As The Only Mutant in Marvel

After learning that Lance was her senior, Gwen relaxed and chatted with him. They found a quiet spot to sit and talk about Lance's school days, funny stories from his time as a student, and Gwen's struggles with her strict tutor and pressure to secure a college recommendation.

During the conversation, Lance learned that Gwen's mentor was none other than Professor Connors—better known as Professor Lizard in some universes.

But for now, Professor Connors was still an accomplished scientist, physically disabled yet determined to conquer cross-species gene transplantation. Unlike his counterpart in other worlds, this version of Connors hadn't yet transformed into the monstrous Lizard hiding in sewers.

In fact, with the sudden death of Roman Osborn in this world, Connors' research had continued without pressure to experiment prematurely. Even Harry Osborn had shown interest in his project, ensuring its funding didn't run dry.

Lance also wondered if this version of Harry Osborn suffered from the hereditary genetic disease plaguing his family. Roman's sudden death might have left Harry clues about it in his will, but Harry had never mentioned it. Lance couldn't tell whether Harry was hiding the truth, had found a cure, or simply didn't want to dwell on it.

…

Lance and Gwen continued talking for a while, finding themselves more comfortable as the minutes passed.

When Gwen glanced at her watch, her eyes widened.

"Oh! It's almost 4:30!"

She had been so engrossed in their conversation that she hadn't realized how much time had passed.

"Do you have somewhere to be?" Lance asked casually.

"Not really. My shift ends at 4:30." Gwen laughed nervously.

Lance grinned. "Perfect timing, then. I'm leaving too. Want me to drop you off?"

"How do you know we're on the way?" Gwen teased, arching a brow.

"If you live in Liberty City, everything's on the way for me."

"I don't believe it!" Gwen smirked but eventually agreed. "Actually, to thank you for finding my badge earlier, I'll treat you to dinner."

"Oh no, I can't let you do that." Lance feigned hesitation before adding, "So what's for dinner?"

Gwen burst out laughing. "You're impossible."

…

After Gwen said goodbye to Professor Connors, she joined Lance in the elevator and followed him to his car.

"Get in." Lance opened the passenger door for her like a gentleman.

"Is this your car?" Gwen asked, taking in the sleek blue and white Koenigsegg.

She remembered seeing him in a different car last time and raised an eyebrow.

"You don't drive the same car every day?"

"It's not that unusual." Lance chuckled. "Hop in."

Sitting inside, Gwen was immediately struck by the stiff leather seats.

"To be honest, this doesn't feel as comfortable as my dad's police car." She adjusted herself awkwardly.

"Comfort isn't the point of a car like this."

"Then what is?" Gwen asked, genuinely curious.

"Showing off." Lance grinned, making Gwen roll her eyes.

"Versailles much?"

Lance smirked. "Versailles? I'm just being honest. When you can buy one of these every day without blinking, it's not expensive."

Gwen blinked. "Wait… what?"

Lance didn't elaborate. He simply started the engine and drove off.

…

The two soon arrived at a cozy, romantic restaurant. The dim lighting and candlelit tables hinted that this was more of a couple's spot.

Gwen immediately felt her cheeks heat up.

"Um… you sure this is the right place?" she asked nervously, her voice faltering.

"Why not? Good food, good company. Perfect, isn't it?" Lance said nonchalantly, leading her inside.

She followed, trying to calm her racing heart.

They sat at a corner table, and Lance picked up the menu.

"What do you feel like eating?" he asked.

Gwen quickly scanned the menu, her eyes widening at the prices. Everything was more expensive than her weekly intern pay.

"Uh… maybe something light?" Gwen said hesitantly.

Lance noticed her hesitation and decided to make it easier for her.

"How about I guess what you like?"

"Oh? Confident, are we?" Gwen teased, her earlier embarrassment fading.

"Always." Lance grinned and flagged down the waiter.

As they placed their order, Gwen couldn't help but glance at Lance and smile.

"You're… interesting, you know that?" she said.

"I'll take that as a compliment." Lance winked.

Gwen laughed, feeling more at ease.

But deep down, one thought kept circling in her head—"He must never find out I'm Spider-Woman!"

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