Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Enid was having a perfectly normal day. Absolutely nothing weird, out of the ordinary, or crazy had happened to her. Everything was a-okay.

She couldn’t even believe herself.

Enid was not having a perfectly normal day. In fact, she thought that today might have taken a turn to be one of the weirdest days she had ever had. And that includes the day a zombie pilgrim tried to kill everyone in Nevermore while she fought a Hyde after wolfing out for the first time.

Wednesday Addams, her strange, creepy, macabre, confident, passionate, prett-

Nope.

Wednesday Addams, her best friend and roommate, had just told her she wanted to date her.

Well. Fake date, she supposed.

“I-what?” Enid asked incredulously.

She stared at her roommate, who was sitting at her writing desk, still clacking away at her typewriter like she hadn’t just asked a question that flipped Enid’s whole world upside down.

“It’s quite simple. I know that my stalker will be using this...horrific show of romance-”

“It’s a dance Wednesday.”

“Both statements are true Enid. Regardless, they will no doubt be using this dance in order to gain intelligence on me, or enact some scheme. I would like to be at the dance for this reason. However Bianca informed me of the rule that one cannot attend alone.”

The ding of the typewriter, indicating a line was finished, went off and Wednesday’s typing stopped.

“Yes, but we could just go as friends! We don’t need to...to...” Enid trailed off, still convinced she was in some sort of strange parallel universe. It was Nevermore, it wasn’t impossible.

“Fake date? Yes, well that was Xavier’s idea when I proposed going to the dance with him,” Wednesday said, turning around in her chair to face her roommate.

Enid tried to ignore the pang of jealousy in her chest at the idea that Wednesday had asked Xavier first, but the words slipped out before she could stop.

“You asked Xavier before asking me?” Wednesday tilted her head in response.

“Yes, well I had assumed you would not have wanted to go to the dance after you broke up with Ajax. However, Xavier said you had brought it up the other day and suggested I ask you instead.”

“I’m still not seeing the fake dating portion, Wednesday. That means more than just going to the dance.”

“Again, Xavier’s idea. I don’t necessarily disagree with it. He suggested having a significant other might affect my reputation. While normally I would have cut his tongue out at the suggestion I care about the inane social hierarchy of this school, he did point out the idea that I was ‘going soft’ might prove effective bait for this stalker to make a real move in our game.”

“Okay, so...why me? Wouldn’t this plan be more your style with Xavier, it was his idea anyways,” Enid bit out.

Werewolves were territorial by nature and she could feel that urge now, the intense jealousy burning through her chest and urging her to rip the head off of any other suitor of Wednesday’s, telling her to kill kill kill -

“I don’t think so. Xavier and I are good partners, yes, but we are also extremely similar in nature. If the stalker is to believe I’ve had a sudden personality shift, you are a much more believable option. Not to mention the social capital you already wield would be more than enough to bolster the investigation. Plus you are...my best friend. I have never had one of those before, so it is not unbelievable that we could end up together.”

Enid swallowed thickly. With her feelings for her roommate, this was probably a bad idea. She should definitely say no.

“Okay. How do we start?”

Which was exactly why she said yes.

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They established boundaries first. Touching should be limited, no real kissing (“Though the hand and cheek are occasionally acceptable,” Wednesday had said), and only the rare hug. Enid had protested that no one would believe they were dating if they never touched, so Wednesday had conceded that they could hold hands.

“Okay but we need a story,” Enid said.

Her and Wednesday had sat on the floor of their room in order to map out their plan.

“You asked and I allowed you to court me. I don’t see the need for anything more complicated,” Wednesday replied.

Enid sighed.

“C’mon, you know that no one will be completely satisfied with that. They’re gonna want to know when we fell for each other, like when we realized we liked each other or whatever.”

“Oh, I see.” She swore she saw Wednesday's eyes soften as she thought.

“Before the battle with Crackstone. You asked if I was going to forget you. I told you that you had left an indelible mark on me. That was when I realized.”

“Oh.” Enid felt her mind blue screen. She forced herself to say something, anything .

“That’s pretty good, even I might believe it’s true.” Okay maybe not that. “I just mean, like, that’s a very Wednesday thing and also a real moment so it’s like playing off the truth, which I’ve always heard is the best way to lie anyways, keep them rooted in the truth ya know?” She rambled.

“So I think we should discuss-”

“You haven’t shared your moment yet,” Wednesday interrupted.

“Oh yeah. Well. I don’t know. I guess...” She paused for a long moment before continuing, unable to look Wednesday in the eye.

“I guess when I realized was probably after the battle. When I couldn’t find you, it was like. I felt an ice bucket pouring down my spine, telling me that it was impossible that you weren’t still alive. And then when no one could answer me, for a moment, it was like I just wanted to wolf out again. I would’ve ripped everyone to shreds if it just meant finding you safe. And then you were there and you let me hug you and I just...knew.”

A part of her wanted to be as honest as possible during this time, in the hopes that maybe Wednesday would suddenly realize she had feelings for her. A quiet part of her mind was indulging in a fantasy where Wednesday immediately called the whole thing off and professed her undying love for Enid. But that’s all it was. A fantasy.

Enid was so lost in thought, she failed to notice her roommate’s reaction to her words. If she had been paying attention, she would’ve heard Wednesday’s increased heartbeat, her slightly parted mouth, her widened eyes. As it was, by the time Enid regained her focus, Wednesday had schooled herself back into her usual stoicism.

“Okay well,” Enid laughed nervously. “Anyways, we should discuss the timeline of this. Like, how long are we going to keep up this charade? Are we going to say this started today? Are we going to say it’s been going on?”

“It will be more believable to stick as close to the truth as possible, as you mentioned earlier. We can say it was recent, I would likely have needed time to...warm up to any displays of affection. Therefore we can say we’ve been taking it slowly,” Wednesday said.

“As for how long this will continue...I’m not sure. If it starts to prove to be effective bait then we will continue.”

“Speaking of that. Either of us can back out at any time, for any reason. Every fanfic I’ve ever read has made that a really important point,” Enid adds.

“I feel I should make a comment about you using your fanfiction plots to apply to our real life situation, but you’re right. That is an important rule for both of our sakes. I also want to ensure that this plot stays between us, other than Xavier and Thing, no one else can know. I wish even Xavier didn’t know but since it was his plan in the first place I have no choice in the matter.”

Enid opened her mouth to ask something but was cut off.

“That means no telling Yoko, or Ajax, or any of your friends. Do we have a deal?”

Enid nodded in response. She watched as Wednesday stood and considered the idea that maybe she was completely insane for agreeing to this.

“I think, due to your blog, you should be the one to break the news. I have no particular preference for how you do it, as long as you stick to the established boundaries.”

Enid watched Wednesday walk back to her typewriter, waiting to hear the familiar clacking sound of the keys before finally getting up from the floor. All she had to do now was somehow figure out how to break the news to people that she and Wednesday were ‘dating’.

How hard could that be?

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While Wednesday was occupied doing whatever she normally did while out of their room, Enid and Thing were watching a movie. It wasn’t uncommon for them, Thing was surprisingly similar to her considering he was a disembodied hand. They often spent time doing manicures, gossiping, watching movies, and Enid was convinced she could get him to listen to Kpop, if she could just find the right band.

Aside from Wednesday herself, or Yoko, Thing was her best friend at this school...which was something that a year ago would’ve made absolutely no sense. But ever since Wednesday came into her life, she came to accept that sometimes what made the least sense was actually the best thing for her.

“Thing, you heard about me and Wednesday’s plan, right?” He shot her a thumbs up and she sighed.

“I’m worried about it. What if it doesn’t work? What if it works too well and she gets hurt by the stalker?” Thing signed at her.

“I know she can usually take care of herself, but she’s not invincible! I’m scared that maybe this stalker is going to be more than she can handle if they actually decide to make a move.” He signed at her again before giving her what she could only describe as a condescending look (which should’ve been hard since he had no face, but it was surprisingly effective).

