Chapter Text
The moon sat high in the sky, light glinting off the river as it rushed past. Icy cliffs reached toward the night across the water, rocky banks on the other meeting a dense wall of impossibly tall trees surrounding the clearing. And just beside that freezing torrent, a massive boulder of dark stone in the shape of a broken arrowhead jutted toward the night sky. The wind whipped through the clearing carrying a distant howl. A pair of eyes glowed as vibrant as molten gold shine through the trees. A voice whispered:
”The unclaimed wolf will surrender…”
Wednesday gasped, eyes wide as she came back to herself. Hand grasping the tuft of matted fur that had triggered the vision. Light in color and impossibly soft.
Enid.
“Niece, what did you see? Is it your wolf?” Uncle Fester a few steps ahead turned to face her, manic grin in place.
”The same as before, we have to find the river.” Wednesday stood, tucking the fur into her coat pocket. She scanned the trees as she pulled her glove back on, eyes finding more tracks; something tugged in her chest. “We’re getting close, this way.”
Without waiting she followed the prints and broken branches leading through the trees, luckily it hadn’t snowed for a few days so tracking her Werewolf roommate had been relatively easy compared to the storm they had endured earlier in the week. Thing crawled out from the shelter of her backpack to sit on the Brunett’s shoulder, tapping away as Fester lumbering through the brush behind them.
In the weeks since Enid had saved her life Wednesday had followed animal sightings, fish and wildlife reports, and any clue she could get her hands as she tracked her best friend. Almost a full lunar cycle had passed since the other girl had transformed and fled Nevermore. Twenty nine days since she had saved Wednesday’s life, sacrificing her own her humanity in the process. Three whole weeks since Wednesday and her Uncle had followed her into the depths of the Canadian Wilderness. Three weeks since Wednesday had slept through the night.
Now the Seer and her compatriots found themselves trekking through Newfoundland, south of Lake Melville. After her Aunt’s diary had triggered a puzzling vision of a blonde woman she believed to her her Aunt Ophelia locked in some type of prison cell, her psychic ability had returned in a spotty capacity.
Every night since that first vision Wednesday had been plagued by the same premonition; the icy river, the clearing, the broken boulder shaped like an arrowhead. That bone chilling howl, filled with despair and longing. And that voice, unknown, unfamiliar, whispering the same thing over and over. Each night she awoke in a cold sweat, dread gnawing at her insides like a starved hyena.
As she continued to track her roommate that voice would replay in her mind, whispering, warning. Each clue she uncovered, each vision was accompanied by that same insistent tug deep in her chest, a sign; she was heading in the right direction. She was running out of time.
Gliding silently across the Forrest floor like a wraith, Wednesday’s ears perked at the crash of running water. The Seer picked up the pace, breath condensing in short white clouds as she crested a hill and froze.The trees opened up before her and there at the bottom of the hill; the river.
Scrambling down the berm Wednesday’s eyes scanned her surroundings. The river rushed past in an icy torrent, dark cliffs on on the opposite side climbing high toward the night sky, and there; the broken arrowhead jutting up from the bank like a dark omen. The moon was high in the sky, light glinting off the jagged stone.
“This is it,” She whispered. Running her gloved hand along the boulder. This is where she would find Enid. Where she would save the werewolf, or fail her.
“Wow!” Fester gasped cresting the hill. ‘What a place for a showdown, huh? Where do you want me to set up the ambush?”
”No ambush,” Wednesday dropped her backpack on the rocky bank, turning to face her Uncle. “You and Thing go back to the Motorcycle, ensure everything is ready for our return to civilization with Enid. I’ll radio you when we’re on our way.”
”Are you sure you want to take on an Alpha Werewolf alone? You’re tough, Kid; but an alpha is an entirely different beast. You might want a little extra firepower.” An arc of electricity shot from his hands, striking a nearby tree.
“Enid won’t hurt me.” Wednesday’s voice was steel, her resolve firm. “She’s been alone, running from hunters and fighting other predators for survival. My presence will draw her out but a stranger will most assuredly spook her, and the last thing I need is to scare her away when I’ve come so close.”
Wednesday explored along the bank, coming across a fallen tree leaning against another large rock, in a makeshift shelter. The dirt had been turned here, branches full of leaves and pine needles pulled down to make a pseudo bed. A handful of bright bird feathers and glittering rocks tucked into the makeshift nest. Something warm washed over Wednesday, this was certainly where Enid had been taking shelter. She was relieved the other girl was still enough of herself to decorate her temporary home. That meant she wasn’t too late.
The brunette made her way back along the shore to her backpack and sat down on a large stone at the base of the boulder, removing Thing from her shoulder and setting him on the ground. The severed hand seems to look at her skeptically. “If my vision is to be trusted-which they always are-Enid should be making an appearance soon. Go back to the motorcycle. I’ll radio when it’s time.”
”Alright if you’re sure,” Fester shrugged as Thing scuttled over. He turned, giving an electric wave over his shoulder. “We’ll listen for your radio, don’t let the frostbite, bite!”
Wednesday listened as the sound of her uncle crashing back toward the road-interspersed with maniacal-giggling grew fainter and fainter. When she could no longer hear him she let out a chilly breath; tilting her head back against the cold stone at her back, eyes closed.
This was it, Enid would appear soon and then Wednesday would help her best friend transform back. She refused to consider the alternative, she could not fail the other girl. Not after everything they had been through. That deep ache in her chest returned, the same voice whispered across the raging water.
“The unclaimed wolf will surrender to the moon.”
Wednesday would not allow that to happen. She had traveled all this way, searched all this time. She would not fail Enid, could not even consider it as a possibility. She was Enid’s and Enid was her’s. They were a pack. Intrinsically bound. Enid would reveal herself and one way or another Wednesday would bring her home.
Reaching into her backpack Wednesday’s hand closed around a bundle of fabric. Pulling it out she unfurled the material revealing a small stuffed werewolf, its well-loved fabric worn bare in some spots; big beady eyes pouting up at her. The beloved toy wrapped in a pair of woven garments. One a vibrant rainbow, the other plain black. The snoods Enid had made for them when she first came to Nevermore. Wednesday had left hers at the Gates mansion her first semester, but unknown to Enid the goth had snuck back and retrieved it before leaving last summer. All items that held special value to the Werewolf, all key to helping her transform back.
Wednesday pulled out a large dusty tome next. She had packed light for their journey, taking only bare essentials for herself and the necessary items for Enid; but this book was crucial to her mission, and therefore the only exception. While Wednesday, her Uncle and their disembodied hand of a cousin had trekked across countless miles of the Canadian wilderness, Wednesday had kept tabs on her parents at home while they made arrangements for the party’s return. Checking in from landlines at rundown motel rooms and the surprising number of pay phones scattered across the various small towns they passed through. When Wednesday had announced her intention of journeying to find Enid, Gomez and Morticia had agreed enthusiastically, the pair assuring their daughter they would handle everything at home for their return. Gomez offering to contact the Sinclair family and oversee the careful packing and transport of the vibrant young woman’s belongings from Nevermore.
During that time Morticia had combed through the Addams Family Archives, searching for anything that may help her daughter in her quest. After almost two weeks of research the Dove had finally found something useful. An Ancient book on werewolves passed down through generations of Adams’. A historical record full of rumors, creation myths, Lycan Lore and studdies on pack dynamics. A treasure trove of information and upon verifying its validity, Morticia had it overnight shipped to the seedy hostel where Wednesday and her Uncle had taken refuge from a massive snowstorm.
Wednesday opened the book, the scent of aged parchment and iron ink filling her senses. Since receiving the book from her Mother, Wednesday had almost completely set aside her Aunt’s journal, every spare moment spent lost in these pages. Flipping past the section titled “Mates and Mating Bonds” she arrived at the section devoted to Pack Dynamics and Werewolf Hierarchies. Unlike the previous section-which had remained completely unread due to it’s lack of content relative to her current predicament-Wednesday had practically memorized this section of the book. Her eyes slid over familiar words, her chest tightening as she read the title of the last chapter in this section: Alpha Werewolves: Different, Deadly, Doomed?
