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Chapter Text

Pathetic fallacy.

A literary device that Wednesday had initially taken an interest in due to her struggle to understand it. It attributed human emotions to inanimate objects, nature, and other things. Something that she at times found ridiculous. 

Yet now, as she sat in the sidecar, rapidly advancing towards Canada in search of her friend, the rain soaked her plaits and drowned the skies in dreary colours, and finally, she understood it: worry and a deep lurching sadness that felt echoed by the skies above her. Her torment echoed in trees whipping chaotically in the wind, and her anger heard in the crackle of thunder. 

Whilst she normally avoided emotions like the plague, Nevermore had led her to realise such preposterous things were not easily denied. Instead, emotions swelled within her, behind her usually impassive features, waging a war with her stomach that she had emptied twice that night when she lost Enid to the forest. 

No, emotions were no longer a choice. They were a resident she was unable to evict, harbouring residence even when she willed them away. 

Usually, she willed them with ease. 

Enid was a cactus spike caught beneath a nail. Impossible to remove, eating away at her resolve. She was pain, but even so, Wednesday longed for that sharp stab of her. Before Enid, Wednesday had felt afloat in life. She felt unseen, even when every eye in the room turned to her obscurity. But that wolf, that furry, grand beast had wriggled beneath the muscle of her heart and took up residence within. 

Now, since she fled, Wednesday felt that spot like an open wound. No one was to harm her friend but her. 

She did not save her from the death in her vision simply for the spirits to play a joke at her expense and deprive her of Enid in another way. It was cruel, and she would have the last laugh. 

Wednesday would find a way to remedy this, even if it took her a lifetime of work. 

So now the rain poured, and she watched it splashing skywards as it met the tarmac of the road. 

Pathetic fallacy. Yes, Wednesday quite enjoyed that concept.

As they arrived in Canada, Wednesday unrolled the canvas case that held a variety of instruments from tranquillisers to knives and a jar of wolfsbane; its violet flowers appearing so delicate whilst holding the power to wipe out a human or tame a wolf. Her finger stroked along the glass as she observed the cuttings. 

“I will find you, Enid. I will heed your call.” 

They remained in that hotel room for two days; such was the issue with tracking a wolf. Until she heard word of a sighting, they would remain in the centre of the country. 

“Your wolf is in Ottawa,” Fester announced on Friday morning, blasting into the room with the flurry of his excitement. “Someone saw the girl chewing on a deer corpse on the roadside. What a sight that must have been! A humungous predator, feasting upon a deer whilst the humans feared they might be next. Do you think she would eat one? Not much meat on some, but human flesh likely makes a nice snack!” 

However, all Wednesday could focus on were his first words. Your wolf. Something curled within her at that, preened in a way she didn’t wish to examine too closely. “We leave in ten minutes. Ready the gear.” 

“Sure thing! Oh, I do love a good tracking mission during a storm. Really adds to the atmosphere.” 

“Yes, perhaps we will be struck down by lightning,” Wednesday agreed with a small hum of consideration. “I will ready my things. And Thing.” She watched as the hand crept into the pocket of her cardigan. “He misses Enid greatly.” 

The journey to Ottawa was as heinous as Wednesday hoped it would be. By the time they made it to the town of the recent sighting, her trousers were soaked through. She pushed into the local café, recoiling at the chipper woman who greeted her. 

“This wolf.” She slid towards the staff a sketch that she had drawn, trying to capture Enid’s magnificent essence. Something she could never truly do justice to. “Have you seen her? Heard word of her passage through this area?” 

The woman shook her head, utterly useless, but another older woman came out from the kitchen and peered over. “Deer,” she uttered. “People out here named her that because she kept eating the things.” 

“That is a heinous title for such a marvellous beast.” 

“I don’t know that people around here would be calling it marvellous. Town next to ours had its power knocked out the other night after wires were found all chewed up. Why you asking? You a photographer?” 

“I am hunting her.” 

The woman’s face morphed into something prideful then, igniting a sharp twist in Wednesday’s stomach. “You’ll have to take a ticket and get in line. There’s a big reward up for whoever kills it first.” 

“Kills,” Wednesday echoed, that twist now feeling like a dagger lodged beneath her naval. “Who is offering the funds?” 

“Some business owners came together to put up the bounty. Govt isn’t getting involved, say it’s small-town business and the local police are on the people’s side. Can’t have a wolf damaging the town and posing a risk to its people.” 

Wednesday thought it laughable that they were worried about their own people, before any of them had been harmed, and instead sought to take a life of their own as if the creature's was somehow worth less. “This town, can you tell me which way it is?” 

This time, as they headed to the town, Wednesday took note. Cases slung across the backs of men in hunting gear, likely containing something they thought would take a beast out. 

Idiots. Enid would hopefully devour them in place of her deer. 

Regardless, worry stirred. It was an emotion that Wednesday was slowly growing used to the presence of, unable to dissolve its grip. So, she made peace with it and used that feeling to drive her towards the nearest woodland. 

She asked around first and found a worker in an atrocious hi-vis vest who pointed her towards where the damage to the wires had occurred. By the time she arrived, there were several others standing around, none of whom she wanted following them. 

“Looks like your wolf knows how to amass a crowd,” Fester chuckled. 

Heading towards them, Wednesday played the part she hoped she would never have to.

“You a tracker too?” a man asked, seemingly intrigued by her bags and Fester. 

“No,” she replied, voice monotone. “I am here for a school project. I enjoy photography.” She tugged the camera over her shoulder to let it drape around her neck. She did plan on photographing, but only for scientific and tracking purposes. That and Wednesday longed for a picture of Enid in such a spectacular form. 

“Well, you ougtta be careful around this way. Wolf could eat anyone if they’re not careful. Don’t wanna get caught by the hunters either and be mistaken for it.” 

“Ooh,” Uncle Fester said, his eyes lighting up just as they did when freshly cooked roadkill was pulled from the oven. “Do you think they would shoot me? It’s been a while since I’ve felt the delightful caress of hot metal in an organ.” 

The man stared on in abject horror. “Better you than her, I guess,” he stated. “That your father?” 

“Uncle. He enjoys photographing the forest to track tree growth.” 

“I do love trees,” Fester declared happily, and then, lower, in Wednesday’s ear, “They hide all sorts of bodies and secrets.” 

“We must be going. Thank you for your warning. I will ensure I am cautious.” Her eyes caught on the tracks then, and she began following the prints in the mud. The paw prints led them out east but grew shallower eventually as they neared the point where the trees began. 

“Looks like we’re heading in there,” Fester observed. “Ugh, the welcoming smell of forest rot in the morning.” 

Here, the marks became harder to distinguish given the number of branches, twigs, and crumbling leaves on the forest floor. However, Wednesday was no amateur when it came to the hunt. She thrived on the smallest of clues, and Enid would not cover her tracks well. 

As the floor became less giving in its clues, she moved to the trees. Claw marks, deep and jagged, resided there, and she ran her fingers through them, feeling her friend’s presence. Her head shot back then, and soon Wednesday found herself staring at Weems. “Here I thought you had deserted me.” 

“I had. And I stand by the fact that you no longer need a guide, which leads me to believe you simply longed for some moral support.” 

“Morals are a ridiculous game played by children,” Wednesday countered, following Weems to the sight. It was an open field, and Wednesday’s heart lurched as she saw a group of hunters standing over the unmoving wolf, blood leeching from Enid’s fur-covered stomach. 

“This is not her truth… Yet,” Weems stated. 

“And it shall never be,” Wednesday replied, taking note of everything from the sweetness to the air and the electrical tower. There was a chance that she was following the lines, perhaps drawn in by them for some reason. 

“Once you find her, it might be wise to consider why your powers seem to have latched onto her.” 

Shaking off the thought, Wednesday spun to face her. “Finding Enid is my only consideration at this point. Anything else is a waste of my energy.” Her foot moved, and Wednesday peered down at a flyer. It was a lost poster for a small, fluffy dog that looked like it hadn’t evolved far from a rat. The paper flapped in her hand, catching on the wind.

With that, she was pulled from the vision with a loud gasp. 

“Any ideas of where we’re heading?” 

“We follow the power lines.” 

Following the power lines and the small hints of Enid’s presence in the forest took longer than either of them had predicted. They ended up tracking the wolf through the night, torches poised on the looming trees as Wednesday let herself hope. 

Hope was a dangerous thing, but when it came to Enid, it was hard to know what she would do without it. Although it was a ridiculous concept, it kept her going.

Chapter Text

They trekked for days, sleeping beneath a tarp that they unfurled in the trees. It grew cold at night, and Wednesday welcomed that chill for the comfort it was. If her body was numb, if she was shaking from the freezing cold, she wasn’t reacting to Enid being gone. 

“Today’s the day,” Fester stated as the sun rose, ever chipper. “I can feel it!” 

“You have said that every day,” Wednesday stated in reply. 

Again, they began their hike, and now Wednesday regretted the shoes she had chosen because they were beginning to rub as damp mud caked them. She should have known better and picked a pair of boots she had worn in more. 

“I smell wolf,” Fester sang, his nose twitching as they finally came to a halt. 

“How far?” 

“Nearby, best to keep our steps quiet. Last thing you want to do is rattle her.” 

Rattling a wolf was never smart if one wished to keep their jugular. So, they slowed their steps and kept their eyes peeled for the markings that Enid had left on the forest. Suddenly, Fester dropped to his knees. “Faeces, of the wolf variety.” 

