Archive of Our Own

Blake was frowning as he read through the most recent reports that had come across his desk. A new criminal was on the streets, working for Wilson Fisk. Known only as the Prowler, the person was acting as muscle and intimidation. If anyone had seen his face, or knew his real identity, they were all keeping quiet about it.

And Blake had hit innumerable dead ends in his search.

Sighing quietly to himself, Blake sent out a quick message to the rest of his family members. I'm about to wrap things up here at the precinct. Want me to pick up takeout?

Sure thing, Dad. I'm about to leave the center for the second shift to take over. Want me to meet you and go back through the portal together? Pyro texted back.

At the same time, Ben texted, Sounds good, and Deacon responded, Chinese?

I'd like to meet you, Blake responded to his son. We can head to pick up Chinese. You can let me know how things are going at the centre. He put his files away and headed towards the door of the precinct, so that he could meet Pyro.

Be there in ten minutes, Pyro sent, with a smiley face emoji.

Blake sent an acknowledgement and then stepped out of the precinct to wait for his son.

Pyro moved quickly and was soon walking up to meet Blake in the time he'd indicated. "How was work?" he asked companionably. He was obviously in a good mood.

"There's a new criminal on the streets, working for Fisk. We don't have any leads on him, or her, yet." Blake reached out and wrapped his arm around his son's shoulders. "How was the centre?"

"Busy! I knew there was a need, but until we had so many kids show up, it didn't dawn on me how much of a need. Just having a safe place to go to where they can watch TV, play games, have food available... get help on their homework..." Pyro sounded almost overwhelmed from discovering he'd done something useful. "I already have some counselors lined up to volunteer at various times and am looking into possibly renting the building next to the center. Turning it into a shelter for those at risk, or who may be homeless and need a place to sleep until they can get a new home. I'm going to ask Matt and Foggy to look into what I should do to keep it legal and protect myself and anyone involved.... Maybe you know some things I should do too?"

Blake nodded, gently squeezing his son around the shoulders. "You'll want to consider that even if many of the kids themselves might not be dangerous, they might bring dangerous situations with them. It might be worth seeing if some of the other powered members, or those in charge of the family, would be willing to take turns volunteering. Besides, the Avengers are probably good role models for them," he added.

"Good point. I know Fisk likes to use kids and underage teens in his activities because they are more likely to not end up serving time and takes the heat off his adult criminal workers..." Pyro said, remembering his own brushes with the crime lord.

"It's one of the reasons why what you're doing is such a good idea." Blake led his son towards the Chinese restaurant, so that they could get takeout for the rest of their family.

"It feels good, knowing I can help someone else the way you helped me..." Pyro followed his dad into the restaurant.

"I think you're one of the best placed people to help them." Blake moveed forward to place their order, then moved back to Pyro's side and wrapped his arm around his son's shoulders once more, while they waited.

"Only because you took me in. If you hadn't, I'd likely be one of those Fisk workers causing you problems now..." Pyro said softly.

"It wouldn't have been possible without you working with me." Blake kissed the side of Pyro's head. "I love you."

Pyro smiled, leaning toward the affection. "I love you too, Dad..." he said softly.

Blake held Pyro close until their food was ready, then stepped forward to collect it before wrapping his arm around his son once more, so they could head outside to the portal.

Pyro took half the bags and followed Blake, staying close.

Blake stayed in close physical contact to his son as they stepped through the portal, back to the compound. Carrying the food, they headed inside and to the family floor.

Pyro waved at Ward as he was walking into the building as well, having returned home from work.

"Oh... that smells good," Ward enthused. "Friday? Could you ask Dad if he and the rest of my family would like take-out from their favorite Chinese place? I can run out and get it, if they are interested."

"Of course, Master Fury," Friday responded. A few moments later, she was reporting back. "They are all in agreement. Your father will come and join you, since he suspects you'll need to order more than you can reasonbly carry." There was a trace of amusement in the AI's voice.

"And he is correct, as always..." Ward laughed, waiting by the door for his father to join him.

It didn't take long before Fury joined Ward at the door. He smiled at his son and stepped over to him. "How did work go?" he asked.

"It was boring... which I suppose is a good thing. Wouldn't want too much excitement associated with the money..." Ward laughed, heading out with his father.

"All the more reason to relax with your family now," Fury commented. He wrapped an arm around Ward's shoulders as they left the compound and headed to their own favourite Chinese restaurant.

"As if I need a reason..." Ward's voice carried down the hall as they disappeared from sight.

"I wonder how many more people will see us with our Chinese and want to get some for themselves," Blake commented in amusement, as they went to join the rest of their family.

"Make that at least five more." May smiled as she herded Skye, Hope, Danny and Lian toward the elevator so they could go eat at the restaurant.

Chuckling softly, Blake led Pyro to his mom and dad's room and lightly knocked on the door. "We have Chinese!" he called.

Ben opened the door, ushering his family inside. "It smells good, son..." He led them to the already cleared table where dishes and utensils were already set.

Blake moved over to the table, setting out the food with Pyro's help. "We seem to have inspired other members of the family, too," he commented.

"I think everyone was feeling the need for some individual family time, so it doesn't surprise me." Ben smiled, helping them set the food out, then calling for Deacon to join them while he went to help Doris to the table.

As soon as everything was on the table, Blake sat down next to his son, waiting for his parents and brother to sit down as well.

It didn't take long. Ben made certain Doris had what she needed and everyone else had food and a drink before asking Blake, "So what has you so stressed? I can tell something is bothering you, even if you are in a good mood."

"There's a new criminal on the streets, working for Fisk," Blake admitted. "They call him the Prowler. I don't have any idea who he is...where we can find him...how we can bring him in. Nothing."

"What's he doing?" Deacon asked curiously. "Does he have any patterns? Maybe Friday or Veronica could project possible future crime spots so you could be waiting for him and capture him?!" He had been watching a lot of crime dramas on television.

"No discernible patterns...but I think it's because he's following Fisk's orders," Blake answered. "He seems to mostly be an enforcer, but he doesn't normally work alone." He shook his head. "Unfortunately, all of my current ideas would end up with me directly facing Fisk." And even if he didn't know his parents wouldn't go for that, he had a responsibility to his son to keep himself safe.

"Well. Give Friday all the information you have anyway. Maybe she'll find something us humans overlooked. And I don't want you going up against Fisk. If we can get evidence, we'll want our strongest people to pick him up. Just in case..." Ben remembered some of the damage Fisk had done in the past.

Blake nodded in agreement. "Fisk is too dangerous to be arrested through normal means." Fortunately, they had the Avengers on their side.

"So... anything else happening?" Ben looked around the group.

"Well, the center is off to a good start..." Pyro said with a smile, before telling them about the various activities and amenities he hoped to offer. "And we've had several parents reach out asking if we would work with them to redirect their kids into a better direction."

Blake smiled proudly at his son. "It's going really well."

"I think so. Just need to ask if any of the rest of the family want to help volunteer there..." Pyro grinned.

"I can't imagine any of them would refuse," Blake commented between mouthfuls of food.

"They'll help. And there are enough of us we could easily spread it out so everyone helps once a week..." Deacon was positive.

Blake nodded. "You'll make a huge difference in their lives," he said with feeling.

"I hope so. I know the way my life was heading before you gave me a chance and helped. I want to give other kids like me a chance." Pyro smiled crookedly.

Blake wrapped his arm around Pyro's shoulders. "I fully believe in you, son," he said seriously.

Ben smiled at his grandson. "We all believe in you. You're doing good work."

Pyro blushed, but it was obvious the praise made him happy. He continued to eat.

"In the next few days, maybe I could drop by the centre," Blake offered. "I can have a look...and be someone from the precinct they might feel comfortable talking to, if there's ever a need."

"That would be good. If they could view law enforcement as being on their side..." Pyro nodded.

Blake smiled. "We can talk about the best day, or days, for that to occur," he commented.

Pyro nodded. "Sounds good...."

Blake's smile grew wider and he gently nudged his son's shoulder as they continued eating.

***

Miles stared at the centre as he stood outside it and wondered what he was doing here. He wasn't even going to school anymore, instead leaving the house and carrying out work for Fisk, returning when school was meant to have finished. He and his uncle Aaron had an arrangement; Miles would give his uncle the money he earned from Fisk...and Aaron would bring it round to his Mom. Rio could never accept her son working for and getting money from the city's biggest crime lord, but she could take the money from her brother-in-law. Really, she didn't have another choice.

And now, she wanted Miles to attend this centre that one of those living in the Avengers compound had set up. And Miles had thought about lying and saying that he had gone while just hanging around the streets, but...his Mom had so much strain and stress ever since his father had been killed. And going to the centre was a relatively small thing that he could do for her and have her know about it.

But still. He was far from comfortable here.

Another boy, about 16 or 17 years old, was in the center as well. He was sitting at one of the tables, doing what appeared to be homework. He glanced up as Miles entered, nodding at him.

Miles just nodded back, but didn't say anything. He didn't have any homework to do, of course, and didn't even try to pretend he did. But there were various video games consoles...most of them the most recent. He guessed those who had the money, like Tony Stark, had enough to throw away on video games consoles.

It was a shame he wouldn't be able to steal any of it to sell.

Snorting softly, Miles took out his phone and checked the screen, in case he had a message from Fisk and could leave the centre.

No such luck.

Sighing quietly, Miles shoved the phone away. It was a cheap, old phone...probably wouldn't last for much longer before it needed to be replaced. And then he'd have to find the money to replace that too.

"No homework? Lucky..." the other boy said, with a tired voice. "I'm Kamran. Have a report due tomorrow and a test to study for, or I'd be playing one of those games...." He chuckled.

