I'm in an American Comic Book, and I Start Out As Spider-man
Pairing: Peter/Gwen
Chapter 1: Reborn as Spider-Man
Morning in New York; sunlight filtered through thin clouds, casting mottled light and shadows over Queens.
"Peter, it's time to get up."
A crisp, pleasant female voice broke the silence of the room.
Peter Parker snuggled into his covers, his consciousness still somewhat groggy.
A small hand gently poked his cheek with a hint of flirtatious annoyance and helplessness.
Peter forced his bleary eyes open, and his vision focused.
He saw Gwen Stacy, already dressed in a smart set of casual clothes, her short blonde hair shining brilliantly in the morning light as she leaned over to look at him.
Seeing that Peter still wanted to stay in bed, Gwenreminded him irritably:
"Don't forget, we're going to Osborn Industries for our internship today. It's the first day."
"Mm... right, there's that."
Peter mumbled a reply as his consciousness finally returned. He threw back the covers, making no attempt to hide himself.
As the bedding slid off,
A body as perfect as an ancient Greek sculpture was fully revealed.
Broad shoulders, streamlined lats, clearly defined abdominal muscles...
Every inch of muscle contained incredible explosive power, yet it wasn't bulky like a bodybuilder's; instead, it presented an ultimate sense of beauty and strength.
Even Gwen, who was already familiar with him, couldn't help but let her gaze linger for a moment on those smooth muscular lines.
Her cheeks flushed slightly.
She picked up the shirt beside him and threw it to him, complaining in a low voice while helping him straighten his collar.
"It's all your fault, isn't it? Exercising so late every night, insisting on tossing and turning until you're exhausted before you'll go to sleep."
A mischievous smirk curled on Peter's lips.
He took the opportunity to pull Gwen close and planted a morning kiss on her smooth forehead.
"I can't help it, honey. Ever since I became a Superhuman, my energy is just too abundant. If I don't burn some off, I can't sleep at all."
He was Peter Parker, but inhabiting this body was a soul from another World.
In this Peter's mind,
Marvel was supposed to be just movies and comics, but now, everything had become a reality within reach.
He had even become the famous Spider-Man.
Besides the 'cheat code' of knowing the plot, he had also awakened the essential gold finger for a transmigrator.
A Mission System.
There were daily missions that refreshed automatically, and random missions triggered by interacting with plot characters.
Upon completing them, he could obtain various rewards.
Relying on his foreknowledge of the future and the system's enhancements, Peter quickly adapted to and took control of this World.
He had changed a lot.
For example,
Uncle Ben, who was supposed to have died, was still alive and well.
For example,
He was no longer a lonely photographer; instead, he had snatched up Gwen early on and started a shameless cohabitation life.
Who says Spider-Man has to be a tragic hero who can't afford a sandwich or pay his rent?
Who says he must live like an ascetic under the weight of 'with great power comes great responsibility'?
Looking at his beautiful girlfriend before him, a flash of pride crossed Peter's heart.
Compared to that heavy motto, he believed in a different set of rules—
With great power comes great territory.
Since he was here, Peter was going to enjoy the best of everything.
...
The two of them got ready and walked down the stairs to the dining room.
The air was filled with the savory aroma of frying bacon and the sweet scent of milk and oats.
Aunt May was busy at the stove. Hearing footsteps, she turned around, her face beaming with a heartfelt smile.
"Good morning, children."
Aunt May's gaze swept over the two of them, the smile in her eyes deepening.
Once upon a time,
She had worried that the introverted and scrawny Peterwould be bullied at school or unable to find a girlfriend.
But now, those worries were redundant.
As he grew older, it was as if Peter had suddenly seen the light.
Not only had his physique become robust, but his personality had also become confident, and he had even brought home the daughter of Captain Stacy.
"Eat while it's hot."
Mei placed the plates on the table. "Gwen said you two have an important internship today."
Peter pulled out a chair and sat down, forking a piece of bacon into his mouth and nodding indistinctly:
"That's right, going to Harry's family company. I wonder if he'll give me a back-door favor for old times' sake."
"That won't do."
Aunt May immediately put on a stern face, lecturing him with feigned seriousness.
"Your Uncle Ben often says you should be an upright person and not always think about taking shortcuts."
Gwen said with a smile:
"Aunt May, Peter spends all day acting like brothers with the young master of Osborn Industries. Those managers will only take the initiative to flatter Peter when they see him."
Peter shrugged with an innocent look:
"This is also a network I developed through my own ability. If Harry insists on helping me, I have no way to refuse, right?"