That intrigued Wednesday, unlike the rest, because it was fresh. “She’s near.” 

Suddenly, she heard it. The loud snap of a branch echoed through the trees, and she reached for her tranquilliser. Humans’ darts wouldn’t work; they were stupid to think so, but hers were infused with wolfsbane. 

“Remember, aim for the rear. Don’t wanna strike her in the eye.” 

“Yes, I had planned on blinding her after she saved my life,” Wednesday’s dry reply met the air. She scanned the place, looking for her. “When we drug her, we will have to hide her until you can ready a vehicle for transportation. We switch to defence.” 

“Already called a favour in, a friend from an old heist lives nearby. He’s a zookeeper now and works with mythical creatures as a bit of fun on the weekends. He owes me for some ID alterations, so he’s bringing a big van with a cage. Back is blacked out, so we don’t draw any eyes.” 

“Lest the idiotic forces take Enid from us,” Wednesday spat. “That is sufficient… I commend your choice in friends.” 

“You know what they say, those who do crime together are doomed to bury one another’s bodies.” 

She narrowed her eyes at the saying but supposed it was relevant. However, another crack had her slipping behind a tree with the tranquilliser gun poised in her grip. If she missed, Enid would flee, and they would be at square one once more. A fleeing wolf was fast, and erratic, and she didn’t know how long they had left to save her. 

Fester nodded, and she let her finger lower to the trigger. When the next crack sounded, she peeked around the tree and lined the gun up. As Enid’s soulful eyes met her own, Wednesday knew that she was still in there. That atrociously pink-clothed girl, that bubbly and overly ecstatic friend, still resided within that furry form. 

She fired before Enid could jump. 

The dart hit her, but Enid was flying through the air towards her, her fangs snapping and a deep growl roaring from her mouth. Humongous paws pinned her, and as Wednesday prepared for death, she could not get past how beautiful Enid was in this form. Her fingers, for once, sought touch. As the wolf snarled in her face, saliva covering Wednesday’s cheeks, she let them run through the fur on her cheek. “Marvellous,” Wednesday uttered. 

The wolf suddenly softened, head tilting as her eyes grew glossy. 

A loud whine left Enid then, followed by another snarl as her head whipped around, but then, before she could launch at Fester, she whined again and slumped as her eyes fell shut. 

“What a beast! Never had a wolf take two of those darts before!” He grinned at Enid, taking in her size. “Was she always this big?” 

“No. I believe she has grown substantially being stuck in this form,” Wednesday stated. “Your friend-”

“Will be here before the dart's effects fade. Now we keep watch for any of those hunters.” 

Hunters. She brushed the knife that resided on her thigh. “If I see one, I am not opting for mercy.” 

Thankfully, they had her loaded before the hunters could show. Fester’s friend possessed inhuman strength, which left her wondering what he truly was. He helped them to carry Enid to the cage, his long red hair blowing in the breeze. If his many scars were something to go by, it appeared he had led an interesting life. 

“Never had one this big,” he whistled. “Bloody hell. Look at the size of her. Did you say she was an alpha?” 

“Yes,” Wednesday agreed. 

“Even so, I’ve never dealt with one like her. What a brilliant specimen.”  He smiled at Enid, ensuring her water bowl was fixed in the holder before locking up the cage. “Now we drive. Fester, is she alright out back? Someone might have to top up the bane.” 

“I will travel at her side,” Wednesday declared. 

“Brilliant. Let’s get on the road before the hunter’s wake.” 

The ride back was truly something. She watched as Fester paid off a friend at the border, winking at him, and Wednesday wondered just how many criminals the man knew. It was rather impressive. 

She made a note to bond with more people who could cover her tracks when needed and stuck a dart in Enid’s rear as she began to stir. “Sleep. It is a long journey.” Her fingers reached through the cage, an invisible thread pulling her once again to do so. As they trailed through her fur, she felt a jolt running through her veins. 

Peculiar. Perhaps Fester’s friend had electrocuted the cage for added measure. 

The journey to the Addams’ house was long and filled with far too many pit stops for Wednesday’s liking. At one point, they had passed a plastic dinosaur ‘museum’ and Fester had demanded that he take several pictures to use as postcards. Wednesday held the camera, her boredom evident as she captured him pretending to be eaten.

Eventually, days later, the familiar house came into view. 

“Home,” Wednesday stated, another jolt running through her as she stroked Enid. “Try not to devour my parents.” 

“Tish, look, our little viper has arrived, and she brought her friend.” Her father peered up at the cage, his eyes widening. 

“We will be needing more steak,” Morticia stated. “Was Enid’s wolf form always this… grand?” 

“No. It appears the eternal change has increased her size. I will look into it thoroughly once we relocate her to the cell. Did you-”

“Reinforce it and ensure you can fill the water from the outside should she… awake,” her mother supplied. 

“Perfect.” She turned to Fester’s British friend, commending him on the choice to electrify the cage as an additional safety measure. 

“There is no electricity running through it,” he replied. “Must have been static.”

Moving Enid to the cell was a palaver at best. Twice, they almost dropped her down the stairs, and at one point, a growl in her sleep had her father panicking that she had awoken. Eventually, they had her behind bars in a room in the basement that was usually used for storing wine and TNT. 

However, the room was most unlike the basement it used to be. Now the spider webs had been swept away, and ghastly colourful posters hung across the walls outside the cage. “You decorated for her.” Something in Wednesday preened at the fact, and whilst she thought she concealed such, Morticia Addams was not one to miss the slightest curve to her daughter’s mouth. 

Intrigued, she peered between the girls. “I thought that, given she had spent a long while in the forest, waking up to some normality might be appreciated. Even in her wolf form, if there is any of Enid still in there, perhaps she will take comfort in it.”

“You hate colour as much as I. When I was young and a second cousin dared to buy me colouring pens, you took them all out but the black and grey ones to ensure that I didn’t bring anything horrifying into the house.” It was spectacular parenting. But it did raise the question of why her mother had finally made an adjustment to that rule. 

“Enid saved your life, twice,” Morticia reminded her, as if Wednesday did not think of that fact at least once an hour. The sight of her friend taking out the hyde, and then her furry body looming over her, having dug out Wednesday from her grave. “I owe her just as much as you do for protecting my daughter. Here, Enid is just as welcome as an Addams.” 

“She will appreciate the colourful monstrosities,” Wednesday agreed. And then, hesitantly, she swallowed and added, “Thank you for accommodating her to her standards.” 

The words of thanks raised her mother’s brow, but she never drew attention to the fact that it was much unlike her child to say such. Instead, Morticia peered between her daughter and the wolf that seemed to hold all of her focus. “I have reached out to several family members and friends. If there is anyone with knowledge on how to fix this, it will be found.” 

“Enid’s parents?” 

“I will notify them of her arrival shortly. They seemed concerned, but clearly not enough to look for her themselves. They seem to be treating her as if she were entirely lost to the moon.” 

“Enid is still in there,” there was a sharpness to the words, emotion there that Wednesday showed without realising. “Her parents always were incompetent and harsh people.” 

“Well, I suppose that has its perks because they seemed unfazed if she stayed here whilst we remedy the situation at hand.” Morticia’s features creased then, and she stepped closer to the cage in curiosity. “I have never seen one this size.” 

“Magnificent, is she not?” Wednesday ran her fingers across the bars, missing her mother’s surprise once more. Too lost in the wolf before her, she let herself lean closer. Enid awoke then, snarling like the stunning creature she was. However, when her eyes turned to Wednesday, that jaw snapped shut, and a submissive whine left her. 

Morticia, frozen, watched as Enid prowled closer, only to sit by the bars of the cage as her tongue swiped against Wednesday’s fingers. A wolf, this far lost to the moon, should not hold the ability to recognise anyone unless scented as their pack. 

Her daughter was no wolf, which only left her with more questions. “I shall leave you two be. Will you be eating with us tonight?” 

“I shall eat down here with Enid,” Wednesday stated, the pull in her chest drawing her hand to her fur once more. “She requires all of my attention.” 

“I will see to it your meals are brought down alongside Enid’s.” 

“Thank you, Mother.” There it was again. Thanks. 

“Always,” Morticia replied slowly. 

Once she heard the door clicking shut, Wednesday dug her blunt nails deeper, causing Enid to purr contentedly. “I will find a way to free you of this.” 

A whine fell from Enid’s mouth, and soon she curled up on the floor by Wednesday with only the bars separating them. However, something about the bars irked her. The partition, although barely there, felt like miles. Each time she reached through, Wednesday grew more irritated with them, and eventually, she left to find her book- tired of staring at them. 

“Are you well, mija?” Her father peered up from his paper. 

“Perfectly fine. I needed to source some texts for research purposes.” 

“That’s my scorpion,” he replied with a smile. “Always nose deep in a book. Let us know if you need some help.” 
 

Chapter Text

Pushing forward, Wednesday headed through the library door and moved straight to the section they had boobytrapped. She dodged the dart and caught the chain before it could wrap around her neck, ensured that she did not step on one specific plank, and then pulled the green book to briefly disable anything that wished to behead her. 

“Wolves and eternal shifts,” Wednesday uttered to herself, scanning through the weathered spines. “Who would have recorded such?” 

