Chapter Text
“Have fun at school, alright kid?”
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“Kid?” Peter jumped as he felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up. He was met with his mentor, Tony Stark’s face, clearly worried for proper reasons but still.
“Are you okay, Parker?” Tony questioned, his brows furrowed closely as his grip became tighter on Peter’s shoulder. Due to this Peter placed his own hand on his mentors and smiled his best smile before nodding.
“Sorry Mr.Stark, it just feel really weird to be out of New York. I know it’s for the mission but still, I miss Queens…and seeing Ned and MJ.” Peter responded with, quietly mumbling the last part.
Tony’s gaze softened and he slowly retracted his hand letting it run through his hair instead as he laid against his seat sighing.
“I know kid. I’m sorry for the sudden change but..we need you here okay? You still belong in Queens, that will never change. It’s just for some time, you can visit us whenever you want and don’t worry we’ll be visiting too. I don’t think those quirky friends of yours could even bother being away from you for so long. So don’t stress alright?” His tone was soft but there was slight sternness to it.
Peter knew he was right, he was free to visit whenever, hell he could always FaceTime and stuff as well. Yet it just didn’t feel right, I mean going to a whole new school for the sake of a mission? A school outside of his hometown as well, one known for having so many crimes that he may as well just ask to be killed? This was hell, but he knew why.
“Yea, I’ll be fine. Thanks for the ride Mr.Stark. I’ll see you once school’s done.” His voice quiet as he unbuckled himself, opening the door and staring a little too hard at his new school.
Tony’s eyes watched him carefully, observing how Peter’s eyes squinted in distress, how his hands squeezed a little too hard against his bag straps.
“Relax a little kid. Keep it on a down low and stay out of trouble. Focus on the mission because as soon as it’s over the sooner you can transfer schools again.” Tony’s gaze seemed stern, like it was more over a warning then anything.
Peter couldn’t help but smile though, his words brought some type of comfort only he would be able to give while sounding so strict.
“Yea though with my Parker luck I really can’t promise anything Mr.Stark. If there’s trouble though blame it on how many crimes are happening ! It can’t always be my fault.” He joked with a smile.
Tony’s shoulders seemed to relax as the boy went back to his normal self. Throwing jokes to lighten the mood, giving that smile that screamed he’d be okay even if it was usually the opposite.
“Sure, whatever you say kid. Text or call me if you need anything, if I don’t respond well you know who else to call. Don’t forget right after school we’ll be visiting your new apartment. Now get going, if you’re late on the first day I’m sure your Aunt will have my head.” He said sarcastically, it earned a small laugh from the boy which was all the reassurance he needs.
“Don’t worry if anything goes wrong I’m sure to blame it on you when I explain it to Aunt May ! Thanks again Mr.Stark !!” Peter felt better as he watched Tony drive away.
Peter
It felt awkward to say the least, being in a whole new school was something but hey that just means more people to charm. That’s what Aunt May said at least, that’s what everyone says actually. That I had this weird charm, which might be why the Avengers supposedly like me so much? Eh not super sure about it but it’s a compliment so I’ll take it !!
I walked in the large building, scanning the place as a type of distraction since I could practically feel everyone else’s gaze. There should’ve been no reason, I bought a new uniform, new shoes, made sure to shower, brushed my teeth, combed my hair. Why were people staring? Well I won’t know until someone points it out but we’ll see.
I eventually found the principals office, it wasn’t too far in the building, the maps lended some aid. I was ready to knock on the door before it abruptly opened, inside was a guy who looked way younger, he was short, more tan, yea definitely not meant to be in this school... He didn’t say anything and simply walked past me, yet I could feel him stare. Great another person who seems to be judging me..what is with these people?
“You must be Mr.Parker. Please step inside and please ignore Mr. Wayne.” A lady spoke her voice polite but I could hear the judgement bound to come.
A Wayne? Well isn’t there only one who would be that young.. What would Damien Wayne be doing here..weird.
“Yep, Peter Parker Ma’am ! I’m just here for my schedule.” I said quickly as I stepped inside ignoring her gaze.
“Of course because what else would you require.” She shot back, her eyes lowering.