“Okay so what, maybe it’s not just about her safety, maybe it is about my feelings but I have a right to have feelings about fake dating my best friend!” Thing tapped his finger impatiently.

“Thing, do I have to say it out loud? Please don’t make me,” Enid begged, tears starting to form in her eyes. She knew she had a ridiculous, hopeless crush on Wednesday. She knew , because she hadn’t been lying when she told Wednesday the moment she realized her feelings.

That night, the feeling she had when she saw Wednesday alive, it was like she was suddenly having a light shine over all the interactions she had with her roommate over the course of the semester. All she could think about is how grateful she had been to see her alive, how relieved she had been to hug her, touch her, especially after nearly watching her die at the hands of the Hyde.

And the contrast of the feelings she had, or didn’t, when Ajax had seen her coming out of the woods. Sure, she was relieved he was safe, but there was no desire to run to him. She wasn’t even thinking about him as she stumbled out of the woods, too focused on finding Wednesday.

Later that night she had finally admitted to herself that she didn’t have feelings for him. Two weeks into their forced break from Nevermore, she broke up with him. Luckily he took it pretty well, especially after she confided in him that she thought she might be gay. He just chuckled and told her it explained the claws coming out every time they kissed.

Thing moved to pat her hand in a show of comfort. She just smiled, a few tears slipping down her face before she wiped them away.

“Thanks, Thing. But please promise me you won’t tell Wednesday about this? I really don’t want to make her uncomfortable and I just...can’t handle the rejection.” He moved off of her hand and signed to her.

“Maybe she could surprise me, but I can’t risk that Thing. You need to promise me.” She held her pinky out until Thing took it with his own. Satisfied she turned back to the movie and they resumed watching.

When Wednesday returned, she found the two of them asleep on Enid’s bed, the Netflix ‘Still Watching?’ screen on display. And true to his word, Thing didn’t bring up their conversation to the girl. But if he couldn’t get Enid to talk about it with Wednesday, then he would figure out another way to get the two together.

Chapter Text

She started with telling Yoko the next day before class. Enid had to give herself credit, she was a better actress than she thought. Yoko had been slightly surprised but supportive.

“I knew you had a crush on her, she’s like the only thing you talk about anymore. I’m happy it worked out for you,” Yoko told her.

Enid had felt like she should’ve been slightly worried that Yoko had known so easily that she had a crush on Wednesday, but she supposed she shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth and just accept that Yoko believed her.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. She’s just so...captivating. I couldn’t help it,” Enid said. And she wasn’t even lying. Maybe that was what made this so easy and believable.

“Mhm. Tell me everything. How did it happen?” Yoko asked.

“Well...” Enid trailed off nervously. “Well I guess it really started a few weeks after I broke it off with Ajax. I don’t know, I just sort of told her everything. And I thought she’d be upset but she seemed happy about it. And that was that. I don’t know, I don’t want to share more than she’d be comfortable with.”

“Ugh, of course you’re all protective over her. I shouldn’t be surprised, you’re a werewolf. Though, I guess you’ve always been protective of her.” Yoko’s voice suddenly went high-pitched and mocking. “ Oh Yoko, she’s not creepy, she’s just shy. No Yoko, I know she almost got me killed but I’m so worried about her I just need to check on her three times after I made the decision to leave. ”

Enid pouted.

“I didn’t sound like that.”

Yoko just smirked at her.

After that, she decided the best way to just let everyone know, was by making a vague-post on her blog. News had spread quickly that she was dating someone and it didn’t take most students very long to work out who it was. Especially after the incident at lunch.

Enid had been eating with Yoko and Divina, nothing out of the ordinary besides a few more stares from people, which she knew was likely because of her post. Maybe it was because this was one of the few normal moments she had experienced since the events of last night that she didn’t see it coming.

One moment she was eating her lunch, the next she felt a hand on her shoulder and heard everyone quiet slightly around her. She turned to see Wednesday standing to the side of her.

If it were anyone else, someone showing up at lunch would have been nothing interesting. But Wednesday never showed up to lunch, often preferring to spend the time on her own, holed up who-knows-where. So it was interesting.

Enid lit up at the sight of the girl though, just as shocked but also excited.

“Wednesday! What are you doing here? Oh, do you want to sit with us?” Enid asked, already scooting over to make room for her. Wednesday took a seat and Enid didn’t fail to notice how close the two of them were sitting, nearly close enough to touch. She guessed their plan truly was in action.

“I haven’t seen you since this morning. While usually I would rather wear one of your rainbow monstrosities you call a sweater than spend any more time than I have to around the students of this school, I found the idea was much more bearable if it meant seeing you,” Wednesday replied.

Enid knew that this was supposed to be fake but in Wednesday-speak that was possibly one of the most romantic things she could’ve ever said. So she did exactly what she would’ve done if this weren’t fake.

She kissed her cheek.

“That is the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me Wednesday!”

If she didn’t know any better she would’ve said her roommate was blushing. But she did know better and so she turned her attention to another pressing matter.

“Wednesday, where’s your lunch?”

“I don’t typically eat lunch. I find my breakfast is often more than enough and on the occasions when it isn’t, the sensation of an empty stomach is often a good motivator for me to push through the day,” Wednesday replied succinctly. No way was Enid letting that slide. So she moved her plate over and offered Wednesday her fork.

“No way. If you’re going to sit with me at lunch, you’re going to at least eat something.” Wednesday eyed the plate and Enid for a moment before taking the fork and taking a small bite of the food.

“Fine. But you cannot offer all of your food, I know your caloric intake has increased since your transformations began.” Enid just smiled in response.

After that, pretty much everyone knew that not only were Enid and Wednesday dating, but Wednesday had allowed overt affection from the blonde. Judging by the amount of questions Enid had to avoid throughout the day, it was major gossip.

By the time she made it back to their room, she was exhausted.

She had been hoping that Wednesday would be there, so she could tell her all about the ridiculous questions she had been asked. But their dorm was empty and silent, even Thing wasn’t there. She sighed, setting down her bag before heading to her desk to do some homework.

Another two hours passed before she finally heard Wednesday’s footsteps approaching their door. However, just as she expected the door to open, she heard the girl pause for a long moment. Weird.

When the door finally did open, Enid expected Wednesday to go straight to her closet to change; her usual routine after class. However, Wednesday surprised her for the second time that day by making her way over to Enid and placing her hand on the back of the blonde’s shoulder.

“Good evening. Are you done with your work already?” Enid glanced up from the game she had been playing, but before she could respond, Wednesday started lightly rubbing the thumb resting on her neck. She tried to remind herself that this was fake, that Wednesday was doing this for a reason, that it didn’t matter to her like it did to Enid, but-

“Uh, yes. But Wednesday...you know we’re in the dorm right? So we don’t need to, ya know. Do the affection here.” Her eyes widened as a thought came to her.

“Unless you want to, or something! You know me, I’m pretty clingy so, like, I totally don’t mind! I just want to make sure you’re not uncomfortable!”

“First, I never do things that I don’t actually want to do. If you made me uncomfortable, you would know. Second, I showed you the pictures my stalker has sent me so far. Some of them were taken of me in this dorm room. If this ruse is meant to fool them, we must also keep it up here.”

That made sense. Wednesday was right, the stalker clearly could see within the dorm room (which, now that she thought about it, the massive glass window that spanned about half their room certainly wasn’t helping). So logically, if the plan was to fool her stalker, they needed to at least keep up the fake dating in their room.

Enid still felt slightly nauseous at the idea.

She was already putting her heart at stake by doing it in front of her peers, not having anyone to confide in except for Thing about the whole situation. It felt like she was walking into the ocean, knowing that there was definitely a point where she would go under and drown. For anyone else, she would’ve stayed a comfortable distance away from that point, never tempting the line or getting out before it was too late. And that was what scared her most of all.

With Wednesday, she didn’t know if she could stop.

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Wednesday spent the next two weeks leading up to the dance at Enid’s lunch table, enough that it was no longer news to anyone. Enid knew because Wednesday had lamented that no one was looking at her in fear like the first few days.

