"Hey Mark, did you see the news about the Mauler Twin wreaking havoc at the White House yesterday?"
Mark Grayson glanced briefly at his friend, William, before replying, "Yeah, it was wild. Thankfully the Guardians of the Globe were there to save the day."
"Guess that's one big plus for them. Anyway, what are you doing after class? Wanna hang out?" William asked.
"Nah, I've got my shift at Burger Mart later."
"Oh yeah, I forgot you were working. Good for you."
Mark nodded, smiling, but then he suddenly heard two loud voices clashing down the hallway.
"Come on, Amber, just admit you like me!" a guy shouted, reaching for the arm of a Black girl, who immediately slapped his hand away.
"No. I don't like you, and I never will. Please, just leave me alone."
"Hah, the fuck do you mean? Don't tell me you're a fucking lesbian."
Amber's expression darkened instantly. "What did you just say?"
Mark's gaze sharpened as he approached. The guy was Todd — a walking ego with fists. And the girl? Amber Bennett. Smart, sharp, probably the coolest person at their school. Mark had always thought she seemed really chill.
"I said you're a fucking—" Todd started, grabbing her shoulder.
"Let go of her."
Mark stepped in, yanking Todd's hand off Amber.
"The fuck's your problem, freak?"
"My problem is you, Todd. Don't be a bitch. Get out of here."