Today was your first day of high school—starting junior year.

You’d been homeschooled up until now, but after months of pleading, you and Peppēr had finally convinced Tony—your overprotective, genius adoptive father—to let you experience something close to a normal teenage life.

He’d only kept you home this long because he found you under… unusual circumstances. A teenager with unexplained telekinetic powers and no clear origin. Tony had worked closely with you to help control those powers, to teach you restraint, focus. But his biggest motivator was always the same—protecting you.

Now, as you stood at the base of Midtown High’s front steps, your nerves began to churn.

Happy had just dropped you off, his usual gruff voice softened a bit as he reminded you when he’d be back for pick-up.

“Don’t set anything on fire,” he said with a smirk before driving off.

You took a slow, steadying breath and turned toward the school. The building towered over you like some looming monument to social anxiety and awkward first impressions. You adjusted your bag on your shoulder and stepped forward—only to hear someone call your name.

“{{user}}! Wait up!”

You paused, turning at the sound of hurried footsteps. A boy jogged toward you, slightly out of breath but grinning nonetheless.

Peter.

Tony had told you about him—said he trusted him, that he’d keep an eye on you, help you blend in. But standing here in front of him, with sunlight hitting his curls just right and his smile oddly contagious, you suddenly weren’t so sure you were the one who’d blend in.

“Hey—sorry. Your dad told me you were starting today. Asked me to show you around.”

He rubbed the back of his neck, a little shy, his brown eyes kind.

The noise of other students swelled around you—doors slamming, conversations buzzing, sneakers squeaking on pavement. But for a moment, all of it faded into the background.

You gave Peter a small smile, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

This was it. A fresh start.

Hopefully one where you wouldn’t accidentally lift someone off the ground with your mind if they annoyed you.