She had already tried the main books they had on wolves, and there was little information on eternal shifts other than that they were, in fact, eternal. Truly useless in providing the information she sought. 

However, when looking into her family tree, she remembered there was an ancestor of hers, some four hundred years ago, who married a wolf. Said wolf eventually ended up LtS in the family tree: Lost to Shifting. Either a shift had gone poorly, or her husband had been trapped just as Enid was. Given she was an Addams, Wednesday hoped she was as thorough as she was in recording information and trying to free him. 

That is, if it were an eternal shift. 

Regardless, she found the clothbound book and gold text glimmered along its edges in the candlelight.  

Aldara’s Notes on Lupine Theories

Exactly what she had been after. Snatching it free, Wednesday ducked before the next dart could hit her and caught the knife sailing towards her face. 

Hopefully, this text held some answers. 

Heading back, she returned to the cage. Only, as she stared at those bars once more, fury, red and hot, scorched through her. Reaching for the key, Wednesday did something no one with a brain would dare to do. She opened the cage and slipped within, swallowing thickly as Enid stood taller. “Hello, I thought I might read in here with you.”

Enid should have killed her there and then. Instead, the wolf let out a contented growl and lowered back down, curling up in a ball. When Wednesday took a seat on the opposite side of the cage, she felt a tug in her chest just as Enid growled, irked. Something told her to move closer, towards the beast that could end her in a single movement, and so Wednesday did. She stepped forward, the old book in her arms as she moved to sit against the wolf’s belly. Here she felt at ease, finally, her annoyance at the bars fading as Enid’s chest rumbled happily. 

The wolf’s warmth was welcoming as Wednesday cracked the book open. “I am hoping my ancestor has some wise words to help us.” 

Lupine Studies In Moon Transitions

Perfect. Aldara was at least thorough; this section appeared to be two hundred pages long, which was promising for finding something of use. 

She briefly scanned over the first hundred and fifty pages; all studies were marked as failed attempts that would be of no help. However, then she stumbled upon something of interest. 

Silver therapy has been used in werewolf healing to hinder the wolf. In small doses, when mixed with a healing properties ash to prevent its toxic side from being too overpowering, silver is said to have the power to force a shift. 

Historically, silver therapy was used in wolves unable to shift to cause their first transformation. I propose a theory that the same could be said for the reverse. Here, I will notate my findings on my husband’s response to the therapy. He is now on year eight of his eternal transformation, and his wolf has grown slightly in size since the day he saved me. 

Saved me.

Wednesday stared at those words and leaned further back into Enid, getting comfy against her. “It appears history is set to repeat its course.” 

She read on, even when her optimism dwindled like a snuffed flame. Aldara reported that the therapy worked to a degree, and forced her husband’s hands to shift back, but that was as far as she managed to change him. 

Wednesday feared leaving Enid in a half shift. But there was some hope there. Aldara had shown its efficiency, but it would need tweaking. As she thought about that, Wednesday sighed, curling further into the warmth of the wolf that seemed to envelop her. It was – dare she say it – comforting. 

It was that warmth, and the proximity of the wolf, that left her eyes fluttering shut with the exhaustion of the hunt and travel. When she fell asleep, it was with Enid’s soft fur tickling her nose. 

The clearing of a throat woke her, and Wednesday wiped the sleep from her eyes as she sat up, Enid growling behind her. It was a small growl, protective. Wednesday had heard this one before, but never thought it would be directed at her mother. 

Morticia lifted a plate, as if to show Enid rather than her daughter, silencing the wolf. “Would you like to step out for your meal?” 

Instinctively, her hand shot out to grip onto Enid. “I am not hungry.” 

“In that case, I shall leave them here for when you both are.” She stared on with a glint of intrigue. “She should have eaten you whilst you slept.” 

“Enid would never harm me.” 

“That wolf has very little of Enid’s intentions left in her. She should have harmed you, given how long she has been transformed. Which begs the question-”

“The only question that should be on any of our minds right now is how to turn her back. And I seem to be the only one trying to find-”

“There is a rumour that a certain material harvested in an area many years ago holds an ability. It has been found to cause partial shifts. Your father sourced one piece, and it was not cheap, but it should be here in three days.” 

“What material?” 

“Moldavite. It is also known as ‘The Stone of Transformation’.”

“The projectile glass caused by the meteorite crash in Germany and the Czech Republic some 15 million years ago?” 

“Ahh, so you are aware of it.” 

“I read up on it briefly; its scarcity and mystery make it intriguing.” 

“And costly,” Morticia finished. “But the price on my daughter’s life is an endless debt that not even costly glass could repay. Once it arrives, we shall grind it down and try it in a salve we shall apply to her.” 

“We could pair it with the silver therapy in this book. Aldara wrote of how it caused a partial shift in her husband, and he had been eternally shifted for eight years at the time. Perhaps with the two, we could cause a full shift?” 

“It is worth trying. Did she log the doses?” 

“Each one,” Wednesday stated. 

“Then we take it and recalibrate it to Enid’s weight.” 

“Wolf weight or human weight?” 

“Wolf,” Morticia decided. “It is her present form that we need to impact.” She eyed the pair and tilted her head. “Will you be sleeping in here tonight?” 

“Yes. I have reading to do, and travelling to and from my room takes away much-needed attention from my reading.” 

“Understood. As you were.” 

The next day was very much the same, Wednesday only leaving the cage whenever she needed to use the toilet or grab another book. When she parted from Enid, it felt as if her skin was itching with the need to return to her side, and whenever she sat back down beside her, the itching ceased, and warmth would blossom in her chest. 

Two days later, the moldavite arrived by private courier. Morticia checked it to ensure it was not fake and then removed a piece for grinding. As she worked on the salve, Wednesday worked on the latest therapy dose. This would be the fourth, at the higher dose that Aldara stated worked best. She gave the wolf one dose with an oral solution that was delivered by pipette in the morning and another in the evening. Whilst Enid huffed and let out a pitiful growl whenever it met her tongue, she still opened her mouth whenever Wednesday told her to. 

“The balm is ready,” her mother stated. “Have you readied the next silver dose?” 

“Yes.” 

Morticia passed the balm through the cage, knowing that whilst Enid allowed Wednesday in there, she would likely maul anyone else. She watched as her daughter applied it to her nose and paw, slathering it on the underside where her pads were exposed. When Enid growled, Wednesday uttered, "Behave," and the wolf silenced her complaint at once. 

As soon as she took the direction, Morticia leaned in closer. 

“You know I am doing this so that you can transform back, and it is improper to growl at the hand that feeds you.” 

A whimper left Enid, and she sat back down in a quiet huff. 

“We should leave it on her for the night, see if we note any changes.” 

“I will sit with her in case there are any complications,” Wednesday stated, as if she hadn’t been sitting with her every day. 

Eventually, night fell, and Wednesday kept a keen eye on Enid for changes. Her breathing seemed steady, and she appeared calm and not in any pain. Training her focus on another text became tricky when a wet nose began to nuzzle her neck. Instead of scolding her, Wednesday felt her skin growing warm and swallowed. “Enid.” It was devoid of any strictness, instead leaving her in a breathless manner. 

The nuzzling continued, rhythmic and soft, until Wednesday’s eyes accidentally slipped shut. 

When she dreamt, it was different. Usually her dreams leaned towards nightmares, cruel and mysterious, just the way she liked them. But now, Wednesday found herself back in Nevermore, her body against Enid’s as they slept in what appeared to be her bed. 

It smelled like Enid, strongly, which meant she slept there often. But this was definitely… her bed. 

Yet when she sat up, their room was different. Her typewriter sat on a desk, and Enid had her colourful things around, but now they were mixed among each other in the most odd way. 

Over Wednesday’s chair sat a heinous pink hoodie, and it was more spacious and well-lit than their Nevermore room. Sconces littered the brick walls, and Wednesday’s eyes lingered on the brass logo below them. An R and an O, encased in nettles and a set of raven’s wings. 

RavensOak College. One of the more prestigious creature colleges in the country. A college that was rumoured to no longer exist and hadn’t for centuries. But Wednesday had done her research, and that was surely their logo. 

“Weds, ugh, it’s early, babe,” Enid’s voice said from beside her. 

They were in pyjamas, so Wednesday assumed this nightmare was Enid finally convincing her to do a sleepover, but then she called her-

“Babe, go back to sleep.” 

And then, to confuse the situation more, Enid rested an arm around her waist. Whilst the touch was horrifying, what was more perplexing was the thickness of this now very muscular arm that gripped her with strength. 

Before she could think to wriggle out of her hold, Wednesday found her eyes shooting open as someone entered the basement. 

Her mother. 

Chapter Text

Her mother’s eyes widened as she entered the basement, an expression most unlike her, and she immediately turned away. Just as she was registering the lack of fur, Wednesday’s hand came to rest on the bare thigh of Enid. 

Thigh. 

Human. 

Wednesday turned, just as Enid groaned about the light. “Enid?” 

Her friend registered the voice, sitting up suddenly, enough to cause Wednesday’s hand to shift to her waist. Then, Enid’s focus looked to the hand that rested on her, to Wednesday, and then to Morticia, who was facing the wall. 

“It worked,” Wednesday said. 

“Um… hi?” Enid replied, her cheeks bright red. “Do you think I could… have a blanket? Or some clothes?” 

“I will fetch you some,” Morticia said, swiftly leaving the room. 

