KALEIDOSCOPE ━ WADE WILSON

CHAPTER THREE

PLAYLIST;
i. nightcall - kavinsky
ii. dangerous - big data ft. joywave
iii. criminal - fiona apple
iv. chasing cars - snow patrol
v. do i wanna know? - arctic monkeys
vi. mystery of love - sufjan stevens

-

The neon lights of Taco Tom's faded behind them as Ainoa and Deadpool stepped out into the cool night air.

"Well, Katana," Deadpool said, stretching dramatically, "this has been a delightful evening of chimichangas and cryptic backstories. Same time next week?"

Ainoa allowed herself a small smile. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. One night doesn't mean anything."

"Aww, you're breaking my heart here," He clutched his chest in mock pain. "And here I thought we had something special! What about our future mercenary power couple status?"

"In your dreams." She retorted. "You're ridiculous."

"Part of my charm," Dead winked through his mask. "So, what's next for you? More secret missions? Covert ops? Extreme knitting?"

"Wouldn't you like to know?" Ainoa smirked, a small laugh leaving her lips. "I think it's best if we parted ways. Though, I have to admit, it's been... interesting."

Deadpool placed a hand over his heart, "You wound me, doll. But fear not, our paths shall cross again. The universe demands it. Plus, I know where you get your chimichangas now."

"Right. Noted." Ainoa turned to walk away.

"Wait, wait!" Dead stopped her. He took out a napkin he'd stored in one of his multiple pockets. "Wrote this down for you while you were in the bathroom."

Ainoa took the napkin, seeing a phone number written on it.

"So, if you ever need backup, you know who to call. I'm like a Swiss knife, but with more guns and better jokes."

Ainoa snorted, "Alright. Thanks. I'll keep it in mind."

"Good, good." He nodded, his hands behind his back. "So... want me to walk you home? Maybe have this night end up in a torrid love affair?"

"I'll pass," Ainoa chuckled as she folded the napkin in her hands. "I'll see you around, Deadpool."

"It's Wade." Deadpool said as she was about to leave, "Wade Wilson."

Ainoa smiled slightly, nodding. "Alright. Goodnight, Wade Wilson."

-

The walk back to her apartment felt longer than usual. Her thoughts swirled around her recent unexpected encounter. Sharing a meal with him had been a different experience, one she hadn't had in some time. She wasn't used to letting her guard down around new people, not even a little.

The quiet of the city night wrapped around her as she navigated the dimly lit streets, before spotting her apartment complex. She entered the building, the familiar creak of the stairs grounding her thoughts.

As she unlocked the door, the scent of home—clean, simple, with a hint of the lavender oil Lucia favored—washed over her. She slipped off her shoes by the door, being careful to not cause any noise and wake her sister.