𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐑𝐄𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 (EDITING)

𝟑𝟕

emerson

We rolled up to the restaurant, and it was like a Marvel universe convention exploded inside. I'm talking the whole Guardians of the Galaxy crew, the Ms. Marvel gang – you name it, they were there. I couldn't help but marvel (no pun intended) at how Robert managed to pull together this colossal gathering. There were over fifty people, and it hit me – of course, it's RDJ; he's the maestro of going big or going home. The man rented out an entire restaurant for us, and I was still wrapping my head around it. The place? 'Celestial Bistro.' I had zero clue about this spot until today.

The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and laughter as Marvel actors mingled and chatted. Robert had outdone himself, as always.

"Truth be told, it's pretty darn obvious," Avery said, locking eyes with me and casually running her tongue over her bottom lip. Why did everything she did have to be so irresistibly attractive? Her light wavy hair was elegantly flipped to the side, the glint of her pearl earrings catching the light. In black trousers, a chic shirt top, and a matching blazer, she looked nothing short of breathtaking.

I found myself lost in admiration until a voice interrupted my daze, "Are you okay?" I snapped back to reality, realizing I'd been caught in the act. "I'm good," I mumbled, readjusting in my chair as we waited for the rest of the crew to arrive.

Avery leaned in "You seem a bit distracted tonight... Everything alright?"

I turned to Avery, attempting to find the right words, but I found myself stumbling over my thoughts. Avery, with a raised eyebrow and a light smirk, knew exactly what she was doing. She has this undeniable allure, and tonight, it seemed to be on another level.

Sighing, I bit down on my lip, attempting to keep my composure. Just as I stood up, Xochitl Gomez made her way toward me, with Elizabeth Olsen standing beside her. "Emerson, I want you to meet Xochitl," Lizzie introduced. Xochitl's smile and a faint blush greeted me. "Hi... sorry, you're even more beautiful in real life," she said. I returned the compliment, "Thank you, you're also beautiful."

After a brief exchange, Lizzie excused herself, leaving me and Xochitl to chat. As we continued our conversation, I couldn't help but glance at Avery, who was handling the situation with her usual grace. Eventually, I introduced Avery as my girlfriend, and Xochitl warmly embraced her.

"Oh em gee, you're so pretty. Hi," Xochitl greeted Avery with a smile. Avery, in her calm and collected demeanor, responded, "Thank you." Xochitl expressed her excitement. "I'm so happy you guys are now part of this Marvel clan," she said. I nodded in agreement, adding, "We're happy to be here."

Just then, I spotted someone in the distance. "Ever!" I called out, and the blue-eyed girl turned towards me. "Emerson! I was trying to find you," Ever said, laughing. "Well, I found you first," I replied. After hugs and greetings, Ever turned to Avery. "Oh, Emerson has told me about you, Avery, right?" Ever asked, and Avery nodded with a warm smile.

Ever gave Avery a friendly hug, and the four of us settled into an easygoing conversation. "So, Avery, what's it like being Emerson's girlfriend?" Ever teased with a playful grin, her blue eyes sparkling mischievously.

Avery chuckled, shooting me a glance before responding, "Well, it's an adventure. She's always keeping me on my toes." Ever laughed, "I can imagine. Emerson, you seem like trouble." I feigned innocence, placing a hand over my heart, "Me? Trouble? Never."

" are you causing trouble, Emerson?" Xochitl asked, joining the playful teasing. I grinned, "Apparently, that's my reputation. But don't believe everything you hear."