I followed her gaze and looked at my bag straps, ah. They were squished, a result in my panic earlier from being placed somewhere new. No wonder everyone’s staring, I look like I picked it up off the street or had gotten mugged.
I huffed and ignored my bag straps as I waited for her to find my schedule. It didn’t take long as it seemed she’s been waiting for me, which is odd considering that school had barely started but who really cares.
“Here. Locker code and number are at the top. Next time I would consider coming here on the proper day with your guardian to pick up your timetable instead of getting it last minute Parker. And maybe a new bag as well..” She mumbled the last part which usually would’ve gone unheard had it been anyone but me in which my response was to just smile.
“Apologies. Mr.Stark is a really busy guy, plus living somewhere completely different is hard. I promise we’ll find a better way next time, thank you. Also yea I’ll take the idea of buying a new bag don’t worry.” I replied quickly as I grabbed my timetable off her desk, watching her eyes go slightly wide was fun to witness.
Clearly she wasn’t expecting me to hear her words and well I didn’t really care. People nowadays should be more weary, but oh well it’s not my business. I walked out and closed the door behind me, as I read my timetable I realized how many advanced classes I’d be taking. Unusual in it’s own way but not necessarily bad for me, though I suppose it’ll be slightly harder to make friends.
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Oh. Right I’m not here to make friends. I’m here undercover to discover more about Bruce Wayne. Right. Friends aren’t a priority..but it’d be nice to have one.
No one
Peter couldn’t help but let out a small smile plaster on his face, friends. Mj and Ned, probably enjoying themselves in the school together while Peter was out here, out somewhere more further. Sure he’d see them whenever and on the weekends but still, he could’ve been sitting in class with them, fooling around and poking fun at each other like they always did. Maybe he was having a little bit of fomo but honestly could one blame him? It’s hard knowing you’re two closest and only friends are hanging out and probably having fun without him.
Peter snaps out of his thoughts when the bell rang, he quickly slapped his hands over his ears clearly taken off guard from the loud ringing sound. It hurt his ears badly, the ringing just wouldn’t stop even when the bell did, the ringing kept going. Peter knew he looked pathetic right now but it was overwhelming, this was much louder then it should’ve been, it also just felt..different. It wasn’t the bell he was used to, not the one that would catch him at the worse time, not the one that rushed him and Ned to their next class, not the one that reminded him and MJ that they were in school.
Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder, he grabbed it and squeezed it before remembering where he was and immediately lessening his grip. Shit.
“I’m so sorry..!! You scared me-“ He quickly spoke as he turned around to face whoever he just squished the shit out of.
“Hey relax, it’s fine. You definitely seemed overwhelmed so I get you, but you doing okay now?” The guy spoke, his black hair came into play as his blue eyes locked with mine.
“Ah right..yea don’t worry about it. I…uh.. It’s nothing but thanks for snapping me out of it. The name’s Peter.” He said with a smile as he held a hand out for the other to hopefully grab.
The dude raised a brow and looked at Peter slightly questioning his motives before speaking and grabbing his hand.
“Tim. Tim Drake. Don’t worry bout it by the way, good to know you didn’t fully have a panic attack.” He gave a half assed smile, maybe trying to seem nice? Peter didn’t really care all that much.
“Right hah..would’ve been one hell of a first day if I did wouldn’t it. “ He let go first as he scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, Tim Drake.. Now where did he hear that from..?
“Sure would’ve been. Do ya need help finding your first class? Rather not just leave ya here alone after that whole thing.” Tim offered though it didn’t really seem like one.
Peter couldn’t help but smile a little as his eyes grew slightly bigger.
“Really? That’d be a huge help ! You wouldn’t be late though would you? I’ll manage if so !” He says sheepishly, this earns a small hum from the other.
“Wouldn’t be the first time I’m late don’t sweat it. What’s your first class Peter?” He raised a hand and left it out, most likely waiting for Parker to hand him his schedule which he happily did.
Peter ignored the way Tim stood there slightly shocked over the fact he actually handed him his schedule. Was that not what he wanted..? Tim scanned his timetable and a small smile let loose on his face before letting out a fake one again.
