A Vigilantes Story

Superpower Suspicion

Regan Barnes

"Where is he? He should've been here already," Hope said, her frustration evident in her voice.

Scarlett, Hope, and I were already seated at our usual table, an unofficially designated spot near the tall windows that let in the midday sunlight. It was a table for six, but our unspoken rule was to keep it exclusive—no extra company. We patiently waited, trays filled with delicious meals untouched, as our collective hunger grew with each passing moment.

Now, let me describe our choices. Hope had opted for the classic fish and chips, a crispy delight, accompanied by a cold cola. Scarlett and I mirrored Hope's choice, indulging in the familiar flavors of deep-fried fish and golden potato wedges. As for me, I had a personal weakness for chicken wings, and I couldn't resist ordering them, along with an ice-cold cola to wash it all down.

"I really don't know. I just hope it doesn't take any longer," Scarlett said, her eyes scanning the cafeteria.

"Well, he better hurry, or I'll hunt him down," Hope muttered, her impatience growing.

"Please don't. We still need to find out why he got sent to the principal's office," I interjected, trying to keep the situation in perspective.

And then, just as if the universe was responding to our concerns, I spotted him at the entrance. Max was heading our way, accompanied by an unfamiliar figure. The newcomer was a robust, blonde-haired boy, towering over Max. What struck me as particularly intriguing was the faint aura that seemed to envelop the new student. It was subtle but undeniably present—a sign of something unusual.

"Who's that boy he's with?" Scarlett inquired, sharing my curiosity.

"I don't know, but I'm just glad Max has his food. I'm starving!" Hope exclaimed.

Scarlett and I exchanged knowing glances, a silent acknowledgment of our shared appetite. Our collective laughter filled the air as Max and the new student approached our table.

"About time! What took you so long?" Hope asked Max, seemingly oblivious to the boy standing beside him. Max rolled his eyes, accustomed to his sister's impatience.

"Hope, meet Newt. He's new to the school, hailing from Spain. Newt, this is my obnoxious sister, Hope," Max introduced them with a casual wave. Hope, true to form, stuck out her tongue.

"The girl beside Hope is Scarlett, and I'm Regan, the one on the other side," I added, extending a welcoming hand.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all," Newt greeted us with genuine warmth.

"Pleasure's all ours. Now, sit down, so we can finally dig into our food," I suggested, eager to end our lunchtime waiting game.

Max and Newt joined us at the table, and we began savoring our meals. Max indulged in pasta carbonara with apple juice, a comfortingly familiar choice. Meanwhile, Newt opted for a simple sandwich and a bottle of water. Yet, something about Newt seemed to be hiding beneath the surface.

As we immersed ourselves in our lunch, I couldn't help but notice Max's discomfort. He seemed apprehensive, continually scanning the surroundings, perhaps anticipating an unwelcome encounter. Our table had a history of being targeted, primarily due to Max's presence.

Then, it happened—Angela, a notorious bully at our school, approached us, casting a shadow of dread. Her relentless bullying had tormented Max for far too long. Our table braced ourselves for another round of insults, but to our astonishment, someone unexpected stood up.