WESTVIEW

Episode 4: The Harvest Festival

Wanda Maximoff stood in front of her bathroom mirror, the soft glow of the morning sun filtering through the curtains, casting a warm light across her face. Today felt different; it was the day of the Westview Harvest Festival, a community celebration filled with laughter, games, and, of course, an array of delicious food. As she brushed her hair, she felt a flutter of excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension.

“Hey, honey, are you ready yet?” Vision called from the living room, his voice echoing slightly. “The festival starts in an hour!”

“I’m almost there!” Wanda replied, adding a final touch of lipstick. She admired her reflection—a simple yet beautiful dress, adorned with autumn leaves and a cozy cardigan that perfectly matched the season.

Once satisfied, she stepped out into the living room, where Vision was adjusting his own attire, a sharp-looking outfit that contrasted amusingly with his usual casual wear. “What do you think?” he asked, striking a pose. “Am I blending in well enough with the locals?”

Wanda giggled, unable to resist his earnestness. “You look fantastic! Just remember to keep that charming smile on; it’s your best feature.”

Vision smiled back, his synthetic eyes sparkling. “I will do my best.”

As they stepped outside, the vibrant sounds of Westview filled their ears—children laughing, neighbors chatting, and the tantalizing scent of baked goods wafting through the air. Wanda took a deep breath, feeling a wave of contentment wash over her. This was her home, and today promised to be filled with joy.

The town square was adorned with colorful decorations: hay bales, corn stalks, and an array of pumpkins displayed proudly, each one painted with cheerful faces. The atmosphere was alive with excitement as townsfolk set up booths for games, food stalls, and a stage for performances.

“Look over there!” Wanda pointed excitedly at a booth where kids were bobbing for apples. Laughter erupted from the group, echoing through the square. “I used to love that game when I was a kid!”

Vision watched the scene, a puzzled look on his face. “It seems like a rather inefficient way to acquire apples,” he remarked, tilting his head. “Surely, there are more effective methods.”

Wanda chuckled, nudging him playfully. “It’s all about the fun, Vision! It’s not just about getting the apples; it’s about the experience.”

“Ah, the experience,” he echoed, a slight grin forming on his lips. “I shall endeavor to embrace this ‘fun’ concept.”

As they wandered deeper into the festival, they passed a booth selling handmade crafts. Dottie, the cheerful cashier from the supermarket, was demonstrating how to create autumn-themed wreaths. “Wanda! Vision! Come join us!” she called, waving them over.

“Hey, Dottie! Those wreaths look amazing!” Wanda complimented, her eyes sparkling with delight.

“Thanks! I’ve been making them all week! Want to try? I could use some extra hands,” Dottie offered with a bright smile.

Vision looked at Wanda, his curiosity piqued. “Is this another form of ‘fun’?”

Wanda nodded enthusiastically. “Absolutely! It’ll be great.”

The trio gathered around the table as Dottie handed them supplies. “Alright, here’s how it works! Just grab some leaves, berries, and twine. Let’s create something beautiful!”

As they worked, the chatter of festival-goers and the sweet sound of laughter surrounded them. Wanda felt herself relax, losing herself in the moment. It was hard not to smile as she and Vision crafted a wreath filled with colorful leaves and twinkling lights. Vision focused intently, occasionally making comically serious comments about the structural integrity of their creation.