Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Within one of New York City's private, rooftop galleries, a girl in a black catsuit watched as the web swinging Spider-Man was patrolling.

The night was too quiet for Spider-Man's liking as he swung through the skyscrapers of New York City. The day had been unusually peaceful with no bank robberies or super villains reported on the police radio. It gave the boy an itch that needed scratching as the middays of Summer were fast approaching. Yet any action he sought was out of sight as he left the area.

Black Cat's green eyes blinked slowly as she turned to the private gallery behind her. For all its high end security, a few viruses and some hacking rendered most inoperable. The only thing left was the motion detectors and cameras at the elevator door, but she was rarely one for conventional entry.

"Alright, Black Cat, what your prize today?" she hummed, widely striding through like a kid in a candy store.

The moonlight illuminated parts of the gallery from the skylight, making exquisite art shine like chests of gold. Brush strokes of the paintings came to life while jewels sparkled, reflecting back in the kitten's eyes.

In the center, two gems caught her full attention from their display case. Black Cat strutted over as she eyed the glowing, green emerald on the right and the icy blue jeremejevite on the left. Both were cut into oval shapes with their glistening light staring back at the thief.

"A blue eye and a green eye." Black Cat purred as she flexed her fingers, extending claws to carved out a circle. "Just the memento I need."

With her prize tucked away, the girl decided to make a silent getaway into the night. A large smile made itself irremovable as she thought back to the pair of blue and green eyes she saw back in Amity Park.

Walking around, admiring the charm the town of Amity had to offer, Felicia Hardy sighed as crossed another street. Life in the big cities had more to offer from chained companies to a sea of local shops and flavors to enjoy, but this town lack whatever she would want. There were not even any good parties she was hearing off, and the boys in town said nothing in their attempted flirting. However, her mother was working in the area, for now. So she had to know her surroundings, especially since a client called for her here.

The idea of a heist brought a smile to her face as she past a billboard, showing off the hero of Amity Park: Danny Phantom. With a different hero in the area, who knows what could happen.

"Hey there, baby. Looking for some fun?"

Sadly, though, it still had the same kind of boys who would make every attempt to hit on her. None of them were even original, and they all tried to act suave or were too excited upon seeing her.

"You new in town?"

"Hello, beautiful!"

"You like shortstops?"

It always got old. Thinking back, Felicia wondered why she joined this dating service, You+Me=Love!. Her curiosity not gotten the better of her, yet most of her dates were the same drooling, debonair show off with no brain in his head or did not use it.

Hopefully, this time her date would have more than an empty head or muscles.

Today's date was at a place called Café Des Fleurs. According to the map app, that was few miles away with only minutes away on foot. Usually, she'd take her time and enjoy the sites, but she did not want to be late.

Her father told her, never settle for second best. So, that meant giving maximum effort, even with bad dates. Besides, if no one ever got a perfect ten from her, then she'd just get a refund.

Slipping into a nearby alley, the girl gave any admirers the slip as she swiftly scaled to the rooftops. Stretching her arms, Felicia thought how annoying it was being so beautiful.

From her backpack came her black catsuit and white wig, allowing her to sightsee while jetting to her destination. And by that, she would look at the jewelry stores, electronic boutiques, and latest cars. Of course, a girl has priorities, and this one had a job to do as she scoped out the museum. One thing the girl didn't expect to see was the local cape flying at high speed, barely catching a glimpse of his snowy white hair and glowing green eyes.

"Hmmm...wonder where he's off to in such a hurry," Black Cat thought to herself as she followed the boy to an alley next to Cafe Des Fleurs. It was surprising he landed there, and more so when she saw white rings project from the ghost boy, parting to turn white to black and green to blue.

And it things got even more interesting when she saw a familiar heart-shaped sticker on his shirt, which he neatly adjusted.

"Oh my..." Climbing down, Black Cat dressed down into Felicia Hardy, aka Party Hardy, taking the same heart shaped sticker and putting on her shirt. "Things just got interesting."

"Excuse me, you wouldn't happen to be D-Fenton, would you?" She asked, following the boy to the entrance.

Felicia didn't expect much, especially when he gave her a dumbfounded face she had seen many times before. All the boy could say was, "Wow," as his jaw dropped. Though it was kind of cute on him.

"Thank you. Now better close up. You don't want to catch flies," Hardy teased as the boy blushed and closed his mouth.

"You mean…you're Party Hardy?"

"Yes, but I prefer Felicia." The blonde girl flirtatiously flipped her platinum blonde hair.

"Felicia," the boy whispered it like a dream as he stared at her face, a first for her. Most guys had eyed her body, never leaving it. Those dates ended fast.

"I-I'm Danny Fenton…uh…also D-Fenton," Danny finally introduced himself as he broke free of his stupor and handed her the flowers.

Inside, Felicia was a little touched. The other guys had greeted by flexing their "charm." So, she returned the gift with a bright smile, which widened a bit when Danny's posture remained knee weakened during the moment.

But not enfeebling the boy enough for him to open the café door.

"Manners. That's one point in your favor. Let's see how you keep up," Felicia cooed with a pleased voice as she strutted inside.

They went in, got their tables, where they began asking each other about themselves. Felica was having fun with this boy who was like putty in her hands.

"So Felicia...tell me all about yourself," Danny said, feverously keeping his hands clenched as sweat collected. His eyes shook, but kept themselves on the blonde girl's eyes.

That gave him another point, even if his pupils dropped every few minutes.

"Hmmm...well, there really isn't all that much. I'm just a simple sixteen-year-old girl from New York, and I live with my mother in Midtown," Felicia replied with a sensuous voice.

"So, where do you go to school?"

"Well, my mother works for this large corporation, OsCorp, and she usually travels to several different branches during the year. We mostly stay in New York but sometimes go to places like Boston, Rhoda Island, and Amity Park during the year. So, I am constantly changing schools," Felicia said to Danny's surprise. "Currently, we are in Amity Park since my mother is handling some business for her boss during the summer."

"I see. So, what do you like to do for fun?"

"Practicing judo, gymnastics, shopping, going to parties, and just trying to have fun here and there." At these words, Felicia showed off her perfectly white smile. "What about you, Blue Eyes? Tell me, what are you all about?"

Danny's face grew several shades of red as he stuttered for an answer. "I am fourteen-years-old. I grew up here in Amity Park. I go to Casper High, and my interests include astronomy, NASA, playing video games, bowling, and having fun with my friends."

"Fourteen, huh?" Felicia questioned with a raised brow.

"Uh...yeah."

"Well, they say younger men can surprise you. Why don't we wait and see if that's true." Felicia could not hold back a smirk, actually enjoying herself on a date.

Thinking back, she recalled how some of the boys were older or just as old, yet were very immature, especially that date with The Jonesmeister. Now that was a short date she never wanted to remember.

"Okay," Danny sighed. The girl chuckled internally at how he is pretty much putty right now.

"So...uh...what made you decide to go into blind dating?"

That was another point for the ghost boy. Nobody else asked that question, assuming she was looking for some fun.

"Hmmm...well, I saw the flyer and well...I guess I was kind of curious. Like I said on my profile, I like a challenge, and what's more challenging than seeing if this place can actually produce a guy that can handle me. What about you?" Felicia sent him a flirty look, making Danny gulp once more.

"I-my friend found out. He talked me into-into trying it and well...here I am," Danny said with a somewhat steady composure as his hands danced in the explanation. He was doing well compared to Felicia's other dates when she turned on the charm. He was still putty, but did not go stupid and crazy.

"Are you ready, Danny?" Felicia asked with bedroom eyes.

"Huh?" Danny's face turned red again.

"Your order." Felicia gestured to the arriving waiter.

The server stared wide eyed from what few words he heard. He jotted down an order for steak and lasagna and was off. This left Danny and Felicia to continue chatting about various topics, while the boy still found himself mesmerized by her beauty.

Felicia could barely contain herself, smirking at the fun she was having. This was almost too easy.

Lunch flew by with great food and even better company. Looking at the time on her phone, the girl decided they should walk off the calories. Plus, there was a job coming up, and this kitten always finished her job.

"It is how it is, though I wouldn't trade New York for anything. It's exciting, and you never know what could happen. I like that," Felicia commented about New York explaining life in the city that never sleeps. Danny proved himself a good listener the entire time, dry chuckling in response.

The museum was in sight, only a few blocks away, when the kitten's cell phone buzzed. A quick check made her eyes roll as she scoffed.

"Something wrong?" Danny turned his head.

"Oh, it was my mother. She says she has to work late tonight, is all," Felicia shrugged as she put the phone away.

It was actually the men who were to act as decoys for the heist. Whatever their excuse was did not concern the girl as she sighed deeply. no further questions were asked about the call, but it was cute how attentive the ghost boy was. However, cuteness would not quell the anger under her poker face. Delays or incompetence were frustrating, making the girl mentally comment how good help was hard to find.

