The rise of the White Widow

"We won't let you down"

In the upcoming days, I am contemplating the prospect of joining the Avengers. The idea of utilising my training for a noble cause rather than a bad one appeals to me greatly. However, I am struggling with the timing of this offer, as it coincides with the recent passing of Hayden, which has left me emotionally drained and uncertain.

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As I sit in a daze, my gaze fixated on the wall in front of me, Tony's sudden gesture jars me back to reality. I shake my head, clearing my mind, and turn to face him. He teases me with a lighthearted quip about my intense focus on the wall, eliciting a smile from me before I return to the task at hand.

I'm working on a school project, sketching away as I try to distract myself from the pain of losing Hayden. Nat had called the school to explain my absence and the teachers had graciously granted me an extension on my assignments. I now have an additional week to complete my work, which provides a welcome distraction for my troubled mind.

Despite the sadness that lingers within me, I try to focus on the task at hand. By immersing myself in my artwork, I can temporarily escape the pain and heartache that threaten to overwhelm me. It's a coping mechanism, a way to keep my mind occupied and prevent myself from dwelling on the loss of Hayden.

As I focus on my drawing, lost in my thoughts, Yelena approaches me half an hour later. Her thick Russian accent is more pronounced than my own, and I look up to see her assessing my artwork.

"How's it going?" she inquires.

"It's good. I'm almost finished," I reply, holding up the drawing of Hayden.

My art project revolves around the theme of loss and mental health, a way for me to channel my feelings and attempt to heal.

Suddenly, Yelena surprises me by asking if I want to go shopping. I stop drawing and gaze up at her, surprised by her sudden interest in spending time with me. She hasn't really talked to me much since the first time we met, and her absence has been notable.

"Sure," I smile, feeling a glimmer of excitement at the prospect of a distraction from my grief.

Yelena and I walk out of the tower and make our way towards the mall. As we stroll through the crowded streets, I can't help but feel grateful for Yelena's company. Her presence is a welcome distraction from the pain of losing Hayden.

As we enter the mall, I take in the sights and sounds around me. The hustle and bustle of people going about their day-to-day lives is a stark contrast to the stillness and sorrow that have consumed me since Hayden's passing. I try to push the thoughts away and focus on enjoying the moment.

Yelena leads the way, and we soon find ourselves in a clothing store. She picks out a few items that catch her eye, and I browse the racks with her, trying on a few things myself. As I model a dress in front of the mirror, I can't help but notice the dark circles under my eyes and the way my hair falls limply around my face.

Yelena notices my expression and comes over to me. "Hey, are you okay?" she asks, her tone gentle.

I take a deep breath, trying to hold back the tears that threaten to spill over. "Yeah, I'm fine," I reply, forcing a smile.

Yelena looks at me skeptically for a moment before nodding. "Okay, if you say so," she says before turning back to the racks.

We continue shopping, and I gradually begin to relax in Yelena's company. As we leave the mall, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Spending time with Yelena has been a welcome distraction from the pain of losing Hayden, and I feel grateful for her unexpected kindness.

As we walk back towards the tower, Yelena breaks the silence. "I'm sorry if I overstepped earlier. I just thought you could use some company," she says, her voice soft.