Wednesday had allowed her to up the physical touch as well; hand holding was a constant, cheek kisses happened daily, and Wednesday began limiting the space between their bodies as much as possible. They were never quite touching when she did that, but they were close enough that she knew it was a sign of real trust from her roommate.

She loved all of those moments with Wednesday. She knew that maybe it wasn’t real in the sense that they weren’t truly dating, but for the other girl to even pretend to do those things with her...she knew it was a massive show of trust. She made sure the physical touch began, continued, and ended on Wednesday’s terms. Enid would initiate, sure, but never farther than what they had already done. 

But the moments she truly treasured beyond anything else were the ones shared in the privacy of their room. The moments where it seemed like Wednesday truly let her guard down, showed Enid some real affection. 

No matter how much Wednesday wanted to deny it, she knew the other girl must’ve been a little touch-starved. She could feel it in the way Wednesday was constantly reaching out to just touch a small part of Enid constantly, whether it was a hand rubbing her neck (a constant ever since the first time it happened), reaching out to link their pinkies, or just sitting down in the middle of floor as a silent request for Enid to join her, where they always ended up lightly touching in some way.

Enid’s absolute favorite thing though, something she would probably never tell another soul, living or dead, was when Wednesday would invite her to sit in her bed while she read.

All Wednesday had to do was extend a hand and Enid would join. Wednesday always started off at the head of her bed, criss-cross, and Enid would mirror her position at the foot. Every few minutes, Wednesday would adjust her position, until eventually she ended with her head in Enid’s lap. She even let the blonde stroke her head every now and again.

Enid always brought her phone and pretended to be doing something on it, but usually she was just watching the other girl as she read. She just wanted to take a mental photo of these moments, to remember the genuinely unreasonable level of trust Wednesday must have in her to allow herself to be this vulnerable.

It made her feel immensely proud, so much so she could feel the wolf inside her pacing, begging to howl, to scratch, to do anything to show Wednesday how she felt in those moments. A voice would remind her that this would end at some point and Wednesday would go back to her usual self, leaving Enid with her heart in the dirt. 

She knew it would hurt in the end and it was those moments that almost tempted her into saying something, to just risk it all. But she knew she couldn’t. One wrong move and their whole friendship could come crumbling down in an instant. So she said nothing, she did nothing, and she pretended that she didn’t know her heart would end up broken either way.

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Enid lay on her stomach in the middle of her bed, painting Thing’s nails.

“I just...don’t know if I can keep this up, Thing. We’ve only got another week until the dance, but we might even keep it up after that. It’s driving me crazy, everything I want just being dangled in my face like a steak, but knowing that it’s not real. I think...”

She thought about all the time she had spent with Wednesday over the last two weeks, how she felt being able to hold the girl, kiss her cheek, just be close to her and have Wednesday reciprocate. It made her consider all of the violent thoughts she had when thinking about Wednesday hanging out with Xavier, or when she worried about her safety every night that she was out chasing down a lead.

She paused the brush in her hand as a thought came out of her mouth faster than she could stop it. “Thing, I think I might actually be in love with Wednesday.”

Luckily she had stopped painting because the immediate flurry of motion from Thing would’ve sent polish all over himself and her nice bedspread.

“I can’t just...what would I even do about it? Tell her? We talked about this already Thing, I’m not telling her, it would just ruin our friendship. She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me, I’m not risking that.”

Thing signed back to her.

“I...actually, Thing, that isn’t a bad idea. You’re right, I’ve been letting this go all on Wednesday’s terms. Maybe I should do something for her.”

Thing slapped the bed a few times and told her his own thoughts.

“Oh, yeah. We haven’t been on a date, have we? Would she even like to do that?”

Thing tapped his finger impatiently at her. She felt like that was going to be a gesture she became very familiar with during these talks.

She tried to think of ideas. A crypt was absolutely out of the question, Enid didn’t think she could go into one without thinking about Wednesday getting stabbed, and she didn’t think Wednesday could either. For all the girl’s talk about the macabre, she knew the events of that night had left a mark on her. Plus, Tyler had taken her on a date there. No freaking way was she doing anything that psycho had done.

She grabbed her notebook from her desk and began making a list of different things Wednesday liked.

“Thing, help me with this, I wanna make sure I don’t miss anything,” she said.

Thing crawled over and sat on her knee so he could read what she had written so far.

Things Wednesday Likes!

• Taxidermy
• Torture
• Solving mysteries
• Blood/gore
• Fighting
• Writing

Over the next half hour, she and Thing came up with a list of various interests of Wednesday’s. Staring at it, an idea finally came to her.

“Thing, I think I’ve got the perfect idea. But I’m going to need your help.”

Chapter Text

Thing proved invaluable in her plan. He helped her get some wolfsbane to arrange into a  bouquet and helped her through the four drafts of the note to leave for Wednesday. He also agreed to be in the room to make sure Wednesday saw the bouquet (though, it was going to be on her desk, pretty hard to miss in her opinion.)

 Enid didn’t want to be in the room when Wednesday came back from class that day. She didn’t want Wednesday to feel any pressure while processing what she was asking. 

So Enid was holed up in the library, working on her homework (and watching music videos between questions. Sue her for needing a distraction while doing her work!)

“Your handwriting is atrocious.”

Wednesday was suddenly standing in front of her, with her note clutched in one of her hands. She set the note down on the table between them and Enid looked down at it.

Wednesday,

I realized that even though we’re fake dating, we haven’t gone on a date yet! I feel like a horrible fake girlfriend,

so if that’s something you’d like to do, meet me in the library. Otherwise, we can just pretend this never happened.

Love Sincerely,

Enid

She looked back up at Wednesday, pouting.

“I worked really hard on my handwriting just for this. Thing said it looked good!”

“Of course you’ve turned Thing against me, why am I not surprised. He swore he’d only ever be loyal to me, that traitor,” Wednesday said, a hint of murderous intent in her eyes.

“Okay, well you know that that’s not true. Thing is loyal to you over me, he just also has your best interests at heart!”

Wednesday huffed, but said nothing else.

Enid grinned as it finally dawned on her that Wednesday was here .

“You came to the library. Which means you’re saying yes to our fa-” She stopped, looking at the few other students around them. You never knew who was listening. “To our date!”

Wednesday looked slightly uncomfortable and Enid noticed she was avoiding eye contact.

“Yes, well. You’re right. It is strange that we have not done that yet. Plus, I appreciated the wolfsbane. Though I have to ask...was that Thing’s doing or is it possible for you to touch?”

“We can touch it, it’s consuming it that hurts us. Any part of it, not just the roots which are poisonous for humans, can cause us to have a reaction. Enough of it and we die,” Enid replies.

“Interesting. I’m surprised you would gift me something that could affect you in such a way,” Wednesday says.

She still hadn’t sat down and for some reason, the reversal of their usual height difference was throwing Enid off.

“Because I know you wouldn’t use it against me. No matter how many threats you make.”

Wednesday cleared her throat before picking up the card from the table and twirling it in her fingers.

“So, when is this date? I hope not tonight, I have a stakeout planned tonight with Xavier,” Wednesday said.

Enid felt that usual rush of jealousy that came at the mention of Xavier and Wednesday hanging out alone. She couldn’t help it, her claws came out. She quickly moved her hands below the table, hoping Wednesday hadn’t seen. If she had, she gave nothing away.

“Uh, no. No, not tonight. I was hoping it could be tomorrow?” Enid asked, trying to keep her voice as steady as possible.

Wednesday made a noise of agreement.

“Tomorrow night is fine, I will see you then Enid.” And with that Wednesday was gone.

Well, step one down. Now for the rest.

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“That’s it Thing. I think I’ll be good from here.”

Thing signed at her.

“Knowing her, she’ll probably be here soon, and you know I love you, but I don’t really want you spying on our date,” Enid told him. After a brief pause, she finally registered her own words.

“I mean! Not! You know what I mean, Thing!” She exclaimed quickly.

Thing just crawled over to pat her foot reassuringly before signing again.

“Okay, well I really appreciate all of your help. Now please go before she gets here.”

