Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The dark gloom had settled in, not that it was ever bright around the Addam’s family home. Instead, the sky more went from a clouded grey to a pitch black as the night began. It was a sign of comfort for the one that embraced all things lurking in the shadows. However, after the events of her short school experience at Nevermore she wasn’t so sure everything twisted was to her liking.

After carefully covering her typewriter, she let out a gentle sigh.

Once again she couldn’t think of how to continue her story. The ending to her previous one was left slightly open for many possibilities to take place following the traumatic, to anyone but Wednesday, events of her previous novel.

She wanted to blame it on her family, tiring her out after her return to them. There were quite a few questions around the carnage, and although they knew she could look after herself, nearly dying wasn’t exactly something they’d hoped she’d run into so soon.

It was their concern that frustrated her.

Wednesday knew she was strong and capable but not invincible. Not that she would wish for something like that. Being mortal is what kept things exciting. Never knowing which breath may be her last.

She was comfortable with the thought of her own death in most circumstances, but deep, deep, deep down she too was concerned about those around her and their temporal being. There were far too many instances where people she had grown fond of were left fighting for their survival. Even if one of those was just a plain trick.

Wednesday didn’t like that she felt like her Mother.

Floating over to her bed she lifted herself up into it. There was no time to think while sleeping, and right now that’s what she desired. Too much had changed in such a small window of time and a few of those changes she was not ready to face.

She tugged the ebony thin blanket up until it reached the bottom of her rib cage. It looked delicate but weighed a tonne. It was her way of simulating being buried, and she got to enjoy it every night as she drifted into sleep.

In a swift motion she placed her left arm across her chest diagonally, closely followed by the right facing the opposite direction to create an X across her body.

She felt heavy.

Wanting to block everything out she finally clamped her eyes shut. It wasn’t too different from her room considering she had been only using the cloud hidden moonlight as her light. However, she was now allowing herself to quickly fall asleep.

It was not quick though. In fact, she didn’t get any further than drowsy when she heard it.

The noise came from outside her window. A loud thump, the tiles of the old house rattling from the impact.

Her immediate thought was that her Brother was trying to attempt one of his gimmicks, or perhaps her Uncle Fester had returned from another one of his particularly illegal trips.

Wanting to switch the situation around on them she slipped out from under her blanket, grabbing at her small blade that lay under her pillow for comfort as she moved. With delicate, precise movements she hid herself next to the window in the darkest part of her room.

Usually Uncle Fester would be the one to still slip by her defences but she was on high alert and preparing herself for any of his typical moves. And if it was the former, her Brother, she knew he would be no match for her even without the blade that she clung to in her hand.

Being the one to hunt was much more fun than being the one hunted. Especially when the other person thinks they’re the predator.

This thought of slight enjoyment left her mind though as the being took a step closer to her window. Its heft was much more than either of her family members. She wasn’t sure anyone in her known family was even close to having that much strength in one step.

A tile flung off the side of the house as it continued to approach the entrance to her room. There was no smash though, as the ground below instead swallowed it up.

It shouldn’t be possible for anyone not of their family to even get this close. Even if someone was daring enough to try, there were far too many obstacles to reach the home. It was hidden for a reason.

Feelings weren’t a prominent thing to Wednesday so she wasn’t quite sure what was bubbling up inside of her as she waited for the grand reveal. Perhaps excitement, perhaps confusion, or possibly even fear. Not that that was something she experienced very often, and even if she did it shouldn’t be a negative reaction.

Then its hand smacked against the window. The claws scratching the glass, and the palm smothering some kind of substance against the otherwise clean surface. It would no longer be as sparkling as it was in the moonlight last night. Someone would have to fix it later.

Wednesday held her breath so she could further disappear into her room. She didn’t want to give this beast any opportunity to take her out in a place she was incredibly familiar with. The embarrassment would kill her again.

As she stared intensely at the point of contact she noticed the extremity was becoming smaller. From a large taloned appendage to a soft, average sized, human hand.

Suddenly her body wanted to retch.

As it glided down to the bottom of the window, grabbing at the wooden framing she brandished her knife. She was unsure whether letting him in was the best way to face this monster, but Wednesday’s body felt almost frozen as she watched him move around.

More of his figure came into her line of sight as both hands tugged on the splintering wood, the effort of only a man being presented. He looked thinner than she had remembered, not that he’d ever shown himself as large, but his muscles seemed to be non-existent. He was only flesh and bone.

Still, he was able to lift the window open.

The force was too intense for the unlocked entrance and the glass nearly shattered from the impact of it hitting its peak. Luckily, or possibly unluckily, it didn’t make too much of a loud noise.

Slowly he maneuvered his body to allow one leg to cross over the frame. The sole of his foot filthy with mud or blood, most likely both, carefully pressed against the hardwood floors of Wednesday’s bedroom.

Continuing to hide in the shadows of her room she waited. Attacking him now wouldn’t be too much use. Getting one leg wasn’t enough to put down a human, let alone one that can turn into a monster.

In almost dead silence he pulled the rest of his body through the small gap. The tiniest amount of light from the hiding moon was all that helped illuminate him.

His body was bare. The only thing such a beast could wear was the blood of its victims and he wore it proud enough. It also meant any doubt was washed away from Wednesday’s mind as the scar tissue across his chest became visible.

She knew it was Tyler.

His gaze scanned the room from the corner she was facing to where she stood. It was primal and yet calculated as he took everything in. He’d paused to squint and Wednesday knew she had to act before he could.

Pushing off her feet she practically dove at Tyler’s chest, the blade letting off a small glimmer less than a second before it was close to his skin, to his thumping heart.

The motion stopped before it could be completed. Wednesday’s wrist suffocated in Tyler’s grasp as she fought to keep her hand moving. Her whole arm shook as his fingers tightened around her, preventing any further progression.

Following the initial attack, her second hand came flying out from the darkness in an attempt to rescue the dagger, but he was able to catch that one too. Both limbs trapped her in his grip.

Whatever was on his hands was now painting her wrists red.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Wednesday spat at him. Her body was still trembling as she refused to stop pushing forward. The only kind of emotion she wished to use was rage as she met his barely visible eyes.

“How the hell did you even get in here?” She asked another question with the same amount of disdain.

Using more of his strength he lowered the point where their limbs met so he could better see Wednesday’s expression. From her tone of voice and immediate action Tyler had an obvious idea of where her feelings lied. It was something he had been well prepared for, especially considering he hadn’t gotten all this way just in his human form and it was clear to see from the stains splattered across his body.

“Maybe try talking to me before trying to stab me and I can answer.” Tyler responded, still battling her determination.

Flicking her wrist Wednesday threw the blade as best she could towards Tyler, the edge just scrapping a portion of his lower chest. She knew there was not enough power in her thrust to pierce him, and it was a sloppy attempt to even harm him, but something overtook her logic whilst she felt captured.

The man winced but never faltered in his stance, his hold only becoming tighter as he dragged their hands even further down and towards Wednesday’s smaller frame. He needed to create a little more distance so they could try to have a conversation.

“I don’t mind a little pain, but could you loosen your grip a little.” She requested in a more neutral tone.

Almost immediately his hands softened, still holding her back, but no longer stopping Wednesday’s blood from flowing to the end of her appendage.

The girl’s face twitched a little at how quickly he respected her wishes even though she had just tried to stab him, and even managed to harm him.

“Could you answer my questions now? Why and how?” Wednesday emphasized the second part of her query.

Tyler’s adam's apple bobbed as he prepared to speak. “I can do a lot in my other form.” He answered the latter part first, spending more time thinking about the right wording for the former.

It was a contemplation Wednesday picked up on and she used it as an opportunity to rip herself away from his hold. A surprisingly successful move but it left her unbalanced. The cold floor met her back shortly after she began to fall.

Instantly the boy stepped forward putting his dirty arms out first to try and grab her again.

“Don’t touch me.” She commanded.

Like there was some kind of forcefield between them his movement paused. His fingers dangled in the air even though she was only a few inches away from him. He had stopped. He had listened.

Perplexed, she tried another phrase.

“Don’t move.”

Clenching down on his jaw Tyler did as she said. He suspended himself in a slightly bent over awkward position. Apart from his eyes that were still trained on her movements, he wasn’t shifting.

Using her palms to push herself back up Wednesday crept towards him. She rotated her body around so she was on her knees instead of sitting down. She stopped only a finger's length in front of his face. Their eyes were now in a staring battle as they tried to capture what they could with the sliver of light that was being given.

“Sit.” Wednesday whispered.

Tyler’s eyes blinked a few times before his body retracted away from the curved position he had been in. Just like Wednesday he placed himself back on his heels, his hands that were still covered in a thick residue gently rested against the end of his knees.

Not wanting to leave herself weaponless she swiftly stood up and plucked another small dagger from in between two books that were sitting on her shelf. The handle was barely discernible, but she knew where it was placed.

Her trust in never having too many hidden blades was greatly justified now.

“You really want me to believe you.” She had to hold herself back from scoffing and also from driving this new weapon right across his dancing throat.

“If I came here to hurt you, we wouldn’t be talking.” Tyler snapped back.

Wednesday knew the last time they’d met Tyler was physically able to win. He’d already announced himself a winner before then. His threatening speech left her both groundbreakingly betrayed and impressed. That was something she had ever felt so strongly towards a stranger.

It was practically a fact that he’d win in a battle of strength. If he had the opportunity to transform no visions or small daggers or great defence moves would be able to save her from his cold-blooded wrath.

That wasn’t the case now though. He was kneeling in front of her as a human. As Tyler. She was the one who had the upper hand, or at least the illusion.

“You know I could kill you.” She pointed the tip of the silver towards Tyler’s face. From her view it was splitting him in two.

Flicking his gaze away from Wednesday’s notion he took a deep breath. His chest rose and then collapsed, the tension in his body lessening ever so slightly. The new direction of his eyes left him staring at his muddy hands and legs. Not just muddy, bloodied.

“If that’s what you want.” He spoke softly, still keeping his head facing the ground.

“Maybe I should.” Wednesday promptly asserted. “I’m fond of morbid but serial killers might be crossing the line.” She reminded him of his appearance to the world. Not only was he dirty on the outside, but on the inside too.

She wasn’t sure if it was a chuckle or a sob or perhaps something halfway, but a noise escaped from his naked body. The position he stayed in was one of great vulnerability and his figure looked especially fragile as he remained still. It would be the perfect chance to act wrong in order to make things right.

“I don’t expect you to forgive me.” Small balls of tears started to form in the corners of his eyes. It may have been the last ounce of liquid that was left in his exhausted being.

Finally feeling a little more confident in the idea that Tyler may truly not be a threat right now she lowered the dagger to rest against her side. It was still sturdy in her grip though as any trust she’d had towards him was shattered.

“Then why are you here?” She questioned with hope for a genuine answer this time.

“Because I miss you.” He said louder than before, snapping his head back up so their eyes could meet once more. The tears that had welled up in his hazel eyes were glistening in the dark room. “We-” He began to correct himself. “-miss you.”

Wednesday was not one to really care, or to forgive, but he’d been the one to try and break those rules in the first place. She’d broken down some of the walls that kept her sane and safe, only for him to get a look at what was under her skin and rip up everything he could.

She could feel the want to throw-up building again. Her stomach twisted and turned. Even though she’d blocked out emotional responses in her mind, it seemed her physical body was taking the opportunity instead.

“You’re fucking crazy and not in fun way.” She choked out, trying to keep anything other than words down.

“I can be fun.” He nodded while speaking as if he were trying to convince himself as well as Wednesday. “I can be anything you want.” Tyler clarified.

The moon snuck out from the clouds and brightened the room even more, the light falling directly onto where Tyler was sitting obediently. Wednesday didn’t appreciate that it meant she could see Tyler’s expression more clearly. Those puppy dog eyes that had lured Wednesday in were once again gawking up at her and it made her boil.

“Drop the act.” She said deadpan.

Tyler wanted to move closer to her, he wanted to shake her by the shoulders and make her listen to him. He knew there may be no way for her to ever believe his words again, but he had to try. He chose her because he knows she’s got the intelligence and straight-forward attitude that may be able to save him.

“I’m being serious.” He settled for those words instead of moving. His body was as stiff as a rock even if he did want to try.

“Now you want to be honest?” Wednesday lifted the dagger back up from her side to point it in his face again, but this time she stepped closer to poke it against his cheek. Just enough pressure to hurt, but not enough to break the skin. “Alright, let’s be honest.” She tipped her head to one side.