Miles paused, glancing towards the other boy. "I'm Miles," he said finally. "What's your report on?" He wasn't attending school, but he wasn't ignorant. Maybe he could help a little.

"The Battle for New York..." Kamran grimaced. "Apparently, living in Jersey City when it occurred means I don't know enough about it. Easier not to argue with the teacher for a different topic."

Miles snorted softly and walked over to sit down. "Not sure there's a lot more I know about it, but I can try to help," he offered.

"That's great, man! I mostly finished. Just... sometimes it helps to have someone else look over it and make sure it makes sense, you know? If you don't mind?" He slid the report over for Miles to look through.

Miles nodded and shifted so that he could look over the report. He made a few suggestions; nothing major, but a couple of things had been left out that he figured putting in would make the report better.

"Thanks, man. It looks a lot better..." Kamran said gratefully. "...And now I can study for that test."

"What's the test on?" Miles asked.

"Honors English..." Kamran flushed and he ducked his head. "Hoping to get into the community college this summer if I can get my diploma..." He sighed. If he could keep under the radar so that no one checked into his home life and discovered he was hiding from some nebulous spy organization....

"When is the test supposed to be?" Miles asked curiously. Hearing Kamran talk about his future...it made Miles think about his own future. Past the whole working for Fisk thing.

He pushed those feelings aside. Even if he didn't work for Fisk, there was no way he could go to college. He needed to finish school first. Besides, his mom needed the money he earned from Fisk. Even if she didn't know that was where the money was coming from.

"It's my third period. Do you go to the same school as me?" He gave Miles the name of the school that was closest to the center. He was intelligent enough to go to the magnet school for sciences, but his need to keep hidden meant he didn't even attempt it.

"Oh...no, I go to a different school." Miles gave the name of a different school; a public one not in the best or safest area. Of course, he didn't go there anymore. And even if he did, his work for Fisk offered him a lot more protection.

"Are you a senior too?" Kamran asked. It was hard to tell how old Miles was. He didn't look that old to Kamran, but he seemed older.

"I'm sixteen," Miles answered...which wasn't a lie, though he had only just turned sixteen.

Kamran nodded. "I'm seventeen. I'll turn eighteen a week before graduating... if I graduate. You're smart, though. Bet you could do anything you wanted...."

Miles didn't respond to that. Even if he returned to school now, which he doubted would happen, he couldn't see himself graduating. Instead, he said, "You seem really smart too. I don't think you'll have any problems graduating."

Kamran smiled crookedly. "Hope you're right..." He opened his textbook and began to study.

Miles headed over to the gaming systems, figuring that while he was there, he might as well enjoy himself on the Avengers' dime.

****

Yelena quietly ate, listening to Kaine and Adrian discuss Kaine's plans for the science fair at his school. She was too tired to do more than nod or smile along to the conversation. She'd been having very odd dreams, unsettling dreams.

Kaine was very animated as he talked, sometimes through bites of food. "It's statewide! Not just for my school... so I'll get to see all the ideas of other students! But," he frowned slightly, "my teacher said not all students in all schools can afford to do big projects like at our school. The organizers are looking to see if there might be a way to donate supplies, or sponsor students who have ideas but couldn't afford to try them.... Maybe cousin Tony can sponsor someone? Or give money through cousin Pyro's center to sponsor several someones? Do you think they'd want to do that?"

Adrian was listening intently to what Kaine was saying...although he was also paying attention to his daughter and the fact that Yelena was clearly tired. He reached out to grasp her hand, gently squeezing it, even as he responded to Kaine. "I think that everyone here in the tower would be willing to take part in sponsoring students, not just Tony. I'd suggest bringing the idea up at a family meeting would be a good idea." He knew their family pretty well and was confident in what he was saying.

Kaine grinned. "Okay. I will!" He nodded emphatically.

Yelena smiled at her younger brother. "Are you doing the project solo? Or with a partner?"

"Ned and MJ are my partners..." Kaine smiled, almost bashfully.

Adrian smiled. "You know, you could always invite them round here to work on your project," he suggested.

"Ned would go mental! MJ might even be impressed..." Kaine laughed. "I'll ask them tomorrow!"

Adrian chuckled softly. "They're more than welcome to come round any time they'd like to." He'd finished his own food by this point and reached out to gently grasp his son's hand as well as his daughter's.

"Cool... thanks, Dad..." Kaine smiled, squeezing Adrian's hand. "Can I go hang out with America after I clean up?"

"Of course," Adrian replied, squeezing his hand. He looked towards Yelena. "Have you eaten enough? Maybe we should go to bed a bit earlier tonight," he suggested, having noticed how tired she was.

Yelena looked at her now empty plate and nodded. "I'm full, Daddy..." she agreed. "And that sounds good." She couldn't stop the yawn.

"I'll take care of cleanup, if you want to go and get ready for bed," Adrian offered, standing up. He then added to Kaine, "There's not much to clean up, so I'm happy to take care of it."

"Thank you, Dad!" Kaine hugged Adrian before heading out to meet America.

Yelena stood to help, wanting to stay with her father.

It didn't take long for them to finish clearing up and then Adrian wrapped an arm around Yelena's shoulders, leading her to his room. Like most of the parents, he'd taken to keeping a couple of spare pairs of pajamas in his room.

Yelena snuggled close, not protesting when he led her to his room, waiting patiently for him to hand her the pajamas she knew he kept for her. "Thank you, Daddy..." She smiled, fighting back another yawn.

"You're welcome." Adrian looked at her with obvious concern. "I hope you'll be able to sleep better tonight." A few months ago, he would have assumed that the dreams she was having were just that, dreams. But since Steve had been having dreams about a different dimension...one where it seemed like the people in that world were in hiding...he wasn't going to discount the possibility that Yelena was experiencing something similar.

"I do too." She sighed. "My dreams... feel more like memories. I don't know if they are mine or someone else's, though. They are of the Red Room... and another Yelena." She frowned.

"You could be dreaming of one of your counterparts in another dimension." Adrian waited for her to get changed before he moved over to the bed so that they could comfortably settle in.

"I thought that... but... it doesn't feel like it. I... I think it might actually be one of my memories that I'd forgotten. They made me forget some things..." she admitted sadly, before crawling into the bed next to her father and snuggling close.

Adrian wrapped his arms around her, cuddling her close. "If you think it's a memory, we can ask one of the family members to help you to uncover it, with a therapist there to make sure you're completely supported."

"I think it might be a good idea. Then if I'm wrong and it ends up being another dimension, we'll get more information..." Yelena put her head on Adrian's chest, closing her eyes and quickly beginning to fall into sleep.

"We can talk about it once you've managed to get some proper sleep," Adrian promised, as he began to gently stroke her hair.

Feeling safe and secure in her father's arms and settling at having her hair stroked, it didn't take long for Yelena to fall asleep.

***

After being freed from the facility, Drake and Eddie hadn't ended up returning to their own homes...at least not yet. Drake figured that Eddie (and Venom) were quite happy to stay in the compound...and Drake found that staying here meant he could work on his research with a better team and greater resources, thanks to the reach of the Avengers.

For right now, Drake was finishing off his current experiment in the lab, putting away his samples into the fridge. It was later than he'd realised and he was starting to get hungry.

"Master Drake" Friday spoke once he had began to put away his experiments. "Master Bill is wondering if you would like to join him and Ava for dinner, as he had not seen you joining anyone else."

Drake blinked at the offer, but he responded anyway. "Yes. That would be nice. Are they in one of their rooms, or outside?" he asked.

"Everyone is meeting as individual families tonight... so he and Ava are in his room, if you would like to go there. He has asked Master Eddie as well," the AI responded.

"Thank you, Friday. I will go there now." Drake put the rest of his experiments away and then washed up, before he left the labs and headed to Bill's room.

Eddie was there as well and grinned at Drake. "You get invited for dinner too?"

"Yeah. I got caught up in my experiments and didn't realise how much time had passed." Drake reached out to knock on the door.

Venom poked his head up. "We are hungry!" the symbiote exclaimed. "The food is better here than at Eddie's place."

Eddie flushed, but didn't make any comment...even though Venom wasn't wrong.

The door opened and Bill stepped back to allow them to enter. "Welcome! I hope you like Indian food... I recently took a class on how to prepare it and that's what I've made for dinner tonight." Bill smiled crookedly as he led them to the tiny area where he had a table set up; platters covered it. "As you can see, I might have been a bit ambitious.... but there should be plenty to eat at least."

Venom leaned over Eddie's shoulder, eyeing the platters with obvious hunger. "It smells good," the symbiote declared.

Ava smiled at the two men as they entered. "It looks good too," she commented.

Drake smiled. "I agree with both sentiments."

"Well, have a seat. We can find out if it tastes good too..." Bill smiled and motioned them toward the table.

Eddie took a seat and gently pushed Venom's head back when the symbiote tried to sniff at the food. "It's polite to wait for everyone to be sitting down, Venom."

Venom pouted. "But I'm hungry," he whined.

Drake snorted softly as he sat down, but didn't put voice to his thought that Venom was just like a needy child. He doubted the symbiote would be happy about the comparison.

Bill waited until the others had sat, then sat and began to pass around the platters. "There is plenty, so enjoy!" he directed.

Venom showed absolutely no hesitation, eating his food quickly...almost inhaling it.

Ava was watching the symbiote with some curiosity, but she didn't make any comments. She ate hungrily; the work the scientists were doing was helping her a great deal, including allowing her to have a more normal appetite.