But Wednesday hadn’t even registered the fact that Enid lacked clothes, partly because she was too emotional seeing her human form and also because nudity never struck her as peculiar. Clothes did; the fact that humans adapted to wear them partially out of modesty. 

“You are awake,” Wednesday said, her hands lifting to Enid’s face as she tilted it this way and that to check for any issues. She seemed paler, but then her gaze drifted lower, and Enid’s blush deepened. “Enid, you are…” 

“Naked, I realise.” 

Looking along her arms, she said, “No, not that, I was going to note that you have changed. Your body… You…” Muscles lined her now, a bold, strong physique having taken over her previous self. Wednesday stared at her calves, now like a Greek god’s carved out of marble, and, for once, she realised why clothing was needed. Normally, nudity bothered her not. Bodies were bodies. But the new appendage Enid had left her eyes widening as heat rose to her cheeks. “Oh.” Quickly, she stood, averting her gaze to the wall. 

Enid, who had just noticed the change herself, blurted, “Holy shit, what is that?!” in complete horror. 

“I think we both have an understanding of what that is,” Wednesday replied, her cheeks burning for perhaps the first time with heat. Was this… embarrassment? Yes, she supposed it was. Clearing her throat, she stood in front of Enid as her mother entered, but her gaze was kept to the floor as she placed the clothing down, and then she turned her back. “If you would like to dress, Enid.” 

Clearly, her mother had bought clothing for Enid, grey sweats and a pink t-shirt, because their family owned no such clothing. Wednesday opened the cage and then passed them to her, keeping her focus on the floor just as her mother had. 

Enid, however, stared at the underwear for a moment and then down at herself. “Um, Wednesday?” 

“Yes?” 

“Could we uh, order, some different underwear…” After trying to get them on, Enid gave up when they wouldn’t cover her legs. She then tried the sweatpants and the t-shirt, but Enid was slowly finding that the appendage wasn’t the only alteration. “Actually, scratch that, just a whole outfit.” 

“Are you dressed?” Wednesday asked. 

“Yeah… but…” Enid’s voice was slightly lower now. Not by much, but enough that a warm feeling seemed to encase Wednesday as she spoke. As she turned around to face the wolf, Wednesday realised why she sounded apprehensive. 

“I see.” Whilst she had got the shirt and sweats on, the baggy shirt now fit tight against her abs and biceps, and the sweatpants were at least five inches too short, Enid now towering above her. 

The warmth that Wednesday felt moments ago strengthened into the most uncomfortable heat-like sensation. “You look…” Wednesday drifted off. 

“Weird, right? Awful? Some alpha freak who-”

Wednesday grabbed her arm before she could finish. “No. Never say that. You are strange, but strange has more beauty than normality. You are strong, captivating and…” Attractive. Wednesday swallowed the word like sour bile. 

“And?” Enid prodded.

“Are you dressed?” Morticia called out, tearing their attention away from one another. 

“She is clothed, you may look,” Wednesday announced. 

As Morticia turned, she froze as she took in the girl before her. It was Enid, the same face but with a hardened jaw and firmer set cheekbones. Her hair was the same, too; those blue and pink highlights were lost, however, faded to a barely there tinge in the months since it was dyed. She was far taller, now looking down at her daughter, and her muscles were those of a statue. They were not huge but were extremely pronounced. 

Wolves should not change like this. Alphas occasionally experienced an alpha puberty, a rare second one after the initial change, but that was caused by... 

Morticia knew then, but she decided to confirm it. “Wednesday, dear. I was thinking we should send you to England to see your aunt for a month. Enid will remain here-” 

A growl left the wolf then, deep and protective as she yanked Wednesday against her. Eyes flooded with gold, and as they glowed, they pinned Morticia in place. Soul bonds were extremely rare among wolves, a form of imprint strong enough that it posed the ability to cause a second puberty in alphas, long after the initial change. 

“But I shan’t do that, because it appears you are fated,” her words carried with them both joy and wonder, finally revealing the truth she had been curious about since Wednesday arrived home. “Welcome to the family, Enid.” 

Wednesday swung around in her mate’s grip, looking for the evidence herself. When she saw it, that undeniable truth, something in her shut down. “No.” 

“No?” Enid echoed, going from confusion to hurt in a second. 

“I- I cannot. The fates are incorrect. I-” Wednesday took two steps away, but then it felt like she hit a wall. Not a metaphorical one, a literal damned wall. A gasp left her at the force of it, but then the panic in her chest began to worsen, her heart beating faster as her hands grew clammy. 

“Wednesday-” Enid called out, moving beside her. Thankfully, she made no move to touch her, lifting her hand briefly only to pull it away like it pained her to do so. “Breathe.” 

“Cannot- You- This-”

“Shh,” Enid soothed. “When I count to four, you breathe in. Then we hold for four. Then you release for four.” Her voice was sure and unwavering, commanding in a way Enid never really was. 

But Wednesday listened to each word as her lungs burned and tears stung her face. The sensation of the unknown damp on her cheeks only worsened the panic she was fighting because all of this was too much. Whatever this unknown was that she was feeling, it was burying her alive, more suffocating than the time she had been literally buried alive. Regardless, Enid counted and didn’t even flinch when Wednesday suddenly grabbed her wrists, needing to ground herself with the feeling of her mate’s skin. 

“One, two, three, four-”

The numbers blurred together as her lungs burned. Part of her screamed that she had been aware of this for a while, too afraid to act. Wednesday was no idiot, and she did not fear a thing. But for a while now, she knew that was not true. Wednesday feared, knowing that she was attached to her friend. Whilst she didn’t know they were mates, she knew that the feelings she had for Enid were exactly that: feelings of a sort. 

The night Enid fled, having dug her from her grave, Wednesday felt that shift like an abrupt twist in her gut. Something, at that moment, had broken in her like a tendon poised to snap. One could argue it had already been fraying since Enid protected her that first time from the hyde. 

And this, this longing and need for proximity and touch, was overwhelming enough that Wednesday had worked to bury it beneath the focus on freeing Enid. So, she had, but now, with her free, that truth was unravelling before her, only worsened by gold eyes that fixed upon her. 

“One, two, three, four,” Enid repeated yet again.

Crying was a most peculiar sensation. Her eyes burned, her chest ached, and her throat felt raw as she wept. Realising she was calming, Enid’s eyes softened, and her chest stopped heaving with heavy breaths caused by her worry over her mate breaking before her. She kept counting, allowing Wednesday to hold her wrists with as much strength as she could muster. 

Eventually, the tears subsided, and her breathing grew more regulated, although each breath only brought pain. 

“Good,” Enid said. “That’s good.” 

She was placating her, something that Wednesday would usually snap at, but now took comfort in. “Mrs Addams, could we have a moment, please?” 

Having seen just how instinctively Enid had taken control to care for her daughter, she didn’t hesitate before agreeing, leaving after giving a nod. 

Once gone, Wednesday let go of her wrists and shakily wiped away the tears. “Enid-”

“Not yet,” Enid replied. “Do you want to show me your torture room? You always go on about it.” As her mate stood on shaky legs, Enid moved to support her arm. “Is this okay?” 

“It is… fine.” Truthfully, the contact felt like the only thing stabilising her at that moment. Without it, Wednesday feared she might break once more. “I do not know what came over me.” 

“The torture room,” Enid repeated, dragging her mate’s mind away from the worry once more. “Do you still have the chair you used on Pugsley?” 

“Y- Yes.” 

“Awesome,” Enid replied. “Don’t get any funny ideas about using it on me.” A growl left Wednesday then, and both girls paused in their stride. “The room,” Enid reminded her, thinking it best to avoid the fact that Wednesday was showing omega traits when harm was threatened to her mate, even at her own hand. 

As they walked past Wednesday’s parents, neither of them said anything, but Enid noted the unusual display of concern on Gomez’s face and the way Morticia grabbed his arm to stop him from trying to interfere. A whisper was delivered in his ear, and as Morticia pulled away, he slumped and nodded. 

Enid understood the worry, given she felt it just as much, if not more. Seeing Wednesday crying was an event she never predicted, but as her alpha, she was affected even more. Her mate struggling like that left her with the urge to wrap her up in her arms, but she knew that would only worsen things. 

Wednesday needed touch as an omega, but her mate also needed to initiate such. She knew that doing so herself would only set Wednesday on edge or make her panic further. So, she took her somewhere known as a distraction. “It’s bigger than I thought. And there’s way more wires…” Just as her fingers reached out, Wednesday caught her hand.

“Do not touch that unless you wish to perish.” 

“Noted. Don’t touch the death wires,” Enid teased. 

“You are too calm,” Wednesday said. 

“Would you rather I lose my shit?” Enid replied, looking down at her. She moved across the room. “What's that for?” 

“I use it to grind things for poisons,” Wednesday stated. “And more recently, I have used the space for your silver dosing.” 

Enid paused. “Is that how you freed me?” 

“Partially. We used a combination of days of silver therapy, combined with a salve made of glass from a rather ancient meteor collision. It is unclear whether one was the cause for the change, or if both were.” She bit down on her cheek then, until the metallic lilt of blood met her taste buds. “How are you feeling?” 

Propping herself up against the desk, Enid gripped it with hands that Wednesday noted had grown just like the rest of her. Now she had long fingers and pronounced knuckles, a grip Wednesday would assume to be strong enough to suffocate with ease. 