"By the way, where's Uncle Ben?"
"That old man went out for a run again." Mentioning her husband, Mei was both helpless and gratified.
"Ever since that shooting incident, he's been like a different person, clamoring to exercise and get fit all day."
Hearing this, a glint flashed in Peter's eyes.
That shooting was supposed to be Ben Parker's time of death, but Peter had forcefully reversed it.
"That's a good thing. Exercising more at his age is good for his health. Aunt May, you should also take care of yourself."
Mei looked at her tall and handsome nephew, feeling somewhat emotional:
"Yes, before I knew it, you've grown so big, and I've grown old. I remember when you first arrived, you were only as high as my knees."
"Don't worry, Aunt May."
Gwen timely took Mei's hand and smiled sweetly, "You're still as beautiful as you were when you were young."
Mei shook her head with a smile.
Although she didn't say it, she clearly appreciated the compliment.
After the three of them finished breakfast, Mei saw them to the door as usual and urged them,
"Take it slow on the road."
Pushing open the door, the morning air rushed at them.
An NYPD Police car was already parked at the curb. The window rolled down, revealing the majestic face of Captain George Stacy.
Of course,
Given his achievements, he would soon be addressed as Director George.
George looked at the beautiful couple walking out and said in a displeased tone, "Nice weather today, you two."
"Hey, Dad." Gwen waved her hand.
Peter, meanwhile, pulled Gwen along and expertly climbed into the back seat, as naturally as if getting into his own private car:
"Yeah, Captain Stacy, the weather is indeed nice today. But with this kind of setup, those who don't know better would think we're being arrested."
George glared through the rearview mirror at the young man who had made off with his 'precious cabbage':
"Less of your lip. If I didn't drive you, with your personality, you'd be late on your first day of the internship."
Seeing his daughter leaning on Peter's shoulder in the rearview mirror, George felt quite a pang of bitterness.
Gwen used to be an organized, rigorous, and self-disciplined good girl.
But since meeting Peter, her personality had become increasingly casual, even carrying a hint of laxness.
"Relax, Father-in-law."
Peter leaned back in his seat and smiled lazily, "One needs a sense of relaxation in life. It's so tiring to have your nerves tensed up every day."
"I'm a cop, Peter. I don't need you to educate me on how to live."
George snorted coldly and steadily stepped on the gas.
The siren didn't sound, but a Police car still possessed a natural deterrent on the congested streets of New York.
Who would dare to cross a Police car on the street? Others couldn't get out of the way fast enough.
The way was clear the whole time.
Soon,
The towering Osborn Tower came into view. After the car stopped, the two got out and said goodbye to George.
Under George's threatening gaze that said 'take care of Gwen or else,'
Peter straightened his collar and took Gwen's hand.
"Let's go, future female scientist."
The two strode into the first-floor lobby of Osborn Tower, where the surrounding elites were hurrying about.
Peter and Gwen went to the front desk and collected their intern uniforms and magnetic employee IDs.
A new day had begun.
Chapter 2: The Internship Mentor is Actually My Boyfriend
Osborn Industries Tower.
This building, piercing the clouds like a sword, is not only a landmark of New York but also a holy land of biotechnology.
For ordinary people, being able to step foot here is an honor.
But for Peter Parker, it is as familiar as his own backyard.
The elevator rose steadily, the numbers ticking up.
In the confined space, the pleasant scent of vanilla from Gwen lingered.
Gwen seemed a bit uneasy.
She adjusted the intern name tag on her chest.
Although she was a top student at Empire University, she couldn't help but feel nervous in the face of a giant like Osborn.
"Peter."
Gwen tilted her head slightly and asked in a low, apprehensive voice.
"Do you think the internship mentor will be very strict? I heard that Osborn's Researchers are all paranoid geniuses with very eccentric tempers."
Peter looked at his girlfriend's cute, defensive expression and couldn't help but chuckle, his eyes full of doting.
"Don't worry, I guess he won't be strict; instead, he'll be very... gentle."
"Gentle?"
Gwen looked at him suspiciously, "How would you know? You're talking as if you've met him before."
Peter smiled without a word, his gaze falling on the light screen that only he could see.
[Daily Quest Refreshed]
[Quest Name: Qualified Boyfriend and Mentor]
[Quest Content: Help your girlfriend Gwen Stacycomplete her first day of internship and make her impressed by your abilities.]
[Quest Reward: 1000 Experience Points, 1 Free Attribute Point.]
Seeing the words "Free Attribute Point."
