Chapter 13
By the next morning, news had already spread like wildfire about the mysterious figure known as the "Ghost Rider" racing through town and the nearest city. People speculated wildly, some assuming it was just another superhero or villain, while others hinted at the possibility of supernatural forces at play. The eerie, unexplained occurrences and the flame-wreathed bike left many pondering its origin. Was it a new hero or something darker? Some suspected that a supernatural aura was tied to the phenomenon.
Danny, however, was unaware of the chaos until he sat down for breakfast. As he sat at the table, he could hardly escape the buzzing conversation between his parents, who couldn't stop talking about the incident.
"You see, Danny, isn't your father cool?" Jack Fenton beamed with pride, his hands holding up the morning paper. The headline screamed, "Mysterious Ghost Rider Roams the Streets: Is This the Work of a Supernatural Force?" His father was thrilled not just for the sensationalism but because it meant that his expertise as a specialist was in demand. The mayor had even contracted him to investigate any potential clues surrounding the event.
"See, I'm not just some mad scientist. People are starting to recognize my brilliance," Jack continued, a grin plastered on his face as he puffed out his chest.
Despite the ridicule the Fentons received from ordinary people, especially considering their eccentricities, Danny knew that the elite and powerful had always known about the Fenton family's unique skills. Dragons, werewolves, vampires, ghosts—all these creatures and forces existed, albeit hidden beneath the surface of society. Jack and Maddie's work, although often seen as a joke by outsiders, was well-respected in the right circles.
Danny sat at the table, pushing his food around with his fork, trying to keep his thoughts from wandering too far. His parents, as usual, seemed oblivious to how strange their conversation was. He hadn't really taken an interest in their work before, but something about the whole Ghost Rider phenomenon seemed to catch his attention.
"If the Ghost Rider is real," Danny suddenly spoke up, catching his parents off guard, "Shouldn't you be careful? Are you sure about your safety?"
The words came out of Danny's mouth without him meaning to—he'd never expressed such concern before, let alone about his parents' work. Jack and Maddie both froze, looking at him in stunned silence. Danny had always been a kid more focused on his own world, uninterested in the dangerous or bizarre aspects of his parents' professional lives. His sudden concern caught them off guard.
"Dear, Danny's right. We should check up on our equipment before going out," Maddie said with a smile, her heart warming at the unexpected display of care from her son. It was a sign of growth, something that made her genuinely happy to witness. It seemed that her son was becoming more aware of the world around him—and the people who loved him.
"Come, eat more," Jack urged, happily passing more meat to Danny. Despite the rising costs of groceries due to Danny's growing appetite, the Fentons hadn't complained. They were just grateful to see their son growing stronger and healthier, and if it meant more food, they would gladly bear the expense.
Danny didn't say much as he dug into the meal. He noticed his parents' slight concern about the increased costs, but they never voiced it directly. They were just happy he was getting stronger—especially since the incidents involving his powers had only intensified as of late.