Bill seemed pleased at the appetites being displayed and sated. It meant the food tasted good. Well, it meant that if Ava ate like she was. For all he knew, Venom only cared about quantity, not taste.

"I have to say that this is a success. I wouldn't have believed this was your first time cooking it." Drake smiled as he spoke between mouthfuls. "Thank you for the invitation."

"I'm very happy that you like it. You are welcome to join us any time the family is breaking into small groups," Bill offered. "I know it can be overwhelming until you get used to it, and I'd like to help with that."

Eddie nodded. "There are a lot of people here," he commented. "I'm just waiting for the point where we overstay our welcome."

"I don't think that's ever happened," Ava observed.

"No... you are more likely going to be asked to move in permanently. Be adopted into a family, once you've got to know everyone and discover who you mesh with." Bill smiled.

"Oh, so there's more truth to those rumours than not?" Drake asked curiously.

"Definitely truth." Bill chuckled.

"I guess we'll see if that happens to either of us," Eddie said.

Venom grinned toothily. "I like it here, Eddie!" the symbiote exclaimed. "I don't need to fill up on eating bad guys!"

Eddie's face turned a bit green, though he made no comments.

"How do you like your rooms?" Bill asked curiously. "Your rooms actually connect to mine... I don't know if you noticed... so if you need anything, just knock on the connecting door."

"Is that normal?" Drake asked. "I hadn't seen that they connected, but that is useful to know. So thank you."

"It's typically the head of the family whose room connects to the other rooms of their family... so. Yes? Even though you haven't actually agreed to join a family yet, the rooms you chose connect to mine." Bill smiled. "Maybe Fate is giving us all a big hint," he teased gently.

"Are you offering?" Eddie asked.

"Yeah. I am." Bill nodded.

Eddie's eyes widened a fraction, as he hadn't expected that answer.

"What would that entail?" Drake asked.

"Nothing overly difficult. You'd get a family to do things with, get help if you needed, people who look out for you and care what happened, a place to call home. The only thing we ask for is that you take care of yourself, don't take unnecessary risks, run decisions that affect the whole group by the family...." Bill shrugged slightly. "That's a slightly simplified version, but it's the bare bones."

"Sounds like a perfect setup," Eddie commented, though he wondered if there was a catch he was missing.

"I think everyone here agrees that it is," Ava said softly.

"I think most that have moved here and formed families finds it meets their needs and don't regret it..." Bill nodded.

"And you're offering to...adopt us?" Eddie asked, to make sure he was understanding correctly.

"Yes. It will give you a bit more security in that we can legally help you in ways we couldn't otherwise. Plus... you won't be on your own anymore," Bill said quietly. "There would be some expectations that you follow family rules, which is basically common sense..." He went on to explain the rules.

"So what happens if we break the rules?" Drake asked, after listening intently to the explanation.

"It depends, really, on how badly the rules were broken and the reasons for it, but the family as a whole does tend to use spanking as a discipline or deterrent measure." Bill stated calmly.

Eddie's eyes widened. "Spanking?" His voice squeaked embarrassingly on the word and he turned red.

"What is spanking?" Venom looked at each of them.

Bill glanced toward Venom. He quickly explained while waiting for Eddie to compose himself. "It really isn't that bad... most of the time it has occurred, it was because the person did something that could get them killed. And incidents of that type of dangerous behavior have fallen a bit, because most don't want a repeat."

"Humans are strange," Venom declared at the end of the explanation.

"From what I've seen, it serves another purpose," Ava said quietly. "It draws family members closer together. It's a way of dealing with things that in other areas could result in much worse consequences."

"If it's an accepted thing here...and this family clearly works with it...then it seems like a good idea," Drake commented. "I did perform experiments that were more dangerous and deadly than appropriate, but...I believe I have learned my lesson from those."

"Venom does keep me protected from harm," Eddie said, not mentioning the fact that the symbiote had also fed on his organs. They were in agreement now that that wasn't going to happen. "Does that make a difference?" he asked.

"It depends on the situation. Deliberately doing things that could get you killed if Venom wasn't there, for no good reason? Would get you a spanking. As strong as Venom is, I'm sure he can't protect from everything. And what happens if he gets hurt?" Bill sounded almost stern.

"I'm strong and can protecct both myself and Eddie from harm!" Venom said proudly.

"It's not outside the realm of possibility," Drake pointed out calmly. "You've been separated from Eddie before...and we know you can't survive without a host. Besides, we have no idea what was learned about you while we were all imprisoned. What if HYDRA's found another weakness?"

Venom seemed to deflate at that.

"It is always better to not take unnecessary chances. When they are necessary, then we do what we can to make it as risk free as possible..." Bill said firmly.

"Yeah. Okay." Eddie nodded. "That makes sense."

Bill smiled. "I think both of you joining Ava and I in our family would be a good thing. If you want to consider it, I can ask for your decision in the morning, or later this week if you need more time to think...."

"I don't need to think it over," Drake stated. "I want what you're offering. I don't have any family left. Belonging somewhere, after so long...I think I need that."

"I don't think I need time either," Eddie said. "But...me and Venom...we come as a package deal."

"I wouldn't have expected anything else." Bill nodded at Eddie, before continuing, "I'll have Matt bring the paperwork. We can sign and he can submit it in the morning."

Drake raised his eyebrows. "It sounds like you have it all down to a fine art."

"If someone moves in here, I think it's a guarantee that they'll be either adopted...or join the family as a sibling to those in charge." Ava shrugged. "I'm glad to have three new brothers." She smiled.

Venom grinned toothily and snaked out a tentacle to grab one of the remaining pieces of food.

"She's not wrong," Bill said, in amusement. "It happens often enough that the resident family lawyers have Friday inform them any time it looks like a possibility and they get the documents ready to go."

"Okay, well at least it means there's no waiting around once the decision has been made," Eddie commented. "It's going to be nice to have a family," he added, almost a little wistfully.

"It is a good thing. I'm glad you decided to give us a chance." Bill smiled as he stood and began to clear the table to take dishes and platters back to the kitchen area. "Anyone want ice cream to celebrate?"

"Ice cream? Definitely." Eddie's eyes lit up.

"Ice cream would be good to celebrate," Drake agreed.

"Is there chocolate?" Venom's interest was immediately piqued.

"Knowing this family? I'm pretty sure there is a full shelf in the freezer dedicated to ice cream. There are probably numerous variations of chocolate, including plain chocolate." Bill grinned. "Follow me to the kitchen and you can pick out what you want. I'll have Matt meet us there."

All three of them quickly rose to follow their father. Venom made no attempt to hide or withdraw back into Eddie, clearly wanting to get his own ice cream.

*****

Yelena Belova had watched the news. She could recognize Natasha's work, even if her face was never seen. She'd done her research and knew her 'older sister' had found a family. Natasha had gone soft and forgotten her roots. She would have realized Yelena had been stalking her the last several weeks if she hadn't. She'd rented a room from one of the retired couples in the small town next to what was known as Avengers Compound and settled in to watch from a distance.

***

Natasha might have joined the family as a whole. She might have two children of her own now. But she wasn't ignorant, or naive...and she hadn't gone soft, either. She was aware that there was someone watching her, who had been doing so for probably several weeks.

The problem was, she had so many potential enemies...both personal and part of the family...that it was difficult to pinpoint exactly who it might be.

Because of that, Natasha had asked Clint to meet her for a coffee at one of the small cafes nearby. If she was able to feel someone watching her, she knew he'd feel it as well. And they thought and acted the same way...but Clint was likely to see things she hadn't, and vice versa. If he thought there was danger, she'd get other members of the family involved.

***

Even if she thought Natasha had gone soft, Yelena wasn't foolish enough to risk Natasha catching her. She kept her distance. She'd set a tiny camera onto a speed limit sign on the road leading from the compound into the town and whenever it picked up movement, she'd look to see who it was. Given that the compound was also a base for SHIELD, there were numerous notifications that she really wasn't interested in. But when she finally saw Natasha leaving with one of her new family, Yelena was ready. She put a drone into the sky to spy on them.

***

Natasha didn't actually confide her suspicions to Clint. She wanted to see if he got the same feelings that she did; if he didn't, then there'd be a good argument made for it being her imagination.

But she didn't think that was the case.

Inside the cafe, Natasha slid into one of the booths and picked up a menu...looking through it while still keeping an eye on her surroundings. Of course, that wasn't uncommon behaviour for either of them.

Yelena had watched through the drone as the two had gone into the cafe. She had to ask herself, how far did she want to take her spying? What was she trying to accomplish? Natasha wasn't an assignment, after all. Yelena was just curious about the woman's new life. A little jealous. Mostly happy for her. Unless she wanted to be seen, she needed to stay out of the cafe. Looking at the drone's camera view from her phone, she frowned. Natasha was safe and happy. That's all that mattered.

Calling the drone back to her, she went back to her rental and began to pack. She'd been called on an assignment. She'd check in again when that was over.

****

Clint sat across from Natasha, head slanted as he studied her. "I don't doubt you wanting to spend alone time with me... I'm an awesome brother and all... but something is bothering you," he said bluntly. "I'm guessing it has something to do with that drone that followed us the last two blocks as we were walking?"

"You're right on both counts," Natasha said honestly. "I did want to spend some time with you...we haven't really been able to do that so much since moving into the compound. But I also wanted to see if you felt the same thing I did," she admitted. "It's felt like someone's been watching me for a couple of weeks now. But since there's been no attempt by anyone to reach out, or to make an attack, I was starting to wonder if I was just being paranoid."

