Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Wednesday scowls as she stomps her way towards Ophelia hall. Thing scuttles onto her boot, tapping out a message. “I’m not sulking and I resent that accusation” Wednesday responds without slowing down. Thing taps out a response quickly. Wednesday pauses long enough that Thing taps again, getting her attention. She bends down to offer a hand for Thing to climb up to her shoulder. “Fine. We’ll make a brief stop at the cafeteria but only because I plan on making my writing time longer today.” Wednesday responds, changing her course. Thing gives a thumbs up from her shoulder, satisfied.

Loud music coming from the room doesn’t surprise Wednesday. The choice in music however is different from Enid’s usual pop music drivel. Wednesday quirks her eyebrow as she slowly opens the door. Wednesday considers herself prepared for anything thrown her way. Enid in a sports bra and loose sweats doing push ups in the middle of their shared room would fall in the realm of “anything”. Wednesday blinks as she stares at the muscles contracting on Enid’s back, she sets the two plates she was holding onto her desk. Thing jumps off Wednesday’s shoulder snapping her out of her trance at the sound of the smack. Wednesday takes measured steps towards the laptop blaring angry hip hop from its spot on Enid’s nauseatingly colorful bed. Thing drags a towel towards Enid whose head snaps up at the disruption of her music.

Enid rushes to her feet at the sudden appearance of her roommate. “Wednesday!” She exclaims, slinging the towel Thing offers around her neck and wiping her face. Enid’s hair is pulled up out of her face revealing the scars trailing from her eyebrow to her ear, a prize she won last year in her battle with the Hyde. Wednesday definitely doesn’t let her eyes linger on the scars or down to her admittedly toned stomach.

Enid coughs, “why aren’t you in class? It’s Monday.” Enid squeaks out trying not to cover herself.

“It was canceled, something about professor Karnstein’s wife having an accident, not that I see why that would matter” Wednesday responds in her signature monotone.

“Hummers?” Enid asks helpfully, shifting her weight to the balls of her feet.

“Eugene’s moms are in town keeping him rather busy. Since when do you exercise?” Wednesday levels her gaze at her roommate- a challenge.

Enid squares her shoulders taking a few steps towards Wednesday. She’s been doing that more this year than last- rising to Wednesday’s challenges. Something that isn’t lost on the shorter girl who stands her ground and crosses her arms.

“Since forever, working out is totes important to a healthy lifestyle” Enid clasps her hands behind her back, a jovial tone to her voice.

Wednesday narrows her eyes “you hate exercising, you always complain about the way the furs smell at lunch after frisbee golf practice”. “That’s because boys are gross and don’t know how to shower properly. What’s with the plates?” Enid responds quickly, changing the subject.

“I brought you chocolate cake from the cafeteria. You spend most of fencing class in the corner with blood-” Wednesday stops herself at Enid’s eyebrow quirk. “With Tanaka,” Wednesday finishes pursing her lips.

Enid brightness “I like to watch fencing more than actually participating. The chocolate cake is my favorite!” She takes a step towards the cake on the desk. Wednesday shifts to stand between Enid and her prize.

“I know. That’s why I got it for you. How long have you been doing this?” Wednesday continues her questions. Enid worries her bottom lip with her teeth, “dunno a few months I guess” she trails off meeting Wednesday’s glare. “I don’t know why it matters anyways,” Enid continues, eyes darting to the door. “Anyways I have to go shower,” She bops Wednesday’s nose with her index finger before twirling around quickly. Enid grabs her shower caddy near the door and walks out throwing a hurried “thanks for the cake Willa!” on her way out. Wednesday’s lip quirks. Thing clambers onto Wednesday’s bed and sits on the frame. “How long has this been going on?” she demands of her companion. Thing makes a gesture intended to be a shrug. Wednesday narrows her eyes. “If you’re lying to me I’m taking your favorite lotion” she spits out but there’s no venom behind it. Wednesday stares at the door half expecting the ray of sunshine to bound back through. She shakes her head slightly before sitting at her desk and uncovering her typewriter. Something was going on with Enid and Wednesday intended to get to the bottom of this mystery.

Chapter Text

Tuesdays are good days. Not that Wednesday would ever admit it of course. It just so happened that Tuesdays were the days that Enid and Wednesday’s schedules coincided the most. Which is perfect since Wednesday fully intended to get to the bottom of whatever was going on with Enid and she needed the time to observe her.

After her shower Enid returned to their dorm, lightly squeezed Wednesday’s shoulder as she grabbed the plate off of the smaller girl’s desk, and spent the night on her laptop completely ignoring the fact that there are weights under the colorful bed Wednesday had never seen before. It was infuriating really, why would Enid change suddenly? Was she sick? Cursed? Enid always tells Wednesday everything even when Wednesday pretends not to hear so why
wouldn’t Enid tell her about this?

“Howdy roomie!” Enid chirps as she sets her books down on the table next to Wednesday.

“Enid,” Wednesday responds, giving her a slight nod. Enid smiles brightly and sits down rummaging through her bag. Enid sets an apple on Wednesday’s side of the table. “You skipped breakfast this morning and we have fencing next,” Enid explains at the other girl's eyebrow quirk. Enid had become quite adept at understanding Addams speak, both Wednesday and Thing spoke in ways not immediately obvious, but Enid had taken it upon herself to learn their language. She did love talking after all and something as silly as a language barrier wasn’t going to stop the bright werewolf.

Wednesday shook her head slightly and took the apple. “It would be unfortunate if Barclay bested me today due to something as trivial as sustenance.” Enid grinned and looked to where Bianca and Xavier sat across the room. “Truly unfortunate,” she smiled at her roommate before turning in her chair to speak to Yoko and Divina who had taken their seats at the table behind them.

Wednesday had actually been at breakfast this morning, just chose not to sit with Enid and the group she had reluctantly began to spend more time with as of late. Choosing instead to sit at a table further away in the cafeteria to observe the blonde. Wednesday thoughtfully chewed on her apple as she went back through her observations from the morning. Enid didn’t seem that much different from the previous year. She seemed to have gained an inch or two over the break and there were the scars she tried to cover with makeup most days, but other than that Wednesday hadn’t noticed anything amiss. Maybe it was a “werewolf thing” as Enid had once put it when explaining her strength. Enid was already strong, why was she suddenly interested in working out? Wednesday had a lot of testing to do, perhaps she would make a board for her observations.

Herbology class was dreadfully dull now that the teacher wasn’t a killer intent on destroying Wednesday’s life. Professor Isely was an intelligent man, but the class posed no challenge. Perhaps it was due to the previous year’s debacle, but it felt like he was taking pity on the class. Wednesday spent the class observing her table partner from the corner of her eye instead. Twice she caught the gorgon boy staring at the girl, it settled something uncomfortable at the pit of Wednesday’s stomach. Interesting.

The rest of class creeped on uneventfully, Wednesday’s fingers itched to get to fencing. When class finally ended she stopped herself from rushing out of her seat. Having a saber in her hand always helps Wednesday’s thoughts organize themselves. The class filed out of the room, Wednesday hated crowds and tried her best to navigate the corridors avoiding being touched. She chanced a glance behind her, seeing the top of Enid’s head in the crowd a few feet behind her. Thing pops out of Wednesday’s bag to survey the crowd as Wednesday reaches the stairs down to the first floor. Thing pulls on the strap to the bag as he notices the ball whizzing through the air. Wednesday easily dodges to the left, turning to acknowledge Thing before he goes back to his hiding spot.