Peter's heart skipped a beat.
In the system's rewards, while Experience Points were good, Attribute Points were what could truly make him stronger directly.
Whether it was strength, agility, or spirit, every point of improvement was a sublimation of his life level.
A curve formed at the corners of Peter's mouth.
He murmured to himself.
"I really have to help Gwen with her internship now. After all, I am her internship mentor."
As the elevator stopped, Peter led Gwen out of the car.
This was the thirty-third floor, the core experimental area of Osborn Industries.
What came into view.
Was a vast space filled with a sense of futuristic technology.
Under the bright lights, the spotless white walls and floors gleamed with a soft luster.
Researchers hurried past, each with focus and pride written on their faces.
However.
That pride instantly crumbled the moment they saw Peter.
"Good morning, Mr. Parker."
A Researcher carrying documents nodded in greeting.
"Hey, Peter, your idea about peptide bond reorganization last time was absolutely brilliant! Please be sure to give me some more guidance when you have time."
Another gray-haired supervisor waved enthusiastically.
Peter's expression was calm.
He nodded politely in response to each, as if long accustomed to this kind of star-treatment.
For Peter, who knew the plot well, this was no accident.
At the beginning of his transmigration, before he even gained his Spider-Man powers, he had made a decision that went against his ancestors...
Oh no, a decision that went against the original work:
He didn't choose to oppose the Osborn Family; instead, he took the initiative to embrace this giant full of opportunities.
After all.
When watching the movies, Peter felt that Norman Osbornwas actually an unlucky guy.
He was a proud, paranoid businessman and scientist who desperately craved success.
But at the same time, Norman was also a father who deeply loved his son.
His tragedy.
Stemmed more from the flawed Super Soldier Serum and the threat of a hereditary family disease.
The power of the incomplete Super Soldier Serumcatalyzed and magnified the dark side of Norman's heart.
Ultimately creating the persona of the "Green Goblin."
Since the root of the problem lay in the serum's flaws, wouldn't it be better to just help Norman fix them?
The Peter of this World was an out-and-out genius with strong independent research capabilities.
And as a transmigrator, Peter.
While inheriting this talent, also possessed the system as a "Golden Finger."
Among the system's rewards.
Knowledge-based skills would often appear, such as "Electrodynamics," which Peter had never delved into before.
After he drew the [Skill: Electrodynamics] from a quest reward.
Related knowledge and application techniques instantly merged into Peter's brain like instinct.
He effortlessly comprehended it on the spot, which was quite ridiculous.
Besides that.
The skill points in the system rewards were even more like cheating.
They could directly increase the level of a certain skill, giving its proficiency a phased boost.
As long as there were enough skill points, theoretically, there was no field Peter couldn't master.
With such an exaggerated rate of progress.
Although Peter hadn't graduated from university yet, his knowledge reserves and research capabilities had already far surpassed the version of himself from the same period in the original work.
They even surpassed the vast majority of scientists in this era.
Using the Decay Rate Algorithm left by his father, Richard Parker, as a stepping stone, and with the help of his close relationship with Harry.
From then on.
Peter transformed into Osborn Industries' youngest and most mysterious Special Genetic Consultant.
He was granted extremely high authority by Norman.
Secretly participating in the work of perfecting the Super Soldier Serum and solving the Osborn Family's hereditary disease.
In a short period of time.
Peter not only became one of the people Norman trusted most.
His status even faintly rivaled Harry's, and Norman treated him as his own.
Even Dr. Curt Connors.
After witnessing Peter's miraculous talent with his own eyes, admired him immensely.
Therefore.
Today's so-called internship was actually just Peteraccompanying his girlfriend through the motions to complete a daily quest.
And to give her an unexpected surprise.
"Peter, they're way too friendly."
Gwen followed behind him, and seeing the respectful attitude of those around her, the confusion in her eyes grew deeper.
She realized.
These people's attitude toward Peter was not at all like treating an intern, but more like treating a high-ranking leader.
Even if Peter was Harry's friend, it shouldn't be to this extent, right?
Clearly.
Gwen still didn't know enough about her deep-hiding boyfriend.
Although Peter had already confessed to Gwen that he was Spider-Man.
This was just the tip of the iceberg compared to all the secrets Peter held.
"Probably because I'm handsome?"
Peter made a joke, then shrugged at Gwen's reproachful look.
"Alright, don't think too much. Maybe it's because I come to see Harry often and happened to help them fix the printer a few times?"
"Fixing a printer can lead to this kind of status?" Gwenclearly didn't believe it.
Just then.
