Archive of Our Own ^beta

1.

Enid woke up to Wednesday’s voice. 

“Obviously it didn’t work.” She snapped, clearly upset about something.

Wednesday’s sharp tone was a cadence Enid was all-too familiar with. As Enid’s brain was pulled from her slumber by the remark, she briefly worried that Wednesday was upset with her. Tuning into Wednesday’s movements, Enid could hear her pacing along her side of the room. There was a beat of silence before Wednesday huffed, and then seemed to respond to a voice that wasn’t there. 

“Some dirty trick. I would have thought wasting my time was beneath spirits of Rotwood’s caliber.”

Enid turned her head towards the sound, and she could clearly see Wednesday talking to the wall, with no Thing in sight. 

Well, it had to happen sooner or later.

Enid sat up and stretched her arms. “Don’t tell me Wednesday Addams has finally lost her mind. You talking to walls is so not on my bingo card for this year.” 

Now that she was upright, Enid could see just how tense Wednesday’s shoulders were, and how tightly she was crossing her arms against her chest. The sight made Enid pause. What had her so worked up this early in the morning?

Wednesday pivoted to stare daggers right through Enid’s skull. By this point in their friendship, Wednesday’s death glares didn’t even make Enid flinch. If anything, she found it kind of cute…

Annoying.

Right. Enid found Wednesday’s stares to be annoying. 

Enid coughed a little as she finally stood up under Wednesday’s glare, purposefully avoiding eye contact as she made her mental correction.

“Maybe it didn’t work because you couldn’t just leave me alone.” Wednesday spat out, and Enid instantly felt indignity flare up in her chest. Wednesday was clearly pissed off, but Enid hadn’t done anything to deserve this. So she crossed her arms to match Wednesday’s stance, staring at her right back.

“What are you talking about? If you mean the conversation with Dort and your parents, I was asked to be there to talk about your failed Tyler gambit. That’s not my fault.” 

It was too early for emotions to be this heightened. Enid could usually see Wednesday’s sour moods coming, but first thing in the morning? Wednesday had clearly been upset for a while, which meant Enid had some emotional catching-up to do. She didn’t mind a challenge, though.

Wednesday scoffed.

“Did you already forget that you followed me to the graveyard last night? Your clinginess caused me to be prematurely pulled out of an important conversation.” Wednesday’s eyes narrowed as she spoke.

Enid would normally ask if Wednesday was kidding, but she knew better than that.

“Wednesday - what are you talking about?” 

Then something clicked in Enid’s brain, making her gasp. “Did you sneak out last night? Wednesday! Capri started doing dorm checks after the Hyde incident! I swear to god if your headstrong detective antics cause us to miss the gala I will throw your stupid typewriter off the balcony.”

Enid took a step towards the center of the room, a motion which was matched by Wednesday. 

“Now who’s lost her mind?” Wednesday looked Enid up and down. “I had to listen to you verbally berate me the entire 10 minute walk back from the graveyard about possibly missing the insipid gala. Your concerns about social engagements do not outweigh the importance of tracking down the Hydes by any means necessary.”

Enid almost didn’t know which part to complain about first. Thankfully, her frustration picked for her. 

“Okay, one: I cannot believe you’re still going after the Hydes. Were you by yourself? Wednesday, not even you can be so arrogant to think you can take them down alone.”

Wednesday’s eye twitched, but Enid was on a roll.

“Two: The gala is important, because I’ve been practicing my dance routine for weeks and it would be nice for my friend to recognize that! Three: I really didn’t follow you to a graveyard last night. I went to bed early after I ditched the impromptu campus safety TED Talk. Are you okay?”

As Enid talked, she was stepping closer and closer to her roommate until they were only a foot apart. From this distance, it was like Enid could read Wednesday’s mind. The subtle tells that poked through her stony exterior were on full display to Enid’s wolf-sharp and practiced eyes. Wednesday was confused, but even more than that, she looked betrayed. It was a few seconds before Wednesday finally responded.

“Fine. This just reinforces my decision to keep my actions on a need-to-know basis. If you can’t remember something as simple as where you were last night, then you don’t need to know. Enjoy your day of dance rehearsals and pointless social rituals.” With a punctuated glare, Wednesday grabbed her bag from her desk and stormed over towards the door.

So that's how she wanted this to go.

“I’m just trying my best, Wednesday. To help you, to be your friend, and yes - to participate in ‘social rituals’ so I can try and claw some normalcy into my life.” 

Enid could not believe they were arguing like this, as if it was their first few weeks living together all over again. Enid thought they had grown past all that animosity.

“‘Trying your best’ means you're planning on failing and letting me know in advance.” Wednesday put her hand on the doorknob, not making eye contact as her words hit Enid’s heart like a knife.

Where was this coming from? Out of the two of them, Enid had more of a reason to be upset than Wednesday. Enid always stuck by Wednesday through her bull-headed plans and her stupid pride, both of which usually put them in danger. But now Wednesday was lashing out at her for something she didn’t do? Enid took a wavering breath to try and swallow her anger.

“You have no idea what I’m capable of.” 

Enid knew she wasn’t in danger of wolfing out, but her hands shook as she spoke. Wednesday had no idea just how good Enid’s ‘best’ could be.

“Now who sounds arrogant?” Wednesday shot Enid one last glance before walking out of their room, slamming the door shut behind her.

Enid’s shock forced her to stay frozen in place for a few seconds after silence covered the room. Once her anger caught back up with the rest of her body, Enid let out a frustrated scream as she threw one of her pillows against the wall. 

What was Wednesday’s problem? What else does Enid have to do for Wednesday to really see her? To understand how much Enid does for her? To understand that Enid can’t picture a life without her in it?

But the odds that Wednesday would ever understand those things were dwindling by the day.

There had been something off between her and Wednesday for a while. Wednesday was spending more time with Agnes, even though she almost got Enid killed a few weeks ago. Wednesday was taking more and more risks without letting Enid in on why, and Enid could feel in her gut that Wednesday had been keeping something from her all year.

She still really cared about Wednesday, of course. Her words from last year still rang true: we shouldn’t work, but we do. After all, Enid wouldn’t choose to be Hyde bait for just anybody. She wouldn’t want just anybody to be her pack.

Enid felt herself tense at the thought. 

Her pack.

Enid sat on her bed and folded her arms across her chest. She was going to have to stay in the lupin cages tonight, outside of a full moon. Enid knew she should tell Wednesday what that meant before nightfall. Even someone as tunnel-visioned as Wednesday would notice if Enid was suddenly missing from their room…right?

Enid was pulled from her thoughts by movement in her periphery. 

Finally emerging from his trunk, Thing climbed over and up to be next to Enid on her bed.

“Hiding from the fight? Or just sleeping in?” Enid teased.

‘Both. Besides, I figured you two should work out whatever that was yourselves.’ Thing signed. ‘But, I feel the need to tell you: Wednesday’s just scared. I wouldn’t take anything she says right now too seriously.’

Enid scoffed. “Scared of what? The Hydes? Wednesday’s not barreling face-first into their path because she’s scared.”

Thing shifted back and forth, as though he was uncertain of what he was going to say next. ‘No, she’s not scared of the Hydes. She…had a vision recently that’s put her on the back foot. It’s been giving her a blind spot for anything that doesn’t concern stopping that danger by any means necessary.’

Enid furrowed her brow. “What vision did Wednesday have? If it’s important, why wouldn’t she tell me?” The emotion in Enid’s voice was slowly becoming a flood.

Thing flinched. ‘It really should come from her. I can go talk to her if you want.’

Enid sighed. “Yeah, sure, if you think it will help. She probably doesn’t want to see me right now, since she dreamed I interrupted a conversation of hers - or something - last night. When you find her, can you tell her to come see me right away? I’ll…be in the lupin cages. I’ve got something I want to tell her too.”

‘It’s not a full moon, why will you be in the cages?’

Enid smiled. Thing was an excellent listener, so she figured telling him first would make for great practice.

“Here, why don’t you ride on my shoulder while I go meet Bruno, and I’ll tell you about the scariest news I’ve ever gotten in my life.”

Making his way to the very familiar perch on Enid’s shoulder, she jumped right in as she walked out of the room.

“Okay, so it started when I was practicing my dance routine for the gala…”

***

“Sorry, Enid, I’ve got to take this.” Bruno held up his ringing phone and looked apologetic. 

Enid and the rest of the pack were hanging out in the courtyard, eating snacks and generally being the noisiest group on campus. Enid and Bruno had made their way to an empty table as soon as they got the chance. They had just started discussing plans for the gala when Bruno’s phone cut them off. 

“Oh! Yeah, no problem. I’ll be here when you’re done.” Enid tried to make her voice sound like it wasn’t a big deal, but a very deep-rooted part of her didn’t want to be alone. She had enough ‘alone time’ waiting for her in the cages later that night.

But Bruno didn’t catch Enid’s hesitation. He just gave her a small wave as he answered the call, speaking in hushed Tagalog while he walked away.

Enid sighed.

She looked around at the rest of the pack. They were all messing around and joking with each other, and Enid had the conscious thought that maybe she should want to join them. She should want to have fun and bond with everyone else…but she knew deep down she didn’t. There was really only one person Enid wanted to hang out with right now, and she was off who-knows-where doing who-knows-what with Thing and Agnes. 

Somewhere without her.

When Agnes had come to collect Thing from the courtyard, the little annoyance had very specifically said it didn’t concern Enid.

“If Wednesday wanted your YA werewolf drama interfering with her investigation, I’m sure she would have said so. Leave the dangerous tasks to those of us who can handle it, Malibu Barbie.” 

Enid’s claws were out before Bruno could stop her.

“If anything happens to Wednesday while you just stand around like the world’s most unwanted wallflower, I’ll show you what real danger is.” Enid threatened.

Agnes just tilted her head like Enid said something funny.

“Down, pup. Wednesday knows what she’s doing, especially when she’s not being held back.”

Bruno had to physically grab Enid’s arm before she lunged. 

Thing had also tried to calm the situation down, signing quickly from the table. ‘Enid, I’ll make sure she’s okay. I’ll also make sure Wednesday knows where you are tonight. You’ve got this.’

Enid took a deep breath and reluctantly allowed Bruno to pull her away from Wednesday’s bite-sized sidekick. 

“Thanks, Thing. You and Wednesday stay safe, okay?” Enid purposefully didn’t look at Agnes as she carried Thing off, towards whatever plan Wednesday had concocted for that day. 

A plan that didn’t involve her.

Which left Enid alone at a table, with no Wednesday, no Thing, and no Bruno around. She was surrounded by the other Furs, but she felt completely separate from them. Enid spared a glance over at Bruno, but his back was to her as he continued his conversation in private. The isolation just gave Enid time to think about Wednesday even more. 

What was she doing right now? Was it safe? Why did Enid care so much, when Wednesday kept treating her like less than a friend? 

But Enid couldn’t help but care. Despite everything, Enid cared. She cared about Wednesday, about their friendship, and even about this crazy mission Wednesday was determined to see through. Even if she didn’t have all the pieces of that puzzle, Enid still wanted to help in whatever way she could. 

But, no. She was alone. 

Nobody in the pack knew about her alpha status. Capri said it was her secret to tell, and Enid didn’t have any urge to let the pack in on that yet. Maybe it was because they would be the ones trying to kill her if she got stuck in her wolf form, or maybe she still wasn’t over how they treated her before she wolfed out for the first time. 

There was only one person Enid wanted to talk about this with. 

Enid closed her eyes and grimaced.

Sure - maybe Bruno should be her first choice to talk to, or maybe even her brothers should make the top of the list. Or anyone in the pack at all. But Enid’s bond with Wednesday was different. If Enid trusted anyone with her secret, if there was anyone she wanted to come looking for her if she got stuck as a wolf, it was Wednesday Addams.

Enid really did not want to think about what that meant.

Luckily, Enid was saved from her own train of thought by Ms. Capri.

“Enid! There you are.” The music teacher came jogging up to her table, wearing a sympathetic smile. “I wanted to make sure you were in the lupin cages before sundown, just to be safe.”

Enid cringed, but nodded. “Yeah, I know. I just wanted to spend some time with the pack beforehand, I guess.”

Ms. Capri’s smile grew. “That’s great! I know I told you that your strength will be in your pack, so I’m glad you’re taking my advice. But we really should be going.” She held out a hand for Enid to stand up. 

Taking it, Enid got up and looked over at Bruno again. She let out a small sigh when she noticed he was still on the phone, with his back still to the courtyard. 

“I’m just going to say goodbye really fast.” Enid motioned over to Bruno, and Capri nodded in allowance. 

“Hey!” Enid said, entering Bruno’s field of view. Bruno full-body flinched at her arrival, hanging up the phone as fast as he could in his panic. 

That was weird.

“Everything okay?” Enid asked, now suddenly wondering who he had been talking to. 

“Oh, yeah.” Bruno smiled as he adopted a more relaxed posture. “You just scared me. I was talking to my mom, um, about you and me and the gala. Is everything okay with you?”

Enid tilted her head. She had no reason to distrust Bruno, especially since he talked to his mom on the phone a lot, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. Unfortunately, Enid really didn’t have the bandwidth to think too much about that at the moment.

“Yeah, I’m just heading out for the rest of the day with Capri. I wanted to say goodbye before I left.” Enid made sure her tone was light, so Bruno hopefully wouldn’t pick up on anything being off. 

But his eyebrow raised in confusion. “What are you doing with Capri? The full moon’s not for a few days.”

“I know! Everything’s fine, she just wants my help with something. We’ll talk tomorrow?” Enid put a hand on his arm in what she hoped was a comforting gesture, or maybe even a distracting one. Either way, he didn’t push.

“Yeah, we’ll talk tomorrow. I should probably call my mom back anyway, after hanging up so quickly.” Bruno gave her a weak smile, and Enid couldn’t find the energy to match it.

“Sounds good. Tell her I say ‘hi’.”

“I will. Hey, Ms. Capri.” Bruno’s attention shifted to their teacher, who had walked up behind them sometime in the last few seconds. 

“Hello, Bruno. I have to take Enid for now, but you’ll have her back soon enough. Make sure the pack doesn’t get into too much trouble today, yes?” Capri’s eyes left no room for discussion.

“Of course, Ms. Capri. I’ll see you both around!” Bruno then turned to the courtyard, looking in horror at the impromptu game of rugby that had sprung up. 

Capri chuckled. “Good luck.” She then turned to look at Enid. “Are you ready?”

Nodding and letting herself be led away, Enid took one last look around the campus as she walked to the lupin cages, hopelessly searching for a glimpse of black braids. 

***

“If I wolfed out and couldn't change back, would you come and find me? Please?”

Enid whispered the words to an empty room. She had never heard the lupin cages so quiet, and the silence added to the uneasiness she felt at being here at all. Neither playing music nor any of the meditation apps she’d downloaded helped her mood - her mind kept wandering to what was happening outside the walls of the cages. What a certain someone might be up to, and whether she might actually come by tonight.

So Enid started practicing what she might say if Wednesday actually showed up. She couldn’t figure out the most normal way to say: I’m an alpha wolf, and I might be stuck as a wolf if I transform under the next full moon, and Capri said I need my pack to help me…but I really only want your help?

Enid leaned her head against the wall. Wednesday might not even come. 

As if on cue, Enid heard shouting in the distance. “Enid!”

Enid shot to her feet, tilting her head a little as she listened harder. Had she just imagined that? Or was it really…

“Enid! Enid, get out of there!” 

The joy Enid felt upon hearing Wednesday’s voice quickly turned to confusion. Why would Wednesday want her to leave the cages? Maybe Wednesday just didn’t understand the whole ‘alpha’ situation yet, and how dangerous Enid could be to everyone if she accidentally wolfed out. Also, surely Wednesday knew Enid couldn’t just leave - the cages were built to withstand thrashing werewolves, so Enid wasn’t going anywhere without a key.

Whatever the situation was, Enid called back out to Wednesday. “I’m in the cages! What’s going on?”

Wednesday’s voice was closer when she responded, and her out-of-breath huffing made Enid think she was sprinting towards the building. “Enid! Get. Out. Now! You’re in danger!”

Danger? Enid looked around the empty lupin cages, not sure what Wednesday could have meant. Did Wednesday think she was in danger of wolfing out? 

That was the moment Enid heard the ticking.

It was very faint, and if it wasn’t for her wolf senses, she would have missed the noise completely. Following the sound, with Wednesday’s frantic voice in the background getting closer and closer, Enid identified the source under her cot.

Pushed against the wall was a brown box, and Enid could see a word written in black marker on the side: Contingency. Reaching for it, Enid slid it out from underneath the bed, and picked it up in her hands. It wasn’t very heavy, but Enid almost dropped it once her sense of smell picked up what was inside.

Silver.

“Shit!” Enid slid the box across the floor, as far away from the door as she could before she started pulling on the bars. 

“Wednesday!” Enid shouted, knowing she couldn’t get out of here alone. Her heart started to race, and she could feel her fight or flight instincts start to kick in. Enid’s wolf wanted out, but she knew it wouldn’t be able to help against the bars, and certainly not against silver.

“Enid!” Wednesday’s voice was right outside the main doors, and Enid could finally hear her footsteps as she rushed closer.

“Wednesday! There's -” Enid cut herself off as she glanced back towards the box. 

It had stopped ticking.

Enid had just enough time to read the words written on the other side of the box, which were revealed after she spun it away.

With love, from the Galpins.

“Wednes -”

The box exploded. 

The force of the blast sent Enid flying through the crushed metal of the cage door. Her body rolled a few times as the propulsion sent her down the entire length of the hallway before landing hard with a THUD. 

The only thing Enid could feel was her back, which was on fire. Pieces of silver shrapnel had embedded themselves deep into her skin, and her muscles refused to move through the pain. Her ears were ringing, so she couldn’t hear the walls of the building starting to crumble, but she could feel the vibrations of the falling rock and metal as it hit the ground around her.

Enid’s vision was closing in as though it was slowly being consumed by a black hole. None of her limbs were answering her brain’s call to move. Her breaths were coming shallowly and slowly. 

She knew that she was dying.

Her eyelids were getting heavy, and Enid could feel herself begin to slip away. 

And then suddenly there were hands cupping her cheeks. Cold hands. With the last bit of strength Enid had, she forced her eyes open.

The first thing she saw was Wednesday’s face. It was speckled with dirt, and there was blood running down the side of her head. Enid wanted to lift her hand to match Wednesday’s grip on her own face, but she couldn’t get her arms to obey. 

Wednesday was saying something, and Enid could feel an arm slide under her back, pulling her up into Wednesday’s lap. Enid could not hear anything over the ringing that still deafened her ears, but she still tried to focus her eyes on her friend. Wednesday’s lip was trembling slightly as she spoke, and Enid could swear there was a tear forming in her eye. While Enid wished she could hear Wednesday’s words, she took comfort in the feeling of cold arms around her body. It was almost like the hug they shared last year.

Enid let the safety of Wednesday’s embrace take her away. The last thought Enid had before the nothingness overtook her was: she came to see me.

2.

Enid woke up to a knife at her throat.

“Woah!” Enid’s claws extended as her body reacted to the presence of a weapon. It took her eyes a few extra seconds to recognize that the person holding the knife was Wednesday Addams. 