“Sorry Wednesday!” is thrown her way, Wednesday scowls in the direction of the voice going down the stairs quickly. Too quickly, somewhere up ahead a student spills the contents of their bag all over the stairs causing a traffic jam. Wednesday tries to go around, but ends up stepping on a discarded pencil and losing her balance. Before she could right herself someone’s arm was around her waist keeping her from falling forward.

Wednesday grunts grabbing the offending arm. “Don’t kill me, you were going to fall,” Wednesday lets go of the arm as it’s removed and turns around. Enid gives her an apologetic smile. Wednesday narrows her eyes at the taller girl “how did you?,” Wednesday breathes out trying to remember how far back Enid was when she last saw her. The crowd continues to push past the two of them going up and down the stairs. Enid shrugs before walking around Wednesday down the stairs. Wednesday follows trying to do the math in her head.

Coach Vlad nods at the two as they come through the door, Enid immediately skipping towards the back of the gym to join Yoko. Wednesday makes her way to Bianca still thinking about the stairwell. Bianca raises a perfectly sculpted eyebrow at her sparring partner, Wednesday ignores her.

Fifteen minutes later everyone has changed and broken off into their sparring pairs coach Vlad walking around and instructing. Wednesday and Bianca get into position.

Bianca lunges first, Wednesday dodging easily and turning to counter. Bianca parries and continues her attack. Wednesday is faster, but stays on the defense. Across the room Ajax tosses his saber in the air trying to imitate a move Wednesday pulled off a few weeks prior. The saber clatters to the ground and Enid and Yoko stop their spar to laugh. “Point Bianca. Mr. Petropolus! That saber is not a toy!”

Coach Vlad makes his way across the room as Bianca lifts her mask. She levels a look at Wednesday who returns a glare taking her own mask off. “What’s up with you today Addams?” Bianca asks, shifting her weight to one side. “I don’t know what you’re referring to” Wednesday responds, face passive. “Be so serious right now. You’re not even trying, it’s like you want me to beat you”

Wednesday scoffs at the statement. “It’s like you’re distracted by something, or someone..” Bianca follows Wednesday's line of sight to Enid and Yoko goofing off on the other side of the gym. Bianca smirks, “spill goth girl, what’s going on in that demented head of yours?”

Wednesday snaps her attention back to Bianca and narrows her eyes considering something. She seems to make up her mind before scoffing.

“Like you deserve to know what I’m thinking.”

Bianca laughs. If she didn’t know Wednesday as well as she did she would be offended.
“Fine, maybe I’ll go over and ask Enid since I suspect it has something to do with her” Bianca challenges, grinning as Wednesday’s mouth twitches.

“I caught her doing push ups in our room. It seems she’s taken up exercising” Wednesday caves.

“Who? Enid? She hates sweating” Bianca responds incredulously.

“I’m well aware, Barclay, which is why I know there must be something else going on,” Wednesday continues, her gaze returning to Enid who is half-heartedly sparring Yoko now.

Bianca looks from Enid to Wednesday and grins letting her saber hang limply by her side. “Maybe she’s got her eye on someone and trying to impress them with her hot summer bod,” Bianca breaks Wednesday out of her trance.

“It’s fall,” Wednesday deadpans. Bianca shrugs “she had all summer to work out while thinking about someone to show off to, she’s been talking Ajax up a lot lately,” she grins watching Wednesday’s hand tense on her saber.

“They broke up. She told me,” Wednesday is definitely not defensive. Bianca purses her lips “well she does tell you everything huh.” It was a low blow, but Bianca was bored of this game and someone needed to light a fire for Wednesday to do something and who was she if not a firestarter.

Wednesday silently returned to her position sliding her mask back over her face and lifting her saber. Bianca smirked, sinking into her stance and lowering her mask.

This time it was Wednesday who attacked in quick succession. Bianca parried and twirled away as Wednesday continued her onslaught of strikes rolling under Bianca's counter jab. Bianca whips around as Wednesday goes in for the kill.

“Point Wednesday,” coach Vlad announces.

The girls return to their starting positions. Again Wednesday strikes out first, Bianca easily countering and starting their dance.

“Oh hey Enid!” Bianca exclaims brightly parrying Wednesday’s blow. Wednesday stutters in her attack for half a second. That’s all Bianca needs.

“Point Bianca”

“That’s my win, Addams. Where does that put us?,” Bianca sweetly asks. Wednesday removes her mask “ 204 to 203. A dirty win Barclay I’m almost impressed,” Wednesday glares. Bianca gives an exaggerated curtsey. “And for my next trick,” Bianca gives Wednesday a conspiratory smile before looking across the gym. “Enid! Switch partners with me I’m getting bored of beating your emo girl let me beat your goth girl now,” she yells.

Wednesday’s eyes widen slightly “see you around Addams,” Bianca throws out sauntering towards Yoko. Wednesday was going to kill her and make siren sushi. Her saber was actually pretty sharp, she could take off the tip. Maybe she shouldn’t murder Bianca in front of the entire fencing class.

“Go easy on me Willa, I’m not good like you or Bianca,” Enid was suddenly in front of her mask under her arm.

“Do you like sushi?” Wednesday’s mouth betrayed her. Damn.

“Uh, not really. Not a fan of raw fish,” Enid responds confused.

“You’re a wolf Enid,” Wednesday deadpans. Enid shrugs “not all the time I’m not.” Wednesday hums in response, getting into her fighting stance. Enid gets to her side of the strip readying herself.

It’s over before Enid knows what happened. Enid blinked and there was the smaller girl, the tip of her saber poking her chest.

Enid gasped “no fair! I told you to go easy on me!” She was smiling in spite of her words. Wednesday’s lip quirked the tiniest of smirks, “it wouldn’t be fair to you if I went easy, you’d never get better. You’re a wolf Enid,” Wednesday repeated her earlier statement. Enid lifted an eyebrow in question, Wednesday gave her a small nod returning to her starting position.

Enid sank lower into her fighting stance making a conscious effort to not drop to all fours and let her claws out. When Wednesday attacked Enid met her lunge with her own, their sabers clashing. Wednesday was faster but Enid had raw strength on her side. Enid shoved the smaller girl back with her saber. Wednesday quickly lunged again trying to get behind the girl. Enid stepped to the side and lunged again. Their sabers met again and again, Enid not giving Wednesday the chance to recoup. Wednesday feints an attack and finally gets past Enid’s attack touching the other girl's shoulder.

“You’ve gotten better Enid, is swordplay part of your new exercise routine?” Wednesday says exercise like a curse word. Enid shrugs ignoring the jab “not really. I’m just copying what I’ve seen you do,” she responds, returning to start position.

Wednesday doesn’t give her the chance to use her strength again, getting in Enid’s space as soon as they start. Enid yelps and shoves her shoulder forward knocking Wednesday down.

“Ohmygod Wednesday I’m sorry,” Enid takes a step forward walking into the tip of Wednesday's saber.