Clint frowned at that. "The drone following us indicates it wasn't paranoia. The fact they haven't made an attempt to contact you is worrying...." He paused. "We should tell Friday. See if she can access cameras outside the compound. See if it caught any faces.'

Natasha nodded. "That's a good idea," she agreed. "I can send Friday a message now about it." She took out her phone to do so.

Clint nodded. While she did that, he ordered for both of them. He knew what his sister liked, after all.

****

Druig had managed to escape Arishem. It had been close, but he'd done it. He'd even managed to make it back to Earth, despite not initially knowing where he'd been taken. Of course, now he had to keep moving. Use his powers sparingly. Try to figure out a way to keep Arishem from finding him again.

Not an easy feat. And his focus on hiding from Arishem caused him to not be as careful with the Earthlings. He got noticed.

***

Miles hadn't planned to return to the centre. He didn't think that he needed it. He was perfectly capable of looking after himself...and he had his uncle to help him with anything he couldn't handle himself.

But his Mom was so happy that he'd given the centre a chance. And he felt guilty for giving up without giving it more of a try. And that was the only reason he was back at the centre. Not because a part of him actually liked being around other people his own age.

Kamran was living at the center. As long as he didn't cause problems or do illegal things, they were willing for him to stay without questions. It enabled him to continue with his schooling. That was important to him. He wanted to be able to support himself without becoming one of Wilson Fisk's lackeys. The Kingpin had already tried to recruit him twice. He was very careful not to use his abilities. That would draw the wrong attention.

When Miles entered the centre, he glanced towards where Kamran was, able to see that the other teenager was working on his schoolwork. Ignoring the faint twinge that reminded him he should be in school...that his mom believed he was studying while at the centre...he headed towards the game consoles again.

Kamran finished up his assignments, then put his books in his pack and took it back to the room he'd been assigned. Locking it- he didn't have much, but he didn't want to lose what he did have- he went back out and sat on the couch a couple of feet from Miles. "You mind if I play a round with you?"

"Sure." Miles handed him the other controller. "It's Street Fighter," he added.

"Huh... Cool..." Kamran took the controller and settled in for some mindless entertainment.

Miles played for about twenty minutes before his phone went off. He took it out and scanned the coded message that had come through from Fisk. "I've gotta run," he said, putting the controller down. "It was nice playing with you."

"Everything okay?' Kamran had noticed the way Mike's looked at the phone and while it wasn't overtly concerning, he did seem slightly anxious.

"Just an errand I've gotta run for my Mom." Miles forced a smile to his lips as he tucked his phone back into his pocket.

"Yeah... Okay." Kamran was obviously skeptical, but he didn't say anything else. "Thanks for the game...."

"It was good." Miles hesitated. "Maybe we could play again tomorrow? Unless you're busy?" he suddenly suggested.

"I'd like that," Kamran agreed, with a smile.

Pyro had come to the center to make sure there wasn't anything that was needed and noted the two younger men talking. He unobtrusively looked at the log-in book to see who they were and what time they'd come in, before going to his desk and beginning paperwork.

Miles nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow." He headed towards the door, slipping out of the centre and quickly making his way to join his uncle and the rest of Fisk's gang.

Pyro made sure Miles logged out, nodding at the younger man in thanks. If anything happened, the log book would give them a heads up on who might be in the building and need help or rescue.  He glanced toward Kamran. "You staying the night again?" he asked, in a friendly tone.

"Yeah. Until I graduate and can get a full time job... is that okay?" Kamran asked.

Pyro nodded. "Of course. Let me know if I can help...."

Kamran smiled. "Thanks."

Since he'd spoken to his son about dropping by the centre to make sure that the teenagers there knew there was a friendly face in the police, Blake headed to the centre, arriving shortly after Pyro had and after Miles had left. He wasn't dressed in his uniform, figuring that he didn't want to scare off any of them, but any of them who'd had run-ins with the police would likely recognise him.

Kamran had kept his nose clean and tried to stay under the radar once he'd run from Jersey City. He didn't want those shady government types to figure out where he'd gone, especially since Kamala, her family and friends weren't close enough to help him anymore. It hurt he couldn't contact his own family, but they were as bad as the shady government types; worse, considering they had no qualms about dooming an entire dimension to death. The end result was that he didn't know who or what Blake was, though the older man had an air of authority that couldn't be ignored.

Blake smiled at Kamran and moved over to hold his hand out to the teenager. "Hello. I'm Christian Blake," he introduced himself. "I'm John's father."

Kamran shook Blake's hand, darting a glance toward Pyro. "John's your real name? Should I use that instead?"

Pyro grinned. "Naw. Everyone here knows me as Pyro. Only Dad calls me John... although usually he only does that when I'm in trouble..." he teased, eyeing his father.

"Or around people we don't necessarily know that well yet." Blake reached out and drew Pyro into a one-armed hug, smiling at Kamran. "I'm a police detective. I thought I'd come by the centre so that I can be visible if anyone needs help. Even if it doesn't involve the law."

Kamran's smile turned slightly nervous. "That's good to know... is that why Fisk doesn't try and recruit me here? I have to avoid him everywhere else...." He didn't ask if Blake worked with other agencies, not wanting the ones who'd chased him and Kamala to get wind of his location.

"It probably is," Blake replied. "We live at Avengers Compound, so I think Fisk would avoid tangling with anything the Avengers are involved in." He smiled, although the thought of Fisk still bothered him. Thanks to the protection from the family, his smaller unit was safe from the crimelord...but he still remembered being under the man's thumb and how he'd been forced to go against his own conscience and morals.

"That's good. My living here gives some small protection. I know some of the others, who only come by for the afternoon or part of the day, aren't so lucky. Think they are working for him..." Kamran said softly, frowning, as he thought about Miles and how suspiciously he'd been acting (at least, it felt suspicious to Kamran).

Blake nodded. "I wouldn't ask you to betray the trust of any of your friends, but if there's anyone you're particularly worried about, I'll look into them. Unofficially." Kamran's comment about living at the centre caused a thoughtful expression to pass over his face.

"I... I don't know for sure. Just... one of the boys I talk to. He's younger. I never see him with any homework and I never see him in the school either, which means he either goes to one of the schools that is further away, which would make it difficult for him to be here so early so frequently, or he's skipping school. And he's really smart... the kind of kid Fisk would love to get his hooks into..." he said uncertainly. It really wasn't his business and Miles wouldn't thank him for sic'ing the detective on him when Kamran had absolutely no proof to back up his gut feeling.

"If you tell me his name, I'll take a look into his history. If he's got a record with the station. Nothing official," Blake promised. "I'm not looking to arrest anyone coming here, or get them into trouble. But if someone's in something over their head, I can help."

"I just know his first name... Miles..." Kamran glanced at Pyro.

Pyro's eyes widened. "Miles Morales. His father used to be a cop, but he died in the line of duty. His mom is a nurse... if Fisk got him...."

"Don't say anything to him," Blake directed. "If he's coming here to the centre, it means there's a chance we can talk to him." He frowned. "Miles hasn't been on the radar, but his uncle has been arrested several times for petty crime. He always managed to get off on technicalities, though."

"He's a smart kid. If he's helping Fisk, there has to be a reason..." Kamran muttered

Pyro nodded. "He's probably trying to help his mom...."

"If that's the reason, we can help him out so that he doesn't have to be in any debt to Fisk," Blake commented. "Can you see if he'll tell you anything when he comes next?" he asked both Pyro and Kamran.

"I can try... he didn't seem eager to answer my questions when I asked before, but maybe I was just asking the wrong ones..." Kamran shrugged slightly.

Pyro nodded. "He's actually talked to you, which is more than he's done with me, so you should do that. Meanwhile, I have logs of when he has been here and when he's left. Maybe that will help you, Dad?"

"That would help, son, thank you." Blake squeezed Pyro's shoulder gently before turning to Kamran. "You mentioned you're living here, at the centre. You don't have anywhere?"

"No, sir..." Kamran responded respectfully. "I can't afford to rent a place without a full-time job. But I'm trying to get my diploma, so..." He shrugged.

Blake nodded and then looked at Pyro, motioning for his son to follow him over to the other side of the centre...where they wouldn't be overheard.

"Let me get those logs for you, Dad..." Pyro said, letting his father come behind the front desk with him.

Kamran gave a tiny wave. "I'm gonna just go to my room and start on my reading for tomorrow's history class... if you need me " He turned and headed toward the rooms. Pyro knew which one he was in.

Once Kamran was out of earshot, Pyro asked, "What are you thinking Dad?"

"Kamran seems like a good kid," Blake commented. "I think maybe he needs the kind of help that the family can offer."

"He hasn't caused any problems since moving in," Pyro agreed. "I see him studying more often than not. He keeps to himself. I'm not sure what he's running from... but sometimes he gets a nervous look on his face and looks around like he's afraid someone or something will catch him. That doesn't mean I'm against your observation, by the way. But it might be something you want to investigate before bringing him home. In case trouble follows him...." He paused. "If you found a way to meet Miles' mother... get her to move in with the family and bring Miles... if he is mixed up with Fisk, it would be easier to get him out. Maybe Grandpa could talk to her...."

Blake nodded. "I'll try talking to Kamran. See if he might be willing to confide in me. And you might have a point about talking to your Grandpa. I knew Detective Morales. He was a good man. I know he wouldn't want Miles going down the wrong path."

"I can ask Grandpa at dinner tonight..." Pyro smiled. "We could invite Kamran for dinner too... if he's worried about school, just let him know portals are easy and free?" he said cheekily.

Chuckling softly, Blake reached out and gently squeezed Pyro's shoulder. "I'll do that," he replied.