“Wednesday? What are you doing?” Enid’s voice came out shrill. Considering the way she woke up, she shouldn’t be blamed for the emotion seeping through unchecked. Breathing deeply, Enid kept one clawed hand up towards Wednesday, while the other wrapped around the wrist holding the knife, trying to gently move it away from her neck.

But Wednesday simply pressed harder. Enid watched with wide eyes as Wednesday’s face twisted in a way she’s never seen before. It was almost…manic. Wednesday’s eyes were narrowed and angry, and whatever other emotions were mixed in, she wasn’t even attempting to put on her normal, stoic facade.

It was the most frightening thing Enid had ever seen.

“Who are you?” Wednesday asked, venom dripping from every part of her voice. 

The words barely registered in Enid’s head. She had never seen Wednesday like this before - like she was possessed. There was so much raw emotion in her eyes, Enid briefly wondered if Wednesday had been possessed. 

But then Wednesday’s words clicked in Enid’s brain.

“What? Wednesday - it’s me! It’s Enid!” Enid’s breath hitched as she felt Wednesday’s hand begin to shake, and she watched in disbelief as Wednesday blinked. For a second, it almost looked like Wednesday was trying to blink away a tear. 

Well, that couldn’t be right.

“You are not Enid. Enid’s dead.”

There was a beat. Then another.

“WHAT?” Enid screamed, finally using her wolf strength to push Wednesday’s hand away from her neck. Scrambling to her feet, Enid had only a moment to try and gain her composure before Wednesday was crowding her space again. The knife found its way back against Enid’s throat, with Wednesday’s other hand grabbing at Enid’s shirt to hold her still.

Enid didn’t try to fight it this time. She was too busy looking at Wednesday’s face to see if she was kidding. But really, she knew better than that.

“Wednesday, what are you talking about? I’m fine - I’m alive! I’m right here.” Enid put one of her hands over Wednesday’s, trying to get her to loosen the grip on her shirt. 

Wednesday was breathing heavily and her eyes were searching Enid’s for something. Enid desperately wished she knew how to give Wednesday whatever it was she was looking for. Instead, she forced Wednesday to let go of her shirt and just held her hand for a moment. Then, either led by desperate instinct or divine inspiration, Enid placed Wednesday’s hand over her heart. 

“I’m alive. See?” 

Wednesday’s hand was cold. If Enid’s higher thought processes had been working correctly in that moment, she would have admired the contrast of her continuously hot werewolf skin with the lovely cool touch of Wednesday’s hand.

But Enid’s brain had stopped working the moment she pressed Wednesday’s palm against her heart. By contrast, Enid’s heart was working just fine, and the traitorous beat sped up at the contact. Enid was certain she might die of embarrassment before Wednesday could actually use her knife. 

Looking into Wednesday’s eyes, there was a moment where it seemed like she was just as frozen in place as Enid was.

Of course, Wednesday snapped out of it first.

Keeping the knife held up, she snatched her other hand away from Enid’s heart, flexing it over and over again as if burned by the contact. Enid had to consciously remind herself to not take that personally - she probably pushed Wednesday a little too far with the ‘hand over heart’ move. Honestly, she felt she had pushed herself a little far with that one. Where did that come from?

“Tell me -” Wednesday cleared her throat and quickly regained her composure, staring Enid down from her small height disadvantage. “Tell me something only Enid Sinclair would know.”

The tension held thick in the air as Enid forced herself to answer as coherently as possible. 

“Um…my middle name is Elizabeth. Why are you asking?” 

Nothing made sense. There was probably a perfectly logical explanation for what was going on, but Enid’s brain was too busy thinking about the cold imprint over her heart to put it all together.

Wednesday shook her head, keeping the knife up. “I said something only Enid would know. I even know what Enid’s middle name is.”

“You do?” Enid asked incredulously. She had never mentioned it to Wednesday before, so how did she know that? “Did you go looking through my student file or -”

“Try again. Something only Enid would know.”

Ugh. This girl. But Enid was willing to go along with whatever Wednesday needed, because she was clearly freaked out. And, because the perfect example popped into her head at that exact moment.

“Well, it’s not only me, since Capri was the one to explain what was going on in the first place, but I haven’t told anybody yet - not even in the pack. I don’t know why I haven’t said anything, really. Or, maybe I do? I think I wanted to talk it out with you first, actually, since the pack could turn on me if things go wrong, and I think you’re the one I’d want chasing after me if that happens, you know?”

Enid took a deep breath. She really should have practiced what she was going to say. Wednesday just kept staring at her with those emotion-soaked eyes, waiting for her to continue. Enid took another breath and looked away.

“Anyway, all that’s to say is that I’m…an alpha wolf.” Enid gulped. “It means I’m really dangerous to be around right now. It also means that I might get stuck in my wolf form if I transform under the next full moon, and then the pack will try to kill me if that happens. I - I was told by Capri that my strength will come from my pack, and they’ll help me through this, but I don’t think she’s right. I think that you’re the only one who can help me. Or at the very least, the one who I want to come find me if the worst happens.”

Enid glanced up as she finished rambling and saw that Wednesday had finally lowered the knife. They were still standing very close to each other, and Enid was finding it very hard to control her breathing. She clenched her hands into fists to stop them from shaking as she waited desperately for Wednesday to say something. 

Wednesday’s face looked like it was piecing together one of her classic mysteries. Her eyes were focused, and her brow was slightly furrowed. After a few seconds of taking in the information, she finally responded in her signature neutral tone.

“So that’s why you were in the lupin cages.”

It took Enid a beat too long to realize that wasn’t right.

“Um, it’s why I have to go to the lupin cages tonight, yeah. Capri is going to want me there before the sun goes down, and -”

“No.” Wednesday’s interruption was so forceful it made Enid jump. To add to her surprise, Wednesday firmly reached out to grab at Enid’s arm as she interjected, which added a whole other layer to Enid’s stuttering response. 

“Wednesday. What is going on with you? Are you okay?”

Wednesday shook her head and looked at the door. “There’s a bomb in the lupin cages. I have to disarm it.”

With no other comment or context, Wednesday ran towards the door and out of their shared room. Leaving Enid alone, trying to piece together what just happened. 

Her gaze was suddenly drawn to the ground, where Thing was trying to get her attention. 

“Oh, and where were you during all this? She had a knife to my throat, Thing!”

‘What could I have done? I just woke up to you two arguing! Do you know what’s going on?’ Thing’s movements told Enid he was just as worried as she was. 

“I was going to ask you that. Do you think she’s losing her mind? We could try calling her parents, or maybe Fester?”

Thing shook his hand. ‘No, she wouldn’t want her family interfering just yet. We should try and find her first and get more information. Did she say she was going to disarm a bomb?’

Enid gasped as Wednesday’s last statement finally caught up to her.

“Oh shit! C’mon Thing, we’ve gotta get to the cages!”

Picking Thing up in her arms, Enid ran as fast as she could after Wednesday, wondering what on earth her friend had gotten herself into.

***

“Well, it’s a good thing there’s not a bomb. Right?” 

Enid was sitting in the hallway of the lupin cages, watching Wednesday tear her room apart for the third time. Thing was doing his own bomb sweep of the other cages, continuously confirming that there were no explosives in those rooms either.

“It doesn’t make any sense.” Wednesday muttered. “Tyler said their contingency was planted days ago. Why wouldn’t it be here?”

Enid was watching Wednesday with worried eyes. She had managed to piece together a few things from Wednesday’s mumbling, but she still felt like she was playing catch-up.

“So, you had a vision of a bomb in the cages? Planted there by Tyler?” Enid prompted, trying to get Wednesday’s attention away from the clearly non-trapped cot.

“It wasn’t a vision.” Wednesday stated, her eyes finally locking on Enid’s. Her gaze was so striking, Enid was inclined to believe her. But what else could it have been?

“Okay. Not a vision. So then, what was it? Why did you think there was a bomb?” Enid looked over at Thing, who had just joined Enid in the hallway. 

“I don’t know.” Wednesday’s tone remained indifferent, but her hands stayed busy, searching a room Enid knew was empty of dangers. “I took Agnes and Thing to go searching for the Hydes -”

“Without me?” Enid gasped, very hurt by the news. Her eyes flicked accusatorily at Thing, who waved her off quickly.

‘I have no idea what she’s talking about! I’ve been on campus since Tyler and Francoise left!’ 

Looking up to complain more at Wednesday, Enid found that she was still talking to herself.

“- then they hinted at the bomb’s existence. Thing told me you were in the cages, and I came right here. It went off somewhere in this room, I’m sure of it.”

Enid stood up and walked to the cage door. “Well, the bomb isn’t there now. I think everything’s going to be okay. Can you come with me to explain to Capri why the lupin cages have been trashed? I still need a place to stay tonight, so it’ll be great if I can get a new, un-dismantled bed in one of these rooms.” 

Enid tried to gesture with her arms to get Wednesday to follow her, but Wednesday’s eyes seemed to move past her, focusing on something behind Enid.

“I’m not sure I want your opinion right now.” Wednesday said coldly. 

Enid gasped. “What? Wednesday, I’m only trying to help you walk away from this ledge you seem to be hovering near, and -”

“Not you, Enid. I’m talking to Principal Weems.” Wednesday’s eyes were still focused on something behind Enid, so she turned to follow her gaze. Enid’s not really sure what she expected to find, but when all she saw was Thing giving her a small wave, Enid sighed. She slowly turned back to face her friend, who was clearly having some kind of mental break.

“Um. Wednesday. I think you need to go talk to your mom. Principal Weems died last year - you know that, right?”

Wednesday rolled her eyes. “Principal Weems is my new, and very unwanted, spirit guide. She has an opinion on what happened yesterday.”

Sure. Why not?

“Alright then. I’m going to let you two talk while I go find Ms. Capri. She’s probably looking for me anyway.” Enid took a couple steps back, watching as Wednesday’s eyes tracked an invisible figure, crossing her arms in annoyance at something she heard.

It was always something with Wednesday, wasn’t it?

Thing stayed with Wednesday, signing to Enid as she left, ‘I’ll keep an eye on her. When you get back, you should ask her about a vision she had at the beginning of the year. It might clear up some of what’s going on with her today.’

“So she did have a vision about a bomb? Why wouldn’t she tell me that?”

‘No, she had…just ask about it when you get back. It should come from her.’

“Okay, sure. Will you please make sure she doesn’t go looking for the Hydes alone? I didn’t like what I heard in there just now.” 

Thing saluted as Enid left the lupin cages. 

Stepping into the fresh air, Enid paused to really take in her day so far. Wednesday thought she was dead, from a bomb in the lupin cages. Wednesday knew her middle name. Enid told her about being an alpha wolf, and Wednesday hadn’t seemed all that shocked. She actually hadn’t commented on it at all, really. Was Enid being too presumptuous when she told Wednesday she wanted her help? Enid shuddered, thinking about how it could have gone if she had actually told Wednesday she thought of them as a pack. Would Wednesday have known what that meant? Enid shook her head, trying to clear her head. She’d talk to Wednesday after straightening this out with Capri.

Ugh, Capri. How could Enid best explain why the lupin cages needed to be refurnished before she could use them tonight?

Enid turned to head back to campus, but stopped when she saw a figure in the treeline nearby. The silhouette was moving with a limp, like they were badly injured.

“Hey! Are you alright?” Enid jogged over, quickly getting a better view of the man. He had stringy black hair, and skin that almost looked rotten. Enid had to hold her breath to stop the sudden stench of decaying flesh from entering her nose. It was rancid. 

Enid's wolf instincts told her that something was very wrong.

“Oh, I’m alright.” The man said, turning to face Enid. Looking at his face head-on, there was only one word that came to her mind: zombie.

Enid’s claws came out before she could think better of it. Logically, she knew that wolfing out here would be dangerous not only for herself, but anyone else nearby. So she held her ground, keeping her wolf at bay for now.

The man glanced down. “There’s no need for that. I’m just here to fulfill a contingency for Wednesday.”

Enid paused, and lowered her hands. “For Wednesday?”

As soon as Enid said her name, Wednesday walked out of the lupin cages, with Thing close behind. 

“Enid!” She called. “We’re going back to Rotwood’s grave to figure this out.”

Enid’s head turned towards the voice. She made eye contact with Wednesday from the small distance that separated them, shooting her a confused look. Who was Rotwood?

But Wednesday was staring at her in shock. Enid tensed as Wednesday started sprinting in her direction, her face twisted into something unfamiliar. What was she doing?

“Isaac, stop!” Wednesday shouted.

Enid had just enough time to register that she probably should not have turned her back on a zombie, before her skull was bitten in half from behind.

Enid was gone before her body hit the ground.

3.

Enid woke up to Wednesday frantically shaking her shoulders.

“Woah!” Enid’s claws extended as her body reacted to the unexpected presence of someone waking her up. It took her eyes a few extra seconds to recognize Wednesday as the person who was unceremoniously rattling her awake.

“Wednesday? What are you doing?”

“We’re going to the graveyard. Stay by my side until I figure out how to stop you from dying today.” Wednesday took a step away from Enid’s bed and put a backpack over her shoulders. It was hard to miss the crossbow very clearly sticking out from the top.

“WHAT?” Enid jumped out of bed, trying to understand what Wednesday was saying. It really was too early for any of this. First, Wednesday was initiating physical contact, and now she was talking about saving her life? Enid couldn’t decide which was weirder.

“Did you have a vision of me dying? Or is this some kind of threat because I told Dort and your parents about the Hyde plan?”

“That’s well in the past, Enid.” Wednesday looked a little annoyed as she spoke. It took Enid a bit by surprise - if anyone had the right to feel annoyed right now, it was her. But Wednesday continued. “I had a vision of you dying. Now come with me if you want to live.”

Enid didn’t need any more convincing after that. She would follow Wednesday to most places, vision or not. But that didn’t mean she was going to go quietly.

“Why are we going to the graveyard?”

“To visit the grave of Rosaline Rotwood.”

“Who’s Rosaline Rotwood?”

“A very powerful Raven. I believe she is the source of a dirty trick being played on me.”

“What trick?”

“It doesn’t matter. All that matters is that it ends.”

“What kind of vision did you have?”

“At the beginning of the semester, I had a premonition which decreed that you would die because of me.”

“The beginning of the semester? Wednesday! Why didn’t you say anything earlier?”

“I wasn’t sure if you could handle a message of your own impending doom.”

Enid stopped in her tracks. They were a few yards from the cemetery's entrance, but Enid couldn’t get her feet to move. Wednesday turned around when she heard Enid stop walking. 

“What are you doing? You need to stay close to me. It’s for your own good.”

“You -” Enid balled her hands into fists to stop them from shaking. “I knew you were keeping something from me.” 

Enid felt tears begin to form in her eyes, and she couldn’t even begin to guess which emotion put them there. “Is that how you think of me? As someone too weak to handle the idea of danger? Somebody you need to pity and protect, like a child?” 

She met Wednesday’s eyes, who was staring at her unblinkingly from the graveyard steps. “You have no idea what I’m capable of.”

Wednesday took a step towards Enid, maintaining their eye contact. “I know you are an alpha wolf, Enid. But even that can’t save you. Now come with me so I can get to the bottom of this.”

Enid’s entire world spun on its axis. 

How did Wednesday know that she was an alpha? Did Wednesday know what that means for Enid, or the risks involved to the people around her? Enid had a whole speech she wanted to practice before telling Wednesday that she was her pack - that she had always been her pack.

But it was obvious Wednesday didn’t feel the same way. 

Wednesday had been lying to her all year, keeping her at arms length while she planned things without including Enid. Because she thought Enid was weak. Because she didn’t think Enid could help, even as an alpha wolf.

Enid took a step back.

“How do you know that? I haven’t told anybody that. Not even the pack knows.”

Wednesday took a step forward. “Never mind how I know that. Stay close to me while I try to save your life.”

Enid couldn’t help it, she laughed. 

“Wednesday, you say you’re trying to save my life, but even now you won’t include me in the plan. You can’t even stop your tunnel-visioned mission long enough to treat me like a real person, much less a friend. Do you even know what it means to be an alpha? I could end up a lone wolf! Hunted by the other wolves! But you don’t care.” Enid took another step back, suddenly wanting to be alone and think all of this through.

“Enid.” Wednesday said, taking a step forward to try and close the distance. “I have already seen you die twice in as many days. I will not permit a third. We can discuss your personal life once I’ve ensured that you get to continue having one.”

Enid paused. Twice in as many days. What did that mean? 

“Wednesday, what is the dirty trick Rosaline Rotwood is playing on you?” Enid had half an idea forming in her head, so she stood her ground, waiting for Wednesday to finish it for her.

Wednesday took a step back. 

“I believe,” Wednesday started, but cut herself off by taking an uncharacteristic deep breath. When she spoke again she did so slowly, but without averting her gaze from Enid’s. “Rosaline Rotwood is making me live out different versions of your death, before resetting the day. I think it is a punishment for breaking the Raven’s gaze while I attempted to regain my psychic ability some nights ago.”

Enid increased the distance between them. The reality of what Wednesday was saying settled over Enid like an oppressive weight.

“You failed to get your psychic ability back…and now I have to die?” Enid ran her hand through her hair as the pieces came together. “Of course that’s what's happening. Wednesday, this is just your arsonist-slash-firefighter complex on display again! You unleash chaos just so you can stamp it out and then feel superior. You don’t ever slow down long enough to see how it actually affects the people around you - and you definitely don’t ever consider how I might feel.”

Wednesday stayed rooted where she was, with a fire in her eyes that Enid had seen many times before: Wednesday was angry. 

Good.

“Enid, I am doing all of this to save you. I would not repeatedly put myself at odds with two Hydes, a zombie, an avian, and my own mother to save just anybody.”

Enid stepped back again. “Are you doing all of that to save me? Or to get your psychic ability back?”

Wednesday said nothing. She just continued to stare at Enid with an unreadable expression. It spoke volumes.

“That’s what I thought. If it was really about me, you would have told me about this sooner. A friend would recognize what I have to contribute. They would know I don’t have to be coddled, or held at arms length.” Enid turned away, walking back to the campus. “Good luck, Wednesday.”

Enid didn’t hear a response, but the faint echo of retreating footsteps told Enid that Wednesday went to the grave anyway.

Fine.

Let her think that she’s saving Enid’s life. Keeping secrets, hanging out with Agnes, pushing her away all year? Enid knew Wednesday didn’t know how to be a good friend yet, but she really thought they were closer than…that. She thought they were close enough to be a pack.

Some pack that turned out to be.

Wednesday Addams was the most infuriating person Enid had ever -

She stopped dead in her tracks. There was a scent on the wind that made Enid’s fight or flight activate. It was a smell she would recognize anywhere.

Tyler was somewhere close by, and his Hyde was loose.

Enid had barely formed the conscious thought to transform before her inner wolf was pushing to the surface. Sensing a hunt on the horizon, Enid was soon howling into the daytime sky as she sprinted after the Hyde’s scent. 

Her wolf was fast and the Hyde stench was strong, so Enid had no problem finding his trail within a minute. But it was with growing horror that Enid realized her trajectory was heading directly back towards the cemetery. 