“Impressive Peter, most are advanced. You must be one smart guy, but good news for us both I suppose, we share the same first two classes.” He gave Peter back his schedule as he continued to speak before walking off most likely expecting him to follow behind.
Tim
I was simply trying to get to my class after dealing with that damn Demon child who decided to follow me here like some type of stalker which hey is my thing. Though I’ll never admit it.
While on my way the bell rang which of course it did because when am I apparently not late, fuck my life. As I walked since running would be useless since i’d be late regardless, I saw a guy standing there. He was shaking violently as his hands covered his ears, he looked like he was ready to cry.
I probably would’ve normally walked away because why he was shaking for no reason wasn’t my problem I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I was ready to walk past him since that’s maybe what everyone else did, no heart out here, kindness doesn’t exist outside of family and friends. Yet I found myself getting closer by the second before suddenly my hand touched his shoulder. He ultimately came to a stop and suddenly his hand was on my wrist.
I was ready to move it away on instinct but he grabbed it, harshly. Suddenly his grip loosened before I could even try to pry myself away and he turned to face me. Brown doe eyes met mine, he looked my age yet he was shorter which I never realized until I had to look down. His breathing still seemed a little uneven but he was getting there.
“I’m so sorry..!! You scared me-“ He said rather quickly, his eyes panicking just a little.
He definitely wasn’t from Gotham, no way. Not with that accent, not with the way he coward. People from Gotham had to be ready for everything, it was just too out of character. Who is he?
“Hey relax, it’s fine. You definitely seemed overwhelmed so I get you, but you doing okay now?” I tried to speak softly though I most likely failed, I never let my eyes leave his as I quietly observed him.
“Ah right..yea don’t worry about it. I…uh.. It’s nothing but thanks for snapping me out of it. The name’s Peter.” I watched as he stumbled over his words, covering up his reasoning and throwing in something else instead.
Wait his name? Who just randomly tells a stranger their name? Okay definitely not from here..and a handshake? Whose kid is this and why’s he so overly friendly. Wait scratch all of that, does he not know who I am?
I hesitantly grabbed his hand and shook it just a little. This whole interaction was too friendly, no way was this guy from Gotham.
“Tim. Tim Drake. Don’t worry bout it by the way, good to know you didn’t fully have a panic attack.” I trued to smile but it failed quickly, though I’m not sure if the other noticed as he continued to smile at me anyways.
“Right hah..would’ve been one hell of a first day if I did wouldn’t it. “ First day huh..so new to the school as well, noted.
He watched as Peter let go of his hand and suddenly realized how they were still holding hands. Fuck he forgot to let go, what the embarrassment..
“Sure would’ve been. Do ya need help finding your first class? Rather not just leave ya here alone after that whole thing.” I quickly offered or more like forcibly asked as I kept the smile.
I needed to know more about him one way or another, why would someone not from Gotham be here. Though something in me still would’ve felt slightly bad had I just left this poor dude alone so either way I’d prefer him to make it safe to class.
Wait. Why am I worrying about others right now? What the fuck. Did I inhale some drug? Shit. What’s wrong with me?
“Really? That’d be a huge help ! You wouldn’t be late though would you? I’ll manage if so !” I watched as his eyes lit up from my offer, unknowingly humming out of happiness as he accepted my offer. What a weird kid..
“Wouldn’t be the first time I’m late don’t sweat it. What’s your first class Peter?” I half jokingly put a hand out for his schedule though if any kid knew better would’ve just read off of it themselves.
Everyone knows their locker codes were on there and telling just anyone their whole timetable could be dangerous so who would do th-.
I felt something in my hand and realized he had actually handed me his schedule. The whole thing, in my hand. Okay who’s kid was this? Where’s the social awareness…
I scanned his classes ignoring his code though I may or may have not stolen a small glance. Huh, this kid was actually pretty smart. There were plenty of AP classes for science and just my luck actually. We shared our first two classes, perfect. I couldn’t help but let out a real smile before quickly catching myself and looked back at Peter.
“Impressive Peter, most are advanced. You must be one smart guy, but good news for us both I suppose, we share the same first two classes.” I handed him his schedule back and watched as he took it not even questioning me over his code.