"I only have a little bit of paperwork to do before we can head home... if you want to talk to him... invite him." Pyro smiled and gave his father the room number.

"Thank you." Blake headed to that room and knocked lightly on the door.

Kamran quickly came and answered the door. "Yessir?" he asked uncertainly, hoping he wasn't in trouble.

Blake smiled reassuringly at the teenager. "Would you like to join Pyro and I, and the rest of our family, for dinner tonight?" he asked.

Kamran blinked, eyes widening. "You want me to come to Avengers Compound to eat?" He couldn't keep the excitement out of his voice. While he wasn't starving, the thought of a hot meal where he wasn't limited to how much he could eat was exciting.

Blake smiled at the obvious excitement. "Yes. I would really like you to come," he said sincerely.

Kamran paused. "Will I be back in time for curfew?" he asked hesitantly. If he got locked out of the building, it would make it difficult.

"We have portals," Blake replied. "You wouldn't need to worry about time. Or the cost of travel."

Kamran relaxed. "Okay. I just need to put my bags in my locker..." He smiled, before going to stuff his school books into his school bag and all his personal belongings into the carry-on he had. "I know this is one of the safest spots in the area, but still... I can't afford to lose my stuff and the lockers are more secure...." He gave an embarrassed shrug.

Blake nodded. "If that's how you feel more comfortable, there's no problem with it." He walked alongside Kamran, heading back to join Pyro.

Pyro noticed what Kamran was doing. "Just bring your bags with you. Knowing the family, you'll get caught up in fun stuff and then it will be late and someone will insist you stay the night and we can bring you back in the morning..." He chuckled.

"That's a good point, son," Blake agreed. "Bringing them might be a better idea," he said to Kamran.

Kamran blinked. "If you're sure..." he said. He didn't have much, but he had to admit it felt better to keep his belongings with him.

Blake nodded. "I'm sure." He waited for Kamran to retrieve his belongings, then the three of them left the centre to head to Avengers compound.

***

Rio's shift had finished earlier at the hospital than she'd initially thought it would, so she was a bit earlier coming home. She let herself into the tiny flat and smiled when she saw Miles on the couch, watching TV hunched over. She walked over and kissed the top of his head. "How was school today?"

"It was fine." Miles smiled up at her.

Rio was going to ask if he had any homework to be getting on with...she hadn't seen him with any for a while...but her attention was caught by Aaron coming into the room. She smiled at him. "Thank you for being here."

"You know I wouldn't be anywhere else." Aaron stepped closer to her and reached into his jacket, taking out a stack of bills that he then handed to her. "Here. This should help."

"Aaron." She looked into his eyes. "Please tell me this isn't dirty money."

"It's clean." He smiled, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I promise."

***

The portal to the compound was through the Sanctum. The sorcerers knew Blake and Pyro and were ready to lead them to the door. They only gave Kamran a cursory glance. If Blake and Pyro were comfortable with him, who were they to say anything?

Kamran followed them through without pause. His lack of wonder or surprise at taking a magical portal to the compound was obvious.

Pyro glanced at the younger man with surprise. "You know other magic users?" he asked.

"No!" Kamran blurted nervously. He didn't want anyone to connect him to Jersey City,or his family.

Pyro didn't push. By this point, they had passed through the portal door, which was in the tree houses, and were walking to the compound. "Dad will show you to a room and then to the dining area. I need to ask my grandpa something, but I'll meet up with you again soon!"

"Oh... okay..." Kamran watched as Pyro quickly disappeared into a room, he could only assume was the grandfather's room. He turned to look at Blake. "Uh... where you want me?"

"Here." Blake still had an empty room connected to his own. The rate the family was growing, Tony had made sure all of the parents had room for if they needed to add extra children. Blake's family was one of the smaller ones, but even they had extra rooms if needed. And he led Kamran to that one.

***

Pyro had found his grandfather and explained to Ben about Miles and the fear that the younger boy had got mixed up with Wilson Fisk. He'd explained what he knew about Miles' home life and the kid's uncle and mom. And then he'd left to join his father and Kamran, a huge grin on his face, because Ben had immediately picked up his phone and had Friday patch him through to talk to Rio. With his grandfather on the mission, there was no way they wouldn't get Miles away from the Kingpin.

Ben watched his grandson leave the room while he waited for Rio to pick up the phone, and thought about what he needed to say to her.

***

Rio had been preparing food for the three of them, with Miles' help, when the phone rang. She left Miles stirring the food as she headed over and picked up the phone, after drying her hands on a tea towel. "Rio Morales speaking."

"Hello. My name is Ben Urich. I'm John Blake's grandfather. John runs the center that your son Miles goes to. He has noticed some things that he is concerned about and well, I'm prepared to offer you a solution if you want to take it...." He proceeded to explain about Fisk attempting to recruit younger men and Pyro's fear he had targeted Miles. He then made the offer for her to move to the compound.

"Wait...what?" Rio sounded confused at first...and then worried, fear edging her tone as she asked, "Is he in immediate danger?" She wouldn't hesitate if she thought her son was in immediate danger. If Miles wasn't, she could take a bit of breathing space to consider her options.

"We don't believe he is in immediate danger, but he has been at the center a few times when he should have been in school and has been a bit reticent about answering questions that shouldn't be a problem to answer. It could be typical teenage behavior, but given Fisk's active recruiting in the area, we were concerned..." Ben attempted to reassure her without downplaying the concern. "I've told you what I know. My grandson likes Miles and thinks he has a bright future. Wants to make sure Fisk doesn't mess that up. I know what I've just offered you is unusual and you might be tempted to turn it down as charity... but it wouldn't be. Someone of your ability... I have a feeling the family would be going to you for help, so you'd be helping us too...."

Rio hesitated. If she'd been convinced that Miles was doing everything he should, that he was going to school and wasn't in any danger from Fisk, she wouldn't have hesitated to voice that. But the problem was, she'd noticed differences in Miles; differences that had been there since her husband had died.

The problem was, Rio didn't think that Miles was the only one hiding things. She looked down at the money on the counter that Aaron had given her and made a decision. "I don't believe he'd willingly put Miles in danger, but...my brother-in-law, Aaron Morales, I think he might be involved." Her voice was soft. She didn't think she was in any danger from Aaron, but if she was wrong...she didn't want to upset him, or make him feel bad.

Ben paused at that for only a few seconds, but he knew the family and he knew if anyone was capable of helping turn people's lives around for the better, it was the family. While he personally might be the one to bring in Rio and her small family, he had no doubt he'd have the full support of the other heads of house. This gave him the ability to offer confidently, "All three of you are welcome. If your brother-in-law is mixed up with Fisk and truly wants out, we'll help. And if you need help to convince him to get out, we can do that too."

Rio took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she admitted, "I don't think I can convince him alone. He's always been involved in the wrong crowd, even before...." Her voice trailed off. "If you think you can help, if you're offering to help...I shouldn't turn it down," she admitted. "We need help."

"I am offering," Ben stated firmly. "There are three rooms here at the compound that will give you your own space, while enabling you to meet and mingle with the rest of the family. We can begin working to convince your brother-in-law as soon as possible, while making sure Miles doesn't get caught in the same web."

"All right. I'll take the offer. Even if it wasn't just for me...Miles could do with being there. I know he needs help," she said quietly. "That's why I wanted him to go to the centre."

"I'm glad," Ben said, obviously happy with her decision. "If you let me know when you are able to move, I'll make sure I get a group together to help you move. Also, if you need any help getting out of your lease. We have a permanent portal from the compound to the Sanctum, so getting to your job, should you want to stay there, will be easy."

"I'm working shifts all week," Rio said. "Perhaps the weekend would be better." She sounded a bit hesitant, though. Part of her felt that moving as quickly as possible would be better...but at the same time, she didn't want to let the hospital down. They needed her.

Ben could hear the hesitancy. "Look... I don't want to pressure you. If you need the week to think about it and prepare, I'll be ready when you are. But if the hesitancy is for another reason...? Like I said. There is a permanent portal from the compound to the Sanctum. Several of the family use it to get to the city for their jobs. If you don't think taking public transport from the Sanctum to your job is feasible, I'm certain we could figure something else out that will be feasible. Even so, I'd like you to come tomorrow so you can see the compound. Get an idea of what it will be like to live here. I'd suggest coming tonight, but as it is short notice...." he said, with a hint of self- mockery.

"We're about to eat," Rio admitted. "But I would like to come and see the compound tomorrow. I understand there are a lot of people living there. It isn't something any of us are that used to, living with a lot of people."

"That sounds good. If you want to call me with a time tomorrow, I can make sure to come meet you. Walk with you to the Sanctum so you know how to get to the portal," Ben agreed.

"I will," she agreed. "What is your number?"

Ben quickly gave her his cell phone number. "I'm looking forward to seeing you tomorrow," he added sincerely.

"I'll call you," Rio said. "I won't talk to them about it tonight. I'll let the Avenges speak for themselves and then...." She sighed. "Hopefully, they'll see what's good for them without help." She had no problems dragging Miles with her, no matter how much he might protest. Aaron could prove a bit more tricky.

"I think we will convince them," Ben said confidently. Others had been convinced, after all. "Until tomorrow, then. I will wait for your call." Ben waited long enough for her to respond if needed, before disconnecting the call. He went to find the rest of his family to inform them of the guests they would have the next day.

After the call was finished, Rio went to join her son and brother-in-law...not mentioning anything about the phone call she'd just had. They'd probably both argue with her about moving in with the Avengers, so she wanted to make sure she had support backing her up when it came to it.