Towards Wednesday.

Pushing her muscles to move even faster, Enid made it back to the graveyard just in time to see the Hyde jumping over the outer fencing, barreling directly towards a frozen-in-place Wednesday. She had one hand on a gravestone and was clearly in the middle of a vision, seeing as though her head was thrown back and she didn’t react at all to the Hyde’s presence.

Enid didn’t hesitate before launching herself directly into his path. 

Their claws and teeth gnashed and pulled on each other from the second they impacted. Enid was frenzied, trying everything in her power to keep him away from Wednesday. Her claws took a chunk out of the Hyde’s shoulder, but that just caused his much-longer claws to retaliate against her neck. 

Enid felt the blood begin to gush out of the wound like a dam had burst, and she resisted the urge to cry out. Her sole focus was on pushing through the pain and the wooziness that threatened to overtake her. Tyler would not hurt Wednesday today.

Enid found an opening to bite down on one of the Hyde’s arms, causing him to scream out in pain and stagger backwards, away from Rotwood’s grave. Enid quickly followed it up with another attack, but her claws didn’t break the Hyde’s tough skin. 

Tyler’s claws found no such issue.

In one long swipe, he cut Enid’s abdomen open, leaving only ribbons of flesh behind. It was Enid’s turn to scream in pain as she doubled over, trying to keep her insides from falling out. Her eyes drifted over to Wednesday, who was still in a vision. Enid knew what she had to do.

She reached out with one clawed hand and pinned the Hyde’s foot to the ground, stopping him from advancing on an unsuspecting Wednesday. Now that he was stuck in place, Enid got enough leverage to bite his back leg all the way through with a satisfying CRUNCH. 

Tyler released a whimpered snarl at the contact. He managed to rip his foot back with a flash of blood, before slamming a clawed hand down on Enid’s skull. 

Enid’s head hit the ground hard and bounced from the momentum of the blow, making her see stars as her body began to go limp. Fighting through her blurry eyesight to look at Wednesday, Enid could see her finally come out of the vision. 

“Enid!” She heard Wednesday cry out. The sound was quickly followed by the release of two crossbow bolts, and Enid heard the satisfying whimper of the Hyde as he made a tactical retreat. His limping body left a trail of blood behind him, but Enid knew she would not be able to chase him down to finish the job. That wasn’t what mattered, anyway. 

Wednesday was safe. 

Enid closed her eyes.

“No, no, no. You stupid werewolf. Rotwood told me how to end the trick. You weren’t supposed to…why didn’t you just stay?” Enid felt Wednesday’s hands caress the fur around her face as she talked, and it made Enid relax.

Maybe Wednesday was right, and this day would just reset. Maybe it was all a dirty trick.

But if it wasn’t? Enid knew she would be okay with this. Wednesday was her pack, after all.

Enid fell into nothingness with the feeling of Wednesday’s hands pulling her close.

4.

Enid woke up to the clacking of Wednesday’s typewriter.

Enid turned her head towards the sound, and she could clearly see Wednesday sitting at her desk, deep in concentration. It made her groan.

“Wednesday,” Enid complained, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes as she sat up, “you said you wouldn’t work on your novel while I was sleeping anymore. It’s the weekend! What are you writing that couldn’t wait another hour?”

Pulling her legs over the edge of the bed, Enid stretched out her arms and stood up. Her eyes fell on Wednesday’s desk, hoping to get a glimpse of whatever she was writing. For how early it was, it had better be good.

But Wednesday just snatched the paper out of the rollers and shoved it into a desk drawer before Enid could see. 

That was weird. 

“It’s not my novel.” 

That was all Wednesday said as she stood up, positioning herself directly in front of the drawer she just closed, like she was guarding it.

“Oh-kay.” Enid said slowly, now really wondering what was on that piece of paper. “I’m going to hang out with the pack for a bit. Um, you’re not planning on chasing down the Hydes or anything dangerous today, are you?”

There was a brief moment where Enid wasn’t even sure if Wednesday would tell her the truth. She hadn’t included Enid on most of her plans this year anyway, and after ratting her out to Dort and her parents over the failed Tyler mission, Enid was afraid that Wednesday might never let her in again.

So when Wednesday quickly responded with, “No. I’m staying on campus. Go enjoy your social rituals.” Enid’s face did nothing to hide her surprise.

“Really? Well, if you want to swing by I'll be in the quad with everyone else.” Enid rolled on her feet as she got herself mentally ready to say the next part. “Or, actually, you could maybe meet me in the lupin cages tonight? It’s a long story, but I’ll be there before the sun goes down. Would you, um, stop by? Maybe?”

God, Enid really needed to practice what she was going to say. 

But Wednesday didn’t react to the strangeness of Enid’s ramble, and simply nodded in response. 

“Thing and I will meet you there in a few hours.”

Enid couldn’t help it - she smiled. “Okay, great! I’ll catch you soon then.”

Enid gathered up her things, checked her hair to make sure it looked nice, and gave a wave to Thing as he emerged from the trunk.

“I’m out! Don’t get into any trouble without me.” Enid rushed to the door, and had it partway open before a cold hand was grabbing her wrist. 

Enid’s entire body froze. Even her heart seemed to stop as Wednesday initiated physical contact. Enid’s eyes were the only part of her that was able to move as she glanced over at Wednesday, who looked even more serious than usual.

“Don’t get into any trouble without me, either.” Wednesday’s tone was something Enid hadn’t heard from her before: soft. “Stay safe.” 

Enid willed her heart to start beating again, and she took a deep breath before responding.

“I’m just going to be downstairs with the pack, Wednesday. I’ll be fine.” 

The two of them stayed in the doorway for a few more seconds, and Enid was entirely unsure of how to navigate her way out of the tension that was suddenly in the air. She suddenly wasn’t sure if she wanted to leave at all. Maybe she should hang out with Wednesday today. Maybe Wednesday wanted to spend time with her, and this whole ‘hand on her wrist’ thing is her way of saying that. 

Enid opened her mouth to ask if Wednesday wouldn’t mind if they did something together today, but Wednesday beat her to it.

“Try not to die.” She said, holding the door open for Enid to walk through. 

Enid chuckled. “Yeah, okay. I’ll see you later, Wednesday.” 

Walking out of their room, Enid was very sure she missed something in that conversation. Wednesday never spoke to her like that, and she never initiated physical contact, especially when Enid had her overly colorful wardrobe on. 

So what the hell was that? 

***

“Hey, I see a table over there!” Enid pulled on Bruno’s arm, careful not to disturb the two drinks he was carrying for them. 

The courtyard was lively and noisy. The pack had taken it over, running the coffee stand dry with all of their massive orders. The resulting caffeine high was already starting to take shape, and Enid knew she wanted to spend at least a few minutes alone with Bruno before her lupin cage appointment. They had a gala appearance to plan, after all.

Bruno dutifully marched over to the free table, and set their drinks down. He gave Enid a kind smile before gesturing with his head, “Do you want me to grab some lunch, too? We shouldn’t drink these things on an empty stomach.”

As if on cue, Enid’s stomach growled, making her giggle.

“Yes, thank you! Just get me whatever you’re having.”

Bruno gave her a mock salute, “You’ve got it, captain.” He then jogged off to grab some sandwiches, weaving through increasingly rowdy werewolves as he did. 

Enid watched him go with a sigh. Here she was, about to finally have some one-on-one time with Bruno (who she really likes!), to talk about the gala (which she’s really excited for!), and yet, all she could think about was Wednesday. 

Enid thought that after the past few days - with the failed Tyler gambit and the ensuing Dort meeting - that Wednesday would be frustrated or upset. Maybe not with Enid specifically, but definitely with the situation. Enid half expected to wake up and find Wednesday missing from her bed, off on some other mission to track down the Hydes. 

But instead, she had just seemed…calm? 

No, not calm. Wednesday had something serious and urgent in her eyes when she told Enid to stay safe. She thought about it a lot, but she couldn’t put a finger on what Wednesday might have been doing this morning. 

Enid was so lost in thought, she almost missed the shuffling of feet next to her.

Invisible feet next to her.

Enid’s claws extended towards the sound. “What do you want, Agnes? Stalking me when I’m just sitting down with the pack has got to be a new low.”

After a few seconds, the Vanisher slowly made herself visible. She was standing with her hands clasped behind her back, her head tilted as if Enid had said something funny.

“Sheath the claws, Malibu Barbie. I’m not stalking you for fun. Wednesday asked that I make sure you don’t get into any danger today. But outside of catching cooties from discount Teen Wolf over there, I’m not really sure what she had in mind.”

Enid shot to her feet. “She what?”

Agnes followed the motion with her owl-like eyes, enjoying Enid’s emotional outburst. But Enid couldn’t find it within herself to care. Wednesday was trying to make sure Enid wasn’t in danger? Did that mean when Wednesday said ‘try not to die’, that she actually thought Enid was going to die? 

Enid had a million questions, and there was only one person she intended on asking them all to. 

Pushing past Agnes, Enid sprinted her way back up to Ophelia Hall. Distantly, she heard Bruno shout after her, but Enid just waved him off as she turned a corner. This shouldn’t take too long.

Walking into the dorm with a huff, Enid stopped dead in her tracks as soon as she took in the space. Her side of the room was a mess. The drawers of her desk were flung open, most of her clothes had been tossed on the ground, and her stuffed animal collection had been scattered to all corners of the room. 

Wednesday wasn’t there, but Enid’s eyes zeroed in on Thing, who was moving on top of her desk. It looked like he was trying to put her stuff back into her desk drawers, but was having trouble with one of her books. Enid stomped right over.

“Thing!” She shouted, making him flinch. He dropped the book he was holding and started signing as Enid continued. “What on earth happened here? Where’s Wednesday?”

‘I couldn’t stop her! She kept going on about someone called Rosaline Rotwood and a trick of some kind - and how the key to fixing everything was learning your secrets? Enid, I’m really sorry.’ 

Thing was moving quickly and erratically, but Enid thought she caught the gist. It didn’t clear anything up at all, though.

“She - she was looking for secrets? What could that possibly mean? Where is she?” Enid went looking at Wednesday’s side of the room for any clues about what could have possibly possessed her friend. 

Thing followed close behind, still trying to explain what happened. ‘She was worried about you being in danger, but wouldn’t tell me much else. She left a few minutes before you got here.’ 

Enid scoffed. “If she was so worried about me being in danger, why wouldn’t she just say something? Why would she send her mini-creep to stalk me when I’m hanging out with Bruno?” 

Enid’s eyes fell on Wednesday’s typewriter. Wednesday said she wasn’t working on her novel this morning, and the piece of paper that currently sat between the rollers looked familiar. Without thinking, Enid snatched it from its place and read what Wednesday was working on. It left Enid with more questions than answers.

“A dirty trick shall be played upon you, the poor soul who has broken the Raven’s gaze. You have until dawn to unravel the innermost secrets of the life you wish to save.”

Life I Wish to Save: Enid’s

Innermost Secrets of Enid’s Life:

• Things hidden on her side of the room. (Diary? Skeletons in closet?)
• Secrets in the pack (alpha status, social hierarchies/the boyfriend?)
• Secrets held by her friends (Yoko, Bianca, The Ex, The other Siren)
• Family secrets (brothers are on campus)
• Student File/Academic History (stolen and configured last year)
• Social Media (Steal her phone? Password is numerical code for ‘Styles’)

Until Dawn: Current Impossibility. 

How do I Keep Enid Alive Until Dawn?

The page ended there, and Enid stood frozen in place, trying to take it all in. Wednesday thought Enid was going to die today, before dawn. She was looking for her secrets…to try and stop it? And then - to top it all off - somehow Wednesday already knew that Enid was an alpha wolf. 

Enid had no idea where to start.

“Thing! What - why - what the hell is this?”

Thing, who had climbed on Wednesday’s desk to get a look at the paper, shrugged. 

‘I can’t even begin to guess. You really need to ask her. When she left, she was talking about gathering more of your secrets - if that helps?’

Enid looked back at the paper. After ransacking her room, Wednesday’s next idea for digging up secrets was…

“Shit. She went to the pack.” Enid stuffed the paper in her pocket and raced right back to the courtyard, mentally cursing the idea that Wednesday may have snuck right by her as Enid stormed back up to their room. 

As Enid’s momentum sent her hurtling back into the courtyard, she immediately spotted her monochromatic friend on the other side, yelling at someone. Enid’s eyes adjusted quickly to the sunlight, and she realized with horror that Wednesday was verbally berating Bruno - and she was doing it in Tagalog? Since when did Wednesday speak Tagalog?

But that was not even close to being Enid’s most pressing question. Right now, she just needed Wednesday to stop whatever interrogation she was giving her boyfriend. Based on Bruno’s sunken body language, Wednesday was successfully delivering some sort of threat. Closing the distance in a hurry, Enid threw herself between the two of them. 

“Wednesday! What do you think you’re doing?” Enid put a hand up on Bruno’s shoulder as she glared at her friend, trying to get her to back down with only a look.

But Wednesday just crossed her arms. “Bruno has something he’d like to discuss with you.”

Enid glanced back at Bruno, who looked like a cornered animal. He started sputtering a bit as he spoke, “Um - well, Enid. You have to understand that -”

Enid cut him off. “Bruno, we’ll talk later. This is about me and Wednesday right now. Go hang out with the rest of the pack, I’ll be there soon.”

Bruno looked between her and Wednesday, almost as if he was looking for permission to leave. When Wednesday stayed silent, Bruno took a few steps back.

“Yeah, for sure. Come and find me when you’re done,” he managed to get out. If Bruno had been in his wolf form at that moment, Enid was sure his tail would have been tucked between his legs as he ran off.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Enid whirled back to face Wednesday, who was still just standing there with her arms crossed. 

“What is your problem? Not just in general, but like, today specifically. What are you doing?” Enid didn’t bother trying to hide her frustrated tone. She needed answers - now.

Wednesday’s response was just as neutral as Enid expected. “I was in the middle of putting that duplicitous Lothario in his place. You should not hold back in your upcoming conversation with him.”

Enid shook her head. “No. Wednesday. I want to talk about this.” Enid pulled the paper out of her pocket and shoved it into Wednesday’s hands. Surprisingly, Wednesday didn’t seem concerned at all that Enid had found the paper. She simply glanced down at the page, and then her eyes flicked back up to Enid, as if to ask her to get to the point.

Enid was happy to keep going. 

“You went through all my stuff, made a mess of my room, all to look for my secrets? Wednesday - I don’t have any secrets like that! I put everything that happens to me on a public blog. If something happens to me personally, I talk about it with my friends! If you wanted to know something about me, literally all you had to do was ask. What you did was a total invasion of my privacy!”

Enid was breathing heavy by the end of her tirade, but Wednesday remained frustratingly stoic. It wasn’t until Enid had calmed down a bit that she realized Wednesday had tilted her head a little, almost as if she was confused.

“Secrets are things people try to hide.” Wednesday finally said, matter-of-factly. “Would you reveal the innermost corners of your life to me simply because I asked?” 

Enid answered instinctively, only realizing as she was speaking them just how true the words were. “Yes! Wednesday, I would love to share things with you about my life! It’s what friends do! I just…had no idea that you cared.”

Wednesday and Enid both froze. Staring into Wednesday’s eyes, Enid was surprised to see that Wednesday was genuinely taken aback by what she said. It made Enid’s heart flutter.

Did Wednesday care? Would she want to know things about Enid’s life? Or was this all just in service of whatever weird life-saving mission Wednesday seemed to be on? 

Wednesday took a breath, finally breaking the silence that had blanketed them both. 

“You think I don’t care.” Wednesday said it slowly, like she was piecing something together. 

Enid had to correct that thought quickly. “No! No, I know you care in your own Wednesday-way. Really. But you’ve been pulling away recently, and - I don’t know. It feels like you’ve just been pushing me away since the beginning of the year, and you’re spending more time with Agnes…I just didn’t know you’d be interested in like, normal friend stuff. Like talking about boy troubles or friend drama.”

Wednesday made a face that Enid clearly understood as ‘unadulterated disgust’ before she resumed her normal stony facade. 

“I do not think ‘boy troubles’ are the secrets Rotwood had in mind.”

Oh, right - that reminded Enid of another one of her questions. 

“Who the hell is Rosaline Rotwood?”

Enid would never hear the answer to that question. 

The moment Wednesday opened her mouth to speak, a large CRACK echoed across the courtyard, drawing all eyes to the sky. In a moment of devastating déjà vu from earlier that year, Enid saw a gargoyle perched on the edge of the campus roof come tumbling down - only this one was heading directly for Wednesday’s head.

“Watch out!” 

Enid dove on instinct. Wrapping her hands around Wednesday’s shoulders, Enid pushed as hard as she could to get Wednesday out of the way of the falling stone. 

Enid’s momentum did not quite get herself out of the way in time.

The last thing Enid saw was Wednesday’s eyes go wide, as one of her hands reached out in a desperate attempt to pull Enid back with her.

Enid’s body was crushed so quickly, she didn’t have time to feel the impact. The last thing she felt was Wednesday’s hand on hers.

5.

Enid woke up to hands shaking her shoulder. 

“Woah!” Enid’s claws extended as her body reacted to the unexpected presence of someone waking her up. It took her eyes a few extra seconds to recognize Wednesday as the person who was shaking her awake. She sheathed her claws immediately once she realized what was happening, and sat up quickly to meet Wednesday’s eyes. They looked very intense.

“Wednesday? What are you doing?” 

What Enid really wanted to ask was: Wednesday, why are you initiating physical contact? Is the world ending? But her first question was a good enough start. Especially because Enid’s brain stopped being able to form words once she sat up. The second Enid was upright, she had expected Wednesday to pull away to put space between them, as per usual. But Wednesday didn’t, and now their faces were really close together. 

That’s new.

Wednesday spoke with a hint of frustration, keeping intense eye contact with Enid the entire time. “Why do you insist on saving my life? Do you think so little of yourself that your first instinct is to fly towards danger the moment it presents itself?”

Woah. What the hell was this?

“What are you talking about?” Enid stood up to try and gain some kind of upper hand in this unexpectedly harsh conversation - or maybe to just clear her head. Wednesday was angrily accusing her of…saving her life?

But Wednesday did not back down. She continued to glare through Enid, crushing her hands into fists at her sides as she spoke. “If death has finally come for me, who are you to put yourself in my place? Why would you push me out of the way?” 

“Do you -” Enid’s head was spinning, trying to keep up with what Wednesday was saying. “Do you mean when I stopped Tyler from killing you last year?”

Wednesday didn’t respond right away. She seemed to be searching Enid’s eyes for an answer to her question, and Enid was inclined to let her. It’s not like she had a more coherent thought to give at the moment. 

After a few seconds of silence, Wednesday took a small step backwards. 

“No. Forget it.” Wednesday broke eye contact with Enid for the first time since she woke up. She then took an uncharacteristic deep breath before continuing. Only this time, her voice came out quiet. “I have a favor to ask of you.”

All of the heightened emotions that had been bubbling up inside Enid instantly simmered out. Despite the fact Enid desperately did not want to drop their previous conversation topic - because seriously, what on earth was Wednesday trying to imply just now - Enid wouldn’t dare push. She had never seen Wednesday look so rattled before. So she locked her million follow-up comments away, and responded in a similar tone and volume to Wednesday.

