"You're Right, Johnny. I Do Tend To Overthink Things Sometimes," She Admitted With A Sheepish Smile.

SHAY MITCHELL photographed for Tommy Hilfiger December 2023 campaign

With a serene expression, she joined Peyton on the floor, hugging her knees to her chest while she contemplated the advice Peyton had given. "You make a point," Mantis said softly, thinking about how much of her life had already been dictated by a man. She had vowed as part of her experience here that she would do what she wanted. "I do really like their donuts... especially their cheesecake donut. I have no clue where'd I'd find something like it." Her focus shifted to the cats and their discarded leashes. "Did you want me to calm them down for you?"

Peyton made a scrunched up face -- both in distaste at the whole catcalling situation and her actual cats who decided to mutiny against her apparently. She gave up on the cat leashes and looked up at her friend. "Or," she said, sitting crosslegged on the floor. "You could keep going to your favorite donut spot and ignore them. Give them like a big screw you." She shook her head, "Babycakes, if you let gross guys dictate where you go in life, you'll literally never go anywhere."

Amidst all the earthly wonders she'd experienced, Mantis found the most joy while partaking in the various playful activities the people had created, such as blowing bubbles. Her eyes sparkled with delight as she sent iridescent spheres floating into the air, each one catching the sunlight in a myriad of colors. "They're so pretty!" she cheered, offering the bottle of bubbles to the other. "Here, you want a turn? I even found a toy that blows bubbles for you. How neat is that?"

😄 for a happy starter for @wmximcffs

Sensing the confusion and fear in the air, Mantis focused her abilities, attempting to calm those around her, hoping to get them out of the crossfire. With delicate gestures and soothing words, she directed people to safety, her gentle touch providing a sense of reassurance amidst the turmoil. "Follow me, quickly, this way leads to the emergency exits. We must evacuate the premises immediately." After getting the small group she was escorting to the exit, Mantis turned back to the ballroom in search of more people to help. "Hey, are you okay?" she asked, coming up behind another guest. "Come on, we have to get you out of here, it's not safe."

@cxylers

Mantis had created the ultimate haven of fluffiness, she sat proudly surrounded by an array of plush cushions and soft blankets, hugging a teddy bear tightly to her chest. "Come join me in the fluffiness," she exclaimed, patting the cushion next to her. The room seemed to radiate with a serene charm, with plush toys adorning the space it added an extra touch of whimsy. "I've created a fluffy haven and it's quite delightful. Feel free to share in the coziness and tell me about your day! And look! I have snacks, too!"

🥰 for a fluffy starter for @j-stcrm

Mantis had gathered that the whistles and cheers from a bunch of construction workers while she was out for her walk earlier wasn't entirely meant as a friendly greeting although it seemed positive, and Peyton's reaction to the story only proved her assumption right. Still, she shook her head, although she appreciated the offer. "No, it's okay, but thank you. But that was what you call 'catcalling,' yes? I haven't experienced it yet... Can't say I enjoyed it."

“Wait, they said what to you?” Peyton asked, pulling a face. “Do you want me to take care of it?”

His enthusiasm was infectious, Mantis couldn't help but return his grin with one of her own, a sudden burst of excitement bubbling in her stomach. "I know how to defend myself, but I want to be able to prove myself in battle, should I ever need to." Most of her experience had all been in theory, she'd never actually faced a real battle but she was determined. That had to count for something. "I suppose that makes me fresh-faced. But I'm eager to learn."

Thor turned to his new student with a wide, beaming grin. "Friend! Welcome to training," he bellowed, clapping a hand on her shoulders. He remembered to be gentle with her, Jane always cautioned him to be careful with those smaller than himself. "I am always ready. Tell me, new friend, do you have much experience with the glory of battle? Or are you a fresh-faced warrior ripe for learning?" His grin hadn't faltered, not even once. "Either way, it is an honor to work with you. We will have a great deal of fun, I assure you!"

Mantis blinked, her large eyes widening with amusement as she tilted her head, considering the peculiar question. "Oh, well, I've always been told that I am quite small, actually," she replied with a serene smile, her delicate antennae twitching slightly. "But I believe we are exactly the size we are meant to be in this moment. Are you alright?"

"Am I small or are you just really big?" He asked the person in front of him. Honestly he wouldn't have been surprised either way. It wouldn't of been the first time he'd had a few to many drinks and ended up shrinking himself without even realizing.

Me flirting: Your aura is pretty.

Mantis was that much more excited when her enthusiasm was returned, looked up from the screen at Carol with a bright smile. "Screaming goat videos? I shall definitely explore those. Thank you for the suggestion, Carol Danvers," she replied, shaking Carol's hand with a gentle warmth. "I'm Mantis. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"Pause, rewind, and repeat babycakes, because that is the most adorable thing I've seen all day." Nevermind that it was only ten-thirty in the morning, that wasn't important. Carol flashed a grin to her newfound companion. "Apart from yourself, obviously. Carol Danvers," she said, extending her hand earnestly. "Also, if you need a switch-up, try the screaming goat videos. I found those to be very funny."