I’ll have to teach him a thing or two about stranger danger at this point..Wait no. I am not making friends with some random kid like that. Ugh. I turn quickly to walk to class and just like that Peter had started to follow, he matched my pace and walked by my side. What an interesting kid..
No one
As the two quietly walked to class, side by side they both couldn't help but notice the 'secretive' glances they gave each other. It sort of felt like a game, to see who would be caught first and what the other would do yet it came to an end as they reached the classroom. Tim didn't bother knocking on the door and straight up barged in, he watched as the teacher gave him an unimpressed look before looking to the side where Peter was. Parker being himself give a small embarrassed smile and gave a small wave in which the teachers response was a simple huff.
"Mr. Drake how funny to see you bring our new student in late. It'd be a shame if he picked up your bad habits." Their teacher said half joking though you could tell she wasn't happy.
"Just this once Ms.Anderson, I promise me and Peter will be arriving on time." Tim said offering the worst forced smile anyone has ever seen, as he randomly grabbed Peter's arm and dragging him to the only 2 seats open.
Peter didn't say anything and continued to offer a small smile as a peace offering while Tim pulled him aside, it felt weird being dragged, it was typically something only MJ and Ned would do. So having a new pair of hands wrapped around his arm was odd to say the least, but Peter didn't hate it, he felt like he had some sort of friend..it was nice.
As the two made their way to a middle sortive row Tim's grip stayed firm against Peter's which didn't go unnoticed by the brunette as he smiled and leaned against Tim while raising his arm up, followed by Tim's hand wrapped around it holding on like letting go would end in something cruel.
"If you wanted to hold my hand you could've just said so you know !" He said smirking just ever so slightly.
In response Tim quickly let go and swatted Peter's arm away, turning slightly red in the process. He looked stunned and confused, suppose his own actions managed to surprise the guy.
"Shut up. Not my fault you look like you'll collapse without someone by your side." He whispered quickly as he pushed Peter away.
"It was a one time thing okay ?! How was I supposed to know the school bell was that loud.." Peter fought back with a scoff as he turned away, pretending to be hurt.
"Right well get used to it, it's Gotham. If the alarms aren't allowed we all may as well be dead." Tim raised a brow at the others action though he was indeed smiling.
"Well I'll have you know that I'm fr-"
"Parker, Drake. Please stop flirting in my class. I apologize your date or whatever this morning was cut short, but please keep it outside of my class." Ms.Anderson said interrupting Peter.
The two boys looked up at her heavily embarrassed as Peter grew red from head to toe while Tim's ear were probably as red as his suit. They quickly started to pull out their notebooks and things finally paying attention and taking notes.
Tim
The amount of shame I felt at that very moment was too high for me to handle. In no shape or form was I flirting with Peter..! And..and he started it. If he didn't say anything about me holding onto his arm we could've ignored it all.
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Wait. NO. That just sounds even gayer then it should and no i’m not homophobic, my oldest brother is quite literally bisexual, my sister is dating a girl, hell even Bruce might be a little queer himself, but ME? Nope. Straightest man here, straight as a ruler and no not the bendy ones. Peter had just caught me off guard and it wasn't anything serious yep uhu-
"Tim? Heyy..? Class is over and we really shouldn't be late to our next one. I'm not one for bad first impressions." Peter spoke softly as his hand touched my shoulder giving it a gentle squeeze.
I looked up at him and met his eyes, they looked concerned..which was odd considering we’ve just met and no one from Gotham would care that much, but then again he wasn't from here. I couldn’t hold back the smile and placed my hand over Peter's squeezing it back with a small smile.
"Perfectly fine Peter, sorry didn't mean to worry ya like that." I spoke quietly not breaking away from Peter's gaze.
"Well I wouldn't want my tour guide to die on me would I?" He shot back with a light tease while offering a smile.
No one
He huffed and leaned against the table, taking his hand off Peter's and crossing his arms over his body.
"Well maybe this tour guide will leave you to wonder around by yourself." He challenged with a smirk
Before Peter could retort Ms.Anderson slammed her hand on the table startling Tim just a little but not so much, while Peter just glanced over at her and gave his typical small smile.
"Stop flirting and get out of my class you two. Seriously flirt somewhere else." She stated with a grumble at the end before turning back to her desk.