Her mind raced as she read, a great deal of this information aligned with what Mrs. Capri had told Enid about Alpha Werewolves. Incredibly rare for their species, stronger, protective of their pack. And able to transform without the full moon. But what Ms. Capri had left out, was what filled Wednesday’s chest with molten dread.
The early months after a young alpha emerges are the most volatile in their development. Should the alpha transforms under a full moon they can become trapped in their Lycan form; unable to return to their human state. This is referred to as a Lupus Capti by ancient scholars. A Lupus Capti is more dangerous than an alpha during a standard transformation, they are stronger, emotions and sense are heightened and the morals and memory of the human fade as the wolf takes control. A trapped Alpha or Lupus Capti can be returned to their human form, however they only have until the rising of the next full moon for this to be done. After one full lunar cycle stuck as a wolf the alpha will become completely feral, losing their humanity forever and unable to turn back ever again. This is referred to as Beastiam Devotam: Doomed Beast.
The full moon was tomorrow night. Wednesday had less than 24 hours to find her best friend and turn her back. Or she would lose her forever.
Not an option. The brunette thought, turning the next page as she continued to read.
There is recorded evidence of Lupus Capti being found and returned to their human form by members of their pack. Though this is exceedingly rare, and for each successful attempt there are over a dozen unfortunates who have failed and in almost all cases been slaughtered by the now feral wolf.
In any attempt to free a Lupus Capti, items of importance to the trapped one must be gathered, belongings that will be used to trigger an emotional response from the human still within. and then the Alpha’s partner within the pack must approach the wolf and recite the incantation below. If successful the alpha will be freed from their Lycan state and human once more, no longer plagued by the dangers of becoming a Lupus Capti or Beastiam Devotam. Free to return to their pack. If unsuccessful…the attempting pack member will be aware. And should be prepared to destroy the beast.
Wednesday read and re-read the incantation, until she could see the worlds behind her eyelids when she blinked. She eyes drifted to the margin of the page, stacked in a collum were over a dozen names accompanied by a year. Each one in a different handwriting, some tidy, some barely legible, inks of differing colors and oxidation. Names of Alpha werewolves who had been turned back and the year it had been done, she had deduced.the first entry was Maeve Doyle - 1374. Wednesday ran the tip of her fingers of the names as she read, stopping at the last few entries.
Jillian Harcourt 1853
Liam MacKenzie 1897
Michael Gutierrez 1936
Ruby Walker 1981
Only four alphas in the last 200 years had been successfully saved. Enid would be the fifth.
Wednesday turned the page and continued to read. The remainder of the section on Alpha werewolves was enlightening; once the danger of becoming a Lupus Capti had passed Alpha Werewolves were documented to lead relatively normal lives-as far as outcasts go.
While stronger and with heightened senses superior to their non-blood moon counterparts, blood Moon wolves still formed packs, found mates and existed as any normal werewolf. The bond between members of an Alpha’s pack tended to run deeper, some cases even reporting pack members who were able to sense the emotions and physical state of other pack members over great distances. Alphas are incredibly protective of their pack and are often seen as territorial or possessive by new acquaintances.
The goth’s lips upticked slightly. That explains Enid’s reaction to Agnes at the beginning of the semester. When she finished re-reading the section Wednesday closer the book, stowing it in her bag.
Dark eyes scanned her surroundings searching for any sign of movement, when she saw it.
A pair of gold eyes, shining out at her from the shadows of the treeline.
Enid.
Wednesday grabbed the items she had brought with her, slowly looping the black snood over her head as she rose to her feet; never breaking eye contact with the predator in the trees. The light of the moon shining down on the clearing.
“The unclaimed wolf will surrender to the moon”
The voice whispered in her head again, taunting.
My wolf will surrender to me. She bit back.
Wednesday didn’t say a word, just stood, watching, waiting for the werewolf to step into the moonlight. Her normally slow steady heart, beating a stattico rhythm in her chest. Not out of fear, but anticipation. She had been waiting for this moment for 29 days. 29 days of searching, tracking, of desperately missing the other girl. And she was finally here. Wednesday wondered if Enid’s superior hearing allowed the wolf to hear how hard her heart was pounding through her calm facade.
Slowly, the wolf began to edge closer, finally emerging from the trees and into the visible light. Wednesday felt her heart spike dangerously as she took the other girl in. Enid had sustained injuries in her time alone. Her fur had become matted with blood, and muck. Some of it obviously another’s some of it probably her own. The werewolf’s head twitched to the side, ears pricking up.
She can hear my heart then. Wednesday though and began to force herself to calm, lest Enid’s wolf mistake her for prey. Wednesday took a slow step forward. The werewolf growled, teeth bared.
Enid,” Wednesday took another slow step, her voice low and steady. Fifty feet between them. “You certainly didn’t make this easy, but I’ve come to keep my word. I found you.”
She held up the wolf plushy, another step forward, and another. “I brought Remus, I know you can’t sleep without this insipid thing.”
The wolf edged closer, sniffing the air. Eyes still a vibrant gold. Wednesday continued her slow pace, twenty five feet left.
“I have your snood, you made them for us as a pair.” She held up the rainbow garment. “I even retrieved mine from the Gates mansion.”
Five steps closer for Wednesday, two steps closer for Enid, teeth bared slightly. Muscles tense under blonde fur, as if she was deciding wether to pounce or bolt for the treeline.
“I don’t know what horrors you’ve endured, Enid. But I promise they’re over, I’m here-”
*snap*
A twig broke under the brunette's boot and before she could process anything else Wednesday felt the air rush from her lungs as she was slammed into the cold ground. A mass of blonde fur and muscle pinning her down as the werewolf let out terrifying growl, deadly fangs looming over her. Gold eyes staring down at her as the beast reared back it’s head as if to close those powerful jaws around her throat.
You don’t scare me, Dog.” Wednesday grit out, trying to catch her breath. “I’ve watched you ugly cry over a fish in a nature documentary.”
The wolf froze, something flickering behind its cold eyes.
“You won’t hurt me, Enid.” Softer this time. And Wednesday, pinned down, alone and with no weapon; meant it. Enid would never hurt her, and she had to believe that somewhere inside this wild animal was still the soul of the girl who had brought color into her monochrome life.
The wolf huffed, inhaling deeply. The eyes changed, crystal blue swimming to the surface as she nosed at the dark haired girl’s snood. A pale hand freeing itself to reach up and run through blonde fur. “It’s me Enid, just me.”
The weight suddenly left Wednesday’s chest as the wolf shot back, pawing at it’s own head. Enid tensed, ready to dart off into the wood, Wednesday scrambled to her feet.
“Stop!” The wolf froze, still gripping its head, Wednesday retrieved Enid’s snood and approached. The werewolf was taunt like a bowstring, alternating between threatening growls and high pitched whines; eyes still swimming between shining gold and bright sapphire. But she allowed Wednesday to approach.
“I am your pack. I have tracked you across a continent; followed you through rain and blizzards, over rivers, up mountains, across the frozen hellscape that is Quebec. And I will follow you into hell if that is what it takes.”
Wednesday was close enough to touch now, The wolf having turned to fully face the other girl. Wednesday took the colorful garment and looped it over the werewolf’s head, using the ends to hold her in place from running as she started directly into shifting eyes. She took a deep breath and began to speak.
“Enid Sinclair; We are a pack. I am yours, and you are mine. In the Eyes of The Goddess, The Light of The Moon, and Spirit of The Beast; I call you by your name, I claim you as my own. From this moment to my last.”
Enid continued to let out a soft whimper, her head lowered toward the other girls as Wednesday gave an insistent tug on the snood, their forehead’s almost touching. Eye contact unbroken. “And you are coming home.”
A beat…and then another…nothing.
Suddenly Enid reared back, pulling out of the pseudo embrace and let out an earth shattering howl. The werewolf bared her fangs, claws lengthening, eyes returned to gold.
No, Wednesday watched wide eyed and stunned, unable to move. No, I can’t have failed, it isn’t possible. I promised.
Enid thrashed back and forth, raking claws across her fur; howling louder, when suddenly the howl changed. Into a scream.
A human scream.