Thing shot her a thumbs up before finally scuttling off, presumably back to their room.

Enid began setting up the gear she had brought for the night, pulling on her fencing uniform. Her mind turned to the night ahead.

Enid’s plan for their date was slightly complicated, but she had no doubt Wednesday would appreciate that more than the normal person. Mostly because Wednesday wasn’t normal, in any sense of the word. She was incredibly smart, and wonderful, and weird in the best way possible, and-

She cut herself off. Thinking about what she liked about Wednesday led to that vice-like feeling around her heart and she did not have time or energy for that at the moment. So she went back to thinking about her plan for the night.

It started without Enid’s presence. Thing and her, well admittedly it was mostly Thing, had come up with a short series of riddles that would take Wednesday to increasingly dangerous places or situations.

She had figured Wednesday would get a thrill from both the riddles and the situations. Thing had come up with most of the word play and spent the day hiding the cards while Enid was in class.

The first card would take Wednesday to the Nightshades library. Thing had promised her he could hide it in the safe there. This didn’t seem very dangerous to Enid, but Thing had told her that Wednesday would love the chance to lockpick it herself. Especially with the potential of being caught, since she still wasn’t a Nightshade.

It would take her to the greenhouse, where she would have to find the next card hidden among some of the more deadly and carnivorous plants. This seemed more up Wednesday’s alley and had been Enid’s idea.

The third one would take Wednesday to the roof of their dorm hall. Not all the way up, it was meant to be slightly dangerous, not deadly, but enough that she would have to climb. The final card was hidden underneath a shingle. Instead of a riddle though, it had a set of coordinates.

Those would lead to where Enid was, a clearing in the forest where she and Thing had brought Wednesday’s fencing outfit and two foils. She was trying to keep herself busy while she waited for Wednesday to find her. In the middle of checking the foils, a voice carried over the clearing.

“I have to say, as far as riddles go, yours weren’t bad.”

Enid turned to see Wednesday walking over to her, in the casual attire she had instructed the girl to wear. You know, since she was going to be climbing the roof and running around the forest.

“Well, I can’t take all of the credit. Thing actually came up with most of the riddles. I just came up with the locations. And like...this part,” Enid told her.

Wednesday came to a stop in front of her and looked around.

“Are we dueling?” She asked, a devious glint in her eyes.

“Mhm! I thought we could start with a bout of fencing though.”

Enid tossed Wednesday’s fencing uniform over to her and grabbed her helmet, which was resting on the ground nearby. Wednesday studied her uniform, as well as Enid, for so long that Enid started to feel genuinely uncomfortable.

Finally she moved to put on her uniform, and grabbed the foil Enid had placed nearby when she was finished.

“What are our rules?” Wednesday asked, hand on her helmet.

“First to five. Since there’s no referee, we’ll go by typical rules but no priority scoring. If we land a touch at the same time it’s a point for both of us.”

Wednesday tilted her head in agreement before pulling her helmet over her head, Enid following right after.

“En garde!” Enid called out. Both girls sank into position. “Prêts? Allez!”

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Of course, exactly as expected, Wednesday won with ease. She knew that the first day the girl had shown up to fencing. Enid could fence sure, but nowhere near the level of Bianca, and Wednesday had challenged her and scored a point.

Right after Wednesday’s fifth and final point, the girl lifted her helmet and smirked in satisfaction.

“Final score, five to two. You fight well for someone who is usually goofing off in fencing,” Wednesday said, tossing the foil into the soil.

Enid blushed. She didn’t know Wednesday was actually paying attention to her. She was right though, usually what saved her was natural instincts from being a werewolf.

Wednesday finally saw what was sitting by the tossed-aside foils and walked over, picking them up. Enid saw the moment recognition clicked for the other girl.

“Are these my personal knives? How did you get these?” Wednesday asked.

Enid shrugged and bounced on her toes.

“I have my ways,” she replied. “It’s no fun if I take the mystery out of it.”

Wednesday hummed and pulled one of them out of its sheath, inspecting the blade.

“They’re for the next part,” Enid told her, already mentally preparing herself for what was about to come. “The part I’m personally looking forward to. I’d like to challenge you to a duel. First to force a concession wins. No death-strikes but no holding back either. I want to see what you’re really made of Wednesday Addams.”

“Very well then. I accept your challenge. First to concession. What do I get when I win?” Wednesday asked, pulling her knives out of their sheaths and smirking at the blonde.

“Winner's choice. Anything within reason. Sound good?”

Enid reached out to shake Wednesday’s hand. As soon as their palms touched, she felt Wednesday try and strike. Luckily she had been expecting that and was already pulling back as Wednesday’s knife stabbed into the air where she had just been.

“You’re going to have to try harder than that,” Enid said.

That was all it took for both girls to begin their duel in earnest. After a few minutes of back and forth attempts, Enid began to speak.

“You know, considering how good you are at fencing and how much martial arts you seem to know, I thought this might’ve gone a little faster.”

Wednesday narrowed her eyes at the girl, the two circling each other waiting for the perfect opening.

“This attempt at distraction is pretty weak, even for you.”

Enid grinned, baring her fangs to the other girl in the process.

“What? Just making small talk,” she said.

When Wednesday came in for another attempt, Enid was too slow to dodge. Her knife grazed Enid’s stomach and the blonde let out a grunt of pain. Wednesday had a smirk on her face, having drawn first blood.

“You’re slowing down already? I would’ve thought werewolves had higher stamina.”

The two girls began to wrestle, Wednesday more confident after gaining the first strike. Before she knew it, Enid was on the ground, Wednesday on top of her, knife poised at her throat.

“Do you concede?” Wednesday asked.

Enid sighed and Wednesday’s knife began to lower, just a fraction. As soon as it did, Enid was flipping the two of them over, using the sudden move to dislodge the knife from Wednesday’s hand. She pinned the girl's hands above her head with one hand, the other at Wednesday’s throat, claws outstretched and ready to swipe.

“No, I don’t think I do.”

Wednesday stared at her, dark eyes glinting in the moonlight. Enid refused to let go of even a modicum of the pressure she was using to keep Wednesday down however. She knew there would only be a replay of what Enid had already done once and Wednesday definitely had another knife somewhere on her person.

After another moment of silence, Wednesday’s eyes finally slid away from her.

“Fine.”

“Nope, I need to hear you say the words. I won’t be tricked.”

Wednesday’s nose wrinkled in frustration, likely because her ruse had been seen right through. Enid felt the girl's arms squirming in her grip, still looking for a way out until the very end.

“Fine. I concede Enid.”

Enid’s claws retracted, but she didn’t move.

“Enid,” Wednesday said sternly. “Get off of me.”

Enid smiled mischievously and tilted her head.

“I don’t know, I kind of like seeing the badass Wednesday Addams like this.”

This time, Enid knew she could see a light blush form on the girl’s face. Wednesday wiggled her arms again in Enid’s grip again,eyes darting around wildly. Their eyes met again.

The longer their eye contact went on, the more Enid’s adrenaline from the fight began to wear off. And the more she became aware of exactly what position she and Wednesday were in.

It felt like neither of them were willing to break the moment by speaking but finally-

“Enid, I need to-”

As soon as Wednesday began speaking, Enid moved like a shot, scrambling off the other girl and landing in the dirt in front of her.

“Oh jeez I’m so sorry Wednesday, I didn’t mean to keep pinning you down like that, I don’t know what got into me. I think it was just with the adrenaline of the fight, I kind of forgot what I was doing. I’m so sorry,” she rambled.

Wednesday sat up, staring at Enid with those dark, inscrutable eyes she always had.

“I didn’t mind,” she finally admitted after a moment.

Both stood and silently began brushing off the dirt that had collected on their clothes during their scuffle on the ground.

Enid scolded herself mentally for her actions, she was trying really hard not to push Wednesday’s boundaries. The two had only become friends after she had learned how to treat the dark-haired girl and she would really like for their friendship to continue to remain intact.

She shook off the thought. Enid really did not want to get too far into her head tonight. That would only lead to thinking about things she didn’t want to think about in front of her roommate.

