Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Everyone knew the name. Willy Wonka. 

A name that rolled off the tongue. Willy Wonka. 

Rivals shuddered at his name. Willy Wonka. 

An individual who could defy the laws of physics with a few simple ingredients. 

Willy Wonka. 

His claim to fame began when he was just a small child. His father, Willard Wonka Sr, was an esteemed chocolatier. He began working in a small bakery just after he had returned from the war. Working in an office had never appealed to the man. The same applied to Willy's mother, Martha. They had both met each other at the end of their shifts. While they both loved their work, their ideas seemed to blossom into something more… creative. After long days of spending it in front of hot ovens and getting covered in flour, their nights were spent dreaming of something more. More than just bread for toasting and cakes to go with coffee. Ice cream came in more than just two flavours. Lollipops that were significantly bigger than the size of your head. And candies that ne'er grew smaller, no matter how long you could suck on it. 

It wasn't long after they said their vows that the newlywed Wonkas quit their jobs at the bakery and scrapped together enough money to open their candy store. Willard worked lengthy, gruelling hours creating machines he had salvaged from scrap heaps to build machines to help speed up the candy-making process. While on the other hand, Martha kept the store's shelves stocked with the latest candies they had created. It was only a short time until the Wonka brand became popular. Kids came running down to the store the minute the last bell rang from school, throwing their hard-earned pennies at any candy they could get. Teenagers flocked to the store for first dates and fresh malts. Even the older crowd went to the store to enjoy sweets from when they were younger. The Wonkas had it all. And the jealousy began to grow from other rival candy companies. Yet Willard and Martha took everything they created in pride and paid no attention to the competition. 

They decided to expand their empire as the fame grew between the two. Long gone were the days of Willard digging around in piles of trash. Soon, they would be the proud owners of the world's largest candy factory! Imagine that! Where the workers would happily come to work, and the magic would begin. Cupcakes and pies, fizzy lemonades and chocolate ladybugs. Willard and Martha created it all. Unfortunately, the world had gone Wonka crazy. The press would hound them for interviews. The magazines and newspapers had been infected with Wonkamania! This only increased the tension between the other rivals. Many attempts to steal the sacred recipes the pair had created were unsuccessful, which brought them to another dilemma. Who would be there if something were to happen to the team of chocolatiers? Willard and Martha couldn't trust anyone with their creation. That is until… They welcomed a baby boy into the world! William Wonka Jr., who they nicknamed "Willy" for short. And what a joy that boy was. He was timid yet friendly. Everywhere he went, he brought a smile to everyone he'd meet. He loved riddles and singing. He never wore matching socks and would often be seen wearing his father's hat. (A big brown top hat, I may add.) 

Yes, the Wonkas were the vision of a perfect family. They could be seen laughing in photographs. They were enjoying family vacations. But as Willy grew older, the impending doom of inheritance began brewing in the back of the boy's mind. How could he continue his parent's legacy without destroying it? His parents would soon retire, leaving the golden goose operation to their only son. At twenty-one, he was one of the world's youngest entrepreneurs! And he knew what he was doing. Hundreds of candies were being produced every day when Willy took charge. Experiments would flood his Inventing Lab. New candies would hit the shelves, and the world was still raving over the Wonka brand. Yet, the man was happy with himself. He could take his parent's legacy and put his spin on it. His style. His "new creation" is what he often told the media. 

You almost forgot about those rivals… didn't you? As the old saying goes: "All Good Things Must Come to an End…." The sudden death of his parents in their newly built home came down on Willy like a sledgehammer. At first, no one, not even Willy himself, knew the cause of death. The tabloids, news stations and papers were filled with rumours. 

"Was the Pair Murdered by Their Rivals..?"

"DEATH BY CHOCOLATE?" 

"Was it Unfinished Business Knocking at Death's Door?"

Well, my dear readers. After the coroner had arrived at the scene, it turned out that a gas leak had caused the pair to pass away. The furnace that had been installed was a faulty unit. Take a word from the wise, as rumours have horrible impacts on people. Willy, a mix of emotions, shied away from the public debacle. After the funeral, Willy returned to work the very next day. He felt as if he had no one to blame but himself. After all, everyone deserves to retire in peace. Nevertheless, he continued to persevere and work alongside his faithful employees. 

As Willy began to grow older, the Wonka brand began to slip. Every year when his parent's death anniversary approached, he grew vulnerable and lost within his creations. This caused many rivals to come in and steal many of his ideas. They disguised themselves as Wonka employees and broke into Willy's laboratories, where he'd toil for hours. To say he was crushed was an understatement. He was heartbroken. 