She needed something to calm her down. And there's nothing like a little comfort food to help.

"Say, Danny," Felicia started.

"Yes?"

"I'm suddenly in the mood for a milkshake. Would it be too much trouble to make a little stop?"

"Uh...sure. But what about the museum?"

"Oh, it will still be there later. Please?" Felicia asked with battered eyelashes.

Once again, Danny was helpless to her charm as he escorted her to another restaurant, a local teen hangout that was nearby.

Walking up to the location, Felicia noticed the name and could help but double guess the standards on the establishment.

"Nasty Burger?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Don't let the name fool you, it's good."

The ghost boy was taken at his word as they entered the establishment. And to his credit, the place looked better than the title with it's 80's aesthetic. Once inside, they saw that it was packed with the lunch crowd, most of them being teenagers from the boy's own school. Within seconds, Felicia's beauty was working its magic on the men as they gawked and gazed.

Here we go again. The girl thought to herself.

They had ordered their food when Danny noticed the cashier was a friend. Felicia took the time to introduce herself when the clerk's muscles immediately tense. Jealousy oozing off her sculpted, dark figure as a forced smile took their orders, an ex-girlfriend obviously.

To Felicia's surprise, Danny was quite the charmer, albeit innocent as he watched two shakes whipped up in an instant and brought to the counter.

The two took their cups and sat by a booth next to the window, and started enjoying the service. Granted, there was difficultly in doing when half the teenagers there kept stealing glances or staring.

"They are staring at us," Danny muttered the obvious, but Felicia just shrugged, used to this.

"Let them look, we aren't doing anything wrong. We are just two young teens getting some milkshakes together, what could be more innocent than that?" Felicia teased before taking a sip of her shake.

Danny chuckled at that. He was about to continue his own milkshake, had not a loud, obnoxious voice ruined the moment.

"Fenton?!" a jock with blonde hair shouted as he marched to the table with more kids by his side. The girl could hear the boy say, "not again." For some reason, there was also a lanky, orange haired boy held up by the collar, recording this on his phone.

"What do you want, Dash?" Danny asked.

"You have a lot of nerve showing up here after getting us kicked out of Café De Fleurs!" The blonde jock yelled with a pointed finger as he

"I didn't do anything, the security guard did that," Danny defended. It did nothing to deter Dash's anger.

However, one of the friends around him, a pretty Latino girl named Paulina, has her eyes on Felicia, with a critical look.

"Who is she suppose to be?" Paulina demanded. She did not like being upstaged by the other girl, in terms of beauty. The popular girl had know noticed who was taking up all of the guys' attention away from her.

"My name is Felicia. Felicia Hardy," She said, showing off a perfect smile that made everyone drool over her. The anger and jealousy amongst the crowd dissipated as a collective moan echoed in the room.

At least until Dash remembered...

"Oh, man! First that dweeb, then the Ice hockey Hottie, then the kung-fu chick, then the blonde cutie, and now this babe? Okay, Fenton, spill! You never have any game with girls, so where are they all coming from?" Dash towered over Danny as if the boy had personally insulted him. But all his intimidation did was make the ghost boy stare back with narrow eyes and centered mouth.

Felicia looked mildly entertained as she took another sip. one good thing about these hero types, the tiny stuff eventually was not worth the exertion.

"If you must know, I'm on a blind date now. So if you don't mind," Danny answered with a flat tone.

"Blind date?" Paulina asked the question like it was incomprehensible and glanced at the blonde girl again.

"Yeah, I signed up with dating service."

Dash wanted to interject with an insult, only to stop when he heard the boy his mouth quivered before laughter burst out. Others joined in as a chorus of hooting in belittlement, confusing Danny and annoying Felicia.

Felicia stared with dead eyes at the immaturity, commenting in her head in her head since she had signed up as well. There was nothing laughable at that. If anything, it was impressive the boy admitted it.

"What so funny?!" Danny demanded.

"You, blind dating?! Oh man, wait until the whole school hears about this!" Dash laughed while Mikey continued to videotape it.

"And what's wrong with blind dating?" Felicia's cool voice cut through the taunts, becoming the center of attention.

"A lot. If you and those other hotties end up with a loser like this," Dash said, pointing to Danny.

That was when Felicia decided she had enough, and a brilliant idea came to mind to shoo away the flies. Plus, it was high time the boy got a reward for being a nice date.

"I don't think he is a loser," Felicia said as she turned to Danny. her eyes locked on him. "If anything...I think he's pretty adorable."

Felicia was now closing in on Danny, who blushed at her words and body language. His voice was stunned, locked in his throat, as she continued to speak.

"So, from what Behemoth here said, I take it I'm not your first time?" Felicia said in a playful voice with a blushing Danny.

"Yeah, I-I've already been out with some girls so far," the boy replied, his face flushed from the look Felicia was giving him. He gave a pause at the smirk she was sending.

"We're they better than me?" Felicia asked in a soft voice. She had his face the reddest thing in the joint as everyone looked on curiously.

"B-Better at what?"

Felicia had to admit, Danny was cute when he was clueless. At his question, she puckered up and kissed him between his cheek and his temple and then quickly whispered. "Let's mess with that idiot a bit, why don't we?"

Before anything else, her soft lips met the ghost boy's, silencing him as everyone dropped their jaws. The latter melted into the ten second moment. It was chaste but not innocent. And as Felicia pulled away, she took note of the ghost boy's dazed expression and the shell shock from the audience.

Mikey, the lanky nerd, however, didn't even drop the camera in his stupor.

"That," Felicia said flirtatiously to Danny as she playfully tapped him on the nose.

The boy, however, didn't notice since he still looked to be lost in a daydream...

"Danny?" Felicia asked in concern but smirked when she realized that he was still under her spell.

"I...I...Uh...What was the question again?" Danny asked, making Felicia giggle at his response.

Paulina gagged with an eww. Valerie at the clerk's station scowled at the scene. Everyone else, mainly the boys, were slack-jawed right now. Within seconds, teens began leaving to sign up for the service, even the employees in the back. The manager would have complained had he not been trampled. Half eaten burgers and fries were left on some tables as a receipt flew in the wind.

It was apparent everyone went, most likely, in an attempt to land a date with her. Felicia smiled to herself. But noticed Danny muttering as he looked away from her.

What the heck? Felicia could tell something was up.

"Spill it, what's wrong? Most guys I kiss usually just beg for more," Felicia said.

Danny turned back with narrow eyes and a frown. His icy blue pupils stared in her green iris. Now it was the blonde girl's turn to be clueless.

"Did you ever consider the fact that I am not like most guys? Or maybe that wasn't cool what you just did?"

Danny spoke in a stern tone, and Felicia was lost here.

"Why are you upset? Am I not a good kisser? Am I not hot enough for you?" Felicia practically demanded an answer. This was a first for her.

A flip of her hair or batting of her eyelashes made every man victim to her charm. Here, she had full-on kissed a boy, and he's not happy about it.

What is with this guy!? Felicia thought to herself.

"Believe it or not, guys do look for more than just a pretty face to look at or lips to make out with."

"What's that suppose to mean?" Felicia couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"One, you kissed me just to spite someone else, sorry but I don't dig that—"

"You didn't complain while I was kissing you!"

"You're hot, and a great kisser, I admit that but I do want more than that," Danny had spoken with a frown the entire time. Felicia dropped her smirk and sent him a dirty look.

Who does this boy think he is!? Felicia thought to herself as Danny continued.

"I'm not talking about making out. I mean, I do want a girl I can get along with, talk to, have things in common with, someone I can respect, who respects me. And I am sorry, but what you did...I didn't feel respected right there."

Felicia was silent for a moment, her mind was blank, and Danny sighed as he continued.

"Look, you were right when you said that you are hot. But I want a girl who has more to offer than just her looks. I want one that I can respect, and I want to be respected in return."

Felicia dropped her look and was almost surprised. He was not trying to sound good or trying to manipulate her. The boy meant every word.j

"You know...your pretty astute for a fourteen-year-old," Felicia commented.

Danny shrugged with a blank face

"I try and keep it real. all I ask is that you do that too."

Felicia cooed a playful sigh. A tinge of red appeared on her cheek.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to disrespect you. I just figured that well, you wouldn't have minded and well...look, I'm sorry," she said, and Danny, despite himself, cracked a smile at that.

"Alright, apology accepted. Just promise me that if you ever decide to kiss me again...well, I rather it be because you actually want to kiss me, not just to pull a gag."

"I think I can manage that." Felicia gave the boy a smirk.

She was so focused on the boy. The girl hadn't noticed her heart skipped a beat.

The two teens continued to drink their milkshakes. But the girl looked to the ghost boy with a glint in her eye. None of her past dates, during or before the service, had been so honest or upfront to her.