A laboratory ahead opened, and a middle-aged man in a white lab coat and gold-rimmed glasses walked out.
He had an elegant temperament, with a scholarly air in his every move.
What was most striking was.
Both of his arms were intact, and he was flipping through the experimental data in his hand.
Dr. Curt Connors.
In the original work.
He became obsessed with lizard genes because of his missing arm, eventually turning into The Lizard.
But in this World.
Peter had already used the perfected Decay Rate Formulato help him achieve limb regeneration without any side effects.
Now Connors was a top scientist at Osborn Industries and one of Peter's most loyal followers.
"Oh, look who it is."
Connors looked up, his gaze falling on Peter.
Then he glanced at the intern badge on his chest and couldn't help but laugh.
"I didn't expect to see you wearing this, Peter. Seeing these clothes on you makes me feel like your talent is being wasted."
"Dr. Connors!"
Upon seeing the newcomer, Gwen immediately became nervous, her voice carrying undisguised admiration.
"Hello, I'm Gwen Stacy, today's intern. I've read your paper on limb regeneration; it was absolutely brilliant!"
For biology students, Dr. Connors was an idol-like figure.
Connors smiled gently and pushed up his glasses.
"Thank you for the compliment, Miss Stacy. I've heard of you too, a top student from Empire University. Petermentions you often."
"No need to be so nervous."
Seeing Gwen's tense state, Connors said warmly, "I'm not your internship mentor today."
Gwen froze for a moment.
"Eh? You're not the mentor? But the notice said..."
She looked around, puzzled, "Then who is my mentor? Could it be another supervisor here?"
A peculiar smile appeared on Connors' face, and he pointed at the relaxed Peter beside Gwen.
"Your internship mentor is right before your eyes."
The air seemed to go silent for two seconds.
Gwen suddenly turned her head, her beautiful eyes wide, looking at her boyfriend in disbelief.
"What? Peter?! You're my mentor?"
"What, are you surprised?"
Peter took the opportunity to reach out, naturally wrapping his arm around Gwen's slender waist and pulling her into his embrace.
Chapter 3: Sage Mode
Peter looked at Gwen's shocked pretty face and smiled.
"Don't be too shocked, Gwen. If I cared about false fame, I would have gotten several Dr. degrees by now."
Dr. Connors, who was beside them, nodded cooperatively, his tone serious and earnest.
"Peter is right. In fact, without Peter's help, this arm of mine wouldn't exist right now."
"His achievements in the field of Genetic Engineering make even me feel ashamed of my inferiority. Having him guide you is absolutely the highest standard of treatment."
These words, coming from Dr. Connors, carried immense weight.
Gwen felt her brain short-circuiting a bit.
She knew Peter was smart, knew he was an academic ace, and knew he had a good relationship with Harry.
But she always thought that kind of "academic ace" was limited to exceptionally capable ordinary people.
She never expected it.
Peter actually possessed such terrifying academic prowess!
Even Dr. Connors felt ashamed of his inferiority?
Looking at his girlfriend's adoring yet bewildered eyes, Peter felt secretly pleased.
"Alright, Dr. Connors is still busy, so we won't disturb him."
Peter greeted Connors, then put his arm around Gwen, who hadn't fully recovered, and walked towards the end of the corridor.
"Let's go, Classmate Stacy, I'll take you to see my territory."
"Your territory?" Gwen mechanically followed him.
The two arrived at the deepest part of the corridor, in front of a silver-gray metal door.
This door looked much thicker than the others; there was no regular card slot next to it, only palm print and iris scanners.
"Of course."
Peter stood in front of the door, and the scanner swept over his eyes.
"I'm a core Researcher; not only do I have an independent laboratory, but I can also issue you an internship certificate."
Accompanied by the hiss of the hydraulic system, the heavy metal door slowly slid open to both sides.
The lights automatically turned on.
A laboratory with a strong sense of science fiction appeared before their eyes.
A huge holographic projection occupied the center, surrounded by precise instruments Gwen had only seen in cutting-edge journals.
There was no one else here.
This was a privilege Osborn gave to Peter; besides Norman and Harry, no one dared to disturb this place easily.
Even if Harry came, he had to dutifully ring the doorbell.
The heavy door slowly closed behind them, completely isolating the outside noise.
The laboratory was quiet.
This private and enclosed space made the atmosphere subtle.
At this moment, Peter's gaze held an aggressiveness befitting a mentor.
He looked at Gwen, who was wearing a slightly oversized white lab coat.
