Don't Leave Me Here - Starker

13

Peter huffed as he rolled over in bed for hundredth time. It was far too early for him to be awake, however his sleep schedule recently had been terrible. So had Tony's.

Speaking of, he was still sound asleep, and snoring rather loudly. Peter decided to leave him and Roo in bed, and he would go to the couch for the time being.

He flipped the tv on, the early morning news playing quietly.

"We have an update on Minko's Deli, which was unfortunately robbed last night. The suspect has been apprehended, but not before setting several small fires within a few blocks of the robbery itself. Thankfully there have been no fatalities, but several have been injured." The reporter spoke.

"This leaves the city wondering, where is Spider-Man, and what is being done to counter act the rising crime rates, in his absence?"

Peter froze, staring at the screen. If he were being honest, he hadn't even thought about Spider-Man. Sure he'd seen the suit a few weeks back, but he couldn't justify putting it back on. Not after what had happened.

While he'd been taking the time he needed to heal, others were suffering. And people needed him. This city, needed him.

Peter wasn't sure if he could bring himself to do it. He wasn't sure if he could be ready, or if he'd doubt every move and decision he'd make. But putting it off wouldn't give him the answer he was looking for either.

"If you frown any harder, I think your face might be stuck like that."

Peter was pulled from his thoughts, startled by the suddenness of Tony's voice.

"I know." He nodded. "I was just thinking."

Tony sat next to him, kissing his head. "They do need Spider-Man, though."

Peter glanced at Tony, waiting for him to continue.

"But if you don't need it, if you're not ready, that's okay too. There are other ways to combat crime. It's not just yours to worry about." Tony assured. "And your health comes first, always."

Peter nodded, grateful for the others insight.

"I don't know why this is such a difficult decision. I love helping this city. It's what I was made to do. But if I screw up again, I don't-" He sighed. "I'm not sure I can handle it."

"This is just me, offering a different perspective." Tony replied, playing with Peter's curls. "You can't save everyone. It's just not feasible for one person. That doesn't mean you can't help, but sometimes you have to do what's best for the greater good. I wish it wasn't, but it's the way the world works."

Peter nodded in understanding, but was saddened by what he'd said.

"You'll kill yourself trying. And that is far too much to put on your shoulders."

"No- I understand. Just sucks..." He mumbled.

"That doesn't mean you don't try your absolute hardest every time, or start pulling your punches." He said encouragingly. "I just don't want you to be afraid of running into the unknown because you're worried about making mistakes. You're human."

Peter smiled, poking Tony's chest. "Why do you have to be so smart?"

Tony laughed, pulling Peter close. "I've been doing this for a while now, love. You'll get there. But I will let you know, your new suit is almost finished. So if you do decide to try again, it's ready."