Whilst Enid noticed her focus dipping to such, she never voiced it. Instead, she let Wednesday observe as she said, “I remember a fair bit from the first week, but after that, it gets spotty. I began losing myself to the wolf, and my soul leaned more towards that part of me. I ran on instinct, but the whole time, I do remember this feeling like I was searching for something.” As Wednesday looked up at her, she added, “Because we’re bonded, I think my wolf was circling back to you, but panicked when it couldn’t find your scent.” Enid pushed off the desk then and stepped closer to Wednesday. “Take them, I can feel it.” 

Without asking what she meant, Wednesday reached out and took Enid’s wrists in her grasp, finally releasing her breath. “This bond…” 

“We should talk about what is worrying you,” Enid replied. “I don’t know how much you know about bonds, but I guess if it’s not much, you could be pretty freaked out right about now.” 

“I do not wish for romance,” Wednesday admitted. “I never have; it is an asinine concept.” 

Whilst something in Enid deflated at that, she nodded. “Bonds vary with every pair. For some, it is romantic, and for others… it is more of a close friendship.” 

“A friendship?” 

“Yes. They still need proximity, but there is no romance pull there. I do not know what is happening between us or what this bond is, but bonds are not solely romantic. There are many kinds, even protective ones. I… I think I have that,” Enid swallowed. “And maybe other parts too.”  

Shifting on her feet, Wednesday nodded. “This helps.” 

“All bonds require a certain amount of proximity,” Enid stated. “It will mean some changes for us both.” 

“Changes?” 

“Wherever you go,” Enid answered. “I will have to follow.” 

“And if I were to separate from you?” Wednesday asked, tearing a warning growl from Enid’s lips. 

Covering her mouth with her palm, Enid’s cheeks flushed with mortification. “It causes the omega pain, which my wolf will grow… upset over.” 

“I am not an omega,” Wednesday seethed. 

“Wednesday-”

Anger flushed through her then at the thought of being some… submissive being. She was not owned, she was not demure, and she certainly was not submissive. “I am not an omega,” she spat. “So, I would not feel pain.” 

“You-”

Wednesday stormed off then, intent on making her way back to her room, where she would shut her mind off from this insanity. However, as she made it up the stairs, she felt it. An agonising tug in her stomach that left a pained grunt falling from her lips as she collapsed to her knees. 

“Mija,” her father called out, already heading towards her. 

But his presence didn’t stop the agony. Instead, she pushed him away, her own eyes glowing as her parents looked down at her in worry. 

That pain began to fade the moment arms swept her up. “Where is Wednesday’s room?” Enid asked. “It might help her to lie down.”

“This way,” Morticia said. 

“Thank you, Mrs Addams.” 

“Morticia is fine, Enid. Like I said, you are an Addams now.” 

“She is not an Addams,” Wednesday uttered, her eyes scrunching shut when her stomach hurt again. 

“Will you be needing anything?” Morticia asked. 

“No, everything’s chill,” Enid replied awkwardly. “Totes cool... Just taking a minute to get used to the bond.” With that, the door shut behind them, and Enid carried her towards the bed.
 

Chapter Text

“I do not need you to do this,” Wednesday said, silencing when a protective growl left Enid. If you had asked her where she would be one week ago, she certainly wouldn’t have answered in her bed, resigned to her fate as an omega, with her mate by her side, growing angered at Wednesday’s denial. 

But the truth was, Wednesday knew the moment she felt that pain in her stomach what role she played. There was no debating it now, only annoyance that this was what the fates chose for her. “I do not wish to be an omega,” Wednesday stated, clenching her hand when Enid sat on the edge of the bed, and she longed to reach for her. “I am not weak nor submissive. People quiver in my presence.” 

“Omegas are not weak,” Enid replied. “As much as some people like to judge them as such because of their heats and needs, they’re normally leaders of councils. Alphas possess physical strength, but omegas…” Enid reached out, holding her wrist there until Wednesday took it and finally stopped wriggling. “They’re smart. Omegas have an intellect unlike any other wolf, and that’s not something to be called weak,” Enid stated. “It doesn’t surprise me that’s your standing,” she added, “because you have always been smart as hell.” 

“Intelligent?” 

“A lot of wolf history is written by male alphas,” Enid stated. “Which will be what you read. It’s biased. Spend any time in a werewolf pack, and you will see that omegas are normally kept on pedestals. They lead behind the scenes, with their choices and decisions, and the alphas carry them out. In the occasional pack, they mistreat omegas, just as humans mistreat women, but it is not standard. Normally, omegas hold more power than the books give them credit for. And… you know… I think we can guess why you’re one. You’ve always been the smart one out of us. I guess I’m just…” Enid looked down at her body. “Can we go clothes shopping soon? This is kinda… not my vibe. I look like I’m hulking out.” 

“I think your new physique is a thing of beauty,” Wednesday stated, missing the way Enid’s fingers twisted in the sheets at the declaration. “But I agree, we must find you some new clothing that adheres to your current… self.” 

“I don’t know how my mum is gonna take this. She was already mega mad that I wasn’t trying to mate with a guy yet, and now I…” Enid blushed. “Have new parts that are impossible to hide, and I’m an alpha with a rare soul bond to a girl.” 

“Is your mother homophobic?” Wednesday asked. 

“She’s not… not homophobic?” Enid replied slowly, her voice rising in pitch. “It’s more she has her wolfish picket fence ideals, and this is many things that are gonna throw her dreams out of the window for me.” 

“Are…” Wednesday shook her head.

“You can ask. You’ve never been one to worry about hurting feelings,” Enid teased. 

But as Wednesday spoke, Enid realised it was not her feelings that were at risk. “Are you disappointed to be bonded to me? I suppose I can look into breaking-” This time, Enid loomed over her as she growled, her fangs glinting in the lamplight. It was a glorious sight, but that sound did something strange to Wednesday, and she found herself stroking her fingers across Enid’s temple and down past her jaw until she grew quiet again. 

“Do not mention that again,” Enid stated. “Wolves are protective of our bonds. They are etched into our soul and when threatened…” She shook her head. “A bond is never wrong, Wednesday. They are forged by emotion on each side, and by the souls of those they cling to. This bond, our bond, is a gift that I will never harm. And no, obviously, I’m not disappointed. You’re my everything. When I thought you had died that night, I had never felt anything like it. It was pure instinct and emotion, and… fear. I can’t lose you, and I never will. I will always stand between you and whatever danged you throw yourself at.” Enid frowned. “Which is too often, I’ve gotta add. We need to step back from the murder and mystery for a while, and just… be.” 

“An alpha, scared of some mystery?” Wednesday replied, loving the way it drew the girl’s fangs out. 

“Scared for her soulmate’s safety,” Enid replied. “Because you spent ages tracking me, I assume you understand that feeling too.” 

“I was not…” 

“Can’t even say it, can you?” Enid replied. Something had changed within her from the turn, and Wednesday was beginning to note that. Power radiated off her now, strength and command that felt like second nature. It left her heart picking up pace, and her scent changing to something sweet against Enid’s nose, causing the wolf to grin. “Admit it.” 

“I-”

“We can sit here all day.” 

“I admit there was a chance that I missed your presence,” Wednesday stated. 

“Was that all?” Enid asked. This time, when a tear dripped down Wednesday’s cheek, the wolf moved to sit against the head of the bed and pulled Wednesday into her arms. Whilst she would never usually initiate such contact, something in the bond had screamed that Wednesday needed it. 

And Wednesday, now in her grasp, realised she did. “Why do I find this calming?”

“New omegas can find it rougher with the emotional side,” Enid admitted. “I can feel your mood through our bond when I focus on it. With time, you’ll feel mine too. But, like I said, proximity helps a whole lot of things with bonds.” 

“You stated that you must go where I go.” Wednesday mulled those words over. “Will that not restrict what you wish to do?” 

“Yeah,” Enid hummed, and the vibrations from her chest left Wednesday leaning in closer. Giving her a moment to adjust, her chest vibrated with a content purr this time as Wednesday nestled her face against her neck until her nose was touching where Enid’s scent was strongest. “But that’s not something that bothers alphas. We’re most content at our mate’s side, ensuring their safety. And I think we both know with the situations that you get yourself into, I will probably have my paws pretty full.”

“What perfume are you wearing?” 

“That’s my scent,” Enid stated. “My pheromones are attractive to omegas, but it will be even more so for you as my mate.” 

“Mate,” Wednesday echoed, frowning. “Does that not require a bite?” 

“Traditionally, yes. But a bite is only sought with romantic bonds after a year or so,” Enid stated. “Plus, even without it, we’re already bound. If I bit you, it would just be the equivalent of wearing a ring after we were already married. It would be there to show others, rather than for us.” 

Sitting up, Wednesday looked horrified. “Marriage?” 

Rolling her eyes, Enid opened her arms. “Stop fussing. Are you coming back, or will I have to follow you on another tantrum?” 

“Tantrum?” Wednesday’s anger flew out the window when Enid smiled. “You are purposely trying to irritate me.” 

“You always were cute when you get all mad.” When Wednesday refused to return, Enid’s eyes glowed. “I need it as much as you.” 

Placing her head back against her neck, Wednesday uttered, “You shall speak a word of this to no one.” 

“Oh, believe me, I know. As far as anyone is concerned, my mate is a big, scary-”

“When did you get like this?” Wednesday replied. 

