"I know that you are a mutant capable of controlling light." My words echoed in her head like an atomic explosion. The emotions on her face shifted rapidly: fear, apprehension, anger, doubt... She began to glance around at the carefree people skating, as if trying to assess who else might be watching her.
"Don't be so nervous," I said calmly. "I didn't say this to harm or threaten you. Quite the opposite—I want to help."
"Help?" the girl asked sarcastically. "And how exactly do you plan to help me? Working for the government? Or perhaps you want me to become some kind of living experiment?"
"Not at all. I'm not part of the government or any secret organization. I am exactly who you've seen me as all this time—a writer, musician, singer, game developer, and founder of a small company."
"Hard to believe. Then how do you know the truth about me? Most people don't even know mutants exist, yet you not only know who I am but also the specifics of my abilities. How do you explain that?"
"Have you already forgotten what I said? I'm just a person who knows more than others. Let's call it my little peculiarity."
"Peculiarity? Are you saying you're also a mutant?" she asked doubtfully, calming down a little.
"No, I'm not like you, but I am special in my own way." I extended my palm, and a small ring materialized in my hand. A second later, it vanished.
"You are a mutant!" she declared with firm confidence.
"I don't want to disappoint you, but that's not true."
"But you do have abilities…"
"Exactly. I have an ability, but it's not a mutation—it's my personal peculiarity. I call it 'Inventory.' Think of it as a spatial pocket. Well, have you calmed down now?"
"I still don't quite understand. Are you saying your power is how you know about me and my ability?" Alison asked, summing up the situation.
"Not entirely. I can't fully explain it… Let's just say there are things I simply 'know.' I understand it's hard to trust, but I promise I won't hurt you."
"Who else knows about me?" She began scanning her surroundings again. "Who else have you told?"
"No one. You don't need to look—there's no one watching us here."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Oh, right… So, no one knows about me yet."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that," I said awkwardly.
"What do you mean?" she asked, her wariness returning.
"Do you really believe the authorities haven't found out about your abilities? For instance, 'S.H.I.E.L.D.' is a government military organization—a very powerful one. They keep records of all supernatural beings, including mutants. I'm almost certain they know about you. And then there's 'A.R.G.U.S.,' an even more dangerous organization, especially for people like you. If you cross their path, expect trouble."
"Then why haven't they approached me yet?"
"Because you haven't done anything wrong. You haven't participated in any major incidents or joined any organizations. If they restricted the freedom of all mutants they knew of, there would be rebellion. They understand it's better not to act recklessly… for now."
"So, they might come for me in the future?" Alison's voice trembled slightly.
"Perhaps… but don't worry. I won't let anyone hurt you."
"Oh, and how exactly do you plan to help me? And, more importantly, why would you want to?"
"Good questions. Let's walk a bit more and clear our thoughts." Taking her hand, I led her to glide across the white floor again.
Over time, Alison managed to calm down and even enjoy the moment. The clock struck 6 PM.
We left the rink and headed to a nearby café to continue our conversation over dinner.
After ordering, we sat in silence, looking into each other's eyes.
"So, will you finally tell me what you want from me?" she asked, her curiosity evident.
"Do you suspect me of something? You're scaring me with whatever scenarios you've imagined."
"A lot… but I'd rather hear the truth than keep guessing. I'm listening."
"Well, as they say, suspicion is worse than knowing. Reality has boundaries, but imagination doesn't."
"I'm listening!" Alison enunciated each word with clear impatience.
"I want to offer you a position at my company," I finally revealed.
"What are you talking about? I'm just a singer. Are you suggesting I give up my music career?"
"Of course not. You'll continue singing. In fact, after I write a few hit songs for you, you'll be more famous than ever. But I also want you to manage my recording studio, Alritex Records. I'm offering you the position of studio director."
"What?!" She stared at me, stunned, as though I'd just said the most ridiculous thing in the world. "What are you even thinking? What kind of director would I be? I know nothing about management. And how could I possibly balance singing and running a studio? Why do you even want me for this?"
"It's my company, and I do what I want. I think you're the most suitable candidate for this role."
"Why would you think that?"
"I trust you. Trust is one of the most important qualities I look for in my employees."
"Trust? We've barely known each other for a day!"
"I didn't mention it before, but I have another exceptional feature—intuition. It's developed to unimaginable levels. It tells me you're the person who deserves my trust. Besides, I've known about you for far longer than just today."
"I don't even want to ask…"
"Additionally, you're very strong. You could protect the company in case of trouble, don't you think? As far as I know, you're one of the most powerful mutants."
In the comics, the government once kidnapped Dazzler for their Pegasus Project, a prison where experiments were conducted on superhumans. They couldn't determine the limits of Alison's powers and concluded she was one of the strongest mutants on Earth. Having such an ally would be incredible.
"But I know nothing about management!" Alison said, slumping her shoulders.
"You've been managing your career all this time—concerts, tours, equipment, contracts—everything by yourself. You underestimate yourself. You just need to learn the finer details, and you'll be ready to lead confidently. You have a natural aura of leadership. The studio is currently run by Vivian Diaz, the acting director. She'll teach you everything and prepare you. I'll make her your deputy so she can support you and step in whenever you're busy with concerts. She's trustworthy—you'll like her."
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