This scene reminded Tyler of when she’d figured out he was the hyde. She had truly terrified him for a moment when he was pleading for someone to help him. And this time there were no chains or restraints, only commands which he was forced to obey.

“Would you have ever hurt anyone if the hyde never woke up?” Came the first question.

After opening and closing his mouth a few times Tyler stuttered. “I-I don’t know.”

Wednesday didn’t seem pleased with his response, her eyes thinning, but never actually closing.

“Did you mean it when you said it felt good to kill and hurt all those people?” She asked her second question, the words almost not coming out as clearly as usual. The moment he’d uttered those words her whole perception of him had morphed.

There was more hesitation from Tyler. It wasn’t because he wanted to be careful, he just wanted to make sure what he said was honest. Something like that isn’t particularly easy when you don’t have a clear image of self.

He finally decided on a response.

“I felt powerful.”

Wednesday could see his teary eyes harden as he pondered the question. It was that moment especially when she began to question whether she was talking to the man or the monster. She wanted to figure out whether those two were even separate entities or whether Tyler had been consumed by the beast inside of him. There was a lot of doubt still piling on her as she analysed his expressions.

“Do you hate Laurel for what she did to you?”

So soon again his eyes softened and the tears returned. There were a lot of memories flashing through Tyler’s mind at the very mention of her name. He could feel his chest rising and falling faster as he tried to reason with himself. He knew the hyde loved being awoken, being used, but the boy was hurt. The kid who just missed his Mother and wanted answers was majorly abused and tortured by a horrible woman.

He’d tried to separate himself from what she’d done in order to feel less disgusted by the fact he had to follow her. The moments were more like flashes rather than full-fledged recollections. Tyler didn’t remember how long he’d been chained to that wall; he didn’t remember how many times he’d been injected with various poisons or the amount of times he’d wake up freezing in the forest with blood dried to his chest. He just knew it happened.

“Partially.” He almost regretted saying it but being truthful meant his whole being’s reaction.

Wednesday had lifted the blade away from Tyler’s skin after seeing him switch back again so quickly. There was a battle behind those eyes and she was watching it play out in front of her.

“Did I even get to meet you or did I only ever meet a monster?” She asked, glaring at Tyler.

This appeared to be the kicker in Tyler’s mental state. The tears in his eyes bubbling up enough to finally fall down his dirt covered face.

“I don’t know who I am anymore. I don’t really remember who I was, and I can barely figure out who I am now.” Another tear fell, leaving two paths along his cheeks. He wanted to smash his head against the wall or just curl up into a ball, but he remained still. “Pain and power seemed to be the only thing I felt.” His lips quivered as he spoke. Both feeling so strong and yet weak because of his loyal form.

There were glimpses of sanity through it all, even if it was for another purpose. At least to him it wasn’t completely falsified. The mission was to become someone Wednesday could trust, but along the way he felt more than just what was required. He’d felt hurt, he’d felt happy, surprised, joyful, betrayed, appreciated.

“Until I met you.” He admitted, wanting to somehow show her it had still felt real to him.

“Here we go again with the manipulation.” Not wanting to be hurt ever again like Tyler hurt her, Wednesday denied the very words that came out of his mouth.

She began to question herself as well, and why she was bothering to ask all these questions when she knew none of it would be worthy of her approval. Not unless it fit the narrative she’d now built around the monster. The Tyler she met at the coffee shop was dead to her.

Straining his body Tyler wanted to break out of the command that held him still, but he just couldn’t. All he had were his words, and even though he was doing his best to finally be truthful he knew it was like talking to a brick wall.

He wasn’t sure Wednesday would ever consider their relationship as genuine again. Even if he was her slave.

“I am being honest. I swear on my Mother.” His voice croaked at the mention of his Mother.

Wednesday towered over this man, this boy, that had become a monster, which at first was unbeknown to him. He’d been used. She hated having to stare at how pitiful he was.

Turning her head towards the window she gestured out to her yard. The wind was cold as it blew into her room.

“I think it’s time you go home.”

Not sure if that was a command Tyler stayed still, keeping his gaze attached to her every move.

She flicked her hand to mean get out, but Tyler remained blinking up at her in confusion. His hands were still precisely placed on his lap. Truly the personification of a lost puppy.

“I’m not sure I have a home anymore.” He whimpered, no longer having any tears left to shed.

Becoming frustrated with his ignorance, whether it be intentional or legitimate, she rushed down to meet him face to face. Her free hand grabbed his chin and she darted between both of his tired eyes.

“You weren’t always a hyde Tyler. You were just a person. You were just a kid.” She said matter of factly.

A glimpse of hope sparkled in Tyler’s eyes as he wondered if she did still care for him in a non-hateful way. However much Wednesday Addams could care. And although she spoke with minimal emotion, what she said was really important to him.

He was still seen as someone.

“Listen to me Tyler. It’s pathetic that you can’t think of yourself first.” Wednesday expressed, being one that usually puts her needs above others. It wasn’t just because she was narcissistic but because it is easier to be upfront with what you want. “But if you want to pay me back for what you did, I can use you.”

She was surprised she’d gotten to this point, but feeling like he wasn’t going to leave easy, a new plan of action had to be made. It had to be one that could benefit them both in her midnight eyes.

Although Wednesday wasn’t sure she could trust him yet, she felt safer in her house than that school, or in the woods. Those places felt like Tyler’s territory. Now he was in Wednesday’s and if he truly did want to be loyal to her that would be fleshed out with time.

“You’ll let me stay?” He dipped his head more into her palm.

Not too comfortable with the action Wednesday slowly retracted her hand from the boy’s face. One of the last times they were this close and touching she wasn’t too fond of the vision she received.

Raising herself up from her squatting position she stabbed the blade into her side table before spinning back around to look at Tyler. His face was still a blur of emotion, but she had an inkling this was going to be the norm for his appearance. Especially if she now had to see him every day.

“It’s not the first time we’ve had fugitives or monsters in the Addam’s house.” She announced nonchalantly.

He wanted to reach out and hug her and bow even further than he already was at her feet. When the monster had dragged him here he wasn’t sure if there was even a chance he’d come out alive. All he knew is that he wanted to be near her, even if that meant his last moments were looking into her round eyes.

“Thank you Wednesday.” He said, body shaking from joy and possibly also the freezing cold air that had been blowing onto him this whole time.

“It’s a little strange that you haven’t moved. Get up.” She released him from his stance.

Gradually he pulled himself up to stand again, their typical height difference in place.

He took a few small steps towards Wednesday who was now leaning against the side of her bed. Her body was almost blending into the black covered room, but there was still enough light for him to see her. His arms went forward but faltered just short of her hands which he had intended to grab. Instead he used them to cover just below his abdomen.

There were boundaries and he was easily going to respect them.

“You remembered I said no touching. Good.” She gave a small nod towards the still shivering boy. “You’re going to be my faithful pet until we can fix your-” Wednesday scanned him up and down wondering if she should have asked who’s blood he was wearing before saying he could stay. “-situation.”

Tyler bowed his head down, trying not to think about what Wednesday was going to do to him next and instead worry about the now like his physical presentation.

“Do you understand?”

She slotted perfectly into her new role as a puppy owner already.

“Yes.” He responded, fighting the urge to take a knee again because it was most certainly going to be overkill.

They stared at each other for some more time. Wednesday was still making sure she was close enough to her dagger in case Tyler was just playing her for a fool, and Tyler was just trying to hold back the smile that kept attempting to cover his filthy face.

“Wednesday, darling?” Called out Morticia from the other side of the door.

“Hide.” Wednesday ordered.

In a clean motion Tyler dropped to the floor and shimmied underneath her bed.

“What is it Mother?” Wednesday asked, hopping into her bed and placing her legs underneath her covers just as she had before Tyler’s arrival.

The door to her room creaked open and slowly her Mother’s figure was revealed. The light from her small candle nearly burned Wednesday’s strained eyes after she’d been trying to see in the dark for an elongated amount of time.

“Could you keep it down a little? Your Father and I are about to begin our seance.” Her Mother requested with her gentle voice.

“I was just heading to bed.” Wednesday lied.

“Alright honey.” She said with a crimson smile, slowly beginning to close the door. Before completely clicking it shut though she spoke again. “Make sure your friend is quiet too.”

Wednesday should have known her conversation would have reached some of the household, especially since Tyler’s entrance wasn’t exactly silent. She wondered if they heard everything that was said, or whether it was just the thumping that caused an investigation.

Knowing there was no point fighting back about the presence of another being in her room, she instead used it as an opportunity to help the cold boy out. “Father wouldn’t happen to have any old clothes, would he?” She researched.

“You remind me of myself sometimes.” With a small prideful huff, Morticia finished closing the door. The ping of the lock made Wednesday’s face twitch.

“I’m nothing like you Mother.” She called after her.

After an extremely long sigh Wednesday brought herself back to reality. There was a boy under her bed and if he was being sincere he would not leave from under her bed unless told to. As tempting as it was to leave him there with her collection of spiders, she thought it best to begin his misery training after recouping. After all, who knows what it took to get here.

“Come out.”

With a fearful expression Tyler reappeared, bouncing up to his standing position with a very fluffy spider laying in the nest of his messy hair.

Wednesday removed herself from the sheets, creeping over in front of the pursed lipped boy and reaching up to grab her eight-legged friend.

“I think you need a shower too.”

Chapter Text

There was the sound of heavy footsteps ascending the old staircase, the occasional squeak of a worn step alerting Wednesday as to how close this person was. She could tell from the pressure and pace just who was about to arrive in front of her door.

The candlelight snuck underneath the crack of her door and then with a groan the requested clothing landed against Wednesday’s entryway. A small cloud of dust hovered into the air with the gentle bang, then the figure let out an echoing sneeze and the light was gone.

“Thank you.” She still called out to the other side of her door.

Sliding past Tyler, she went towards her own assortment of candles. The matches that were used to set them alight were close by and with a quick flick of her wrist she was able to get the red tip burning.

With a careful hand she angled the flame towards the black wick, the orange dancing blaze spreading quickly across to become even bigger and warmer. Pulling back the match Wednesday gently blew it out, letting the smoke swim around her until it escaped through the still open window.

Using her right hand she lifted the holder upwards, letting the light fill the room better.

As she went to turn back to Tyler she was met with his scarred chest. He’d quietly snuck up behind her and left barely any distance between them. It still respected her previous request of no touching, but she was not pleased by his sudden closeness.

“Please keep a little more space between us.” She requested, hovering her free hand just in front of his body. As if she had an invisible forcefield attached to the tips of her fingers he took a step backwards.

“Sorry I didn’t mean to frighten you.” He apologized, but there was still a slight tug at the corner of his lips.

Wednesday tried her best not to roll her eyes at the notion of him being able to tippy toe as scare worthy. It was one of her easiest moves, and certainly wasn’t used just in order to spook the individuals she did it to.

She turned her body away from him. “You’d have to do better than that.”

With a handful of steps Wednesday was at the dark wooden door that separated her space from the rest of the household. She carefully twisted the handle to get a glimpse at what had been left on the other side.

There was a nicely folded stack of clothes gracing the entrance to her room. They didn’t do much to contrast the grey-toned household, but she could see the difference in materials and height between the two.

Her right hand stretched behind her as she leant down. Although she did enjoy seeing the devastation a fire could cause, Wednesday had no intention of burning the clothes that were just delivered to her.

Wednesday’s arm cradled the soft material as she lifted it from the ground. They didn’t smell anything like her Father’s graveyard scent, but instead just old dust. She wasn’t sure where these pieces had been picked from, but they were certainly in the back of some wardrobe or the cluttered attic.

Turning back around again Tyler was still standing where she had left him. She wasn’t sure if him being so compliant was going to agitate her or give her a sense of reassurance. Being in control was something Wednesday enjoyed very much but looking at him frozen earlier and even now was making her chest heavier.

“Here.” She used the candle in her right hand to illuminate the clothing sitting in her left.

Tyler tilted forward to presumably get a better look at the rather expensive looking attire that Wednesday held. He tried to make sure his body was staying at a decent distance from her, but the curiosity made him want an understanding of what he was in for.

“There’s only one of everything.” He noted.

Wednesday shifted the candle further away from the pile in her hand once more. She hadn’t noticed that, and even if she had Wednesday didn’t think it was something to be concerned with. Especially when the current situation meant there was nothing of real warmth covering his body.

“That is plenty for now. We can look for more tomorrow.”

With an accepting huff Tyler put his discoloured arm out to try and grab the items off Wednesday.

