Aurum ✧ Peter Parker

✧ ˚ 27 · twenty-seven .

Liz, who was leaning against the locker beside Michelle, chimed in with a grin. "You know Michelle and her never-ending collection of intriguing novels."

Michelle couldn't help but roll her eyes playfully. "Well, you both seem remarkably fine for two people who seemed to have drank a bit too much last night."

Ava chuckled, appreciating her enhanced healing that spared her the torment of a hangover. "I wouldn't say we were that far gone."

Michelle leaned closer, her gaze shifting between the two. "Ava, my friend, I distinctly remember you serenading 'Dancing Queen' while performing acrobatics on the sofa."

Liz chimed in with a grin before Ava could reply, her voice dripping with good-natured teasing. "You know, Michelle, that sounds like something we'd do even if we were completely sober."

Ava burst into laughter at Liz's comment, nodding in agreement.

"True, true," Michelle conceded, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "So, Ava, what's your secret for avoiding the morning-after struggle?"

Ava chuckled, enjoying the playful conversation. "Oh, you know, just a combination of good genes and luck."

Liz raised an eyebrow, a knowing grin on her face. "Come on, Ava, spill the beans. You can't fool us."

Ava pretended to look thoughtful, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Well, let's just say I have a magical remedy that involves lots of water and an early night's sleep."

Michelle burst into laughter, shaking her head in amusement. "Ava Stark, the keeper of mystical hangover cures. Who would've thought?"

Having neatly organized her books, Ava snapped her locker shut and fell into step with the group as they strolled down the bustling hallway.

Liz, the inquisitive one, couldn't resist probing further. "So, Ava, how did Daddy react to your late-night return, especially in such a state?"

Ava couldn't help but roll her eyes, a subtle grin touching her lips. "You know, Liz, Daddy has his own troubles to contend with since the separation from my step-mom. Conversations between us have been somewhat few and far between."

Ava's friends exchanged understanding glances, acknowledging the complexities of Ava's life that often remained hidden from the casual observer.

Michelle's expression softened, and she placed a comforting hand on Ava's shoulder. "Well, if you ever need someone to talk to or just hang out with, you know we're here for you, right?"

Ava couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and gratitude as Michelle's comforting hand rested on her shoulder. Her friends' genuine care meant more to her than words could express. She nodded, her smile reflecting the depth of her appreciation. "I know, and I'm really lucky to have friends like you both."

As Liz's playful remark triggered another round of laughter, Ava's heart felt a little lighter. Their banter and camaraderie were like a soothing balm, easing some of the weight she carried. The hallways echoed with their laughter as they walked, and Ava couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of connection with her friends.

When they finally reached their first lesson, Ava and Michelle exchanged their farewells with the rest of the group. Walking into the classroom, Ava couldn't help but carry the warmth of her friends' presence with her, making the day ahead seem a little brighter.

Ava sat in her usual seat, waiting for Ned and Peter to arrive, the classroom buzzed with the chatter of students settling into their desks. 

As the minutes ticked by, Ned entered the classroom with his trademark enthusiasm, and Peter followed closely behind. Their arrival brought a smile to Ava's lips, and she greeted them with a nod.