And that was when the ghost boy had begun to grab the attention of the girl known as Felicia Hardy. But the date was not over yet.

The thief snapped back to reality, remembering she was in-between skyscrapers mid-flight. Thinking back, she was supposed to still be in Amity Park with her mother, but a client pulled her back for a couple days, leaving her to her own devices.

And that meant the local the web-slinger was closing in, having spotted her a while ago. Patting the pockets on her jacket, the kitten twirled on the grapple line and looked back at her playmate.

"Well now, this was fun, but I gotta go," Black Cat cooed.

"Hold up!" Spiderman said after being seemingly dazed. "You still have jail time, and I don't think you got early parole."

Spider-Man slung his webbing rapidly, catching up in seconds. the distance between was first meters and then became feet. His arm stretched out to grab the kitten and her jewels when the web fibers gave out, snapping in half as he dropped mid air.

"Seriously? How could I forget about her gaze!?" Spider-Man complained as air rushed past. With a flick of his wrists, a new web latched onto a nearby building and he was back on the chase. Except in his past moment of grumbling the cat girl was out of sight.

And with nothing to trail the girl, the pursuit of futile. Wishing he had grabbed first and talked later, the boy went back to his patrol.

From the fire exit a few blocks away, Black Cat watched through advanced binoculars as she giggled to herself. This was also like the second half of her date.

Felicia and Danny entered the museum, wandering further in as the alarms had just gone off as the decoys did their jobs when Danny and Felica made excuses to hide. The girl knew better about the boy's intentions. Finding a safe area to change, the blonde girl donned her white wig and black catsuit that hugged her body with a jacket with ruffled fur matching her new hair color.

Museum security in Amity Park proved to be no challenge. A cut wire and some grappling hooks and the girl found herself suspended above her target: the jewels of Baset.

Listening to the empty halls, she could hear the hired help , screaming Danny Phantom throughout the building. A swipe of her hand and the girl climbed to the vents and otno the rooftop. Out in the open, She pulled out her burner phone, opening the tracker app. She had placed it on Danny at the burger place during their kiss, but the move was made moot as Danny Phantom appeared in his black and white hazmat suit.

"Alright, buddy, hands in the air you...girl," Danny Phantom whispered that last word.

Felicia smirked as she twirled to the side whist flipping her hair, showing off her curves and charms. A soft purr was heard as she finished her pirouette with a bow.

"Actually, I prefer to be called Black Cat," She introduced, standing back up. Now was another time to be impressed. If Danny was here this fast, then the thugs she hired were either too dumb or too weak. Either way, the kitten always made sure she had a back up plan.

"Oh fine...you caught me," Black Cat said as she held her hands up in surrender.

"That's what I like to hear," Danny chuckled with a smirk as he approached her. His body relaxed as he landed in front of the girl, not realizing how Black Cat's smirk never disappeared.

It was times like this, heists were too easy.

At that moment, the ghost boy made the mistake of looking into her eyes, which suddenly became cat-like and glowed, matching his bright green. In the confusion, Black Cat suddenly backflipped away from him, loot still in hand.

"Sorry, buddy, but you're gonna have to do better than that if you want to catch the Black Cat!" she hollered, hopping and now running on the next rooftop. The thief turned to see her would-be hero being hit by a satellite disk ripped off its hinges. It seems Danny was unlucky enough not to become intangible in time.

"Hmmm...and I thought he'd be a challenge." Black Cat cooed bitterly.

However, to her joy, the ghost boy came back, more persistent than last time with a gritted face as he ran. Picking up speed, the distance between them closed as he chased her. In no time, the two were side by side.

"Hmm...so, you're a guy who doesn't back down easy, huh," Black Cat quipped as she kept running at a tremendous pace.

"Exactly," Danny said with his arms crossed. "Listen, Kitty Cat—"

"Black Cat."

"Fine, Black Cat. I have faced bigger, badder, and more dangerous foes than you, and most of them aren't even human. So this isn't going to end the way you expect it to. So, let's make this easy. Return what you took and come with me." The ghost boy spoke with authority, and command impressed the thief.

"You're a guy who takes charge...I like that in a man..." Black Cat said flirtatiously as she leaned towards the ghost boy, only for her eyes to flash again when she got him to look into them, and she jumped away. "Too bad for you that that's not enough to catch me!"

"You're not making this easy for yourself!"

"No...I'm not making it easy for you, Phantom!"

Once again, Danny was about to chase after her, only to suddenly trip over his own feet. Felicia didn't know what happened, but that came with her powers. Altering the probability field had that random aftereffect.

Still, he was more fun the spider, right now.

Like clockwork, Danny Phantom caught up once again. And, like before, with charm and reflexes, Black Cat came close, looked the boy in the eye, and glowed her eyes. This time a flock of pigeons came between them, giving the thief enough time to hide in an abandoned building. She looked out to see the ghost boy fly around before disappearing.

Managed to lose him," Black Cat said, pleased before she pouted. "Pity, it was actually starting to get a little fun, playing with him."

"Then how about we keep on playing?" Danny quipped, appearing in front of her.

Black Cat saw him and still dared to smirk.

"I'll give you this much, you don't give up easily. I didn't think you'd last this long," Black Cat said, closing in to give another dose of bad luck.

"There is a lot about me that you don't know," Danny shot back, and Black Cat smirked once again.

"Maybe I know more about you than you think," Black Cat said, wondering if she should resort to blackmail now. No. It was too much fun tossing him around back and forth. Maybe she would go for one more round.

"Well, I figured more about you."

"And what's that?" the thief asked. She didn't like the sound of that. Playful she is, but not careless. She took a few steps back, already formulating an escape plan for herself just in case.

"You act like a common thief, but there is something about you that isn't natural."

"I'll tell you this. There's absolutely nothing about me that is common."

"All the times you escaped. It's because something bad happened to me in order to give you a chance to get away. That's your power, you give bad luck to others."

Black Cat mockingly applauded him, but she was a bit impressed.

"Congratulations, Phantom, you figured that out a lot sooner than the last would-be hero that tried to catch me," She said coyly.

"I'll have you know, this isn't the first time I had to deal with a bad guy who uses bad luck as a weapon."

Danny took a stance, something his opponent was anticipating.

"Well, you haven't had to deal with MY kind of bad luck before," Black Cat said as her eyes started to glow.

However, Danny closed his eyes, quickly produced a lot of ice to surrounded the area, and right in front of the thief, he used his powers to create enough ice to construct a makeshift mirror. It wasn't perfect craftsmanship, but good enough for Black Cat to see her own reflection, and into her own glowing eyes.

"AH!" Black Cat exclaimed in horror.

"YES!" Danny said as he approached her.

Black Cat, due to being induced by her own bad luck, tripped over an ancient footstool that was on the ground.

"NOT AGAIN!" She shouted.

"Alright, Kitty Cat, time to go to the shelter."

"It's Black Cat!" She hissed with a kick, though Danny didn't feel much. Determined, the thief did another bad flip and ran up the ancient stairs of the abandoned building. She had made it to the roof when the boy had floated behind her.

"You know, I could have easily freeze you, but I don't like using my powers to attack humans unless they leave me no choice."

"Don't underestimate me, no man can catch the Black Cat so easily!" Felicia hissed, flexing her finger triggering claws to extend. The sudden change of demeanor threw the boy off, giving her time to escape.

Black Cat immediately pulled out a grappling hook and managed to grab a nearby building and swung away. Only for the cable to break while she was still several stories up in the air.

The kitten screamed as she found herself falling to the ground, unable to believe this. She still had some bad luck with her. The thief saw herself falling and braced for impact. Except she didn't feel any concrete or pain.

After moments of muttering, the girl; opened her eyes and saw that she was in the arms of the same white-haired ghost kid that has been chasing her all afternoon.

"Phantom?" Black Cat said in surprise and accidentally looked into his own green eyes, without her powers. Whatever Danny said next was ignored as she still held on to him, and couldn't help but notice some muscle tone underneath the hazmat.

After landing in a nearby alley, Black Cat took the time to flirt a bit. The boy wasn't half bad, ghost, human, or whatever he was. He was something...more, just like her. Now she could let the hero leave empty-handed, and she wasn't going to jail, so she tossed the bag to him. The client can wait for the jewels another time.

"Consider this my way of saying thanks for saving me earlier," Black Cat said to the ghost boy. He looked into the bag and checked to see all stolen items accounted for. For the first time, the boy didn't look to her with contempt.

"Hey, don't be so surprised. I don't like leaving debts."

That's when Danny sent her a smirk to the girl's surprise.

Well now, looks like the boy can do more than scowl. Felicia thought as she heard him ask: "I take it that the chances of you going to the police is what?"

"Sorry, not happening. Baby steps, Phantom."