“Hands off.” She jumped backwards so his lengthy fingers couldn’t touch the clean material. “You should bathe before attempting to put any clothes on.” Her logic rang into the room.

Feeling the hair on his arms perked up. Tyler really just wanted to wrap something around his body. While running around the forest you can at least keep yourself warm, but he had been forced to stay quite still while in the company of Wednesday with that same chilling breeze flowing against his skin.

His goose skin was something Wednesday had noticed too.

“To save you some of your remaining dignity I think you should wear one of my gowns on your way.” She pointed the candle in the direction of a black flowing gown that she nearly had worn that night. In the end she decided against it and was left wearing a pant and shirt combo that almost looked like a full body suit since the dark tones meshed together.

Tyler dramatically blinked at her. He knew he wasn’t in a situation to be too picky, but breaking gender norms was not on his list of things to experience whilst with Wednesday.

Once he no longer had a strong female figure in his life it felt like he was submerged in the masculine culture his Dad lived and breathed. The type of culture that left your son in the dark about who he could turn out to be if not cared for properly while also encouraging a bad emotional relationship that had the possibility to trigger his violent subconscious.

“Was that a command or a suggestion?” He requested clarification.

“Whichever gets you in the dress.” Wednesday quickly responded, nudging the light in the direction of the gown for emphasis. “I do not wish for my family to think I’m perverted.” She meant truthfully, but it was not the main intention of the idea.

Tyler chewed softly at his bottom lip, trying to give himself some more time before facing the truth. He knew he’d have to put it on in the end, and it was ridiculous he was even so hesitant when his body was cold he could feel his muscles tensing up.

“Fine, I'll put it on.”

Wednesday had left him plenty of room to make his way and with a sigh he moved his dirt covered feet towards the wardrobe that the gown gently swayed in front of. It was still hard to fully see every little detail that traced along the dress, especially since it was a black item hanging off a surface that was painted an even darker black.

With slightly shaky hands he tugged on the sides of the gown to free it from the coat hanger it was clinging to. The texture felt incredibly soft in his hands, even with how callused his palms and fingers had become.

He turned his body towards Wednesday, holding the dress against his figure to see if it would even be able to fit him. The ebony material stopped just past his middle thigh, the most worrying part for him now being the shoulders since he was a decent amount broader than Wednesday.

Wanting some reassurance, he glanced from the dress to Wednesday who simply gave him a nod of approval to get things moving.

Shifting his hands from the top of the gown to the bottom he opened up the hole wide enough to begin sliding the nice textile along his form. It felt tight around his arms, but it sat alright along his torso and even hovered around his legs. He almost felt bad for covering it with filth.

“Good boy.” She teased.

He dropped his gaze to the floor. The embarrassment he was feeling was on the verge of being physically painful. Even though Wednesday had a distaste towards societal norms and didn’t show her feelings in anything other than language, he still felt judged by her automatically. He knew if anyone else in his life saw him like this they’d pull a disgusted expression. His Father would be the most disturbed.

Feeling awkward about her comment, and also annoyed that this was likely the reaction she was hoping to get out of him, he blurted out a question he’d been pondering. “Does this place not have any electricity?”

“No. We just prefer to use candles where we can.” She responded, leaving some space for silence so she could hear the wick whisper.

Wednesday moved over to the exit, flicking her head towards it to indicate she needed Tyler’s help to open the door. Since there was no verbal command he let himself be swallowed by the shadows for some more time.

“Are you sure this doesn’t make you look even more perverted?” He tried to convince her to let him escape from the grip of the lovely material.

“Something is better than nothing.” She quickly retorted. “Now let's hurry up and get you to the bath.” Wednesday said whilst gesturing towards the door again but this time with the waxy burning candle.

Feeling defeated, but complying, Tyler stomped over to tug on the handle. The door swung open a little aggressively. Luckily this house was built to tolerate all kinds of shenanigans, so it didn’t even make a harsh noise as it smacked against the door-stopper.

Wednesday stepped out into the pitch-black corridor, beginning to move forward before realizing she couldn’t hear anyone else’s movements but her own. With a sudden halt she looked over her shoulder at the hesitant Tyler. His hands were holding the end of the dress lower after the wind had lifted it ever so slightly.

“I’ll be right behind you.” He commented after seeing Wednesday’s pause.

Trusting he would indeed follow her; she continued on the path that led to the upstairs bathroom. It wasn’t too far away from her bedroom which she was thankful for more now than ever as her hyde tracked behind her.

As much as she should revel in the fact Tyler was uncomfortable, she didn’t want to poke the metaphorical bear. Although he had a lot to pay for, breaking down his self-esteem wasn’t going to benefit her in the long run. Not that she’d admit it, but she didn’t even think it looked bad on him.

Taking the final turn Wednesday stopped in front of the door. Tyler’s uneven steps were still creeping up behind her but quickly he was turning another knob to let them both into the tiled room.

It was a decently large size with the bathtub placed in the middle. The candle wasn’t doing much for the enclosed dark space though and as Wednesday stepped closer to the middle of the room it left the tub looking like a boat floating along deep waters.

Quickly Tyler launched for the golden taps. He was grateful there was at least one thing that was visible in all these gloomy rooms. As his hand spun the device he began to wonder if hot was even going to be an option since Wednesday seemed to care for the cold so much.

“Will you be staying?” Tyler asked as he placed himself next to Wednesday.

She turned her head to look up at him. Recently her facial readings were getting better, but she was having a hard time distinguishing why he’d asked such a question. Using previous context clues she assumed it had something to do with being embarrassed.

“Well, I wouldn’t want to leave you in the dark.” She waved the candle around gently so as to not blow it out. “Plus, I already saw-” Her eyes scanned from his messy head of hair down to his barely visible toes. “-everything.”

Tyler’s hands began to tear the black item away from his body, making sure to not actually damage it in the process. He too wasn’t sure why he was so self-conscious when he’d woken up bare a countless number of times and had to deal with the situation. Maybe it was because he valued Wednesday’s opinion more highly than he’d like to.

“At least there was less to see with no candles.” He whined, stepping into the bath prematurely.

There was warmth. Although maybe not as scolding hot as Tyler had intended the water to be, it was definitely bringing his body temperature back up even though only his feet and ankles were surrounded by the liquid.

Carefully he lowered himself down, letting the clean substance cover his unclean body. It didn’t take too long for the water colour to shift from the clear and transparent to a light murky brown. Small chunks also flaked off of the spots that were excessively dirty.

“So, who’s blood is it?” Wednesday enquired.

Tyler didn’t want to look at her so he just stared at the still pouring tap. There were still times when he’d black out, or memories wouldn’t be so clear. This time though, he knew exactly what the hyde, what he, was doing.

“Does it matter?” He tried to avoid answering.

Wednesday snuck around the side of the tub to better line up with where Tyler’s attention was directed. He still wasn’t looking at her, but she wanted to make sure he was listening to her.

“I’d prefer you be as honest as you can going forward.” She requested, even though she was well aware her distrust of Tyler was incredibly intact.

His eyes flicked up from the golden arch to Wednesday’s blank face. “I didn’t kill anyone if that’s what you’re wondering.” There was no change, not even a tremble, in her expression. He knew he shouldn’t be surprised but he was hoping for at least something in reaction to his humanity. “The guards will just need to be hospitalized.” He finished, assuming he’d crushed the potential redemption she may have had in mind.

“Such a hero.” She muttered, leaning forward to stop the flow of water.

Tyler’s eye twitched.

“Being trapped in there was driving us crazy.” He spoke through his teeth.

There was that ‘us’ that made Wednesday intrigued by his consciousness. From the sounds of things there may already be improvement if Tyler was being genuine about not murdering anyone else. A hyde was full of anger and passion to destroy. If Tyler was able to reel the monster in then there was definitely potential at reforming this serial killer.

“You’re not one to talk either. I saw how excited you were at the Rave’n when the red paint rained down on us.” Tyler brought up the event that had Wednesday feeling closer to the presumed normal boy. The delight he had on his face as she danced with him was not something she’d usually enjoy, but it comforted her slightly. Being liked was foreign to Wednesday, or at least she usually missed the signals.

She wasn’t sure if she could have stayed with the Tyler she thought she knew. That character was too good, too average, for someone like Wednesday. Perhaps though that’s why she was drawn to him.

“Part of your training will be achieving no incidents involving blood.” She brought herself back to the moment and back to the Tyler that was real. This guy soaking in her family tub, tainting it with remnants of destruction, was the only Tyler. As much as she wanted to spend more time with the sweet boy she’d met at the local cafe Wednesday knew he was gone. “I think your hands are dirty enough for the time being.”

Tyler closed his eyes, trying to hold in the tears that threatened to escape.

“Whatever you desire.” He tried to keep his voice clear, but it wavered.

He shifted his legs upwards, allowing his upper body to slowly sink below the water's surface. The sound of his own being was painfully loud under the water, but it made everything else muffled.

Tyler began to wonder if it was even worth it coming here. He knew the hyde believed in being close to one's master, but who was he to force this onto Wednesday. She never asked to be the obsession of a demented creature, of him.

If he truly liked her then he’d get as far away from her as possible. Although his integration with the beast was getting better, he knew he was a ticking time bomb. Trauma woke the hyde, and he had plenty of it crawling around in his mind.

The pain he’d been through to even just get the hyde to wake up was enough to feed most people's nightmares. Then there were the things he did while he didn’t have control. All the blood he’d find on his hands.

Worst of all though, was the harm he caused while being aware. He’d tried to let go of his empathy in order to get the job done, but he could still picture all their faces, their cries, their tears.

The power trip made him less Tyler.

He could hear Wednesday’s voice saying something as he let himself drown. It was too muted for him to hear, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to listen anymore. He just wanted to float.

“Tyler. Bring your head back up.” Wednesday demanded, dropping the pile of clothes against the hard floor. “Tyler.” She called out again after no response, her voice louder than the hushed pitch they’d been chatting in. Yet he remained under the cloudy water.

Her body came crashing against the tub as her left-hand dove in. Twisting her hand in his wet hair she heaved him upwards, the boy gasping as his body was met with the air.

Leaving the candle to sit next to her she used both hands to hold him up, the right moving underneath his shoulder. She needed both as his body was heavy as it attempted to return to the water.

“Giving up is not an option.” She tried to speak in her normal monotone, but her voice hitched a little.

“I’m dangerous.” He croaked, eyes still squeezed closed and body trying to remain limp.

“The only way you’re going to die is at my hands. Are we clear?” Wednesday said quickly, trying not to stumble up on her words again as this was another rule she was putting into place, and she knew it had to be clear.

Fluttering his eyelashes to look at Wednesday, he almost smiled. There it was. A crease had made its way onto her forehead as she struggled to hold him up.

“Careful people might start thinking you care.” He teased, sitting up in the bathtub again so she no longer had to hold onto him.

It didn’t take long for her to remove her hands from his body. Touch wasn’t something she was too fond of in basically any scenario. She also didn’t want him getting any ideas about their relationship improving after everything. In her mind there wasn’t even something to call a relationship.

This was going to be an experiment.

“I think you’ve been in there long enough.” Wednesday announced. Her hand moved for the plug that sat in between his two legs, the drain beginning to swallow up the dirty water rapidly as soon as she plucked it out.

Her hands hovered in front of her as she rose back up from the floor to head for a device to help her clean her own hands and then Tyler’s completely wet self. Morticia was fond of staying clean and beautiful which meant there were always freshly washed towels around every bathroom. It was something Wednesday was thankful for in such a random scenario such as the one she was presently in.

Picking up two towels from the neatly rolled up pile she firstly dried her hands. That water was far from clean, but at least it seemed to get rid of some of the extra mud Tyler had left on her earlier after grabbing her wrists.

“A black towel? I shouldn’t be surprised.” Tyler commented as Wednesday threw it at his face.

She tried to keep her eyes averted as he stood up again, but she did get a glimpse of his body which was much fresher than before, even if there were no body soaps involved.

Moving along the tub back to the abandoned items provided for Tyler she squatted down to pick them up. Luckily they hadn’t gotten wet during that little ordeal.

“Here. Get into the clothes.” She ordered, using one hand to cover her eyes and the other to put the pile out in front of her body.

The weight in her hand shifted and she knew Tyler had taken them from her. She wasn’t even sure why she had a blockade in front of her gaze now when she had already seen everything.

As she convinced herself to unblock her own eyes the shuffling of Tyler getting dressed was mixing with the powerful suction of the drain. She hoped the noise wasn’t too loud as she didn’t want to draw anymore unwanted attention.