Then came the cracking. Enid dropped to her knees, then all fours as the sickening sound of bones breaking and reforming filled the clearing, the other girl shrinking in size, fur vanishing.
Wednesday pulled her long black coat from her shoulders draping it over the other girl as the form of her best friend began to take shape. What felt like an eternity later Enid collapsed to the ground, breathing heavily, eyes closed.
Wednesday knelt next to her, having dropped to the ground with Enid. Hands hovering in the air, wanting to comfort her friend but unsure how. Eyes filled with poorly concealed concern raked over the other girl. Her hair was longer, tangled, the pastel dye all but gone from the very ends. A new cut stood out on her brow, several other injuries visible from what skin Wednesday could see. Enid seemed to have grown a few inches as well; new muscle, strong and well defined corded the girl’s lithe frame as she lay on the ground. Eyes closed, but alive. Alive and human.
Wednesday fought to keep her voice steady. “Enid?”
With a shuddering breath Enid pushed herself up onto her arms and opened her eyes. Wednesday kept her face completely still, jaw working to hold back the gasp that tried to fight it way out as she finally-finally met the clear blue eyes of her best friend. A wave of emotions crossed the blonde’s face as she took in the other girl.
“Wednesday?” Her voice was hoarse, barely audible but Wednesday heard it like it had been shouted. She gave a curt nod in reply, her voice escaping her in this moment; jaw clenched tight, hands still hovering.
In a blur Wednesday almost found herself knocked to the ground for the second time that night as the other girl threw herself at her in a tight hug. It took a moment for Wednesday to process what was happening before she slowly wrapped her own arms around the other girl, returning the embrace. Burying her face in filthy blonde hair Wednesday couldn’t hold back her shuddering breath anymore and held tight. Uncaring of the biting cold, the discomfort of the rocks digging into her legs or Enid’s nails piercing through the back of her shirt. They were all proof; Enid was back, Wednesday had done it. And she would bear anything that helped her grasp this was real.
Wednesday was reminded of their first and only embrace prior to this, after Enid had wolfed out for the first time. She pulled the other girl slightly tighter, as the blonde’s shoulders began to shake with quiet sobs.
Wednesday didn’t know how long they sat there, clinging onto each other. But eventually Enid pulled back and Wednesday loosened her hold to look into thee eyes she had missed so much.
“You found me.” Still quiet, but stronger. Enid wiped at her eyes.
“Of course I did,” Wednesday felt her cheeks burn with how intensely Enid was looking at her, but she refused to look away. To miss a moment of those brilliant eyes. “I promised. ”
Enid collapsed back against her shoulder, eyes closed as she pulled the black leather duster tighter around her shoulders. Whispered. “You always keep your promises.”
“I do.” Wednesday rested her chin on the other girl’s head and felt the ball of lead in her chest loosen and dissolve into something molten, something right. For you, I always will.
Once Enid was steady enough Wednesday helped her to her feet and collected her backpack. Where she had stashed a change of clothes, a warm coat and a pair of boots in the werewolf’s size.
As Enid got properly dressed for the weather Wednesday radioed her uncle and thing letting them know she had been successful and to meet them at the pick up point. And the girls began the slow trek out of the Forrest. Enid was still unsteady and exhausted after so many weeks spent as a wolf. She was positive her ribs were broke and the skin around several healing cuts tugged painfully tight as the pair made their way slowly, Wednesday hovering nearby with a hand to support or an arm to lean on.
Long after the sun had split the sky, the road came into view. And there, siting proudly in a no parking zone was Fester and the motorcycle. A rapid patter was all the warning the pair had before a small object impacted Enid's leg and began skittering up toward the werewolf’s shoulder.
“Careful, Thing.” Wednesday admonished, hand steadying the other girl’s waist. And Wednesday realized she had initiated more physical contact with another person in the last 12 hours than she likely had in her entire life.
“It’s okay buddy,” Enid smiled at the hand that was signing rapidly to her. “I missed you too.”
“Well, well, if it isn’t the furball that caused all the trouble.” Fester laughed from his spot on the road. Enid winced.
“Uncle,” the low tone and glare was the only warning the brunette gave.
“I’m sorry I didn’t mean-” Enid begs but was cut off by Fester waving his hand through the air.
“Oh I’m just kidding ya! This little international hunt was the most fun I’ve had since I had to escape that sinking submarine.” Fester eyed the girl as the pair came closer. Sinking into a theatrical bow. “Fester Addams at your service! But there’ll be more time for chit-chat later, we’ve got a schedule to keep.”
With a sweeping gesture at the motorcycle Fester gave a manic grin. “Hop in!”
“Schedule?” Enid glanced at Wednesday who had stepped away to stow her backpack in the rear hatch of the sidecar.
“All part of the plan. Once I told Fester you had been recovered, he made contact with my parents. They’ve arranged a pit stop at a hotel for us to rest and tend to your needs. After you recuperate enough for travel, we make our way to the airport. Then straight home.”
“What?” Enid’s eyes widened in panic, her breathing rapid. “I don’t want to go to San Francisco, I’m not ready. I don’t even know how my parents feel about the whole alpha thing, I can’t go back yet.”
“Breath,” Wednesday stepped in front of the other girl, and began modeling the box breathing technique that seemed to help. Enid copied her and once the blonde hadn’t calmed down enough Wednesday continued. “You aren’t going to California. At least not yet, not ever if you don’t want to.”
“But where…?”
“My parents have opened the Addams family home to you, indefinitely. They have been in communication with your mother and all parties agree it would be best for you to recover where you can receive the highest quality of care. Our estate. There is a room prepared, Cook has been informed of your dietary needs, and father almost wept with joy at the thought of a werewolf prowling the grounds again.”
“Oh god, your family doesn’t have to do that, I can figure something out-!” Wednesday cut off her friend’s spiral with a sharp look, jaw set defiantly.
“You should know by now I never do anything I do not wish to. And neither does my family.” Wednesday softened slightly, stepping closer. “We are a pack, Enid. That means wherever I am, there will be a place for you. My parents not only understand this, but are enthusiastic for your arrival.”
“Now, there is a scalding shower, clean clothes and a much needed first aid kit that desperately wants to see you, waiting at the hotel.” Wednesday offered up a sleek black helmet. “Get in.”
Without further protest Enid climbed into the sidecar, helmet secure on her head; while Wednesday mounted the back of the motorcycle behind her Uncle. When suddenly a thought occurred to the Werewolf.
“Wait! You said we’re going to an airport, I don’t have my passport!”
“Passport?!” Fester cackled as the engine roared to life. “Kid you’re with the Addams’, who needs a passport?”
With that Fester cranked the throttle, shooting out onto the highway and back toward civilization. Wednesday spent the entire ride observing her best friend. The way the late morning light shined on her skin, the nervous picking at her nails, the way she was obviously exhausted but fighting to stay away as she anxiously scanned the treeline. Like a threat might appear and try to drag her back.
Wednesday felt the urge to reach out and comfort the other girl, a deep secret part of her regretting not climbing into the sidecar alongside her. It would have been uncomfortably tight, but she would have been close, able to soothe nerves and still anxious hands. After almost an hour of neurotically scanning their surroundings, the exhaustion won out. Wednesday watched Enid drift off to sleep in the side car, Remus the stuffed wolf clutched against her chest. Something warm filled her chest at the sight, something right. With a slight shake of her head Wednesday set her shoulders and banished the feeling from her mind. She couldn’t allow herself to lose focus. They had found Enid and returned her to her human form, but they were still several hours journey from the hotel and an even longer distance from the safety of the Addams Estate.
Checking into the extravagant hotel was much smoother than Enid expected. She figured a grown man with a little too much light behind his eyes and two teenage girls-one of whom was filthy and obviously in need of a doctor-checking into a hastily book hotel would have raised more than a few red flags. But Wednesday had sauntered up to the check in counter and deposited a black card onto the desk without a word. Looking for all the world like a bored teen checking out a library book for a school project. With a few clicks and wide eyes from the attendant, less than thirty seconds later the group were inside a private elevator, the anxious concierge assuring them that their special accommodations were completed this afternoon and everything they requested were awaiting them.
