely slept, waking from a nightmare and then too afraid to go back to sleep.
“Yeah,” Peter said, even though he was honestly terrified of going to sleep. Rhodey walked over and clapped him on the shoulder.
“Your form is getting better,” Rhodey said and Peter smiled slightly. He and his dad headed towards the elevator and took it up to the Penthouse. When they reached the kitchen, Pepper was already there, working on dinner.
“Hi boys,” Pepper said, looking up from the pot she was stirring at the stove. “I’m making chili.”
“It smells really good mom,” Peter said, sitting down at the kitchen island. Pepper smiled at him. It had been more than two months since the proposal and Peter could tell Pepper was still thrilled that he was calling her mom. Tony walked over and kissed her cheek before grabbing a gatorade from the refrigerator.
“Drink up spiderling,” Tony said, tossing the drink to Peter. “That enhanced metabolism isn’t going to replenish itself.” Peter nodded and opened the drink.
“What time is May coming over tomorrow?” Peter asked before taking a sip. The next day was Christmas Day. Pepper had wanted May to be invited, as spending Christmas alone was not something she wished on anyone.
“Eleven,” Tony said. “Gives you time to sleep in before we have a nice brunch and exchange presents.”
“Cool,” Peter said before finishing the Gatorade. Though if he had to admit it, nothing sounded cool about sleep at that moment.
“Yep,” Tony said. “But until then, how about we have some dinner and watch a movie together? You know, as a family.” Peter beamed and nodded.
“Just as long as it’s not A Wonderful Life.”
“That is an excellent movie!”
“Dad it’s depressing as hell.” Tony just shook his head and glanced at Pepper, who shrugged.
“Fine, you pick.” Peter smiled and went over to the couch. “FRIDAY, let Rhodey know we’re having dinner and watching a movie, if he wants to join.”
“Will do boss.” He smiled and moved so he was standing next to Pepper. He put his hand on her waist and she smiled at him.
“What’s got you in a good mood?” She asked. Tony just smiled and lifted the hand wearing her engagement ring. He kissed her hand, but said nothing. Last Christmas had been depressing. It had been just him and Peter, but Peter had spent most of his time with May, who was struggling with her first Christmas after Ben passed away. Tony had let him, because he knew May needed someone with him. But Tony hadn’t wanted to spend that day alone. But he had and he hated it. But this year, he had Pepper back. They were getting married. He was more happy than he could express.
“Just happy,” He said, before kissing her. She put the spoon on the counter and wrapped her arms around his neck. He put his other hand on her waist and pulled her closer. He could’ve stayed like that for an eternity.
But they were interrupted.
“Like two seals fighting over a grape.” They separated like a bunch of teenagers being busted making out. Rhodey was standing by the couch where Peter was sitting.
“Two reminders,” Peter said, crinkling his nose. “I am here and gross.” Rhodey chuckled and ruffled Peter’s hair before sitting down next to them.
“Someday you’re going to have a girlfriend,” Tony said. “And I am going to tease you mercilessly for years of you saying gross every time we kiss.” Peter’s cheeks flushed in embarrassment. Partially because he knew his dad was telling the truth but also because he couldn’t imagine crushing on anyone at the moment. Everything with Liz had turned out horribly. He couldn’t imagine going through that again.
“Oh grow up,” Pepper said, handing Tony two bowls of chili. Tony made a face and she just shook her head, a small smirk on her face. He then headed over to the couch, handing Peter and Rhodey each a bowl. He then sat down next to his son. Pepper walked over and handed Tony a bowl before sitting down next to him, kicking off her shoes and tucking her feet onto the couch. Peter started the movie and they all ate in companionable silence.
As the credits rolled for the movie, Tony glanced around on the couch. Rhodey was still watching a small smile on his face. Pepper was cuddled into Tony’s side and one of his arms was wrapped around her. His other hand was carding through Peter’s hair. Peter had fallen asleep about an hour into the movie. Tony figured it was because his son was exhausted from training. Then again, he had looked tired for a while.
He knew being Spider-Man along with being in high school was a lot. When Tony had taken the suit, Peter had rejoined robotics club and band. Tony had convinced him not to quit them when he gave him the suit back. It was important that his kid acted like a kid and being in clubs in high school was a part of that. Tony had missed out on that by graduating early. He was Peter’s age when he started at MIT and if it hadn’t been for meeting Rhodey his freshman year, he would’ve been a way bigger mess than he was (he was still a mess, but Rhodey definitely tempered that). He didn’t want his son to miss out on being a teenager. But he also wanted to make sure his son was healthy and not going too overboard, without taking the suit away. He could not handle his kid looking like a kicked puppy again. He’d almost caved last time, even though his actions had been necessary.