“You could have won Enid. It was a nefarious play too. We’ll make an Addams out of you yet.” Wednesday stands and brushes herself off before nodding to Enid and heading to the locker rooms leaving Enid dumbfounded.

Yoko and Bianca stand nearby watching the interaction. “When she does it it’s ‘nefarious’ when I do it it’s ‘dirty’ truly incredible how dim she is,” Bianca laments. Yoko pats her shoulder “I’m so glad I have a new co captain to this disaster ship, but I haven’t forgotten your goth jab” Yoko shoves Bianca laughing.

Later that night Wednesday sits on her bed braiding her damp hair as Enid softly hums along to her music while studying.

“You’re not listening to your normal music,” Wednesday breaks the silence.

Enid doesn’t look up from her book, the tip of her pen in her mouth. “I have a lot of playlists Wednesday, this one you hate the least,'' she murmurs the last part almost as an afterthought. Enid’s whole body freezes, her eyes never leaving the pages in front of her.

Wednesday blinks at Enid, her hands stilling in her hair. She feels spiders crawling all over her body. Wednesday swallows words she can’t fully comprehend and finishes her last braid. She moves to sit at her desk, her back to her roommate. “I do hate this playlist the least”. Enid lets out a breath as Wednesday begins her own homework. Interesting.

Chapter Text

The next few weeks prove fruitless in Wednesday’s investigation. Enid seems like her usual bright self and Wednesday has very few things to add to her observation list. Aside from a small spat in the courtyard with a werewolf, Enid has displayed no aggression or anything resembling something other than her syrupy sweet personality. Unfortunately Wednesday was too far to hear when the disagreement happened, and once she got close all she was able to witness was Enid returning to her normal easy smile and skipping away leaving a dumbfounded boy in her wake. Thrice Wednesday attempted to catch Enid exercising like she did the first time, but either Enid changed her routine or was suddenly acutely aware of Wednesday’s whereabouts at all times because Wednesday had not been able to catch her off guard even when she skipped class entirely.

Bianca was no help either, telling Wednesday she “truly sees no difference with Enid” and “maybe she was just trying a tik tok trend and would get over it.” Wednesday didn’t understand tiktok or any of Enid’s social media dependency, but her gut told her it wasn’t social media making her roommate suddenly decide to work out. So in the end letting Bianca know about her investigation only led to Bianca teasing her in fencing about trading partners and sending her looks Wednesday couldn’t quite decipher in classes they shared. Truly vexing.

The irksome turn of the investigation had led to Wednesday replaying every interaction with Enid in her head every night to scrutinize it from every possible angle. Sleepless nights were not something new to the raven, sleep had always seemed trivial to Wednesday at the best of times and the threat of losing her mind to sleep deprivation was thrilling. After Crackstone and Goody however, Wednesday found herself plagued by night terrors she couldn’t even enjoy. She would wake up covered in sweat and confused, unable to grasp what it was she had been previously dreaming about. The ghost of a dagger stabbing her side sending pain from the scar and throughout her body. When that would happen Wednesday found it most beneficial to go over her day in her mind until she could fall asleep again.

Wednesday had just finished replaying lunch, observing how Enid had casually scooted Xavier away when he sat slightly too close to Wednesday when the peace of their dark room is disturbed.

Enid is not quiet in any aspect of her life, sleeping is no exception. Wednesday had, for the most part, become accustomed to her soft growls and occasional sleep talk, but those soft growls and sleep talk had increasingly turned into deeper growls and strangled screams cut off by sharp intakes of breath. Enid gasps awake as Wednesday closes her eyes and pretends to be asleep, not wanting to intrude during Enid’s vulnerable state. It’s a dance they’d done a few times since returning to school and Wednesday was content playing her part.

Tonight Enid changes the script however, she stands in a rush pulling on her sneakers and grabbing a discarded hoodie from the ground by her bed before quietly climbing out the window onto the balcony. Wednesday purses her lips, eyes still closed, trying to hear Enid’s movements. She hears the door to the stairs close before she’s up grabbing her own shoes and jacket and making to follow.

Enid is halfway down the stairs when Wednesday starts her own descent trying to stay as quiet as possible, not that she thinks Enid could even hear her in her frenzied state, but still one could never be too careful.

When Wednesday reaches the door leading to the courtyard she realizes she’s probably never going to catch up to Enid and the other girl could have easily slipped through any of the doors leading to other floors along the way, but she knows Enid. Wednesday frowns at the empty courtyard before sprinting out towards the woods.

She’s being loud and reckless, but Wednesday can’t find it in herself to care all she knows is she has a hunch and for the first time she hopes she’s wrong. She has no rational explanation for it, but not for the first time in her Nevermore career she finds herself being pulled deep into the woods towards Crackstone’s crypt. The burning in her lungs matching the burning in her side, she pushes on searching for any sign of Enid.

The door to the crypt is thrown open, but the inside is dark- the ritualistic candles from last time missing. Wednesday gingerly kicks the broken padlock in front of the door to the side as she peeks inside. Her stomach flips and she pushes bile back down trying not to think about the last time she had seen the inside of the crypt.

Wednesday takes measured breaths and slowly turns around making a conscious effort to not touch anything. She looks out towards the woods seeing the predestined path in her mind’s eye. She grits her teeth and wills her feet to move forward. She stops her slow steps as her boot meets something hard in the brush. Enid’s cell phone sits among the leaves confirming what Wednesday already knew. She leans down to grab the device and is immediately overcome with a vision that leaves her reeling backwards.

Enid sits on the ground in a clearing, she seems hurt. Wednesday approaches trying to find the source of the injury- she probably tripped and sprained her ankle. Something growls behind them and Wednesday whips her head around half expecting Tyler in his hyde form. Enid looks scared, whatever growled is staring at them from the underbrush nearby. Wednesday tries to help Enid stand, but she turns to smoke as she reaches out.

Wednesday jolts up.

“Enid!” The name is ripped out of her throat without her permission as she grabs the cell phone she dropped and charges forward knowing the way. A small voice in her head chastises her recklessness, but Wednesday’s ears are roaring, straining to hear whatever is after Enid.

She breaks into the unfortunately familiar clearing, Enid laid near the broken tree trunk cradling her ankle. Before Wednesday can warn the other girl a mountain lion leaps forward out of the shadows. Enid’s eyes snap to Wednesday and narrow as the smaller girl reaches for the knife she hides in her boot. Enid gives a small shake of her head, her eyes hardening before slowly scooting around to face away from Wednesday.

The mountain lion pounces on Enid and Wednesday rushes forward. Enid folds her body forward with such speed Wednesday almost misses it. The mountain lion stutters in its attack as Enid leaps forward, claws extended catching the cat around the neck and growling loudly.

Wednesday freezes where she stands watching Enid’s back as the young werewolf throws the bigger predator backwards. The mountain lion regains its footing and looks past Enid towards Wednesday. Wednesday flashes her knife up, but Enid is already crouched low hiding Wednesday from the attacker. The mountain lion seems to look between Enid and Wednesday letting out a low growl before stalking off into the woods.

Wednesday blinks, the adrenaline from the run and subsequent attack draining from her body all at once.