The ghost boy would have responded, but a blue wisp had left his mouth, to the confusion of the girl. She would have asked about it, but an incoming missile Answered her thoughts as she the boy dodged.

Looking up, Black Cat saw a large metal ghost with a flaming mohawk with matching goatee.

"Friend of yours?" Black Cat asked sarcastically.

"That's Skulker, wants to hunt me down. Don't move or else," Danny warned her, and he went to deal with the large, metallic ghost.

The tone in his voice gave the girl chills.

Hmmm...strong, not bad looking, with a good personality. Plus, he can keep up. Felicia thought as she watched the fight. Also, he did save me and shows me a good time...I think he deserves more.

The cat thief climbed up the building where she picked up a brick and hit the hunter in the back of his head.

"Who dares!?" Skulker shouted as he turned around. Black Cat took this opportunity to leap up and hold onto him.

"I do," Black Cat said as her eyes glowed, and Skulker made the mistake of looking into them.

Her good deed for the day done, the girl jumped into Danny's arms. The boy had a smirk as he took her back to the alley.

"That's enough! you both are done for!" Skulker shouted as he pulled out another missile and aimed at them. Danny did nothing but leaned on the wall. He focused on the ghostly foe.

The mistake had just started shorting out, and electricity started leaking out As the power surge traveled to the rest of the mechanical suit.

"WHAT THE HECK?" Skulker exclaimed in horror, while Black Cat looked pleased now.

"Sorry bub, but no one likes a third wheel," Black Cat quipped as Skulker's malfunctioning suit exploded, leaving a little green blob knocked cold. Danny took advantage of this and sucked him inside the thermos.

Once he was done, he looked at the girl in confusion.

"Like I said, I don't like leaving debts."

Maybe this Black Cat isn't as naughty as she appears to be," Danny replied with a smirk.

My my. Felicia thought with her own smirk.

"Enough to be left off with a warning?" She asked with fluttered eyelashes.

Danny thought about this, considered this, and sighed, unable to believe he is about to do this...

"I figured there was a catch. Fine, since you did help me beat Skulker, I'll let you go with a warning. But, if I ever catch you trying to steal around here ever again, you will be arrested," Danny said with a serious look while the cat theme thief sent him a smirk.

"Oh, really? And after how much we bonded today?" she teased. But the ghost boy kept staring.

"Don't worry, I'll be leaving town soon anyway."

"Well, I better return this to the museum before they see me with it and blame me," Danny said about to take off.

But before he took off, Black Cat called out to him as she walked over.

Danny... It was the only thing flooding Felicia's mind as the white-haired thief leaned forward, sharing a kiss with the ghost boy.

Danny...

Black Cat deepened the kiss as she pushed the boy into a wall only to part ways with him shortly after, and directing him back to their actual date. She wanted a proper finish. But before leaving the girl teased...

"Don't get the wrong idea, Phantom. The first one is free, but if you want any more, you're gonna have to work for it."

After the fight with Skulker, things had resumed as a regular date, but now the not so normal girl was more than interested in her not so normal guy. She wanted him.

Him. A boy who could appreciate her beauty but, at the same time, resist her charm. He looked past the looks and actually wanted to know her. He was mature for his age. And his alter ego? Well, the look in his eyes, gentle but strong with a fierce gaze like a lion.

By the end of the date, she wanted to kiss him, despite it supposedly being a rule to not do so on the first date. Besides, she had to take off the track she placed on him back at Nasty Burger.

The night had ended, and the blonde girl went home and logged on to rate the ghost boy.

A perfect ten.

Days went by as the girl went about her business. Dates came, but none could hold a candle to the ghost boy. Clients came and called, but there was only one she wanted to hear. And that occurred later.

Felicia had logged on to see the two had matched. She was so excited upon seeing the news, the girl didn't even mind the fact that the spider caught her that day. The escape from the cops was worth it. As was the whole affair.

Within the next few days, Felicia found herself again walking the streets of Amity, down to a particular cafe. Only this time, she didn't use the rooftops, though she did take a cab.

She found herself in front of Cafe De Fleur, seeing a black-haired boy with a bouquet of flowers in his hand. Ready for their second date.

Chapter Text

Danny Fenton rapidly tapped his foot , wiping his sweaty hands on his jeans while waiting outside Cafe de Fleur. Every few seconds, the lone rose in his hand was inspected. He was careful not to be pricked by the thorns.

Today had to be perfect. Felicia Hardy was a one in a million girl that, under average high school hierarchy, would be out of his league. She was the kind of girl guys like him could only dream about.

Yet she chose him for a second date.

Felicia Hardy, a girl who's beauty had eclipsed the boy's previous crush Paulina, but also had personality with intelligence, focus, kindness, and probably more, chose him, the guy who was the lowest on the social totem pole.

"Okay Fenton, you got this." Danny took a slow, deep breath, straightening his body as he appeared alert. His hair and clothes were neat while his breath did not stink. All good signs, yet his excitement was unquellable.

He glanced at his phone and saw the time near for his date.

"You just have to not mess up this date with a totally hot and amazing girl, who's way out of your league," Danny whispered in failed attempts at confidence. Only after a moment of awkward silence did the boy enter the restaurant.

The maitre'd recognized the boy from his many visits, greeting with a warm smile. "Mr. Fenton, how good to see you again. We have your table ready when you are," he said.

The ghost boy smiled. His frequent attendance during the special dating event did not go unnoticedby the staff, who expected him today. Crazy prepared or not, the respect was a joyful respite from the stress. He nodded to the well-dressed man, but wait for her first.

It would not be a long wait as the doors opened again, revealing a beautiful, blonde girl, spotlighting the attention of anyone nearby. Before her, a single red rose is handed by the blushing boy. Rythmic heartbeats came unheard from the ghsot boy.

Felicia accepted the rose, appreciating the flower with a dazzling smile. If not for the maitre'd, her beauty woupd have enticed Danny in place for hours.

Arriving af their table, the young halfa pulled out a chair for his date. No slip ups would be afforded for him, wanting everything perfect.

"Nice to see you still have manners," Felicia purred.

The young boy sported another blush. His heart could be felt beating faster from the compliment. For reasons he could not think about, she was even more beautiful than their last date.

However, talking came first. He could be a mesmerized, hormone-riddled teen later.

"I hope you didn't have any trouble coming here," Danny said. He mentally complained of how terrible that sounds. It was better in his head.

"It was worth it to be here with you."

He nervously clears his throat before speaking. It was amazing how only a few words could melt him like butter. "I'm-I'm really glad that you agreed to this." It was a struggle to keep an intact voice.

"I'm delighted that you asked me to come here." Felicia's smile made his heart skip a beat. It was no surprise, given how its flawlessness would make any dentist euphoric.

It was difficult to keep appearances neat as the boy knew his face was teetering towards a dopey expression.

"Ahem," Danny coughed a bit as he gathered his courage. The teenage boy began to confess his feelings. "Look…I…I have to be honest with you. I know that we haven't known each other very long…but I really like you…a lot."

The girl's smile widened as did her eyes. She could see his heart fluttering in plain. It was obvious to everyone, including the ghost boy.

"Is that so?" she replied coyly.

"Yes."

"You sure know how to make a girl feel like the luckiest in the world." Her smile softened, showing warmth. The last words echoing in her head.

Red cheeks darkened. Danny had been swallowing too much saliva and drained his tongue. Taking a small sip of cold water helped push back barely controlled hormones. Taking a deep breath, he braved forward, needng to confess his feeling before he got tongue tied.

"Look...I know that we haven't known each other very long, but…I think we have a connection. I can't lie. I've been out with a lot of girls since I joined the service, and while I did grow to care about many of them, you're the one who I couldn't stop thinking about the most." His words illicited a blush from his date. "I got some other girls who wanted me as their next date, but you're the one whom I want to be with here today."

"Really?" Felicia's voice hitched in tone. Was she excited as the boy?

Danny smiled and took a deep breath. More needed to be said, even if he ended up loking like a dork for it.

"I think you're amazing. You're so strong, smart, and so beautiful. I think we truly have something between us…something special. So…what…what I'm trying to say is…Felicia Hardy, will you please go out with me?"

It took everything to say those last words. What was supposed to be the simplest task turned more into an uphill fight.

The ghost boy could only watch Felicia's face in silence. Listening to a tune, sweat beaded on his forehead. That same smile he admired kept him guessing. The passing seconds felt like minutes until he finally heard an answer.

"Yes."

Danny was stun for a moment. Did he hear her right?

"Did...did you say yes?" He has to ask. This can not be a dream. He doesnt want it to be one. Somebody needed to pinch him.

"Does this answer your question?" Felicia leaned in, planting a kiss on his cheek.

