CHAPTER 3: We Reminisce
The night draped itself over Happy's condo, casting a tranquil hush upon the surroundings. Within the stillness, the soft glow of the security monitor illuminated the living room, where Peter found himself sprawled on the couch, deeply engrossed in a FaceTime conversation with MJ. Their voices, a soothing symphony amid the chaos, filled the air.
"Did you send in your applications yet?" MJ inquired, her gaze fixed on the screen.
"I literally just finished my MIT one. You?" Peter responded, a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes.
Nodding in agreement, MJ remarked, "Same."
The prospect of both gaining admission to MIT and securing scholarships painted a canvas of hope in their conversation. Despite the uncertainties, the duo shared a lighthearted exchange, revealing the delightful dynamics of their relationship.
Peter, with a playful tone, insisted, "Come on, you've got the scores and the grades and-"
Interrupting, MJ questioned, "You think I'm being too pragmatic."
"No no no no no..." Peter reassured, his words carrying a warmth of affection. "Well, kinda. It's okay. That's one of my favorite things about you."
"Really?" MJ queried, curiosity dancing in her eyes.
"Yeah," Peter affirmed.
Their banter continued, with Peter expressing his admiration for MJ's qualities – her relentless optimism, love for people, and even her sports predictions became cherished facets of her character. The night, though fraught with uncertainty, became a canvas for the tender moments shared between them.
However, the serenity was interrupted by a low, persistent noise in the background. Wondering about the source, MJ sought an explanation.
"What's that noise?" she inquired, her eyes narrowing.
With a mischievous grin, Peter revealed, "Oh, it's Happy. Look. He gave his room to May so he's sleeping down here."
Shifting his phone, the screen unveiled Happy sprawled on the couch, adorned with a sleep apnea mask, and snoring loudly.
"I have a weird question," MJ began, her tone taking a contemplative turn. "Um... does any part of you feel relieved about all this?"
In response, Peter delved into introspection, reflecting on the rare week of normalcy he experienced when MJ discovered his Spider-Man identity. The fleeting perfection of that time stood in stark contrast to the overwhelming fame and financial struggles he now faced with the world's knowledge.
Their laughter echoed through the living room, a shared moment of understanding and connection amidst the tumult. The tranquility, however, was abruptly shattered by the entrance of Happy, clad in a sleep apnea mask.
"Wrap it up!" Happy demanded, his words slicing through the night.
Peter, startled, turned to face Happy, who, wearing the mask, appeared less than thrilled. MJ waved a greeting on the phone screen, and that was the end of it.
This was a short little chapter, hope you enjoyed nonetheless.