Once her eyes had adjusted she could see Tyler was already half dressed. The lower half of his body was covered and with his back to her all she could see was his skin. He had raised the top over his head and just before he was fully clothed she saw the small lines that littered his back. They weren’t so easy to notice in the dark, but now that he was so close to the light, they were easier to see.

It would be easy for her to guess how he’d ended up with those. Possibly some from his fight with Enid, others from whatever nonsense he got up to as a hyde, and the thinnest ones from Laurel.

Tyler spun around to face Wednesday, his hands raised at his sides as if he were saying ‘surprise’, but he didn’t say that. He just gestured towards the black silky pyjamas that had been given to him.

“This usually isn’t my style but what do you think?” He finally asked.

Wednesday tried not to give him the attention he was after by instead grabbing her now worn gown off of the floor. She was really hoping it hadn’t been stretched too badly since it was a favourite of hers.

“You look terrible.” She still responded whilst snapping back up, not actually looking at the boy as she did so.

Continuing giving him the cold shoulder she walked towards the door, waiting just as she reached it, hand curled around the door handle. “Grab the candle and let’s head back to my room.” Came the command.

They walked in silence back to her bedroom. She wasn’t doing it just to be polite to the other members of the household, but also because she was still partially in shock. The thoughts of why Tyler, who had broken out of custody to arrive at her window, suddenly was trying to harm himself swam around in her calculating mind.

Drowning wasn’t the most peaceful sensation one could go through; she would know from the way her brother would wriggle around as she held his head underwater. It was a punishment she’d learnt to deal out well. From the way she’d lifted up Tyler’s relaxed body though, there was no passion to survive.

The door clicked behind Wednesday and Tyler stood just in front of the entrance. His head was considerably close to the height of the frame, and if he were to monster out, there was a very high likelihood that he would smack himself. The room itself was tall though and the corners were hard to see clearly, making it look even larger than it was.

“So, am I sleeping with the spiders?” He asked, worried that Wednesday would simply say yes.

Placing the now shorter candle down on her bedside table Wednesday considered the options for Tyler. He could just end up in one of their many spare rooms usually reserved for when family was in town, but she didn’t want anyone else to run into him until she’d formally made him an introduction. From the interaction earlier with her many legged friends too she knew that wouldn’t be kind on them.

“You may sleep at the end of my bed. I’m sure you haven’t slept on one for a while.” She offered as she reached upwards to shut the still open window, not wanting to look at him and his most likely happy expression.

Wednesday actually didn’t know where Tyler was being held, all she knew was what Enid had told her. The self-proclaimed queen of gossip had informed Wednesday of the progression of Tyler’s case and how he’d have to end up in a specialized cell to avoid any chances of escape. That information had been one of attempted comfort knowing how things ended between them.

Yet here he was in her bedroom.

“Are you sure?” He asked, fingers fumbling together at the suggestion.

“As long as you remain still there should be no issue.” Wednesday spoke whilst climbing up onto her usual preferred side of the bed.

She couldn’t recall ever inviting someone into her own space like this. It made Wednesday frustrated with herself. Her pity was so overpowering it was breaking usual customs that not even some of the people she thought fondly of could get past. Tyler was absolutely nowhere near the highest peak of her exceptions list after he betrayed her and still, he was lifting up the edge of her blanket.

“I’ll try my best.” He meant with full honesty as he tried to not disrupt the portion of the weighted cover Wednesday had placed on herself.

With an immense amount of caution he placed himself on the hard mattress. It was certainly not the kind of bed he’d like to have, but it matched the stone faced Wednesday perfectly in his mind.

Tyler tried to curl himself up as tightly as he could so he took up minimal space on the queen sized bed. Even with how rocky it felt, it was much better than the bark or the concrete flooring he’d adjusted to after being arrested.

Once he was settled on the bed Wednesday leaned over to blow out the burning flame, leaving them both in the same light as when Tyler had first broken in. How things had so rapidly progressed leading to this point.

Quickly the extremely tired boy fell asleep, the tension that naturally stayed in his conscious form loosening. Wednesday could feel the switch happen as his space diagonally from her slightly increased.

There was a monster in her bed.

Growing up Wednesday had always wanted to make acquaintances with the creature under her bed since she felt they may understand each other well. The sad truth she came to find was that those stories were mainly falsified or not up to her expectations. Only once, excluding her family members, had there actually been a living thing hiding underneath her and it was barely bigger than her own child-sized hand.

The original hairy spider had become more of a pet than an acquaintance. Through her lifetime it had grown up and shared the small space with many generations of its children until peacefully passing away. The arachnid had left behind a legacy that she helped feed and grow.

Even with her eyes gently shut Wednesday couldn’t get her mind to follow suit. So many thoughts, theories and questions danced around. The thing that dawned on her the most was that Tyler could have just been tricking her this whole time, deceiving her just as he had during the majority of their encounters.

Her dark eyes decided then to instead stay open to prevent any incidents. His back was facing the window so it was hard to see the placement of his face, but she stared as best she could to make sure any details wouldn’t be missed. Not one blink was going to slip past her defences.

Wednesday had hoped Tyler hadn’t noticed her placing her pillow dagger back where it belonged, she now had its handle back in her grasp. Sleeping on her side wasn’t very common for Wednesday but the position wasn’t that uncomfortable for her. It meant she could track him and stay vigilant.

A few hours had passed and just like Tyler had said, he had not yet moved more than an inch. She wanted to blame it on his exhaustion, but if his sleeping body had the ability to resonate with the promises he had made to his master whilst awake, that was incredibly intriguing to her.

The world of the hyde continued to pique her interest.

It seemed like the tiredness was hitting Wednesday now too after such a blood pumping interruption sizzled out into boring nothingness. Her eyelids threatened to close, fluttering as she held onto her surrounding awareness.

A slow motion began to occur on Tyler’s expression that snapped her attention back. His whole face gradually scrunched up creating a network of creases. Then came the subtle motion of his dry lips opening and closing.

Wednesday clenched her jaw shut, holding onto the blade a little tighter.

At first it was an assortment of random noises being mumbled, but the small groans and attempted words became fully forged as Tyler whispered. “Why are you doing this to me?” His brow was now shaking and his muscles became strained. The small part of the blanket he held onto was engulfed in his large hand, knuckles going white. “No please.” He kicked at the weighted cover.

Wednesday sat up abruptly. She could hear her heart speeding up as she continued watching the boy wriggle around. Sweat was forming on his temple as he fought whatever demons were tormenting his mind.

“Please.” He whimpered again.

Against her better judgment Wednesday slipped off the bed and got closer to him. The monster had the potential to awaken any moment, especially considering the physical movements Tyler was making. They were getting more and more aggressive as his body thrashed around.

“Tyler, wake up.” She said softly, hovering her knife-free palm over his forehead.

With his eyes still shut he moved his eyeballs in the direction of her voice, an arm quickly shooting out from under the blanket to grab at her wrist. His hold was so intense she swore he was on the verge of breaking her bone.

“Tyler.” Wednesday tried to keep her tone stable as pain shot up her arm. She lined the dagger up in case he didn’t wake.

That seemed to break him out of the nightmare he was experiencing. His gaze fell straight onto the tight grip he had on Wednesday as soon as he came to and seconds later he was on the other side of the bed now holding his own hand hostage.

“Did I hurt you?” He asked, panicked.

Wednesday hid both her hands behind her back so he couldn’t see them. The one he’d latched onto was shaking and the other holding the blade was moving around even more as she dealt with the pain.

“You were squirming around. I thought I asked you to stay still.” She diverted from his question.

Tyler released his own hand so he could bury his face into it instead, the tips of his nails reaching up to dig into his scalp. He couldn’t believe he’d already almost hurt her after such a short amount of time. After all the selfless work she’d done to accept him into her home.

“I think it’s best I just go to another room or maybe return to the floor.” He tried to get off of the bed, and head towards the window whilst still keeping his head in his own hand. Considering if he should take the chance to just run.

“Take the bed.” She offered him once more, nodding her head towards the shuffled blankets. “I am far too awake to get any sleep.” Wednesday gave a half truth, her current adrenaline definitely not being easy to sleep through, but just seconds before her body was once again on the verge of rest.

Tyler pressed his sweaty back against the wall, the very early morning light beginning to creep through the glass frame that sat next to him. It was barely bright at all, but it let them both know roughly what time it was.

“I’m sorry.” He spoke into his palm. “So stupid.” The hand lifted away from his face, only to promptly smack back against it.

“No more of that either.” Wednesday ordered sternly.

Lowering the limbs that blocked his view of her, he connected their eyes again. This girl who had been so selfish back in Jericho was now being so considerate. She of all people knew how much he deserved to be hurt for what he’d done. Even if it wasn’t all under his control, he was the weapon that caused the chaos.

Tyler wondered who was this Wednesday Addam’s that didn’t pleasantly watch him suffer. The only explanation he had for now was that she only wanted it done by her vengeful hand, because as much as he wished it was because she still had feelings for him, he knew that ship had sailed and sunk.

“You have a lot of rules.”

“I’m not sure why you’d expect anything less. I was ordering you around before you were forced to listen.” Wednesday spoke truthfully, slowly moving around the bed to instead get close to her desk and Tyler.

She still made sure he couldn’t see her arms.

“I didn’t dislike spending all of that time with you Wednesday.” Tyler also spoke his truth, still pressing himself against the wall to keep their bodies distanced.

“Go back to sleep.” She deferred. “That’s an order.”

Obediently Tyler dragged himself back over to the end of the bed where he had been peacefully sleeping until the nightmares hit. They were relatively frequent in the boy’s sleeping schedule, but usually there was no one there trying to shake him awake when they played in his mind.

Although he didn’t really feel like sleeping either, his body felt heavy as he pulled the blanket back up to cover his lower half. Her command was making him actually fall back to sleep, quickly too.

Wednesday sat at her desk chair and watched as Tyler knocked out. He looked so soft and innocent with his eyes closed like that, cheeks lightly flushed. However, she kept herself away as what she just learnt was that he was still dangerous whilst unconscious. Maybe even more so than when awake.

Once she knew he was truly not going to open his pleading eyes again, she brought the hands out from behind her back. Unsurprisingly the part Tyler had clung onto was swollen and ever so slowly marking her pale skin.

What was she doing?

Chapter Text

The sun tried its best to peek through the dense clouds that consumed the Addam’s residence. Its beams were barely able to reach the black mansion, but there was enough illumination to alert the family that dusk was well over as the day began.

Wednesday never used to let the hot ball of gas decide her schedule but ever since she began attending schooling outside of her own home it had its grasp over her. Even though she had barely gotten a wink of rest, her body was trying to prepare itself for motion.

She gave the resting Tyler one last glance before standing up from the chair she’d been watching him from. His peaceful expression helped calm her stressing heart, but she could still feel her damaged hand gently shaking.

With cautious steps she floated around the room, grabbing a variety of clothing items so she too could properly get cleaned up. She made sure to grab something with long sleeves to avoid the extra intrusive questions she knew she’d receive from her family. There was already going to be plenty on her plate all originating from the monster sleeping in her bed.

Her pain free wrist twisted on the handle to escape from her own bedroom. Taking only one step out, she looked back over her shoulder at him. His body was tucked cosy under the weighted blanket, his head of caramel hair messily positioned as he rested on the curve of his own arm.

Dropping her eyes away from the hazard she carefully clicked the door closed. A long sigh that spanned the length of her body was liberated. Exhaustion was a challenge she was willing to beat, but this felt twice as heavy compared to her usual misery.

Not wanting to leave Tyler alone for too long she shifted over to the bathroom, deciding a shower was going to suit her better than a bath. A cold shower was also supposed to be good for one's body, and she needed all the help she could get.

Opening up the bathroom she immediately noticed the mess they had left behind. The misty light from outside helped brighten the room better than the candle had last night, making the large footprints and small pool of water easier to see.

She’d have to quickly clean this up herself before showering.

Searching through the shelves she looked for a cloth and some form of disinfectant. She wanted to make sure it came off so cleanly that no one could even tell he’d been stomping around in here. Also, who knows what was stuck to his filthy feet.

Collecting a few bottles and a slightly used cloth she got to work, spraying the area aggressively with a concoction of chemicals before scrubbing as if her life depended on it. Luckily it came off relatively easy.

As she finished up with the floor, she realized someone must have already gone over the hard flooring that trailed the halls since not a trace of dirt was in sight on her way here. She’d have to thank Lurch later for that and the delivery of clothing.