Forget a pinch, Danny wanted another kiss on the cheek to doubel check. Still, Felicia Hardy, the girl who made the entire drowd at the Nasty Burger hold their breath, said yes. He had to be the luckiest guy in the world right now.

Felicia watched him with a smile, her now-boyfriend stunned. She was used to the effect, but for the first time this was wanted.

As they looked to one another, the waiter had come and brought their food, steak and lasagna, the same order as last time.

Glasses clinked in celebration and the meal was enjoy in bliss. Danny stole glances every now and then, still porcessing the beautiful girl across as his girlfriend.

The stares did not ho unnoticed as Felicia gave a funny look.

"Here," she said with a bite of the lasagna on her fork extended.

Danny blushed like the tomato sauce inside, unable to speak.

"Last time, you eyed my dish as I ate. So I think you deserve a bite."

"That was because I was memorized by your beauty," the boy blurted, blushing as his brain caught up with his mouth.

"So you don't want a bite?" Felicia's eyes teased, waving the tasty Italian morsel.

"You mean it?" Danny asked With an audible gulp

"Well, if you don't want to—"

"That's not what I meant!"

Felicia smiled, watching Danny open his mouth and slowly took a bite . The boy chewed slowly, his heartbeat was the only thing he heard as he enjoyed the taste of whole wheat pasta with the mix of bountiful flavors marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Yet despite the flavor, all eyes were on the blonde girl. Once done, she leaned over and wiped his mouth with her napkin, intensifying the blush. At this rate, the ghost boy would be cultivated into an over ripe tomato.

"Did you like it? Or were your eyes eating something else?" Felicia spoke a smooth tone, soft like silk.

Danny blushed, chuckled, decided to return the favor, sliced a piece of the steak. Silently, the bit hovered above Felicia's plate.

"You wanna? You don't have to if you don't want to," Danny said.

"Oh, I want to," she replied with a coy smile. Leaning in, the piece of steak was fed. It was silly, cute, and made the boy's blush burn on his face.

The boy needed to control his hormones. Icy blue eyes darted away, noticing the onlookers from nearby tables in a mix of jealousy and admiration.

"People are looking at us again."

"Ignore them," Felicia said, not caring, but she smiled as she placed her hand on his. She took a bite and chewed slowly as she savored the cooked meat with the taste of herbs, like rosemary, rubbed in.

"All that matters is you and me," she said sweetly after swallowing.

Danny smiled, wondering deep down how he got to be so lucky. The two finished their meal, paid, and continued outside, walking towards the park—a hot spot for couples at this time.

Walking on the treaded paths, nothing made Danny happier than holding hands with Felicia. His heart still danced rythmically, unable to control his mix of joy, love, anxiety and fear. Sweaty palms did nothing but mantally agitate, but the blonde girl did not seem to mind.

Yet, there was no such thing as perfection. Something the ghost boy learned when his ghost sense went off just a few steps after entering the park.

No! Now?! Of all times?! Danny thought, realizing that now he had to make up some lame excuse and—

"Need to use the restroom?" Felicia asked innocently. The blue wisp did not go unnoticed, yet she kept that to herself.

"Huh?" Danny stood there, stunned.

"You look like you needed to go. I get it. Just hurry back."

Danny was a little embarrassed but realized he now had an alibi. No time to look a gift horse in the mouth, he ran straight for the restrooms. A mental note now reminded to finish fast. Hopefully, it was just the Box Ghost.

Should I change and maybe have some fun? Felicia watched him fly out the stall. Naw. It'd ruin the date. This is too much fun already. Though...how do I spend the time?

Nearby, a beret-wearing boy rode on scooter, passing by Felicia on a bench. Stares were uncontrollable, keeping focus off the road, into a bush. "Smooth moves, Foley," Tucker groaned, getting up. "You just got a second chance, and you might be late because you were rubbernecking. I'm sure Velma will love to hear that."

The crash drew noise and attention. The laughter and pointing from most was ignored, but Felicia sat silent as she stared.

"Sorry about that," the techno-geek said as he picked up his scooter and rode away. "Just for the record, I might have a girlfriend soon."

The blonde girl nod in appreciation. Whoever the lucky girl was, if she ever saw the girl, the cat thief would have to remember to give the guy brownie points with her. That was a big if, though she did not know when was the better word.

Tucker left without a word, but his feat brought the spotlight nearby, redirected to Felicia as other saw her. Sitting on a bench alone, the basic signals of singleness. Boys swooped in with the witless endeavors. Some had also walked by or followed her and Danny along the way. Given his social status, many easily assumed they could steal the girl.

"Hey, babe! Wanna go out with a real man?" A random boy in a muscle asked.

"New to town? Need a tour guide?" This boy had an overeager look.

"You like music?" a random street performer asked. That was maybe a new one.

It was the typical drivel she had come accustomed to. At times all Felicia did was stealing art and breaking hearts, the latter more often than the former.

"Wanna see a movie together?" Another boy asked.

"No thanks, I am on a date with someone," Felicia always replied. Some would try to convince her with antics. Others were too stubborn, luckily a nearby police officer was around to put an end to some of the annoyances.

Some even needed a dose of bad luck or two before they would leave. It was only when Danny's fight with Johnny 13 came crashing at her feet did boys left her alone, along with everyone else who ran screaming. Even the nearby officer called for back-up.

Felicia couldn't help but roll her eyes at how quick they ran to save their own hides. Some men they proclaimed to be, but that was enough scoffing. The ghostly battle in front was exhilerating to watch, Especially seeing her new boyfriend fight off a biker ghost.

And winning. That was a plus in her books. She had too much faith in his abilities to think about Phantom losing. IF he did, then their last fight was pure luck, and she did not want that.

"Felicia?!" Phantom exclaimed as he saw her, only to backtrack. "—I mean, whomever you are uh...run!"

Felicia resisted the urge to giggle. Cute how he was worried, yet almost blew his cover. Not that she already didn't know.

However, the biker ghost, Johnny, soon saw her from his struggle. He eyed her lecherously like most boys she crossed paths with. She noticed in the corner of her eye that Danny looked furious at this creep's attempts to hit on her.

Summoning his shadow, Johnny walked over to the blonde beauty, adjusting his clothes and dusting himself off.

"Hey there, baby," he said with sultry eyes and a suave grin. "What's a cool cat like you doing here? By yourself?"

The last question had an edge to it, but the girl ignored him as she rolled her eyes. Still, this was not the normal boy who flirts with her, and she did have an idea while Danny was finishing off the shadow.

"Sorry, but I have a boyfriend. And right now, I'm waiting for him to be done with the restroom," Felicia said nonchalantly.

"Seriously!? What kind of guy is he!?"

"The kind worth waiting for," the girl purred.

With a barely fought back blush, Danny took the opportunity to capture the distraught and distracted Johnny, dispelling the unlucky ghost's shadow.

"My you work fast," the girl commented with her pearly whites in view. "Thank you for saving me, Phantom."

Uh, you're welcome..." Danny blushed as he replied in a bashful tone.

Felicia's smile widen. She is sure that she could handle that greasy weirdo, but still, it was kind of nice having a gentleman being chivalrous to defend a lady.

Danny Phantom stood there like a chicken with its head cut off. He had a nervous smile as he didn't want his girlfriend to discover his secret. She was brilliant and probably could see past the few traits that distinguished Fenton and Phantom apart, if not for other details.

"Well...now," Danny said in a heroic voice. "I-I believe everyone here is safe. Ha-ave a g-g-good Fe-male."

"You too, Phantom," Felicia giggled.

As he flew away to transform, the ghost boy made a mental note to tell Kitty everything when he can. Her wrath would add to Johnny's punishment, which meant more time in the Ghost Zone, running away.

After he finished his date.

"Felicia?" Danny called, running out from the bathroom. With feign ignorance, he looked around to see the damage he and Johnny racked up. "What happened?"

"Hey, Blue Eyes, you missed all the excitement." Felicia played dumb. Now is not the time to tell him that she knows. A cat has to play, and speaking of which. "But I guess that steak didn't agree with you. Or was the lasagna too much?"

Messing with the ghost boy was too cute. But she wanted to have fun with her boyfriend more.

As the two walked around the park, hand in hand, they tried to ignore the stares that they were getting again. Regrettably, taking a walk here may not been a bright idea, but they wanted somewhere peaceful. Other couples were seen doing the same thing, though some boys and girls did turn their heads.

However, the single ones were on the prowl, and the loudest guys made a few attempts at Felicia.

"Hey, babe! What are you doing with that loser?" came a voice from behind.

Danny groaned. He recognized the letterman jacket belonging to one of the football players from school. This boy was one of the nameless jocks whose name was forgotten. A fat, meathead party boy with a shade hat wore upside down like he was in a fraternity.

"Oh great," Danny groaned as the boy flexed a bit.

"You know this guy?" Felicia asked as the teen didn't know when to stop flirting.