“Sure, anything. As long as it’s not another half-baked Hyde plan.”

“The plan wasn’t half-baked.” Wednesday snapped back, her eyes once again meeting Enid’s with a fury. Enid cracked a small smile. There’s the Wednesday she knows. 

“Well it certainly wasn’t a full cookie, either.”

Wednesday tilted her head, and Enid thought that she caught a hint of a smirk on Wednesday’s face. 

“Never compare my battle plans to a dessert again. Or I’ll tell Lurch to replace your secret snack stash with his beetle-crunch biscuits.”

Enid laughed. “Jokes on you - I actually love Lurch’s baking! He made the best fireside snacks on the camping trip.” Then Enid’s brow furrowed. “Wait. How do you know about my snack stash?”

Wednesday rolled her eyes. “As if your midnight snacking habits are anything but maddeningly loud against the comfort of a dead quiet night. Now -” Wednesday cut off the indignant comment rising in Enid’s throat with a wave of her hand. “- may I ask for my favor?”

Enid nodded, relieved that Wednesday was acting more like herself.

“I need you to share your secrets with me.”

Enid will admit, that was not what she expected. 

“Um…what?” 

There had to be a reason for this. Enid couldn’t remember the last time Wednesday had ever asked Enid to talk about herself - she mostly just put up with it when Enid would insist on sharing. Wednesday also said ‘need’ instead of ‘want’. Was this some weird prank? Part of a ritual spell that Enid was now an unwilling participant of? Why would Wednesday ‘need’ Enid to share her secrets? Was this a test of some kind?

Wednesday looked Enid up and down. “I was under the impression that if I asked for you to tell me your secrets, that you would. As a…friend.”

“Of course I would.” Enid responded quickly. She didn’t realize just how true the words were until she said them out loud. “I just didn’t realize you cared.”

Wednesday didn’t say anything, but her eyes fell a bit at Enid’s words. So Enid hurriedly tried to cover her own tracks. 

“No - no I know you care. It’s just like…”

“In my own Wednesday-way?” 

Enid flashed a huge smile at her friend. “Exactly. But this is great!” Enid squealed a little bit and grabbed Wednesday’s hands in hers. “I was going to hang out with the pack today, but this is so much better!”

Enid looked over at Thing, who had just crawled out of his trunk.

“Thing! Will you grab our coffee orders from the courtyard? Wednesday and I are going to have an honest-to-god friend hangout!”

Thing looked between the two of them, trying to gauge if Enid was kidding. When Wednesday didn’t discredit the idea, Thing gave a small salute before jumping down on the floor.

‘It’s good that you guys are doing this. I’ll be right back.’ He then turned to Wednesday and signed, ‘You should tell her.’

“Goodbye, Thing.” Wednesday growled between grit teeth. He dutifully scurried out of their room, but Enid caught his last message. It was too cryptic to resist.

“What did he mean by that?” Enid asked, rifling through her desk for some nail polish.

“Nothing.” Wednesday said sharply. 

Well, that was way too defensive to be ‘nothing’.

“Hm.” Enid hummed in response, biding her time before exploring that question again. 

She then found what she was looking for. “Ta-da!” She yelled triumphantly, holding out her silver and black nail polishes.

Enid walked over to Wednesday’s side of the room and sat on her bed, motioning for Wednesday to join her. But Wednesday just stood rooted to the ground in the center of the room.

“What are you doing?” Wednesday asked.

Enid smirked. “You need a touch-up on your black polish, and I want to go silver before the full moon this week. Then we can properly gossip about secrets!” She patted Wednesday’s bed again. “Regretting asking me to open up yet?”

“You have no idea.”

With that sentiment, Wednesday slowly forced her muscles to walk over next to Enid, and very woodenly sat down. Her back was as stiff as a board, and it made Enid giggle.

“I’m not poisonous, Wednesday. Give me your hand.” 

When Wednesday didn’t move right away, Enid sighed and held out her hand expectantly. “I’ll tell you whatever secret you want to know as I paint your nails. Come on.”

With a herculean effort, Wednesday relinquished her hand into Enid’s. The contact made Enid’s heart do back-flips.

“Thank you.” 

Getting to work with her hands, Enid found it helpful to look anywhere but Wednesday’s eyes as she talked. “So, if you want secrets, I’ve got a pretty good place to start.”

Wednesday said nothing. She was sitting so still, and her hand was so cold, Enid would have been sure she was a corpse in rigor mortis if she didn’t hear the slow beating of Wednesday’s heart. Enid let the rhythmic thumping calm her nerves as she continued.

“I had actually wanted to practice what to say to you, because it’s kind of a big deal, and I didn’t want to ramble. But, well…I’m an alpha wolf.” Enid cringed a little, not daring to look at Wednesday’s face. Her hands had stilled, opting instead to grip Wednesday’s palm with more force than was probably necessary.

Wednesday’s voice was calm and steady. “Enid, keep going.”

Enid nodded instinctively. “Yeah, okay. It means that I’m really dangerous to be around right now. Basically one wrong negative emotion could make me wolf out in the middle of the day. So I’ll have to move into the lupin cages overnight until I’ve got it under control.”

Enid looked up to Wednesday for a reaction, but she was just staring at Enid’s face. She didn’t know what she expected. She went back to touching up Wednesday's nail polish. 

“And, if a young Alpha wolfs out on a full moon, there's a high chance that I could never change back. Like ever. And if that isn't enough, I'll be hunted by other werewolves. Capri said I didn't have to face this Alpha business on my own. That my strength is in my pack. But the truth is…”

Enid finished applying the polish to Wednesday’s right hand, but didn’t let it go just yet.

“...you are my pack, Wednesday.”

Enid watched as Wednesday’s eyes went wide. A light seemed to go off in her head as she responded carefully. “You think of me as your pack.”

“Um, yeah. I - I hope that’s okay? I just thought that even though things had been weird this year, that you’re still my best friend. I can’t really picture navigating this with anyone else but you.”

“Enid.” Wednesday said, furrowing her brow a bit. “If we are a pack -”

Enid’s heart flew as Wednesday confirmed that they were, in fact, a pack.

“- does that mean you would try to save my life, even if it meant putting yourself in danger?”

Enid tilted her head slightly. “Of course. But you would do the same for me, right? I mean, you tried to get me to leave town when Tyler was after us, almost as if you were going to take him on yourself. To protect me, right? Even though I really don’t need it.” Enid added that last bit with a lighter tone, trying to cover up how scared she was about the whole ‘alpha’ thing. 

Wednesday didn’t seem to buy it, and she chose to hone in on Enid’s fear.

“Enid. Of course I would do the same for you. If you get stuck in your alpha form, rest assured I will hunt you down myself. I have been fighting all year -”

Wednesday cut herself off, on the brink of saying something important - Enid was sure of it. She wanted to push. There was something Wednesday had been keeping from her all year, and Enid had a gut feeling that this was it. She reached forward to put her hands on Wednesday’s shoulders. 

“Fighting all year for what? To get your psychic ability back? What haven’t you been telling me? Please.” Enid didn’t mean for it to come off so desperate, but it was too late to take back now. 

Wednesday glared at Enid’s hands until she let go. Once Enid had sat back on her heels, still fidgeting like she wanted to reach out again, Wednesday spoke.

“I had a vision of your impending death at the beginning of the semester. It was going to be my fault you died. My attempts to regain my psychic ability have been in service of stopping that eventuality.”

“What?” 

Enid wanted to scream. She wanted to yell at the top of her lungs, how could you not tell me? She wanted to shake Wednesday by those cold shoulders of hers and demand to know why she thought Enid couldn’t handle the truth.

But she didn’t. Because, for the first time since Enid had known her, Wednesday finally had the decency to look guilty. 

Enid settled on what to say once it was clear Wednesday wasn’t going to elaborate. “I don’t understand. You’ve been pushing me away all year - there were points when I thought you didn’t even want to be my friend anymore. Why wouldn’t you tell me? Why not let me help?”

When Wednesday finally spoke, her uncharacteristically soft tone almost made Enid cry. 

“I regret ever underestimating you.” 

Enid’s breath hitched. 

“Others,” Wednesday continued, her tone becoming more firm as she spoke, “like Bruno, may mistake your kindness for weakness. But it’s not. I can see just how strong you are.”

Enid was going to pass out. Wednesday had just paid her several compliments in a row, all completely sincere. She needed to focus on something else. Anything else. 

Trying desperately to catch her breath, Enid finally stuttered out, “Um - what did you say about Bruno?”

Wednesday tilted her head. 

“In an act of time-honored, misogynistic deception, Bruno has a girlfriend back in the Philippines.”

“WHAT?” Enid jumped off of Wednesday’s bed, her entire body suddenly on fire. Her mind was racing with all the phone calls Bruno made to his ‘mom’. How he always left the room, or kept his back to her. How he wouldn’t let Enid answer his phone when it rang. 

It made too much sense.

“How do you know? When did you know?” Enid shouted. Distantly, Enid knew she was sending her anger in the wrong direction. Yelling at Wednesday was not what she really wanted to be doing, but at that moment, she was the only one here.

“I found out yesterday. I speak Tagalog and heard him talking with her in the courtyard.” Wednesday stood up next to Enid, holding her freshly painted nails away from her body while the polish dried. 

The courtyard.

Enid’s head whipped to their door, and before she could think better of it, stormed out. 

“Careful.” Wednesday said, following Enid out of their room. Enid didn’t turn around to check, but she thought she heard Wednesday grab her crossbow before leaving. 

Enid wasn’t going to let Wednesday hurt Bruno, but she didn’t mind a show of support. 

Rushing into the courtyard, Enid’s eyes zeroed in on Bruno, who was talking with some of the pack at a nearby table. She beelined directly towards him before colliding face-first into an invisible figure.

THUMP.

“Watch where you’re going, pup!” Agnes materialized in front of Enid, holding her jaw where Enid had run into it.

“Out of my way, psycho.” Enid growled, pushing Agnes to the side. 

“I’m not here to talk to you, Malibu Barbie.” Agnes looked past her and towards Wednesday. Enid then clocked Thing running up right behind Agnes.

 “Pugsley’s zombie is here.” Agnes reported.  “I thought you’d want to know.”

‘He’s carrying a crossbow - the tips of the bolts looked heavy.’ Thing signed from behind Agnes, shaking a little as he did so. 

Wednesday gripped Enid’s arm, causing her to stop in her tirade.

“Enid, get inside. He’s here to kill you.”

The concern in Wednesday’s voice made Enid stop. She looked down at the point where Wednesday was holding her arm, and she could just barely make out that Wednesday was shaking. Enid turned away from Bruno to look into Wednesday’s eyes.

At that moment, Enid made a choice. 

“Okay. Then we should all get inside, come on.” Enid placed Thing on her shoulder, and took Wednesday’s hand in hers. Pulling Wednesday behind her, Enid backtracked to Ophelia Hall, looking for threats the whole time. The pint-sized Vanisher that insisted on following them didn’t count as a threat - yet.

Leading the group inside the building, Enid checked for movement on the stairs before hurrying up, trying to move as quickly and quietly as possible. 

It did not work.

Suddenly, Wednesday was firing her crossbow at a classroom door that had flung open on the floor below. The bolt embedded itself down to the fletching mere inches from the zombie’s rotting flesh. 

The dead man smiled up at them. “Don’t worry, Wednesday. Tyler wanted the honors of killing you himself. This is just…contingency.”

Then several things happened very quickly.

1. The zombie held up a crossbow, with a heavy bolt already loaded into it.
2. Enid caught the smell from her position on the stairs - the bolt’s tip was silver.
3. Wednesday tried to jump between Enid and the zombie.
4. Enid’s reflexes were faster, and her base instincts would never let Wednesday die when she could stop it.
5. With a burst of wolf strength, Enid shoved Wednesday into Agnes’ arms. The force of her shove sent the two of them backwards into the banister, and sent Thing flying off her shoulder.
6. Enid felt her muscles tearing and her teeth elongating. With her claws extended, she leapt at the zombie below them, roaring as her transformation finished mid-air.
7. The zombie released the bolt before she reached him.

Enid’s entire body was suddenly filled with unyielding fire. The silver punctured her skin, ripped through her ribcage and landed inside one of her lungs. With a primal scream, Enid used the rest of her momentum to sink her claws through the zombie’s chest, making him stagger on his dead legs. When Enid landed with a large THUMP on the floor, she could barely make out the sound of retreating footsteps. 

Good. He was leaving.

Enid’s giant wolf paws slid against the smooth floors of Ophelia Hall, trying to reach for…something. It wasn’t until Wednesday came into her field of vision that Enid realized what exactly she was reaching for.

“Agnes! Thing!” Wednesday shouted. “Follow him!” 

Enid could hear the shuffling of feet and a frantically running hand scurrying behind her, but she didn’t pay them much mind. At that particular moment, she was trying to focus on the sound of Wednesday’s heartbeat. It was the fastest Enid had ever heard it.

“You just couldn’t help yourself, could you?” Wednesday whispered into Enid’s ear. 

Enid’s eyelids were getting heavy. Her muscles were giving out, and her breaths were no longer answering her brain’s call for them to come. The most she could do was nuzzle her nose against Wednesday’s hand. Enid could faintly feel some still-wet nail polish staining her fur. 

“Because we’re a pack, right?” Wednesday asked. 

Enid tried to let out a whine, but it just triggered a coughing fit as blood pushed its way out of her mouth.

“Next time,” Wednesday said, “I’m going to save you.”

Enid died wondering what Wednesday meant by that.

6. 

Enid woke up to the sound of Wednesday going through her stuff.

“Um, Wednesday?” Enid said, rubbing her bleary eyes in an attempt to make sense of what she was seeing. “What are you looking for?”

“These.” Wednesday answered, confidently holding up two bottles of Enid’s nail polish: black and silver. Wednesday spoke as if that cleared everything up, but Enid was still very lost. 

“Okay. What do you need those for? You know you can ask me for stuff instead of stealing it while I’m asleep.” As she talked, Enid got out of bed, stretching her arms to try and wake up her muscles. 

Wednesday scoffed. “I wasn’t stealing them. They’re clearly for us to use while we talk.”

Enid must not have heard that correctly.

“You want to use my nail polish? To actually paint our nails with? While we…talk?”

Wednesday sat down on her own bed, indicating with her head that she wanted Enid to sit down next to her. When Enid didn’t move, Wednesday rolled her eyes.

“Yes, Enid. That’s what I said. Come sit down.”

Enid still didn’t move. Something was really wrong with Wednesday. Was this a trap? A prank? Had Wednesday been body-snatched or possessed? Enid immediately started visually searching for any sort of hidden weapons or traps around Wednesday’s bed. Outside of the ones that are always there, of course.

But Enid didn’t see anything, and figured it might not hurt to just ask.

“Are you feeling alright?”

Wednesday huffed shallowly. “I am fine. I simply thought it was time that you and I talked.”

“Talked about what?” Enid asked, carefully stepping onto Wednesday’s side of the room.

“About you.” Wednesday made eye contact with Enid, and all of her worries about possession or body-snatching went right out the window. This was unequivocally Wednesday Addams, and she wanted to talk to Enid like they were friends.

Enid almost passed out.

“Um, yeah. Okay. Sounds good. I have a few things to catch you up on anyway.”

Enid sat down next to Wednesday and picked up the black nail polish. Whatever other plans she had for that day were a distant memory. At that moment, there was no other place Enid wanted to be.

“So, have you ever heard of alpha wolves?”

***

“Stop! You’re going to make me mess up Thing’s polish!” Enid fought through her own laughter to get the words out, her hands shaking with elation as she held the silver nail polish in her hands.

“I cannot possibly understand what you find so funny.” 

Wednesday was sitting cross-legged on her bed, glaring at Enid as she lost control of her bodily functions during her laughing fit. Enid fought for her breath before responding.

“Are you kidding? No, wait, of course you’re not, I know better than that. But come on! You burned down a summer camp? For making you play Pocahontas in a musical? Please tell me there's video footage of you singing a song out there somewhere.”

Wednesday didn’t dignify that question with a response, but Thing happily jumped in.

‘Lurch and I stole all the video copies of the show from the camp directors a few days later. Her parents keep them hidden so Wednesday can’t destroy them.’ 

Enid started laughing again, but held Thing still against the bed.

“Careful! You’re going to smudge.”

“Yes, Thing.” Wednesday added. “It would be wise to stop talking.”

Enid snorted as Thing instantly froze under Wednesday’s icy glare.

“It’s too late, Wednesday. Now that I know there's actual, real-life blackmail footage of you out there, I’m not stopping until I find it! I bet I could ask your mom to get me a copy.”

Enid went to finish applying Thing’s nail polish. 

“But I’d still be willing to bet it’s not as bad as my third grade talent show. Want to guess what song I danced to?” Enid looked up at Wednesday, only to see that her friend was staring off into the distance. Enid paused the makeover. 

“Is everything alright?” Enid asked.

She and Wednesday had been talking non-stop for the past few hours. Wednesday had consistently prompted her for stories about her life, about San Francisco, about her friends, even about her favorite music. Luckily, Enid had gotten Wednesday to share a few things right back. Thing was a great asset in her interrogation of Wednesday’s life - he would add details to stories, or straight-up ragebait Wednesday into telling the story herself if Thing started telling it incorrectly. 

But then it hit her: neither of them had brought up the other’s parents. 

Enid knew Wednesday was having problems with her mom, and she mentally kicked herself for bringing it up so casually. They were getting along so well.

Enid brought a hand up to Wednesday’s shoulder. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up your mom like that.”

Wednesday flinched at the unexpected contact, but didn’t pull away. She just kept staring through their bedroom window, looking like she was mentally wrestling through something. When she finally spoke, she didn’t look at Enid.

“You don't need to apologize. I simply realized that you’ll soon forget all the things you’ve learned about me today, blackmail videos included.” Enid wanted to ask what the hell that meant, but Wednesday kept going. “Normally, that would be a recipe for the ideal personal conversation.”

Enid glanced down at Thing, hoping he might be able to shed some light on what Wednesday was talking about, but he just shrugged unhelpfully. So Enid looked back up at Wednesday.

“Did I - did I push you too much today? I’m sorry if the personal stories got out of hand.” 

Enid looked down at her freshly-painted nails. Wednesday had done a beautiful job with the silver polish, and it made for a good distraction now that Enid couldn’t look her in the face.

“No, you didn’t push.” That was all Wednesday said before she stood up and walked out onto their balcony.

Thing shrugged again when Enid looked down. So, hardening her resolve, Enid followed right after her. 

Stepping onto the balcony together reminded Enid of their first night as roommates. They had opened up to each other that night, with Enid talking about her problems wolfing out, and Wednesday telling her story of losing Nero. The two of them had come a long way since then.

But it wasn’t far enough.

Enid slid next to Wednesday, looking out over Nevermore with her.

“Please? Tell me what's wrong.” Enid nudged Wednesday with her shoulder, trying to make her request seem as casual as possible.

Wednesday just sighed.

