[Serious Punch: Saitama's serious punch can split the earth in two, ignoring any physical or magical defenses. Each use comes with a cooldown of three hundred sixty-five days!*

In the white grand bed of the mansion, Hode comfortably lay back, arms stretched, and looked at the system's reward introduction. "Saitama's Serious Punch?" He subconsciously nodded as he glanced at the newly acquired reward. He understood that this reward was Saitama's ultimate move, but he never expected to receive such an overpowered reward. He estimated that with just one punch, very few organisms above ground could withstand it. "It's a pity this is essentially a one-time use." Hode sighed; although there was a cooldown period, it was a bit too long. He shook his head, trying to push this thought out of his mind. After all, with the system, getting stronger was only a matter of time.

[Ding Dong!*

The phone on the brown nightstand vibrated. Hode casually picked it up, and upon seeing the message, a smile appeared on his face. It was from Wanda!

[Wanda: Are you asleep?*

In the Avengers base, in the Scarlet Witch's room, Wanda lay in bed wearing a sheer crimson nightgown. The vibrant fabric did nothing to hide her fair skin. The weight of the world pressed down on her, and Wanda tossed and turned on the bed. Every time she closed her eyes, the image of that soul-stirring figure filled her mind. Without even realizing it, she started searching for news about Hode online. Looking at the pictures made her smile, and her feelings of longing surged even more. Despite having just parted for a short while, she felt as if she were living through years of separation. After hesitating for a long time, she finally took out her phone and, with determination, sent Hode a text. At that moment, she felt like a shy girl, terrified that Hode might not reply.

[Hode: What's up? Do you miss me?*

As soon as this message popped up, Wanda's body tensed, and a smile involuntarily curved her lips. It was the first time she felt so happy to receive a message.

[Wanda: Does not missing you mean I can't message you?*

Wanda stared at the screen, her fair feet swinging restlessly. Hode chuckled softly at her reply; it was clear that the little witch was smitten!

[Hode: Cute little witch, do you want breakfast?*

"Breakfast?" Wanda paused for a moment, suddenly recalling what Hode had said that morning, her face turning bright red.

Can you be serious for once?!*

She hurriedly typed a response, though, deep inside, she had no real resistance to it. Because it was during these moments that she felt the connection of their hearts. She knew she was starting to rely on Hode more and more. Honestly, she couldn't believe how quickly she had fallen in love with someone. She knew it wasn't right, but still wanted to get closer.

[Hode: When are you free to come out? Let's go celebrate that you've finally shed that damned public scrutiny.*

Wanda could no longer contain her joy; her little feet were swinging even more vigorously. At that moment, she felt less like the near-invincible Scarlet Witch and more like a young girl.

[Wanda: How about the night after tomorrow? Let's go out for dinner?*

Wanda quickly typed on her phone and sent the message. She chose the night after tomorrow because she had a press conference to attend the next day; otherwise, she wouldn't want to wait even a moment longer.

[Hode: No problem, see you the day after tomorrow, my little witch.*

"YES!" Wanda clenched her fist, letting out a joyful shout. The day after tomorrow, she would get to see Hode. After looking at Hode's photo one last time, she reluctantly set her phone aside. But unlike earlier, she fell asleep feeling utterly satisfied.

Should I confess to Hode... pour my heart out to him...?*

This was Wanda's last thought before drifting off to sleep. Meanwhile, Hode also put his phone down. After a long, busy day, it was time for him to rest well. He had promised to accompany Gwen tomorrow to visit her father.

The Next Morning*

Ding-dong~

The brass bell on the oak door of the English-style cafe in New York jingled gently. A familiar figure entered the cafe.

"Hode, my dear old friend, I've missed you so much!"

Seeing Hode, Uncle Krew, who was wiping down a table, greeted him joyfully.

"Uncle Krew, I see you don't miss me but rather my money!"

Hode sat down in his usual chair, teasingly replying.

"How could you say that? I find you quite an entertaining person." Uncle Krew laughed off Hode's teasing, waving his hand dismissively. "What would you like to drink today?"

"Same as always."

Hode replied casually.

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