Wednesday looked at her as she began resheathing her knives.

“That was well-played, by the way. I will make sure when we duel again I won’t be as easily tricked,” Wednesday stated.

Enid just shrugged.

“That’s the thing, you don’t let up until the other person says they give up. I learned that one from my brothers too many times growing up,” Enid said, trying and failing to fix the tangled mess of her hair. “Can I borrow one of your knives? I need to see my reflection.”

Wednesday handed one over and Enid used the knife to finish fixing her hair back into place. She didn’t even see Wednesday staring at her, watching the blonde, eyes soft and mouth nearly in a smile.

By the time she was finished, Wednesday had gone back to normal. Enid handed the knife back to the girl and bounced in place, hands clasped behind her back.

“So, can I walk you back to your room?” She asked with a self-satisfied smile.

And the smirk that appeared on Wednesday’s face was the loveliest thing she’d ever seen.

Chapter Text

Enid and Wednesday were walking the streets of Jericho, the former having convinced her roommate to come dress shopping for the dance with her. As they walked, she tried to figure out what colors she could choose to match with Wednesday’s black and white color scheme.

If anyone who didn’t know them saw the pair, they would’ve thought Wednesday was plotting her roommates murder. But Enid knew better.

She was definitely having fun.

“So the theme is just romance, which is kinda lame. But after everything last semester the dance committee really didn’t feel like coming up with a complicated theme. Which I get. But that might make your black harder to fit the theme. For my matching of course, I know you don’t care about matching the theme,” Enid rambled as they made their way to the formalwear store.

“Red and black are a complimentary color combination. And the red would suit the theme,” Wednesday replied absentmindedly.

“Yeah that's true. She sighed. “I was hoping to get away with wearing pink. But red might be the best option. Maybe I could re-dye my tips,” Enid mused.

They entered the store, Enid looking around at the various racks, deciding where to go first.

“Oh, Wednesday, is Eugene coming to the dance?” Enid asked, still looking.

“Not that I’m aware. I believe he’ll be with the hives. They’re currently hibernating, so he’s more protective than usual,” Wednesday stated.

Enid hums in reply, tilting her head in thought.

“I haven’t seen much of him lately, where has he been?”

“He’s been checking on the hives obsessively since we got back. I imagine his time without them was hard after being separated while in the hospital. He has been helping me with my new mystery board though.”

Enid turned to the girl, surprised.

“I haven't seen a new murder board, when did you make that?”

“I have decided to keep it out of our room, so it is currently in the Hummer’s shed,” Wednesday said. “I didn’t want a repeat of the fainting spells from last semester. They were quite distracting.”

Enid didn’t know how to respond to that. It was actually extremely thoughtful and sweet of Wednesday to keep the murder board away from her.

“Well, my head and back thank you. The amount of bruises I had for that week was ridiculous.” Enid caught sight of something on one of the racks. “I’m going to go look over here. You’re welcome to join me if you want.”

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

“Ooh, Wednesday look at this!” Enid exclaimed after a few minutes. Wednesday had opted to stay near the front of the store to avoid the gaggles of other kids who were also shopping for upcoming dances.

She approached the girl holding a dress that she had found in the Nevermore-specific section of the store (ever since the school started hosting dances, the store had created a section dedicated to the sometimes unique fashion tastes of the students who inevitably descended on the store two to three times a year. Pretty smart business plan if you asked her).

It was all black, long sleeved dress with a crushed-velvet bodice and a layered satin skirt. It was so Wednesday and she knew it.

“I thought this trip was for you. I plan on wearing the dress I wore to the Rave’N. The red paint should still be on there, it could match whatever you choose,” Wednesday said, eyeing the dress briefly.

Enid fixed her with an unimpressed stare. She knew that Wednesday was serious and that was what made her more annoyed.

“ No way am I letting you wear that dress again until all that paint is removed. It would be a fashion catastrophe.”

“Shame. It was such a lovely dress,” Wednesday replied. She still showed no interest in the dress Enid was holding up, which made the blonde even more annoyed.

“It was, but I’m not showing up to a dance with you while you’re covered in months old paint. Even you’re a better date than that. Now would you please take a look at this dress? I really think you’d like it.” Enid pouted.

Wednesday sighed and rolled her eyes, finally taking the dress from Enid. She examined it for a long time, long enough that Enid started to shift uncomfortably.

“So...what do you think? Did I do okay?” She asked nervously.

Wednesday stroked her hand over the fabric again before finally looking up at the blonde.

“Unfortunately, yes. But I won’t be purchasing it.”

Enid sighed and slumped her shoulders in disappointment, taking the dress back.

Wednesday suddenly looked remorseful.

“I’m sorry Enid, I didn’t mean-” She paused, taking in a deep breath. “I already have an outfit picked out.”

She suddenly felt silly.

“Oh. Why...why didn’t you just tell me that? I wouldn’t have bothered you with this one if-” 

“Enid, you aren’t bothering me with this dress. You’re right. And under many other circumstances I would have liked this dress. I just already have an outfit. I wanted it to be a surprise,” Wednesday assured her, grabbing her hand and stroking her thumb over the back.

Enid took in a shaky breath, allowing Wednesday’s touch to calm her down. She knew she had overreacted a bit, but she couldn’t help it. She was finally starting to feel the pressure of their situation.

The night before had really confused her. She had told herself that if she was going to take Wednesday on a fake date, it was going to be a good one. She wanted to show Wednesday she cared. But she almost thought she had done too well.

After their date, she and Wednesday had returned to their room. Nothing should’ve actually been that much different; she was still just as in love with Wednesday as ever, and Wednesday had seemed perfectly normal the whole night.

But it felt like the second they entered the room, tension had settled over them. 

She even saw Thing say something to Wednesday about it while the two were out on the balcony, while Wednesday was getting ready to play her cello. The window had been closed so she hadn’t heard Wednesday’s response, but Thing hadn’t said anything else. She wasn’t sure what to make of it.

She had started to worry that maybe Wednesday had figured out Enid’s feelings for her and was trying to figure out how to break it off with her without hurting her feelings.

Normally she would’ve laughed at the idea, because Wednesday delighted in hurting other people’s feelings. But she knew that Wednesday never set out to hurt her. Often her roommate tried to make her happy. Usually in her own weird, accidentally-insulting way, but Enid knew.

So she wasn’t sure what was causing the tension, but it was making her incredibly nervous.

Also making her nervous was that Wednesday had yet to have any run-in with her stalker. This whole plan was supposed to lure them out, but as far as she knew the stalker hadn’t even said so much as a word about them.

She was worried Wednesday was right, that the stalker was gearing up to do something big at the dance, or before. They only had a couple days to go, so if there was going to be some kind of big showdown, or attack, or anything, Enid wanted to be ready.

Coming back to the present, she squeezed Wednesday’s hand before dropping it.

“I’m sorry. I’m just a little stressed about the dance. And your,” her voice dropped to a whisper. “ Stalker . Nothing’s happened all semester and I’m just nervous. Especially after what happened last semester.”

Enid saw something resembling guilt flash in Wednesday’s eyes before they went back to their usual blank stare. She narrowed her eyes at the dark-haired girl.

“Wednesday. Did something happen that you didn’t tell me about?” She asked, letting anger creep into her tone. If Wednesday had done something stupid and dangerous she was gonna-

“If we’re going to have this conversation, let’s have it outside.” Wednesday turned around abruptly and walked outside, leaving Enid to fumble with the dress she was still holding before following her.

Walking out into the cold, she found Wednesday in the alley on the side of the shop.

“What is going on that you couldn’t talk to me inside?” Enid said, approaching the girl.

Wednesday gritted her teeth, letting out a deep sigh.

“When Xavier and I were out the other night, we stumbled on what we believe to be the stalker’s headquarters. Well, it was. It...caught fire while we were there. Besides the poin-”

“ Besides the point ? Wednesday are you kidding me? You were in a burning building? A building that your stalker was probably in? We don’t have any idea what this person or creature is capable of! We don’t know who they are! Are you crazy?” Enid yelled. She could feel her claws already out.

