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CHAPTER XXVIII. Winters End
Elina walked down the bustling street with her head low, her hair now dyed a light caramel that shimmered softly in the sunlight. The oversized sunglasses she wore shielded her eyes, allowing her to blend in with the crowd. Her life, once shrouded in secrecy, had been laid bare for the world to see. Every chapter of her past-Budapest, Novosibirsk-had been exposed. What had once been whispered about in hushed tones was now public knowledge. There were no more secrets, only transparency.
But as much as the revelations had shaken her, Elina felt an unexpected lightness in her step. She was free, in a way she hadn't been before. With SHIELD no longer looming over her, the idea of a vacation-a true escape-had started to feel like more than just a distant dream. It was a reality she could reach out and grab.
She'd already talked things over with Xavier and Blake, about what they planned next. Blake was planning to visit her family in New Haven, ready to deal with her own family matters. Xavier, was considering a transfer to the FBI. Elina had her own plans, but first, there were a few loose ends she needed to tie up.
Her first stop was at Sam Wilson's place. She knocked on the door, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and calm. A moment later, the door swung open to reveal Celia, her expression shifting from surprise to a warm smile.
"Elina, hi! Sam's not here right now, but can I help you with something?" Celia asked, her voice friendly.
Elina reached into her pocket and pulled out the hair ties she had borrowed from Celia a while back. "I thought I should return these to you."
Celia took them with a chuckle, her eyes twinkling. "You really didn't have to, but thank you."
Elina shrugged, a small smile playing on her lips. "No problem at all. I should get going, though."
She started to turn away, but Celia called after her, stepping out of the house. "Hey, wait up!"
Elina paused and turned back, curious.
"I know we don't know each other that well," Celia began, her tone slightly hesitant but hopeful, "but if you're ever around, feel free to stop by. Maybe we could hang out?"
Elina's smile widened, a genuine warmth spreading through her. "I'd actually like that."
Celia's face lit up with a bright smile, and after a friendly wave, the two parted ways, each with a little more to look forward to.
Next on Elina's list was a visit she had been meaning to make for a while-a promise she needed to keep. She buzzed the door of a small, cozy house, lowering her sunglasses slightly as Susanna answered. The older woman greeted her with a smile that held something new and reassuring-acceptance.
"Hello, Miss Romanoff," Susanna said warmly, stepping aside to let Elina in while casting a quick glance down the street, as if to make sure they were alone.
"Susanna, hi. Look, I know what's been on the news, but-" Elina began, but Susanna cut her off with a gentle hand.
"I've never been a big fan of the news," Susanna said with a knowing smile. "Neither have the kids."
Before Elina could respond, Susanna called down the hallway, and moments later, Alyse came racing toward them. The little girl threw her arms around Elina in a tight hug, her excitement bubbling over.
"You made it on time!" Alyse exclaimed, her voice full of joy.
Elina laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Yeah, I did."
She reached into her pocket and pulled out two tickets, holding them out with a playful grin. "You know that fair you've been talking about?"
Alyse's eyes widened in disbelief, her whole face lighting up as she saw the tickets. "Really?"
Elina nodded, her heart swelling at the pure happiness radiating from the girl. "Really! Now go get ready-we've got a long day of rides ahead of us."
As Alyse ran off to get dressed, Elina felt a deep sense of contentment settle over her. Today was a day for good vibes, for new beginnings, and for the simple joys that made life worth living. She was ready to embrace it all.