****

Druig slumped on the motel bed and yawned. He'd managed to get away from the government agents whose attention he'd caught. He hadn't wanted to use his abilities to do it; there was more risk of Arishem finding him again if he used his powers, but he'd ended up not having a choice. They'd picked him up in a tiny South American town, carted him across nearly two continents, and took him into some top-secret installation on what he thought was the east coast of the United States. When they hadn't got whatever they were looking for from him, he'd learned they planned to make him disappear into some high security, super-powered prison. That's when he'd used his abilities. He'd controlled two of the agents guarding him and got them to not only escort and release him from the installation, but to erase all record of him having been there. Then, he'd run.

When he'd finally tired enough that he had to stop, he was in a tiny town with only one hotel. He had influenced a hotel clerk to give him a room, for free, and immediately gone to hide away. He barely even nodded at the pretty blonde girl going onto the room right next to his. The address on the hotel stationary stated he was in New York in a very tiny town "right next to Avengers' compound!" (According to the clerk who had checked him in, who was giving him a list of sights to see).

****

Yelena had returned to the hotel after spending the day getting as much information about the town and the compound it was next to. She had noted the young man at the front desk and had immediately realized that he was somehow convincing the clerk to give him a free room without giving any personal identifying information. Somehow, his voice was convincing the clerk. She made a mental note to be careful around him, in case he was one of those powered individuals that could control a person with their voice. She'd heard of those before. She wasn't terribly happy he ended up in the room next to hers, someone with powers often brought their own sort of trouble and she didn't want mixed up in it, but she nodded back in a friendly way anyway. She wouldn't view him as an enemy unless he made himself one.

***

Ikaris wished he could say he was happy. He had Sprite with him, and he had Dane and Kate...and he loved the three of them with all his heart and would die for them. But he was still feeling a hole inside, where his other son should have been. Where Druig should have been. And finding him and the others was proving to be difficult, if not outright impossible.

Sighing, Ikaris asked the question he did every day...without much hope of the answer having changed. "Friday? Has there been any sign of Druig?"

"I am sorry, Master Ikaris, I have not heard of anything specifically that could be attributed to him..." The AI sounded very apologetic.

Dane had walked in just as Ikaris asked his questions and heard the AI's answer. He saw his father's face and felt bad. He wanted to help his father. It was another way he was useless. Couldn't fight. Couldn't use his inheritance. Couldn't help his father find his brother. Smiling crookedly, he hugged Ikaris. "You'll find them, dad. You'll find him."

Ikaris immediately wrapped his arms around Dane and hugged his son tightly back in return. "Thank you, son," he said softly. "I just want all of my family here...safe." He kissed Dane's head. "I love you."

"I love you too, Daddy..." Dane whispered, snuggling close. At least he could do this for his father, give and accept affection. Even if it felt like a selfish way to help.

"Thank you," Ikaris whispered again...though this time, he was saying thank you for the affection; not the words of support alone. Despite his worry and fear for his other son, Dane's presence helped. It helped a lot.

"Feels like I should be thanking you..." Dane mumbled against Ikaris's shoulder in amusement, holding on more tightly.

"Your comfort and support means so much," Ikaris murmured, his voice filled with sincerity.

"Yeah, well... I can say the same to you. Never really had family before. Not like this. I'm just following your lead on what to do. You're a good teacher..." Dane teased softly; even teasing, it was the truth.

Ikaris smiled and kissed Dane's cheek. "I might be a good teacher, but you're a good student," he said; partially joking, but also serious. After all, he couldn't have shown Dane how to be part of a family if his son hadn't been willing.

Dane smiled at that and just continued to snuggle close. He'd stay in his father's arms for as long as the older man needed to hold onto him. If it was making him begin to slide into a more dependent and younger mindset... well, Ikaris had told him he could be his little boy whenever he needed. He figured becoming Ikaris' little boy because Ikaris needed it was just as valid.

Gently rubbing his hands down Dane's back, Ikaris murmured softly, "Why don't we go to my room?" He figured it would be more comfortable there. Plus, his son's pajamas were there...and Ikaris felt the need to have his son as close as possible.

"Okay, Daddy..." Dane whispered, continuing to snuggle close, content to let Ikaris direct him.

Ikaris didn't let go of his son, even as he led Dane towards his room. He opened the door and walked inside, keeping Dane close to him. He closed the door and moved over to retrieve his son's pajamas.

Dane waited where he had been left. Everyone had already eaten dinner, so he knew they didn't need to do anything else for the evening. It didn't surprise him that Ikaris wanted to dress him for bed.

Ikaris collected the pajamas and returned to Dane's side. He kissed his son's forehead and then began to dress Dane in the pajamas.

Dane cooperated as much as possible as he was stripped and redressed, but overall, he left himself completely in Ikaris's hands. "I love you, daddy..." he whispered, feeling his emotions become even more needy and childish the more control he gave to his father.

"I love you too." Ikaris kissed Dane's forehead, then drew him into a close embrace, holding Dane for several moments before leading his son over to the bed, so they could settle in.

Dane hadn't been tired before and it was fairly early for him to be going to bed. He found he didn't care... what he needed now was to cuddle with Ikaris. He followed his father quietly and, once to the bed, crawled in where Ikaris directed.

Stretching out on his bed, Ikaris tugged Dane close, kissing his son's forehead. "I love you," he repeated. "I'm glad you're here, with me. Having you in my life, being your father, makes me very happy."

Dane smiled at that. "I'm glad you came after me. I don't know what I would be doing if you hadn't, but I doubt it would be good..." he said sheepishly. "Need you."

"Considering the behaviour you were getting up to before I stepped in, I think you're right that it wouldn't be good," Ikaris replied. "I need you too, just as much as you need me. Even though it's not in the same way."

"That makes me happy. Want to help you too... not just take all the time..." Dane whispered.

"You never have to worry that you're taking from me, son," Ikaris said firmly. "You've accepted me into your life. Accepted me as your father. That means everything to me."

"Taking care of me helps you?" Dane asked, in a small voice. He was assuming it helped, which was why he'd put himself into Ikaris's hands this evening. But if it didn't help, it turned into Dane being selfish because he liked being taken care of. He wanted to help.

"It more than helps me," Ikaris replied sincerely. "I need you. I need you in my life. And there is no way that could ever change."

Biting his lip, Dane pressed closer. "I'm glad it helps you. I don't want to be selfish... If you need to take care of me as much as I need to be taken care of...."

"I do need to take care of you, son," Ikaris replied. "You're not being selfish needing me to take care of you."

Dane relaxed at hearing that. "When... when we find Druig... will... should I... do I need to 'grow up'?" he whispered.

"No," Ikaris replied reassuringly. "You will always be able to be my little boy, whenever you need to."

"Okay... thank you, Daddy..." Dane nuzzled against Ikaris.

"Don't ever worry about acting and responding to me the way you need to, son. I will always give you what you need." Ikaris stroked Dane's hair.

"Okay, Daddy..." Dane relaxed in his father's grip, contented and safe.

****

The next morning, Yelena stepped out of her room at the same time the strange young man did. She was surprised when he spoke to her.

"Do you know of a good place to get breakfast?" Druig asked curiously

"There is a little shop that serves breakfast foods on the main street," Yelena answered. "I'm going there now, if you would like to join me."

"I would.. thank you." Druig smiled and moved to walk beside her. It didn't take long before they were sat together in the shop, eating and getting to know each other.

***

The next day, Rio was able to get her shift at the hospital covered, which meant she could return home earlier. She wasn't surprised that Miles and Aaron weren't there; even if Ben was right and Miles was skipping school, he was smart enough not to get caught out by staying at the apartment when she was meant to be at work.

Rio changed out of her scrubs and then called the number Ben had given her.

Ben immediately answered. "Hello. Ben Urich speaking...."

"This is Rio Morales," she replied. "My shift has been covered at the hospital. Miles and Aaron are out." She didn't mention that she didn't know where. Given their conversation the previous night, she thought Ben would understand without her needing to say.

"Understood. Do you want to wait for them to return, or have my family locate them and get them home?" Ben asked.

"It might be easier to have your family locate them," she answered. "I can bring Miles with me without any problem. Aaron will be less likely to listen to me."

"Understood. I'll ask Steve and Bucky to help. Steve is very convincing and tends to command respect, even if people don't want to give in... and Bucky's past means he can identify easily..." Ben suggested.

"Do you want me to come and meet them?" Rio asked.

"Steve and Bucky? Yeah. How about I come with them to meet you at the Sanctum, since I want to introduce you to the sorcerers there? That way, they will know you when you travel back and forth to work. Then we can look for Aaron while you retrieve Miles. We can meet back at the Sanctum once they are found and I'll bring you to the compound." Ben was already looking for his brothers.

"All right," Rio agreed. "I'll make my way there now."

***

Steve was settled in the main room, watching a movie with his various grandchildren, who were no longer peacefully watching the movie and were now playfully throwing popcorn at each other.

Ben made his way over to Steve. "I need your help with something," he said quietly, before explaining what he needed. "I need to ask Bucky to help too...."

"Of course." Steve stood up immediately, requesting, "Friday? Could you ask Bucky to meet me and Ben at the elevator, please?"

"He is on his way, Captain, and will meet you shortly," the AI responded.

When Ben and Steve reached the elevator, Bucky was arriving from the other direction. Ben quickly explained and Bucky agreed to help. They made their way to the treehouse with the portal.

Even though the portals were safe enough, Steve still insisted that he and Bucky go through first, ahead of Ben. It was unlikely they'd be facing any threat, but just in case the Sanctum had been compromised, he wanted to make sure Ben was protected.