And without any warning, every employee of Willy Wonka was laid off. It started like any regular work day, yet people would only return for their next shift. It was an utter shock to the workers and the public. Each employee was instructed to clean their locker and leave their uniform. Every machine halted. The ovens were turned off. Every wheel and gear stopped turning. Finally, Willy, with a heavy heart, only said this: 

"I must go and discover myself."

And so, many years passed. The gates of the factory were closed forever. The world seemed to move on. Some had claimed they saw shadows lurking in the factory's windows, but Willy Wonka was nowhere to be seen. Some people thought that Willy had abandoned the factory to become a private citizen. Others had even speculated that he had died. 

It was an early September morning when an older couple was going down the main street where the factory was located. They often came to the factory's main gates, where they would reminisce about the past. Long gone were the days of trying new candy and chocolate bars. Long gone for the days of milkshakes and girls in poodle skirts. Yet, a strange sight began to unfold in front of the elderly husband and wife. First, a familiar scent of chocolate began to waft through the air. Then, the smoke started to pour from the factory's chimneys. And just like magic, the trucks that once delivered the Wonka specialties to the world began to flood the streets. The Candy Man was back, yet nowhere to be found. 

Candy shops, department stores, and convenience stores began filling with new Wonka products. Taffy that could stretch so long it could be used for skipping rope! Bubblegum, you could chew and turn into candy balloons! Breakfast-flavoured lollipops that tasted just maple syrup. And, of course, chocolate. So many different chocolate bars. And they were filled with anything you can imagine. Popping candy, hazelnut crème and vanilla bean. Wonka had done it all. The Wonkamania was beginning to grow in popularity again. And that, my dear readers, is where we meet our main character.

Chapter Text

Charlie Bucket was seventeen, soon to be eighteen. He had unruly, wavy hair that was the colour of autumn leaves. His eyes were a deep amber brown, and he was rather skinny. He lived with his parents, Mr. Bucket and Mrs. Bucket. Charlie also lived with his two sets of grandparents. Grandpa Joe, his wife Josephine, and Grandpa Goerge and his wife, Georgina. They all lived in a small apartment. It was in a crumbling, decrepit building on the rougher side of town. Once, it was a bustling, lively neighbourhood. Yet now, it was full of abandoned, lonely husks of buildings that people once called home. The grandparents shared the main living room, where they had spent most of their time. Charlie's parents had one bedroom, as did Charlie. It wasn't grand. But it was what he called his home. Sometimes there would be no hot water when he had to shower. Or in the summertime, when the whole family would suffer from the heat with no air conditioner.

Both of Charlie's parents worked night and day to pay the rent. Charlie's mother, Diana, worked as a housemaid. She would work exhausting, long hours cleaning hotels and mansions. Charlie's father, Noah, was a janitor in a local hospital. While Charlie loved his parents, he never saw them that often. Every night when Charlie finished his homework, he spent most of his time caring for his grandparents. Especially his Grandpa Joe, whom he was the closest to. He would sit beside the old recliner, and his Grandfather would tell him many stories about his former years.

Charlie attended a high school called Roald Weston Institute. A school that was once known for its students' top marks, sports teams and the latest in classroom technology. The school's heydays of award-winning achievements were over. The school was now known to have poor teachers struggling to break fights between students. The walls required a fresh coat of paint, and the lockers needed repair and a clean-up. It wasn't the greatest, but Charlie was thankful for what he had. It was his last year in high school, and he was going to make sure that it would be somewhat enjoyable. After all, you are only young once!

Most of his peers around him had all sorts of interests. Some were into sports or playing instruments. Others were into fashion and all kinds of arts. But what Charlie loved the most was baking and sweets! When he didn't have his hands full with his grandparents, you could find him working at a candy store- Bill's Candy Shop. Or in his family's kitchen, creating all kinds of chocolate pastries and cakes. Unfortunately, his classmates often made fun of him, especially in his culinary class at school. Charlie paid no attention to their cruel words, yet it hurt him deep down inside.