Enid rounds on her, eyes dark and hard.

“What were you thinking!” She shouts advancing on Wednesday. Wednesday allows herself to be confused for half a second before pushing all of her fury forward.

“What was I thinking? What were you thinking running out in the middle of the night! Do you have a death wish Sinclair because believe me almost dying in that madman’s crypt isn’t nearly as enjoyable as you would think!” Wednesday bites out.

All at once the fight leaves Enid and her eyes return to their soft blue, her mouth a thin line.

“We should get back home before that giant cat decides to return with buddies,” she walks past Wednesday towards the school.

Wednesday clenches her hands unwilling to let her rage go lest a different emotion take its place. She runs forward stepping in front of Enid’s path- stopping her in her tracks.

“Wednes-”

“No! You don’t get to just walk away from this without any explanations!”

Enid opens her mouth to respond, Wednesday glares before continuing.

“First it was the exercising, then the stairwell. I keep catching these glimpses of something, but deciding to get up in the middle of the night to what? Take a stroll down memory lane? What is going on with you? You tell me everything so why not this?” Wednesday ignores the slight shake in her voice as she reaches the end of her tirade, all of the fight in her body leaving as the exhaustion settles into her bones. Must be from lack of sleep.

Enid steels herself before looking around, “can we talk about this back in our room please? I was serious about that mountain lion coming back.” A logical request. Wednesday gives her no response and simply starts walking again. Enid quickly catches up and an uneasy silence settles over the two as they make their way back towards campus.

Enid is the first to break the silence.

“You know I wasn’t trying to ‘take a stroll down memory lane’ as you put it,” she makes air quotes before continuing. “I just- had a particularly vivid nightmare and I-” she hesitates before pushing on in a quieter voice. “I just had to make sure that's all, I guess.”

Wednesday doesn’t look at her continuing her march towards campus. Her expression remains blank as she responds. “I thought we weren’t discussing this until we were back in the dorm.” Wednesday’s voice is monotone, but the ice around her seems to melt. Enid gives a tight smile to the side of the smaller girl's face.

The rest of the journey continues in silence, Enid arguing with herself over what to say and Wednesday blatantly ignoring the fact that she can practically hear the other girl thinking. Soft music is playing from Wednesday’s gramophone as they enter their room. Thing sways slightly sitting on the edge of Enid’s nightstand, waiting for the girls to return.

Wednesday glares at him before yanking her sweater off and stomping towards the bathroom to clean herself off. Enid grins at the sight before toeing her shoes off and taking a seat at the edge of her bed swaying along with Thing trying to organize her thoughts. Wednesday returns and silently takes a seat at the edge of her own bed facing the other girl. Thing jumps down between them before scurrying off to his makeshift bed among Enid’s plushies. The distance between the two girls seems to grow and the silence becomes suffocating.

Wednesday speaks first, “what did you mean by you ‘had to make sure’” Her expression is passive, but it doesn’t quite reach her eyes which bore into Enid with such intensity Enid has to look away to gather her thoughts.

Enid clears her throat, “I sometimes have nightmares about that night.” Wednesday gives her a slight nod encouraging her to continue. “I was scared I didn’t reach you in time and I had to make sure you weren’t out there bleeding to death or being attacked by Tyler,” she spits out the name like a curse word.

Wednesday’s eyebrows furrow as she responds, “I was in my own bed Enid, you could have simply looked over.” There’s genuine confusion in Wednesday’s words, she’s not accusing or insulting simply wishing to understand.

Enid huffs out a small laugh, “I think my wolf instincts took over in the nightmare I don’t really remember leaving the room.” She shrugs slightly looking at her feet. Wednesday lets the words hang between them, Enid can practically hear the gears turning.

“Have your wolf instincts been taking over a lot lately?” Wednesday asks, her attention suddenly going to the space under Enid’s bed. Enid quirks her head slightly, thinking. “Uh sort of? My wolf was always a part of me, but after the shift I guess it’s just been louder,” She tries to explain as best she can, forced to analyze her own behavior.

“Does that include faster healing?” Wednesday nods to Enid’s foot. Enid looks at her foot confused, “faster heal- oh! My foot was never hurt in the forest. I just heard you coming and I needed to give the mountain lion an easier target,” she shrugs nonchalantly.

Wednesday’s mouth snaps shut, anger bubbling up her throat. The observations start clicking into place in Wednesday’s mind, a larger puzzle becoming clearer.

“Enid, why did you suddenly start working out?” The question is given like a command and Enid knows she can’t worm her way out of it this time. Enid takes a deep breath before gripping onto her bed and staring at her lap.
“I needed to be stronger for next time,” she lets the statement slip through her teeth, refusing to look at Wednesday.

When Wednesday doesn’t respond, Enid takes a deep breath and continues. “So I’m getting stronger, faster, becoming more intune with my wolf. That way next time maybe you won’t get hurt, and-” Enid clears her throat and stares at Wednesday’s boots on the floor. “Maybe the nightmares will stop,” the last part comes out strangled and Wednesday scowls at the wall next to her bed.

“I have class in four hours,” Wednesday doesn’t acknowledge Enid’s confession and gets into her bed crossing her arms across her chest effectively ending the conversation.

Enid nods silently before getting into her own bed. After a few minutes Wednesday breaks the silence in a voice so quiet Enid wouldn’t have heard it if she didn’t have enhanced hearing.

“I have nightmares too,” Wednesday’s voice is small, she continues to face the ceiling.

Enid turns to face her roommate. “I know,” she responds softly.

“Goodnight Willa,” Enid breathes out before turning back over in her bed.

Wednesday closes her eyes and steadies her breathing, “goodnight Enid.”

Chapter Text

“This is a horrible idea,” Bianca grimaces crouching lower in the bushes. Yoko runs her hand through her hair next to her. “Why did we agree to this again?” She stands and starts pacing. The woods near the hummer’s shed are quiet, the peace broken by the vampire’s footsteps. Divina stands and pulls Yoko back down to sit with her and Bianca.

“Because Enid and Wednesday need help,” Divina responds. “Mentally. They need help mentally,” Bianca adds, rolling her eyes. Yoko glares over Divina’s head at the siren. Bianca grins back, “Wednesday never tells anyone anything but she went out of her way to practically rant to me about our little werewolf the other day and let’s be honest it’s not a secret how they follow each other around the school like they’re scared the other will disappear.”

“I think it’s sweet,” Divina responds. “Oh please, how sweet is it to have Enid crying in your room about Ms. Doom and gloom, Yoko?” Bianca fires back. Yoko lets out an exasperated sigh “I truly thought it would get better once she realized she wasn’t straight, but if anything it might be worse.” Divina shoves Yoko playfully, “be nice, it’s not easy realizing you’re in love with your best friend.”

Yoko frowns, “I am nice, I let her rant and bitch and gush with minimal snark. I love that girl, she's just kind of thick.” Bianca scoffs, “Enid’s too thick to do anything and Wednesday is too stubborn to acknowledge her own feelings. They are truly a match made in hell.”

~~~

Wednesday frowns as she steps out into the cold. She hates relying on other people, too many chances for failure that have nothing to do with herself. She had truly wanted to go find the mountain lion that had found her before, but Thing had adamantly refused, letting her know he would not be made bait for a mountain lion. Baby

So instead she had to ask Barclay and the nightshades to help her execute her plan. It left a bad taste in her mouth.
~~~

“You want us to do what?!” Bianca’s screech reverberated off of the nightshade library walls. Wednesday’s stare didn’t waver.