Ben didn't argue the protectiveness, though it did make him wonder at the wisdom of allowing all the other family to continue using the portal to go to work and school if they were worried about him going through first. He followed quietly and as soon as they seem okay with him moving forward, he walked to the entrance of the Sanctum, exiting the building and glancing around for Rio.

It hadn't taken long for Rio to reach the Sanctum building, as she'd caught a cab from her own apartment. As she approached, it was obvious she was tired...weary. There were dark circles under her eyes, indicating she hadn't been sleeping, and worry lines on her face made her appear older than she actually was.

Ben was immediately worried and moved forward. "Rio?" he asked gently, feeling when Bucky and Steve followed behind him. "I'm Ben. This is Steve and Bucky..." He pointed out his brothers. "We'll get your family safe...' he promised her gently, feeling a need to reassure her.

Rio nodded, glancing at Steve and Bucky as she was introduced to each, before focusing on Ben once more. "I don't expect Miles is in school, given what you said to me."

"Do you think he might be with his uncle?" Steve asked gently.

"If he is...it won't be for any good purposes," Rio admitted. "He's been giving me money, but I don't know where it's coming from. It's only been cash. But Aaron doesn't have a job...at least not one that's legal. He's completely opposite to my husband. His brother." She sighed.

Ben nodded. "I remember your husband. I interviewed him for some articles when he was a young officer. We'll find Aaron. If Miles is with him, we can call you. Just in case, I would call the school. If he is there, then we can meet you there and bring him back here after...."

"We can also ask Friday to look through traffic camera footage. If he isn't in school, it would give an idea where he might be heading..." Bucky suggested.

Rio nodded, though she still looked worried. Learning that Fisk wanted to get his hooks into Miles had left her feeling scared...worried...for her son.

Seeing the look on her face, Steve quickly handed his phone over to Rio. "Call the school," he said softly. "If he's not there, we'll find him. If he's not there, I would suggest you go to the compound with Ben. I know you won't rest until Miles is with you...but at least you'll be around other family members who will help."

"You'd be okay with finding Aaron on your own if you need to find Miles as well?" Ben confirmed. He needed to help Rio and if she'd be better helped having him comforting her while Steve and Bucky searched, that's what he would do. "Will you be willing to do that?" he asked Rio.

Bucky nodded. "I'd feel better if Steve and I found Aaron anyway. He doesn't know you. At least if he's in a bad location with dangerous people, we can handle it."

Steve nodded his agreement. "Go back to the compound. Call the school from there," he suggested. "If Miles is there, Ben will help you arrange to pick him up. But Bucky and I will find Aaron for you."

Rio hesitated, though the idea of being around other people who could support her was very tempting...and it was instinctual to trust the Avengers and the rest of their family members.

"Come... if he isn't at school, the compound will be best situated to help find him quickly," Ben promised.

Rio still looked a bit hesitant, but she went with Ben willingly enough, back to the compound.

Steve turned to Bucky once they were gone. "It's possible that Aaron might be with Fisk, so we'll want to be prepared for that possibility."

Bucky nodded. "Luckily, we've been able to get enough information from Matt, Foggy, Karen and Blake that we know how he operates. He won't take kindly to any shows of what he views disrespect, but I also don't think he'd want to actively go against us, so if we can do this as lowkey as possible, we should be able to avoid an outright war. Unless we want to just take Fisk down completely. I know at least four of our family would be happy with doing that. But that will take time if we want to do it correctly and have him actually in jail, so we probably still need to go as lowkey as possible."

Steve nodded in agreement. "I want to take Fisk down, but we need to do that legally. Make sure it sticks. I know Tony has his lawyers building a case...and Blake has several officers in his precinct he knows aren't in Fisk's pocket. We just can't afford to do anything that might cause the case to fall apart, so I agree. We need to make sure we don't draw any attention to ourselves."

"So .. find and get Aaron without drawing Fisk's attention, if at all possible. Hopefully, Miles isn't there, but if John's concerns are fact, then we won't be that lucky..." Bucky muttered. They were walking quickly toward where it was most likely Aaron would be.

Steve stuck close to his brother's side, very obviously on his guard. They didn't have to go far into Fisk's territory before they heard it.

"Fisk wants his money," a modulated voice growled, coming from round the corner. "And you're going to give it to him, one way or another. Or I promise you'll be very sorry."

Bucky glanced at Steve and slanted his head. Not wanting to draw too much attention or start a war with Fisk was one thing. Allowing someone to be threatened was another. He waited for Steve's directions, though, automatically falling into soldier mode.

Steve just nodded to his brother and signed that they would step in. Still, they weren't going to go in all guns blazing and he motioned towards an abandoned building where they could get a vantage point to what was going on without being immediately seen themselves.

Bucky quickly moved into position where he could see events unfold, as well as see Steve for Steve's directions.

From their vantage point, it was easy to see what was going on down in the street below. There were several men, who Steve assumed were Fisk's goons. Among them were Aaron...and there was also a smaller person dressed in a costume that kept their face obscured. From the rumours, Steve figured this was the Prowler...and he signed that to Bucky before indicating they should head down, as the Prowler was holding a man up by his collar and drawing a fist back to strike.

Nodding at Steve, Bucky jumped over the ledge down onto two of the thugs. He then stood making certain to have his 'Winter Soldier' face on in the hopes that it would scare the others enough that they'd run and abandon Aaron.

Steve quickly followed his brother down, moving to take out the thugs that hadn't immediately run at the sight of Bucky in 'Winter Soldier' mode.

Aaron didn't run, but he did move protectively in front of the Prowler. The man being threatened had taken advantage of the confusion to break free and take off.

Bucky turned his feral grin onto the few remaining thugs who hadn't run, intending to scare them off before Steve cornered Aaron. It might not have been noticeable to anyone but Steve, but he'd placed himself between the thugs and the Prowler, in case the thugs blamed the smaller individual.

A couple of the thugs looked like they might be tempted to take Bucky on, but the rest quickly made a break for it...and the braver ones quickly followed after.

Steve focused his attention on Aaron and the Prowler. "Aaron Morales?"

Aaron frowned. "The Avengers don't come into this territory. Why are you here?" He edged a bit more protectively in front of the Prowler, watching both Steve and Bucky warily.

"Your sister-in-law, Rio. She's worried. She knows your mixed up in something dangerous, even if she doesn't know what... and then she found out Miles has been skipping school and her worry went through the roof. We told her we'd find you and then, hopefully, you could help us find Miles..." Bucky said, not giving away the fact that it was Ben who had informed her of that information, or the fact that he suspected Miles was right there in costume. If Miles told them himself, it would make it easier than if the youngster was forced to identify himself. Not that Bucky wouldn't force the issue if needed, but he hoped to convince them to come to the compound willingly.

"Is she okay?!" The modulated voice the Prowler had been using was gone and now he just sounded like a worried teenager.

Steve nodded and addressed the youngster...figuring that maybe if they talked Miles around, it would be easier to get his uncle on board. "She went to Avengers compound with our brother, Ben. She's completely safe."

Bucky looked at the 'Prowler' and let the Winter Soldier sink back under the surface of his personality, a softer, more caring look in his eyes. "One of the family asked her to dinner and made her an offer that she is considering. But she doesn't want to make a final decision before talking to her family." He looked at Aaron.

"What kind of offer?" Aaron still looked very wary, although his stance was no longer quite as guarded. They weren't attacking him or the Prowler, or trying to arrest them, so he chose to believe they were telling the truth, at least for now.

"Maybe that's best explained by Rio. Once we find Miles so that we can invite you to the compound for dinner. She's waiting there, so the sooner we can assure her Miles is safe..." Bucky left it open for Miles to come clean about who he was.

"I think you already know that I'm Miles." The Prowler took his mask off and stood there, fidgeting with it in his hands. "You're gonna help my Mom?" he asked in a small voice.

"And you as well...both of you," Steve said, including Aaron in what he was saying. "But right now, if you just want to come to the compound and join us for dinner, we would like that."

Miles hesitantly looked up at Aaron, clearly torn about the decision to make.

"Even if you don't stay for dinner, you should come and put your mom's mind to ease," Bucky encouraged.

Miles hesitated for a few moments, squeezing the mask he held in his hands, before he finally nodded, glancing at Aaron.

"The Compound is outside the city," Aaron observed. "I'm not sure we'd get there in time for dinner."

"We've got that covered..." Bucky smirked. "...How do you feel about portals?" He turned to start walking back to the Sanctum, expecting to be followed.

Steve waited for Miles and Aaron to follow his brother and then walked behind, staying alert in case any of Fisk's goons returned.

Bucky had quickly led them to the Sanctum, introducing them to the sorcerers guarding it, and then led them to the portal. He opened the 'door' and stepped through, waiting for the other three to follow before closing the door. He then let Steve take over leading them from the tree houses to the compound.

Miles looked around as they were led into the compound proper, looking a bit uncomfortable as he saw so many people around. His uncle moved closer to him, almost protectively.

"Friday? Can you let me know where Ben and Rio are, please?" Steve requested of the AI.

"Of course, Captain. Currently, they are in the family room. Master Ulrich is introducing Mrs. Morales to the rest of the family. I believe they will be retiring to his private quarters for dinner, though." The AI's response was quick.

"Thank you, Friday." Steve checked the time and figured it was close enough to dinner that it made more sense for them to head to Ben's quarters first. Besides, he figured that Miles might react better if he was introduced to less people at first.

Bucky didn't say anything, just following Steve. He realized Friday must have said something to Ben, though, as the older man was walking to his quarters from the other direction when they arrived, Rio in tow.

Spotting Miles, Rio quickly moved over to her son and pulled him into a hug before she began scolding him in Spanish.