Although the clothes covered her graceful figure, they added a touch of intellectual and ascetic beauty, giving her a unique charm.
"Alright, Classmate Gwen Stacy."
Peter slowly approached Gwen until he backed her against the edge of the lab bench, leaving her nowhere to retreat.
"Now it's just the two of us."
Peter placed his hands on the table beside Gwen, trapping her between his embrace and the lab bench.
Not only did he block her retreat,
but he also shortened the distance between them to where their breaths could be heard.
"As a responsible mentor, I need to understand your foundation first."
Peter looked into Gwen's flustered eyes.
"How do you want me to guide your internship work? Hands-on teaching? Or a deeper exchange?"
Gwen's face instantly turned crimson, even her earlobes tinged with pink.
She could clearly feel the warmth from Peter's body, and the strong masculine hormones made Gwen's heart race.
Although they already lived together,
being in such an academically charged laboratory still made her feel an unprecedented thrill.
"Pe-Peter…"
Gwen stammered, her hands pressed against Peter's firm chest, trying to push him away.
But that little strength was almost like feigned resistance.
She bit her lip, trying to make herself look more serious.
"Don't be like this! This is at the company, I'm here to learn knowledge!"
"Learn knowledge?"
Peter raised an eyebrow, took one of Gwen's hands, and gently caressed her fingertips.
"Of course, we are here to learn knowledge. The process of scientific exploration often requires great passion, doesn't it?"
...
A lingering, ambiguous scent seemed to remain in the air.
But with the operation of the ventilation system, it quickly returned to cool and dry.
Peter leaned against the lab bench, his eyes clear, showing a transcendent calm.
Commonly known as "Sage Mode."
The in-depth discussion on human anatomy just now was indeed an intense internship.
Gwen sat on a chair, looking slightly tired, her meticulously styled blonde hair now a bit disheveled.
A few strands of hair fell by her ears, adding a touch of lazy charm.
Her cheeks still bore a lingering flush, and although her breathing had calmed, her eyes still held a hint of post-fatigue haziness.
Peter lowered his gaze slightly, scanning the interface only he could see.
"Daily Task: Qualified Boyfriend and Mentor"
"Current Progress: Make girlfriend submit (Completed); Impart professional skills (Not completed)"
"Although the part about making my girlfriend submit was overfulfilled, as a mentor, the real teaching session has just begun," Peter mused to himself.
His performance just now was enough to make any woman prostrate herself, but Gwen was not a mere vase who only depended on men.
She was a top student at Empire University, a future top female scientist.
If he only treated her as a canary,
that would be a desecration of Gwen's talent and a waste of this excellent opportunity for development.
Peter had long planned to cultivate his beloved girl into his most capable and attentive assistant in the future.
Thinking of this,
Peter adjusted the collar of his shirt.
Then he walked over to Gwen and gently helped her straighten her crooked lab coat.
His fingertips brushed her slender neck inadvertently, causing Gwen to subtly retract her neck.
"Alright, Classmate Gwen."
Peter cleared his throat, reining in his earlier wildness, pushed up his glasses, and put on a serious Dr. demeanor.
"Break time is over. That was 'physical education.' Now, the real biology internship officially begins."
Gwen looked up.
Seeing Peter's serious expression, she couldn't help but let out a giggle.
Her initial fatigue also dissipated considerably.
"Yes, Professor Parker."
She sat up straight, still a bit weak, but the thirst for knowledge in her eyes had rekindled.
"What do you plan to teach me? If it's just basic theories from textbooks, I won't buy it."
Peter's lips curled into a confident smile.
"Don't worry, what I'm going to teach you is cutting-edge technology that those old scholars outside rack their brains over and still can't figure out."
Currently, Peter's skill bar was incredibly luxurious.
"Genetic Engineering," "Biochemistry," "Mechanical Dynamics," "Physics"...
A dazzling array of skills.
It couldn't be said that he was top-tier in all fields, but he was definitely widely knowledgeable and learned.
Especially bio-genetics. This was his most proficient field.
Peter had absolute confidence.
No matter what profound questions Gwen posed, he could provide her with the most cutting-edge guidance.
Chapter 4: Gwen's Suit
"Mentor Peter, I've always wanted to ask you a question." Gwen's eyes became serious, carrying a hint of longing.
"I'll tell you everything I know."
Peter pulled over a chair and sat opposite her.
"How exactly did you become Spider-Man? From a biological perspective, what is the principle behind it?"
Gwen's gaze fell upon Peter's palms.
Those hands were long and fair, seemingly ordinary, yet they contained the terrifying strength to lift a truck.