“I’m asking for the nightshades to attack Enid and I”

Yoko scoffed from behind Bianca, “I’m not attacking my best friend, no matter how many times she makes me listen to her favorite Taylor Swift album, and you’re her-” Yoko waves her arm around gesturing at Wednesday, “-roommate.”

Someone coughs behind her.

“Which unfortunately means I couldn’t in good conscience drain you of whatever cold blood runs through your veins,” Yoko continues lowering her glasses to make eye contact with the shorter girl.

Wednesday rolls her eyes.

“If I truly believed you imbeciles actually posed a real threat to Enid, I wouldn’t be asking. As it stands I don’t think any of you could even land a hit,” Wednesday picks a piece of lint off of her dark sweater.

“Doing a stellar job of asking for a favor there addams,” Bianca retorts, lifting an eyebrow.

“Why?,” Divina’s voice is soft, “Why do you need us to attack you?”

Wednesday stares at the stairs leading out of the library like she would rather make an escape than continue the conversation.

“I need to prove something to Enid,” Wednesday grits out.

“Bullshit emo girl, if you want us to come at you with rapiers and arrows drawn, we’re going to need more than a vague answer,” Bianca squares her shoulders and crosses her arms.

“I don’t need to know the details of the attack- in fact I would prefer not to know,” Wednesday responds easily.

Bianca stares Wednesday down. Wednesday does not huff out a breath because that would be decidedly inelegant and an Addams stays collected and calm even when asking for help.

Yoko, Divina, and Ajax take a step closer to Wednesday as if cornering her into answering the question.

“I have to show Enid I don’t need to be protected and this is the only simulation of danger I could develop on such short notice that didn’t involve a wild animal.” Wednesday finally answers staring through Bianca.

Bianca and Yoko share a look before looking back at Wednesday.

“If we were to go through with your insane plan, not saying that we are, what’s in it for us?” Yoko questions firmly.

Wednesday clenches her jaw, “What are your demands?”

“You have to come to our next super fun movie night!” Ajax makes his presence known grinning.

“I would rather eat rusty nails,” Wednesday dead pans.

Ajax pouts as Bianca, Yoko and Divina share a look before nodding resolutely.

“Movie night or you find someone else to ‘pretend attack’ you” Bianca’s statement is smug and Wednesday’s gaze goes up to the ceiling.

“Fine, but I don’t want a pretend attack; it needs to be as real as possible,” Wednesday accepts.