“Why, do you hate it?” 

“No.” Quite the opposite. She always found comfort with her back and forth with Enid; it brought her back to the day they first met. The competition of it, the challenge. But now Enid’s tone was teasing, mocking almost, and it left Wednesday’s cheeks flushing. “It appears the change gave you some extra… bite.” 

“Wanna circle back to how you were without me? Or we can breeze on past that and tackle-”

“I loathed it,” Wednesday admitted. “I felt like my soul had leached out of my body and been consumed by crows. It felt… hollow at times. Like I was deprived of the comfort I usually find in darkness and the macabre. With you in that form, even when I found you, I-”

“You don’t have to tell me,” Enid said. 

“I felt like I no longer knew how to function, other than focusing on changing you back. And before we found you, there was this uncomfortable feeling in my chest, and I felt as if I was being pulled. I can’t ever see you go through that again.” 

“The bond,” Enid replied. “I promise not to do that again unless it means your life.” 

“Then we stay inside whenever a moon like it is out,” Wednesday decided. “The thought of losing you to an eternal shift again makes me violently nauseous. Much like the time I accidentally ingested some of the poison I left for Pugsley.” 

A hum of agreement left the wolf. “How is Nevermore?” 

“Gone. Until it acquires funding.” 

“So, the chances of us going to college there…”

“Are slim to none,” Wednesday finished. 

“Have you applied elsewhere?” 

“I was too focused on finding you,” Wednesday admitted. “I never wavered from that.” 

“Okay, that's probably for the best. Wherever we apply now would need to be a place with mate accommodations.” 

“What are those?” 

“Basically they give us a shared room, and then try and place our classes as near to one another as possible. There’s also an allowance for us to attend one another’s classes as a pair. Even tests, I can sit with you so long as I do not help you.” 

Something inside Wednesday relaxed at the thought of that. Yet another worry fizzled away as she burrowed deeper against her mate’s neck and breathed in the all-consuming scent of sweetened spices and forest. “I will speak with my mother later.” 

They sat there in silence for the next few hours, Enid giving her mate the space to allow the bond and her thoughts to settle. It was a huge change, one Enid was processing too, but the wolf worried for her own reasons. 

Sitting there, holding Wednesday in her arms, Enid longed to kiss her. 

Desperately. 

Instead, she settled for burying her nose in Wednesday’s hair and hoping it would quell those wants. 

When dinnertime arrived, Enid hoped to hell that her alpha status would help with the nerves. It did to a degree, but she still wished to launch herself out of the nearest window when she set her eyes on her mate’s family. 

“Enid! Wonderful that you have joined us!” Morticia announced. 

It appeared that jumping out of a window was no longer an option. Instead, she kept her hand around Wednesday’s arm, a tether, keeping her mate appeased, and pulled out a chair for her. 

Gomez smiled at the action. “Was that a smile from my little tormentor?” Morticia elbowed her husband and shot him a look. “What I mean to say is, Enid, is that you seem to have changed since I saw you last!” 

Clearing her throat, Enid felt her mate’s discomfort through the bond and fought the urge to comfort her. It seemed Wednesday was freaking out just as much as she was. Regardless of the impassive face, Enid was well aware of the volume of feelings now hidden behind it. “Ugh, yeah, Mr Addams. Kinda woke up like it. Feel like I could bench press a bear.” 

“We should test that idea!” Gomez replied, his face lighting up. 

“Enid will not be doing such,” Wednesday snapped, with a slight glow to her eyes as she sensed the danger of the situation. “A bear is not distributed well either. It is not an adequate testing measure. We can test her newfound strength with weights, as opposed to something that may bite her.” 

“Alphas are fast healing,” Enid stated. 

“Do not encourage him,” came a reply. 

“Why not? Worried a wolf can’t handle a bear?” 

“The wolf could not handle digging me up from some dirt, so I think it is prudent we-”

“I think I handled that well, you’re alive, aren’t you?” 

“Yes, but in doing so you risked your life to-”

“You’re my mate. As if I would let you-”

“Do you plan on keeping me from all harm?” Wednesday countered with a scoff that was most unlike her. Regardless, she was quickly growing frustrated at her mate’s need to put her life on the line. “Even if it means sacrificing yourself yet again?” 

“Of course.” 

“The books always say alphas act before they think,” Wednesday chided. 

“And they always said omegas needed them to do so.” 

“Enid-”

“Wednesday-”

“Ahh,” Morticia said, clapping once. “Young love. Such a beautiful sight.” 

“It is not love,” Wednesday seethed, but after she spoke the words, she felt a discomfort in her stomach that left her hand reaching for Enid’s wrist. 

“Now that you’re in your human form again, what do you have planned?” Morticia asked. 

“With the whole bond thing, I kinda need to follow Wednesday and whatever she has planned. But if she’s up for it, I need to get some new clothes before we tackle… the whole life thing.” 

“There is a mall not even ten minutes from here.” 

“I abhor malls,” Wednesday stated. 

“We must all make concessions for our partners,” Morticia reminded her. “And it is always good to test one’s comfort.” 

Enid let out a happy squeal. “Shopping trip!” 

“No.” 

“Wednesday,” her mother warned. 

“Fine. But I will have it be known that I am no willing participant.” 

After they finished dinner, Morticia said, “Enid, I have readied the guest room for you.” 

“Oh, um, thanks?” Enid smiled awkwardly, but Wednesday was far worse at hiding her discomfort, and a pang of rage shot through the bond. Regardless, Enid was not in a position to change her mind on such. So, she told her wolf to shut up and make peace with it. Thankfully, it was at least the room next door to Wednesday’s.

Chapter Text

That night, as they slept apart, Enid tossed and turned restlessly. She swore several times as she shifted in the sheets, trying to get comfortable, whilst her chest felt like she was on a rollercoaster drop. 

“Will the moon not spare my ass?” Enid cursed, kicking her feet out. Her body now stood firmly over six foot, her feet draping too close to the edge of the mattress for her liking. “Stupid. Alpha. Bond.” She groaned, pulling her pillow over her face to muffle her annoyance. 

Hours later, she was still in the same position, realising there was no hope of sleep. However, then she heard it. The subtle creak of a door and the rhythmic pad of footsteps right before her own opened. Wednesday, looking far too adorable in her sleep shirt, stepped inside. 

“You can feel it too, huh?” Enid stated, sitting up against the headboard. 

“Is this normal? I cannot sleep, I cannot focus on anything but the fact that you are too far from me, and my heart is racing more so than it did when you took on the hyde.” 

“It’s normal,” Enid stated. “Some bond types require more proximity than others, especially at night when my bond wishes to protect you more than it normally would.” 

“I do not need protecting.” 

“The fact that I dug you out of a grave really doesn’t agree with that,” Enid quipped. “Are you joining me? Or are you awake enough to debate your mortality at two in the morning?” 

With a roll of her eyes, Wednesday moved closer. “Are you…” 

“I’m dressed,” Enid replied. She had on one of Wednesday’s shirts and a pair of sleep joggers that sat uncomfortably against her new anatomy. She made a note to grab some boxers and to figure out her size in guys' trousers. 

Finally, Wednesday climbed in beside her. She was awkward as she moved, halting several times before her rear could meet the mattress. “You’re warm.” 

“Wolf,” Enid replied, too tired to continue any line of questioning. “C’mere.” 

There was no fighting it. Wednesday slipped into her arms with a sigh that later turned her rigid as soon as she realised it came from herself. 

“Shopping tomorrow,” Enid mumbled. “Need, get, clothes for-” Her eyes slipped shut as she pulled Wednesday ever closer and fell asleep, the omega following her shortly after. 

Come morning, as they sat for breakfast, Enid found herself choking on her eggs as Morticia said, “Thing tells me you moved rooms last night.” 

Without batting an eyelash, Wednesday stated, “The bond would not let us sleep apart. Something which you should have considered.” 

“Not all bonds have that effect,” Morticia said, her eyes shooting to Enid. 

And Enid knew why. Usually, the need to sleep beside one another was something attributed to a romantic bond. Enid would not let herself hope, however. Bonds were different for everyone, and there was always a chance theirs was simply a different non-romantic bond. Regardless, her eyes on her made Enid cough again, reaching for a glass that shattered in her grip, sending orange juice across the table. “Oh god, I’m so sorry, I didn’t-”

“That strength is going to come in useful at the next Addams family gathering,” Gomez stated. “Do you think you could do that with a rock?” 

“Leave her be. Lurch, please could you bring us some towels?” Morticia waved him off. “I’ll see to it that you're moved to Wednesday’s room.” 

“Thank you. I promise I’ll be a complete gentleman,” Enid rambled as Wednesday’s eyes widened, and she breathed in sharply. “Not that you would have anything to worry about in the first place. Because we-”

“We will be leaving in ten minutes to acquire suitable clothing. Should I use the family card?” 

“Of course,” Morticia said. 

“Oh, no, I can-” 

Waving Enid off, Morticia stated, “Would you rather explain to your mother why you are buying a full set of new clothing?” 

Biting her tongue, Enid relented. That was a conversation she didn’t want to have anytime soon. 

...

The mall, it turned out, was as heinous as Wednesday feared it would be. It was overstimulating: the sounds of screaming kids, the smell of perfume and food wafting from shops, the overbearing fluorescent lighting that was currently responsible for the headache pounding behind her eyes. 