When the elevator doors opened Enid was surprised to see there was only one door at the end of a short hallway. But she was so focused on the insistent throb of her ribs and twinge of old cuts as they pulled, that she almost missed the plaque on the wall as Wednesday escorted her through the threshold. The brunette’s hand hovering a hairsbreadth away from her back. Not touching, not forcing, but supportive, there just in case she needed it.
The Addams Suite
The concierge continued to prattle nervously as Enid gaped at her surroundings. This wasn’t a suite, this was an entire floor. The entryway lead into a massive sitting area, filled with plush velvet furniture, a large bookcase that filled one of the walls entirely and a roaring fireplace. Enid could see a fully functional kitchen off to the left and what appeared to be a game room with a barley visible billiards table. There were easily a half dozen doors leading to who knows what else off the main room. And across the room from the entryway; floor to ceiling windows that looked out into the night sky, and down on the bustling city below.
“Dibs on the padded room!” Fester shot off like a bolt, disappearing into their temporary residence, Thing in tow.
“That will be all.” Wednesday cut off the rambling man behind her, holding up several folded bills, eyes never leaving Enid as the other girl looked around in awe. “I will be placing a large room service order shortly, please inform the kitchen. And tell them I expect it promptly, and hot.”
”I-I’m sorry Ms. Addams, at this time in the evening we have a reduced kitchen staff and smaller menu, there may be some delay.” The concierge stepped into her view with a nervous smile, wringing his hands.
Wednesday said nothing, eyes sliding slowly to land on the man, her expression unchanged; she reached into her coat pocket and produced an entire billfold, holding it up silently. After a nervous beat, then another, the man stepped forward accepting the cash.
“Of course, that would never apply to you, Ms. Addams. I’ll speak to the head chef and ensure he understands. Thank you Ms. Addams. Enjoy your evening!” As quickly as humanly possible the man disappeared back through the door, leaving the girls alone in the quiet of the dim lighting.
“This is insane,” Enid whispered, looking around. Wednesday strode past her, opening the door closest to the kitchen to reveal a massive bedroom with two king size beds, each with a black duffle on it, one also with a large red backpack next to it. Another door stood closed off to the right that Enid assumed was an en-suite. Wednesday gestured her through it. “I can’t believe your parents bought an entire suite, just for us to use for one night.”
”Don’t be absurd, you can’t purchase a single suite.” Wednesday moved to the bed that held both black duffle and red backpack, and began to sift through its contents. “My parents purchased the hotel.”
“What?!” Enid gasped. As a distant shout came from down the hallway.
“Cannonball!” Followed by a massive splash.
‘There’s a pool too?!” Enid ran her hand through her tangled hair, her breathing becoming rapid. “This is too much, I’ll never be able to pay your parents back-”
“Enid breathe,” Wednesday was in front of the other girl again encouraging her to sync their breathing. When Enid’s heart had returned to normal Wednesday gave her a once over and spoke. “My father is somewhat of a real estate Mogule-as a hobby. He finds high end properties, preferably ones that are understaffed and the employees under paid and he buys them. Flips their business model and restructures everything; poor managers are fired, employees receive extravagant raises, benefits are increased. He particularly likes doing this with high end hotels and restaurants, it’s enjoyable for him. He and my Mother had already been looking at this place, and when it turned out to be the best option between where I found you and the airport, they decided to launch the gouilletine prematurely. ”
“Okay that’s crazy, you realize that sounds crazy, right?” Enid asked.
“Crazy is to an Addams, as water is to a shark. Now speaking of water,” Wednesday gestured toward the other door. “You’ll need to get cleaned up so I can tend to your injuries before they get any more infected. Do you need help?”
Enid shook her head, snagging the other duffle and walking stiffly toward the door. “No, I should be okay.”
Wednesday returned to cataloguing the contents of the red backpack with methodical precision. “Scream if you need anything.”
”Thanks Wens,” Enid whispered with a small smile, disappearing behind the door.
It turns out Wednesday hadn’t requested a first aid kit, but a full on trauma bag. When Enid emerged from the steam-filled bathroom, finally clean after so many weeks alone in the woods, Wednesday had a layout of supplies across the bed that looked straight out of an episode of Grey’s Anatomy.
Is that a bonesaw?!
“Food should be here soon.” The goth said, eyes fixed to her tools. “Feel better?”
“Loads,” Enid sighed struggling to dry her hair with a towel. She had changed into an oversized tie dye long sleeve and matching pajama shorts. She didn’t know how the hotel or the Addams’ knew her size preferences but they were perfect. Just big enough to be comfy, and soft as a kitten. Giving up on her hair she dropped the towel to the floor and turned to her roommate. “Alright Dr. Frankenstein, how do you want me?”
Enid practically heard the record scratch as Wednesday froze, hand hovering between rolls of gauze. Her face burned.
“Where! I mean-“ she cleared her throat, looking anywhere but the other girl. “Where do you want me, to like-uh, to sit.”
“The chaise will suffice.” Wednesday’s expression remained unchanged as she gestured toward the lounger near the window, a small table sitting at one end. Hands gathering supplies as if she missed the slip entirely.
Enid gingerly sat back against the plush arm of the sofa, trying and failing to withhold a his of pain as her ribs protested. Wednesday was at her side in an instant. Supplies deposited on the end table as she observed, scanning the other girl’s form before locking eyes.
“Take off your shirt.”
“What?” Enid squeaked, eyes wide, face burning again. “I mean-uh why?”
“Your ribs are obviously compromised, and I know of at least two lacerations on your abdomen that will need tending. The easiest way to do so will be if you remove your top.” Wednesday spoke with clinical efficiency as she readied gauze and rubbing alcohol. “I can assist, if you need.”
Yeah, that uh, that makes sense.” Enid slowly pushed herself upright, wincing again. She swallows grateful for the comfy sports bra she had been debating on not wearing. “Help please?”
Wednesday nodded and with a gentleness that was rarely seen by others, She helped Enid out of the long sleeve and leaned her back against the arm of the sofa. The raven rolled up her sleeves and picking up the gauze pads again she began to survey the exposed skin, cataloguing every nick and bruise.
“Ya know, I’m probably fine. Most of these will heal on their own in a few days, werewolf healing and all.” Enid shifted nervously, waving a hand gingerly as she rambled. “We really don’t have to do this, I’m sure you want to shower too. No big deal!”
Brown eyes locked onto blue. A dark eyebrow raised. Wednesday jerked her chin toward the end table. “Pain killers and water are on the table, take them.
“Nah werewolf juju should handle all this,” Enid gestured to her general person. “Really, I’m okay.”
Wednesday pressed the alcohol coated gauze to the large cut over her ribs. Hard.
“Jesus,” Enid jerked upright with a hiss, trying to get away from the burn. Wednesday pushed her back against the sofa, never breaking eye contact. “Alright, alright!”
End snatched the water and pills off the table. Dowing them both quickly she set the glass aside and lifted her hands in defeat. “You win, Sawbones. Dr away.”
Wednesday remained wordless as she resumed her observation of Enid’s injuries, but the other girl would swear the corners of the brunette's lips lifted slightly.
Sadist.
“Asshole.” Is what she settled on instead. The Raven’s lips lifted a fraction higher, but she didn’t protest.
End was silent as she watched Wednesday work. Each injury was carefully cleaned, inspected and dress with all the care and graceful precision of defusing a nuclear bomb. Enid supposed anyoneone else in her situation might feel like a lab rat about to be vivisected, but not her.
Wednesday’s focus was laser precise, unyielding and all consuming. And to be the subject of that focus felt more like an act of worship than of study. It was mesmerizing, it was intoxicating.
Enid glanced up at the night sky through the floor to ceiling windows, the full moon shining back at her. As she observed she felt that primal tug, to shift, to run. But as she turned her gaze back to her roommate there was a deeper pull. Something in the very core of her being that made her wolf howl and revolt at the idea of leaving Wednesday’s side. Something instinctual and all consuming that told her she was exactly where she was supposed to be. Where she needed to be.
God she sounded like one of Yoko’s trashy romantasy novels.