“Sure sure,” Bianca responds easily, dismissing Wednesday to plan.

~~~

Wednesday clenches and unclenches her jaw as she walks towards the hummer’s apiary. Enid hums to herself besides Wednesday, hands behind her back.

“It’s so nice of you to check on the bees while Eugene’s studying for his midterm,” Enid grins beside her.

“I have a responsibility as a hummer, it’s not kindness Enid it’s an obligation,” Wednesday responds looking towards the treeline.

Enid’s grin widens “Whatever Willa, you’re a total softie- don’t worry I won’t tell anyone. Wouldn’t want to tarnish your reputation,” She whispers the last part exaggeratedly.

Wednesday pauses briefly at the statement furrowing her brow, “please, like I care what the feeble-minded masses think of me,” Wednesday scoffs continuing her trek. Enid giggles skipping along.

The moon hangs low in the sky illuminating the area as the girls approach the apiary.

“Are you going to be waking up the bees?” Enid whispers trying not to disturb the bees. Wednesday purses her lips schooling her face into a neutral expression. “I’m just checking on them, I don’t think they’ll mind,” she tries to put Enid’s mind at ease.

“But-” Enid cuts herself off, tilting her head and throwing her arm out in front of Wednesday stopping her in her path. The shorter girl grunts and pulls a knife from her boot.

“We’re not alone,” Enid’s expression is hard scanning the trees surrounding them.

An arrow flies towards Wednesday’s head, Enid claws it out of the air as Wednesday ducks under her arm running towards the woods in the direction the arrow came from.

Enid growls and runs after her, knocking arrows out of the air as she goes. Wednesday dodges a few more arrows before throwing her knife into the bushes. The bush hisses as Enid catches up sniffing the air.

Wednesday takes a step back producing another knife as Bianca jumps down from a tree branch above, rapier in hand.

“Bee?!” Enid shouts briefly straightening out from her crouched position, “Wait-”

Wednesday steps in front of Enid as Yoko emerges from a bush to stand next to Bianca with her own rapier.

“YOKO?!” Enid shrieks, Wednesday grimaces before pulling a second knife out and repositioning herself to keep both Yoko and Bianca in sight.

“What’s going on?” Enid’s voice has a hard edge to it, but Wednesday steps forward and slashes at Bianca before anyone can answer. The arrows start flying again and Enid shakes her head before dodging and returning to her slightly crouched position keeping an eye on Wednesday as Yoko and Bianca start attacking in tandem.

Enid growls before rushing forward, plucking an arrow headed for the back of Wednesday’s head and snapping it in half.

“I was going to dodge that, Sinclair,” Wednesday assures Enid cooly, continuing to parry and dodge Yoko and Bianca’s onslaught of strikes.

“Shut up,” Enid growls out, placing herself in between Wednesday and Yoko.

“Oooh Kitty’s got claws!” Yoko grins pointing her weapon at Enid. The werewolf glares as she swipes at the rapier.

Wednesday glances at Enid as Bianca jabs towards Wednesday’s face. Wednesday dodges slightly, the rapier catching a bit of her cheek. Bianca grins, “focus Addams,” she throws out smugly, cutting her eyes towards Enid and Yoko. Wednesday glares before throwing a knife into the branches above. Divina yelps and drops her bow, “I’m out!” She shouts down.

Yoko glances up towards the tree “you good?” she shouts up.

“I’m fine!” Divina reassures her quickly.

Enid takes the distraction as an opportunity and attempts to grab Yoko's weapon. Yoko jumps back quickly, returning her attention to Enid. “Nice try kid,” she grins exposing her fangs, “vampire senses remember?”

Enid rolls her eyes before lunging forward. Yoko slashes at Enid, but Enid anticipates it and catches the blade between her hands. Yoko’s eyes widen “what the-” she mutters as Enid snaps the blade in half and throws the tip of it towards Wednesday and Bianca effectively separating them. The tip of the blade sinks into a tree splitting it in half.

“Enough!” Enid roars.

Ajax yelps as he falls from the branches above.

Enid glares at everyone in turn, “What is going on here? Someone is going to tell me or next time I wolf out I’m coming for all of you.” The threat is empty, but her voice is hard.

Bianca raises her hands, dropping the rapier. “Nope! Not dealing with this,” She pointedly makes eye contact with Wednesday. “This wasn’t part of the deal Addams, we did our part- we’re out!”

Divina jumps down from her perch above and helps Ajax to his feet. Yoko gives Enid an apologetic smile before joining Divina and Bianca and making their way back towards the school.

“Cowards” Wednesday murmurs as they leave.

Enid takes a deep breath before rounding on her roommate.

“What deal was Bianca talking about?” Her tone is harsh, pinning Wednesday to her spot.

Wednesday glares towards where Bianca and the others exited the woods.

“I do actually need to check on the bees,” Wednesday walks towards the hummer’s shed.

“Wednesday,” Enid says her name like a warning following behind.

Wednesday growls under her breath, resigning herself to the conversation.

“You were worried for my safety the other night, I was simply trying to prove there was no need to worry about me,” She states calmly. The two enter the shed and Wednesday busies herself checking hives.

Enid’s shoulders drop, the anger leaving her body. “You had our friends attack you to prove that you can defend yourself?” Enid’s expression is unreadable but her tone is incredulous.

Wednesday keeps her back to Enid but her hands still. “I don’t need anyone to think they have to go out of their way to defend me. I’ve been perfectly capable of defending myself for as long as I’ve been able to hold a knife.” She turns and meets Enid’s gaze finally. “I don’t need a bodyguard Enid.”

Enid’s mouth forms a thin line as she thinks before she throws her hands up.

“You think that the reason I started working out is just so I can follow you around like a guard dog?!” She exclaims. Wednesday doesn’t respond, instead sitting down on a small couch shoved into the corner and glaring in the direction of the dorms. After uncle Fester’s unexpected drop in last year Wednesday had added the couch to the shed. It also made it easier to stay out of the dorms if Wednesday were to investigate something particularly gruesome. Enid starts pacing.

“God Wednesday this isn’t some faux-chivalrous excuse to control you! I simply can’t have a repeat of last year! I don’t know why you can’t understand that I fucking care about you!” The statement hangs in the air- Wednesday clenches her jaw trying to work through her own thoughts. Realization sparks through Enid’s eyes briefly, but she’s committed at this point and barrels on through gritted teeth. “We both almost died last year, you more so than me and I know we never talked about it, but when Thing came to find me that night I just ran. I couldn’t think, I just knew you were out there somewhere alone with a psychopath-”

Wednesday interjects “psychopaths actually make up-”

Enid glares at her
“Don’t”

Wednesday’s mouth returns to a tight line not used to Enid’s rage. Enid takes a shaky breath before continuing.

“Wednesday I was running towards death. If I hadn’t shifted we would’ve died. You were hurt and somehow I don’t think this-” Enid extends her colorful claws, “would have stopped Tyler in his rampaging hyde form”

“I never asked you to come save me,” Wednesday spits out, but her eyes soften slightly attempting to hide pain.

Enid kneels in front of the shorter girl who has decided a spot on the wall is the most interesting thing in the world.

“Wednesday look at me”

Wednesday scowls and refuses to face her roommate.

“Wednesday I need you to look at me” Enid slowly reaches towards Wednesday’s chin giving her a choice to refuse Enid’s touch. Wednesday closes her eyes as Enid gently moves her chin to face her. Wednesday opens her eyes searching Enid’s face, always analyzing.

Enid gives her a soft smile and brings her hand to sit next to Wednesday on the couch. Wednesday tries not to miss the contact.

“I don’t regret running out to find you. I would do it again every time.” She punctuates the declaration with a grin that pulls on the scars across the side of her face. Wednesday sucks in air through her gritted teeth.

“My point is that I’m not always going to be able to wolf out to help and I know that there will be more dangerous situations. I was nothing but a burden at the Gate’s house and if I hadn’t wolfed out I would have been a burden that night as well,” Enid’s voice trembles and Wednesday finds her hand reaching out of its own accord. She catches a tear as it slides down Enid’s face. They both stare at Wednesday’s hand reaching between them, a heavy silence blanketing them. Enid takes a slow breath before reaching her hand out to catch Wednesday’s hand, her eyes never leaving Wednesday’s. Enid was always braver than herself Wednesday silently muses as Enid intertwines their fingers and sets their hands between them.

“I’m not deluding myself into thinking I’m going to be your hero Wednesday,” Enid’s voice is small but sure. When did Enid become so well spoken?

“I need to be ready to stand by your side the next time we’re in a life threatening situation, I can’t always hide behind my wolf or your many knives,” She gives a watery chuckle and a tight smile.

For what feels like the first time in her life Wednesday is at a loss for words. Relationships were always a barter in Wednesday’s eyes. Her family loved her in exchange for a legacy and she loved them in exchange for food and shelter. Tyler had wanted a relationship with her in exchange for information and she kept him around for the same reason. Bianca was a good sparring partner, Eugene regrettably reminded her of Pugsley and she felt a responsibility for him. But Enid hadn’t asked for anything from Wednesday from the beginning.

