Marvel: Superman's Survival Guide

**Check out my ko-fi for more advanced chapters at ko-fi.com/rookie99

Before dinner, Link and Jessica arrived at the restaurant. Activating his super hearing, Link monitored the surroundings near the art gallery.

Shortly after they were seated, Tracy arrived, surprised to see Jessica, her hand flying to her mouth in shock. "Oh my God, Jessica, is that you?"

"How do I look?" Jessica laughed. "Do I look different?"

"Of course! Chanel? Cartier?" Tracy whispered excitedly. "It looks like he really is a millionaire."

"Exactly, he said my hairstyle and clothes were lacking," Jessica whispered back, covering her mouth. "We spent the whole day shopping, though we still have some things left to buy."

"I'm coming home with you tonight."

"Home? Are you crazy?" Tracy gave her a stunned look. "You should strike while the iron's hot!"

"You're being silly. I left all my lingerie at home. That's what we didn't buy—underwear and pajamas," Jessica said, feeling a little embarrassed.

"Ah, I see. Even American women dress up for their man," Tracy mused before slyly asking, "So, what kind are you planning to buy?"

"We'll see when we get there!" Jessica blushed deeply.

Meanwhile, Link had already instructed the waiter to have the chef recommend some dishes and pair them with the appropriate wines. After getting the recommendations, the three made adjustments to the order based on their individual preferences and appetites.

While chatting with the women, Link kept an ear on the art gallery. After some time, a convoy arriving at the gallery caught his attention. From the conversation he overheard, Wilson Fisk had arrived. Fisk insisted on entering the gallery alone, refusing the company of his entourage.

As the three finished their meal, Link suddenly spoke up, "Ladies, how about we change locations? I've been meaning to pick up a few paintings."

"Sounds great!" Tracy agreed eagerly. She was ready to help her sister with her new relationship.

The three settled the bill and left. In the car, Jessica said, "I'll go back home with Tracy tonight since we have so many things to sort through."

"No problem. Here are the keys to the apartment, and take this," Link handed her a card. "Remember to shop at the big brands—I'm looking forward to it."

Jessica hesitated but accepted the card, knowing she couldn't afford those brands on her own.

"Do you want me to work?" Jessica suddenly asked, "Or would you prefer me to stay home?"

"That's up to you," Link replied. "But don't rush. Find a job that you truly enjoy, not something you'll quit halfway through."

"A woman can have her own career!"

"Yes, think about it carefully." Jessica was starting to seriously contemplate her future.

Arriving at the gallery, Link opened the car door for Jessica and helped her out. She was dressed in a black low-cut gown with a wool coat draped over her shoulders, and high-heeled boots completing the look.

They met Tracy and entered the gallery together. "I did some research. This place is known for its modern oil paintings," Link explained. "I meant to come yesterday, but, well, I ran into you two instead."

Jessica glanced at a few paintings hanging near the entrance. "What do these represent?" she asked.

"It's subjective. Each painting has a name, but whether it resonates with you is something only you can decide," Link responded with a smile. "These pieces are very idealistic."

"Some people don't understand them at all, while others fall in love with them. The designer left many parts of my apartment empty for me to decorate."

"Yes, I noticed how spacious it is," Jessica nodded in agreement as they continued their walk, pausing briefly at each artwork along the way.

Link hadn't found a painting that struck him yet, but he wasn't concerned about Wilson Fisk. Instead, his focus was on attracting Vanessa Marianna, the gallery manager and art dealer. She would know which customers were serious about buying paintings.

Finally, the trio stopped in front of a piece dominated by shades of red. Or rather, Link stopped. Using his X-ray vision, he noticed a hidden signature by the artist, although it wasn't from any famous painter.

The painting gave him a particular feeling, with its seemingly chaotic brushstrokes of red and orange conveying a sense of warmth. Link thought it would look perfect in his dining room.

Jessica watched Link carefully, then began to study the painting herself. She took his advice and focused less on what was literally depicted and more on the emotional impression it left.

Meanwhile, Wilson Fisk was at the gallery to invite Vanessa Marianna to dinner. He had fallen for her while purchasing artwork, and she accepted his invitation. However, with so many guests still present, she couldn't leave yet.

Fisk assured her he could wait, saying he admired her focus on her work.

Vanessa soon noticed Link and his companions standing in front of a painting. The way Link looked at the artwork told her he was interested in buying it. She approached them, positioning herself to Link's left while Jessica clung to his right, with Tracy standing beside Jessica.

"Are you interested in this piece?" Vanessa asked, choosing not to discuss its meaning directly since Link wasn't alone and had female company.

Link turned to face her, noting her refined demeanor. However, he could also tell she was someone drawn to danger.

"Yes, this painting feels warm to me," Link replied. "I think it would look great in my dining room."

"If I have a few kids in the future, it will be even more fitting."

Jessica blushed at this comment. Was he hinting at starting a family with her?

Vanessa nodded slightly, impressed by his insight. "You have a deep understanding of art."

"No, I don't know much about this, especially abstract art," Link shook his head. "I've been reading a few books recently and have learned a little about different styles and techniques, mostly to decorate my new apartment."

"But I do understand psychology. I think abstract art is very subjective—it's about what the collector feels."

"Art's value comes from the people who appreciate it."

"Well said." A voice suddenly chimed in from the side. It was Wilson Fisk. He had been watching Vanessa and had, of course, noticed Link as well.

"Mr. Link, do you remember me?"

________________________________________

I hope you're enjoying the story so far! If you're liking it, please consider leaving a review and dropping a Power Stone. Your feedback and support mean a lot to me and help keep the story going.

(End of chapter)