"Yeah, he's a jock that goes to my school—"

"And isn't a loser," the jock butted in. Danny recalled his social status, pushed to the ground as the nameless jock attempted, to put it kindly, to be suave.

"Come on, babe. Don't you wanna feel some real muscles?" the jock asked flirtatiously with his arms.

Danny got up and ignored the idiot. It wasn't that he was weak, but his ghost form held more strength than his human half.

Felicia narrowed her eyes, she could almost gag at how shallow and disgusting this guy was being. Did he really think that she'd ditch her date for some meathead? It was obvious he did, but the blonde girl didn't want to know to what extent he might try.

How did Danny get any manners with such cavemen around? Felicia thought as she decided to show everyone who she wants. No bad luck was needed. The meathead was already unlucky in love. And she would bet his future did not look so bright either, but that was the way of jocks to many.

"I have all the muscle I want right here," Felicia said as she wrapped her arm around Danny's, making him smile. "So why don't you try your luck elsewhere."

The jock's jaw dropped at the not so subtle rejection, but Felicia paid no mind.

"Let's go," Felicia tugged at Danny. "I want to spend more time together before I have to go home."

The ghost boy complied with joy as they left the annoying jock. Some girls even laughed at the boy's face.

"Did I just get turned down? For Fenton!?" the boy asked as he shook his head. "Ohhh, he's gonna get it."

The couple once again continued with their date as they tried to ignore the still happening gawking states that they were getting, especially from guys. And not all of them were of shock.

"Hey, baby! Drop the loser and come hang with us!"

"Why's that hottie hanging with a geeky guy like him?"

"I think they're on a pity date."

"Wow...and I thought I wasn't popular in school," Danny deadpanned.

"Ignore them, they are just jealous..."Felicia said as she paid them no mind. This was the regular occurrence, and she had a feeling it would last for a while. For her boyfriend, it wasn't, and soon he felt the need for something to drink. Despite the fact, it was a terrible idea to stress eat.

"I'm gonna go get something to drink, you want something?" Danny asked.

"See if you can get some birch beer," Felicia said.

"Okay..."Danny said as he went to the nearby vending machine.

Just then, a tall guy with slick back hair and trendy clothes. He had posture that brimmed with confidence, making it clear to Felicia that he wasn't some random player.

"Hey there, Hot Stuff," He said with an incredible sense of overconfidence. It was so thick with it, the girl swore she could cut a knife through it.

Felicia paid no mind to him as she waited for Danny. She could feel the guy as he leaned in.

"Come on, babe, why don't you ditch the loser and come with someone who actually knows how to have a fun time."

Felicia gave the boy an ice-cold expression. She had come to spend time with the one guy that was worth her time and was tired of being seen as a piece of meat.

"He's not a loser. He happens to be my boyfriend, and he has better manners than you do," She said with icy sternness.

But the boy didn't take no for an answer. He gave a cocky smile as he wrapped his arm around her waist. Now, Felicia knew patience, but this boy had now crossed a line. Turning to the boy, she gave him a smirk as he thought he got through to her. Then, Felicia's eyes quickly became cat-like and glowed, inducing this jerk, to put it mildly, with her own brand of bad luck.

Soon a nearby light pole creaked before it collapsed on a nearby tree, spilling the acorns stored inside into the jock's clothes. Within seconds, a swarm of squirrels rushed in the retrieve their stolen property.

"Aaaaaaaah!" The boy screamed, flailing his arms." "Get 'em out! Get 'em out!"

The boy ran fervently as he panicked through the streets. Danny blinked in surprise while Felicia giggled at the antic. The two decided to let it be. Th boy was tough. How much damage can squirrels do?

Danny soon arrived at the apartment building where Felicia and her family were staying.

"I had a wonderful again," the blonde girl said as she leaned into the ghost boy. "We should do this again before I have to leave."

"Leaving soon?"

Dread filled Danny's head, but Felicia's smile gave a different impression.

"Not really, but who knows when mother will be called to work in another location.

"O-Oh," Danny said."

Besides, even if she has to go back to the New York branch, we can still see each other on weekends."

Danny heard this and smiled as Felicia returned with a sly smile of her own.

"Really?" he asked before he got a kiss on the cheek.

"Really, really."

Felicia then wrapped her arms around Danny as she kissed him straight on the lips, making his eyes double in size as Felicia pushed him against the wall and melted into the lip lock.

She's improved. Danny thought before he quickly melted into the kiss. But that doesn't mean she gets to take the lead.

The kiss was soft, but unlike the last few times, the ghost boy was not going to stand there. Grabbing the girl's arms, the ghost boy was now kissing back, almost matching the rhythm.

Danny! Felicia purred mentally.

Felicia! Danny cooed in his mind.

After a few moments, they parted, and the blonde girl with a blush walked up to the door as a dazed ghost boy didn't leave until she was gone.

"Wow..."

"See ya tomorrow, Blue Eyes," Felicia said with a wink as she disappeared into the complex.

"See ya tomorrow, Felicia."

The ghost boy walked with a skip in his step as he mentally celebrated the auspicious date. He had been so preoccupied with his happiness, he didn't notice glowing exit-green vultures watching from above from a safe distance.

Chapter Text

Vlad Masters a self-made man, worth millions, billions if you asked him. Through the accident that gave him ghost powers, the man achieved wealth and later political growth as mayor of Amity Park. This allowed easy access to whatever he desired, accumulating a collection kept to himself. If neither wit, charm, nor money fulfilled his ambitions, then it would be through subtle control or phantasmal means.

In this world, only a few desires were truly wanted: the love of Maddie Fenton and her son, Danny. That and the death of Jack Fenton, who caused the accident, but that priority had now been second fiddle to grander schemes since their reunion less than a year back.

Particularly in Danny's growth. To witness another ghost-human-hybrid, a sense of jubilation enveloped the man. Though the boy refusal to join him, experience and patience were his strong point in this game of psychology. Not to mention he overpowered Phantom regularly in a fair fight.

So when his vulture hence ghosts flew into his house this morning and told him about Danny Fenton and his incredibly attractive girlfriend, Felicia, and the birds used many adjectives to say how beautiful she was, the Vlad shook his head. He knew about the dating service, something he found hilarious as he was told to buy a lonely man cat or try online dating. To hear that this same boy is dating a girl he was delicious irony.

Or it would have been if not for the committee and their incessant babbling. Five minutes passed, irking him to no end.

"You must be joking. He actually found someone?" Vlad said.

"We're 2008 years old," said the lead vulture. "So when I say this girl looks like a supermodel from the latest teen magazine, you better believe it.

"And just how would you know about latest fashion magazines?"

"We read them! Look! What I'm saying is this girl should be flying higher than the ghost boy can reach." The other two vultures nodded in agreement rapidly.

Vlad took a deep breath as he sat down on a chair of embossed leather. "Well, now, I guess this means we may need to account for a possible new player in the game," he remarked with a wicked grin.

Of course, that didn't mean acting now, especially when there was another piece on the chess board. And as always, Danny never knew how to play chess, especially against a stronger opponent. Right now, time was on his side.

Sam made her return to Amity Park the most glorious moment of the summer, even in the early morning when the sun threatened the darkness of the night. Luggage was haphazardly thrown into her room, hitting the ground as the windows flung open.

"It's great to be home!" The goth yelled throughout the house with vigor. Taking in a deep breath, as if trying to absorb the dark and depressing space that is her room, home trully became where the heart is.

Europe was great, part of Sam particularly enjoyed seeing a couple of superheroes protecting Paris. But she coupd not relax there, unless her parents showed contempt. The Mansons had left Amity Park to get away from the craziness, yet the parents did not take the time to research what eccentricies coudl be found in their trip around the continent.

Nonetheless, the goth girl only wanted to spend time with friends. After all, being a teenager was mainly about socializing with one's friends at most.

Her phone displayed five thirty am. It would be at least another four to five hours till Danny and Tucker got up. Unless they were up all night capturing ghosts, but that wasn't worth the risk calling them. Either the boys wake up incoherent or distracted during a crucial moment in battle.

"Oh, man! Can the sun come up any faster!" Sam paused to blink. "Wow...there are some words I never thought I'd say."

Tucker Foley was bored. Too bored for any day of Summer vacation. His best friend had found a perfect match while his own girlfriend, Velma, was still on a cross-country trip with her friends, solving mysteries. He had yet to meet Felicia, but from the way Danny's always soared to cloud nine had meant something he felt nerds like him could only dream about.

"This bites," Tucker muttered to himself on his way to Fenton Works. Only a few blocks away, he turned the corner when a familiar voice, one he hadn't heard all summer, echoed into his ears.

"Hey, Tucker!"

Turning around, Sam's black hair almost shined in the sunlight unironically. He waved with a smile, happy to see his other best friend after a month. "When did you get back? I thought You were still in Europe!"