Enid was very well aware of the feelings she harbored for her best friend, especially after her little body-swap induced visions back at Nevermore. But this felt different, deeper. Something in her had changed and surpassed what she thought was a high school crush. And while Enid knew Wednesday had no interest in romance of any kind, she would put all that aside as long as she was able to keep the Raven in her life. In whatever way she could. Though some deep, secret, stupid part of her remembered her visions from last semester, and continued to whisper. Continued to hope.
After what felt like both an eternity and an instant Wednesday sat back on her stool, discarding the last piece of bloody gauze. Wednesday was confident the cut across her brow wouldn’t scar, but the same couldn’t be said for the deep slash marks that ran down the left side of Enid’s ribs to her hip. Courtesy of a territorial grizzly bear she encountered just over the Canadian border. The itching under her skin told her that her broken ribs had already begun to knit back together. And several smaller bruises had begun to fade to an ugly green. The cut on her back had been infected as Wednesday feared, as had several on her legs. But after debriding the wounds Wednesday had covered them in a strange smelling salve in a black jar from her own backpack, and Enid felt the irritation fade from the wounds.
The raven helped her redress, and while the werewolf felt like she was more bandage than skin; she did have to admit she felt much better. A calm had settled over the Lycan, and all she wanted to do was sleep.
“Thanks Nurse,” she yawned as the other girl helped settle her back on one of the large beds. Wednesday rolled her eyes. “What do I owe for the house call?”
“A lifetime of servitude, complete with blood pact.” Came the dry remark. Wednesday stood and quickly packed away the contents of the trauma bag.
“I’m going to clean up, you should rest until the food arrives. If it isn’t here by the time I’m done, we’ll be dining on the kitchen staff.” She grabbed her own black duffle off the other bed, surprised when no protest came to her threat.
“Do you require anything before I go?” Turning to her roommate Wednesday saw the reason the other girl hadn’t reprimanded her for being unkind to service workers; she was already fast asleep on top of the duvet, snoring lightly .
The exhaustion from the last twenty four hours, the last month-if Wednesday was being honest had taken its toll and now it seemed Enid’s body demanded the rest it required. Wednesday was only glad that the other girl felt safe enough to let her defenses down. Trusting Wednesday would keep her safe. Wednesday approached the sleeping werewolf. Hesitating for a moment before running cool fingertips across the cut on her brow, featherlight and far gentler than Wednesday knew she could be.
“Rest, I’ll wake you when it’s here.” She whispered. Before turning and disappearing into the restroom. Making quick work of cleansing her body of the days spent tracking through the woods of Canada, Wednesday dressed in a simple pair of black sweat pants and plain hoodie, rebraiding her hair with practiced efficiency.
She exited the bathroom and much to her displeasure saw only Fester and Thing fiddling with the wiring to the entertainment system and not the room service order she requested over an hour ago. Returning to the bedroom she picked up the phone, preparing to eviscerate the concierge and possibly fire the chef on the spot-when she heard it.
Soft at first, so low she almost missed it. The jagged breathing, then quiet sobbing. She whipped around to face the occupied bed, phone clattering to the desk. “Enid?”
The werewolf had curled into a ball on her side, arms wrapped tightly around her middle; and sure enough her shoulders shook with quiet sobs, eyes still closed tightly. A small, broken whimper passed her lips and Wednesday was across the room in an instant.
“Enid?” The Raven perched at the end of the bed facing her friend, hands hovering over the other girl’s form; unsure of how to comfort her. Enid’s eyes were closed tightly, but Wednesday could see frantic movement behind her eyelids as her breathing grew more ragged, tears streaming down the blonde’s face. A nightmare then.
”Enid, wake up,” Wednesday called softly a hand landing feather light on her best friend's shoulder, squeezing softly. “It’s just a dream. Whatever it is, it can’t hurt you; you’re safe.”
Enid’s claws suddenly shot out, digging into her recently bandaged side the werewolf let out a cry of pain.
“Enid!” Wednesday grabbed the offending wrist intending to snatch it away but quickly found her world spinning and her back pressed against the mattress, wrist held above her head. Gold eyes and elongated canines snarling down at her, the blonde’s body pressing into hers. Wednesday didn’t falter, ebony eyes meeting gold. “It was a dream, Enid. You’re safe. You’re with me.”
”Wends?” Gold gave way to teary blue eyes that screamed of exhaustion and confusion. “What, what’s going on?”
”I believe you were having a nightmare, I tried to wake you, I startled you instead.” Came the calm reply, Wednesday still pinned underneath the other girl. “Do you-would you like to talk about it?”
‘Wednesday! you can’t do that, especially not on a full moon. What if I hurt you?” Enid protested, eyes still wide.
“Do you need to talk about it, Enid?” Wednesday pressed softly, watching the blonde’s jaw clench as she closed her eyes. As if fighting back the dream. Enid let out a shuddering breath and dropped her head to Wednesday’s shoulder.
‘Not a nightmare, a memory. It was so awful,” She whispered. Wednesday felt the hot tears through her hoodie. Enid’s grip on her wrist relaxed into a gentle hold, no longer controlling-just reassuring through touch that Wednesday was still there. “I was being hunted by another pack a few weeks ago. I lost control, I was so scared-so angry. I don’t remember anything but the blood. I think…Wednesday, I think I killed them.”
”A small pack of four wolves out of Toronto. Three men, led by one woman.” Wednesday replied, free hand coming up to rest on the other girl’s back, fingertips running in what she hoped was comforting circles. Enid lifted her head, eyes wide with fear. Wednesday continued just as softly, holding eye contact. “You didn’t kill them, Enid. Blinded one of them and broke twenty bones between the rest. I interviewed them while searching for your trail.”
Enid gasped out the breath she was holding, dropping her head back down, shoulders shaking with relief.
‘Enid,” Wednesday shrugged her shoulder, making the blonde lift her head to look her in the eyes. “I need you to understand Enid. Even if you had killed them, it wouldn’t be your fault. They attacked you, you were running-just trying to survive and they pursued you. You defended yourself. And they were fortunate enough to leave with their lives. Walking away partially blinded and with only twenty eight broken bones between the four of them is much more than they deserve. ”
‘I thought you said it was twenty bones?”
“I said you broke twenty of their bones. I said that I interviewed them later.”
’Wednesday,” Enid admonished.
“I imprisoned and electrocuted someone who I was reasonably certain was the monster attacking people who I barely knew.” Wednesday scoffed. “A little light torture is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what I would have done to find you.”
“You really would have stopped at nothing, huh?” Enid whispered, pulling back slightly to study the girl beneath her.
“Not even death would dare to try and stop me.” Wednesday felt something wild, something desperate and honestly raw climbing to the surface, raging against her calm facade.
“Because you made me a promise?” The question hung in the air like a guillotine, blue eyes searched ebony.
“That too,” Wednesday answered back just as softly. That desperate monster now raging in her chest, trying to claw its way out of her throat. Threatening to ruin everything in a way Wednesday didn’t understand, but couldn’t allow. Enid’s brow furrowed slightly.
“Wh-?”
A sharp knock interrupted the question and both girls froze, realizing the compromising position they were in. The bubble that held this moment shattered as Fester’s voice sang out through the door.
“Laaaadies! Chow time!”
Enid’s eyes widened and she scrambled off the Raven as quickly as her injuries would allow. Wednesday shot of the bed, face hot and chest tight.
“We should eat,” She choked out, standing with her back to the werewolf. Adjusting the sleeve of her hoodie over the skin that burned from Enid’s touch.
“Wednesday,” Enid pleaded, trying to meet her eyes and recapture the moment before the Raven’s walls rose again. “What d-?”
“We should eat.” Voice steady now, and firm as steel. All softness from just moments ago vanished like smoke. “You’re in a significant calorie deficit, you need sustenance if you’re going to recover properly. And if we don’t hurry Uncle Fester will eat it all.”
Wednesday squared her shoulder and paused, hesitating for just a moment before oh so slowly extending her hand toward Enid. Not looking toward the other girl, staring fixedly at the door as she spoke again, slightly softer. “You need to eat…please.”
