Aurum ✧ Peter Parker

✧ ˚ 21 · twenty-one .

┌─── · 。ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───┐

After Ava finished running through her routine with her coach and received some valuable tips on how to improve, she quickly gathered her belongings from the changing room. Pulling a pair of gym shorts over the bottom of her leotard, she stuffed her bag with her essentials. A sense of accomplishment filled her, and she couldn't help but smile as she created a new group message with Peter and Ned.

Sending a quick text and a selfie of herself with a thumbs-up, she added a caption, "Practice done! On my way to the academic decathlon meeting now. Can't wait to see you guys there!"

With a satisfied grin, Ava hit the send button and headed towards the meeting with excitement and a hint of nervousness.

As Ava walked into the academic decathlon meeting room wearing her gym outfit, Peter's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't help but feel a rush of nerves seeing her in her athletic attire. Her leotard hugged her form, and her gym shorts revealed a glimpse of her toned legs. He tried to discreetly avert his gaze, not wanting to stare, but his cheeks flushed with embarrassment nonetheless.

Liz, the team captain, was leading the meeting, and Mr. Harrington, one of the science teachers, was overseeing the proceedings. Peter fidgeted in his seat, trying to appear composed as the discussion continued. However, his mind kept wandering to Ava, who was effortlessly switching gears from her gymnastics practice to this academic gathering.

He admired how Ava seemed at ease, confidently engaging in the discussion. He felt a mixture of admiration and anxiety, not only because of his secret identity as Spider-Man but also because of his growing feelings for Ava. He couldn't help but wonder if she would ever see him as more than just a friend.

As the meeting progressed, Peter tried to focus on the team's strategies and contribute to the discussion, but his attention kept drifting back to Ava. He found himself stealing glances at her, hoping she wouldn't notice his nervousness. Liz's voice brought him back to reality, asking for his input on a particular topic.

"Oh, uh, sorry, could you repeat that?" Peter stammered, feeling a bit embarrassed for zoning out.

Liz raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "I was asking for your opinion on the last question, Peter. Is everything okay?"

Peter blushed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and nerves. "Yeah, sorry about that," he replied, trying to collect his thoughts. "I, uh, got a bit distracted. I think we should focus on the second part of the question. It's more specific, and I think we can find some solid evidence to support our answer."

Liz nodded, seemingly satisfied with his response, and the discussion continued. However, Peter's mind kept wandering back to Ava, who was engaged in the conversation, contributing her ideas with confidence and enthusiasm. He admired her intelligence and dedication, finding it both inspiring and intimidating.

As the meeting drew to a close, Liz reminded everyone of their upcoming practice schedule and urged them to study hard for the competition. The team members began to disperse, chatting and making plans for the days ahead.

Peter watched from a distance as Ava walked alongside Liz and Michelle, their laughter carrying through the air. He felt a twinge of envy, wishing he could join in and be a part of their group. But his nerves and self-doubt held him back, and he couldn't find the courage to approach them.

Before he could gather his thoughts and decide what to do, he noticed Ava getting into an expensive-looking, blacked-out car parked nearby. His heart sank as he realized he had missed his chance to talk to her. He berated himself for hesitating and letting his insecurities get the better of him.