Chapter 9 [Fifteen Minutes Later—Coffee Bean]

[A/N: And now, we meet the 'other couple' in the story.]

Activity buzzed about Empire State University and its surroundings on that afternoon. Earlier classes had let out for the afternoon. Students headed toward jobs, the library or home. Some, however, heeded Hunger's call. Those latter souls walked out the northeast gate and crossed the bustling intersection. There, a brick and wood squat building awaited them. A walk over the threshold and down a few stairs brought them into ESU's primary hangout place. Jukebox with its tunes sat against the east wall. Those students' feet danced away Friday and Saturday nights. Waitresses took their orders and rang up their bills. And, Walt, the business' lumbering owner labored over Grill's frying burgers. Age's frost whitened his thinning hair. Sweat glistened across his forehead.

Even as University ministered to minds and learning, Café cared for stomachs. Balance was achieved in such ways….

In the midst of the day's throng, Peter Parker walked his girlfriend toward the Coffee Bean. Latest issues pulled him into his own world. His Aunt May needed her latest medication. He remained behind in his studies. Professor Warren lectured him (again) about attendance. Overdue bills threatened the bank account. J. Jonah Jameson underpaid him for his pictures….

…and that wasn't counting a certain Wall Crawler's activities either…

A heavy sigh escaped his lips. He bowed his head. How am I supposed to keep everything together? I can't even afford to take Gwen on a decent date. A frown twisted at his mouth. She wants me to take assignments other than Spidey pics. She has no idea. Joy Mercado wanted someone to take pictures of the Hiroshi Kitana exhibit at the Met. Gwen wouldn't be interested though. Maybe I can get in there, snap a few pics and get out? I can use the paycheck.

"You frown, you drag yourself down, Mr. P." Gwen poked him on the arm. Her eyebrow quirked at him. "Don't let Professor Warren get to you. You're keeping up." His moods challenged her at times. Sudden disappearances and his freelancing concerned her. Unexplained bruises, slings and limps raised her ire. Still, Understanding and Patience granted her increasing access to his world. "Whatever it is, we'll make sure it's A-Okay!"

He nodded. Her mood picked him up. A smile managed to break through Depression's overcast. "I can always count on you. I just wish I could do more. I…."

Her eyes rolled. "I keep telling you, Peter. You don't have to buy my love. I'm fine cooking for our dates. I take care of my Dad and you, Lad. We have our walks and moments together. Just treat me right. You do." Her hand squeezed his. "Dad's great with you. Your Aunt likes me. Life's good!" She held her arms out wide. "We've got the place hopping. I'm sure you know what I want." She pushed her index finger into his chest. "And you're getting something else beside that milkshake."

"I'm getting a burger. You want the chili or a sandwich?" He motioned toward the counter.

"Mmm…chicken salad for me! Thanks! I'll get us a booth." Gwen wove her way through the traffic on the floor toward a waiting booth. "Chin up!" She watched him head for the counter. I wish Peter could relax! It's going to be okay! Really! Her eyes remained fixed on the corner. This is what we get during the rush. She settled into her seat. Maybe I could ask Peter about the new exhibit at the Met? Dad was talking about that Japanese sword. Who knows? Peter could get an assignment without getting hurt for a change. Her brow furrowed on that note. Wish Harry and Liz weren't still in class! She leaned back in her chair. Dad and I can eat the leftover corned beef from last night. I'll just fix a salad and another pot of mashed potatoes. Dad won't mind. He might even come with us! She saw Peter coming with two mugs. "Mmm! Such service! A gal might not know what to do!" Mischief widened her smirk and sparkled in her eyes.

"That's what we like." He relaxed. Frankly, Relief eased his mindset. He slid into the booth. "Coffees for both fixed to how we like it." He slid her mug toward her. "I hope you don't mind. There's a new exhibit at the Met. I might have a chance to get an assignment for the Bugle. It's some sword."

"The Hirochi Kitana?" Her eyes lit up. "I was just about to ask you about that! We're on that same vibe again!" She took a mouthful from her mug. "Dad was talking about it a couple of days ago! It's like two thousand years old! Some samurai had it. Anyhow, this is like the first time it's been in New York! Maybe we can go to the Bugle and ask?"

"I'll check in with them right after we eat. Maybe your Dad might come with us? That's something that's right up his alley. I know it's a date but…." He shrugged.

"Dad trusts you, Peter. He'd enjoy it. Besides, he and I would like to see you working on something other than Spider-Man for a change." Her eyebrow arched yet again to drive that particular point home.

Kind of hard, Kid. Peter saw a blonde skinny girl getting his attention. "Sandwiches are up! Be back!" Saved by the bell. I'm sure if I asked them *really nicely,* maybe Kraven the Hunter and the Green Goblin would punch softer? Sarcasm rolled his eyes on that note. He accepted the tray from her. "Thanks." He turned and headed back toward Gwen. "And here we go. Chicken salad, fries and the pickle for you. And burger for me. I'll take a break on the shake."

"Good plan for today, Mr. P. And the rhyme too no less?" She bit into her sandwich. "Mmm! I needed that. Thanks!"

Peter nodded. "Never say I don't know what the lady likes." He took a bite of meat and cheese.

"Silly! I know better." Gwen sampled a fry. Satisfaction was guaranteed. "We've got that day all right." She raised her mug in apparent toast. "That's going to make everything great!" She looked toward the door. "Speaking of my Dad, he's here." She slid out from her seat. "Hang on, Mr. P."

Peter turned his eyes toward Stacy and the visitors. He scratched his head. Who are they? Mr. Stacy doesn't come in here normally. What's going on? Spider Sense buzzed ever so slightly. And now the Spider Sense? They just seem like everyday teenagers. He gulped from his coffee and weighed the developing situation.

Mysteries brewed.….