Peter gave a small chuckle as he held a hand out for Tim which gave a small questioning look before grabbing onto it, leading to Parker pulling him up and dragging him out of the class. Tim could barely grab his bag in time as he got pulled away not bothering to say goodbye or anything to their teacher. Who was indeed giving them a certain questionable look but hey they didn't need to know that.
"Peter you have zero clue on where we're supposed to be heading don't you." Tim said raising a brow as though it honestly wasn't even a question.
Peter slowed down and started to walk while turning around to look at him. He looked all smug like he just won the lottery or something, he held a tight grip on Tim's but not as tight as when they first met. It felt weird in Tim's opinion yet a good weird as he didn't attempt to pull his hand away or anything.
"And who wanted to hold hands exactly?" Tim joked as he took the lead instead, showing Peter their next class.
"Hmm, still you. You're the one who's holding on really tight !" Peter said with a laugh.
"Yea because if I don't you'll probably get lost and that's the last thing we both need." Tim shot back as they reached their next class, barely on time might I add.
Peter only gave a small light laugh before dragging Tim in as the former just stood still contemplating whether or not he should've actually entered. As the two walked in they both could feel the stares and both had a clue on where they were directed towards, yet neither one let go which was a surprise to the other. They shared a look and both let out a small smile as they found a desk in the back.
This time they weren't called out by the teacher or anything, though they did share some small quips here and there. It wasn't turning into some type of long conversation though the two were hoping it would just ever so slightly.
After class finished they were graced with a 15 minute break which they happily accepted. The two walked out of class surprisingly not holding hands and were chatting the whole break through or up until a loud voice echoed through the halls. Peter turned to the side and saw two figures walking up to him and Tim. A tall blond who had that lean athletic build, sure she seemed less muscular but Peter could tell she was stronger then a good amount of people, she seemed charismatic and indeed friendly. Beside the girl was another giant, tan and more muscular, he seemed friendly as well, though Peter could tell something was off about him, not in a bad way of course.
"Timothy ! Oh is this that guy who's your supposed boyfriend? Everyone's talking about you two holding hands and flirting !! Oh wait..Hi cutie, name's Stephanie but you can certainly call me Steph !" She said enthusiastically before grabbing Peter's hand and holding it with a little bit of force.
"Ah..Peter. Nice to meet you Steph and..?" He trailed off as he looked over at the other guy who seemed surprised he asked.
"Name's Duke man. Happy to see Tim make a new friend." He said offering a smile before holding his hand out, offering a proper handshake.
Peter smiled and used his free hand to shake Duke's before suddenly he felt another pair of hands tear Steph's off of his own.
"Steph ask for a little consent first alright? Sorry Peter she doesn't know a single thing about social cues." Tim said cutting in, as he held Peter's in his own instead.
With that Duke had retracted his hand and gave a small huff.
"Overprotective much? Relax Tim you know Steph's got her own girl." He said teasing the both of them which did indeed work.
Steph couldn't help but turn into a puddle at the mention, her whole face red, blushing from embarrassment. Tim on the other hand looked away though the tip of his ears gave him away as it was bright red. Peter laughed at the twos reaction and Duke smirked feeling proud.
Before Peter could bother to tease or question further the bell suddenly rung again and before he could even move his hands, a different pair landed on his ears first. Peter glanced over at Tim who gave a reassuring smile as he pressed slightly hard in an attempt to block at more noise. Peter put his hands over Tim and gave a small smile before both let go as the bell came to a stop, though this action didn't go unnoticed by the other two. Steph had her phone out clearly having taken a photo and Duke let out a whistle.
"Both of you, mouth closed. Also Duke, you and Peter have class together." Tim said giving a glare before going back to his resting face.
Steph rolled her eyes as she put her phone back into her pocket and looked at Duke.
"Oh really? Sweet Peter I can steal you from Tim then. Sick." Was all he said before grabbing onto the confused man.
Tim was ready to let out a protest to the other suddenly dragging Peter, but Steph stepped in the way and quickly showed him the photo he took. Tim scoffed at the blackmail but backed down and just ditched her for his next class which he was so skipping. Steph watched him leave and giggled to herself, she was so using this against him later on.