My superpower is just for you

6

Blake looked down, our gazes meeting in what could be described as a scene straight out of a romantic movie.

However...

As I stared at Blake, my cheeks flushed redder and redder until I couldn't take it anymore. "My arms are starting to ache, can you get up, please?"

Blake practically leaped out of my embrace and dashed to the small living area to fetch me a drink.

I rotated my neck, massaging my sore arms, utterly bewildered by this absurd superpower.

The weakest part wasn't just the power itself, but its utter passivity, with Blake entirely in control.

Whenever Blake stumbled or tripped, I'd instantly teleport to his side, arms ready to catch him.

Just picturing it was enough to drive anyone mad.

With Blake being the star student and me the underachiever of the Superpowers Academy's F class, it looked like I was attempting some sort of scam.

"Here's some water, Zoe." Blake handed me a soft yellow cup.

Glancing at the adorable cup and then at Blake, the legendary scholar seemed a bit off-character.

"Do you find this superpower... bothersome?"

Holding the cup, I hesitated, "It's... okay, I guess..."

"I'll try not to...," Blake searched for the right words, "...put myself in unbalanced situations."

I was puzzled at first but then realized he meant, "I'll try not to give you a reason to use your superpower."

But I still wanted to graduate...

"Actually, I think this superpower is... kinda cool," I stammered out the white lie, "I used to be really frail, but now a bump from you doesn't hurt. Plus... catching you... it's good for my arm strength..."

Blake stared at me, puzzled by my bizarre logic.

"Why would you say that?"

"Maybe if you've seen 'Popeye the Sailor,' you'd understand. Popeye's my idol..." I trailed off, "It's getting late, shouldn't you be heading out?"

Even knowing we were once close, the familiarity felt strange. I decided to make a quick exit.

"If you ever want to... practice your superpower, just let me know..."

"Thanks, I appreciate it." At least now I was less worried about failing next semester.

"Zoe, can I see you again?" Blake seemed nervous, fiddling with his shirt hem.

"Sure!"

Seeing my nod, Blake's smile brightened, his eyes sparkling, almost tempting me to turn my passive power into an active one.

"Let me walk you home; it's not very safe here at night."

Blake grabbed his jacket and headed for the door.

Galactic Academy was known for its safety; what could be the danger? But I couldn't quite refuse Blake, considering our past connection, however faint in my memory. Additionally, maintaining communication might benefit my superpower.

Stepping out of the dorm, I immediately realized my mistake.