So, that was the news. After the teacher introduced her and gave her permission, Gwen took her seat near the center of the middle row.
Naturally, everyone started whispering about the new girl, and some of the guys even cracked inappropriate jokes. But that wasn't what troubled me; it was the list. What kind of list, you might ask?
The roll call — the list of students selected for the upcoming excursion. And honestly, I didn't like seeing certain names on it.
Namely: Cindy Moon, Miles Morales, and now, apparently, Gwen Stacy. Something about that equation didn't sit right with me. A few points stood out. First, I was definitely not in the canon comic book world I was familiar with, and that realization already dampened my mood.
Second, what did those three names have in common? Exactly — all three of them, or at least their alternate versions, possessed spider-powers, just like yours truly. That was where one of the main differences between me and Peter Parker became clear. I was possessive about my powers. No copycats, no shared spotlight.
Let me explain. I had nothing personal against Miles, Gwen, or Cindy. In fact, I enjoyed their stories from time to time — Morales's arc in the 2018 Spider-Man game was quite intriguing, and the guy himself was likable.
Still, I couldn't stand the trend of producing what felt like "knockoffs" of the hero I grew up admiring. Every new spider-hero always came with some shiny new ability or enhancement that made the original "friendly neighborhood" Spider-Man seem outdated. And yet, that same outdated model always returned and, with renewed determination, managed to prove his worth again and again.
The "canon" Parker might have welcomed these new faces and guided them like a patient mentor. I understood his choice, but I didn't share it. Maybe it wasn't the wisest attitude, but it was mine. So, if the spider didn't choose me on that excursion, then so be it. But if it did… then I'd make sure to take fate into my own hands.
Lost in those thoughts, I didn't even notice when the lesson ended. The time leading up to the excursion flew by — for most people, at least. I, however, decided to make full use of it. After Physics, I quickly approached Gwen, who was still getting used to her new surroundings, and offered to act as her personal guide. That's how we officially met. We chatted as I showed her around the school. Turns out she'd moved recently with her father — and, surprise surprise — he was an officer in the New York City Police Department.
Her mother had left long ago, remarried a banker, and started a new life elsewhere, abandoning both her ex-husband and daughter. The situation had really shaken Mr. Stacy, leaving behind a quiet sadness that Gwen tried to hide. I wasn't sure who cared more for the other — the father for his daughter, or the daughter for her father. Life can change so sharply sometimes, pushing people to reveal who they truly are.
A new city, separated parents, a new school — it all carried its share of anxiety. And when you're a teenager, that kind of uncertainty weighs even heavier. Maybe that's why she opened up to me so easily. Or maybe I just have a disarming face.Later, at lunch, Miles and I ended up at the same table. He wasn't expecting company but looked genuinely happy about it.
"By the way, Miles, you haven't met Gwen yet, have you? She's new," I said, turning toward him.
"Yeah, to be honest, I don't really know you either, Peter. But it's nice to meet you, Gwen," Miles replied.
"Well, we'll fix that soon enough — if you don't mind my"—I hesitated briefly, glancing toward Gwen—"our company."
"As you can see," Miles said with an embarrassed chuckle, "I don't have too many friends, so I'd be happy to make new ones."
"Then," I raised my carton of apple juice, "to new friends!" Miles smiled, Gwen gave a soft laugh, and the three of us clinked our cartons lightly before drinking.
Sometime later, I found myself sitting by the window, watching the world pass by. Gwen, seated beside me, and Miles, across from me, were focused on some discussion about physics — something to do with quanta.
"Pete, what do you think?" Gwen turned toward me suddenly.
"Oh, I agree with you about the charged alpha particles," I said thoughtfully. "Sorry, Miles, but the gamma radiation approach is a dead end for this theory. It's better to explore cosmic radiation."
"Pfft," Miles smirked. "You're only saying that because Reed Richards's space expedition turned out well and gave him and his crew superpowers. See? The wheel keeps turning."
"Perhaps," I replied with a knowing grin.
"So, a trip to the corporate headquarters of the very company researching gamma radiation doesn't interest you at all?" Gwen teased.
"I didn't say that," I countered calmly. "I only pointed out that gamma radiation doesn't seem viable as a safe alternative energy source for everyday use."
"Okay, everyone, calm down — we've arrived," the teacher announced. A towering building came into view, sleek and glassy, with a massive Oscorp logo glimmering at the top — so high it was hard to make out clearly, especially with my eyesight.
Truly, the mark of an evil corporation. We lined up and passed through security in a single line before being met by a cheerful guide.
"Hello, dear students! Welcome to the Oscorp Laboratories, where new discoveries are made every day — discoveries that advance not only science but humanity itself! Who knows, perhaps one of you will work with us in the future. Now, let's begin our tour.
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Short chapter I know but don't worry, I'm working on bringing more chapters to you all.
Now I need your support in the form of power stones guys.