“No we do not. That’s why me and Xavier are going on these-” Wednesday began before being cut-off again.

“And speaking of which. What the hell are you doing going on these stake-outs and dangerous missions with Xavier ? All he can do is draw! You haven't asked me on a single one and I’m the only one you freaking know that has claws and enhanced strength!” Enid was fuming.

Xavier, the stupid, brooding, floppy-haired nuisance was being invited on dangerous stakeouts but not her? Instead she was just sitting in their dorm room, thinking nothing was happening, while Wednesday was in danger?

Sure she didn’t particularly...like being in dangerous or scary situations, but she had done a lot of soul-searching after last semester. If it was to help her friends, or the school, or Wednesday then she wasn’t going to shy away anymore.

Her inner wolf was raging again. She had never been this mad before. She wanted to rip the stalker's throat out, she wanted to crush Xavier like the bug he was, she wanted to...to...

“Enid. I need you to calm down. Now.” Wednesday said sternly.

Enid could barely hear her, too lost in her thoughts. Ripping the faces off of everyone who got near Wednesday was a start to finding the stalker. It was hard to follow someone without a face. Or while dead.

Speaking of killing people, Xavier’s face flashed through her mind again. Xavier was still out there, taking up her time with Wednesday, being as annoying and useless as usual. What kind of potential mate was he? He probably wasn’t even able to protect Wednesday in that fire, she probably had to save herself alone, as usual. Well that wasn’t going to fly with Enid. She was going to crush him with-

“Enid!” Wednesday exclaimed. She gripped the blonde’s biceps and Enid’s claws dug into her arms instinctually. Blood began to well on Wednesday’s arms.

It was enough to finally snap the blonde out of her anger. Instantly, her claws retracted and she was panicking, looking at the gashes she had left in Wednesday’s arms.

“Oh my god Wednesday, I’m so sorry I don’t know what came over me I just. I’m so sorry,” Enid said, shell-shocked.

Wednesday just stared at the blood on her arms curiously. She pulled out a black handkerchief and wiped her arms before putting it away as quickly as she had pulled it out.

As the shock of what just occurred finally began to wear off, Enid felt the shame creep in. She turned around, trying not to cry. She had called Xavier an unsuitable mate...well here she was, hurting the girl she loved. 

A few tears slipped out, despite her best efforts. Her mom was right, she was never going to-

Suddenly, there was a hand on her shoulder, forcing her to turn around. She prepared to face Wednesday’s anger. But instead, Wednesday was in her arms, squeezing tightly.

The shock of being hugged in that moment was enough to stop Enid’s thoughts. As Enid finally squeezed back, she felt Wednesday speaking into her shoulder.

“What?” Enid sniffled.

Wednesday moved her head to the side slightly so her mouth was no longer buried into Enid’s coat.

“I said, your strength is terrifying.”

Enid shrunk in on herself, letting go of Wednesday.

“Oh.”

But Wednesday didn’t let her go far, putting her hands on Enid’s cheeks.

“I don’t mean that in a bad way. As much as I...severely dislike when you are not happy, you’re radiant when you’re angry. I enjoy seeing the rare glimpse of that side of you. It’s captivating.”

Enid felt her face turn red, there was nothing she could do to stop it. Being called radiant and captivating by the girl you’re in love with isn’t something that happens every day. Wednesday’s hand stroked along the scars on Enid’s face and while Enid had never hated her scars, she had never loved them either.

With the way Wednesday was looking at them, she thought maybe she could learn to.

“" Wednesday said.

“What does that mean?” Enid asked.

Wednesday shook her head, thumb grazing Enid’s scars one last time before she dropped her hands and took a step back. 

Enid missed the contact almost immediately, but finally brushed away the lingering tears on her cheeks.

“I’m sorry, for freaking out. I know you can take care of yourself, but you’re still human. I just worry about you,” Enid told her.

“I understand. And I have wanted to take you on these outings but...I am similarly worried. As I was going to tell you when we first came out here, when we were at the stalker’s base, they had all sorts of maps, diagrams, photos. Mostly photos of the people I would unfortunately consider to be close to me. My family, Thing, Xavier, and you.”

“So, then the stalker knows that we’re doing this. Isn’t that the point?” Enid asks.

“Yes. But it really hit me then. That this is real. With real consequences for all of us. The reason I wasn’t inviting you on my trips out is not because I couldn't use your help. I remember how it went the last time we went on a mission together, the two of us nearly dying. I remember how terrified and upset you were. I didn’t wish to have that happen again, because despite my best efforts, I care about you and your feelings,” Wednesday admitted.

“And Xavier has been inviting himself if I happen to let it slip that I’m going out. It hasn’t been me inviting him and excluding you. I often tried to go alone. But after the other night, barely escaping the fire, he reminded me of something I have been losing sight of.

My friends, the people I care for, my family...they are my greatest assets. The school would never have been saved without all of us working together last semester. That was a complete shift in my usual method of operation. But it worked. So after the fire, I resolved that I would tell you everything. I was just hoping to have this conversation tonight in our room, as opposed to here in Jericho.”

Enid didn’t know what to say. She wasn’t expecting this emotional whiplash when she followed Wednesday out here.

“Oh.” There was a long pause before she spoke again. “I’m sorry. Again. I just-”

“Enid,” Wednesday said as she grabbed the blonde’s wrists, stopping her from digging her nails into her skin.

She hadn’t even noticed she was doing it.

“Stop apologizing. I am fine, I’m not upset with you. Look, my arms are already starting to scab over.” Wednesday held out her forearms to show Enid the wounds that were, as she had said, starting to heal.

“Let’s just go back to Nevermore now. You can come shopping another day,” Wednesday told her.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

If Enid thought there had been tension after their fake date, there was certainly tension now. Though she knew the cause this time. She still felt insanely guilty every time she caught sight of Wednesday’s arms.

It had been a few hours since their outing in Jericho and so far Wednesday hadn’t said a word to her. It was her writing time, so that wasn’t unusual for the girl, but it left Enid to her thoughts. Which she was currently trying to avoid by listening to her usually Kpop playlist.

But not even TWICE could distract her.

She was so lost in thought, she didn’t even hear Wednesday stop typing. It wasn’t until the dark-haired girl finally spoke that Enid noticed she had moved to her bed.

“Are you going to join me tonight or are you going to continue beating yourself up for this afternoon?”

Enid opened her mouth to defend herself, but she couldn’t. Because Wednesday was right. She was beating herself up for what happened earlier. But if Wednesday was still inviting her to sit in her bed, then she wasn’t lying earlier when she said she wasn’t upset.

A wave of relief went through her and she stood to join Wednesday. But when she went to sit at the foot of the bed like usual, the other girl grabbed her hand and pulled Enid down to sit right next to her.

“Wednesday-”

“Shh. I’m reading,” the girl shushed her.

Enid just shrugged and settled in next to Wednesday, both of their backs against the headboard. She wasn’t exactly sure what to do with this change in their usual routine, so she just sat there, watching Wednesday read out of the corner of her eye. After a moment, Wednesday huffed.

“Do I have to do everything around here? I thought it was obvious why I had you sit next to me. Enid, put your head in my lap and watch your Tictac videos, or nap. I don't care. But do something,” Wednesday said, slightly annoyed.

Ah. Well. She could do that.

So she lay her head down on Wednesday’s lap hesitantly, like the girl would startle if she moved any faster. Which didn’t make sense, considering she was the one to suggest it, but the last few weeks of Enid’s life hadn’t made much sense.

That was how Thing found them later that night, curled up together, asleep. And if he snapped a picture of the two of them, then no one would be any the wiser.

Chapter Text

“Yoko, please tell me you’re almost done with the eyeliner. It feels like you’ve been applying it for thirty minutes,” Enid whined.

She was sitting on Yoko’s bed, the other girl doing her makeup. She had asked to get ready for the dance in her room to avoid seeing Wednesday. Enid had insisted that they get ready separately to surprise each other.