"We managed to get back this morning," Sam replied. The joy in her voice radiated, an emotion willing shared on rare occasion. Pulling the boy into a hug, if the girl had not spent the last month without seeing him, the techno-geek would've been shocked. But he returned the rare gesture. "Sorry for the surprise. I didn't call since I wanted to surprise you and Danny. Where is he, anyway?"

Tucker paused couldn't believe that he forgot that while the goth girl was forcefully vacationed in Europe for most of the summer and unaware of his and Danny's experience at You+Me=Love!, specifically how the both boys now had girlfriends.

And how Sam could be jealous with a capital J.

"Well, come on, let's go find him. This is my first day back, and I seriously just want to forget it all with my two friends!" Sam said. She grabbed his shirt and ran towards Fenton Works.

Tucker thought in dismay as he realized the potential chain reaction Sam will have when she find outs. More importantly, the part where the goth's wrath is aimed at him.

Fenton Work's sign dangled overhead like a noose. For Tucker, each step felt like walking onto a spike, with no shoes on. After a grueling few seconds, Sam rang the doorbell, and the figure of Jazz answered.

"Hey, Sam. You're back already? Looking for Danny?" Jazz answered swiftly.

"Duh," Sam snarked.

"You really missed everyone, huh? Well, sorry to say, but he left earlier for a date."

Jazz's words shattered Sam's rare happiness. The joy flew away like a record player halted with a scratch, and launched its merry musical disc at the wall. Whatever emotional pieces remained laid scattered on a mental floor.

"I'm sorry? What did you say? A date? With who?"

"His girlfriend," Jazz replied bluntly, watching as jealousy fumed out of the goth with every breath. It was practically breathable, but fortunately, not contagious.

"His...girlfriend?" Sam said. "I see...so he got back together with Valerie?"

Jazz shook her head. "No, not Valerie. Someone named Felicia." She eyed Tucker who sweated bullets.

Sam breathed deeply, struggling to answer. "So...where are they?"

Danny and Felicia had just met up for their date: another light lunch at the Nasty Burger before enjoying some time at the museum, mall, and maybe catch a movie.

The Nasty Burger's sign lit dimly in the daylight. Usually, Felicia wasn't much for places like this, but she loved a good milkshake. And the memories made here were priceless. Entering, the couple didn't notice a jock spitting out his drink as the blonde beauty dazed everyone inside.

Almost immediately, A number punched into his phone. "Dude! You're not gonna believe who's at the Nasty Burger!" he said.

Just like the last time, Every pair of eyes stared at Felicia, filled with hearts. Most of the guys gave Fenton jealous looks or smirks in disbelief. Neither teen liked this attention, but they knew this would be par for the course. Danny had grown out of the sway and temptation of popularity, his girlfriend was tired of being seen as a Greek statue on display, and she knew which kind the guys wanted to see.

"You gotta be kidding me?! That's her boyfriend?!"

"What does she see in him?"

"He's gotta be rich like Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark rich," another dude said jealously "it's the only explanation."

"The Fenton's no way!"

"Not again," Danny groaned. Part of him wondered why this time would be different. Maybe it was just hope or some delusion that people wouldn't say to much, but that was just wishful thinking. Plus, normally no one was going to the Nasty Burger at this time. Everyone usually hung out by the beach, park, theater, or even arcade.

But that was proved instantly wrong as swarms of boys began to stand from their seats.

Felicia ignored them and kept her attention on Danny. Drooling boys were a dime a dozen, but her ghost boy was priceless.

"Come on, let's just get the milkshakes and see the museum," Felicia said, guiding them to the counter for a quick order.

Like last time, Valerie was at the register. And just the same, she gasped at the sight of Felicia. "You again?" Valerie had not realized she said that out loud until her pointed finger jutted into her field of vision. Calming herself, professional courtesy forced a smile to hide her heart. Though the emotions were already expressed.

"I like the milkshakes here," Felicia purred..

"Uh, I'll have the usual, Val," Danny said. He watched as Valerie optically threw daggers at him. he was going to have to explain things later, preferably without potentially getting hurt.

A catty smirk taunted the cashier as orders were taken, but it did not stop the dirty looks. The kitten was able to pick up bits and pieces from how her boyfriend and the cashier interacted. While not a full read, whatever history happened between them widened a smile at some potential fun.

Once they got their milkshakes, they were going to their booth, but the whispering and comments got louder.

"What does he have that I don't?" a guy in a hoodie said in disbelief.

"That loser doesn't even play sports!" A jealous jock said.

"That guy has to be a god amongst men to land a hottie like that," another guy muttered.

"She's gorgeous!" a nerd said as he continued to drool over Felicia, joining the ranks of the rest of the single boys.

The ghost boy sipped his drink, believing the worst to be over. The universe proved him wrong as they sat down with doors slammed open.

"Fenton!" Yelled a voice, leading a pack of jocks. The floors were littered with letterman jackets in seconds, closing in on the ghost boy and kitten.

"Where is he?" Sam said to herself. She and Tucker searched every teen hangout they knew after Jazz explained she had no idea where her brother is. The sister had not even met Felicia yet, either. she tried calling Danny but got no reply.

Tucker mainly came to make sure his friend never finds out he was the cause of Danny's girlfriend. Even if he didn't have a say in his choice.

Arriving at the Nasty Burger, they saw no Danny, but a crowd blocking the entrance. The Casper High football team walled off any way in, fencing the boys pushing and shoving inside. They recognized someone, Mikey, carrying a camera.

"I still can't believe it," One of the guys said.

"Hey, let me through!"

"I wanna peek!"

"You think she's as hot as they say?"

"At first, I thought it might have been a pity date, but I'm starting to think last night was for real," A jock said in disbelief and envy.

"What's his secret!?" another guy said, sounding jealous.

The boys were ravenous as they clawed past each other in a mess of a fight. Hormones turned them into beasts, not that they looked different to their peers. Sam would describe the scene as muddy waters of anger, something out of the Divine Comedy.

"What the heck is going on? Did I miss something?" Sam asked no one except probably Tucker, who was just as confused.

Powering through, they weaved their way past the flock of boys. Past the makeshift mosh pit, the two managed a glance of Danny and Dash. Sam squinted her eyes to try and see the third person, but the jock blocked her view.

"Alright, Fentoast," the quarterback said with anger and expectation. "I'm gonna give you the chance to get up and go away, so I can get to know the hottie here."

Leaning into the ghost boy as he pointed, Dash allowed Sam to get a good look at Felicia, who's smile had the boys swooning. Except for the ones who listened to the lead jock.

Sam did not know who this girl was, but instantly knew she did not like her. Stuck in the crowd, she could wonder if this girl is Felicia.

"Hey, wait a minute," one of the boys protested. "How come you get to talk to her? Maybe someone else can."

Everyone in the horde agreed as they stared at Dash. The quarterback put down Fenton and glared back. Low intelligence or not, running away would have harmed his pride and reputation.

"You think you can take me!? Bring it!" Dash taunted

Toxic masculinity puffed out as fists flew, but everyone jumped Dash. Typically he would've had the support of his fellow jocks, but they wanted to talk to Felicia too. It was every man for himself as the rest began taping the event to post on the internet.

Danny and Felicia had gone under the table and crowd as they dodged the mob. A nervous smile formed on the ghost boy, soothed with a catty smirk. They carefully escaped the effects of the bar brawl, well more like burger brawl, and had made it out of the establishment just as the local authorities came to break things up.

Sam and Tucker, ejected from the burger joint, followed after them. The former scowled as she realized how much had changed in a month, and it tore her up. Sprinting at full speed closed the distance a few blocks away.

"Danny!" Sam cried out. That got the ghost boy's attention, who stopped and turned around.

"Sam? Sam! You're back!" Danny, surprised to see his other best friend, smiled after not seeing her for a month. "I thought you were in Europe."

"I just got back this morning. I met Tucker, but when we got to your place, you were gone," the goth replied as she eyed the back of the blonde girl. "I take it you were...busy?"

Felicia twirled around, flipping her hair as her green eyes looked at the two. Jaws dropped, minds blurred, and all sentences broke into fragments for a long second.

"Wow..." Tucker said, not able to help it

"I had the same reaction," Danny chuckled.

"Now, now, better close those mouths before you all catch flies," Felicia teased.

Tucker closed his mouth immediately. He still blushed, but soon recognized Felicia from last night at the park. Part of him tried to make sense of this scenario as his best friend is dating a teenage supermodel.

Sam snapped out of her stupor. Now red with rage, she wanted answers, now. There was now way Danny, her best friend, the boy she knew for years, was dating some bi-londe girl that seemingly came out of nowhere.

"Danny, I'm happy to see you," she said through gritted teeth. "And your new...friend too."