Charlie's first fascination with sweets all began when he was much younger. It was his fifth birthday, and he was impatiently waiting by the fence for his father to pick him up from kindergarten. During the walk home, his father showed him where Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory stood proud and tall. He remembered taking a deep breath and smelling all the most beautiful scents from burnt caramels, vanilla and crisp pumpkin pies. But what was waiting at home was even better. His mother and grandmothers had baked him a homemade chocolate cake. It was covered in rainbow sprinkles and deep blue frosting. He was ecstatic! Ever since then, he has looked up to Willy Wonka as one of his role models and heroes.

And sometimes, late at night… When Charlie fell into a deep slumber to escape reality, he dreamed about who Wonka was. His visions were often full of the factory itself or Wonka creating masterpieces that he would share with Charlie. He'd often fantasize about owning his own candy store someday, and Charlie would wake up with a growling stomach.

THE PRESENT DAY…

The shrill shriek of Charlie's phone alarm blared into his ear. Charlie, who was never a morning person, groggily wiped his eyes and slumped out of bed. He went to the bathroom, turning the faucet with a rusty creak after splashing the cold water on his face and wiping it with an old, fuzzy towel. He then checked his phone, where he was greeted with many news notifications and updates. Curious, he opened his phone and nearly dropped it in shock.

"WILLY WONKA'S FACTORY TO BE REOPENED TO THE PUBLIC!"

…

"BUT ONLY TO FIVE LUCKY WINNERS!"

Chapter Text

Charlie was quick to prepare himself that morning. He combed through his tousled bedhead and brushed his teeth without delay. He then pitched his pyjama top in the hamper beside his bed and hurried to his small closet. After putting on a pair of worn-out jeans and his beloved red woolly sweater, he picked up his textbooks and backpack, all set for the day ahead.

Charlie's mother had just completed a strenuous shift and was making herself a cup of tea in the kitchen. Her husband was enjoying a cup of black coffee with some plain toast, preparing himself for another gruelling day at work. Meanwhile, Charlie burst into the living room, where his grandparents were enjoying a light breakfast. As he entered the room, everyone appeared perplexed. His mother was the first to speak, questioning Charlie with concern, "Charlie, what's going on? Why are you acting like this?"

He stopped and swung into one of the chairs to catch his breath. "Sorry, Ma." He said. "I just couldn't contain the excitement! Willy Wonka is opening up his factory… And- And it will only be open to five people!" His Mother cocked an eyebrow and glanced at her husband.

"And these Golden Tickets are hidden inside his chocolate bars!" Charlie continued to ramble on as he began to nibble on a piece of toast.

As Charlie's voice echoed from the kitchen, Grandpa Joe couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Well, I never thought I'd see the day," he chuckled to himself before commenting to his wife, "The man is a genius!" He laughed so hard that he almost spilled his coffee, but the others simply shook their heads in disbelief.

"What a lovely idea. Too bad it's only for five people…" Charlie's mother yawned, tapping her teaspoon on her mug.

"It sounds nothing like a cash grab." Retorted Grandpa George.

"And so what if it is, George?" Grandpa Joe began to argue. "He'll sell a million bars! No, no! Make that a billion!"

Even though he had finished breakfast, Charlie's mouth began to water. He quickly hopped over to Grandpa Joe's old recliner. "D'you think I have a chance to find a ticket, Grandpa?" He asked.

He gave his grandson a large, toothy tobacco-stained smile. "Of course you do! Why- I'm counting on you to find all five!"

"Now, let's not be greedy, Joe!" Josephine giggled to herself.

Grandpa George could only scowl in annoyance. "That guy is a jerk. Laying off all of his workers for no reason! Worse than the automobile companies, I'd say! That includes you, Joe."

He rolled his eyes and nudged Charlie's side. "Could you blame the man? Dealing with those people stealing from him. Besides, I forgave him many years ago."

Charlie gave him a smile. "Could you tell me more of your stories later tonight when I return from school?" He asked. Grandpa Joe gave him a wink. "Of course, Charlie. Hurry along now- or you'll be late!"

Charlie bid his grandparents goodbye with a gentle hug and a warm smile. "I'll see you all soon," he said before leaving their cozy, cramped apartment.

"Goodbye, Charlie!" They all said in unison.

As he shut the door behind him, he could still faintly hear the sound of Grandpa George's voice, engaged in yet another heated argument. He slung his backpack over his shoulder, taking a deep breath and preparing himself for the day ahead.

"It seems that boy will never grow up. Why, he still acts like a child!"

"And who says that's a bad thing, George? There are no rules on growing up."

