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Chapter 8 - Chapter 7: So it begins

The Moon, Earth-616150

Not Named Watcher's POV

While Doom is busy burning, Reed Richards is having the time of his life at the party. He's drinking to his heart's content after some cocktails Ben created. In all my observations across the universe, I've never seen a Reed Richards party. The other Watchers will be furious when I tell them what I witnessed—heh. A low chuckle escaped me. That surprised me. This Reed Richards is dangerous; he can even make a Watcher laugh.

As a Watcher, I see him using this time to bond even more with Ben. But what Reed doesn't know is that a surprise awaits him in the morning.

Frat Party, Earth-616150

Reed Richards' POV

While drinking and dancing, I noticed Ben talking to the DJ. I couldn't hear their conversation, but I deduced it would be something embarrassing—the DJ laughed, handed him a microphone, and cut the music, all while smirking mischievously. Everyone turned to Ben, curious about what he'd say.

He tapped the mic aggressively. "Does this work?! Test, test—" More tapping, then a deafening PIIIIIIIE screeched through the speakers, making everyone—myself included—groan in pain "UGH!". Ben flashed an awkward smile, clearly embarrassed.

"Sorry about that... but now I've got your attention, heh." The crowd chuckled. "I'll keep it short so you can get back to partying. I just wanna say my friend Reed Richards—I call him 'Brainiac'—earned his Ph.D. in just 70 days. Reed, get up here! He's a bit shy."

Before I could react, some buff dude, probably one of Ben's football buddies, hauled me onto the stage in front of 150 people. Ben shoved the mic into my hand. I shot him a skeptical, pleading look. He just grinned and gave me a thumbs-up.

Revenge, I thought. Or, as Doom would say: Reed will have his revenge.

"Eh—" Great. A voice crack. "I mean, glad you're all here! Didn't know Benjamin planned this just to embarrass me." Damn, I was nervous. At least my misery got a few chuckles. "I didn't prepare a speech, so I'll keep it brief: LET'S PARTY UNTIL WE CAN'T STAND ANYMORE!"

I prefer being an introvert over this. But I should enjoy these moments before everything goes to shit—before I'm fighting cosmic beings, God Emperor Doom, the Maker, or whatever else this world throws at me. So, smile and enjoy.

"BRAINIAC! BRAINIAC! BRAINIAC!" clap clap clap clap

Now I'm truly embarrassed. They're chanting my nickname and clapping like drunkards. Maybe I should drink more to forget this night.

15 Hours Later, Room 616 *(A Bit R-18—No, you know what)

"UGH." I woke up with a splitting headache and something someone under the sheets with me. I lifted the covers slightly and saw a beautiful woman. My heartbeat spiked.

She had gorgeous, curly black hair, and her body felt soft against mine. I shook off the daze. Please tell me we used protection.

Doing what any man should, I woke her by pinching her butt.

"Ahh!" She jolted, then sat atop me, her voluptuous mountains bouncing. I've achieved enlightenment. She flashed a flirtatious smile—the kind that could kill.

"Sleepyhead's finally awake," I said, mirroring her grin.

"Yes, I am, Brainiac," she teased.

"And who might you be, lovely maid?" I asked playfully.

She chuckled. "I go by many names, but most call me Alyssa Moy."

I know her—Reed's first girlfriend. What's she doing here instead of Vienna?

"Nice to meet you, Alys. I'm R—"

She cut me off. "Reed Richards. Smartest person on campus—after me, of course."

I laughed. "You?!"

"Obviously. I'm somewhat of a genius myself." Her smirk was downright arrogant.

"I should go. It was... fun, Brainiac." She slid off me and reached for her clothes. I checked discreetly—thank God, protection was used—then shamelessly enjoyed the view as she dressed.

"Will I see you again?" I asked, half-hoping.

"No. This was a one-night stand. Before my flight to Vienna, I wanted to sleep with the smartest man on campus. It was either you or Victor, but he didn't earn his Ph.D. like you. So, advice: Don't hook up with just one genius woman. Spread those genes. Flood the pool."

"So... you're saying I should start a harem?"

"Yes. Bye now." And just like that, she left. I couldn't even say goodbye. Crazy woman. Telling me to sire an army of geniuses. I don't want a harem. Comic Reed had barley time for one woman.

"Heh. Ridiculous," I muttered, laughing. My heart's got room for only one.

I should get dressed before Ben walks in... or maybe I'll stay naked as payback?

Reed's laughter turned menacing. Benjamin Grimm had no idea what awaited him.

Ben had woken up sandwiched between two cheerleaders, thinking his day couldn't start better—until he opened their dorm door to a naked Reed and screamed:

"WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU NAKED?! AHHH, MY EYES! MAKE ME FORGET THIS ABOMINATION!"

"OH GOD, ERASE THIS MEMORY! I was having the perfect morning, and now—THIS!"

I, the Watcher, could make him forget... but I don't interfere.

Reed laughed—pure, vindictive joy.

"YOU DID THIS ON PURPOSE!" Ben roared. "BECAUSE OF YESTERDAY?! YOU SICKO!"

Reed was in a full laughing spree now.

"PUT ON CLOTHES! I've got news!" Ben's tone killed Reed's laughter instantly. He dressed quickly.

"What's got you so serious?" Reed asked, still smirking.

"Victor von Doom had an accident. His machine exploded—some say because he activated it too soon. He even fought with a dean over not getting a Ph.D. like you."

Reed's smile vanished and thought seriously

'So it begins.'

Author's Note:

I have more scenes, but they wouldn't fit in this chapter. This one was again a bit slice-of-life, but don't worry - I've blue-balled you all too much already. But believe me, next chapter he'll have his own corporation and an interview. At least you got to see a bit of spicy Alyssa Moy action, so don't be angry.

How'd you like the Watcher? Should he be a standalone POV narrator

or be like in the end? Part of all POVs and describe the characters?

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