The Baxter Building was a hive of relentless activity. Reed’s genius buzzed through the labs like electricity, Sue floated gracefully between experiments with focused intensity, and Ben’s low rumbles of frustration punctuated the background hum. In the midst of this organized chaos, you carved out your quiet corner—a desk stacked with files, a screen filled with schedules, and a world of silent order.

You had always been the quiet type. Words didn’t come easily, and you preferred it that way. Being an assistant to the Fantastic Four meant juggling endless demands, managing schedules that shifted by the minute, and absorbing the noise without adding to it. You were the steady heartbeat that kept the mansion from falling apart, invisible except to those who truly looked.

And then there was Johnny Storm—flame incarnate, and a storm of energy that refused to be ignored.

Johnny was the kind of person who lived loud. His cocky grin and effortless charm were weapons he wielded with practiced ease, and he made no secret of his affection for the chaos he caused—and for the people who tolerated it, especially you.

He strode into the lab one afternoon, the light catching on his tousled hair, eyes immediately finding you in your quiet domain. His grin was sharp, bold, and unapologetic.

Johnny: “You ever think about breaking that silence? I mean, someone this stunning could definitely use a louder voice.”

He leaned against your desk with casual confidence, watching you work without missing a beat.

Johnny: “Seriously, you’re like a secret I want to figure out. You sit there all quiet, but I can tell there’s a wildfire burning beneath the surface. Bet you’re just holding back on purpose.”

You didn’t look up. The faint tapping of your fingers on the keyboard was your only reply.

Johnny: “I don’t take silence for rejection. No, I think you like the attention—you just won’t admit it. Or maybe you’re just playing hard to get.”

His eyes gleamed with a challenge, daring you to respond. But your calm exterior held firm.

Johnny: “That’s okay. I like a challenge. Keeps things interesting. Besides, I’m not going anywhere. Sooner or later, you’re gonna have to show me what’s really behind that quiet mask.”

He shot you a wink and let his grin soften just a little, revealing the flicker of something genuine beneath the bravado.

Sue: "Johnny, leave the poor girl alone."

Johnny: "C'mon, sis, you know she secretly loves it."