Miles winced, but didn't pull away, even though he said quietly, "Mama...the Avengers are here."

Doris had gone out with Ben to meet Rio, so was there to witness the scolding and hear Miles' soft protest. "That don't make a lick of difference when a Mother is scared and worried, child. Even if you were a grown up!" she said with a smile, though she could have been talking to any of the 'children', as Deacon, Pyro and Kamran had come out.

"Grandma... I set the table like you asked. Is there anything else you needed me to do?" Pyro asked, giving a friendly wave to Miles.

Steve smiled warmly at Doris. "I'm sure the rest of the family would agree with you," he commented, before glancing towards Bucky, figuring that if they weren't needed, they could leave the smaller family to figure things out.

Rio turned her attention to Aaron, though she still held onto Miles. "And he was with you? Working for Fisk?!"

Aaron held his hands up. "He was perfectly safe, Rio."

"Maybe he was physically safe...but that doesn't mean he was emotionally or mentally," Blake said quietly, having reached his family unit by this point.

"No, sweetheart," Doris said to Pyro. "If your uncle Deacon got the drinks from the kitchen, we can all go in to eat...." At Deacon's nod that he had retrieved drinks for everyone, she motioned toward her and Ben's private quarters. "Why don't we take this out of the hall?" she suggested, gently if firmly.

Ben nodded, herding his family and future family toward the room. "That sounds like a wise idea," he agreed with his wife.

By this point, Bucky had left with Steve.

Rio kept her arms around Miles and led him into the room, giving Aaron a look.

Sighing quietly, Aaron followed along behind.

Deacon smiled at the newcomers. "Hi. I'm Deacon. I hope you like pasta. We figured that was the easiest thing to make that could feed a lot of people."

"I like pasta," Kamran said hesitantly. He really only knew Pyro and Miles, so he was watching to see how he should act.

Pyro smiled at Miles. "I'm glad they found you so you could come eat with us..." He left it to Miles' mother to tell them about moving into the compound. If she decided to do so.

"How long until food is ready?" Miles asked, in a small voice...trying to figure out if he had enough time to change out of his Prowler outfit. Being around the Avengers made him feel ashamed of working for Fisk, even though no one had said anything, so he wanted to put on his normal clothes.

"I'd say about ten minutes," Doris said kindly. "Have you decided if you will be staying the night?" She turned toward Rio. "If so, John and Blake can show you your rooms so you can leave your belongings there... if you would like."

Rio nodded once, firmly. "Yes. I think it would be good to stay the night." She still hadn't fully decided on moving into the compound directly, but spending the night would help her to see if moving here would be good for her family...or not.

"I don't have to stay," Aaron said quietly. He had his own apartment as well...not that it was in a good part of town. And Fisk knew where he lived, too. The chances were good the crimelord would be out for blood after what had just happened. Aaron was going to have to make sure the man's ire wasn't directed towards Miles.

"You don't have to go either. There is plenty of room and family should stay together as much as possible," Doris said decisively. She didn't know exactly what had happened, but she could tell by both Miles' and Aaron's demeanors that something had occurred. She'd feel better to know they were safe... at least for the night.

Rio nodded firmly in agreement. "If you're worried about clothing, I'm sure there are things here you can use."

"I think we're a similar size," Blake said to Aaron. "Let me and Pyro show you to your rooms, and then I can get you some clothes for over night and tomorrow."

Pyro quickly moved forward. "Your rooms actually connect to Granddad's and Grandma's room. It's this way." He led Miles.

Blake moved to show Rio and Aaron to their rooms, then left to quickly retrieve some of his own clothes so that Aaron could change before dinner...if he wanted to as well.

Kamran waited with Doris, Ben and Deacon. He wasn't sure what to say or do.

After making sure that Aaron and Rio had everything they needed, Blake returned to the other family members. He smiled at Kamran. "Do you have everything you need?" he asked the youngster.

"I have everything that I own... so, I guess..." Kamran gave a crooked grin.

"If you need more clothes or toiletries, we can always go shopping for some. Or get some ordered in," Blake offered.

"Could we do that?" Kamran's eyes widened and he smiled. "I'd work to pay you back...."

"You don't need to pay me back," Blake replied. "Family takes care of each other."

Kamran's smile turned a little wistful. "I thought they did..." he said softly, with a hint of sadness.

Blake reached out and wrapped an arm around Kamran's shoulders. "You're a part of this family now," he promised.

"Thank you. I... I didn't think I'd have a family again... it means a lot," he said, leaning into Blake.

"You have a family now." Blake made a quick decision. "Make a list of what you need or even want tonight. Then tomorrow, we'll take a trip into the city and pick up what's on the list. I've got vacation time saved up."

Kamran blinked. "I'd like that. I normally go to classes, but I'm there under a false name anyway so not like it matters..." he smiled crookedly.

"We can always go after your classes," Blake offered.

Kamran nodded. "I... I need to avoid well known areas..." he said hesitantly. He was beginning to think he should come clean to Blake about his past. He hadn't truly believed the man was offering him a home... just a hot meal with his family. If he meant for Kamran to live with them, though, it would put a target on the entire compound... either from his mother's group, or from the shady group that wanted him and Kamala.

Blake hugged him a bit tighter. "You ready to tell me who you're on the run from?" he asked softly.

Kamran swallowed, making a quick decision to confess. "Two groups, actually..." he said softly. "Some government agency, the Department of Damage Control... and my mother's group. The Clandestine."

Blake frowned. He'd heard of the government agency, though not of the other group. "What can you tell me about the Clandestine?" he asked softly, knowing that he could get Friday's help to figure out how to handle the Department of Damage Control.

"They... they are my family. They are not from Earth... at least not this Earth... they are from another dimension called Noor. They are long lived. They... they have been called Djinn. If that tells you anything...." Kamran bit his lip. "...I have some abilities that are... unusual." He showed Blake a little of his ability to manipulate light.

Blake wasn't shocked or surprised. After all, his own family had abilities and could do a lot of different things. "Do you need help training those abilities?" he asked, trying to find out exactly what Kamran needed.

"You can do that?" Kamran's eyes widened hopefully. "I didn't have them until... until my mother died closing a rift between Noor and Earth. When she realized opening the gate so they could go home was about to destroy Earth. She closed the rift and somehow transferred her abilities to me at the same time. And then DoDC came after Kamala and me and...and the rest of my family wants me to reopen the rift so they can go home, they don't care who it will hurt, and I ran and I don't know how to control..." He trailed off, as he realized he was babbling.

"I don't have powers myself, but a lot of the family members here do," Blake said. "And a lot of them have had to learn how to control those powers. You're part of the family now. Part of my family. And everything that entails, including support."

"Thank you... I've been so worried and afraid... if I lost control... if someone can teach me how to keep control...." Kamran glanced over, noticing the others had returned. He didn't know how much, if anything, they'd heard. He found he didn't mind the others knowing, as long as he could get help.

"We can set up a meeting with the family tomorrow or the day after," Blake promised. "You don't have to handle this alone." Seeing that the others had returned, he led Kamran over to the table to sit down.

Pyro had come back with Miles in time to hear Kamran's confession. "You have abilities too?" He couldn't help sounding excited. In his immediate family, he was the only one with abilities. Impulsively, he held up his hand and showed off a flame.

Kamran blinked, then smiled and relaxed, realizing Blake hadn't just been trying to make him feel better.

Blake smiled at both of them. "Pyro will be able to help you a lot with learning control," he said to Kamran, a note of pride obvious in his voice.

Rio had returned to the room, alongside Aaron. She moved over to Miles and led him over to the table, encouraging him to sit.

Kamran nodded before looking at the others. "Thank you for inviting me...."

Blake smiled at Kamran. "You're a good kid. I want you to have the best possible chance you can."

"That's true for all of you," Ben stated. "It's why I would like all of you to move here."

Miles' eyes widened and he focused on his mom. "You're thinking about us moving here?"

"You weren't in school," Rio said. "I recognised that mask you were holding and the costume you were wearing. Here is the best place for you, for all of us. Far away from Fisk's influence," she stated firmly.

"Fisk is bad news..." Pyro agreed softly. "He almost ruined my life. I was lucky to get away... And that I had means to keep him away until Blake found me and gave me a safe home...."

"Yes. Any of us who have had run ins with Fisk can agree it is better not to get mixed up with him..." Ben said somberly. "Given how many of this family has been attacked by him, despite our standing together, if he's got you in his sights, I will feel much better once you are safely here."

Miles swallowed hard, looking at each of the adults in turn. "Does that mean my Mom won't need to work so many hours anymore?" he asked, in a small voice.

Ben smiled at that. "Your mom will only need to work as many hours as she wants to work. I wouldn't dream of telling her she couldn't work. I know one's career can give one purpose and fulfillment." He smiled at Rio, then at Blake. "But it will be because she wants to. Not because of necessity."

"I wouldn't give up my job at hospital," Rio said. "But I wouldn't need to work as many hours. I could be around more. Spend time with you...with the whole family."

Miles nodded and leaned into his mother. "I'd like that," he agreed quietly.

"Does that mean we get to help you move in tomorrow?" Pyro asked hopefully.

"I did have a shift tomorrow...." Rio hesitated. "But I've been encouraged to take some of the vacation time I've built up. I have two weeks, so moving tomorrow would be okay."

"Great! I'll ask the others to help once we finish dinner!" Pyro enthused.

Doris cleared her throat. "And on that note... Let's eat before the food gets cold." She smiled.

There were quick murmurs of agreement and soon, everyone was eating and having comfortable conversation around the table.

The End