Even that tiny twitch of a smile, that expression that was so typically MJ, made him breathe a quiet sigh of relief and break into a more genuine smile. This could work. It would be fine. She didn't have to know how conflicted he was or more importantly, why.
"Do you remember how they were talking about a trip to Europe? And then I guess we all Blipped out so obviously, no trip to Europe? Well...we got to take it the next summer. Which was cool. Till it went bad which is definitely all my fault so sorry, future you." And Peter hadn't even really been through the worst of it. What he had seen was bad enough, thanks.
"May would definitely prefer you cut back on any caffeine for me," he added teasingly. Making his way into the kitchen, he reached into the cupboard where he knew some basic Folgers blend was waiting. "I come by here sometimes with May to bother Happy. Well, her less on the bothering but you get it. And sometimes Dr. Banner teaches me some stuff. Oh, that's another thing, the schools here are kind of pathetic. And don't bother with college prep because it's not like there's MIT or Boston to get into here."
When Peter's fear gave way to anxiety, the words spilled out. And now he couldn't seem to make himself shut up.