“I won’t be long,” Enid said. “Are you okay?” 

“Fine.” 

Although Enid agreed, she could still sense her mate’s discomfort. As such, she headed into the first clothing shop they passed. It was a skate apparel shop, filled with boards on the walls. Usually, this wasn’t Enid’s style. She liked cutesy, bright, and fun. Now, however, her wolf drew her towards different things. 

She grabbed a basket and threw in three pairs of black skate chinos, drawing Wednesday’s attention. Too preoccupied to note the change in her emotions through the bond, Enid grabbed some cropped vests and shirts, as well as some tank tops and jeans. “I don’t know what size I need anymore.” 

“Perhaps you should try some things on?” Wednesday suggested. 

“Yeah, probably a good call.” They stepped out back, and Wednesday waited outside the changing room as Enid worked out her trouser size. 

There was a lot of heavy breathing, several grunts of annoyance, and curses that were most unlike her mate. “Is all… well in there?” 

“Stupid, ass, wolf, changes,” Enid muttered to herself. “Stupid, damn, thighs, ugh!” 

“Would you like me to retrieve a bigger size?” 

“Please. And a belt!” 

After sourcing a pair of the skate chinos in a larger size and a leather belt, Wednesday passed them through the slight gap in the curtain, her breath catching when a muscular arm shot out to grab them. “Ugh, thanks!” 

Nothing could have prepared Wednesday for Enid stepping out in those trousers and a cropped vest. Everything, most fortunately or unfortunately, was on show. Her focus trailed across the pronounced curve to toned biceps, and Wednesday thought once again about the glass shattering in the wolf’s hand earlier. 

“Hey? Earth to Wednesday?” As her attention flitted up, Enid said, “It looks horrible, doesn’t it?” 

“The opposite,” Wednesday stated. 

“The opposite?” 

“You look…” Enid waited patiently as Wednesday tried to find words that wouldn’t embarrass her further. “The change was kind to you. You are a display of strength and…” 

“And?” 

“I believe the word Yoko would use is handsome.” Her cheeks flooded with a rare display of colour. “Do they fit?” 

“Yeah. I’m gonna grab some shorts and jeans too.” 

“Make sure you get enough,” Wednesday stated. “I would rather not have to venture here again soon.” 

They spent another hour in there as Enid grabbed boxers, sports bras, tops, trousers, shorts, and shoes. She even managed to find several pairs of men’s pyjamas in black and khaki green that would fit her far better than Wednesday’s. 

By the time they arrived back, and Enid had changed into some baggy jeans and a black vest top with a skate logo on the front, Wednesday felt that same clammy feeling in her hands. 

“Are you well?” Morticia asked as Enid came down the stairs. 

“Fine,” Wednesday replied, her cracking voice giving away her lie. 

Over the coming weeks, they tested Enid’s strength and abilities. Her numbers often left Wednesday’s mouth tilting up smugly, something Morticia noted silently. Yet another sign she realised leaned into a far different bond type. 

“Did you see that?” Enid called out. 

“She is marvellous,” Wednesday noted as her mate lifted the Addams’ car with ease. 

“You speak about her just like I speak about your father.” 

“Your point, Mother? Perhaps it is best not to dance around it.” 

A smile appeared on her mother’s face. “I do not need to say that which you will know with time.” 

“Must you always be so cryptic?” 

One evening, letters appeared on the dining table out of thin air. A flame danced across the table, and then envelopes appeared, right in front of their noses. The fire extinguished on its own just before smoke rose to Wednesday’s nose. She peered down at an insignia she had dreamt of not all that long ago. 

“What is that?” Enid asked. 

Opening it, Wednesday’s heart leapt. 

Dear Wednesday Addams, 

It has come to our attention that Nevermore is no longer offering a college for stranger creatures that walk among us to attend. Instead of supplying funding, RavensOak shall be expanding our current grounds and building a smaller academy in a nearby town for high school education. 

After hearing of your achievements, our school wishes to offer you and your mate a position at our college, studying your choice of subjects. We offer a variety of traditional subjects, as well as boasting a vast collection of creature studies. 

Our college caters to bond support and would be more than happy to sort an education plan that meets yours and Enid Sinclair’s needs. 

Please contact our head of admissions at the email address listed on our website. The passcode is Macabr3!H3ll. 

We look forward to seeing you both in the first semester.

Eton Pierre, head of RavensOak college. 

“It’s from RavensOak,” Enid blurted. “I thought that school was a myth.” 

“They know we are mates,” Wednesday stated, peering up. “How is that possible?” 

“Rumour has it, the head's wife is a seer of great power,” Morticia stated. “It is who picks their admissions.” 

“It’s real?” Enid asked. 

“It was always real, but elusive. So few people are invited to RavensOak, and they prefer their privacy. RavensOak students go on to do great things within society, but they are a small college that takes admissions from all over the world. Might I read it?” 

Passing the letter to her, Wednesday frowned. 

“Everything okay?” Enid asked. 

“Fine. Will they room us together?” 

A smile pulled at Enid’s lips. “Scared about being away from me?” 

“I cannot have you perishing without me,” came the reply. 

“They stated they have mate protocols. It should be all good,” Enid replied. 

“This rumoured seer,” Wednesday started, peering at her mother, “does she happen to have connections to our family? Say, a meddling mother who slipped word of her daughter and her mate to the faculty?” 

“If she did, it would have been for the best,” Morticia replied. “You both need to attend somewhere suitable to your studies and talents, who also knows how to handle your predicament. I may have told an old schoolfriend about some of my daughter’s recent academic achievements, and about her mate and the results of testing we have done.” 

“They know about my results?” Enid said. “Were they… okay?” 

“Never have they heard of a wolf like you,” Morticia supplied. “In fact, they wish to double-check our tests because they couldn’t believe your strength and hearing. Even for an alpha, it is unheard of.”

“If you could please not inflate Enid’s ego larger than it currently is,” Wednesday quipped. 

“Too late! Unheard of strength,” she repeated, smiling smugly. 

Wednesday sent out a plea that she make it through the meal with her sanity. 

Chapter Text

The day they arrived at RavensOak in the eerie family car, Wednesday was prepared to hate every second. She was not partial to people of her own age, finding them far too boisterous, and so little could be found on the college that she worried their academic standards could be atrocious. 

However, as they arrived, Wednesday felt a delightful chill run up her spine. 

“This is… cosy,” Enid stated sarcastically, opening the door for her mate. 

It was cosy- to Wednesday, at least. Enid longed for colour and brightness, but this place made Nevermore look terminally delightful. RavensOak stood, a castle made of aged stone with towering black spires. Moss lined its walls, and the paths formed of worn cobblestone wound their way towards it. 

“Are we sure that this is… it?” Enid asked. 

“Why? Is the world’s strongest alpha intimidated by gothic architecture?” 

“You’re never going to drop that, are you?” 

After Enid made a point of reminding her mate at every opportunity of her scores, Wednesday had decided to turn the tables to reclaim her power. It had worked, and now Enid winced anytime it was brought up. Lest such information go to her head. 

Over their time waiting for the semester to start, Wednesday had been realising just how much the bond as well as Enid’s shift had changed her. Whilst she wished she could say she detested it, that was untrue. Instead, Wednesday found herself ensnared by the suddenly cocky and sarcastic bravado of Enid Sinclair. 

And now, as her mate grabbed all of their things and lifted them with ease, Wednesday felt her mouth growing dry at the sight. “Do you think we get a mini fridge?” Enid asked. “God, I hope so. If I hit my first rut here, I want ice and cold drinks on tap.” 

Ignoring her words and the effect they had on her as an omega, Wednesday kept close, ensuring her knuckles brushed against Enid’s hip to appease the bond without seeming like they were together. However, as they made it past the drawbridge and to the castle itself, someone sat there swinging their familiar legs over the edge of a wall. 

“Yoko?!” Enid yelled. 

“Sinclair, and… Addams.” Her brows raised above her sunglasses. “You travelled here together?” 

“Better for our slowly dying environment,” Wednesday countered. 

“Sure,” Yoko replied sceptically. “I heard rumours that you were no longer stuck in your wolf form. Glad to see they were true, but a text would have been nice.” 

“I only just got a phone,” Enid stated. “I haven’t been back home, and so I didn’t have any-”

“Where were you staying if you haven’t been back home?” A devious smile met them then. “Ahh, I see.” 

“I am not sure what you see,” Wednesday started, “but it-”

“We should address the literal elephant in the room,” Yoko interrupted. “You seem to have grown insanely tall, and those muscles are those of a bodybuilder. Been hitting the protein?” 

“Shut up,” Enid groaned. “I experienced some… changes after being stuck in my wolf form.” 

“Clearly. Wednesday,” Yoko called. “How do you feel about the new Enid over there?” Averting her eyes, Yoko’s mouth dropped open when she saw the heat in the other girl’s cheeks. But Enid mouthed ‘stop it’ before the vampire could dig into her further. “Joking, of course. Love the new style though. The outfit is hot. You sure you’re not gay? I dated a girl over the summer who dressed exactly like that.” 

“I’m bi,” Enid stated. “And now that’s out in the open, can we address this place? It’s huge!” 

“You’re just skipping over the coming out thing?” Yoko replied. “You know what, this morning has been fucking weird, so you can have a few days before I prod you on that. Yes, and it’s even more insane inside. Super creepy, sure that Addams over there will look at it like a wet dream.” 