Wednesday didn’t need someone to pity her or protect her and Enid was simply asking to stand beside her, not asking for anything in return but her company. Feelings she can’t name start forming in the pit of her stomach and creeping around her body like spiders.

“You’re incredibly brave Enid.” Wednesday struggles to form words to keep up with her mouth.
“You’re also incredibly reckless to want to continue by my side after I’ve proven there will be more dangerous situations in the future,” Enid pouts in response. Wednesday slightly squeezes Enid’s fingers.

“And I’m incredibly honored that you would continue by my side despite that information. I’ve never understood the need for relationships that weren’t for personal gain, but you’ve forced me to see that some people are worth trusting.”

Enid’s breath hitches audibly. Wednesday gives her a small smile before continuing, “but I really don’t need you to protect me because you feel some responsibility for me.”

Enid drops Wednesday’s hand and stands up, throwing her hands in the air.

“I don’t feel a ‘responsibility’ for you Wednesday!”

Wednesday stands getting in the way of Enid’s pacing. “You changed your hobbies to include working out because you felt the need to make yourself stronger for my benefit,” Wednesday’s voice is monotone, but challenging.

Enid runs her hands through her hair, “I’m not working out because I feel like I need to protect you. I already told you that,” Enid’s visibly frustrated.

Wednesday frowns, “you’re getting stronger because we’re going to face enemies together, that’s been established but what I’m saying is that you don’t have to feel the need to fight in order to keep me as your friend.”

Enid growls and looks up begging for help from any entities in the world.

“I don’t want to fight by your side because you're my friend or my roommate or-” Enid shakes her head trying to get her thoughts together.

“You’re not understanding me Wednesday,” Enid finally says.

“Then make me understand Enid, I’m not good at this,” Wednesday gestures between them, “I don’t exactly have a lot of practice with interpersonal-” Wednesday’s cut off as Enid invades her space.

For the second time in her life Wednesday’s mind goes blank as Enid cups her face gently. Wednesday idly muses how Enid seems to have that effect on her.

Enid gently presses her lips to Wednesday’s and no visions break her back like her first kiss with Tyler. Wednesday feels a warmth flood her chest as Enid takes a step back, questioning look in her eyes.

Wednesday is frozen in place, she stares at Enid, her thoughts coming back in a flood of sound unable to make any sense.

“Shit,” Enid breathes, “I’m so sorry Wednesday I don’t know why I did that uhhh” She scratches at her cheek looking towards the exit. “I’m gunna go and if you want to pretend that didn’t happen just like whatever it’s chill okay bye” she exits before Wednesday can put her thoughts together.

A snapping sound brings Wednesday back to attention. Thing stands on his fingers on a nearby table.

Wednesday gives him a questioning look, “When did you get here?” now her voice wants to work. Thing jabs his fingers towards Wednesday then to the door. Realization dawns on Wednesday, as she turns towards the door Enid just escaped through.

“Shit”

Chapter Text

Enid had never been great at expressing her feelings. She’d always had too many and been told she was “too loud” or “too much” or “too colorful”. She was always too much or not enough, but when she first came to Nevermore she finally started feeling like she could be herself and it would be okay. Then Wednesday crashed into her life and she had to start all over. Enid huffs and turns over in bed staring at the ceiling.

Yoko throws a squishmallow shaped like a penguin at Enid.

“Are you just going to mope in my bed all night, nerd?”

Enid sits up frowning at her friend. “You owe me for attacking me in the forest not even an hour ago,”

Yoko holds her hands up in surrender, “I just think you need to talk to her, you didn’t see her when she came asking for help,” Yoko smirks, “homegirl has a weird way of showing it, but she really likes you.”

Enid hugs the penguin to her chest, pouting “you didn’t see the way she looked at me Yoko, she probably needs space to like taxidermy a rat or something.”

Yoko grimaces from her bean bag chair, “that’s the girl you want? There’s so many girls here and in the world in general, but you want the one with the dead animals, are you sure?”

Enid levels a glare at the vampire. Yoko chuckles, “just checking,” She grins before adding, “she agreed to a movie night you know?” Enid groans before falling back in bed and screaming into the penguin.
Things were simpler when she thought she was straight, but let’s be honest she always knew there was something slightly different about her friendships with girls. Even her relationship with Ajax was so surface level it made her want to laugh now. She obsessed over him for months and as soon as they were together she lost interest. It’s not like he was any better. Once the school year ended and they were no longer in the same state as each other their conversations were so few and far between. If anyone read their text messages they wouldn’t be able to guess the two were in a relationship. You can only answer “what are you up to?” in so many interesting ways.The final nail in the coffin of the relationship was when Enid went to Portland to visit him and nothing changed. The relationship had run its course and if Enid was being completely honest with herself it was over the moment Wednesday clutched onto her back in their first ever hug.

When the school year ended Enid found herself spending more and more time thinking about Wednesday and missing their shared dorm. Which is insane because Wednesday is a tolerable person on a good day and a horrible roommate always. She’s not sure when but at some point Wednesday became the one Enid thought of as she listened to her Taylor Swift playlists. The tiniest of voices whispered to her and suddenly the faceless Prince Charming she was singing to became a brooding girl with a glare strong enough to scare off any would be prince charmings. “If he breaks your heart, I’ll nail gun his,” the words repeated themselves unbidden in the middle of the night when Enid couldn’t sleep. A part of her knew she would be following Wednesday for the rest of her life if the smaller girl let her.

When she eventually broke down and talked to Yoko about it, the vampire laughed for so long Enid was sure she would’ve passed out from lack of oxygen if she weren’t a vampire. Between her weird newfound feelings for her broody roommate and her mother’s constant attempts at playing matchmaker now that she had finally gone through her first wolf out, Enid’s summer break was feeling more like a punishment.

So she started working out. Every day. She would do a morning run with Josh her youngest older brother, lift weights with Marcus the oldest after lunch and finish the day with yoga with Adrian because “spirituality is really important ‘Nid don’t count it out, you have to stay in tune with mother moon” she would roll her eyes fondly but it did help her sleep. It felt good to get out of her head and into her body. Maybe it was a wolf thing, but after her first shift it was like she was no longer begging to any entity that would listen to make her different and just learning to accept the newness of her slightly taller, slightly more muscular body. Coming to terms with her feelings towards Wednesday helped clear the remaining feelings of isolation. It helped that Yoko was so supportive even if her mom wasn’t, Yoko was always there to send her a meme and make her smile. “There are two wolves inside of you- both of them are gay,” flashing across her screen was actually how Marcus found out about her sexuality. Marcus just nodded in acknowledgement and loaded another plate onto the bar for Enid to bench. Josh frowned and said he owed Adrian money and Adrian grinned and asked if she was dating her vampire bestie yet.

A knock on Yoko’s door brought Enid forcibly out of her thoughts. Yoko lifted an eyebrow at the werewolf, neither had to open the door to know who was behind it. At this point Enid had memorized Wednesday's smell and looked for it unconsciously everywhere she went and Yoko had heard the girl’s heartbeat slightly speed up as she reached the door. Enid grimaced across the room at her friend.

“You’re going to make me open the door for the homicidal maniac? You know this is how most horror movies begin right?” Yoko rolls her eyes before making a big show of getting up from her bean bag chair. Enid sits up in bed clutching the penguin.
Yoko swings the door open with a snarky “yes?”. Wednesday levels a glare at the vampire.

“Enid is not in our room which means she must be here.”

“She could have just wolfed out and run away to join a wild pack on their way to the Canadian border,” Yoko responds easily, grinning.

Wednesday ignores her speaking into the room past Yoko.

“We agreed you would not do this again, Enid.”

“I’m not running away from you this time I swear!” Enid’s voice came from somewhere inside the room.

Yoko rolled her eyes before stepping to the side, allowing Wednesday to see the other girl still sitting on her bed clutching the penguin plush.

“I just figured you would need some space after…” Enid trailed off, playing with the penguin’s flippers.

Yoko looks between Enid refusing to make eye contact and Wednesday’s impassive stare before throwing her hands up.

“I’m going to see what Divina is doing. I’ll be back in thirty minutes.” She glares between the two girls.