“I keep looking out the window, expecting a Hyde to barge in, or a bomb to go off, or a zombie to come lumbering through our door. It is exhausting.”

Enid shot her a quizzical look.

“Yeah, no kidding. Why are you worst-case scenario-ing?”

Before Wednesday could answer, Enid felt the ground begin to shake. Within a second, Enid’s San Francisco instincts took over. She pulled Wednesday away from the balcony’s ledge, putting herself between Wednesday and the giant glass window that could shatter at any moment. Enid then put her hands over Wednesday's head, hoping to block any falling debris that might be shaken loose.

Earthquakes are nothing to mess around with.

Enid was using her wolf-strength to keep Wednesday close to her body, as she was expecting her friend to try and pull away from the contact. But to her shock, Wednesday didn’t struggle. She held on to Enid just as tightly. 

The earthquake ended after a few seconds. 

Enid reluctantly pulled her head away from Wednesday, looking down at her face while keeping her hands firmly planted on her shoulders. “Are you alright?” 

Enid didn’t see any obvious injuries, but she had to ask. Oddly, Wednesday seemed surprised that everything was okay.

“Yes.” She answered, looking curiously up at Enid. “Are you?”

Enid looked down at herself and nodded.

“Yeah. Luckily that wasn’t the worst quake I’ve ever -”

Enid was cut off by the balcony crumbling under their feet. 

On their free fall down to the ground, Enid had just enough time to wolf out before they landed hard. Because Enid’s hands were already on Wednesday’s shoulders when they began to fall, it was easy to maneuver her to land on top of Enid’s stomach, cushioning her from their crash-landing. 

Because Enid had wolfed out, she almost survived the fall. 

It was the debris that killed her.

The second Enid confirmed that Wednesday was alive, she stood up on shaky legs, trying to look Wednesday up and down. But Wednesday apparently had things to say first.

“Enid, you could have gotten hurt. Are you okay?”

Enid caught the falling piece of stone in her periphery, and had just enough time to jump over Wednesday and block the impact before everything went dark.

7.

Enid woke up to the sound of Wednesday muttering to herself while going through her stuff.

“Damn werewolf and her damn pack-mentalities. Dirty trick.”

“Um, Wednesday?” Enid said, rubbing her bleary eyes in an attempt to make sense of what she was seeing. “What are you doing?”

“You need better self-preservation skills. Pack or not.” Wednesday snapped. 

“Excuse me?” Enid asked, climbing out of bed to see what Wednesday was up to. Her eyes narrowed with confusion when she saw Wednesday clutching two bottles of her nail polish: the black and silver.

“It’s nothing.” Wednesday said suddenly, walking over to her side of the room. She sat down on her bed and motioned for Enid to join. “We need to talk, come sit down.”

“Um.” Enid could not get her head to wrap around what was happening. Did Wednesday really want to do each other’s nails? She stayed rooted in place. “Talk about what?”

“Something of substance. Deep-seeded secrets. I believe we should talk about our families.”

Wednesday was staring right into Enid’s soul. There was no doubt in Enid’s mind that Wednesday Addams - the real, actual Wednesday Addams - wanted to talk to her like they were friends. It was maddeningly confusing. 

It was also a little intimidating.

Why did Wednesday want to know about her family? Was this another attempt to get her to leave campus or something? Enid started shifting from foot to foot, suddenly very unsure of what to do.

Wednesday was clearly getting impatient.

“I will start with your silver polish if you sit down.” 

This was really happening. It was a dream…or a nightmare. But if Wednesday was extending an olive branch, there was really only one answer Enid was capable of giving.

“Okay.”

***

Wednesday and Enid sat in silence together. 

Thing had left hours ago, opting to give them some privacy after Wednesday unsubtly threatened him into leaving them alone. Enid was secretly grateful for their seclusion, since talking about her family or her alpha status was hard enough without an audience. 

But she hadn’t expected Wednesday to be such an active listener. 

She was continuously asking Enid for stories, and to talk about how she felt, all while seeming genuinely interested in what Enid had to say. That behavior would be surprising enough, but when Wednesday actually answered Enid’s requests for similar stories, Enid could have passed out. Wednesday shared anecdotes about her parents, her uncle, her brother, and dozens of cousins that Enid was having a hard time keeping track of. But knowing too much about Wednesday Addams was the perfect problem to have.

“My offer stands, by the way.” Wednesday finally broke the silence they had been sitting in for a few minutes. “I will enthusiastically physically harm any of your family members at your request. Especially your mother. It could never be traced back to you.”

Enid nodded. Wednesday had made this offer several times throughout their conversation, but she had turned her down each time. If someone was going to deal with Enid’s mother, it was going to be her. But Wednesday was nice to offer.

“I know. Maybe one day.” Enid smiled at Wednesday, who gave her a very serious nod in return. “My advice still stands, too. Your darkness isn’t too much for anyone to grasp, Wednesday. Especially not your mother. I don’t think you can disappoint her, really. So you should stop pushing her away and let her in. I know I’ve appreciated the gesture so far.”

Enid nudged Wednesday with her shoulder to show that she meant what she said. Wednesday wasn’t looking directly at her, but she did give a small nod. 

Enid didn’t want this moment to end. She wanted to stay here, and talk with Wednesday for as long as she’d allow it. There were almost endless questions she wanted to ask about Wednesday’s life, her family, hell - even her novel. But Enid knew Capri would come looking for her soon.

She let out a small sigh. 

“I should probably head down to the lupin cages. Capri’s going to track me down soon if I don’t go on my own.” Enid reluctantly stood up, and had to stop herself from showing surprise when Wednesday stood up with her.

“I’ll accompany you.” She said, looking directly in Enid’s eyes as she spoke. “We are a pack, after all. You should not do this alone.”

Enid is not sure what came over her. Maybe it was the amount of sharing they had both just done, or hearing from Wednesday’s mouth that they were a pack. Whatever the instinct was, Enid let it take over.

She hugged Wednesday as hard as she could.

Enid wasn’t sure how she managed to keep her legs from collapsing when Wednesday hugged her back. Holding her close, Enid felt beyond a shadow of a doubt that she made the right choice in choosing her pack. 

After a few moments of hugging her tight, Enid pulled back, wiping a tear away from her eye as she did so.

“Thank you, Wednesday.”

“Thank you for sharing. I believe I’ve learned a lot about you today.” Wednesday then walked past Enid, holding the door open for her. 

“Now I just have to keep you alive until dawn.”

Enid stopped in her tracks. “What do you mean by that? Like keep me from wolfing out?”

“Sure.” Wednesday said, gesturing for Enid to follow. 

Enid had follow-up questions, but also knew Capri would yell at her if she was late to the cages. So she followed Wednesday outside. The two of them fell into easy conversation as they walked side by side. Enid was pestering Wednesday to reveal what dress she was wearing to the upcoming gala, while Wednesday was lying to her face by saying she didn’t have anything to wear. 

Enid was so caught up in their conversation, she didn’t notice the spike trap someone dug outside the cages.

42.

Enid woke up to Wednesday’s voice right next to her ear.

“What are you hiding from me?”

“Woah!” Enid’s claws extended as her body reacted to the unexpected presence of another human standing so close to her. It took her eyes a few extra seconds to recognize Wednesday as the person who was standing creepily over her bed. She then also noticed that Wednesday had effortlessly dodged Enid’s hand, like her swipe didn’t even happen.

“Wednesday? What are you doing?”

Wednesday was glaring at Enid with a fire she had never seen before. She couldn’t pinpoint the emotion on her friend’s face - but whatever it was, Wednesday was feeling a lot of it.

“What do I not yet know about you? What secrets are you keeping from me? Why must you condemn me to being stuck here?”

Woah. What the hell?

Enid jumped out of her bed, staring Wednesday down. It was way too early for this level of emotion. If Wednesday was mad at her, the least she could do was explain why.

“What are you talking about?” Enid shouted, crossing her arms to match Wednesday’s stance. Wednesday had no trouble matching Enid’s energy.

“I know that you are an alpha wolf. I know that you are afraid that means you will end up alone, despite the fact that I will obviously never let that happen.” 

Enid couldn’t help it, she gasped at Wednesday’s words. How did she know that? 

But Wednesday was on a roll. 

“I know that you danced to the song What Makes You Beautiful for your third grade talent show. I know that you secretly hate your family’s yearly trips to Disneyland because you get motion sick on all the roller coasters your brothers insist on riding. I know that you feel isolated from your pack because they rejected you before you could wolf out, and now they might hunt you down if you get stuck as an alpha. I know that your father is the only one in your family who buys you presents you actually like at Christmas. I know you don’t think you can ever forgive your mother, but I also know you’ll still try. I know you are unsure of your feelings for Bruno, and are confused why you are uncomfortable sharing your alpha secret with him. But it makes sense, considering you were probably just picking up on the fact that he has a girlfriend in the Philippines. You do not trust your instincts enough.”

Enid gasped again, physically taking a step away from Wednesday. Her world was spinning on its axis, and she no longer knew which way was up. The back of her knees hit the bed, and Enid had to sit down. It was too much.

But Wednesday would not relent.

“I know you are hoping to receive Blackpink concert tickets for your upcoming birthday. I know that you are still ashamed of not qualifying for the academic enrichment program in your middle school, yet you do not give yourself credit for your advanced placements in all of your dance classes. I know you are afraid of the dark, despite being able to see at night with your werewolf senses. I know that you have been secretly covering up the scars from the Hyde fight last year, even though they are marks you earned honorably by saving my life. I know that you have the quietest strength of anyone I have ever met, and that I am in awe of the power that you wield as both an alpha wolf, and as a person. You stick your tongue out a little bit when you paint your nails, you scratch your ears when you’re frustrated, and you never sleep on your back.”

Wednesday was stepping forward while she spoke, and was crowding Enid’s personal space by the time she took a breath. Enid tried to focus on what Wednesday was saying, but every part of her was about to combust. This was…

Enid didn’t know what this was. It was the most she’s ever been seen by another person. It was the most overwhelming, completely intoxicating, massively terrifying feeling. Enid knew she thought of Wednesday as her pack - despite everything that they had gone through this semester - but now it was like Wednesday had taken their relationship to the next level, and Enid was the one playing catch-up. 

Wednesday leaned down to get to Enid’s eye level. It was odd, seeing Wednesday have a height advantage as she talked. It made Enid feel like caught prey. 

Not necessarily in a bad way.

When Wednesday started talking again, Enid became very aware of how close their faces were now, and how low Wednesday’s voice had gotten.

“You have become the first thing I think of in the morning, and the last thing I think of when the day ends. You are pulling on the edges of my sanity, without trying at all. You don’t even remember all of the thousands of ways you have engraved yourself upon my very life, nor will you remember all of the thousands of ways I have attempted to do the same to you. I refuse to let you die because of me, and yet I am never strong enough to save you. I am trapped.”

Enid stopped breathing.

Time seemed to slow as Wednesday finished her speech. Enid watched as Wednesday’s breaths came heavy and labored, and she could hear her heart beating faster than she’s ever heard it before. And then Wednesday blinked, and Enid could have sworn she was blinking away a tear.

Then Enid did something crazy.

In a moment of overwhelming emotion, which was exacerbated by her brain being offline from the information overload, Enid leaned forward and grabbed Wednesday’s shirt collar. There was only half a second for Enid to make eye contact with Wednesday before she closed the small gap between them.

Kissing Wednesday Addams was the most life-changing thing Enid had ever done. It gave her unimaginable clarity to every part of her life all at once: Why she selected Wednesday as her pack above anyone else. Why she couldn’t imagine her life without Wednesday in it. Why saving Wednesday’s life was what caused her to wolf out for the first time. Why she never felt completely comfortable and open with Bruno. Why she was unbearably jealous of Wednesday spending time with Agnes. 

It was all because of this.

Enid wanted to keep kissing Wednesday for the rest of the day - for the rest of time - as every instinct she had told her this was right. But after a few seconds, Enid realized with horror that Wednesday had not leaned into it. She just stayed frozen in place, eyes wide open.

Enid had misread things.

Her heart sank as she released Wednesday’s shirt, pulling back like she’d been struck by lightning. All the while, Wednesday remained unmoving.

“I’m so sorry, I don’t know why I did that.” Enid was on the verge of hyperventilating. She stood up quickly, walking past Wednesday without looking directly at her. The excess energy in her body forced her to start pacing, and Enid was not strong enough to look at Wednesday’s face as her feet took her around the room.

“I’m really, really sorry. Maybe I should just go. I can give you some space if you need to -”

There was suddenly a cold hand on her wrist, and Enid stopped moving. She still couldn’t bring herself to look at Wednesday, and Enid resigned herself to staring at her feet for the rest of her life.

Wednesday spoke calmly, and it made Enid feel even more uncomfortable to hear her so put-together. As if the kiss didn’t even affect her, when it was pulling Enid apart at the seams.

“Is that what you’ve been hiding from me? Have you…this whole time?” 

Enid shrugged, still looking at her feet. “I don’t think I realized it until I actually…well.” There was a weak attempt to gesture between the two of them before her arm went limp against her side. Enid continued. “But yeah, I think so. For a while, at least.”

Enid heard Wednesday’s breath hitch. The hand wrapped around her wrist tightened, and Enid thought about pulling away. It felt cruel that Wednesday would finally start reaching out on the same day Enid crossed her boundaries in the worst way. Enid almost couldn’t stand it. She flinched when she felt Wednesday’s other hand push under her chin, forcing her to look up. 

When Enid looked into Wednesday’s eyes, she could have melted right then and there. 

Wednesday looked happy.

“This must be it.” She said, gripping Enid’s hand with a fervor. “Your innermost secret. Enid, I can save your life now. We just have to make it until dawn.”

Enid’s world was collapsing around her. Wednesday had not reciprocated, and she was now obsessing over uncovering Enid’s innermost feelings like she was just some mystery to solve. 

But, maybe Enid preferred this type of confusing rejection rather than a cold, harsh one. Because honestly, what the hell was she talking about?

“‘Make it until dawn’?” Enid repeated, not sure what else to say after kissing your best friend only for her then to spout nonsense about saving your life.

“Yes.” Wednesday said firmly, both her hands still on Enid. “That’s how I stop the dirty trick. That’s how I save you for good. You just have to live until dawn. Please,” Wednesday brought the hand that was under Enid’s chin up to her cheek, “stay.”

Enid had no idea what to say to that. There were too many questions fighting for attention in her head, and too many emotions fighting to be the first to release her tears. What was Wednesday doing?

“You want me to stay? After…that?”

“Yes.” Wednesday’s answer was quick, and she enunciated it by squeezing Enid’s wrist. “Stay. We can discuss whatever you want while we paint our nails, and once Capri comes to take you from me, I will be with you in the cages all night. I will see this through with you.”

There it was again. That crazy urge to just lean in. Enid pushed it down with every ounce of control she possessed, and simply nodded.

“Yeah, that sounds fine.” Enid sat down on her bed, letting the scope of the morning’s events settle on her like an oppressive weight. Somewhere next to her, Wednesday had found Enid’s nail polish and sat down on the bed. Enid could barely even feel it when Wednesday grabbed her hand and started painting expert-level designs on her nails, while discussing her opinions on…the current Nevermore couples?

The shock of the conversation topic was almost enough to send Enid out of her stupor. 

But in the end, she couldn’t help but fixate on what she had done that morning. How she had messed everything up between the two of them. Wednesday finally wanted to be Enid’s friend, and had openly engaged with her on an emotional level, but Enid had to turn around and push her too far. Again. Enid closed her eyes and silently willed this day to be over quickly.

***

Enid had not expected the universe to take her plea so literally.

When her coughing started, she just assumed it was due to Wednesday’s continued proximity. It had not taken very many threats to make Ms. Capri agree to let Wednesday spend the night in the lupin cages with Enid. In Enid’s opinion, her teacher had given in entirely too quickly, considering all her own warnings about the danger Enid posed to those around her. 

But Wednesday had quite a way with words. And with knives.

So they sat trapped in the cage together, listening to music from Enid’s cell phone. When Wednesday didn’t yell at her to turn off the kpop, Enid knew that she was being pitied. Wednesday had rejected her, and was now trying to make up for it by letting Enid listen to her favorite music without complaint.

It drove Enid insane.

But she wasn’t going to say anything. Wednesday had been an excellent friend all day, and Enid didn’t want to squander whatever progress they were making by continually bringing up the kiss. It had fractured enough of their relationship already.

So she assumed the coughing was her body’s response to suppressing all that emotion. A karmic way of telling her to quit keeping it all bottled up. 

But it didn’t stop. 

The moment Enid doubled over, clutching at her throat, she registered that her lungs had begun to hack up blood. Distantly, she felt Wednesday’s hands on her back, calling out her name. 

Enid couldn’t stop coughing long enough to say anything back to her, but a faint smell in the air was suddenly identifiable: wolfsbane. Somebody was poisoning the air with a toxin specific to werewolves. The only thing Enid could do as her throat closed up and her lungs filled with blood was to reach out for Wednesday.

Her friend had pity on her one last time and grabbed her hand, holding her close as Enid collapsed onto the floor.

“This wasn’t supposed to happen.” Wednesday stated, like it was a fact. “You were supposed to be okay now. I can’t -”

Wednesday cut herself off, and Enid suddenly felt herself being pulled into a hug. 

In reality, it was a very awkward side-hug as Enid felt her bodily functions shut down on the floor of the cage, and not the breath-stealing type of hug they shared the year before. But it was exactly the comfort Enid needed right now. Even if it was out of pity, even if Wednesday only saw them as friends, Enid leaned into it for as long as her body could manage. They were a pack, and being held like this felt right. 

“I’m sorry, Enid. This is all my fault.”

Enid tried to shake her head, but her muscles had begun to spasm with the presence of the poison in her system. Of course this wasn’t her fault. Wednesday needed to know that - Enid had to tell her that it was okay. It was all okay.

“I don’t know how many more times I can watch you die.”

As Enid’s eyes closed, she swore the last thing she felt was a tear falling onto her cheek.

43.

Enid woke up alone.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. Everything was in exactly the same place it always was - which meant there were zero clues as to where her roommate might have gone this early in the morning. 

Enid climbed out of bed just in time to see Thing emerge from his trunk.

“Morning, Thing.” Enid said with a yawn. “Where did Wednesday go? I didn’t hear her come back last night…wait.” Enid’s eyes went wide as she frantically looked down at Thing. “She came home last night, right? I swear if she’s gotten herself into some kind of trouble right after the Hyde debacle I’m going to chain her to the dorm room myself!”

Thing tried to interject, but Enid was on a warpath.

“What if Capri came by for dorm checks while she’s off gallivanting who-knows-where? If I have to miss the gala because of Wednesday, I'll never forgive her.”

Thing continued to sign something in the background, but Enid didn’t catch any words.

“Oh my god, Thing! What if she’s in, like, actual danger? I should get the pack to go looking for her!”

Thing loudly slapped the top of the trunk. ‘ENID!’

She whirled on him. “What?”

‘Calm. Down. I heard Wednesday both get home last night and leave this morning. How heavy of a sleeper are you? Please stop spiraling, I’m sure she’s fine.’