After Wednesday had told her she already had an outfit for the dance, and that it was a surprise, she figured she might as well do the same. So she had gone out with Yoko and Ajax to buy an outfit for the dance two days ago. Luckily she had found the perfect thing.

A dark red v-neck jumpsuit, which she had paired with some short black heels. It was simple, but effective, and should match whatever Wednesday had chosen to wear.

“You can’t rush perfection. If you want to look good for your girl then you’re going to have to sit through my makeup process,” Yoko told her.

Enid felt a blush begin to form at Yoko calling Wednesday ‘her girl’. It was true, at least to everyone around them, but it never failed to make her feel some type of way when people referred to them dating.

“Oh my god of course you’re blushing, you’re so fucking gone for her it’s ridiculous. I still can’t believe she’s actually dating you, you guys are such opposites,” Yoko teased. “I knew Xavier didn’t need his twelve-step plan. You two managed to get together all on your own without his stupid interventions.”

Enid’s brain screeched to a halt.

“What?” She asked. Yoko’s hand stopped moving and Enid blinked her eyes open at the other girl. “Xavier had a plan to get us together?”

“Well, yeah. I guess Wednesday must’ve told him, like, how she feels about you. So he and Thing came up with some convoluted scheme that I don’t even remember the details of. He just kept asking me about you during the Nightshade meetings earlier this semester and I figured something was up. He told me the whole deal. But then like two weeks later you were telling me about how you and Wednesday got together, so they called it off.”

Enid was reeling. If...if Xavier and Thing had planned to get them together that meant two things.

One, was that Xavier wasn’t a threat to Enid at all. In fact, he was probably more of an ally than anything else. Which made her feel a bit better. Her inner wolf may have wanted to kill him out of jealousy, but the human side of her was still very much against it.

The other thing it meant was that he had thought that Wednesday had feelings for her. Before the fake dating scheme. Because he had asked Yoko about her...before Wednesday came to her about the plan.

And if Thing was involved...that meant it was all the more likely Xavier wasn’t making it up. Thing knew pretty much everything about Wednesday, he was easily her best friend. So if Wednesday had feelings for someone, he would’ve known.

She thought back to how enthusiastically Thing had helped her plan the fake date (was it even fake?) for Wednesday, how heavily he encouraged her to tell Wednesday about her feelings. She assumed he was just being his usual, hopeless romantic self.

 But then she thought back to how touchy Wednesday had become, how it was her idea to keep the charade up in their room, how little the other girl had been insulting her music or outfit choices the last few weeks.

Then she thought back to that moment after their duel. Where it seemed like Wednesday had been about to say something, but Enid had panicked and interrupted her. It had felt like a moment to her, but she was so caught up in the idea that Wednesday would never feel like that about her, that she never stopped to think about the obvious.

What if she did?

“Enid, I really did not think telling you that would make you catatonic. Please promise me you won’t pass out, I do not feel like dealing with your scary ass girlfriend if you do,” Yoko pleaded.

Enid slowly blinked, finally focusing back on her friend.

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m fine. Let’s just finish getting ready,” she said.

Yoko shrugged and went back to doing Enid’s makeup. Enid sat there, lost in thought about her potential discovery.

She was going to have a word with Thing when they were done.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

“Thing! Get out here, I need to talk to you!” Enid banged on the door to their room.

After a moment, the door opened slightly and Thing came out. She closed the door behind him and gestured for him to follow her as she walked a bit down the hallway. She knew Wednesday was inside and she really did not want her to hear this conversation.

But she needed to know if her suspicions were correct.

“Thing. I have a question. I know you’re loyal to Wednesday, but I need an honest answer. Does she have feelings for me? Like, romantically?” Enid hesitantly asked.

Thing didn’t move.

“Thing, please. You know I have feelings for her too, I just need to know. I need to know if this has all been fake or if...or if there’s a chance to make it real,” Enid begged.

He still didn’t move for a moment. Finally he signed to her.

Enid felt like her heart was going to burst through her chest as Thing confirmed exactly what she had thought. She let out a shaky exhale, clenching her fists to keep herself calm.

“Thing, I love you. I think...I think I’m going to do something about it. Tonight. If we can make this real, I don’t want to wait,” Enid told him.

He slapped the ground excitedly a few times, finally sending her an enthusiastic thumbs up before signing again.

“Yes, you can go finish helping Wednesday. Tell her I’ll see her downstairs, okay?”

Thing scuttled off back to their room, leaving Enid standing in the hallway. She grinned to herself before heading back to Yoko’s room.

Tonight was certainly going to be a night to remember.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

Enid shuffled on her feet. She and Yoko were waiting outside the doors to the ballroom. They had been there for about five minutes and both girls were starting to get antsy waiting for their dates.

Finally, someone called out to them. Both girls perked up at the sound, but Enid deflated when she realized it was Divina.

“Hey Yoko. You look incredible,” Divina said. 

“Thanks, so do you. Do you want to head in?” Yoko asked, pressing a kiss to her girlfriend’s cheek.

Enid looked away, searching for Wednesday again. Still nothing. She sighed.

“Enid, will you be okay out here or do you want us to wait with you?”

She looked back at her two friends, who were waiting by the doors expectantly. She plastered a grin on her face before responding.

“No, I’ll be fine. I’m sure she’s almost here.”

Yoko and Divina glanced at each other before Yoko shrugged.

“Okay, if you’re sure. You have my number if you need anything.”

Enid watched the two girls walk into the dance and sighed again. She was starting to worry Wednesday was standing her up. Or maybe...

She hadn’t wanted to think about it but maybe the stalker had made a move. What if Wednesday was ambushed? What if she-

Oh. Well, there was Wednesday walking towards her.

That was the only thought that registered before her mind blue screened (which seemed to happen a lot when she was around Wednesday).

Wednesday was wearing a dress made of crushed black velvet, with sheer sleeves that had various silver designs all over them. It was incredible and Enid felt herself turn red at the sight of her.

At least she’d match her outfit.

As Wednesday approached her, she tried to think of anything to say, but her mind was still pretty much blank. She was afraid if she tried to speak nothing but gibberish would come out.

“A jumpsuit? You’re full of surprises,” Wednesday said, coming to a stop in front of her.

Enid’s mouth opened, but the only thing that came out was an almost strangled sort of sound. She had been right, she supposed, it was basically gibberish.

After a moment she found some part of her brain to respond to her roommate.

“Yeah, well. I thought it was a good look.”

Wednesday gave her a long, slow once-over and Enid felt like hot liquid was being poured directly down her spine (Wednesday would’ve loved that thought, some distant part of her brain thought).

“Yes, it is. You look incredible.”

Enid’s eyes almost popped out of her head. God Wednesday was actually flirting with her. This wasn’t part of the fake dating at all, was it? This was straight-up (well, not straight) classic flirting. Holy. Shit.

“Gosh, I look incredible? Wednesday you look...you look...I clearly don’t even have words for it,” Enid told her.

Wednesday looked down at her dress then back up to the blonde.

“Thank you. Thing helped me pick it out last week. I had to bribe him with a new moisturizer to not show it to you. He was quite excited,” Wednesday stated.

“Oh, is that why he’s smelled so different the last few days? I was wondering, but I thought it’d be rude to ask.”

Enid looked to the doors, where they could see the other students dancing and mingling inside. She looked back at Wednesday and offered her hand to the girl.

“You ready?” she asked.

Wednesday took her hand and tilted her head.

“Always.”

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

She had seen Wednesday dance at the Rave’N, but nothing prepared her for what it was like to dance with her. She was still thinking about her conversation with Yoko and what Thing had revealed to her afterwards.

She couldn’t keep her eyes off of Wednesday. She was analyzing every move the dark-haired girl made and everything she said to her. Enid just wanted to pull her aside and kiss her now. But these things required sensitivity.

...Oh who was she kidding. She wasn’t one for sensitivity when she was certain about the outcome. When she was unsure about Wednesday’s feelings, of course she was careful. But now that she knew? She decided the direct approach was her best option.