“You continue to repulse me as always,” Wednesday replied. “Dare I say that I… missed the irritating presence of your voice, Yoko.” 

“I’m taking that as a compliment.” 

“It was,” Wednesday admitted, taking comfort in some normalcy. “I’m going to go look at the message board. After that, if we could find our room?” 

“Sure, mind if I chat to Yoko while you go read it?” 

“No, you may stay.” 

As Wednesday walked away, Yoko’s glasses slipped down her nose. “You MAY stay? YOUR room? Bitch, spill.” 

“There’s nothing to spill.” 

“Your dyketastic makeover and the goth who was standing close to you when she loathes proximity says otherwise. As if this academy lets people choose their roommates. Believe me, we all tried. The only reason they would let that happen was if-” Yoko’s mouth snapped shut, and she peered over at Wednesday, then slowly returned her focus to her friend. 

“Don’t.” 

“Oh my god.” 

“Shut up,” Enid whispered. 

“You’re mated?” 

“Fated,” Enid corrected. “By some rare ass ancient bond, and no, it’s not romantic, but yes, it means we’re very close.” 

“Not romantic? Whilst you’re looking at her with those puppy dog eyes. Be honest, Enid. You’re like every gay trope ever. Girl falls for her straight best friend. Grumpy sunshine. Fated mates. It’s fang-achingly disgusting how you look at her.” 

“Do... Do you think she’s noticed?” 

“It’s Addams, of course not. That one guy was hitting on her the entirety of our last year, and she had zero clue.” 

“Who?” Enid’s fangs dropped at the mention, revealing her annoyance. 

“Pack your fangs in,” Yoko warned. “So, you do love her.” 

“Obviously,” Enid whispered back. “It is driving me mad. We share a bed,” she whispered. 

“WHAT?” Yoko’s yell was loud enough to draw the entire court’s gaze, including Wednesday’s. 

Waving awkwardly, Enid tried to play it off until her mate looked away. “Keep your voice down.” 

“Does Addams cuddle?” 

“I can’t answer that. She would kill me.” 

“Mates can’t kill one another,” Yoko replied. “My god, she’s a cuddler. You broke the goth.” 

“It’s the bond, okay!” 

“I thought needing to sleep beside one another was only a factor in romantic bonds,” Yoko stated. “As is the fact that your fangs dropped when I mentioned someone crushing on her. Jealousy is not present in non-romantic bond types.” 

“Yoko-”

“Interesting, isn’t it?” 

“Isn’t what?” A voice came from behind them, and then, “Who’s this-” Bianca stared on in shock as Enid turned to face her. All six foot three of her muscular self, adorned in a tank top and black chinos, paired with Doc Martens that had buckled all over them: ones that Wednesday had bought her as a starting college gift. “Huh, this is unexpected.” 

“I seem to be getting that a lot.” 

“Who’s this?” a girl wandered up behind them. She was maybe five-six, with blonde hair that cascaded down to her hips and a slight southern twang to her voice. She wore a bright pink summer dress with white tennis shoes; an outfit Enid would have loved to steal a year ago. 

“That dress is so cute,” Enid said. “Where is it from?” 

“I made it, I’m actually taking sewing classes here beside succubus studies and a wolf course.” 

“You’re a-”

“Succubus. My name is Casey. You would be?” She twirled her hair, holding a hand out that Enid took with a firm grip. 

“Enid Sin-”

“It appears our things are collecting dust out here,” Wednesday’s monotone voice announced. 

Although she appeared unbothered, Enid could have sworn she saw the brief glimmer of gold in her eyes. “Yeah,” Enid said. “I’m Enid by the way, and this is my… friend, Wednesday.” 

“Love the black,” Casey said, enthusiastically. “Everyone here is so whimsical. Normal schools were so bland.”

“Normal is bland,” Wednesday returned. “I like to treat every day as a mourning for humanity.” 

As Enid picked up the things, Casey said, “Ahh, do ya want a hand over there?” 

“Enid possesses strength unlike any other werewolf; she could have carried the car here if she wished.” For once, Wednesday wasn’t mocking Enid’s strength. She was bragging, something that left the wolf preening. As they walked, Wednesday declared, “I do not like her.” 

“Do you like anyone?” Enid countered. 

“Touché.” 

“Other than me, of course.” 

“You had coffee this morning, didn’t you?” 

“Only one or two cups,” Enid replied, bouncing on her toes as they waited to get through the main hall to claim their key. 

“What did I say about caffeine?” 

“That I do not require any more energy than I already have,” Enid replied. “But where’s the fun in that?” However, as they passed some people and Enid grabbed onto the railing, it came away slightly from the brickwork. “Shit.” 

“That is why I suggested you avoid the caffeine,” Wednesday supplied. 

“Okay, Mrs Know-it-All,” was muttered beneath her breath. 

They neared the girl behind the desk, who somehow looked less ecstatic than Wednesday. However, as her eyes drifted up, they took a sudden interest in Enid’s exposed arms. “Room number?” she asked. 

“102,” Wednesday stated. 

“I was asking her.” 

“We are sharing, so the response is still correct.” Now, Wednesday was growing irked through the bond, and once again Enid looked between her and the other girl. 

Surely, she wasn’t… jealous? 

Passing the key across, she said, “I see.” Clearly, she had now read the fact she had missed at first. 102: Bond Accommodation. “Hope you enjoy the academy.” 

Enid ended up grabbing her mate’s arm when she was set on staring the girl down and tugged her along. “What was that?” 

“Her face was irksome.” 

“Her face?” Enid replied, balancing all their belongings on her back. “Let’s just find this room before I knock someone out with a suitcase.” 

“I think a bludgeoning would only make this morning better.”

They headed up the corridor they were assigned to, and of course, Yoko’s room was the one beside theirs. “The rooms here are way bigger than normal college ones,” Yoko called out. 

Continuing up the hallway, they finally got to the next door. 

102:

Wednesday Addams

& Enid Sinclair

The words hung from the door in a serif iron sign. At least they didn’t skimp on the décor. Wednesday pushed the door open, letting her mate enter first so that she could put her things down. 

“Crap,” Enid said. 

Wednesday knew why. There was only one bed. Whilst they would only use one, they had assumed there would be two, so that if people came into their room, they didn’t have questions. But now, one bed sat there, which may as well have been a neon sign stating ‘bonded.’ “It appears we have a small issue upon our hands.” 

“I could ask them to throw in another,” Enid said. 

“No, it is fine. It leaves more room for my cello when it arrives, and your workout equipment.” Enid had taken to boxing and running as a means of working off her excess alpha energy. A fact that Wednesday secretly appreciated. There was something delightful about watching her friend beat up a still bag. 

“You’re sure?” 

“The space is welcome, even if the curiosities of our friends are not.” 

Trying to hide her smile, Enid reached for her bags. “Cool. I’ll get unpacked.” 

However, Wednesday’s attention shifted to the health centre welcome basket for mates that sat on the table. She froze, for long enough that Enid soon joined her. 

“Huh,” Enid said, her voice far too high. 

“They are efficient here; I will admit that.” She stared down at the basket that was filled with condoms, Plan B, heat pads, painkillers and more. “What are those for?” 

“Heats cause cramping, but far more severe,” Enid stated. “They must have thought you were a wolf.” 

“It appears so.” She averted her gaze elsewhere. “We will not be needing the majority of that.” 

“I’ll hide it in a cupboard,” Enid agreed. 

Once everything was away, Wednesday relaxed into the space that finally felt like theirs once more. It was just like Nevermore, a mixture of hers and Enid’s things. Although her mate strayed away from colourful clothing now, she still had some brightly coloured blankets and furnishings. 

Now, they had a small kitchen area and a bathroom of their own. There was also a small living room space, and more than enough room should Enid shift in there. 

“You okay?” Enid asked. 

“I feel the day’s changes getting to me.” 

“Figured,” Enid hummed. “I left some clothing on your bed. I’m just gonna hop in the shower.” 

They were eighteen now, Wednesday reminded herself. This was their start in adulthood, the place where they would forge their future paths. Her fingers grazed over the welcome guide as she tried to make peace with the drastic change of it all, clinging to the one constant she had. 

Later, Enid emerged, followed by a cloud of steam. “Weds, that shower is perfect. It was so hot!” Although Enid had shortened her name, Wednesday felt no need to correct her as she normally would. Instead, she felt her chest tighten as she stared up at her. “You’re smiling,” Enid said slowly, tilting her head to check she wasn’t hallucinating. It was soft, but definitely there. 

It vanished as soon as it was pointed out. “I was about to sneeze and decided against it. Are you retiring to bed now?” 

“Mhm. Are you cold?” Enid asked as she climbed in, holding her arm out. “You’re shaking.”

“Yes. I was wrong to leave the window open as we unpacked, but I preferred the breeze to the sheet of dust on the furnishings.” She moved closer, as was second nature to Wednesday now. Never once did she overthink cuddling her mate like this, so long as they were behind closed doors. Getting a reputation for public displays of affection was not something she sought, and so she ensured she kept her hands to herself in public. 

“You smell good,” Enid uttered. 

She wasn’t wearing anything, which meant her mate was talking about her scent. As such, warmth flooded through Wednesday as she hid the slightest of smiles in her neck. “Goodnight, Enid.” 

“Night, Weds.”