“Oh. That’s good.” Enid sat on the bed, looking over to Thing with apologetic eyes. “I’m sorry for freaking out. I guess she just…didn’t want to see me.”

Thing swayed back and forth a little as he contemplated what to say next. ‘I don’t think that’s it. Maybe she found a new lead for the case? I’ll go track down Agnes and see if she knows anything.’

Enid let out a scoff. “Yeah. I bet the pint-sized psycho knows where Wednesday is, even before her best friend does. Figures.” 

Enid stood up again and started getting ready to go hang out with Bruno and the pack. 

But Thing wouldn’t let her stew in her own anger too long. He crawled over to her feet, tapping on her shoe to get her attention. ‘Wednesday is only acting erratically because of a vision she got earlier this year. I think it…scared her. I’ll see if I can convince her to talk with you about it - I think it’s important that it comes from her.’ 

Enid deflated a little. Of course, Wednesday was hiding something big from her. Enid could feel it all year, but had chosen to ignore it in the hopes that she was wrong. But if Wednesday needed an example for how to share secrets, Enid could reach out first. She had a good idea of where to start.

“If you find her, will you tell her to meet me in the lupin cages? I have something I want to talk with her about.”

‘It’s not a full moon tonight - is everything okay?’

“Yeah, it’s fine. I’ll tell you both when you find her, alright?”

Thing nodded, and Enid gave him a fist bump before he scurried away. 

Alone in the room, Enid gave herself a mini-pep talk in the mirror. She could handle today. She could handle being an alpha. She could handle whatever Wednesday was up to. Everything was going to be just fine. Bracing herself for whatever the day had to offer, Enid left her dorm with an optimistic pep in her step.

She did not see the firebomb in the courtyard coming.

50.

Enid woke up alone.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. The silence made Enid think of all the time she spent living by herself in the room before Wednesday arrived at Nevermore. How lonely that was. How much she hated the quiet.

Shaking the feeling off, Enid got ready to go meet the pack.

***

When Enid was dosed with a lethal amount of sleeping pills later that day, her last thought before drifting off into eternal rest was: I hope Wednesday will be there when I wake up.

59.

Enid woke up alone.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. It was a mess. Her desk drawers had been flung open, with her possessions thrown every which way, and her manuscript had been torn to shreds. Enid saw pieces of it flowing in the air as the breeze from the open window sent them spinning around the room. 

Sitting up in a panic, Enid swiftly followed the trail of destruction out onto their shared balcony. All of Wednesday’s research papers into Hydes, LOIS, and Pugsley’s zombie were scattered around the stone terrace. But the most troubling sight was what was below her, on the hard ground beneath the balcony.

Several stories below her window sat the smashed remains of Wednesday’s typewriter.  

Enid gasped. She started immediately looking for signs of a struggle, or blood, or anything to help this make sense. What the hell was going on?

Luckily, Thing followed her out onto the balcony, also looking shaken.

“Thing! What happened here? Where’s Wednesday?” Enid shouted. Her initial panic was starting to escalate into a full-on freak out.

‘I don’t know! Wednesday started destroying all her stuff this morning, and then said she’d throw me off the balcony next if I tried to wake you up. How are you such a deep sleeper? Did you really not hear her?’

Enid paused.

Wednesday did this? Destroyed her novel, her typewriter, her research…everything? That couldn’t be right. 

“Are you sure it wasn’t like a shapeshifter or something? Wednesday would never do this! Thing, something is really wrong here.”

‘I know! But I don’t think it was a shifter. Nobody else delivers a threat quite so succinctly and devastatingly as she does. But then she left and told me to stay with you.’ Thing’s signing got slower as his emotions started leaking through his movements. ‘What - what do you think we should do?’ 

There was no other answer Enid could give.

“We go and find her! I’ll check the campus first and see if I can get the pack involved in the hunt. She’ll hate it, but they might find her quicker as a group. You should go get Pugsley and see if he knows anything.”

Thing gave a salute, and started to leave before he cautiously turned to face Enid.

‘You might want to consider asking…Agnes. She might know something.’

Enid took a deep, very controlled breath. Thing was right, of course, but Enid didn’t have to like it. 

“Fine.” She said, gritting her teeth. “I’ll track down the mini-Wednesday. Meet me in the courtyard by one o’clock so we can compare notes.”

‘Good luck.’ 

“Right back at you. I’m…really worried, Thing.” Enid bent over to squeeze Thing in her hand.

‘Honestly, me too. But if anyone can get her head screwed back on right, it’s you.’

Enid chuckled. “If only that were true. I’d have made her abandon the Tyler-gambit plan from the start.” A sigh escaped her lips as she thought about how that turned out. “I get the feeling this is all my fault somehow.”

‘Trust me.’ Thing signed. ‘This is not your fault. Wednesday has been dealing with something poorly all semester, and it’s about time she talked with you about it. Everything is going to be okay.’

Enid nodded. “I’ll just have to take your word for that, then. See you soon.”

Thing waved goodbye before scurrying out of their room, with Enid close behind.

***

She found Agnes first. Go figure.

Enid’s first scouting location was the Nightshades library. It made sense at the time, seeing as though Wednesday might have been angry with her ongoing investigative research. But it was completely empty, and based on the dust patterns, none of her friends had been there in a while.

So then Enid thought to walk up the clock tower to get a better view of the school. As she climbed the stairs, Enid mentally fortified herself for seeing the place she’d been kidnapped to a few weeks ago. It had all turned out alright - Wednesday would never let anything bad happen to her, after all - but Enid still hated remembering how close the swords had come to iron maiden-ing her. As she made it to the top floor, Enid was expecting to see a few of those swords still around, or maybe even the chains Agnes had used.

The crying was a surprise. 

Enid stopped in her tracks partway up the stairs, listening intently. After a few seconds, Enid had a pretty good idea of who she had walked in on. 

“Agnes?” She called, her voice echoing off the metal walls.

The crying stopped, but sniffling quickly took its place. Enid finished walking up to the top of the tower, looking for the young Vanisher. Her eyes were instinctively drawn up to several swords and knives that still hung from the ceiling. Well, at least she was prepared for seeing those.

“I can't even get peace and solitude in an abandoned tower.” Agnes slowly materialized in her view, sitting on the very box Enid and Bruno had been tied to a few weeks earlier. Enid had a snarky comment on the tip of her tongue about that day, but stopped cold when she saw just how distraught Agnes was. 

Enid didn’t even know it was possible for Agnes to feel emotions like this, much less to be openly sobbing in a room by herself.

“What happened to you?” Enid asked, taking in the sight of an emotionally wrecked Agnes DeMille.

“Wednesday dropped an Addams bomb on me.” Agnes said, her eyes still gleaming with tears. Her words made Enid perk up. Agnes had seen Wednesday? She was about to ask more about that when Agnes kept talking, looking away from Enid’s face. 

“Congrats. You win. I thought I was everything she wanted in a best friend. Sarcastic, sardonic, a task-oriented clue hound, willing to risk life and limb in a relentless pursuit of solving the case.” Agnes hugged herself across her chest as she sobbed again. “But it turns out... I was dead wrong.”

Enid took a controlled breath as her heart struggled not to break.

Dammit. 

How could Enid not try and comfort her right now? She had spent the last few years trying to teach Wednesday how to be a good friend; she could spend at least a few minutes doing the same with Wednesday’s annoying sidekick.

Well, less annoying now.

Enid sat next to Agnes on that stupid box, and put a hand on her shoulder.

“One Wednesday Addams is more than enough for this world. If you're tired of being invisible, stop hiding in other people's personalities. Be your own psycho, Agnes.” Enid shoved her playfully. “Trust me, you'll be good at it.”

Agnes looked up, and Enid felt her heart melt. Okay, maybe Agnes wasn’t all bad.

“Do you really think so?” Agnes’ voice was so fragile, Enid’s instincts decided to sweep the younger girl up in a hug before she could think the action through properly. 

“I really do.” Enid let go after one last squeeze, and made eye contact with her. “And…I actually have a favor to ask. Do you know where Wednesday is right now?”

Agnes tilted her head a little as she thought. 

“I saw her walk away from the courtyard after she…yelled at me. She was heading in the direction of the Nevermore graveyard, and she had a big bag of stuff with her.”

“The graveyard? Huh. I’ll go check it out. Will you track down Thing and tell him that too? He’s with Pugsley, I think. There’s something going on with Wednesday that I need to fix. But for what it’s worth, I’m sorry she went off on you. You…didn’t deserve that.”

Enid almost flinched when Agnes went in for another hug.

“Thank you, Enid. I’m sorry for telling Wednesday to cut you out of her life. You’re a good friend.”

“You WHAT?”

“Never mind. I’ll go find Thing!” 

Enid watched the girl scamper away, wiping a few residual tears out of her now-clearing eyes. Enid huffed as she stood up. 

It was time to go to the graveyard.

***

Enid was almost immediately blown up the second she arrived.

“Shit!” She yelled, ducking down as the debris from a headstone was blasted into flying chucks of rock. 

Daring to peek at the blast site from behind the gravestone she dove behind, Enid saw Wednesday look over at her in disbelief.

“Enid.” There was something strange in Wednesday’s tone, and it made Enid pause. What was that? “You’re not supposed to be here.” 

Wednesday rushed over to Enid’s side, and her breath hitched when cold hands started checking her body for wounds. Enid’s brain simply could not understand the idea that Wednesday Addams was initiating physical contact, so any attempts to speak coherent words came out as more of a squeak.

“How did you find me?” Wednesday demanded, taking a step back once she was sure Enid was unharmed.

Enid’s world was spinning, and she desperately tried to get her bearings. Now that Wednesday had given her some space, words finally began to form again.

“I - um. Agnes told me you headed this way after you screamed at her. I was really worried - you threw your typewriter out of the window!”

Wednesday was staring at Enid as she talked. Normally, this was exactly how most of their conversations went, but there was something different in Wednesday’s eyes today. Something that seemed…lost. Or maybe even sorrowful. It didn’t make any sense.

It was starting to drive Enid a little crazy.

“Yes, I did. The pointlessness of my material possessions and short-sighted goals were beginning to irritate me. So I destroyed them. But it doesn’t matter.” Wednesday took a step away from Enid. “However, I still apologize if I caused you unnecessary concern. Please go back to the pack and their impromptu childish game of rugby.”

Enid huffed and took a step towards Wednesday. “What? How do you think I can leave after what you just said? Wednesday, this is like the biggest cry for help I’ve ever seen! What’s going on with you? Why are you blowing up headstones and destroying all your stuff?”

Wednesday took a step back.

“Nothing - I am fine. You can leave.” 

Enid took a step forward.

“I’m not going anywhere until you tell me what's going on. And I don’t just mean today - you’ve been keeping something from me for a while. Let me help you.”

Wednesday took a step back, and tripped slightly on some headstone debris.

“No. This has nothing to do with you. Leave.”

Enid’s eyes twitched at Wednesday’s words. It didn’t happen often, but Enid had spent enough time with Wednesday to know how to catch it when it did. 

Wednesday was lying. 

Enid walked forward until she was directly in front of Wednesday.

“Just tell me the truth! Is that so hard? I thought we were friends. I thought we were -” Enid stopped herself mid-sentence. She had almost admitted something that she wasn’t sure Wednesday was ready to hear.

“Thought we were a pack?” Wednesday finished for her.

Enid choked on air. Her eyes locked on Wednesday’s, wondering how the hell she could have possibly known that. She was about to ask several questions on that exact topic, when her entire body froze at something unexpected.

Wednesday had reached up to cup her cheek.

Her cold hand sent a shock through Enid’s system, and it took every bit of willpower she had to keep her legs upright at the contact. She was so focused on remaining standing, that when Wednesday grabbed her waist with her other hand, Enid did not have the self control to stop the gasp from slipping through her lips. 

“I’ve missed you.” Wednesday whispered. 

Enid’s breaths were short and shaky, but she managed to say a few words between them. “We - we saw each other yesterday.”

Wednesday was staring so deeply into her eyes Enid thought she was going to get lost in them forever. 

“True, but I’ve been…hiding since we last spoke. And you didn’t deserve that.” Wednesday’s hands tensed as she talked, and Enid’s hands flew to hold on to Wednesday for support. 

“I didn’t deserve what?” Enid breathed.

“I lied the last time I saw you.”

“Lied about what?” Enid was struggling not to lean into Wednesday's touches.

“To myself. That I didn’t want…”

Wednesday’s eyes flicked down to Enid’s lips. If Enid had any feeling left in her body, it left at that moment. Time slowed down, and as Wednesday gradually leaned in, there was nothing Enid could do but let it happen. 

Standing as still as she could, Enid finally felt Wednesday’s lips touch hers, and something clicked. This was how it was supposed to be. The two of them, together, as a pack. In a graveyard, in Nevermore, or out in the world itself; Enid was meant to be here, with Wednesday. 

Enid jerked back when she heard the hissing.

Looking behind Wednesday’s shoulder, Enid saw several sticks of dynamite lying a few dozen feet away. Their fuse had just been lit.

“Did you mean to light those?” Enid pointed, and she could feel her inner wolf starting to strain against her human form. Enid went with her instincts and pushed them both backwards and behind a headstone, positioning herself between Wednesday and the explosives.

But Wednesday didn’t look back at the dynamite or resist Enid’s movements, her eyes remaining fixed on Enid’s face. “It’s probably Rosaline Rotwood. She has yet to appreciate any of my destructive artistry when I’ve applied it to her headstone.”

“What?”

Enid clutched Wednesday to her as tightly as she could before the graveyard exploded.

60.

Enid woke up to a quiet room.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. 

“Holy shit!” Enid clutched her now-racing heart, trying to calm her breaths down long enough to piece together what she was looking at. “Wednesday,” Enid continued, “why are you standing in the middle of the room, watching me sleep? How long have you been doing that?”

Wednesday tilted her head a little, unmoving from her spot in the center of their room. The light from the morning sun poured through their shared window, causing the barest hint of Enid’s multi-color decorations to cross Wednesday’s face as her head moved. She looked eerily calm. 

“I wasn’t sure how long it would take you to get up on your own. Thing and I made a bet on if you’d be awake before ten o’clock.” Wednesday then looked down at her feet and handed an eagerly waiting Thing a five dollar bill. 

Enid huffed. “And neither of you have anything better to do than make bets on my sleeping habits?” She then glared at Thing. “Traitor.”

‘It’s not my fault! Without Lurch around, my gambling needs have not been met - and Pugsley is terrible at betting.’ 

Wednesday nodded in agreement. “My brother ran out of petty cash by his second night at school. Without the family on campus I’m not sure how he’d keep his own head glued on.”

Enid grimaced. She decided not to ask the follow-up question on whether Pugsley’s head actually contained any traces of glue. 

“Whatever.” Enid finally said, standing up from her bed with a yawn. “I’m hanging out with the pack today, unless you’re planning on getting into any more Hyde trouble.”

Wednesday shook her head. “I do not have any Hyde plans today, but the jury’s still out on whether they have plans for me. Either way, I’ve moved on.”

Enid actually gasped in surprise. “Don’t tell me Wednesday Addams is letting the mystery go? I’ll have to pinch myself to see if I’m dreaming.”

Wednesday took a step towards Enid, her intense eyes locked on hers. “My attention is simply needed elsewhere.”

Enid could feel her insides turning as Wednesday got closer. Having Wednesday Addams’ full attention sent shivers down her spine. A blush was creeping its way up her neck, and Enid desperately hoped Wednesday didn’t notice.

“If I told you,” Wednesday continued, “that we needed to leave campus together, right now, what would you say?”

“Uh.” Enid said, somewhat startled by the question. “I would ask ‘why’? You tried to get me to leave school earlier this year, because Tyler was going to try and kill me. Is that what this is?”

“No.” Wednesday said, taking another step closer. Enid held her own hands behind her back to stop them from fidgeting under the weight of her gaze. “I have tried facing my problems, hiding from my problems, and blowing up my problems. None have yielded the expected results. I am now attempting to run from my problems. I would like you to join me.”

Wednesday’s hand was outstretched between them, waiting for Enid to take it. 

“Wednesday. I don’t think I can leave. I’m pretty dangerous to be around right now, and -”

“Your alpha status will not deter my plans. You are perfectly capable of controlling your transformations, so you will not need the lupin cages today.”

Enid flinched. “What? How do you -”

“Enid. Your power is nothing to be ashamed of or kept secret. You are strong enough to handle this, and I will be by your side for as long as you need. Now, can we leave?” Wednesday flexed her hand expectantly.

Enid looked down at the offering. Wednesday was literally reaching out, and that’s all Enid has been asking for since they met. Her decision came quicker than she would have expected, given everything they just went through with the Hydes.

She smiled at Wednesday and took her hand.

“Let’s go.”

***

Enid was dying to know if this was a date. 

Wednesday had taken her to the town, treated her to a no-holds-barred shopping spree, and was now paying for dinner at the nicest restaurant in Jericho. It wasn’t a Michelin star place or anything, but it at least had good steak offerings. Needless to say, it was a great day.

What sent this day hurting towards ‘perfect’ status was Wednesday herself. She seemed to genuinely want to talk with Enid, and never complained about doing things Enid liked, even though she knew Wednesday hated that stuff. Wednesday had even tried on a dress at Enid’s request, and purchased it when Enid complimented the way it looked. 

It wasn’t even until they sat down for dinner that Enid thought of Bruno at all. 

He had never taken her out properly before, and while Enid hadn’t held that against him because this year has been so busy, it stood out in her mind like a sore thumb now. Why didn’t she want to tell Bruno about being an alpha? Why did she want Wednesday as a pack? Why was she suddenly wondering if this was a date?

Why did she want it to be one?

Wednesday must have picked up on Enid’s inner turmoil. She put down her menu and stared right into Enid’s soul. 

“What’s wrong?”

Enid had a suspicion that Wednesday knew exactly what was wrong, based on the gleam hidden behind her eyes. But she ignored it. 

“Nothing.” Enid shook her head, glancing back down at her menu.

“Enid. Please.”

Her eyes shot back up like rockets. Since when did Wednesday use words like ‘please’? 

“I was just…thinking about the pack.” Enid lied. “They’re probably wondering where I am. I’m honestly surprised Capri hasn’t mounted a full-scale search party for me by now. I was supposed to be in the cages two hours ago.” 

“Enid.” Wednesday said, exasperated. “If I share something true with you, will you do me the honor of returning the favor?”

Well that was certainly not something Enid could turn down. So she nodded, and hoped it wasn’t too enthusiastic. 

Wednesday folded her hands on the table. “I have recently come to the realization that you, Enid Elizabeth Sinclair, are not a person I can stand to lose. I shudder to think of the hold you have on my soul. The very indelible mark that you have left on me has now become vital to my continued existence. If you were to be separated from me, and if I were to be the cause of that separation, I would have no choice but to descend into madness like so many Addamses before me.”

Enid wasn’t going to cry. 

She took a shuddering breath, and her fingers shook as she thought about reaching out to hold Wednesday’s hands. She wanted to stand up and hug her. She wanted to stand up and kiss -

“Here are your waters.” The waiter said, popping into Enid’s view so abruptly that she jumped at the unexpected presence. “I’ll be right back to take your orders.”