Enid looked between the offered hand and the woman who wouldn’t look at her. Wednesday’s shoulders were too tight, the muscle in her jaw straining, but she was trying. Trying not to shut Enid out entirely. For tonight that would have to be enough. Sighing, Enid took the hand and allowed herself to be helped off the bed and guided toward the door. “Okay.”
When Wednesday said she would be placing a large room service order, Enid didn’t realize just how serious the other girl had been. There was at least one of everything on the menu spread out on the fancy dark wood dining table, a few items that Enid noted were particularly high in protein or carbs even showing up two or three times. Fester and Thing were already waiting for them, Fester tying a lobster bin around his neck.
Enid allowed Wednesday to help her into a chair as she scanned the table, unable to decide on where to start. She hadn’t realized just how hungry she was. Enid thought she had managed to find enough food to keep her hunger at bay and herself full while on the run, but sitting here now with a literal buffet before her; Enid realized just how wrong she had been. She had been surviving off adrenaline and scraps from rivers and small animals. And now she could eat her fill for the first time in a month.
Enid’s eyes landed on the biggest steak she had ever seen and couldn’t help but gasp at the way her mouth watered and her canines ached. Before she could so much as reach the plate was deposited in front of her, along with a handful of her other favorite sides.
“Premium cask aged ribeye, cooked rare.” Wednesday settled back into her own chair grabbing a similar but smaller steak for herself. Enid smiled gratefully, the raven nodding in return. She gestured to the others at the table. “Dig in.”
They boys attacked the table with gusto and Enid watched as Fester shoved an entire lobster in his mouth at once, pulling out the empty shell a bit at a time. Thing attacked a plate of ribs and Enid looked away, unsure if she wanted to see how that worked. Wednesday was cutting into her steak with all the precision grace of a mortician,unbothered by the chaos around her.
“If you don’t remember how to use silverware, you’re more than welcome to use your hands.” She remarked, one slim eyebrow raised.
Enid scoffed, making a show of grabbing her fork and knife and cutting into her own food with a snide look. She took a bite and couldn’t help the moan that passed her lips at the first taste. This was the best thing she had ever eaten.
Next to her Wednesday froze, her own bite halfway to her mouth. Enid noticed a hit on color on the tips of her ears.
“You okay Wends?”
“Fine,” the other girl cleared her throat and took the bite. Enid eyed her as the group continued their meal in relative peace. As soon as she finished one plate another would appear in front of her, loaded with exactly what she had been planning to reach for next. Enid observed the other girl out of the corner of her eye. Wednesday kept looking at her the entire dinner. Like she was making sure she was really there, as if she would disappear at any moment.
Enid nudged her leg under the table, Wednesday’s posture softened slightly, her eyes darting to Enid and back to her plate. Enid went a step further, hooking her ankle with Wednesday’s. Not pulling, not pressuring, just there. Tense shoulders relaxed, the bruntte’s eyes closing for the briefest moment. When she opened them again she seemed calmer; less like she was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Something warm settled in Enid’s chest at the sight. She kept her ankle hooked with Wednesday’s.
Once she had eaten more than her fill, Enid settled back in her chair, and observed. Wednesday had been right; Enid would have guessed the amount of food the raven ordered would have fed at least ten people. But between her ravenous hunger and the organic black hole that appeared to be Fester Addams they had cleared almost the entire table. Enid’s eyes left where Fester was polishing off the last of a deluxe hamburger; glancing at Thing laying palm up on the table next to an empty wine bottle, finally settling on the girl next to her.
Wednesday sat, posture straight as ever in the high baked chair. A glass of deep red wine in hand, taking sips as she stared off into the distance, Lost in thought. Enid watched entranced, the brunette’s lips stained from the wine moving ever so slightly as she turned over whatever was occupying her thoughts. Enid continued to study her best friend. The sharp line of her jaw, the column of her throat, eyes so dark the werewolf wanted to lose herself in them. And the scars, one on her chin, the other across the bridge of her nose. The only visible reminder of her near death at Willow Hill. So faint on porcelain skin that you had to be in the raven’s personal space to see them fully. Enid wanted to be the only one allowed that close.
Her eyes scanned the other girl again, unable to get over the juxtaposition of the woman before her. Sitting in a simple set of black sweatpants and a matching hoodie, in a hotel that her father had purchased just because, and drinking wine from a bottle that probably cost more than a semester tuition at Nevermore. And yet twenty four hours ago Wednesday had been trekking through snow and rain across the Canadian wilderness to find her. Sleeping in seedy motels and eating from whatever roadside stand they passed. And yet Wednesday had slid between the two worlds as easily as one changes a shirt.
Eyes lifting from the wineglass they drifted back down to the other girl’s lips to find them no longer making soundless shapes but full on speaking. Brown eyes now looking at her expectantly.
Enid snapped out of it, blushing deeply at being caught. “Sorry, zoned out. What’s up?”
“You were staring at my wine, I asked if you would care to try it.” Wednesday offered the half full glass.
“Oh no thanks,” Enid grinned nervously, unsure if Wednesday didn’t notice her full on ogling or was just being nice enough not to bring it up.
“I’m not really a wine person” she said thinking back to the grocery store wine her grandma had let her try at Thanksgiving after she turned thirteen. “And besides, I’m still really tired and if I drink I might pass out before I make it to bed. I’m glad you like it though!”
“Hardly,” the raven sneered down at the glass. “While from a decent vineyard, some might find this vintage acceptable. However, it’s swill compared to what we have in the cellar at home.”
Wednesday put down the glass, and stood. “But you’re right, you need your rest and we have an early start tomorrow. We should head to bed, if you’re ready?”
Enid nodded and let the other girl help her out of her chair. Yawning loudly, she bid the boys good night and followed Wednesday back to their shared room. The girls prepared for bed in comfortable since, familiar routine sliding back into place. Wednesday bid her roommate goodnight and found herself reclining back on the luxurious mattress. Assuming her usual corpse pose for sleeping, Wednesday felt the exhaustion deep in her bones and bid the sweet unconsciousness of sleep claim her. But alas no such rest came.
After almost an hour of staring at the ceiling, Wednesday heard a frustrated growl come from the other bed. Tossing and turning followed by a soft whine.
“What’s wrong?” Wednesday turned to see the other girl laying on her back, an arm thrown over her eyes, chest rising and falling rapidly.
“Nothing,”
“That’s obviously not true. The sooner you answer the sooner I can assist.”
I’m-I’ll be fine. Thanks Wends.” Enid tried to sound light hearted but her voice cracked on the affectionate nickname.
“Enid. Please,”
That was all it took, four syllables, two words; and Enid broke. She let out a stuttering gasp and heaving sobs followed, hands tangling in her hair as she curled onto her side. Raising silently like a wraith, Wednesday was across the room and at the other girls side in an instant. One of Enid’s hands shot out to grip the fabric of her sleep shirt.
Wednesday reached for the werewolf’s other hand gently untangling it from blonde tresses and holding it tight. Her free hand landed on Enid’s back and began to move in the same calming rhythm her mother used when she suffered from insomnia during a terrible growth spurt.
She didn’t speak, simply held the girl through her tears, a solid presence allowing her to express everything she needed to feel in this moment. Eventually the sobs quieted and the tears slowed, leaving Enid sniffling, unsure when her head had moved to the other girl’s lap. Or when her pale hand had moved from her back up to run through her hair.
Wednesday sat quietly as Enid calmed. Not demanding, not pressuring, just waiting. Patient as stone. Enid closed her eyes, took in a deep breath and began to speak.
“When I saved you; I ran because I was afraid of what would happen if I stayed. I was worried that once I turned I would be feral like Ms. Capri said. And that I would hurt you, or Agnes. And I couldn’t let that happen, so I ran. I ran as hard and as fast as I could before my wolf took over. And everything after that is just flashes. Bits of memory, sound, smells, but mostly feelings.”
Wednesday recalled her own heightened sense when she had transformed while in Enid’s body, she couldn’t imagine how much more intense it had been losing control under a full moon. She continued her soft ministrations in Enid’s hair, a gentle squeeze to signal she was listening.