“Figure this-,” she gestures between the two of them, “-out before I get back or take it back to your own room.”

She gestures for Wednesday to enter the room. Wednesday takes a tentative step into the room, Yoko steps past her closing the door as she goes.

“Don’t get freaky in my room or I will kill you! Byeee,” she throws out. Enid throws the penguin but it hits the closed door as Yoko cackles from the other side.

Enid had never been good at silence, talking was her favorite activity which is why she knew so many languages and picked up Thing’s unique way of communicating quickly after meeting Wednesday’s companion. She took pride in her ability to always have something to say and making others comfortable enough around her to speak their minds. But sitting in front of her stoic roommate she found she had no words to fill the silence.

Wednesday stood in the middle of Yoko’s room, a monochromatic statue surrounded by Yoko’s eccentric collection of her favorite things from different decades.

“Wednesday I’m sorry-”

Wednesday’s eyes snap to Enid and she holds up her hand to stop her.

“You have nothing to apologize for Enid, I asked to understand your feelings and you expressed yourself.”

Enid fidgets with the comforter on Yoko’s bed, avoiding Wednesday’s piercing stare.

“Still, I invaded your space and I apologize for that, I know it makes you uncomfortable.”

Wednesday nods once before taking a step towards the bed.

“Enid. You once told me that you weren’t sure how but we worked. It would be foolish for me to disagree.”

“You are the most frustrating,” Wednesday takes another step toward the wolf. Enid scoots to the edge of the bed sitting up straighter, not one to back down.

“Obnoxious,” another step.

“Colorful,” another step.

“thoughtful, kind person I have ever met.” Wednesday stands in front of the taller girl. Enid gives Wednesday a small grin.

“I can’t tell if you were trying to compliment or insult me, Willa”

Wednesday grimaces and takes a deep breath before continuing.

“I have always known friendships and relationships are weaknesses. My parents met at school and I know they had hoped I would find my partner here as they did.” Wednesday pauses, breaking eye contact. Enid pushes her socked foot against Wednesday’s boot encouraging her to continue.

“I’m not like other people Enid, I’m aware I’m selfish and stubborn. I hurt everyone around me so why would anyone-”
Wednesday glares at the twilight poster on the wall, a prank from Enid Yoko never bothered taking down. Enid hops to her feet trying not to fall into the smaller girl.

“You don’t hurt everyone around you Wednesday, everyone who is around you has made that choice and we stand by you always.” Enid reaches for Wednesday’s hand then stops.

Enid pouts at the ground as she clenches her hand at her side. Wednesday huffs out a breath, “I’m the reason Eugene spent much of last semester in a hospital room. I used you to get to the gates mansion knowing how dangerous it was and I-” Wednesday’s throat seems to close in on itself. She finally makes eye contact with the taller girl. “I’m only going to hurt you more Enid, I’m not good at this.”

Enid reaches her hand out between them, palm up, an invitation. Wednesday stares at it for a second before covering Enid’s hand with her own. Enid lightly squeezes her hand. “Eugene forgave you a long time ago, and so did I,” She smiles at Wednesday with a finality that challenges Wednesday to say something else.

“You need to forgive yourself now, and recognize that even if you ‘don’t know how to be a friend’ you’ve been doing a pretty good job figuring it out,” Enid squeezes her hand again. “I’m sorry I crossed a line, I promise not to be weird and keep my crush under control so it won't happen again.”

Wednesday tightens her grip on Enid’s hand not letting the taller girl separate them. “Enid. I cut feelings out of my life at an early age because they did not serve me. I did not feel fear each time I was attacked, but I felt fear when I saw you fighting with Tyler. I felt fear when I searched the crowd for you and did not immediately see you. I felt fear when I noticed a change in you. I am afraid you have irreparably damaged me. You plague my waking thoughts and I search for you in my dreams. You have consumed me and I had not even noticed until you kissed me and ran. You have brought a war upon me and I beg that you finish the job.”

Enid blinks at the smaller girl, a flush covering her face down to her neck. Wednesday lifts Enid’s hand to her mouth and kisses her palm, before flipping her hand and kissing the back of it. Enid sputters before pushing into Wednesday’s space, their noses brushing briefly.

“Are you sure Wednesday, if this is a lot I get it,” Enid breathes quietly, eyes never leaving Wednesday's mouth.

“Please”

It’s all the confirmation Enid needs before she’s closing the space between them, hands reaching up to cradle Wednesday’s face. Wednesday grips the front of Enid’s shirt so hard she wouldn’t be surprised if it rips. She makes a mental note to give Wednesday a hard time about that later, but the back of her knees hit the edge of Yoko’s bed and her mind goes blank.

In a dorm room on the other side of campus Bianca scowls as she places a crisp five dollar bill into Divina’s hand.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loud music coming from her best friend’s dorm room doesn’t surprise Yoko. She gives a quick knock before flinging the door open then promptly steps back into the hallway as a knife hits the door jam.

“JESUS! How has love made you meaner?” She calls from the hallway before stepping into the room hands up in surrender. Her surprise is quickly replaced by a grimace.

Enid is doing push ups in the middle of the room with Wednesday sitting on her back reading a book as if it's the most normal thing in the world.

“This is disgusting. I think I would have rather walked in on you guys making out why is this so much weirder?”

Wednesday scowls and stands, holding her hand out for Enid which she takes with a lopsided smile.

“The next time you open our door like that I will not fire a warning shot,” Wednesday tosses out before sitting on her bed and continuing her reading.

“You really can’t barge in like that anymore Yoko,” Enid’s ears and neck flush at the implication.

“You can’t be embarrassed about something you implied yourself kid,” Yoko grins wagging her eyebrows.

Enid’s face gets even more red. “What’s up Yoko?” she busies herself taking her hair out of its ponytail and brushing her hands through it.

Yoko grins, “movie night! It’s your turn to bring the snacks- meet us in the nightshade library in an hour!”

Enid perks up immediately, “Perfect I have enough time to shower, whose turn is it to pick the movie? Please tell me it's not Ajax, I cannot sit through another Michael Bay movie no matter how hot Megan Fox is and how cool the explosions look.”

Yoko’s smile grows sinister, “It’s my turn and my pick is horror so bring a blanket, and a buddy” She looks pointedly at Wednesday who ignores her.

“Weds?” Enid pouts.

Wednesday sighs dramatically while closing her book. “All of this information could have been sent through a text Tanaka.”

“And miss out on the opportunity to find you two in a compromising position? Absolutely not”

The red returns to Enid’s face.

“We will be there, now leave.” Wednesday gestures towards the door.

Enid starts bouncing in place out of excitement.

Yoko turns to leave, throwing a “lot can happen in an hour” behind her as she closes the door laughing. Another knife hits the door where her head had been.

Later that night when Yoko notices Enid and Wednesday holding hands under a blanket she chooses to ignore it, noticing instead how much happier her best friend is now even with a storm cloud following her around campus.

Enid lies on her bed scrolling on her phone as Wednesday types at her desk. Soft music plays from the speaker on Enid’s desk.

Wednesday sits back as the song changes.

“I like this song,” Wednesday states looking back at Enid.

“I know,” Enid doesn’t look up from her phone.

“I made a playlist with songs you like and songs I like, I guess it’s our playlist” She trails off suddenly embarrassed.

Wednesday scoots her chair back, interested.

“May I see it?”

Enid sits up and studies Wednesday’s impassive face, skeptical. When she finds no malicious intent she stands and hands her phone to Wednesday.

“How do you know I like these songs?” She asks as she scrolls through the playlist.

“I pay attention to what you listen to Willa, plus those gramophone discs are huge. It's easy enough to find those artists on spotify.

Wednesday stares up at Enid in muted wonder before she hands back the phone satisfied. Enid grins before skipping back to her bed.

Wednesday returns to her work and Enid returns to her scrolling.

“Why did you name the playlist with the sun and moon pictures?”

“Emojis”

“Right. I cannot be the sun, but the moon signifies werewolves traditionally.”

“Why would the moon signify werewolves?”

“Well do you not believe the moon to be a goddess you want to return to and howl at in reverence?”

Enid rolls her eyes and giggles, “I think your information is a little dated”

Wednesday turns in her chair silently asking Enid to continue.

“I’m more sunshine than you, besides werewolves don’t want to be the moon Weds, they are ruled by their moon.”

Enid snaps her mouth shut and hides behind her phone the tips of her ears turning red.

Wednesday slowly turns back to her typewriter.

“In this scenario I am your moon.”

The room is silent.

“Very well, I already think of you as mi sol so this is acceptable.” Wednesday doesn’t turn from her typewriter but her fingers stay still on the keys, her back stiff.

Enid grins, “I love it Weds”

Wednesday gives a small nod before she continues typing.