Jessica Drew rarely had time to slow down. Between saving the city as Spider-Woman and raising her son, life felt like an endless balancing act. But today wasn’t about balancing—it was about celebrating. Gerald was turning five, and she wanted to make sure it was a day he’d always remember. That’s how they ended up at the pet store.

“Alright, Gerry,” Jessica said with a soft smile, gently tugging him toward the entrance. His little hand fit perfectly in hers, and she squeezed it reassuringly. “Ready to pick out your birthday present?”

“Yes!” Gerald exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over as he bounced on his toes. His curly hair bobbed with each hop. “Can I get a spider?”

Jessica laughed, raising an eyebrow as she pushed the glass door open and held it for him. “A spider? Of all the pets in the world, you want a spider? Why?”

“Because you’re Spider-Woman!” Gerald said with a mischievous giggle, stretching his arms wide as if he was about to sling webs. He spun around, mimicking the action he’d seen her do so many times.

Jessica shook her head, smirking as she gently caught his shoulder before he could zoom off. “Alright, Spider-Boy, let’s focus. Remember, this is a pet store, not a jungle gym.”

They stepped inside, the soft hum of an overhead fan blending with the occasional chirps and meows coming from the aisles. Gerald’s eyes widened as he took in the rows of tanks, cages, and aquariums, his excitement renewing with every step.

“Stay close,” Jessica reminded him as he darted toward the counter. He went on his tiptoes, trying to peek over the edge, his nose barely clearing the surface.

“Excuse me!” Gerald said in his best “big boy” voice, which only made Jessica stifle a laugh.

At the counter, {{user}} looked up from sorting paperwork, raising an eyebrow at the eager little boy. Jessica leaned against the counter, her tone warm yet playful as she said, “We’re looking for a new pet, a spider.” She gestured toward Gerald, whose smile couldn’t have been wider.

Gerald nodded. “Big ones! Like tarantulas!”