“I was so, so scared, but mostly I felt so alone. The part of me that was still me, knew you were coming, knew you would find me. But there was this other part that was so much louder, angrier. Saying that you wouldn’t come, that I had ran to far, was to hard to find, to much trouble, that I was just too much. And that I was going to be alone forever, slowly going insane. And that terrified me.”
Another hot tear slipped down the blonde’s cheek onto Wednesday’s leg. Enid took another shuddering breath and continued.
“And then you found me. And I don’t think I’ve ever been happier in my life than I was holding you on that dirty Forrest floor last night. And being here now, with you and Thing and your Uncle Fester; and the fact that we’re going home and your parents are going to let me stay with you, it feels so unreal. Like the best dream I could have possibly wished for. But now that voice is back, saying that this isn’t real, that I couldn’t possibly deserve this. And I’m terrified that if I fall asleep I’ll find out this or really was a dream. And if I close my eyes, when I open them…I’ll be alone again.”
“Look at me.” Came the soft reply. Enid turned her head up and crystal blue eyes that were red from crying met dark brown that held fire and steel. Wednesday’s hand stilled, sliding down to caress her cheek; fingers hovering over her scars. Wednesday studied her for a moment.
“I don’t know if that voice was your own insecurities, your wolf, or a fledgling psychosis; But whatever it was I’m speaking directly to it now. You deserve all that my family can give you and so much more. You deserve to be supported, to be cared for, to be safe. I meant it when I said the mark you have left on me is indelible, Enid. You have changed me on a level I previously did not think possible. There is no corner of this earth that your wolf could run to that I would not follow. And as long as my corpse still breaths , you will never be alone. Do you understand that?”
“Yes,” Enid whispered, eyes now filled with a different kind of tears. Wednesday once.
“Now that that’s settled, get up.” The Raven instructed. Enid felt a pang of sadness at losing contact with the other girl as she pushed herself up into a sitting position, but she understood. Wednesday was already hours past her usual physical touch limit. Honestly Enid was surprised the other girl held her for as long as she did.
Enid’s sadness turned into confusion when instead of walking back to her own bed Wednesday moved around the other side of the bed and slid under the covers next to her. She reclined against the pillow and looked at the gobsmacked werewolf expectantly.
“Well?”
“I don’t understand what’s happening.” Was the only sentence Enid’s exhausted brain could string together. Wednesday scoffed and rolled her eyes.
“If the only thing keeping you from sleep is the worry that you’ll be alone when you wake up, the easiest solution is to share a sleeping space. ” Wednesday even lifted an arm and beckoned the other girl closer.
“But you can’t stand physical touch,” Enid didn’t move, convinced this had to be sleep deprivation induced hallucination.
“And I despise the thought of you in distress or passing out from exhaustion even more. Besides, my body has developed a strange tolerance when it comes to your need for physical contact. So if it will help you rest than we may…cuddle as you would put it.”
Enid continued to stare frozen. Wednesday scowled back. “The offer expires in five seconds.”
Enid jolted form her stupor, inching closer to the other girl and tentatively placing her head on the raven’s shoulder. A slim wrapped around her back,Enid tentatively placed her’s on the other girl’s waist.
“Is this okay?” She asked tentatively.
“You would know if it wasn’t.” The goth replied, settling with a deep sigh. “Are you comfortable?”
“Yes,”
“Good,” A soft squeeze came to her shoulders. “Good night Enid, terrible dreams.”
“Good night, Wednesday.” Enid whispered back, closing her eyes. With a deep sigh the werewolf focused on the slow steady heart beat under her ear and drifted off into a deep sleep.
Your family has a private jet?” Enid stared in awe at the small plane the towncar pulled up to on the tarmac. Sleek glossy black paint with the Addams family crest and a large stylized A in gold near the tail.
“Last night I told you my father plays monopoly with real buildings, you’re surprised over a personal aircraft?” Wednesday waited for Enid to exit before guiding the other girl to follow Fester toward the boarding stairs. An attendant grabbing their luggage from the back.
“Okay in retrospect, I guess it isn’t that surprising.” Enid followed her up the stairs. “But when you said your mom made arrangements at the airport, I figured you meant, like booking tickets. Not sending their private jet.”
“You misunderstand. My parents wanted to send one of their crafts, but the Bombasir Global 8000 is too large for this airport and the Cirrus SF50 is being renovated. This Embraer 300 is mine. Mother arranged for it to be here.”
“Seriously?!” Enid stared as the other girl breezed past her into the cabin, a flight attendant greeting her with a smile.
“Good morning, Ms. Addams! I just spoke to the pilot and we are ready to depart as soon as your party is settled. Here is your list of inflight refreshment options as requested. Is there anything else I can get you ma’am?”
The attendant handed Wednesday a small laminated menu that the goth glanced at before gesturing to the stunned blonde. “Terrible morning to you as well, Lamentia. This is my guest Enid Sinclair. Enid, this is Lamentia Du Bellmonte. The best stewardess this side of grave soil.”
“Pleasure to meet you Ms. Sinclair,” came the warm reply.
“You too,” Enid waved nervously. Lamentia gestured to the menu in Wednesday’s hand.
“The plane comes equipped with a fully functioning galley. Please review what we have to offer and I’ll prepare your orders once we’ve reached cruising altitude.”
“I’ll have my usual quad over ice please, ristretto.”
“Of course, Ms. Addams; Ms.Sinclair I’ll give you time to make your decision while I take the Mr. Addams’ orders and go assist with final preparations.”
With a wave of her hand Wednesday dismissed the flight attendant and turned to her preferred Windowseat, settling back into the soft padding. Fester and Thing were busy pulling some kind of modified chess board out of the overhead compartment. Enid took the window seat opposite her, looking down at the menu in her hands. Wednesday took the opportunity to study her friend.
Enid was biting her lip, her leg shaking as one hand tugged at the end of her hair. She was nervous.
“Are you well?”
“ Yeah,” Enid looked up with a tentative smile. “This is just a bit of a big adjustment all at once. I’m much more used to two bed hotel rooms and economy class.”
“This doesn’t even begin to touch the treasure trove that is my family’s generational wealth.” Wednesday remarked, as the fasten seatbelt sign came on. Pulling Aunt Ophelia’s journal from her bag, she surveyed Enid over the top.“An Addams always expects the best. You’ll just have to adjust.”
Enid fastened her seatbelt trying to hide the blush that rose up her neck. If anyone asked she would say the swooping butterflies in her stomach were due to the plane’s sudden take off, and nothing to do with Wednesday insinuating she was an Addams now.
You’ve met my family before. They’re quite fond of you, in fact. There’s no need to be anxious.” Wednesday didn’t look up from the journal as the family hearse made its way slowly down the long gravel drive of the Addams estate. Fester could be heard giggling from where he demanded to ride in the trunk.
“You’re parents are awesome, I’m not anxious.” Enid bit back.
“The insistent bouncing of your leg says otherwise.”
“I’m not nervous about seeing your family again, I’ve just never been to your house before. And now I’m visiting for the first time under kinda weird circumstances.” Enid craned her head to get a better look as the towering Victoria mansion came into view. Thing crawled up on the dashboard, signing to Lurch as he drove.
“You would have visited regardless.” Wednesday began packing away her belongings. “My parents offered you a standing invitation to stay with us during break, before the Isaac Night incident.”
Enid tore her eyes away from the imposing building. “You were gonna invite me to your house?”
“I would have insisted you come, possibly threaten to kidnap you.” The Raven said it so casually, completely unaware of the impact the words held for the other girl. She continued;
“We both know how much you dread returning to San Francisco over school holidays. And while the Addams home is not to your usual rainbow glitter, and sunshine tastes; at least this way I could observe your misery up close. As opposed to reading about it through letters.”
Emotions welled up in Enid’s throat, the words she wanted to say unable to push past it. Wednesday wanted her in her home.
“I still haven’t met your little brother yet, or your dad’s mom.” She mumbled instead. “They could hate me.”
“Abuela adores werewolves. She lived with a pack in Brazil as a healer for a decade before meeting my Abuelo. And Pubert is four. You have the coloring of his favorite poison dart frog and razor sharp claws. Flash either of them your canines and you’ll be fine.”