Finally able to get into the shower, she tiptoed over. The time it took to clean was adding to her limited assigned space. She knew no one would go snooping into her room unless they wanted to be missing a finger afterwards, but she wasn’t so sure Tyler would be smart enough to stay put if he noticed her missing.

The cold water rushed out of the squeaky showerhead, drenching Wednesday, who already had a similar body temperature. The pressure was high enough that it felt like tiny needles were trying to pierce through her skin, and it did make her feel a little better.

Lifting her arm up to inspect the damage done by unconscious Tyler, she saw the bruise had fully formed to make a deep purple shade. There were gaps in between the markings where the tint was a little lighter, which she presumed were the spaces in between his long fingers. Still, the colour covered nearly a third of her forearm.

Tilting her head up Wednesday let the water hit her in the face. She had a lot to consider after accepting Tyler’s request. Those thoughts included wondering if kicking him out now was the right decision or if pushing him so far he wanted to leave on his own was the real solution. Either way having him around was going to give her a headache.

Wednesday rubbed the unscented body wash harshly into her skin, making sure it really was doing its duty of making her clean. It’s not that she felt dirty with Tyler around, but something was just irritating her right underneath her thin flesh.

Promptly turning off the spray, she rushed to get herself back into her room. The towels fabric itched her slightly as she brushed it across her damp self to collect any drops of water. There was no way she could dry her hair in time, but she had to at least make sure her clothes weren’t going to stick to her body in an unflattering way.

If she wanted to be in wet clothing, she’d much prefer it be underneath the storming sky or perhaps the body of her enemies.

Tugging on the stockings and dress she’d picked out, her feet turned towards the exit. She’d have to quickly drop her dirty attire on her way back, but it shouldn’t have been too long for anything to go horrendously wrong.

Closing the door behind her she gracefully sped to the laundry, pushing the next entrance open only enough to throw her items into the pile of black that was turning into a tower. She’d have to mention that to Lurch.

As if the gloomy figure could read minds, a tall man stood behind Wednesday. She nearly ran into him whilst trying to hurry back to her room. The top of her soaked hair only stood at the middle of his torso as he towered over her.

“Thank you for your help earlier.” Wednesday gave a small nod of appreciation. “If you could begin on the washing, I would be grateful.” She addressed the situation she was just thinking about.

With a grunt of acceptance, the being stepped past Wednesday slowly to get to the laundry. His pace was making her feel even more rushed.

Nearly turning her steps into a jog, she continued on her path. There wasn’t a great distance between where she was now and her room, but there was a churning in her stomach again saying there was something to worry about.

As her door came into view she noticed it was no longer closed, rather a small gap was leaving it ajar. A shiver ran along her spine as she wondered what had possibly happened during the small period she wasn’t present.

Taking larger gallops than before, she rushed over. In barely any time she clung onto the side of the door, swinging it the rest of the way open to assess the damage that had been done.

To her surprise Tyler was still calmly resting, his body relaxed.

Looking around the room she then found the culprit. The hand was dragging the sharp weapon across her bed, creeping closer and closer to Tyler. Thing was on a mission it seemed like, and a sinister one at that.

“When did you get in here?” She questioned, keeping her voice low so as to not disturb Tyler.

Noticing it had been caught, Thing proceeded to communicate with Wednesday, letting go of the dagger. Doing a series of twists, turns, and taps it expressed its worries about not only a person being in Wednesday’s bed, but a dangerous person.

“He’s staying here for a little while.” Wednesday tried to calmly say whilst getting closer to the bed.

Offended by the notion of letting a serial killer, one not part of the family, into the house, Thing started moving again. This time its movements were even more stern and almost trembling from the passion in its palm.

“Don’t gesture at me like that.” Wednesday requested in a still quiet voice, now close enough to crouch down and rest her chin against the mattress on her bed. “It’s complicated.” She spoke with a small hitch in her tone.

Rustling came from beside her, and she instantly faced the direction of the noise. It seemed she may have been a little too loud because Tyler was slowly pushing his body up from the bed to a sitting position. His eyes were still partly closed as he gave her a small smile as a greeting.

“I didn’t know you were one to talk to yourself, but I guess I’m not surprised.” He said in a groggy voice with his arms stretching upwards.

The clothing that he’d been given was all creased from his small movements whilst resting, but the black shade complimented his skin. He was usually covering himself with various colours so Wednesday was intrigued at being able to experience him in something she had more of a preference towards.

“I wasn’t talking to myself.” She corrected him, trying not to focus too much on his appearance.

Whilst Wednesday had been turned away from it, Thing had clutched the blade again and swung it so the point was facing Tyler. There was still some distance before the hand would be able to strike, but it was determined.

“Woah, why does it have a knife?” Tyler’s morning daze snapped to perfect clarity as he pointed it out.

Wednesday flicked her head back to Thing who was almost tripping over the weapon. It was hard for a hand to flawlessly push itself along whilst also holding onto a weapon longer than its own size.

“Thing, I understand you’re upset. His master stabbed you.” She put her own hand out to block the space in between Tyler’s feet and the tip of the knife. “I’ll explain everything later and he will pay for the part he played in your attempted murder, I assure you.” She spoke with absolute honesty.

It seemed to be enough to calm Thing down as it dropped the knife back against her bed.

Tyler pieced things together whilst darting between the two beings in front of him. That hand had broken into his room before and had quite the personality as he recalled. He hadn’t realized it had been hurt by Laurel though, which wasn’t too surprising, she only ever told him parts of their movements instead of the whole picture.

“That’s comforting.” He said sarcastically.

Wednesday’s open hand slowly balled up into a fist, her already pale knuckles turning even lighter. The way she expressed whatever feelings she may endure was getting more obvious and powerful, which she did not appreciate when trying to set an example of emotional control.

“I wish I’d gotten more time with her. She didn’t suffer nearly as much as I wanted.” Wednesday admitted, trying to loosen her fingers and keep her mind clear.

Confusion was all Tyler could feel. He loathed that woman for what she did to him looking back, but it all felt so different when she’d whisper her wicked plans to him in private. The monster was feeding off of it though and so it remained obedient. The darkest side of him enjoyed what she’d made him do, but the sensible boy knew the truth of her actions.

“You were the one that killed her?” He asked, the hint at a smile he’d had before completely wiped from his face.

Realizing Tyler wasn’t present when the big conclusion happened, Wednesday wanted to revel in her accomplishment. Although Laurel's passing should have been slower, as per her promise to Thing, she was proud of the revenge she had enacted.

“Of course.” Wednesday gave a small shrug as she lifted herself back up to stand. “The reports say she got caught up in the situation trying to help the students and ended up burning in the fire.” She tried not to roll her eyes at the idea of such an awful woman being branded a hero. It would have been more admirable to go down as the villain in Wednesday’s mind. “I broke her legs before setting her alight.” She finished nonchalantly.

Tyler tried not to picture the scene in case it awoke something within the hyde, but just imagining Laurel on the floor crawling away from a vengeful Wednesday made his human side almost giddy. He of all people knew how much Laurel deserved to be punished, and who better than the target of her schemes to get the job done.

Just looking up at Wednesday now he could visualize the way she must have looked. Pale skin covered in a red so dark it looked black, the hint of anger in her expression that would make her eyes thin and the mystery device that she would use to crush the woman’s legs. One hit, two.

The person he saw before him right now though was nothing like that. This Wednesday was frustratingly patient and accepting, her dark eyes not holding, or at least not presenting, a specific feeling behind them.

“I guess we’re more alike than I realized.”

Blood was painting them both a gorgeous maroon.

Noticing how entranced Tyler was with Wednesday, she began to feel the small hairs on her body standing up. Staring at people was something she excelled at, but having that same intensity placed on her was causing another physical reaction.

Spinning around she broke the contact between Tyler’s hazel eyes and her blank face. Wednesday was busy pondering if she had made people have similar responses to the one she had now. The girl struggled to decipher her thoughts on the matter, but she did know one thing.

Being the hunter was always more fun than being the prey.

She also wondered if this kind of talk would encourage similar acts of violence on his side. After all it was the monster who followed the master. The difference Wednesday hoped was true is that she only really hurt those that deserved it.

Wednesday cleared her throat, still leaving her back towards Tyler and the bed. “If you’re going to continue staying here you should probably meet my family. I’d rather your first encounter be while in my presence.” She vocalized her intentions of their next steps after this random arrangement was agreed upon.

Beginning his escape from the bed he’d slept on so calmly, after the wrist incident, Tyler carefully planted his feet on the chilly floor of Wednesday’s bedroom. Things were beginning to feel a little more real to the police custody escapee.

“How many members of your family are there exactly?” He questioned in order to mentally prepare himself.

Wednesday’s gaze was trained on the black wallpaper, but she could feel Tyler’s presence behind her and that left her body on alert. It was true that if he wanted to kill her, she should be dead by now, but something about his closeness was making her uneasy.

The girl turned herself around again, feeling it was better to face someone directly when intimidated by their presence. It left less chances for one to get the better of her. Unfortunately for her, he already had one up on her in that regard.

“At the moment there should be four others excluding myself and Thing.” She gestured towards the hand that was feeling a little excluded from their moment.

Tyler had actually forgotten all about the hand after getting caught up in his own head. Even after the being had made an attempt on his life, he had just gotten so lost in the abyss that is Wednesday.

He gave a quick pressed lipped smile at Thing, feeling his introduction to the family may have already been tainted.

“That doesn’t sound like a lot considering how big this place is.” He flicked his attention back to Wednesday, trying not to get too engrossed he zoned out a potential threat again.

Wednesday’s attention was drawn to the picture the family had gotten done the last time they were all together. From this distance it was hard to see everyone, but there was a very large number of bodies all together in the one frame.

“The family loves to host get-togethers here. There shouldn’t be one for another while though.” She felt slightly relieved just remembering that.

Contrary to this situation she’d gotten into, having her own space was something she enjoyed. That kind of loneliness was hard to achieve when every few minutes some new relative would suddenly appear and need to be acknowledged. It really took away from her time to think and by the end of their trip she had murder on her mind.

“Got it.” The boy’s shoulders lowered a little.

Tyler tried not to think about whether she was implying he wouldn’t be around long enough to see one of these reunions, or whether she was just trying to reassure him that it was not something to be concerned over at this point.

Still trained to the image of her family, Tyler stepped in front of her line of sight. He was still drowning in slightly oversized clothing that had been provided from the girl’s Father’s ancient collection.

“Was there something that isn’t sleepwear I could put on for a better introduction?” He asked, although not hopeful considering he was just asking for more from Wednesday and the family without bringing anything to the table himself as of yet.

Tyler hoped he could be of use to Wednesday because that’s all that was currently giving him purpose.

“Considering I need to ask my Father for more clothing, I think you’ll be stuck in that.” Wednesday confirmed the boy’s thoughts about getting new items of clothing.

Giving a small tug on the smooth fabric Tyler wasn’t too disappointed. He knew the material must be high quality because he felt just rich wearing it over his body. Also, he’d seen the size of the residence before sneaking in and it was made absolutely clear that Wednesday’s family were well off.

“Better than a dress or being naked at least.” He thought about how much worse things could be if he was stuck in Wednesday’s tight clothing.

Thing did a small flip on the bed behind the two people who once again weren’t really acknowledging its presence. There was really a lot that Wednesday needed to go over with it after that little slice of information.

There was no comment Wednesday wished to make about Tyler’s fashion since his arrival. The blood of your enemies was something she could only dream of wearing so confidently, but any compliments regarding that she knew would lead to a strange conversation she was not willing to have right now.

“I expect they’ll be waiting to meet you soon.” She spoke while glancing at the level of light that crept in through the window.

The panic bells started ringing in Tyler’s mind. Dealing with Wednesday required his intense attention so he could make sure he was reading her right, and if these members of her family were anything like her, he wasn’t sure how well he was going to keep up.

“Is there anything I should know beforehand?” He hoped for some kind of advice or hint towards what to expect.

Thing jumped off of the bed to sneak ahead of them, still doing his duty of helping out Wednesday’s parents as well as her. Originally it had only been in Wednesday’s room because Morticia had made the request to make sure everything was okay. Which ended up with Thing recognising Tyler and trying their hand at revenge.

Slipping through the small crack that still opened up Wednesday’s bedroom to the hallway, Thing made its way to where Morticia had been waiting. It had to warn them of the potential threat lurking in their only daughter’s room.

“We don’t have enough time for me to go over everything.” Wednesday let out with a small sigh, giving Tyler basically nothing.

