Classes

Peter walked into the classroom, and a few gazes turned his way as he had been absent for two consecutive days. Several minutes went by, during which neither he nor anyone else made an effort to start a conversation. Finally, Dr. Banner entered the class with a smile on his face.

Upon seeing Peter, Dr. Banner's smile slowly faded, replaced by a stern expression as he questioned his favorite student.

"Peter, where have you been? I am disappointed."

A wry smile crept onto Peter's face as he spoke up confidently.

"I apologize, Dr. Banner. I've been deeply engrossed in researching ways to solve cancer and finding legitimate solutions for it. Next time, I promise to put my research on hold and prioritize attending school."

The curly-haired middle-aged man, with white hair on the sideburns, gasped, taking a step back. His expression conveyed complete belief in Peter's explanation.

"I understand, Peter... I truly do. However, you mustn't miss school, especially this year—it's the most crucial one. Starting from next year, you'll be entering university."

Peter nodded in acknowledgment, absorbing Dr. Banner's words, and let out a soft sigh.

"Yes, sir. I'll try my best, I genuinely believe I am close to something. I was thinking of submitting an application to the principal to graduate early."

Dr. Banner raised his eyebrows and spoke, his tone carrying a hint of pride.

"That's a good idea. If you ever need my assistance, feel free to come to the staff room. Not to boast, but I hold seven PhDs. The only reason I am teaching here is because it's my brother's school. However, I will be leaving next year to resume teaching at Harvard. If you want I can write you a recommendation letter... on accord if you attend school regularly."

As Dr. Banner continued to banter, the remaining sounds in the class gradually faded into silence. All eyes were fixed on the conversation between Peter and their teacher. A singular thought echoed in everyone's mind:

'Isn't this favoritism going a bit too far?'

Midtown High was renowned for being a school attended by both the affluent and the exceptionally gifted. While many students had the means to secure their places in top universities through various means, obtaining a recommendation letter from Bruce was an unknown territory. After all, he wasn't one of the financially struggling professors or those who could be swayed through bribes.

A recommendation letter from someone like Bruce Banner, one of the most renowned scientists, carried a weight comparable to a Nobel Prize. It was highly sought after, and its rarity was a primary reason why students paid such close attention to the ongoing conversation. The prospect of receiving such a recommendation held the potential to shape their academic futures significantly.

As the students listened to the conversation, a range of emotions stirred within them—envy, jealousy, and perhaps even a tinge of schadenfreude. At that moment, they longed for Ned's presence, regretting his expulsion. It had always been somewhat entertaining for them to witness Peter Parker being subjected to bullying.

Humans often find perverse enjoyment in witnessing those who shine brightly stumble and fall, bringing them closer to their own level.

Bruce Banner, seemingly aware that a considerable amount of time had elapsed, gestured towards Peter and made his way to the blackboard, sporting a warm smile.

"Open your textbooks to page number 378. We shall continue from where we left yesterday. End of the chapter, exam style question 17."

~

After Bruce Banner concluded his lecture, a boy from another class burst into the room and loudly inquired, "Is Peter Parker here?"

Several students gestured towards Peter's desk where he was peacefully asleep. The boy approached Peter, gently tapping his shoulder to wake him up.

Peter emerged from his nap, wearing a slightly groggy expression, as he glanced at the blonde-haired boy standing in front of him. Rubbing his eyes and letting out a small yawn, Peter spoke.

"Flash... what can I do for you?"

The blonde-haired teen pulled a chair and sat on it backward, his gaze fixed on Peter as he spoke with sincerity.

"I want you to tutor me. I'll pay you double the amount from last time, $400."

Peter's lips twitched, and he gestured for the boy to leave as he responded firmly.

"I'm sorry, but I am busy nowadays."

Flash frowned at Peter's response. He waved a wad of money in front of the teenager, noticing that Peter was not wearing his usual glasses.

"500 dollars," Flash offered, trying to entice him further.

Peter raised an eyebrow, a slight smirk forming on his lips as he responded firmly.

"No."

Flash was clearly taken aback by Peter's refusal. He tried to reason with him, highlighting the potential financial benefit.

"Aren't you in dire need of money? $500 is a considerable amount for tutoring a classmate."

Peter leaned in closer to Flash, his voice lowered as he whispered into his ear.

"Don't tell anyone, but it's a secret... I'm actually a mafia boss with the entire world as my bank account."

Flash's expression shifted to annoyance as he stood up, his tone becoming assertive.

"Take it or leave it, it's up to you. Don't fuck around with me. I can find better tutors anyway."

Peter rolled his eyes in response and gestured for the delinquent rich boy to leave. Although it may have sounded like a sarcastic remark, Peter couldn't help but think that he was indeed something akin to a mafia boss now.

"Sure. Bye bye~"

As Peter watched Flash leave, a sense of relief washed over him. It wasn't that he was incapable of helping Flash, but rather he didn't want to invest his time in such matters. His priorities lay elsewhere, particularly with Gwen.

'I'll gladly tutor Gwen. Cowboy style,'

At that very moment, the next teacher entered the classroom, captivating everyone's attention. She had flowing red hair that cascaded like a waterfall, styled into a fashionable wolf cut. Her outfit consisted of a formal top and a skirt that reached mid-thigh, accentuating her legs. To complete her ensemble, she wore black heels.

As Natasha entered the classroom, her gaze swept across the room, until her eyes eventually settled on Peter. A kind smile formed on her lips, and her eyes took on a crescent shape, almost as if she had found her target.

~

Main Plot of this volume is about to begin from next chapter onwards. Send stones.