Wednesday studied the other girl when the doors to the mansion flung open. Morticia and Gomez Addams appeared arm in arm, gliding down the stone steps in all their gothic perfection; Pugsley chasing after Pubert as the child jumped the stairs to run past them. The Raven’s eyes turned to hold Enid’s in their steady gaze, hand resting on the door.
“My family is nauseatingly excitable at the best of times and they have been anticipating your arrival for weeks. Brace yourself.”
Suddenly Wednesday was out of the car posture straight as a soldier about to march off into battle in the afternoon gloom, a steady hand offered back toward the other girl. Enid took a calming breath and accepted the hand, stepping out of the car. Lurch moved silently around to the back of the car, freeing Fester with an electric cackle.
“The victorious hunter returns!” Gomez cried, throwing up his hands before clasping them over his chest, crooked grin on full display. “My little Stormcloud, your mother and I never doubted you would be successful, and now look!”
“Mother, Father.” Wednesday nodded at her parents, turning her cheek for Morticia to bend down and drop an air kiss against. Pugsley-now carrying a wriggling four year old-tried and failed to tackle Fester who dodged with a quick volt blast.
Gomez turned to Enid wrapping his arms around her he lifted her up in a crushing hug. “Our Querida hombre-lobo, returned to us at last!”
Enid gasped from the sudden pressure around her ribs, Wednesday shot forward voice sharp as the blade that appeared in her hand.
”Father!” Gomez lowered the girl, eyes wide as Wednesday looked her over. Pale hand hovering inches away from where she knew bandages wrapped the other girl's ribs. Sharp eyes turned to her family. “Enid received significant injuries while stuck as a werewolf, from which she is still recovering. And as such, she is not to be manhandled.”
Enid sucked in a breath. Giving the raven a pained smile she touched the hovering hand gently, pressing it to make full contact with her ribs.
“Really Wends, I’m okay.” She turned to her friend's father who was watching with anxious eyes. “Don’t worry Mr. Addams, the hug felt really nice until it started hurting. Besides I’ve had worse.”
Morticia watched the exchange between her daughter and friend, with no small amount of interest before speaking up. Gently placing a hand on her husband’s shoulder.
“Please dear, you must call us Gomez and Morticia. And you’ll have to excuse my husband; an Addams is a passionate creature by nature.” Glancing at her daughter’s barely restrained scowl. “Though some might see fit to restrain that passion, it’s always there none the less. Simmering beneath the surface like an impending volcano.”
”We are so glad to see you safely returned to you true self, my little predator,” Gomez gently took one of Enid’s hands between both of his. Placing a paternal kiss to the back. ‘We were so very worried.”
Thanks Mr- I mean Gomez. I hope I haven’t put you guys out too much.”
”Nonsense, darling,” Morticia smiled kindly and so very, very gently. “When Wednesday informed us of what happened and her plans to retrieve you; Gomez and I were fully on board. We returned home at once and began making preparations for your arrival.”
A sharp tug at her pant leg made Enid look down, meeting dark eyes and a grin that was missing two front teeth. “Are you a real werewolf?”
“Sure am.” Enid flicked her wrist, displaying her natural claws, nail polish having chipped off weeks prior.
Pubert’s eyes widened in awe as his small hands grabbed her hand pulling it closer to his face.
“Magnifico!” He whispered. Wednesday pried the boys hands away.
“That’s enough, Beasty.” Her voice was firm but lacking his usual edge. Enid swore there was even affection hiding in her best friend’s eyes. “Puedes molestar a Enid Más tarde. If you’re particularly misbehaved I might even let you help me out Pugsley on the rack later.”
Pubert grinned up at his older sister, swinging off her hand. Morticia clasped her hands together at the sight. “You’re always so terrible with your brothers.”
Wednesday eyes snapped to her parent’s, scowled back in place. “If we’re done with the unnecessary exposition and grandstanding on feelings, I grow tired of standing in the drive like a visiting cousin forced to suffer through pleasantries. We’ve had a long journey and I’m sure Enid would like to rest and unpack before dinner.”
’Of course, of course. You must come in, out of this lovely weather. Wednesday, why don’t you show Enid to her room?” Morticia gently wrapped a maternal arm around Enid’s shoulder, the other hand hovering over her daughter's back as she guided the pair back toward the house, Pubert still clinging to his sister’s hand. “Dinner will be ready in a few hours, so you both have plenty of time to unpack and rest as your leisure. Once you’re ready Enid, we’ll have Thing give you the grand tour.”
“That sounds nice,” Enid smiled up at the woman as they crossed the entryway, the other’s trailing behind them. She caught sight of an elderly woman, leathered skin, gray haired, draped in a dark layered dress observing her from the top of a staircase. Eyes sharp as a hawk. Enid glanced away from just a moment and when she looked back, the woman was gone. Her eyes drifted back to Morticia who had turned to face them with a flair.
‘Well then I’ll leave you girls to it.” Morticia reached out and with all the grace of the dove her powers were named, for glided her fingers down the Werewolf’s cheek. “Welcome home, darling.”
Wednesday sighed and rolled her shoulders, settling back in the black wingback chair at the desk in her room. She looked out the large window and surveyed the all too familiar grounds of the Addams Estate. And for the first time in a month-in several months if she was being truthful-he allowed the knot of dread in her chest to loosen as she listened to the sound of her best friend puter around her room next door through the wall.
She had done it. Enid was back, Enid was safe.
She had allowed the werewolf a moment of privacy after the emotional outburst that had followed when she saw her new room. All of her belongings from Nevermore carefully, packed up, transported and unpacked in her new room by the Addams. All done with more care and love than her mother had ever shown for her things. Everything laid out exactly as she had left it.
After calming her best friend down and several reassurances from Enid that she would be all right; Wednesday showed the girl the secret passage in the wall connecting their rooms together, before excusing herself through it to unpack her own things.
Wednesday observed the leather bound tome open on her desk, eyes scanning over familiar passages. She leaned forward grabbed the quill from her desk and scratched out a quick notation. Only the sound of the nib against ancient parchment. She put the quill back in the ink jar when a soft knock came. Not from the door to her room, but the wall.
Wednesday turned as Enid emerged from the passage in the wall. She had changed into her favorite oversized hello kitty sweater, sleeves long enough to cover her hands and a pair of comfy joggers. Wednesday eyes lingered for what felt like far to long on the exposed skin of her shoulder as she scanned the other girl.
She seemed less on edge, like she had realized she was finally safe and had begun to settle. Something warm bloomed in Wednesday’s chest at the thought.
“I like your room,” Enid looked around with a soft smile. “It’s exactly what I expected. So perfectly you.”
“What else could it be?” Wednesday turned giving the werewolf her full attention. “Are you settling in well?”
“Yeah though it’s gonna be kinda weird having a room all to myself again.” Enid shrugged, looking anywhere but the raven. I’m not gonna lie, I was kinda bummed when I realized we’re aren’t sharing a room. Having you near, it makes the night easier.”
“The wall passage between our room can remain open if it will help. And…” Wednesday paused giving thought to her next words. “If you have need, our sleeping arrangements from last night can continue…for as long as you like.”
“Are you sure?” Blue eyes met brown.
“Have I ever be unsure about anything?” Was the counter.
“No,” Enid laughed. “You’re always sure, even when you’re wrong.”
“A rare occurrence.”
“Yeah, but it still happens.” Enid smiled a little brighter, tucking too long hair behind her ear. “Thing wants to give me the tour before dinner, wanna join?”
“Thing’s tours are inefficient.” Wednesday stood, adjusting the sleeves of her blouse. “He glosses over the dungeon and doesn’t spend nearly enough time in the graveyard. I’ll give you the tour, He may join us.”
“Perfect! I’ll tell him.” Enid beamed bouncing on her feet before departing back through the secret door.
Wednesday watched the other girl go, eyes sliding back to the book on her desk and the addition she had made in the margin. With a final glance she squared her shoulders, following her best friend. Leaving the book open on the desk.
Jillian Harcourt 1853
Liam MacKenzie 1897
Michael Gutierrez 1936
Ruby Walker 1981
Enid Sinclair 2024