As Charlie made his way to school, his anticipation grew with each step. He was eager to meet with his friends, Theo and Lucy, and share their excitement about the opening of Wonka's factory to the public. The crisp Autumn air was filled with a tantalizing scent that wafted through the streets, a perfect mixture of rich chocolate and sweet, burnt sugar. He knew he was getting closer to the Wonka factory. Charlie knew he couldn't resist the allure of the intoxicating aroma of cocoa. So he decided to stop for a moment in front of the Gates.
As Charlie walked towards the factory gates, he couldn't help but smile at the warm and inviting glow of the lights shining from the windows. The sight of the fluffy steam coming from the smokestacks made his excitement grow even more. He eagerly thought about his favourite chocolate bars, and his mouth began to water with anticipation.

Charlie's mind was consumed with thoughts of Mr. Wonka. Lost in his daydream, he was startled when an unfamiliar man approached him. The stranger's appearance was striking - he was draped in a long, black pinstripe blazer that cascaded down to his knees, and a silver silk scarf was delicately wrapped around his neck. His face was obscured by a fedora that he wore low over his brow, and he leaned on an ornate cane that glinted in the sunlight. Though Charlie knew better than to speak to strangers, he couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue and fascination towards the man.

"'Scuse me, my friend. But do you happen to know where the nearest Subway station is?" He spoke in a calm, courteous manner.

Charlie nodded, finally finding his voice. "Oh! Oh yeah. Just two streets down, you'll find Cherrywood Station."

With a gentle grin spreading across his face, the man carefully adjusted his attire with care. "Oh! That's right. It's been a while since I've taken the subtrain. Or is it a trainway? I must be off."

Charlie gave a confused, awkward wave as he turned away and began walking again.

"Wait!"

Charlie turned his head as the gentleman from across the street hollered at the top of his lungs, "And one more thing! I have a strong feeling that all your aspirations indeed come true! Farewell!" The man laughed heartily and playfully waved his cane in the air.
Charlie checked his watch nervously - it was ten to nine. Realizing he would be late for school, he quickly ran off, forgetting about the strange man.

* * *

"CHARLES BUCKET! Just where have you been, young man?!" A familiar voice shouted across the crowded hallway. His two best friends, Theo and Lucy, eagerly awaited him. Since the start of grade nine, they had been inseparable after meeting in an art class.
Charlie, panting and struggling to extricate himself from the boisterous group of teenagers, called out to Theo and Lucy excitedly. "Have you heard the news? Wonka's factory is finally opening up!" he exclaimed, his voice almost trembling with anticipation.

They both chuckled in response. "Of course, we know! That's what everybody's been talkin' about!" Theo began, digging into his backpack, revealing three Wonka bars. Charlie's eyes widened. "These were the last three that were on the shelf at the convenience store. When the news came out this morning, nearly everywhere had sold out of 'em! Here! We can each have one!"

With a cheerful laugh, Lucy playfully swung her vibrant purse onto the ground. "I appreciate you, Theo. I will keep mine for later."

"What? Not gon' open it now, girlie?" He teased, ripping into the golden wrapper. "Aw, shoot." He said. "Nothing."

Charlie shrugged as they continued down where their lockers were. "I think this will be tough to win, guys. After all, it's looking like most places are selling out fast."

Lucy's eyes widened at Charlie. "I'm surprised at you, Charles!" She teased. "Ya know, ever since we've met, it's all ya talk about sometimes. Wonka this. Wonka that."

Theo nodded. "It's not a bad thing. It's something you love and appreciate. That's why I think you should focus on winning one!"

Charlie shifted uncomfortably. He had already promised to pitch in for some of the groceries that week. He didn't have any extra money for chocolate. "We'll see, guys. I'll see if I can pick up extra hours at the Icee Shop this week."

Suddenly, before any of them could continue, the first morning bell of the day rang. They all collectively groaned.

With a mischievous grin on his face, Theo forcefully closed his locker. "Well, I'll catch you guys later. I've got a date with Miss. Jackson and her drama class!" Theo giggled to himself. "See ya folks later."

Charlie nodded. "Come on, we better get to Chemistry. You already know how Mr. Miller feels about late students. Let's go!"

Lucy and Charlie made their way down to where their chemistry class was. When they arrived, their teacher was already annoyed with the rowdy crowd. "Alright, alright!" He shouted over the chatter in the class. "If I hear anything else about this whole Wonka thing, you'll be in detention for two days! No phones, texting, or sweet talk." He threatened. They both gulped and found their respective seats. The chatter gradually lowered as everyone focused their attention on the morning announcements.

