"Charles, you know how it is with kids these days," Alex lamented, his voice tinged with concern as he leaned back in his chair, the weight of responsibility evident in his weary posture. "They're at that delicate age when their latent abilities begin to awaken, and without proper guidance, those powers can easily veer off course."
With a heavy sigh, he continued, "Unfortunately, it seems we were a step too late in intervening. This troublemaker has already defied disciplinary measures and even attempted to involve poor Kitty."
His expression grim, Alex knew that if this unruly student fell under Charles's mentorship, he would receive a stern and much-needed lesson. "But for now, our focus must be on Kitty."
Charles nodded solemnly, his features etched with concern. "Indeed. Such behavior cannot be tolerated among the students I've taken under my wing."
Shifting the conversation to Kitty, Charles leaned forward attentively. "How are things progressing with her?" he inquired, his tone gentle yet inquisitive.
"It's been a challenge," Alex admitted, rubbing his temples wearily. "Kitty is struggling to come to terms with the sudden awakening of her extraordinary abilities. She feels overwhelmed by the lack of control, and the dormant state of her powers only adds to her frustration and anxiety. But I've assured her that I'll be there to help her navigate this journey."
With a weary smile, Alex gestured to his phone, a familiar piece of technology in his hand. "She'll reach out when she's ready. These days, communication is just a tap away."
Charles returned the smile, his expression warm and encouraging. "It sounds like you're making progress," he added with a soft chuckle.
....
In the bustling afternoon, when the school day had drawn to a close, Kitty emerged from the gate, her petite frame adorned with the statue Alex had bestowed upon her. Though diminutive in size, the statue exuded a lifelike quality, capturing every delicate contour and subtle expression with astonishing detail.
Nestled beneath the statue's dainty feet lay a small business card, its surface embossed with Alex's contact information. Kitty's gaze lingered on the card, her fingertips tracing its edges tentatively before she summoned the courage to dial the number imprinted upon it, the same number that had graced her phone earlier that day.
After the call, she stood by the gate, a whirlwind of emotions churning within her, her heart pounding with anticipation as she awaited Alex's arrival, her eyes scanning the bustling scene for any sign of his approach.
"Well, well, well, look who it is!" chimed a voice behind her, its tone dripping with sarcasm and thinly veiled mockery. It was the blonde girl from her class, her haughty demeanor unmistakable as she plucked the statue from Kitty's grasp with a mischievous glint in her eye.
"It really does resemble you. Wonder who gave it to you? A secret admirer, perhaps?" taunted another girl, her brown locks framing her face as she held the coveted statue aloft, a smirk playing at the corners of her lips.
"Hey, give that back!" Kitty protested, her voice tinged with desperation as she reached out futilely, her fingers grazing the air as the statue remained just beyond her grasp.
The pair exchanged amused glances, reveling in Kitty's distress as they shared a mocking laugh, the echoes of their cruelty reverberating through the air.
This unfortunate scene unfolded amidst the bustling campus, where the shadows of bullying loomed large, casting a pall over the once vibrant atmosphere.
Individuals from diverse backgrounds—regardless of race, physique, or unconventional brilliance—often find themselves targeted by bullying. Even the future Spider-Man, in his pre-transformation days, faced the same torment.
"Hey, Kitty, what's going on?" Alex approached the campus gate with Charles, witnessing the distressing scenario unfold, and they couldn't simply stand by.
"They took the gift you gave me," Kitty explained, pointing to the statue now in the bullies' hands, her voice filled with distress.
"You guys are truly despicable." Alex gestured, and the metal statue held by the brown-haired girl detached itself and flew into Alex's hands. He then promptly returned it to Kitty.
"The transfer procedures are done. You'll be heading to New York tomorrow for your studies, for sure! Your parents will be joining you; you won't be alone. I'll teach you how to control your ability. Put in the effort," Alex assured Kitty, patting her on the shoulder. After some encouraging words, he strolled over to Charles.
"Okay, I will," Kitty waved back at Alex.
Alex smiled and waved in return. Charles, standing aside, teased, "Ah, another unsuspecting girl caught in the web?"
"Charles, Fuck you."
(End of this chapter)
....
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