Ever since she had personally felt Peter's powerful physique, Gwen deeply understood the gap between them.
During their daily combat.
She was always suppressed in every way, completely powerless to fight back.
This experience, while making Gwen feel shy and sweet, also ignited a competitive spirit.
She longed to become stronger herself.
Especially knowing that Peter wasn't a natural-born Mutant, but like her, was originally just an ordinary person.
Only later, due to an accident, did he mutate into a superhuman.
A seed was planted in Gwen's heart, hoping that one day she could "turn the tables and become the Master."
She also wanted to grow stronger, hoping to take the lead in the future.
Peter looked into Gwen's eyes, which flickered with ambition, and understood clearly.
He held almost nothing back from Gwen.
In Peter's view, as long as his greatest secrets—his transmigrator soul and the system—weren't exposed.
Everything else.
Including the source of Spider-Man's abilities, wasn't that important.
After all.
With the system's help, his current overall combat power was already far superior to the Spider-Man in the comics.
Peter had absolute confidence.
Even if Gwen successfully transformed and gained the power of Spider-Woman.
Sorry.
She would still be firmly pinned down by him.
Without hesitation, Peter turned and walked toward the biological culture cabinet in the corner of the lab.
After a series of iris scans and password entries, Peter took out a specially made transparent cylindrical container.
"The answer is right here."
He gently placed the container on the lab bench.
In the center of the container, a colorful spider sat quietly on its web.
Its back had strange and fascinating red and blue stripes, looking both dangerous and beautiful, like a hazardous work of art.
"My God..."
Gwen leaned in closer, "Is this the kind of spider that bit you?"
"Exactly. To be precise, this is a Super Spider cultivated by Osborn Industries."
Peter's voice was calm.
"The venom inside it has been bombarded by radioactive isotopes, carrying a special Retrovirus."
"This virus can rewrite human DNA, perfectly grafting a spider's strength, agility, reaction speed, and even climbing abilities onto a human."
Gwen looked at the tiny arthropod and felt a shudder originating from her soul.
"So..."
She swallowed hard.
"As long as one gets bitten, they can become a Supermanlike you? Doesn't that mean with enough spiders, you could mass-produce a super army?"
"In theory, yes, but reality is cruel."
Peter shook his head, his finger lightly tapping the glass wall of the container; the spider alertly raised its front legs.
"Gene fusion is a gamble. Everyone's genome is a unique code, and this spider is not a skeleton key."
"For the vast majority of people, this virus won't grant them superpowers; instead, it will lead to genetic collapse."
Peter looked at Gwen, his tone becoming serious.
"Without precise genetic adjustment, there's a high probability that the person bitten will undergo an irreversible malignant mutation."
"Turning into a Spider monster with six arms, regressed intelligence, and knowing nothing but slaughter."
Hearing the words "Spider monster," Gwen's face turned a bit pale.
"I definitely don't want to become like that."
She murmured, a horrific image of herself turning into a multi-legged monster surfacing in her mind; that would be worse than death.
Seeing her looking like a frightened little rabbit.
Peter couldn't help but reach out and dotingly rub Gwen's blonde hair.
"Don't worry, silly. With me here, how could I let you face that kind of risk?"
Peter's eyes grew deep, as if they held a sea of stars.
"If you truly want this power, I will personally formulate the most perfect serum for you, eliminating all side effects."
"Really?"
Gwen's eyes lit up, her previous fear instantly replaced by anticipation.
"Of course. Actually..."
Peter paused, a hint of a mysterious, mischievous grin appearing on his face.
"I haven't just thought about the serum; I've even designed your suit."
"A suit?"
Gwen looked at him suspiciously, "You mean a bodysuit like yours? In red and blue?"
"No, no, no. Your style is different from mine."
Peter turned and operated the Holographic projection table a few times.
Amidst the shifting light and shadows, a virtual human model appeared in the air.
The model's physique was identical to Gwen's, and covering it was a perfectly fitting bodysuit.
A black skin-tight base layer outlined the graceful curves of a woman, while white armor plates, like an exoskeleton, protected the chest and arms.
It was also accented with vibrant magenta and featured a hood design.
"Ghost-Spider."
Peter softly uttered the name, "This is the code name I've envisioned for you. How is it? Do you like it?"
Gwen stared blankly at the holographic projection.
As a girl, she was picky about the aesthetics of clothing, but this suit... it perfectly hit her aesthetic sweet spot.
It wasn't as flamboyant as Peter's, yet it had a unique sense of cool and sleekness.