The worry grew a little more. Tyler thought Wednesday was definitely the kind of character that would be hard to encapsulate into a few phrases, and it partially confirmed his suspicions that this was not going to be your average encounter.

Being sweet to customers while working as a barista was a piece of cake to Tyler. He just had to smile and listen which worked the majority of the time. However, those kinds of friendly behaviours did not suit Wednesday and he presumed would be the same for her close family.

“Alright going in blind it is.” He tried to keep his tone consistent, but the anxiety was building.

Wednesday could see the drooping of Tyler’s body language and knew something was wrong. He was like an open book, or presented as one, with the way his appearance would change so quickly. From her observations he was along the lines of being distressed.

She wasn’t sure what value there would be describing her parents, brother, and butler because it wasn’t like she’d let Tyler lead any of the conversation anyway.

“They won’t refuse your presence here if that’s what you’re worried about. It’s hard for them to say no to me.” Her words of reassurance came out.

A slight weight was taken off from Tyler’s shoulders. The boy felt that if he was turned away from here he wasn’t sure how far he’d make it. After losing everything, his job, his education, his friends, his Father’s protection, there were only few options remaining for him.

“You must have a good relationship then.” Tyler tried not to let the memories of his family cross his mind as he feared it may be a trigger.

Wednesday held a scoff in at the idea. The relations she maintained were purely out of loyalty. The closeness she’d been feeling recently with her Mother was still not akin to anything ‘good’. Her intention was not to feed into the expectations that had been placed on her by her parents, but instead go above them.

She supposed having a loyal servant so early could be something they’d be impressed by.

“On the contrary.” She took a step backwards, leading herself towards the door, strands of her still damp hair being tangled into her usual two braids. “They know I’d just force them.”

Tyler was almost flattered with the amount of effort Wednesday was putting in for him. He knew it was most likely because having a monster as an accessory was something that benefitted Wednesday in the long run, but also in a dark, deep part of his tainted soul he wished it were for emotional gains as well.

Once quickly completing her two knots, Wednesday’s hand shifted behind her, exactly landing on the handle. The door had still been slightly left open this entire time and she hoped there was no snooping that gave away her surprise so soon.

A chime echoed through the large mansion and Wednesday knew it was time.

“Let’s go Tyler.” She commanded.

Keeping her head up high she began her descent of the stairs, only letting the tips of her fingers glide along the old railing. She had to make it physically clear, as well as verbally clear, that there would be no rejections from her family unless they wanted to face off with her.

She could hear the clinging of cutlery being placed down at their large table as she moved down. Of course her parents were going to try and impress their new guest with how lavish they could be.

Wednesday also made sure she could still hear the shoeless boy’s footsteps following behind her. They were softer than his initial entrance, but still audible to her sensitive ears. She wanted to make sure he hadn’t already retreated before encountering anyone else.

As she turned towards the dining hall, the figures came into view. There was Lurch who was still placing things onto the mahogany table, Pugsley who sat swinging his feet with something hiding in his hand, and her parents who were already disgustingly close to one another, their hands connecting above the cloth.

“Wednesday, my beautiful corpse.” Morticia addressed her approaching daughter, trying to also get a glance at the lanky boy right behind her.

Wednesday took in a deep inhale and brought the conditions she’d thought of earlier into her mind. There was no beating around the bush to be had when the monster in the room was entering the hall with her.

“Keep the compliments to a minimum please.” Wednesday requested, tugging her dress around so she could sit facing her parents. “I just wanted to clear things up.” She started the important conversation.

Tyler crept past her to the next available seat leaving him sandwiched in between Wednesday and her brother. He tried his best to be gentle with his movements and even wore a soft smile on his almost sweating complexion.

“Go ahead my little girl.” Gomez gave the nod of approval to his daughter.

Raising her hand up from her side she directed the limb towards her Father. He had a pleased expression on his face, although he generally seemed to be joyful whenever Wednesday was in his presence.

“Gomez, Morticia, Lurch, and Pugsley.” She gestured toward everyone accordingly whilst speaking. “This is Tyler.” Wednesday landed on the boy accompanying her, the tips of her fingers were close to brushing his slightly flushed cheek. “He’s a rampaging serial killer who almost killed me.”

Tyler felt himself freeze up.

She had just so casually dropped that as his initial descriptor. Although it may not be incorrect, he’d hoped some positive qualities may have been noted before getting to the juicy parts. Which he blamed on himself since he should have expected nothing less from the cynical Wednesday Addams.

What shocked the boy even more was the growing grins on her parent’s faces.

“Of course our darling girl would pick a murderer.” Gomez said almost excitedly to his wife, who’s hand he then brought up to his lips for a tender kiss.

“I wasn’t finished.” Wednesday brought the attention back to herself. “He will be staying with us for the time being. If we could prepare the basement that would most likely be the best place to keep him.” The rule of his arrival was unapologetically announced as a statement and not a request.

“That’s occupied at the moment my dear. Why doesn’t he take the spare room next to you?” Her mother suggested, tipping her head lightly to the side whilst her eyes danced between the two teenagers.

Tyler felt a little excluded from the conversation even though it was involving him. He hadn’t even gotten in a ‘hello’ during their whole meeting. The boy wasn’t sure if he should be upset Wednesday wasn’t letting him be vocal, or if this was for the best since she obviously knew her family much better than he did.

“I suppose that will do, but we should prepare the locks. I’d rather avoid any uncontrolled incidents.” Wednesday continued to speak for Tyler, hearing his previous concerns. “Also he requires more clothing.”

The almost giant manservant began placing down large dishes that were hidden by a cloche. That didn’t break the stare Wednesday maintained with her parents, she just waited for the obstacle of the being’s long arm to move.

“Lurch can fetch him some more unused items from your Father’s collection after our meal. That should do for the time being.” Morticia matched the energy Wednesday was giving off, her shoulders high as she presented a flawless posture.

It seemed to be settled as easily as that. Wednesday hadn’t expected much refusal from her parents, but she had been going over responses and arguments in her mind prior just in case the rarity occurred.

Like hawks, her parent’s attention shifted to the guest who was sitting quietly at their table. From first appearances he didn’t look like much of a threat, really, he looked so very delicate. That kind of foolery was something they understood would be enough to fool even their highly intelligent daughter.

“So, what kind of beast were you again Tyler?” Gomez asked, leaning forward with anticipation for his answer.

Feeling like he was back in the discussion, Tyler straightened himself up.

“I’m a-”

“That’s not of importance.” Wednesday cut him off before he could even begin.

The boy was left with his mouth slightly hanging open. Perhaps it was for the best that he didn’t speak, but the separation he began to experience was getting worse. In the house of outcasts he was really feeling like the one excluded.

“Our daughter is always so secretive.” Morticia said fondly, giving Gomez a little squeeze where their hands were still intertwined. “If you don’t think we need to know then we’ll just find out with time.” She finished, already having a small exchange with a frantic Thing before getting to actually meet Tyler.

Pugsley went to lift his cloche assuming the conversation was over but paused the moment his sister’s voice entered the space again.

“Can I get your word that everything will be prepared?” Wednesday asked for clarity.

Gomez placed his free hand onto the table, the particularly rough extremity sliding along the table, aimed at Wednesday’s pale fingers that rested on either side of her own meal. He still had an approving smile on his face as he did so.

“Anything for you, my raven.” He tried to close the gap and give her a reassuring tap, but she jerked her own hand rapidly so he couldn’t touch her.

The delighted expression only widened as he realized his little Wednesday was still the same.

Shifting her now hovering hand over the small peak of the plate covering, she curled her fingers around the handle. Wednesday wasn’t sure what kind of dish was lurking beneath, but she hoped it wasn’t anything too special as this wasn’t supposed to be any ceremonious occasion.

She just introduced a temporary family member.

“Now you can eat.” Wednesday nodded to the dishes that still sat hidden in front of them.

Pugsley was the first to pull his cloche off, already anticipating the moment he was allowed to do so. He knew better than to disrupt the talks of his family. Getting a knife between the fingers was something he’d had happen one too many times.

Tyler looked over to the pile of food that sat before the young boy. He wanted to make sure his expression wasn’t anything possibly insulting to the cook, who he presumed was the tall man that now stood still behind Wednesday’s parents. However, as he stared, he felt his stomach twist.

On the now eagerly eating boy’s grey plate sat a pile of what looked like raw meat, not just meat, organs. There was a dark juice sitting around each piece and the noise that came from Pugsley’s mouth as he chewed made Tyler tense his hand around his own covering.

Doing the polite thing Tyler revealed the same looking meal. A part of him had hoped that it was just Wednesday’s brother that received the uncooked meal, but the same display of items was staring back at him from his own serving.

Taking his fork, with a slightly shaking hand, he picked up the least intimidating thing on his plate. He presumed it was some kind of raw beef, or at least he hoped so as it flopped around on his utensil.

Swallowing down his fear, he placed the mouthful past his lips. It was rich with iron, the blood taste almost making him gag. It wasn’t like he hadn’t had this substance before, but it was a lot harder to gnaw and taste in his human form.

Getting it down thankfully, he then turned to Wednesday who was slowly chewing through something off her own similarly designed plate. The blood from the meat had lightly tinted her lips a deep red.

Leaning towards her ear, careful not to get too close as she had previously requested, he asked her a question he wasn’t too sure he wanted an answer to. “What exactly am I eating?”

The girl continued to finish the food that was being crushed between her teeth, but she turned back to look at him as a signal she’d heard what he’d said. Matching his tilt, she placed her mouth close to his ear, making sure she was on the side where he parent’s couldn’t attempt to read her wine red lips.

“It’ll be easier to get through if you don’t know.” Wednesday whispered back, stabbing her own fork aggressively into the spread she had in front of her again.

That response made Tyler’s body sweat even more. He began to wonder if this was in fact beef he was eating or some other kind of muscle. Although he knew what humans tasted like, but the remnants on his tongue were not enough to decipher if perhaps that was what he’d just eaten.

Wednesday could tell he was more unnerved than before as she leaned back to indulge on the new bite she’d prepared on her fork. This kind of dish was only eaten during specific moments where her parents wished to impress, but from experience, Wednesday knew it was usually not to the average person’s liking.

“So Tyler, how many people have you killed?” Pugsley asked into the silence.

Leaving his fork buried inside the red food, Tyler became rigid again. He knew Wednesday’s family would be distanced from a normal dynamic, but the interest in his monster’s morbid lifestyle was rendering him speechless.

He turned to the young kid on his left and saw his wide-eyed curiosity. Truly he did remind Tyler of when he’d first met the intriguing Wednesday, and with these questions he could definitely tell they were related.

“I-” He croaked out, not wanting to be rude but also not sure whether he should answer.

“Enough to be called a serial killer.” Wednesday interrupted again without looking up.

Tyler thought over her words and decided they may be better than an actual number, but it still left him trembling. All these people, who he was now going to stay with, knew about him was that he shortened the lives of other humans.

“How did you do it?” Pugsley enquired; his interest solid.

First the food had made him uncomfortable because of what he’d done and now he was having recollections of those darkest moments of his life. It was not something he cared to talk about, especially not in detail.

Looking at Pugsley he was just trying to hold down his feelings. Such a young kid, who most likely didn’t have bad intentions by asking, had made him on edge.

“Pugsley, I've told you about this case before.” Wednesday said, letting her fork clang against her ceramic dish.

Tyler took the chance to look over at Wednesday and beg with his eyes. He could feel the tension building in his body from the conversation and he needed her to tell him to calm down. The emotional contract his beast had made with her meant he’d have to relax, even if every other cell in his body wanted to refuse.

“Oh, the one where people were dismembered?” The child’s next question came.

Almost breaking his chair, Tyler stood up from the table quickly. He could see the surprise from her parents at the motion, but for the betterment of everyone he needed to remove himself from the situation before he did something even more outrageous.

“My apologies but I need to use the bathroom.” He lied, turning back to Wednesday to plead with his gaze once more.

The signal got a little lost along the way as this expression didn’t frequently cross paths with Wednesday. She was not so sure why Tyler seemed so erratic about going to the bathroom, but she thought it was her duty as the primary host to show him the way.

“I’ll take him.” She pushed up from the table, leaving half her plate unfinished.

Without any hesitation Tyler gave a small nod towards the other people in the room before speeding off towards the closest exit. He hadn’t even been into this part of their overly sized house, but any place that was away from that table was going to be enough for him.

