OUT OF THIS WORLD [2] ✓ (AVENGERS FF)

10. Late Night Talk

LATE NIGHT TALK

As I stand near the tower, I pace back and forth as I try to figure out what to do, my fingers hovering over the cracked screen before dialing his number.

The battle should be over by now, the sirens and chaos around the city settling down as if nothing happened in the first place.

With a shaky, deep breath, I run my hand through my hair as I anxiously wait for him to pick up.

After ringing a few times, he finally picks up, faint city sounds in the background as he talks, relief flooding through me when I hear his voice.

"Hello?"

"Pete?" I say in a small voice, trying to find a safe place to sit, feeling like I could collapse at any moment.

"Nessa? Where are you? Are you okay?" He asks, his voice agitated as he talks.

"I-I'm okay." I say in an attempt to reassure him but my voice cracks at the end, making me let out a long breath as I press the bridge of my nose. "I'm near the tower."

"Okay. Good." Peter says. "I'm making my way over there now."

"Umm...Pete..." the adrenaline makes it hard to think, but I somehow manage to gather my thoughts. "Is it okay if I spend the night at your place?"

"Yes, of course." Peter says without hesitation, then he pauses. "I'll be home in a bit. Will you be okay by yourself?"

"I think so." I say. "Thanks Pete."

After ending the call, my hands shake as I put my phone away, the anxiety finally creeping in as the adrenaline rush fades.

How many people saw the battle? What should I do? I can't go back to the tower. Not like this.

Before making my way to his place, I briefly check the internet for any news of the event. Fortunately nothing is out yet, that gives me more time to think.

For now, I should start heading to Aunt May's place before it's too late. Plugging my headphones in, I try to calm myself, losing myself to the calming best as I observe the people roaming the busy streets of New York, almost as if nothing happened. They're probably used to it by now. I don't know if that's a good thing though.

Without realizing it, I find myself in front of Aunt May's door, my hand instinctively moving on its own making a fist to knock.

It doesn't take long for Aunt May to open the door with a smile.

"Vanessa, what a lovely surprise. It's good to see you. Come on in." She says.