"This outfit..."
Gwen bit her lip, her cheeks flushing again, this time from shyness.
"Isn't it a bit too tight?"
She turned her head and gave Peter a half-smiling glare, complaining playfully.
"Be honest, Peter Parker. Have you been wanting to see me in this for a long time? Is this some kind of kink of yours?"
"*Cough, cough...*"
Peter, his thoughts exposed, gave a dry cough but had no intention of hiding it; instead, he admitted it quite openly.
"Of course. Imagine the two of us in our suits, swinging on Web fluid side-by-side between skyscrapers. Don't you think we'd look perfect together?"
As Gwen listened to Peter's description, images involuntarily surfaced in her mind:
New York under the moonlight, amidst a jungle of steel.
Two figures, one red and one white, leaping, spinning, and diving between high-rises.
The wind whistling in her ears, the entire city beneath her feet—that kind of freedom, that romance, and that feeling of soul-level connection...
Her heart raced uncontrollably.
"It sounds... actually quite romantic."
Gwen muttered softly, her gaze falling back onto the suit, her eyes sparkling with an eager light.
Peter keenly caught the change in her expression and immediately struck while the iron was hot, leaning in to whisper in her ear:
"Actually, I've already made a prototype of this suit; it's right there in that cabinet. If you want to try it on now, I can help you dress..."
"Stop!"
Gwen suddenly pushed away the increasingly close Peter, her face flushed and her eyes panicked yet filled with a smile.
"It's internship time! Professor Parker, you promised to teach me biology. As for the dress-up game, let's talk about it later."
Though she said "later," she didn't directly refuse.
Peter smiled with satisfaction, knowing that the matter was basically settled.
"Alright, since Student Gwen is so eager to learn, let's continue with the lesson."
Chapter 5: My Good Brother is My Financial Backer
For the next two hours...
Peter put away his playful grin and truly stepped into the role of a mentor, revealing his side as a genius.
He broke down the complex cross-species genetic mapping into basic units, using simple and clear language to explain the art of genetic programming to Gwen.
From the recombination of base pairs to the directed induction of reverse transcriptase, every point of knowledge was explained with absolute clarity.
Peter's explanation...
Was far more brilliant and profound than any Professor in a university classroom.
Many academic problems that had troubled Gwen for a long time were clarified by Peter in just a few words.
He could even draw inferences from one instance to another, leading to even more cutting-edge theories.
Gwen was no longer just a shy girlfriend.
She listened with rapt attention, occasionally taking notes diligently and asking her own questions, fully immersed in the sea of knowledge.
Looking at her boyfriend, who was talking eloquently and shining with the light of wisdom...
The admiration and love in Gwen's heart grew even stronger.
She realized...
That the person she had fallen in love with was not just Spider-Man with extraordinary power, but also a genius with world-shaking wisdom.
One taught earnestly while the other studied with focus.
This intellectual resonance added a layer of spiritual compatibility to their bond, beyond just the physical and emotional.
Time flew by during their focused study, and before they knew it, noon had arrived.
When the clock struck twelve-thirty...
Both of their stomachs protested almost simultaneously.
"Alright, let's stop the lesson here for now," Peter said, stretching his back.
"After all that teaching, let's go eat first. A man can't live on air alone, and the cafeteria at Osborn Industries is Michelin-level."
"You're right!" Gwen nodded.
The two walked out of the laboratory side by side.
Osborn's executive cafeteria was located on the 40th floor of the tower, offering a superb view overlooking Manhattan.
Soon...
The trays were filled with exquisite delicacies.
From steaks flown in from Australia to the freshest organic vegetable salads, everything was available.
"How does it taste?"
Peter cut a piece of tender, juicy steak and placed it on Gwen's plate.
"It's great."
Gwen forked the steak into her mouth, narrowing her eyes in satisfaction.
"It's a hundred times better than the school cafeteria, even better than high-end restaurants outside. But..."
She paused and looked at Peter with a smile.
"Compared to this, I still miss Aunt May's cooking more; it has the taste of home."
"Great minds think alike."
Peter winked, "When we go back tonight, I'll have May make her special blueberry pie for you."
Lunch ended in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
Gwen wiped the corner of her mouth, checked her watch, and said somewhat reluctantly...
"Peter, I want to go back to the lab now to digest the gene fusion concepts you just explained. There are still a few parts I haven't quite figured out."
As expected of a top student, she was still thinking about studying even now.
Although Peter wanted to be with Gwen every moment, he also had his own things to attend to and needed a bit of time.