Wednesday tracked right behind him, unsure why he wanted to go over towards the cult activity rooms. The only part of the house she recalled he’d seen was the upstairs section unless he’d somehow slipped out during her close watch of him. That was unlikely to her considering how good she is at watching people.

“The bathroom is this way.” She called out to him, wrist turned in the opposite direction of where he’d just stormed off.

Tyler paused, concentrating on controlling his breathing. The more Laurel used him, the more he’d learnt to fall in tune with the monster, and right now he felt as if there were two people breathing with his lungs.

He had to relax.

“I knew your family were going to be similar to you, but I was not at all prepared for that.” He spoke, letting her only see his slightly arched back, the black material that covered him leading to him blending with the dark hallway.

“They ask too many questions.” She crossed her arms just thinking about how she’d harm her brother for forgetting about the case that kept her entertained at school.

Recognising that Wednesday was not at all aware of his current state, he decided he should distance himself from her. It was a little frustrating for him that the person who could help him stay regulated assumed not much was wrong when it was entirely the opposite.

“Can you just give me some space for a little?” He requested, putting out a hand to lean against the wall for some stability.

The girl’s brows brought themselves closer together as she wondered what was so wrong with Tyler. She was well aware of how emotional he could get, just since announcing his arrival the night before there’d been so many feelings freely flowing out of the boy. It almost gave her a migraine trying to keep up.

“You should walk outside. The lack of light may be making you faint.” Wednesday suggested, walking past the slowly crumbling Tyler towards the outdoor area.

It wasn’t too far from where they were already standing, which was good for Tyler because the suffocating sensation was only worsening. He could feel his vision becoming blurry as he held onto the physical state of his body.

Maybe he should just tell her so she can stop it.

The final steps before getting to the less stuffy outside were the hardest for him. The black all melted together and was causing him to feel a little claustrophobic. To his warped perception everything was closing in around him, and even Wednesday who was leading him seemed to merge into the darkness.

The sun wasn’t very pronounced, but the small amount that got through felt great against his face. The slight breeze also reminded him that he was in fact in control and nowhere near those old memories that tickled at the back of his mind.

His legs felt a little wobbly and he almost fell against the gravel that knocked underneath his bare feet. The slight sharpness of them kept him upright though, knowing it would be quite the painful fall if he did collapse.

“Tyler.” Wednesday yelled after the wandering man.

Not realizing how far he’d walked into the yard, he turned back to look at Wednesday, who was still stood in the doorway he’d casually passed through. From the distance he’d created she looked quite small, especially in comparison to the massive mansion that took up practically the rest of his vision.

“Don’t get too close to the flytraps.” She warned.

Raising his still shaking hand to give a thumbs up, he spoke. “Note taken.”

Wednesday could now see that not only was something wrong, but he was acting very strange. The Tyler she’d known was always composed really well, even when getting sensitive emotionally.

She decided there was no way she could leave him unsupervised. Wednesday may have invited him to stay with her and her family, but this character was a loose cannon if he happened to transform. There was also the small tingle in the back of her mind telling her that everything he was doing was an act, just like when they’d first engaged with one another.

Wednesday knew her immediate family would not be too bothered by having a challenge such as Tyler around to keep them on their toes. If he really was dangerous it could possibly even be a joyful game for them to play. That is if he doesn’t act too quickly and cut everything short.

The part of her that had intense feelings though was upset by the implication. It was almost as quiet as her doubts of his presence here, but it was twice as strong. Those affections she had once had still lingered. As much as she hated herself for it, she wanted to see him genuinely improve.

The Tyler Wednesday had gotten to know initially was undeserving of all of this. It wasn’t his choice to have a Mother who hosted a monster. It wasn’t his choice for Laurel to use that lost connection to wake up the beast inside him. She could guess from his friends he wasn’t the kindest person to begin with, but the turmoil he’d been through was a torture she’d only wish upon her worst enemies.

Whilst in thought she’d lost sight of him.

“Wednesday!” Tyler shouted out.

Worried about what could have happened to him, she dashed out the door. Her eyes darted around the open space covered with thorny trees and the various plants that were most likely the origin of his calling.

From the initial noise it didn’t take her long to find him. His body was only half visible though, the black material that covered his arms reached out from the dark green vines that tightly held him.

“What happened?” She asked whilst observing the scene, Tyler’s body slowly being swallowed even more.

It was almost comical the way he wriggled around in the large plants grasp. There was no doubt who had won in this battle of strength, and yet he kept trying to fight for his escape.

“A warning about the plant tentacles would have been nice too.” He said loudly, tugging on one of the vines to make sure he could still speak.

“They usually don’t bother me, so I hadn’t thought of it.” Wednesday gave a small shrug, pretending she hadn’t been concerned about Tyler. “Drop him.”

Obediently the strangling limbs dropped Tyler back against the rocky path he’d been strolling along. It wasn’t a graceful fall, and the boy almost face planted from the sudden change in tensions.

Wednesday tried not to smile, but the image of him flailing around was like when she’d feed bugs to her pet spiders. To her it was humorous.

“I am going to die here.” He huffed out, crouched over on his hands and knees.

Hearing his comment, Wednesday moved closer to the boy who was now dirty again. He was keeping his head facing down at the ground, collecting the breaths she assumed the plant had temporarily robbed from him.

As she progressed to be right in front of him, she noticed there were slight tears in the material that covered his body, but luckily there didn’t seem to be any bleeding. They would definitely need a top up of fresh clothing after his incident.

“Remember what I said. You’re only allowed to die if I permit it.” She leaned down even further to catch his expression. “Why didn’t you just transform and break free?” Wednesday questioned, knowing well enough the claws on the hyde would have defeated her family greenery.

“Because I’m not emotionally stable right now.” He grunted, pushing away from the ground so he could instead sit amongst the grey gravel.

Wednesday, who was now crouching down, analysed his face. He was still stubbornly looking towards the various shapes of stones that surrounded them both. Some truly looked sharp enough to cut through to bone.

“What’s bothering you?” Her question came.

Tyler was a little relieved she would at least be able to recognise when he was upset going forward, but that didn’t break through his anger at her ignoring his obviously worrying reaction earlier.

He knew Wednesday wasn’t as in tune with feelings, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t be irked about it.

“You wouldn’t understand.” He plucked one of the deadly rocks off the ground to give him something to concentrate on. The pointed edge of the mineral poked into his skin.

Wednesday knew things like this weren’t her forte. Usually the only person she had to comfort was her brother after someone had taken things too far, and that meant she wasn’t so well practiced in the world of compassion.

“I may not be as involved in feelings as you are, but I still understand them.” She tried to explain.

Shooting his head up Tyler threw the rock just past her face. He had not intended to hit her at all and was glad he hadn’t gotten so close to her unflinching, and closer than he’d realised, posture. Even in his anger he didn’t want to hurt anything living, notably not her.

“I’m angry. I’m frustrated. I’m upset.” He confessed, now looking at her familiar expression.

“Why?” She asked to better understand where he was coming from.

His hand smacked into the ground, the fist aching from the sudden collision.

“Because I killed people Wednesday!” He yelped, his eyes filling up. “Innocent people.” He continued, voice beginning to tremble. “I may have enjoyed it under her control, but the second Laurel died all I’ve felt is misery.” The hand he’d punched against the ground lifted up to strike again, harder than the previous time.

Wednesday kept her eyes trained on him, this was a big display of pain. Not the kind of pain she’d become well accustomed to when messing around with her brother and other annoying individuals, but the kind she was only beginning to relate to.

“I assume that’s not how you want to feel.” Wednesday guessed from the now bloodied stones underneath his fist.

The overwhelming feelings were making Tyler’s body shake more aggressively. It was almost as if his physical being was not enough to hold all of the things his mind was perceiving. Having his own thoughts and emotions was one thing but sharing them now with something else made everything more heightened.

“Most people don’t enjoy being depressed Wednesday.” He scoffed, unsure if it was even worth pouring out his heart.

“How can I help?” Wednesday was really trying.

He brought the crimson covered knuckles up so he could see the damage, torn skin lightly hanging off the wound. The pain was barely registering from all the other sensations that were flowing throughout his body.

“Make me pay for it.”

Closing her eyes to blink, Wednesday considered what he said. This was the same kind of feeling she’d gotten when he’d dropped underneath the water and refused to release himself from the liquid's hold. She knew masochists, but there seemed to be no gratification in his damaging actions.

“You want me to hurt you?” She wanted to make sure her interpretation was accurate.

Tyler put his hands out before pressing them together to make a ball, fingers crossing over one another intertwined. The display was only a few inches away from Wednesday’s pale face, and she almost flinched backwards from the speed of it.

He was begging.

“I can’t take back what I did but I can physically endure their pain.” He said as if he’d been considering this idea for some time.

Wednesday knew she was brilliant at torture, it had been one of her first obsessions, but for some reason it felt like enjoying the agony he requested was going to only feel bad. The way he so desperately wanted to repent through abuse was making her feel something that wasn't familiar.

“If I cut you open, you’ll most likely die.” She reminded him.

Trying to hold a smile, the tears came flooding down his dusty face.

“Maybe that’s what I deserve.”

Chapter Text

Capturing the boy’s wet cheeks in between her hands with a loud slap Wednesday made sure Tyler was focusing on her, only her. She aimed his glossy eyes up to meet her serious circles of abyss. This self-pity was making her feel unwell, and unsurprisingly she did not enjoy having to feel much at all.

“You came to me to serve me.” She reminded the grovelling boy, still perplexed as to how she’d so easily opened herself back up to him, even with her doubts of his undying loyalty present. “Right now I need you alive.” Wednesday made it clear that her intentions moving forward included a functional companion.

The stream that flowed down his face, obeying gravity's tug, paused. There was a small hitch in Wednesday’s voice that was clearly stemming from her annoyance at having to comfort the boy who had stormed his way back into her life. Tyler knew that it wasn’t fair of him to require such reassurances from someone who wasn’t too familiar with the concept, and so he adjusted.

“What is it you want me to do then?”

The way his pupils were moving made it obvious to Wednesday that he’d been searching desperately for something, and according to his previous words that involved physical harm by her hand, but now there was something else glistening in his desperate gaze. He’d become so familiar with being told how to act that it gave him purpose and he wanted that direction given to him now.

“Have more control.” Wednesday confronted the emotionally vulnerable boy. “Stop feeling like shit and learn how to lead the hyde.” It was clear he may not even really know what true control was anymore, but having a sense of autonomy was going to be important since she wished not to constantly tend to him or have to worry he was a ticking time bomb.

Tyler’s nose scrunched slightly as he considered whether that was a comment or command. He presumed it was the first since it would take more than a simple sentence to master his monster. It left him feeling a little confused though, Laurel had not dictated every part of his life, but she surely influenced the way he behaved and that’s what had him so mangled.

Since her strings had been snipped there’d been a kind of emptiness sitting inside of him, waiting to be filled up with the identity she’d moulded, but she was no longer his master nor a part of the living realm. The gapping middle portion of his soul was aching for purpose and personality whilst his mind fought to remain glued together the two entities not able to work in tandem as he was unsure of how to fit back what had been removed.

Pulling her touch away from the damp surface of Tyler’s skin, Wednesday wiped the palms of her hands against her clean clothing, not wanting to let the misery leak into her pores. It was not meant to be a disrespectful motion, and luckily Tyler seemed to be too deep in thought again to notice she’d even let go of him.

“There may be torture involved in these experiments going forward.” Wednesday said nonchalantly whilst rising away from the gravelled pathway. “That will be how you atone.”

Tyler was a little surprised not much pain had been inflicted upon him yet, at least nothing extreme had come from Wednesday’s position. In fact, he’d possibly done more harm towards her. He wasn’t sure if he was glad she was treating him delicately to credit his feelings like he’d requested long ago or if it made him feel puny. He was a terrorizing monster after all, and not a glass figure threatening to shatter upon any impact.

“I’m worried I’ll hurt you again.” He confessed, still gazing up at her from his knees.

The sincerity of his tone should have worried Wednesday, but it instead briefly comforted her. It meant he wasn’t some mindless monstrosity but a boy who needed help and was even willing to admit his faults. All he needed was Wednesday as a tool to guide him, to push him towards success.

“As long as you listen to me only the deserving will be punished.” This deserving of course being those Wednesday deemed fitting for her wrath, it was not necessarily those who the whole of society would select for punishment.

As Tyler looked up towards the pitch-black covered girl, he began to feel a sense of pride. Her ghostly skin and dark eyes may not be the ideal figure of justice but from his point of view she looked like a beautiful angel of death. He already knew of her past incidents which should have landed her in jail, and yet he wanted to continue to bow down as if she were an idol. Revenge was a bittersweet experience, and he was ready to defend her journey with his whole being.