"Now! If you will all take out your textbooks and turn to page seventy one." He began. "The law of chemical equilibrium-"

"It's been FOUND!" A student hollered in the hallway. "Some dude has already found the first ticket!"

"Where was it? All the way in Germany, you said?" The other student exclaimed.

The entire class burst into loud chatter as they all simultaneously checked their phones for the news. Mr. Miller sighed, rubbing his balding head. "Jeez… why do I even bother."

Lucy immediately dug through her purse, looking for her phone. "Ooh! Let's see who won!"

Charlie's shoulders slumped, and he gave a weak smile. "Yeah… sure."

They both looked into the tiny screen as Lucy continued to scroll down. "Ah! Here we go. The first winner… Augustus Gloop. Ugh, ew! Isn't he one of those… ASMR… food eaters on YouTube?"

Charlie chuckled. "I think you mean a mukbanger. I think he's done all kinds of stuff on food, though. Look! He's got a video on it already."

Lucy cautiously tapped on the video called: "We've WON!" There was a very corny, disgusting preview of a man's face smeared with chocolate. Charlie held his breath in anticipation as the video began to load. Suddenly, more students began to gather around as the video started playing. A large, portly man waddled into the camera's viewpoint. He appeared to be in his mid-twenties with slicked-back strawberry blond hair. All over his chubby jowls and lips were smothered in milk chocolate.

"Hey, Foodies!" He spoke in a thick German accent. "You would NOT believe vhat we've found today while filming our next Mukbang video!" He smiled, revealing a large, glittering ticket. A small yet noticeable bite mark on one of the corners led to some uncertainty and puzzlement among the students.

"Yeah! I found de first Vonka Golden Ticket! My boyfriend and I were filming earlier. And seeing that chocolate bars are one of my favourite sweets, we just had to make a video on Vonka." He continued in his rich accent." But as I was getting ready to dig into my fifth bar, I noticed that something vas strange about this chocolate. I vas unsure if it vas nougat, butter brittle, or coconut. I looked down, and there vit vas!" he chuckled, holding up the ticket as if it were a trophy. Charlie's mouth began to water again.

His partner chuckled in the background. "What are you most excited about, my sweet?"

With a rustle of paper, Augustus eagerly ripped open the wrapper of yet another delectable chocolate bar, his mouth already watering in anticipation of the sweet treat. "Vhat Mr. Vonka will be making for us guests! Who knows vhat sweets and feasts await us all!" He laughed, taking a monstrous bite.

Chapter Text

All throughout the first and second periods, the students at Charlie’s school wouldn’t stop talking about the first Golden Ticket winner. Augustus Gloop, who came from Germany, was a relatively well-known figure on the internet. He was mainly known for his ASMR videos, where he’d review all kinds of foreign foods, international snacks and candy. In fact, he had a whole series where it was strictly dedicated to the Wonka brand. There, he would gloat over a new product of Willy Wonka’s, whether it was a new type of chocolate bar or a flavoured jelly bean. Augustus would then analyze the sweets with great detail and directly chew into the microphone of his camera. Sometimes, he’d go out of his way to eat thousands of calories in one sitting. He had made himself a large, well-known creator in the online community. People admired his videos, and they would say it would give them a sense of comfort. Others were nasty and made countless comments about his body and personality. Augustus didn’t care what he shoved in his mouth as long as it tasted delicious.

Charlie, on the other hand, wanted to vomit.

He couldn’t understand why someone was getting admired for wasting copious amounts of food. He just knew his family would dream of having the feasts Augustus and his partner would enjoy on the videos. Charlie’s family could only afford so much due to his grandparent’s needs. As they aged, they began to require more assistance. Grandpa Joe, as did his wife, found it hard to get out of bed. Their medications and treatment bills would stack up, leaving very little money for Charlie and his parents. Some days it was a struggle to maintain a positive outlook.

Charlie and Lucy then met up with Theo during lunch. They once all agreed that eating their lunches together was a sacred ritual. They made their way through the crowded cafeteria, finding a secluded table away from all the noise and shouting. Charlie sighed in relief and began to dig around what he had in his lunch bag. He only had a bruised apple and a granola bar. “Delicious.” He thought to himself.

“Aye, Charles, is that all ya got in your lunch today?” Theo asked as he began digging through his lunch bag.

