Chapter 15: Ferrari speeding! Crisis on the streets! [Extra Chapter]

New York City was dazzling at night. The buildings blazed with light, seemingly without regard for electricity costs. Yet, on the roads, some streetlights flickered intermittently, a reflection of the disparity between corporate abundance and civic frugality.

Lorien's fiery red Ferrari roared down the streets, a testament to his… hard work. Wanda, seated in the passenger seat, gazed out the window, slightly lowering it to let the cool breeze caress her cheeks. She found herself reluctant to return to the Avengers base. Anywhere but there, she thought. She wanted to drive anywhere, just not home.

Lorien, ever perceptive, sensed Wanda's inner turmoil. It wasn't merely teenage rebellion; she was grappling with a deeper issue—her growing estrangement from the Avengers and the overwhelming pressure it brought. With Lorien, she enjoyed carefree chats, meals, and serene moments. At the base, she faced the brunt of online vitriol and the suffocating atmosphere of high-stakes missions.

Lorien considered her feelings, then suggested, "I remember there's a 190-meter-high Ferris wheel in New York that overlooks the entire city. It's also on the way. Do you want to go see it?"

In truth, it wasn't exactly on their route; a slight detour was required. But Wanda's eyes lit up at the idea. She turned to Lorien, her enthusiasm evident. "GO!" she exclaimed urgently.

Lorien grinned, shifted his grip to both hands on the steering wheel, and smoothly navigated onto the expressway. "Hold on tight," he advised, before pressing the accelerator.

The Ferrari's V12 engine roared to life, its deep growl akin to a lion's roar. The car surged forward with such force that the front lifted slightly from the sheer power. Both Lorien and Wanda were thrust back into their seats, experiencing the exhilarating sensation of rapid acceleration.

"Ohhh!" Wanda screamed, but her fear quickly gave way to excitement. She stole glances at Lorien's confident profile and then turned to watch the road, feeling the thrill of the ride. Lorien's expression was one of fierce confidence, a smile playing at the corners of his lips.

Minutes later, the Ferrari exited the highway, heading towards the Ferris wheel. Inside the car, Wanda's chest heaved with excitement. Despite the loose sweatshirt she wore, it was evident that her heart was pounding.

"That was incredible!" she exclaimed, catching her breath and looking at Lorien with sheer delight. "It feels so good!"

Lorien understood her unfiltered joy. In European and American culture, such directness was normal, especially when expressing feelings to someone you liked. He responded frankly, "That's why I drive this car. I wouldn't want to drive it without you in the passenger seat, Wanda."

Wanda was taken aback, her hand covering her lips in surprise. She smiled back, her eyes sparkling. "I believe you, Lorien. I noticed you didn't want to drive initially. You only decided to drive after seeing my predicament. I see that you're a good man."

In her world, being a "good man" was high praise, not a derogatory term. Lorien accepted her compliment with a satisfied nod. "You're right, Wanda. I, Lorien, accept your praise wholeheartedly."

Wanda burst into laughter at Lorien's playful confidence. As they approached the streets near the Ferris wheel, the Ferrari had to slow down, drawing the gaze of pedestrians. Wanda knew the car's windows were tinted to allow views only from the inside, so she leaned against the window to observe the street scenes outside.

Suddenly, screams filled the air. "Ahhhhh! Monsters! Lots of rats! Help me!" People on the street were in a panic.

Wanda turned to Lorien, who confirmed with a nod, "Something's happening."

Her instincts as an Avenger kicked in. She wanted to help, but uncertainty gripped her. Usually, she had teammates to rely on, but now she was alone. What if she made a mistake and caused more harm? The fear of failure and criticism loomed large.

Sensing her hesitation, Lorien took action. With one hand on the steering wheel, he drove towards the commotion. With his other hand, he gently held Wanda's, offering reassurance. "Don't worry. I'll go with you."

Wanda's eyes widened. "Lorien, you're just a regular person!" she protested, concerned for his safety.

"It's okay," Lorien said calmly. He parked the Ferrari on the side of the road, then stepped out, opening Wanda's door and extending his hand. "You need positive experiences to heal. Only positive influences can truly improve people's lives. I'm your psychologist, and it's my responsibility to help you overcome this. Trust me."

Wanda, touched by his resolve and support, took his hand. "I trust you," she replied, finding strength in his words and presence.

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[Next Extra Chapter in 600 power stones]

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