The waiter smiled at them both, and left a little awkwardly when neither girl responded. 

“So.” Wednesday said, snapping Enid’s attention back to their conversation. “What were you really thinking about just then?”

“It’s stupid now.” Enid whispered, almost laughing with how silly it seemed after hearing all of that.

But Wednesday continued to stare at her expectantly. So Enid sighed.

“I was just wondering if this was a date. I was thinking about Bruno, and how I actually…wouldn’t mind if this was one.” Enid couldn’t risk looking at Wednesday yet, so she started rambling. “But I don’t want to be ‘that girl’, you know? So I’d need to talk with him about things, and figure out how he feels and how I feel, and I wouldn’t want to make any decisions right away or anything. Like, he’s not a bad guy and I don’t want to treat him poorly…but yeah. I was just thinking about how nice today was. And how you’re the right person to be my pack, Wednesday.”

Wednesday’s eyes were beaming. Her face hadn’t quite cracked a full smile, but it was enough. Enid could tell when her best friend/pack/maybe-one-day-somebody-she-dates was happy.

“I’m glad you think so. I hope I live up to the title one of these days.” With that, Wednesday picked up her menu and started reading it again, as if everything was normal.

“You should not feel so bad about Bruno.” Wednesday said casually, flipping to the specials menu. “Since he has that extra girlfriend in the Philippines, I think you're more than validated to consider doing something similar.”

“WHAT?”

Wednesday looked up, as if Enid was the one who had said something shocking. “Oh. Right. When I was eight years old I had a Filipino fencing instructor…”

***

It happened when Enid and Wednesday were walking to the train station, holding hands.

“Where would you even want to go?” Enid asked. “You haven’t really been clear about which specific problem we’re running from.” 

The evening air was starting to show its claws. The temperature was in steady decline, so Enid pulled Wednesday closer, using the weather to her every possible advantage. Wednesday did not pull away.

“I’m not sure.” Wednesday replied. “Where is the best place to hide from the curse of a dead Psychic?”

“Canada.” Enid said immediately, nudging Wednesday’s shoulder a bit. “Dead Psychics don’t have passports.” 

The edge of Wednesday’s mouth ever-so-slightly seemed to rise. “Of course. Why didn’t I think of that?”

Enid stopped walking and pulled on Wednesday’s arm, forcing her look up at her face. 

“But really, what curse are you running from? It’s really not like you to run. Why can’t we stay so I can help you figure this out?”

Wednesday cupped Enid’s cheek. It’s like she enjoyed making Enid’s mind go blank.

“I am no longer sure this is a curse I can break. I think this is a curse that is meant to break me.”

“Wait, Wednesday.” Enid reached up to grab at the hand Wednesday put on her face. “You can’t mean that. All that stuff you said over dinner about losing me - I feel the same about you. You can’t just roll over and let this take you! I won’t let you die.”

Wednesday’s entire body reacted to Enid’s words. She looked up with the most sorrowful gaze Enid had ever seen.

“I know. It’s what hurts the most.”

Enid’s instincts kicked in before she knew why. She pushed Wednesday to the side right before a drunk driver jumped the curb, barreling his truck right into the space they were just standing. 

Only now it was just Enid. 

Her werewolf nature made it easier for her to take these kinds of blows, but not even advanced Fur healing could fix a broken spine. As Enid was thrown dozens of feet back, slamming into the brick wall of the nearest store, she heard Wednesday shout her name.  

“Enid!”

Several other pedestrians were crowding around her, and Enid could distantly hear someone dialing an ambulance. But she knew it was too late for that. She couldn’t feel any part of her body, and her vision was beginning to narrow.

Luckily, the exact person she wanted to see most had just shoved her way into her line of sight. 

“Move or die.” Wednesday said to a man who was in her way, brandishing a pocketknife to accentuate her point. As the others in Enid’s vicinity scattered, she tried her best to keep her eyes focused on Wednesday. Her friend, her pack, her maybe-something-more. The last face she’d ever see. 

None of Enid’s muscles were responding to her brain, but she still shed a tear when Wednesday read her mind and held her hand. Wednesday brought Enid’s hand up to her lips, kissing it softly before leaning in to whisper something into Enid’s ear.

“I love you, Enid Sinclair.”

Enid died before Wednesday’s lips met her cheek.  

??

Enid woke up to a quiet room.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. But a noise on Enid’s side grabbed her attention first.

“What are you doing?” Enid asked, stifling a yawn as she spoke.

“Making sure you wear comfortable shoes.” Wednesday victoriously held up a pair of Enid’s sneakers, presenting them to her like a trophy.

“...what?” Enid got out of bed and grabbed the shoes, her brain too tired to understand what was happening. 

“We’re hiking to one of the Nevermore Forest’s many hidden clearings for lunch. I’ve ensured the steaks are cooked more to your liking this time.” Wednesday picked up a picnic basket that was placed next to their door and looked over at Enid expectantly.

Enid was frozen in place. A million thoughts ran through her head, but before she could voice any of them, Wednesday seemed to read her mind.

“No, I have not been possessed or body-snatched. Yes, I have planned and prepared a picnic lunch for the two of us, despite my previously held belief that picnics were a sunny waste of a proper meal. You are not dreaming, nor hallucinating, nor being pranked. I would simply like for the two of us to have a day together. As…friends.”

Whatever words Enid had managed to form in her head were suddenly gone. Enid looked down at the picnic basket, and she could smell just how many good foods Wednesday must have stolen from the school’s kitchen. Wednesday was reaching out, and that’s all Enid has been asking for since they met. Her decision came quicker than she would have expected, given everything they just went through with the Hydes.

But as she spoke, Enid realized it was really the only answer she was capable of giving.

“Okay, let's go.”

***

Enid knew there was no perfect way to die. 

It was always meant to be a tragic, or brutal, or taxing process. But laying in the middle of a field of flowers, having her head cradled by Wednesday Addams? Who was humming a song to make her feel more at peace?

Enid thought that wasn’t such a bad way to go after all.

???

Enid woke up to a quiet room.

Sitting up in bed and stretching her muscles awake, Enid curiously looked over to Wednesday’s side of the room. It looked empty at first glance, but a morning breeze lofted its way through the open window, drawing Enid’s attention to the balcony. Enid could see Wednesday through the colored glass, sitting on the edge of the terrace and looking out over the campus.

Enid slowly got out of bed and walked outside, waving good morning to Thing on her way past. He gave her a quick heads-up before she crossed the windowsill.

‘She’s in a weird mood. I’m not sure why, so maybe just tread carefully.’

Enid gave Thing a thumbs up. 

Exiting into the morning air, Enid paused once she heard Wednesday talking to nobody. 

“I refuse to explain the situation even once more. The dirty trick cannot be reversed. If you have not been able to find anything useful in any of the past iterations, I fail to see how this one will magically be different. The last thing I’ll ever ask of you is solitude for my descent into madness. Leave.”

Enid felt her insides squirm. Either Wednesday was talking to her and telling her to leave, or she had finally lost her mind. Enid wasn’t sure which option was worse.

“Were you talking to me?” She asked, hoping her voice didn’t sound too small.

“No.” Wednesday said. She didn’t turn around to look at her, nor did she sound surprised that Enid was there. She just remained still as a statue on the ledge of their balcony, staring out at the horizon. 

“Oh. Okay.” Enid walked up next to her, trying to force eye contact. She had never seen Wednesday look like this. It was hard to pinpoint what emotion was on her face - but Enid’s best guess was ‘defeated’, and that didn’t make sense at all. It was definitely a red flag, on top of all the other red flags Enid had already seen this morning. Enid decided to approach the topic slowly, taking Thing’s advice to heart.

“Who were you talking to, then?”

“Principal Weems.”

Enid had several questions already formed on her lips when Wednesday beat her to it. “Yes, I am aware that she is dead. No, I have not lost my mind. No, you do not need to call my mother to check on me. Principal Weems is my new spirit guide - and a thoroughly unhelpful one at that.”

Enid blinked. “Ohhh-kay. Do you…need help with something, then?”

Wednesday’s gaze remained fixed on the landscape. 

“Yes. But even the great Larissa Weems cannot help me escape the trap I now lie inside.” Wednesday finally looked over at Enid. “I cannot do this today, I’m sorry. Please enjoy your day with the pack. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Wednesday turned towards the dorm and jumped down onto the balcony’s floor, heading for the window. Enid ran to stand in her way, arms outstretched. 

“Uh-uh. What is wrong with you? You ‘can’t do this today’? Do you mean the investigation? I’ve never seen you give up on anything - so tell me what’s going on or I’ll have to assume you’ve either been body-snatched or possessed.” Enid extended her claws for dramatic effect.

Wednesday’s face went soft as her eyes tracked the movement. “I adore your claws. It’s been too long since I’ve seen them, and have been reminded just how fearsome you are.” 

Wednesday closed the distance between the two of them, and gingerly reached out to grab one of Enid’s hands. With a delicate touch that Enid would never have expected, Wednesday traced the claws from their bed down to their point. It wasn’t until Wednesday accidentally pricked herself and drew blood that Enid realized she had stopped breathing.

“Wednesday, what the hell are you doing?” Enid sheathed her claws, and held up Wednesday’s finger to her eyes to make sure it was just a surface wound. When Wednesday didn’t pull away from the contact, Enid knew something was deeply wrong.

“Okay. Stop. What’s gotten into you?” Enid dropped Wednesday’s hand and took a step back, knowing her friend would prefer to have her own space.

There was a flash of something like disappointment in Wednesday’s face before she responded. “Can’t an Addams lose her mind in peace?” 

Enid crossed her arms, still standing in her way. Wednesday sighed. 

“You have done everything you can to help me. You have divulged to me the innermost secrets of your life, and yet I continuously fail to keep you alive until dawn. I cannot ask more of you than what I already have, it would simply hurt us both.” Wednesday tore her eyes away from Enid and pushed past her, stepping into their room as if the conversation was over.

She was very wrong.

Enid followed her inside, standing in her way again as Wednesday tried to go for the door.

“Wednesday. You haven’t asked anything of me all year - that’s the whole problem!” Enid let her arms flail up a little as her words became heated. “I keep asking you to let me in, to include me in your plans, to let me help! But you just push me away. So I’m going to do it one more time, and you’re going to listen.”

Enid took a big step towards Wednesday, and held her finger out towards her accusatorily. “Something is wrong. Tell me what happened. You said something about ‘keeping me alive until dawn’, right? What does that mean?”

There were several tense moments as the two of them stood in a silent battle of wills. Enid was not going to back down, and she could practically see Wednesday weighing the pros and cons of relenting. Even Thing was frozen in place, watching with bated breath to see if he’d need to run interference. 

But by some miracle, Wednesday relented. 

“I am stuck reliving the same day ad nauseam. This perpetual hell always ends the same way: with your death.” Enid took a step back at the words, a small gasp escaping her lips as the weight of that admission settled over her. She desperately wanted to ask whether Wednesday was kidding.

But she knew better than that.

Wednesday continued, “The events surrounding your death change each day. I cannot anticipate nor prevent the oftentimes brutal end to your life.” Wednesday took a step forward. “I have watched you die countless times, and my best efforts to save you have never been enough. I would get on my knees and beg for your forgiveness if it would mean anything at all, if it would offer either of us even an ounce of catharsis, but in a few hours time, you won’t remember the words I wish to carve upon your very heart.”

Enid gasped again, but this time it was to prevent tears from forming in her eyes. Wednesday was suddenly standing so close, and the fiery spirit that Enid admired so much was back behind Wednesday’s eyes, and it was all for her. Enid had never felt such an intense pang in her chest before. It was so sharp and unexpected, she’s not entirely sure what emotion put it there. At that moment, there was only one thing Enid knew for sure.

Wednesday would not be watching her die again.

“What’s -” Enid cleared her throat, trying desperately to mask the overwhelming sea of emotions hiding right below the edges of her sanity. “What’s causing the day to reset? Maybe we can break the curse, or stop whatever is doing this to you.”

Wednesday let out a small sigh, shaking her head slightly. “I know exactly who is doing this to me, why she is doing this, and how to stop it. Yet I still cannot escape. I am making my peace with this, Enid. You should do the same before the day starts over.”

“No.” Enid spoke a little louder than Wednesday, hoping to renew some energy into Wednesday’s currently absent drive. “We’re fixing this, today. Tell me everything. Who is doing this to you? And why?”

Wednesday looked like she was about to go silent again, and Enid wanted to snap her out of it before she could decide to shut Enid out. So she put a strong hand on Wednesday’s shoulder, gripping her hard.

“Don’t you dare push me away.”

Wednesday’s eyes snapped up. It looked like she was searching for something in Enid’s face. Several seconds passed before Wednesday gave a slight nod.

“The night before this started,” Wednesday began, “I went to the grave of a Raven called Rosaline Rotwood. Legend has it that she can grant Psychics temporary use of their second sight. But there was a catch. If her gaze was broken before she was done with me, she would play a dirty trick.”

Enid nodded along, keeping her hand firmly on Wednesday’s shoulder as if to make sure she didn’t leave their conversation early. Wednesday did not pull away.

“I was in the middle of communing with Rotwood when I was prematurely pulled from the vision. By you.” Enid felt her face scrunch at Wednesday’s words. She didn’t remember doing that. 

But Wednesday continued. “You were concerned that my disappearance would disrupt the dorm’s attendance at the gala. You escorted me back, we went to sleep, and when I awoke the next morning, I learned very quickly what dirty trick Rotwood had picked for me.”

Wednesday moved her hand up to cover Enid’s, squeezing it gently. “I would be forced to live out the very vision I sought to prevent. Over and over again. I thought my premonition of your death was demanding enough on my sanity, but I had no idea the toll it would take to watch it happen time and again.”

Enid squeezed Wednesday’s shoulder, trying to silently convey how much Wednesday’s words were affecting her. But Enid had to focus on the facts. Wednesday needed help getting out of this, and Enid was going to be there for her, no matter how emotional she became. 

“You had a vision of my death? That’s why you went to see this Rotwood person?”

Wednesday nodded slowly as her demeanor changed ever-so-slightly. Suddenly, Wednesday looked very small.

“Why didn’t you just tell me? I could have helped you.” Enid started thinking through their last semester together, and several of their interactions began to take shape with devastating clarity. 

“Oh.” Enid said. “You thought I needed your protection. Because I’m helpless.”

“I was wrong.” Wednesday said immediately. Enid tried to pull her hand away, but Wednesday held on tight. “You are stronger than even you know. Do not mistake my actions from months ago for my current feelings.”

“Months?” Enid whispered. “Wednesday, how long have you been stuck here?”

“I discovered early on how to break the curse.” Wednesday said, deflecting. “Rotwood told me I had until dawn to unravel your innermost secrets. I have spent so long discovering everything about you, and yet dawn never comes. I remain trapped, and have trapped you along with me.”

Enid felt the world spin. Wednesday knew everything about her? What could that possibly mean? Enid was too afraid to ask. 

So it was Enid’s turn to deflect.

“Okay. Um. Have you tried asking your mom? Or grandmother? They might know about Psychic curses.”

“Several times. They always believe my story, yet they cannot find solutions to my problem before the day inevitably resets. Having to start their research from scratch each time grew tedious, and I abandoned that avenue long ago.”

Enid took a deep breath. “Okay. What about magic spells? Can you cast your own curse back on Rotwood?”

Wednesday shook her head. “The time it would take to cast such a spell would take me well over a day, and time is a luxury I do not possess.”

“Alright. Well. What haven’t we tried yet?” Enid was lost in concentration. There had to be something they were missing.

“I have tried everything. I have blown up Rotwood’s gravestone. I have tried to run, and to hide. I have sought advice from every member of Nevermore staff and the student body. I have read every book in the Nightshade’s library that even contains the word ‘Psychic’. There is nothing. I have lost.”

“Like hell you have.” Enid glanced around their room until she found Thing. He was sitting on Wednesday’s bed, watching them talk with rapt attention. “Thing. I need you to run interference for me with Ms. Capri and the pack. I’m going to spend as long as it takes to figure this out with Wednesday, and I don’t want Capri popping up and dragging me to the lupin cages, or the pack asking to hang out, in the middle of everything.”

‘I can do that. Why would she want you in the lupin cages? It’s not a full moon.’

“She’s an alpha wolf.” Wednesday replied. The shock Enid felt was temporary, as she forced herself to acknowledge the truth of what Wednesday was saying: she knew everything about her.

Enid nodded. “That’s, um, exactly right.”

Wednesday made eye contact with her, and Enid could practically feel the enormous amount of information Wednesday held, all hiding right behind her eyes. She knew that Enid wanted them to be a pack. She knew what being an alpha wolf means for her. She knew how terrified Enid was of ending up alone. 

At some point, Enid had said all these things to Wednesday. And she had no idea what Wednesday said back.

Thing jumped off Wednesday’s bed and scurried right up to her foot. ‘I’m so sorry I can’t help more. But it seems like this is something you two have to fix yourselves.’

Wednesday knelt down next to Thing. “You are the best helping hand I could ask for. Simply by being a constant, stable presence in this sea of spiraling madness, you have kept me moored to this reality far longer than I had any right to. Thank you, Thing.”

Thing started shaking. 

Walking over on wobbly fingers, he grabbed Wednesday’s outstretched hand and squeezed. ‘Please don’t give up.’ He signed, after their hug was over. ‘I’ll buy you as much time as I can.’

“I know you will.” Wednesday replied. 

With a nod in both of their directions, Thing ran out of the door.

Enid finally let a tear fall.

“That was…really nice, Wednesday.” Enid wiped her eyes so that nothing else would fall. She didn’t want to start sobbing when they had a curse to break.

“It was true. Thing always had an objective perspective on the issue whenever I broached the subject to him. He is a loyal friend.” Wednesday stood up, and placed her hands behind her back as she looked at Enid. “Where would you like to start?”

Enid thought about it for a moment. Nothing Wednesday had done has worked so far, so they needed to try something brand-new. 

“Have you checked the internet yet?”

The blank expression on Wednesday’s face gave Enid the answer before she could respond.

Enid giggled. “Oh, you’re going to hate it. How familiar are you with Groundhog Day?”

***

Enid and Wednesday had taken over the Nightshades library. After hours of meticulous internet research, the two of them had created an investigation board more elaborate than anything Enid had seen Wednesday make so far.

“Okay.” Enid said, adding one last point to her list. “I think this is our best bet. We know you’re not being Groundhog Day-ed into becoming a different person by an unknowable force. You are being directly targeted by a curse that has the specific parameters of learning my secrets in order to end. Not the same thing.”

Enid took her marker and crossed out their Groundhog Day research.

“This is also not an Edge of Tomorrow situation where you can just kill the thing that is doing this to you to make it stop. Rotwood is already dead.” Wednesday nodded as Enid crossed out that movie’s research as well.

“Desecrating her place of rest does not stop the trick either.” Wednesday added.

“Right. Good to know.” Enid turned her attention back to the board. “This is also not a Happy Death Day situation. You’re not trying to solve my murder, nor is there a quantum reactor explosion that’s causing this. We know it’s coming from Rotwood.”

Crossing out that movie as well, Enid went to the next movie on their list. “I think we need to Palm Springs this. They went back to the cave that started their time loop, and blew themselves up there.”