Charlie solemnly shook his head. “I- yeah. Mom hasn’t been able to do much shopping this week. We were supposed to go yesterday but got caught up in working an extra shift. I hate it!” He glanced up and looked around the lunchroom. Several students were tearing into Wonka bars like a pack of feral animals. Some were even tackling each other. Lucy immediately took notice, sighed and looked in her lunch bag.

“Here, have half of my sandwich, Charlie. I made ‘em this morning.”

He smiled as he grabbed the poorly torn sandwich. He was glad he’d have something else to eat. They all began to eat their lunches until Theo broke the silence.

“So… about the first Golden Ticket winner-”

“Oh, please, Theo. I DO NOT want to talk about him!” Charlie scowled. “All that guy does is waste food and act like a slob in front of millions! I don’t understand.”
“So you’re telling me that he gets money and views because he eats copious amounts of food?” Theo laughed. “Doesn’t surprise me, though. What a fatty.”

Lucy glared at Theo and gave him a sharp nudge in his side. “Theo! There is no need to make fun of his appearance… Although, adults do wonder why kids want to be TikTok stars and influencers. It all comes down to being famous for some ridiculous act.”

“And money, too. Can’t forget the money.” Theo pointed out.

“Yet I agree with Charlie though. I’m already bored of this silly contest.” Lucy said with a sigh, taking out her chocolate bar from earlier. “I wonder who will be the next winner?”
Theo shrugged. “Another famous guy or gal. But what do I know?”

Charlie’s shoulders slumped, but he suddenly remembered his strange encounter with the odd fellow near the factory gates this morning. He smiled, thinking about his strange, curious demeanour and interesting fashion choices. Maybe he knew Willy Wonka and was his friend! Or maybe- no, that seemed preposterous!

* * *

The rest of the day flew by rather fast for Charlie. His favourite two classes seemed like a blur to him. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t get the Wonka craze out of his head. Once the final bell rang and the students were dismissed, Charlie was extremely thankful to be on the bus to go to work. He worked at a small, old-fashioned candy store called Bill’s Candy Shop. It was a wonderful little store which had been in the family for generations, and Charlie enjoyed working every minute there. But as he got off at the bus stop and made his way onto the busy sidewalk, he saw a large crowd gathered around the shop’s front door. He gulped nervously as he made his way through and slipped into the back of the store, where he saw his boss (Bill the third.) struggling as he tore open a shipping box. He looked over and smiled.

As Charlie approached him, the man handed him a box cutter with a smile. "Good timing as always, boy," he said. "You see, ever since this morning, the customers have been going absolutely stir-crazy about Wonka! More so than usual. They can't wait to get their hands on those delicious treats. So, I need you to hurry along now and make sure everything is in order." Charlie nodded and took off towards the back room.

The young and old customers piled into the store, yelling, screaming and grabbing large handfuls of Wonka bars. Bill tried his best to contain the rowdy crowd, and Charlie skillfully sliced each cardboard box open and stocked every shelf in the store with fresh candy. The customers then threw their money onto the counter and pushed their way out of the store. Charlie shifted uncomfortably as he began to open another box of chocolates. “A Slugworth Sizzler?” He thought to himself. “I doubt these will sell.”

It wasn’t long until the store was nearly half empty. Bill immediately flopped down. “Jeez. What a tough crowd!” Charlie nodded, sweeping up small gold wrappers that had been carelessly tossed on the ground.

“If you need me, Charlie, I’ll be heading out for a cig.” Bill let out a deep sigh of relief as he quickly removed his stained apron, tossing it aside as he reached for his coat.

Charlie nodded again, picking up the dustpan and heading to the garbage. The sound of the store’s front doors flew open as a mysterious figure stepped in. Charlie looked over and was shocked to see the man he saw earlier that morning. The gentleman cleared his throat and began to make his way over to the cash register.

“G-good evening, sir. How can I help you?” Was all Charlie could muster.

The strange man let out a gentle laugh, his trusty cane tapping rhythmically against the weathered tiles of the old store. Charlie awkwardly stood there, fumbling with his fingers. “I heard about this… Wonka craze.” The man spoke up, sweeping off his blazer. “You got any more of them bars?”

Charlie shook his head. “N-no. I apologize; we’re all out of Wonkas. All I can offer is a Slugworth Sizzler or any of Ficklegruber’s chocolates. How do you feel about Cadbury?”

The man’s upper lip twitched in disgust at the mention of Slugworth, yet it quickly disappeared when he looked back at Charlie. “Ah! All sold out, you say? No worries, I shall come back another day, tata!”