"No problem, I've already activated your lab permissions."
Peter stood up and pulled out her chair for her.
"Go ahead and get busy. I need to head to the top floor to see that rich young master."
"Harry?" Gwen asked.
"Yeah, Harry Osborn. He's my good brother and my financial backer. Since I'm here, I have to say hello."
...
The elevator climbed steadily upward.
The floor numbers kept ticking up, and with a 'ding,' the elevator doors slid open to both sides, and Peter stepped out.
This was the power center of Osborn Tower, and the air itself seemed to permeate with the scent of money.
Unlike the busy, tech-filled laboratories downstairs...
This floor was exceptionally quiet and luxurious.
Expensive abstract paintings hung on both sides of the corridor, and every wall lamp was meticulously designed to cast a soft yet majestic light.
Peter walked familiarly to a carved grand door.
This was the Chairman's office, and the location of the helmsman currently controlling this massive commercial vessel.
He politely raised his hand and knocked his knuckles lightly against the door.
"Come in."
A young but deliberately lowered voice, attempting to sound steady, came from inside.
Peter pushed the door open and entered.
What met his eyes was an excessively spacious office.
Huge floor-to-ceiling windows occupied an entire wall, offering a panoramic view of Manhattan's bustling skyline, with sunlight pouring in unobstructed.
Behind the desk...
Harry Osborn was buried under a pile of documents.
Hearing the door open, he looked up to reveal a handsome but slightly weary face.
The current Harry had long since shed his student greenness.
He wore a dark grey Italian bespoke suit, his tie was tied impeccably, and his hair was combed back into a sharp style.
To his left and right behind him...
Two tall, elegantly made-up female secretaries were quietly organizing files.
Their presence wasn't just for work; they were an indispensable embellishment to this luxurious office.
Although Harry was still very young...
During this critical period when his father Norman had temporarily retreated to fully focus on the development of the 'Super Soldier Serum'...
He had to shoulder the family burden and become the acting helmsman of Osborn Industries.
Seeing that the visitor was Peter...
Harry's originally tense expression relaxed, and the sharpness in his eyes when facing business rivals vanished.
In its place was genuine joy.
"Peter!"
Harry pushed aside the documents in front of him, walked over with large strides, and gave Peter a solid hug.
"My god, you're finally willing to come out of your love nest? I thought you were going to stay with Gwen forever."
Peter patted his friend's back, then let go and looked him up and down.
"Looking good, Harry."
Peter smiled, his gaze sweeping over the two secretaries who were stealing glances, then looked at Harry's elite-style outfit.
"This suit suits you well. You look like a big shot appearing on the cover of a financial magazine."
"Oh, stop it, don't tease me."
Harry shook his head with a bitter smile and waved for the secretaries to leave first.
As the heavy door closed again, only the two of them remained in the office. Harry shed his disguise and slumped onto the sofa.
"As you can see, it's just glamorous on the surface," Harrysighed, pointing to the documents on the desk.
Speaking of this, his eyes became somewhat gloomy.
"Those old foxes on the Board of Directors are very sharp. They've caught wind of my father's poor health, and every one of them is starting to get restless."
"In this morning's meeting, several major shareholders openly questioned my decisions. In reality, they were just testing how much longer the Osborn Family can hold on."
Peter walked to the wine cabinet.
He poured himself a glass of ice water and one for Harryas well, then sat opposite him, swirling the glass with a relaxed expression.
"So, those old guys are bothering you?"
The corner of Peter's mouth curled into a playful arc as he said half-jokingly...
"If you feel you can't handle it, I can help you. You know, as your good brother, I'm happy to share your burdens. Do I need to teach them a little lesson?"
Harry was stunned for a moment.
Looking at Peter's half-smiling expression, he subconsciously thought of Peter's terrifying combat power.
"Hey, Peter, calm down."
Harry made an exaggerated defensive gesture and lowered his voice.
"Your so-called 'lesson' wouldn't be the kind I'm thinking of, would it? Hanging them from lampposts?"
"Even though they're annoying, if the board members suddenly dropped dead collectively, Osborn Industries' stock price would crash."
"What are you thinking? Am I that kind of violent maniac?"
Peter rolled his eyes, looking righteous as if saying 'I am a law-abiding citizen.'
"I am the righteous Spider-Man, New York's friendly neighbor. How could I do something so insane?"
"I just meant making them'sleep a little sounder,' or making it so they can't speak up during certain critical moments, no matter what."
Hearing this, Harry and Peter looked at each other, and then both couldn't help but laugh.