Work Text:
Kathleen Wells sat in her private study, finishing up her latest advice blog. This week’s post encouraged readers to stop taking fiction so literally—especially when it came to things like casting choices and character backgrounds. After all, fiction wasn’t meant to follow real-world rules or adhere strictly to every modern standard. What mattered most was who could bring a character to life and create the best chemistry with their co-stars. "Why not embrace some change and enjoy a more inclusive spotlight?" she wrote, before hitting Save.
Just then, there was a knock at the door. She glanced at the clock, realizing it was time for her coffee date with Leta Morgenstern, Enchantra's apprentice and a visitor from another reality. The Ancients had encouraged cross-reality connections recently as part of the multiverse’s fragile attempt to resist Clockwork’s dark brother, Paradox.
Kathleen checked her outfit—a chartreuse long-sleeved blouse, denim capri pants, and comfortable flats—then answered the door. Standing there was Leta, still in her ghost form, her ethereal appearance taking Kathleen aback. With cotton-candy-pink hair and eyes, brown sugar skin turned pale as sugar, and a shimmering purplish-pink ensemble that fluttered like silk, Leta looked every bit the “Lavishing Leta” she was called in this form.
“Hello! I’m Leta Morgenstern. In this form, they call me ‘Lavishing Leta,’ but I can change if you’d prefer,” Leta offered with a warm smile, a halo of violet light dancing over her.
“Oh, you’re welcome as you are,” Kathleen smiled, “but feel free to shift if it’s more comfortable.” Leta’s form shimmered briefly, and soon, she appeared in her human guise—brown skin, light brown hair, and soft eyes. She wore a magenta top with lavender leggings, a touch of ease and color about her.
“Nice to meet you, Leta,” Kathleen said, ushering her in. “Can I get you anything?”
Leta paused, looking slightly uncomfortable. “I’d appreciate a snack if you have any for diabetes. I’ve been managing it all my life, but I could really use something to keep my levels steady.”
Kathleen smiled warmly. “Absolutely. I keep a stash of diet-friendly snacks in the fridge for guests. Did you check your blood sugar before you came?”
“Yes, Enchantra taught me a spell for it. I checked right before I arrived, and it showed I could use a little something to eat.” Leta relaxed, and Kathleen led her into the kitchen, retrieving a bowl of fresh berries and a glass of veggie juice.
“This is just what I needed,” Leta said, savoring the fresh berries. Kathleen brewed some herbal tea for them both, and soon they sat down, warm mugs in hand.
“So, tell me about yourself,” Kathleen prompted, sensing that Leta was ready to share.
Leta’s expression grew serious. “I’ve faced a lot of ignorance in my life. Racism, antisemitism, homophobia, you name it. I own a shop that caters to an alternative lifestyle—crystals, herbal remedies, healthy food for all kinds of dietary needs. It’s successful, but people still see me as odd. If it weren’t for my best friend, Mag, I don’t know what I’d do.”
Kathleen nodded, her face somber. “I haven’t been in this world long, but I’ve seen enough of its toxic mindsets and prejudices. Why are people so obsessed with what’s different? We’re all human. If people accepted one another, we’d have so much more joy and connection instead of this endless squabbling.”
Leta nodded. “It’s true. There’s so much stigma, so much needless controversy over things that don’t matter. I miss the simpler times before all this technology and the anger it’s brought with it.”
“I’ve been considering a blog post on that,” Kathleen replied thoughtfully. “Back then, people actually engaged with each other face to face. Parents were more involved, and manners were something everyone knew by heart.”
Leta sipped her tea thoughtfully. “Exactly. No one is hurt by people simply being themselves. Why is it so hard for others to let people just… be?”
“I’ve done some recent reading on theology, on Mag’s recommendation, and I couldn’t agree more. It seems that, regardless of faith, we’re meant to love and accept one another.”
Leta studied her with a smile. “You’re quite insightful, Kathleen.”
Kathleen blushed a little. “Thank you, Leta. So are you. Aren’t you exhausted by people thinking everyone should follow some outdated lifestyle or act ‘appropriate’ for their age?”
Leta nodded emphatically. “People need to realize that not everyone wants the same things—marriage, kids, college. And there’s no harm in living life on your own terms. Adults should act responsibly, sure, but that doesn’t mean fitting into some rigid idea of normal. It’s high time we left these outdated stereotypes behind.”
Their conversation meandered through these topics for another half-hour, both of them feeling a genuine connection. Eventually, Leta glanced at the time, realizing she had to return to her family. They hugged warmly, Kathleen promising to invite Mag along to their next meeting if possible. And as Leta stepped back through the magical doorway, Kathleen was left with a smile—grateful for another cherished friend.