He felt something knock his shoulder and looked down at Peter. His son was moving around a little in his sleep. Tony raised an eyebrow, confused by his son’s actions. Even Rhodey and Pepper had noticed.
“Help,” He murmured in his sleep. “Help.” He seemed to start thrashing more and Tony realized he was having a nightmare.
“Peter,” He said, shaking his son. He didn’t seem to budge. “Peter!” Peter’s eyes flew open and he nearly jumped off the couch. His breathing was heavy and his eyes were wide. “Easy bambino, easy.” Peter looked around wildly, not seeming to know where he was. His breaths were coming out as gasps. “Peter, look at me.” He grabbed Peter’s shoulder and turned him so he was facing him. “Deep breaths.” Peter nodded and focused on breathing. The room was quiet except for Peter breathing in and out.
“S-sorry,” He said, finally getting control of his breathing.
“Are you okay sweetie?” Pepper asked, concern on her face. Peter wanted to sink into the couch. He had just had a nightmare in front of his parents and his uncle. They were going to ask questions and he wasn’t ready to answer them. He nodded numbly. Tony could see the terrified look on his face.
“I-I’m f-fine,” Peter stuttered out. Tony reached out for him, to pull him into a hug, but Peter stood up.
“Are you sure?” Tony asked, standing up as well. He watched as Peter avoided eye contact and his shoulders slumped forward. “We can talk about it Peter, it’s okay.” Tony wanted to tell his son that nightmares happened, that he had them as well, and that talking about them helped.
“I-I don’t remember what it was about,” Peter said, hoping the lie stood. His father sighed. “Can I just go to my room now?” Tony sighed but nodded. Peter quickly left the room. Pepper stood up and wrapped her hand around Tony’s, leaning her chin on his shoulder.
“It’s okay,” Pepper said quietly. “He’ll open up when he’s ready. He’s too much like you in that way.” Tony blew out a breath.
“He’s got all of us Tones,” Rhodey said, getting up, his mechanical braces whirring as he did. “He’ll be okay.” Tony nodded and then Rhodey headed out of the penthouse. Tony leaned back a little into Pepper and she pressed a kiss to his cheek.
“Come on,” She said gently. “If you’re going to worry, you can at least do it in the comfort of our bed.” She tugged him towards their room, never letting go of his hand.
“You’re amazing, you know that?” Here he was panicking about his kid and why he was having a nightmare. And Pepper was being supportive. Not blaming him, not scolding him on why his son might be traumatized. Just there, keeping him calm. God, he loved her.
They both changed into their pajamas and she gently tugged him down to the bed. He lay on his back staring at the ceiling. When she laid down next to him, pressing against his side, he pulled her as close as possible. He kissed the crown of her head, glancing at her. Kind, blue eyes stared back. He sighed and she gently ran her perfectly manicured nails up and down his arm. He looked back up at the ceiling, letting the feeling calm him.
He didn’t think he would sleep, but eventually, his eyes drifted shut.
Peter coughed, looking around desperately. He was back in the warehouse. Debris was crushing him into the ground. He wiggled around desperately, trying to get free. He let out a cry of pain.
“Help!” He screamed. “Help me please!” He couldn’t be stuck down here. Not again. He cried and screamed, trying to get free. Nothing seemed to work. No matter how much he wriggled and pushed, he was stuck. He could hear Toomes’ voice, mocking him. He screamed in pain, still unable to get free. He was sobbing now, the trapped feeling taking over him.
“Peter!” He jolted up in bed with a start. His dad was standing over him. Peter let out a strangled cry.
“Dad,” He cried out. Tony nearly fell onto the bed, going to comfort his son. Peter buried his head in his dad’s shoulder and sobbed. Tony held him close, running one hand through his son’s hair, the other holding Peter close to him. He tried to ignore the tightening in his chest. Seeing his son in so much pain was triggering for him. He tried to steady his breaths and he focused on comforting his son. After some time, Peter lifted his head up. His eyes were red and puffy and he had a scared look in his eyes.
“I’m right here bambino,” Tony said, kissing his son’s forehead. Peter looked at his dad, before noticing Pepper standing in the doorway. She gave him a gentle smile before walking into the room. She sat down on the bed next to Tony. “You’re not going to try and convince us that you don’t remember this time, are you?” Peter shook his head. “Okay, talk to us.”