The air stagnated, hanging words as the goth's glare gauged everyone's reactions. But before any answers Dash yelled at the top of his lungs, having evaded the police to chase after Fenton and Felicia. Being upstaged by everyone on the football team fueled the rage that would be redirected at Danny.

"Hey!" Dash yelled. "We're not done here! Fenton! How dare you score a mega hottie like that!"

"Dash, will you beat it!" Danny droned, not in the mood for this.

"Not until you know your place. Hotties belong to guys like me," the jock replied with a cocky smile when he turned to the blonde beauty.

"I thought I told you to leave us alone, Behemoth," Felicia rebuffed the jock, much to Sam and Tucker's surprise. "Like I said, I like Danny a lot more than you."

Dash wanted to "charm" her, but the incoming police sirens scared him off. Making himself more suspicious, the boy ran down the street as the car drove by, glancing at the driver and drawing their attention.

Felicia watched as the jock turned a corner, drawing the officer on his trail as the car followed. The catharsis feeling of seeing the quarterback hauled to jail would be estatic, but a loud ahem drew her back to Danny's friends.

"Danny, you didn't answer me. Who is she?" Sam pointed at Felicia with a thumb.

Felicia could see the jealousy oozing off of Sam while the ghost boy remained oblivious to her heart. To see him answer almost innocently could be considered a mystery as explanations followed.

"Yep, I suppose an introduction is in order. Felicia, these are Sam and Tucker, my best friends. Guy, I would like you to meet Felicia," Danny said.

"Felicia, Felicia Hardy. Charmed," Felicia waved.

"Likewise," Sam replied. Her eye now twitched, replacing the gritting teeth. She looked less axe crazy, but could still kill with her facial expression. Slowly her hand extended, gripping the now handshake from the blonde girl. Despite anger circulating in her veins, the goth's grip could not squeeze the delicate hand it held. In fact, this new girl was reversing standards, putting the gloomy girl in a death grip.

Tucker winced as he watched. This display was similar to something he saw in an animal documentary once. Yet, despite everything, Danny tried to intervene and mediate things.

"Sam listen," the ghost boy started, but the girl didn't divert her attention. "I met Felicia here at a dating service-"

The boy's voice blurred into the background as the goth girl turned her head in a cold, machine-like manner. Nobody had ever seen her act like this before. Tucker, fearing the worst when he realized the potential pain that could be inflicted on him when Sam hears how he convinced his friend to join the service.

Though in retrospect, he should have seen this coming.

Danny was more freaked out and confused by the erratic behavior displayed by his friend. He had a feeling she wouldn't like Felicia, at first, but didn't think it could get this ugly.

"A. Dating. Service?" Sam spoke. She probably could've scared the ghosts away, well most of them.

"Y-yeah," Danny bravely replied. "Well...we were bored-"

"And you two thought it would be a good idea?"

"Why are you so mad?" Danny asked, clueless to why. "It was Tucker's idea!"

"Hey!" Tucker exclaimed, though fear shut his mouth as Sam's glare turned at him. Every brain cell in him was blaring alarms to run now and hope for the best. But that would only make things worse.

"Though really, I should be thanking you," Danny's words added to Tucker's internal horror. "I mean if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have met Felicia."

"You don't have to thank me," Tucker replied. Sam's glare intensified. "Really, you don't."

The boys would say more, but their tongues were most likely trying to cash in vacation days. However, Felicia, watching the whole ideal, was not enjoying how the goth was domineering things. Or rather did not like how Danny was not paying attention to her.

"I thought it was a great idea," Felicia said as she walked over and linked arms with Danny. Sam's steely gaze turned to astonishment as she watched. "I'm glad to have met this guy."

I one motion, she gave the ghost boy a kiss on the cheek before she gave back a predatory's eye to the goth girl.

Sam couldn't believe what was going on. Repeating the facts in her head, Sam cycled through how she came back to see her best friends had signed into a dating service, how Danny Fenton, her not-so-secret-to-everyone-but-him crush was being kissed by another girl. And she was a beautiful girl who could pass for an adult, with blonde hair and a fantastic figure. This sort of thing wasn't supposed to happen except in fantasy.

Felicia could easily read Sam's thoughts. Though the goth girl held a torch for the boy, the kitten and ghost boy were dating now, and she wasn't going to let him go.

After all, all's fair in love and war.

"Hey, Danny?" the blonde girl cooed as once again, the boy was like putty in her hands.

Sam watched in horror as Danny blushed with a longing face. She had seen that look, but from where?

"Come on, Blue Eyes. I wanna get to the museum before they close," Felicia said as she started walking.

"Coming...Felicia," Danny cooed. But before he left, managed to say that he could hang out to his best friend tomorrow. His dopey smile tore through the goth's heart as he left.

Sam and Tucker soaked in everything that had happened within minutes. The goth felt a stone was in her stomach as she watched the ghost boy walk away hand in hand with another girl. One who looked like she jumped out of a comic book. She wanted to compare her to Paulina, but Felicia blew Paulina out of the water.

Drop dead gorgeous and kind, or at least to Danny, this was all too much. But still, there was something off about her. Especially with that face, the ghost boy sported.

But first the goth had to give her friend Tucker her opinion on the matter of blind dating, and taking your friend to the same service. Which came in the form of a sucker punch to his face.

Tucker was glad his glasses didn't break, but to pinpoint how much the girl could throw a punch:

"AHHHHHH!" the techno-geek's yell was heard past the horizon to distant farmers outside the boundaries of Amity Park.

Felicia checked her phone, it was her previous client. He wanted the Jewels of Baset still. Last time Phantom interfered, and she had to give them back. Well, she didn't have to, but Danny did save her. However, the client was furious and demanded she go again. He was even willing to pay more, though stated only if she retrieved them this time.

"Hmmm. What to do," Felicia hummed to herself as she slipped off her outfit for her fitting charcoal catsuit. She had zipped up and put on the jacket when she looked to the mirror.

"I could just go and steal them, but where would the fun be?"

She had adjusted the wig and activated the safety features to make sure it stays on during acrobatics.

She had an idea on how to make her heist even more challenging, by "inviting" a cute little spook who had a special place in her heart.

That is ALWAYS fun.

"But," she said, looking sad. "only ghosts appear on his radar."

"BEWARE!" Was suddenly shouted as the mask was attached. Felicia looked and saw something that made her smirk.

"Unless..."

Danny had just laid down for a long evening's nap. With dances of a particularly beautiful girl in his head, until his friend Sam appeared as well. That was a terrible way to wake up.

"Huh? Weird," He whispered, wondering where that came from.

But his thoughts were interrupted when his ghost sense went off.

"Great," he groaned with displeasure. "another working night."

Danny quickly changed forms and flew outside to find whoever it is, stop them, and then maybe get some sleep.

"Alright! Who's out here, this time?" the ghostly hero called out.

Darkness was there and nothing more, save for an annoying ghost that never understood the concept of being outmatched, The Box Ghost.

"Haha! I finally got you!" the master of squares shouted in victory. "And since you are already emptied of your useless confines, you are now mine forever! Hahahahaha!"

Gloating loudly in the air, Danny floated behind the hammy...foe and tapped his shoulder.

"Who dares disturb the Box Ghost in his glorious victory!?"

Danny Phantom blinked with dead eyes at the spirit, not showing any speck of respect to fear. To be honest, he was bored as this ghost had always popped up whenever. his parents chase him, but it was starting to seem more out of fun that seeing him as a threat. With the Box Ghost, you'd have to be a complete chicken to be afraid of him. Sadly, that was true for most folks with ghosts, especially in Amity Park.

"Okay, Box Ghost, you think you can keep it down. Some of us are trying to sleep."

The Box Ghost huffed at that, insulted, before bellowing, "You dare to disrespect the Box-"

The Blue Ghost didn't even get to finish as Danny rolled his eyes and sucked the spirit into the thermos to make this quick, so he can get back to sleep.

However, the sound of multiple alarms going of told him that he would have to wait on sleeping.

"Oh man, now what?" Danny said as he went to go take care of it. Sleep was necessary, but the town's safety had priority.

Soaring to the scene, the ghostly hero noticed a slim figure jumping across rooftops, breaking into stores with no tact. He saw the thief did nothing but break the glass, run inside, and come back out in repetition.

Danny, as the unofficial hero, despite being used for tourism, decided he wouldn't let this go on any longer and flew in front of the mystery thief.

"Alright, buddy, time to end your little steal and run," Phantom said as he illuminated the nightly setting with a ghostly light. Though what came next was an unexpected surprise, to him, that is.

He didn't see a large, thuggish man or anything the sort of criminal would've appeared. He instead saw the familiar figure of Black Cat, in all her alluring charm.

"Hello, Danny," she purred, and she looked at him with sultry eyes.