Wednesday dropped her quantum physics research in her rush to stand up.

“We are not blowing you up on purpose. That cannot be the solution.”

Enid had to force herself not to jump. She was still getting used to this version of Wednesday. She was someone who cared about Enid so much that she had spent countless days trying to save her life. Who looked at her with eyes that knew too much. Who cursed the very idea of Enid getting hurt. 

Having Wednesday Addams’ attention was already one of Enid’s favorite things, but now it was like an addiction. Enid could stay here with her forever. 

To make sure that would happen, she first needed to save Wednesday’s life.

“I’m not suggesting we blow ourselves up.” Enid said, putting a hand out to calm her down. “I just think we should go back to where this all started: Rotwood’s grave. Maybe we can find some missing clue that wasn’t there before. Maybe we need to recreate the events of that first night to figure out how to end this. Or have we already tried that?”
Wednesday thought about it for a few moments. 

“No. I have returned to Rotwood’s grave on several occasions - it is how I first received the message on how to end the trick. But you and I have not yet attempted to speak to Rotwood together.”

Enid threw her hands in the air victoriously. 

“A-ha! See? This could work! Look, it’s late enough that the sun will be going down soon. If we do this at night, just like you did that first time, maybe we can close the loop!” In her excitement, Enid ran over and hugged Wednesday as hard as she could. 

It was several seconds into the embrace when Enid realized what she was doing.

“Oh my god, sorry.” Enid pulled back, mentally chastising herself for invading Wednesday’s space without warning.

But Wednesday pulled her right back in. She clung on to Enid’s shoulders like she was a life preserver in a storm at sea. It made Enid dizzy. It made her skin feel like it was on fire.

It also made Enid overwhelmingly rattled.

How did they get here? How was it that Wednesday was now the one in their friendship who was pushing them forward, who was leading Enid through more barriers than she thought possible? Wednesday had made all this progress, and it was entirely inaccessible to Enid. Why didn’t Enid get to know how many other hugs they’ve been able to share? Why was Enid left behind, unable to keep up with Wednesday’s strides?

It wasn’t fair.

When Wednesday finally pulled back, she looked up at Enid with a twinge of hope behind her eyes. “Don’t apologize.”

Enid gulped. “Okay. Will do.”

Wednesday’s hands finally left Enid’s body. “Are you ready to go now?”

The question knocked Enid out of her stupor. “Yeah, yeah. Let’s go.” 

Enid gestured towards the exit, and the two of them walked out together. Enid mentally argued with herself the whole trip over to the cemetery whether it would make sense to hold Wednesday’s hand or not.

***

“So, what did Rosaline say again? Like, specifically. How did she say we can stop this?” 

Enid and Wednesday were sitting in front of Rosaline Rotwood’s headstone, waiting for the sun to finish setting before they tried to commune with her. Enid had been desperate for a safe topic of conversation since they left the library, but it seemed like every single thing she talked to Wednesday about carried an undertone of ‘we have discussed this before, you just don’t remember’. It was maddening. 

But Enid figured discussing their mission was a safe bet.

“A dirty trick shall be played upon you, the poor soul who has broken the Raven’s gaze. You have until dawn to unravel the innermost secrets of the life you wish to save.” Wednesday said, matter-of-factly. “The longest we have ever made it was midnight,” she added, unhelpfully.

“Hm.” Enid nodded, taking in the words. “So, you’ve learned my innermost secrets, then? All of them?”

She asked the question before she thought about what the answer might be. So Enid quickly cut Wednesday off before she could actually respond.

“You know what? I don’t want to know. I’m sure you were - um - thorough.” Enid pulled her knees up to her chest and hugged them. 

She couldn’t quite describe the emotion she was feeling at that moment. It was like her privacy had been violated, somehow. But she knew it hadn’t. Enid knew she would have happily told Wednesday anything she wanted to know, freely and without question. But it didn’t stop a hollow feeling from taking root in her chest.

Wednesday’s only response was a small nod. Enid thought maybe Wednesday could tell exactly what she was feeling, and decided not to push. How long has Wednesday been able to do that? Reading people’s emotions was not a Wednesday Addams skill. 

So why did Enid feel so overwhelmingly seen right now?

Enid was pulled from her spiraling self-pity by Wednesday clearing her throat. “The sun has set. Would you like to try it now?”

Enid nodded, unable to make eye contact with Wednesday, and they both stood up. 

“Okay,” Enid started, “walk me through what happened that night again.”

Wednesday placed a hand on Rotwood’s headstone. “I arrived after nightfall and read the inscription. I was pulled into a vision inside of Rotwood’s seance chamber, where she asked me to place my palm over a flame to regain my second sight. If I pulled my hand away, there would be a price to pay.”

“Right.” Enid walked around to face Wednesday next to the stone. “Then I pulled you away, asking you about the gala.” Enid couldn’t help it - she cringed. It was her fault that Wednesday was stuck here. Was stuck watching her die over and over again, while Enid was blissfully unaware of everything. 

“Stop.” Wednesday said forcefully. “It is nobody’s fault but mine. I approached Rotwood because I was desperate to regain my ability. I knew the risks and took the chance anyway. Do not blame yourself.”

Enid scoffed. “Wednesday, the whole reason you wanted to get your second sight back was to save my life! I - I just wish I knew how to save yours.”

Enid’s gaze fell onto the headstone. The engraving mocked her with its mundanity. A few simple words, and her best friend was trapped in hell.

Wednesday opened her mouth to respond - most likely to deliver a swift rebuttal to what Enid said - but she never got the chance to say anything. 

At that moment, Enid reached out her hand to touch the lettering on the headstone, and was promptly pulled head-back into a vision.

Flying through time and space, Enid’s head swam with the sights and sounds of unfiltered ether before she felt her feet finally land on solid ground - or something akin to solid ground. Enid was acutely aware that while her consciousness was in this strange new room, her body was somewhere else. How did she get pulled in?

“Enid! Enid!” Wednesday’s voice echoed around her. Enid looked around desperately for her, but she couldn’t see where the voice was coming from.

“Wednesday? Where are you?” Enid shouted. 

“She’s not here.”

A voice suddenly appeared behind Enid, making her jump. Spinning around and extending her claws on instinct, Enid came face-to-face with a ghost. Wearing a white dress with a long white veil, Enid had a pretty good guess who she was looking at.

“Rosaline Rotwood. Why am I here? Where’s Wednesday?” Enid kept her claws extended, wondering how effective they would be against a dead woman in her own seance chamber. 

Rotwood chuckled and waved her hand. Next to them, a wall began displaying what was happening in the real world. Enid slowly walked towards the view, a little unnerved to be looking at herself in the third person.

But she saw herself right where she just was a moment ago: standing in front of Rotwood’s headstone, with a hand over the lettering. But her head was thrown back and her eyes were glassy - it shocked her just how similar it was to when Wednesday would get her visions. It was not a sight she ever expected to see.

Well, that shock was probably secondary to seeing Wednesday cry. 

A small tear escaped Wednesday’s eye as she held Enid’s free hand between hers, before bringing it up slowly to her lips. If Enid concentrated, she could just barely feel the pressure of the kiss on her knuckles as she stood in the vision, watching it happen from above. 

Enid almost passed out.

“Don’t worry.” Wednesday’s voice echoed in the chamber. Enid saw that Wednesday was whispering the words directly into her ear. “I won’t pull you from the Raven’s gaze. I won’t let you get stuck here with me. Just please - please come back.”

Enid reached a hand out to touch the image of Wednesday. When her hand met stone instead of Wednesday’s shoulder, Enid very quickly remembered where she was. She forced down her tears and spun to face Rosaline Rotwood.

She would get answers one way or another.

“Stop the dirty trick.” Enid put as much venom into her words as possible. “Now.”

“Aw.” Rotwood said, tilting her head condescendingly. “You poor soul. I told the arrogant young Wednesday exactly how to stop the trick. It is not in my hands, but in the one who broke the Raven’s gaze.”

“Bullshit. She’s tried everything to stop this! If you don’t -” 

Enid’s face dropped. She retracted her claws and took a step away from Rotwood, almost tripping over her own feet as she became lightheaded. 

It finally clicked. 

“I’m the one that broke the Raven’s gaze.” Enid whispered.

Rotwood hummed in acknowledgement. “Quite. ‘A dirty trick shall be played upon you, the poor soul who has broken the Raven’s gaze. You have until dawn to unravel the innermost secrets of the life you wish to save.’ I’m not sure how much more clear I could have been when Wednesday asked.” 

Enid balanced herself against the wall, trying to wrap her head around this news. The whole time Wednesday has been stuck living alone, forced to watch Enid die again and again, was all because the trick was on her? 

“That’s not fair.” Enid said, finally finding her footing again out of sheer anger. She stomped towards Rotwood, who stayed cemented in her place in the air. “This whole thing is my fault, but you’re punishing Wednesday? If I could kill you again I would.”

“Is killing really what you want to be doing right now? Or is it saving?”

Enid grimaced, but she managed to respond through her gritted teeth, “Fine. But how do I unravel her innermost secrets in a few hours? She’s months ahead of me when it comes to information-sharing.”

Rotwood placed her hands behind her back. “What makes you think I have an answer to that question?”

“You wouldn’t have called me in here otherwise. This is all a part of your dirty trick.”

Even through the veil, Enid could see the ghost smirk. “I knew you were the smart one.”

Bringing her hands out from behind her back, Enid saw that Rotwood was now holding a lit candle. Enid narrowed her eyes at it.

“Hold your hand over the flame,” Rotwood said, placing the candle on a table that had suddenly appeared, “and you will break the dirty trick. But beware. If you pull your palm from the flame, you will break the Raven’s gaze, and there will be a price to pay.”

Enid took a step towards it, but didn’t reach out. 

“Just like that? No more time loops, no more Wednesday witnessing my death in new and brutal ways?” Enid knew she normally came across as naive, but that just didn’t sound right. Someone as powerful as Rotwood wouldn’t stop her trick just because Enid asked.

“Just like that.” Rotwood sounded amused. “If you had come to me in the first dozen or so days, it would not have succeeded. But, you’ve learned her innermost secrets several times over by now. If you wish to save her life, all you must do now is remember them.”

Enid took in a sharp breath. 

Oh.

“I’ll remember…all of the loops?” Enid wasn’t even sure how many days that would be - Wednesday had dodged the question when Enid had asked. 

“You’ll remember every hour, every discussion, every argument, every death.” At Rosaline’s last word, the entire seance chamber went dark. The projection of the outside world was gone, and the only light in the room came from the candle. 

Rotwood's ghastly visage flickered under the light of the flame. “Not everyone is strong enough to feel that much pain. To witness their own death, to feel their soul leave their body that many times. It could drive you to madness. It could -”

“It will save Wednesday’s life.” 

Enid stuck her hand over the flame.

Enid’s head snapped back, and she’s sure she would have vomited if she knew where her stomach was at that moment. A vision-within-a-vision began to take hold of Enid’s mind. Pulling her into a seemingly endless spiral, Enid was assaulted on all sides by memories fighting for space in her brain. 

A silver-shrapnel bomb exploded, tearing through her skin before she bled out. A zombie pulled her brain out of her skull. A Hyde ripped her to shreds. She was crushed underneath falling debris. Shot by crossbow bolts. Poisoned, crushed, impaled, burned, slashed, broken in every way imaginable. It was too much. 

Enid wanted to pull her hand away. Every instinct she had was begging her, pleading with her to pull her hand away and stop this. Her inner wolf was howling, trying to escape and protect her from this threat, but it was no use. Her wolf couldn’t help. Enid was trapped by her own memories - stuck in an endless loop of pain and suffering and death. She screamed until her voice was lost in the sea of turmoil.

But she did not pull her hand back. Through the endless wave of intensity and death, somewhere far away, Enid could feel the barest hint of pressure on her free hand. It was an anchor - something to remind her what she was fighting for. 

Who she was fighting for.

Somewhere out in the real world, Wednesday Addams was holding her hand. Enid would not let something as temporary as this pain take that away from her. So she held strong.

Almost like a domino effect, as soon as Enid’s thoughts turned to Wednesday, so did her memories. Wednesday holding her as she died. Wednesday shaking her awake, desperate to know what was going on. Wednesday painting her nails, talking about their lives with each other. Wednesday leaving her in their room, alone. Wednesday taking her out in the town. Wednesday hugging her. Wednesday kissing her.

Wednesday saying ‘I love you’.

Enid could feel her hand curl into a fist to prevent it from shaking. She would not let her arm go weak and fall because of that memory. Enid would remember that moment if it was the last thing she did.

In the end, Enid lost track of how many days had just been shoved into her head at one time. It was months of her life, given back to her in an instant. By the time the flame went out, Enid barely had the energy to stand. She dropped to her knees, and the cold tile under her legs made Enid acutely aware that she was still in Rosaline Rotwood’s seance chamber. Enid tilted her eyes up to look at the still-floating ghost.

“Hm.” Rotwood said. “Impressive.”

The Raven waved her hand and Enid felt the floor open out from under her. She fell back through the ether, flying once again through time and space…

…until she crash-landed right into the waiting arms of Wednesday Addams. 

In the brief moment between Enid coming back to reality, and when she felt Wednesday's arms around her as they both tumbled to the ground, Enid had enough time to form one, single, coherent thought.

She was in love with Wednesday Addams.

Gasping for breath as the toll of the vision caught up with her, Enid realized her weak knees were only a microcosm of the exhaustion that covered every part of her body. She was suddenly very grateful that Wednesday had pulled her into her lap, propping up Enid’s head in the crook of her elbow. It gave Enid the perfect view of looking up into Wednesday’s eyes as the rays of the slowly setting sun haloed her face. 

“Enid.” Wednesday said, worry written all over her expression. “What happened? Are you alright?”

It was a fair question. Enid was weak, crying, and probably had a crazy look on her face. But she just brought her hand up to stroke Wednesday’s cheek. Her arm was shaking with the effort to reach at first, but the second it found its destination, Enid felt right at home. As her thumb moved across Wednesday’s skin, Enid took a moment to admire how the light of the sun made her dark eyes shine with speckles of gold.

Enid opened her mouth to speak when she suddenly realized the sun was in the wrong place.

“Wednesday!” Enid gasped, craning her neck to make sure she wasn’t crazy. “It’s dawn! Were you waiting out here all night?”

Wednesday blinked. “Of course,” she said, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “I had to make sure no Hydes showed up. I had to make sure you were safe.”

Wednesday’s hand mirrored Enid’s. She gently placed her palm against Enid’s face and moved her thumb in a soothing motion. 

“Are you safe, Enid?” She whispered. There was the smallest hint of hope in the tone of Wednesday’s voice.

Enid let out a sob, cracking the most joyful smile she’s ever given. “Wednesday I -” Enid took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “I remember. I remember everything.”

Wednesday’s cold hand stilled against Enid’s cheek. “Everything?” She whispered, unbelieving. Or maybe she was just in shock. Her eyes searched Enid’s face for recognition.

Enid almost pulled a muscle in her neck from how rapidly she started nodding her head. “Everything.” More tears were flowing, but Enid didn’t care at all. 

“Wednesday, I love -”

Enid was cut off with a searing kiss. Wednesday ran her fingers through Enid’s hair, pulling her ever closer into Wednesday’s embrace. With whatever strength her muscles had in that moment, Enid tried to do the same. Even though Enid now remembered all the times she kissed Wednesday before, none of those times were like this.

This time, they were kissing with all their shared memories intact. This time, they were kissing knowing the trick finally was over. This time, they were kissing with the full knowledge that they were in love with each other.

It was completely perfect. 

Wednesday pulled back after several minutes of bliss, carefully wiping Enid’s face free of tears. When she talked, her voice was slightly hoarse.

“I’m going to be honest. I’m not sure what to do right now. It hasn’t been tomorrow in…”

Enid let out a chuckle. “I know. I don’t even know if I can remember what I was supposed to do this weekend. Did - did we have homework?”

When Wednesday laughed, it filled Enid's soul with enough energy to finally sit up on her own. She cupped Wednesday’s cheeks, tracing the dimples that were suddenly visible with her smile. 

“I love you.” Enid said, completing her earlier thought. “Whatever it is we’ve got coming next, we’ll do it together. In fact, I have half a mind to never let you out of my sight again.”

Wednesday turned her head to kiss one of Enid’s palms caressing her face. “I have half a mind to do the same. I will spend all of that time attempting to make up for my own shortcomings this year. For not trusting you, for not saving you. I let you die too often -”

Enid moved her hand from Wednesday’s cheek to cover her mouth. 

“Stop. I was the one who broke the Raven’s gaze. The dirty trick was on me. If you have things to atone for, I have equally as many. I will spend just as much time making up for my own shortcomings - for leaving you alone in the curse. For letting my jealousy cloud my judgement of -”

“Stop.” Wednesday said. The two of them stared into each other’s eyes, and a silent understanding passed between them. 

Whatever guilt they felt towards each other was absolved. Whatever forgiveness, or love, or safety they sought was found. Enid pressed her forehead against Wednesday’s, closing her eyes as she took in everything that just happened. 

Wednesday Addams was in love with her. Enid loved her back. 

All else would come later.

“I think I would like to sleep.” Wednesday said, and Enid was suddenly hit with the realization that, through the physics of the time loop, Wednesday had not been to sleep in several months.

“Let’s go home.” 

Enid grabbed Wednesday's hand, and they walked back to Ophelia Hall together. The new day greeted them with a warm welcome, and just for a moment, Enid felt alive.

1.

Enid woke up in Wednesday’s arms.

It was the middle of the afternoon, and sunlight was pouring through their shared window. Enid’s eyes fell on Wednesday’s face, only an inch away. Even in her sleep, Wednesday looked beautiful. There was a part of Enid that wanted to pinch herself, to see if any of that was a dream. To see if she was still dreaming. 

Her slight change in position must have roused Wednesday. As Enid watched, Wednesday’s eyes slowly opened, and as her mind woke up, her gaze fell immediately to Enid. 

“Good morning.” Enid said softly.

Whatever doubts Enid had about this being a dream dissolved the second she saw Wednesday’s soft smile. 

“Is it morning? It looks more like the afternoon.” Wednesday looked over at the window, clearly trying to judge the time of day by the length of the shadows.

Enid rolled her eyes, snuggling further into Wednesday’s side. 

“You’re lucky I love you.” Enid mumbled, pulling Wednesday even closer. 

“Yes, I am.” 

Enid felt a soft kiss land on her forehead, and it made her sigh contentedly. All her muscles relaxed into Wednesday’s touch, as if Enid didn’t have a choice in the matter.

“Can we stay here a little longer?” Enid whispered, nuzzling her face further into Wednesday’s neck.

Enid felt Wednesday hum deep in her chest. 

“Of course we can. The world will still be there when we wake.”

Enid let her eyes close as Wednesday’s hand traced patterns up and down her arm. As she was lulled to sleep again by Wednesday’s touch, Enid was confident that whatever the two of them had to do next was entirely secondary to this. All that mattered was having Wednesday to hold in her arms, and getting held in return. 

In that moment, it truly felt like the first day of the rest of their lives.