Chapter 7: Ethan Lee! Jessica's Trick!
But she couldn't say it.
Thinking of something that had been bothering her recently, Gwen said, "Jessica, you must have seen the reports about the Black Spider. Because of him, my dad doesn't like Ghost Spider very much anymore."
"What does that have to do with you?"
Jessica slung an arm around Gwen's shoulders, smirking. "Are you a fan of Ghost Spider or something?"
"Fan? …Uh, I guess."
Gwen replied hesitantly.
Admitting to being your own fan—it was just too embarrassing.
Jessica, however, had an idea.
If Gwen was a fan of Ghost Spider…
She quickly typed a message to her brother.
---
Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
A Luxurious High-End Studio
"Dr. Banner, coming to the studio from home isn't a long trip for me."
Ethan Lee sat calmly across from his visitor. "I usually only come here once or twice a week, so I hope you're not joking. Do you really want to learn painting from me?"
That's right—the man sitting before him was none other than Bruce Banner, the Hulk.
Although Ethan was confident he could handle Hulk in his current state, he still had no intention of testing that theory. A rampaging green giant was the last thing his studio needed.
This was precisely why he had arranged the meeting here instead of at home. After all, he had only agreed because of the system.
To be honest, he was already regretting it.
The Hulk template was undeniably powerful, but it wasn't exactly subtle. Not only did it ruin clothes, but it also—well, turned you green.
Besides, getting the system to recognize Banner as his "extraordinary relative" would take time. Without that prerequisite, Banner's mission wouldn't trigger.
"Yes, Mr. Lee."
Banner's expression was weary. "I've heard that painting can be calming. I want to give it a try."
"If you're struggling with emotional control, you should probably see a doctor."
Ethan leaned back, unconvinced. "Painting can be therapeutic, but it can also drive people mad."
"Take Vincent van Gogh, for example—everyone knows his story."
"Dr. Banner, do you need me to give you more examples?"
Banner nodded.
"I know this might not work," he admitted, "but I've tried everything else. No harm in trying this too."
No harm for you. But for me…
Ethan was about to reply when his phone buzzed.
Only Jessica and a few others had notifications set, so he checked it.
A message from Jessica:
[Ethan, I want to start a Ghost Spider fan club! ]
[You like Ghost Spider too, right? Can you design a poster for us??]
[I'm announcing it at the party tonight.]
[Oh, and guess what—Gwen's a fan too! I can't wait to see her reaction.]
Ethan smirked.
She's definitely going to freak out.
Turning to his computer, he opened a design program.
"If you're serious, Banner, then I agree."
He glanced up while adjusting the screen. "You can assist me for now. At least until you decide this isn't for you."
Banner smiled. "Thanks, Ethan."
No problem.
Might as well make use of free labor.
---
Midtown High School
Back in class, Gwen and Jessica were seated near the front.
The man at the podium was a middle-aged professor with a missing arm—Dr. Curtis Connors. His expertise in biology made him an engaging lecturer, guiding the class effortlessly through complex topics.
Gwen listened attentively. She had interned under Dr. Connors at Oscorp over the summer and respected his knowledge.
Jessica, on the other hand, was absentmindedly typing on her phone.
Ethan: [I'm already working on the poster. I'll bring it tonight.]
Jessica: [Wow, for once, you're not being lazy, brother.]
Ethan: [I have a great helper. A genius, actually. Learns fast.]
Jessica: [Thanks for the effort! I'll even save you a spot as vice president of the club.]
Ethan: [Wait… aren't you supposed to be in class?]
Jessica: [Uh… (??)]
Ethan: [Put your phone down, Jessica. Or else.]
Jessica groaned.
Damn, my brother is so sneaky!
She quickly pocketed her phone, fearing the consequences later.
Gwen, watching her, chuckled. "Jessica, Dr. Connors doesn't lecture often. You should pay attention."
She tilted her chin toward the front. "Look at Peter—he's hanging onto every word."
Jessica scoffed. "Tch."
She pouted. "That nerd? Please. I had to save him from Thompson's bullying once."