“Please don’t be mad,” He said weakly. Tony gave his son a look, not sure where he was going with all of this. “I didn’t tell you everything that happened on the night of Homecoming. He sniffed and wiped his nose on his hand. “I didn’t track Toomes to the plane. I tracked him to a warehouse first. And I thought I had him. But he was just distracting me. He got away, but…” Peter squeezed his eyes shut and Pepper reached out and gently fixed a few hairs that were sticking to his sweaty forehead. “N-not before he brought the whole warehouse. On me.” Tony sucked in a breath and just pulled Peter close to him.
He remembered the nightmares that had come after he flew into the wormhole and after Cap stabbed him in the back and left him for dead. He knew what his son was going through. And it hurt him to know that Peter had been going through this alone, for the last few months.
“Oh Peter,” Tony said, hugging his son. “I wish you had told me.”
“I-I didn’t know how to,” Peter said. “I’m not supposed to have nightmares. I’m supposed to be a hero.” Tony looked down at his son, so they were making eye contact.
“Everyone has nightmares,” Tony said. “Even heroes. Even me.”
“Really?” Peter asked and Tony nodded. Peter was surprised. He had never expected his dad to struggle like that. But then again, Peter noticed more things about his dad the older he got. Tony glanced at Pepper who scooted closer to Peter.
“Your dad’s telling the truth,” She said, wrapping her arm around him. He leaned his head on her shoulder. “And the best way to deal with nightmares is to talk to someone about it.”
“I know mom,” Peter said quietly. “But if that’s terrifying me, how am I supposed to be a hero?” Pepper kissed his forehead. Tony moved so Peter was squished in between the two of them.
“If you weren’t a little terrified, I’d be more worried,” Tony said. “This hero gig, it’s not easy kiddo. But you’ve got us for a reason. And Rhodey and Happy. You’ve gotta lean on us a little more. I mean, you don’t want to end up like me.” Pepper reached over and swatted his arm. “Right, not the point.”
“No I get it,” Peter said. He remembered his dad’s words after the ferry incident. I wanted you to be better . It wasn’t out of anger. It was a true sentiment. His dad wanted him to not only be a better hero than him, but not to struggle the way he had. “I’ll try to be more open about what’s bothering me.”
“That’s all we ask,” Tony said. “I mean, we’re your parents. We’re going to definitely worry about you.” Peter nodded and Tony ran his hand through his son’s hair. Then he paused. “Wait, how did you get to the plane then?”
“I got out,” Peter said, wincing a little. Tony gave him a look. “I, uh, I remembered what you said. How if I was nothing without the suit then I shouldn’t have it.” Pepper glanced at Tony and noticed him frowning. She knew how hard that conversation had been for Tony. She knew he had spent the next week after it regretting it and feeling awful for hurting Peter.
“Kiddo,” Tony said. He felt guilty. He hadn’t meant to hurt his kid in that way. But Peter shook his head.
“But you were right dad,” Peter said. “The suit didn’t make me Spider-Man. And I guess knowing that motivated me and I got out...by lifting the debris.” Tony’s eyes went wide.
“That must have weighed thousands of pounds.” Peter shrugged. “God, how strong are you?” Peter smiled a little. “I don’t want to make you feel like a lab rat, but maybe we should look more into what you can do. In a safe and contained way.”
“Definitely sounds like a lab rat,” Pepper said, teasing him. Peter chuckled.
“It’s fine mom,” Peter said. “Dad can do it. So long as he doesn’t poke me with a needle or anything.” Tony rolled his eyes before pulling Peter closer to him and kissing his head.
“Think you can sleep now?” Peter nodded. “And if you can’t, just come find us. No questions asked.” Peter nodded and Tony got up. Pepper kissed his forehead before getting up as well.
“Thanks mom, thanks dad.” Then he moved so he was lying down again. The couple smiled and Tony turned off the lights before leaving the room. When they got back to their room, Tony turned towards Pepper.
“If you tell me he’s my son,” Tony said, giving Pepper a look. He was teasing, because she had a tendency to remind Tony of how similar he and his kid really were.
“You’ll what?” She challenged a smirk on her face. Tony just pulled her closer and kissed her. “That’s what I thought you’d do.”
“Good,” Tony said, pulling back a little. “Because you’re amazing and I love you.”
“I love you too,” Pepper said. “Now I think we can get a few more hours of sleep before we have to get ready for Christmas Day.” Tony nodded and they both got back into their bed. He pulled her closer to him as they settled down, kissing her one more time. And then, he drifted off to sleep, knowing that at least for the moment, they were all safe and okay.