Chapter 17: Settling into a New Life
The cold air wrapped around them as Alex and Wanda stepped off the plane and into their new home. The town was just as beautiful as they had seen in the pictures—a place where snow blanketed the streets, where the buildings had a cozy charm, and where the people moved about their lives without the constant chaos of battle or war. It was peaceful, and for the first time in a long time, Alex felt like he could breathe.
Wanda clung to his arm, her crimson scarf fluttering in the wind as she took in the scenery. "It's perfect," she murmured, squeezing his hand.
Alex glanced at her, warmth filling his chest despite the freezing air. "Yeah, it is."
They found a small house on the outskirts of town—a simple but beautiful cabin with a view of the snow-covered hills. It wasn't a mansion, but it was theirs. Alex used his abilities to adjust the temperature inside so that it was always warm, ensuring Wanda wouldn't be uncomfortable.
For the first few days, they spent their time setting up their home. Alex wanted everything to be perfect for Wanda. He reinforced the cabin, brought in furniture, and even used his abilities to craft a stunning ice sculpture in their backyard—just to see Wanda's eyes light up.
But soon, reality set in.
They needed money.
Alex initially refused to let Wanda work. "You should just rest," he told her, frowning. "You've already been through so much. I'll handle everything."
Wanda raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "And what will I do all day? Sit here and stare at the walls while you work? I'd rather be doing something productive."
"But you'll get tired," Alex argued.
She scoffed. "I'm not some delicate flower, Alex. I fought Ultron, remember?"
Alex sighed, realizing there was no winning against Wanda once she had made up her mind. And deep down, he knew she was right. She would get bored staying home alone.
"Fine," he relented. "But we work together. I don't want us to be apart for long."
Wanda smiled victoriously. "Good. Now, let's find jobs."
Finding Work
The town wasn't large, but it had a handful of shops, cafes, and other small businesses. After asking around, they found two job opportunities.
Wanda got a job in a small bookstore. She loved reading, and the quiet atmosphere suited her. The store owner, an elderly woman named Margaret, took a liking to her immediately. Wanda spent her days surrounded by books, helping customers find their next favorite story. She especially enjoyed recommending books to children, and over time, the townspeople grew fond of her gentle and kind personality.
Alex managed to get a job as a security guard at a research facility. It was an easy job for him—monitoring security feeds, doing occasional patrols, and ensuring everything ran smoothly. The facility itself was nothing major, just a private lab working on small-scale projects, but it paid well, and it allowed him to stay out of the public eye. Plus, it gave him time to observe human behavior, something he still found fascinating.
A New Routine
Their days quickly fell into a comfortable rhythm.
In the mornings, Alex would wake up early, make coffee for Wanda, and walk her to work before heading to his own job.
During lunch breaks, he would sometimes stop by the bookstore just to see Wanda, pretending he needed a book when, in reality, he just wanted an excuse to be near her.
In the evenings, they would return home together, cook dinner, and talk about their day while sitting by the fireplace.
For the first time, Alex felt normal.
One night, as they sat together on the couch, Wanda leaned against him, her fingers tracing circles on his palm. "This is nice," she whispered.
Alex looked down at her. "What is?"
"This. Us. Living like normal people. No war, no battles. Just... peace."
Alex exhaled slowly, tightening his arm around her. "Yeah. I like it too."
But deep down, he knew it wouldn't last forever.
Even as they settled into their new life, Alex could feel it—the world wouldn't stay peaceful for long. Sooner or later, something would come knocking at their door.
And when it did, he would be ready.
For now, though, he held Wanda closer, allowing himself to enjoy the quiet while it lasted.
---
End of Chapter 17