“Wednesday!” she called over the music. The other girl stepped closer and raised her eyebrows in acknowledgement.

“Can we talk?”

Wednesday nodded and Enid began leading them out of the room.

Enid wanted to say Wednesday didn’t look nervous, because that wasn’t really a thing Wednesday felt. But she did. So Enid reached down to clasp their hands together, smiling reassuringly at the other girl.

When they made it outside the ballroom, Enid kept going until they were in a more secluded hallway. She really didn’t want one of their classmates coming by and ruining the whole moment.

Enid felt like her insides were twisted and knotted together. This was the moment she went for broke with Wednesday. Even though she knew what was likely to happen, it didn’t stop her mind from going to the worst case scenarios.

“Enid, is everything okay?” Wednesday asked, still holding her hand.

“Yes!” Enid burst out, too loudly for the hallway they were in. She lowered her volume. “I mean, yes, yes everything is fine. I just. I need to ask you something. And I kind of think I know the answer already, but I just want some confirmation.”

She took a moment to collect herself before continuing. “I went into this fake dating thing thinking that I was going to help my best friend. Thinking that I might get my heart broken, but that I would do anything to help you, even if it meant putting myself at risk of being hurt. But I’m starting to think that maybe I won’t have my heart broken at the end of this. Sometimes...sometimes Wednesday you look at me and I just.”

Enid stopped to take a breath.

“Sometimes you look at me and I feel like I’m the only person in the world.”

“I often feel like you are,” Wednesday added quietly.

Enid felt her heart beating nearly out of her chest, begging to just be given to the other girl, desperate to hear that her feelings were returned. There were a few beats of silence as they waited to see who was going to break down that final wall between them.

“Wednesday, do you have feelings for me? Like, romantic feelings?” Enid finally asked.

Wednesday’s eyes were dark, shining in the dim lights of the hallway, and staring directly into Enid’s as she said,

“Yes. I do.”

Enid felt the smile form on her face unconsciously. It seemed like the force of it could immediately split her cheeks apart.

“I fear that ever since we hugged, I have been...plagued by these feelings. Every time I see you, it’s like I can feel my intestines twisting and writhing like snakes. I always told myself I would never fall in love, that I would avoid my family’s curse. We Addams are cursed to utter devotion to the ones we fall in love with. The kind of devotion that moves mountains, starts wars, dims the stars. I always told myself I would never become chained to such desire, it seemed so restricting.”

Wednesday lifted Enid’s hand to her mouth and pressed a kiss to the back of it, a small smile on her lips as they left Enid’s skin.

“But ever since I realized what I felt for you, I can’t imagine anything more freeing. Loving you has made me stronger. Even as I’ve tried to fight it, I find I can’t. It’s like everything in my life revolves around you. And I do not wish to change that any time soon. You’re mi sol. My sun. It’s like you said to me once. We shouldn’t work, but we do.”

Enid really thought she was about to faint. She was feeling so much at the moment. It was like nothing she had ever experienced, beyond maybe her transformation.

Enid opened her arms and pulled Wednesday in for a crushing hug, the other girl instantly burying her face into Enid’s neck. They stayed like that, intertwined together, for a long moment. When they finally broke apart, Enid didn’t let Wednesday go very far. Touching their foreheads together, she brought her hands to the other girl’s cheeks.

“Can I kiss you now?” She whispered.

Again, Wednesday elected not to respond, but to gently join their lips together.

Enid closed her eyes. The love of her life was kissing her...had told her the most romantic things she could’ve imagined coming from her. She felt euphoric, like nothing could go wrong in that moment.

When they finally broke apart, Wednesday brought up a hand to lightly stroke Enid’s cheek.

“” she whispered.

“Wednesday, I don’t speak Spanish. You’re going to have to translate that one for me.”

Wednesday closed her eyes for a moment. When she opened them she sighed.

“It feels like you’ve put me under a spell sometimes. You enchant me. And every time I learn something about you, I just feel hungry for more. I could spend my whole life learning about you,” Wednesday whispered.

God, Enid felt like she was going to explode. That was the most romantic thing she had ever heard from anyone.

“You make me feel like that too. I can’t even think about you without feeling like I’m going to burst with excitement most days. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Wednesday smiled as Enid leaned back in for another kiss.

She was right. It was a night to remember.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

Epilogue

Enid watched as Wednesday packed her typewriter away, the last thing she had left in their room.

“Are you looking forward to going home? Pugsley said he has some new explosives he’s been working on,” Enid said, sitting on her bed.

Wednesday closed the case for her typewriter and carried it over to what was left of her luggage.

“That means he’s planted them somewhere to blow me up. I look forward to it, I have been dying to use my electroshock machine again.”

“Ugh, as long as you don’t make me watch again. I love you, but I don’t think I’ll ever be able to watch that,” Enid replied.

Lurch had already taken her things to the car, so the only things left were Wednesday’s. Out of all the weird, crazy things she had learned about Wednesday over the last two years of being roommates and a whole year of dating (which she still internally squealed about sometimes), she still couldn’t get over the fact that the Addams had a butler/driver.

Though really, Lurch was just as much an Addams as the rest of them, she supposed.

Enid got up and walked over to Wednesday, linking their pinkies together.

“Thank you for inviting me home with you this summer. I’m excited to see everyone again,” Enid told her quietly.

“Well, you’re basically an Addams now. If your mother wants to treat you the way she does, then she shouldn’t get the pleasure of your presence. Though, I’m still upset that you banned me from the glorious spectacle I had planned for her. It was only going to be slightly bloody,” Wednesday complained.

Enid kissed the top of her head.

“I’m sure it was, but like I've said before, I don't want my mom to be hurt. No matter how she’s treated me. Plus, we don’t want to give anyone a reason to get you expelled, we do enough of that during the school year.”

Wednesday grumbled, but Enid knew she wasn’t being serious. The threats against her mom were empty as long as Enid kept telling Wednesday no. That was one of the ways she knew Wednesday truly loved her. Sure, she was willing to threaten and maim for her, but she was also willing to hold back. She knew that was huge for Wednesday.

After last spring’s stalker debacle, where Enid being kidnapped and Wednesday going on a literal warpath to find her ended in more than a few students and Jericho citizens lodging complaints, Enid had been trying her best to keep Wednesday out of genuine trouble.

The occasional threat, the rare knife thrown near a students head, those were excusable as typical Wednesday behavior. But Enid was trying to keep the torture and maiming to extreme circumstances.

Who knew that those would pop-up so frequently at Nevermore?

Lurch came back into the room, grabbing the rest of Wednesday’s luggage.

“We’ll be out in a moment Lurch, you can stay in the car after this load,” Wednesday told him.

He grunted in response before heading back out to the car.

Enid looked around at their now empty room, as the thought of their junior year coming to a close finally hit her.

“Wednesday, we’re really going to be seniors. It feels like just yesterday we were arguing about this window,” Enid sighed wistfully.

“That’s because we were arguing about this window yesterday. You were complaining about taking down your window clings, despite the fact that we’re moving out,” Wednesday replied.

Enid rolled her eyes.

“Sue me for wanting one more night of my beautiful colored glass. Plus, you know what I meant.”

Wednesday hummed in response.

“Yes, it does feel slightly strange that we’re so close to the end of our high school years. Luckily I already know how I’m going to be spending my years after school.”

“Of course, Miss big-shot-author over here. Are you going to let me read your new Viper novel, or will I have to wait for the next release like everyone else?” Enid teased. She always read Wednesday’s new novels before they were sent to her publisher. It was a tradition at this point.

“You know you’re my favorite test subject for my novels. How could I release one that hasn’t been read by you? Even if you do faint every other chapter,” Wednesday replied.

“That’s because you insist on using the most gratuitous depictions of violence I’ve ever seen. But I love reading your novels anyways.”

Enid kissed her on the cheek before finally looking at the door.

“You ready to go home?”

Wednesday brought Enid’s hand up to her lips, pressing a lingering kiss to the back of it.

“Are you ready to become an Addams?”

The smile Enid let out was blinding.