“You know you’re a lot nicer than you seem.” Tyler blurted out.

The intended compliment made Wednesday’s body tick. She had been generous with Tyler, she was well aware, but her hospitality was specially selected. Not everyone got a second chance in her mental book, those positions were usually reserved for those who shared her family name and them alone, and yet the boy who had undoubtedly broken her trust was scribbled down.

“My patience has its limit.” She fought back against his kind words.

Wednesday had expected Tyler to spiral back down to his begging state, but his face remained neutral. He clearly understood the good hand he’d been dealt in regard to the levels of sympathy Wednesday was willing to give and was just grateful she’d given him the time of day.

“Let’s return to my parents. We’ll need to get those clothes sooner than expected.” She spoke, gesturing her pointer finger towards the dust covered, slightly ripped up, attire that hung off Tyler’s frame.

Spinning on the ball of her foot she turned herself back towards the door they’d both exited from. This tug of war they had going on was making her absolutely exhausted, but she knew it would pay off in the end, after all, making your hyde like you instead of forcing them to submit to you could lessen the chances of deadly pushback. That’s what she’d say this was all building up to.

“Before we go back.” His hand reached out to grab any part of her, but he fell just short, his slightly trembling fingers not actually coming into contact. “Tell me to calm down.” He requested, tilting his head down to a small degree out of shame.

Turning back around and noticing his hovering arm she was impressed. He still was giving her the space she had wished for. It began to make her wonder if he would continue to do so whilst conscious until she broke the command. She also considered if that would also mean contradicting requests cancelled each other out. There was a lot she would have to go through during their eventual tests.

“Tyler, you shouldn’t need me to do that.” Wednesday said, crossing her arms across the front of her chest, signalling she was unimpressed with his powerlessness.

“I can try, but I’m not strong enough right now.” Tyler knew it only made him more pathetic, but he was following the need to be honest.

He truly wasn’t sure when his real last meal as a human had been, and even if the hyde had snacked on the wildlife that lived along his trail to Wednesday’s residence it was not sustainable, not to mention his mind felt like it was slowly being fed through a shredder. Both main states of his being were depleted.

“Fine.” Wednesday said, tightening her arms closer to her chest, still glaring down at the kneeling boy. “Stop being a little kid and act like the intelligent monster you are.” She both insulted him and complimented him in the same breath.

As if a switch was flicked in his mind, Tyler rose from the ground, his tense body relaxing to a calm stance. He looked similar to how he had that night he’d almost killed her. Full of over confidence and enough presumed power to take on the world. That fragile boy had made himself present mighty almost instantly.

“I feel stupid for saying thank you but thank you.” He spoke, his voice smooth.

Wednesday couldn’t help but blink at the change. Just from her simple request to act more like the man who had betrayed her, his whole demeanour shifted. He was still the drained boy as he had been moments ago, but he wouldn’t let you think so from the height of his shoulders and his calculated stare.

“It’s fascinating how quickly you reacted to that.” Wednesday muttered, the nature of the hyde once again captivating her. “I also trust you didn’t take that command literally. There should not be any sights of a real beast until I permit it.” She cleared up, not wishing to encourage any damages, not yet at least.

“I understand.” He nodded softly. “And I was trained well.”

Wednesday sucked on the back of her teeth, trying to keep her irritation undetectable. Any praise for the wicked woman that was Laurel Gates made her heart darken, especially since it was coming from her famous artwork, Tyler. He was clearly torn apart by a clumsy and reckless master, and she cared not to foolishly make the same mistakes when healing him.

Turning away from Tyler again, so he couldn’t see her blank expression slip, she took a few steps forward before speaking. “I’ll train you better.”

There it was again. That hope that Tyler was clinging onto. It bloomed in his chest, the dancing petals falling against the rest of his body with a gentle warmth. Even though he was currently burying all emotional turmoil down, he couldn’t help the positivity tingling inside him. Having Wednesday around constantly was not nearly as daunting as he’d thought.

The echoing of her movements could not be heard, and she realized the boy had powered down again, too caught up in himself to properly assess the environment around him, including Wednesday making her way back to the house. Asking him to follow her around like a lost puppy wouldn’t be a command she was willing to utter in response though.

“Hurry up Tyler.” She called out, not caring to turn back in case the rigidness of her face was more prominent than usual.

The kicking of stones started up behind her and the urgency of each step almost made her forget what she was irritated about. Even after turning himself into a more rationalized version of himself, he was still chasing after her, a reminder of their positions for as long as she remained his master, which she presumed was until one of them was no longer breathing.

It didn’t take long for them to hook back around to the dining hall. There was only a brief stop to allow Tyler time to clean his new wound. It had already stopped bleeding, and although it was obvious they hadn’t just gone to the bathroom from the state of Tyler’s apparel, his emotional outburst was not a topic that needed to be discussed.

They remained in the same positions as when the two of them had left the table. The only difference was the lack of food remaining on their plates. Wednesday noticed some of Tyler’s had been disrupted, likely her brother trying to get some extra scraps, but she did not enjoy waste, so she’d let him get away with it this time.

Taking reasonable paced strides forward they returned to the table, each taking their respective seats. Not a word was uttered during their movement, and it made Wednesday curious as to what they’d been saying while the pair were wandering around. From the way Pugsley was purposefully avoiding eye contact, it made Wednesday assert her theories even more.

“My sincerest apologies for leaving the table so abruptly.” Tyler broke the silence before Wednesday had the chance, her questions of what they’d been discussing having to be brought up another time. “I must have consumed something strange whilst in my other form.” He gave the excuse, which was a real possibility.

Gomez scanned the boy carefully. He may not be as meticulous as Wednesday or her mother, but he wasn’t so blind as to miss the difference in Tyler’s body language. The shy seeming guy now was staring purposefully at each party he spoke to, even including a small shift to the way he spoke, voice deeper. It made Gomez’s continuous smile only widen.

“You’re quite articulate, sheriff’s boy.” He praised, adding in his own newfound knowledge.

That confirmed Wednesday’s prediction that they had been gossiping about Tyler whilst the boy was out of the room, the details most likely shared by Thing. She presumed it was only natural for people to assess their friends and foes alike, after all you never know who could be the one to stab you in the back.

“I suppose I should be apologizing for my father’s accusations of you as well.” Tyler remained well positioned, his head held high, but he wasn’t stiff, his shoulders were still resting at a natural level.

“We are not our parents.” Morticia noted.

Wednesday’s black eyes automatically rolled backwards at the remark. She didn’t let the reaction last for any longer than a second though, not wishing to seem dramatic. Perhaps it started the moment they’d recommended she go to their original meeting place, or maybe the rejection of mimicking her parents was something she’d slowly been strengthening, either way there had been more of a distance between her and them now more than ever.

“And yet you both sent me to Nevermore to follow in your footsteps.” She added, flicking her carving knife in between two of her fingers as she spoke.

Morticia cared not to argue in front of their unexpected guest, especially since she understood all children went through their alone phase. It just felt more extreme since Wednesday had already been an island and affection was never shared between them in the conventional sense. Being a good mother meant waiting for your child to mature and supporting them as best you could during that difficult developing period.

“You got a new friend out of it though.” Gomez gestured to Tyler with his free hand, still using the one closest to cling onto his wife, acting as if it caused his pain to release her from his touch. “We’d been wondering how long it would take you to find someone brave enough to stick around.” He said with absolute honesty, he did after all know his daughter better than most.

She wasn’t sure if bravery was the correct term, something closer to desperation suited their situation better. Tyler was sitting in Wednesday’s family home because he had nowhere else to go, and no one he knew well enough to allow control over him. It just proved how isolated he had been before her.

Not moving her head but allowing her eyes to dart over to the side Tyler was, she glanced at the now well manned boy. “He doesn’t have a choice in the matter now.” She said quietly.

The possessive sentence sent a shiver along Tyler’s spine, and he tried his best to remain still, but he was sure the miniscule jolt would have been caught by someone. It just delighted his hyde that Wednesday was verbally accepting her role and even announcing her connection that had been formed, even if it wasn’t so direct.

“Well, I simply cannot complete my meal.” Wednesday suddenly completely changed the topic, likely to avoid any additional comments from her parents, dropping the knife she’d been clutching against the mostly finished plate. “It’s alright if you can’t stomach anything else too Tyler.” She said, still not sparing Tyler a proper glance.

He knew it was her form of support, since he’d clearly been set off by the food, and he had to ensure he thanked her for it later. A comforted smile crept onto his otherwise stoic face without his knowledge. Tyler was just so touched by her continued willingness to aid him, even though he would have thought she’d enjoy his uneasiness.

“Would you happen to have a coffee machine?” Tyler directed at the couple.

There were not many things Tyler would call himself talented in, but crafting the perfect coffee was something he’d made an art of. It was why he was always so enthusiastic to make Wednesday’s drink of choice, even if he didn’t think having that much caffeine regularly was healthy. He now wanted to bring something to the table as a sign of his gratitude.

“Tyler was a barista in Jericho.” Wednesday clarified so there was some context behind his sudden question.

“Oh, how lovely!” Morticia said excitedly, looking to her partner to share the feeling. “We usually do it the traditional way, but I suppose there wouldn’t be any harm in getting a welcoming gift for our new guest.” She wasn’t asking for Gomez’s permission, but he nodded in agreement with her, the two of them ready to treat Tyler as if he were one of their own.

Tyler wasn’t sure he wanted to enquire into what the traditional way was for the Addam’s family, it could surely just mean no use of modern technology, but these were the people who had just fed him a raw meal and perhaps consumed many other things usually unsafe for human consumption. He was not going to judge them though; he’d learnt from personal experience that being different doesn’t automatically align with disgusting.

“Please don’t feel the need to buy anything new for me. I’m grateful you’ve given me anything at all.” Tyler spoke up, not wanting to feel like a leech.

“He really is a polite one, isn’t he?” Morticia brushed her shoulder against Gomez’s sharply tailored suit.

The two of them shared the same sentiment that the involvement of Tyler in their lives was only going to make things more interesting. It was undecided whether this development would be positively geared or the opposite, but regardless of the outcome this was opening them up to the growing person their daughter had become.

“You were chosen by our deadly Wednesday; we’d be happy to get you anything you need.” Gomez announced sincerely.

It surprised Tyler how quickly this outcast family was welcoming him. It only better disproved the stigma they had hanging above their heads. He assumed, like Wednesday, they did not care what anyone thought of them though. It was that openness and courage he wished he could share, but instead he was still infected with his father’s closed mind that led him to violence even before the hyde awoke.

His fist tightened under the table, but he remained composed.

“Clothes would be a good start. The light stroll in the garden didn’t end so well.” Wednesday introduced herself back into the conversation, unsure if Tyler had it in him to request the required items for any stay.

“Later we can get Lurch to take you two shopping if you’d like.” Morticia invited, hand delicately lifting towards the manservant. It was almost entrancing how her fingers danced in the air, as if there was a constant flow moving along her body, nearly a stark contrast to the usually rock-solid Wednesday.

Snapping her head towards Tyler, nearly causing the boy to jump out of his skin, Wednesday assessed the outfit he was currently wearing. Although this particular fit was ruined from the unfriendly plant life, the concept itself didn’t look terrible on Tyler. His body was slightly drowning in the silky material, but the colour complimented him well. Perhaps Wednesday just had a bias towards black though.

“He would likely be fine in Father’s old pieces, but possibly some new items would be a good idea.” She agreed after her close inspection.

“It’s settled then!” Morticia celebrated, standing up from the table and dragging Gomez along with her. She was preparing herself for the departure from the table, understanding this was the end of their meeting. “Make sure he doesn’t get anything too bright though Wednesday.” Her tone shifted back to the bewitching one it usually was.

Still not breaking away from Tyler who was now gently smiling at her, Wednesday got lost in the dishevelled look he had. His expression may be one of tranquillity, but the divergence to the way his scar slightly peeked out from the low hanging collar and his hair was facing towards every direction it could, made him quite the sight.

“I’ll be the one who has to look at him the most, of course I’ll make sure it all stays on the grayscale.” She said, finally tearing her gaze away from the boy who she now had the opportunity to play dress-up with. Of course, the conclusion of chopping his head off would not be included in the child’s play.

“I’m happy with whatever.” He shared his grin to the rest of the room.

Bringing their bodies together, joy still leaking from their beings, Morticia and Gomez shared a smirk of their own. They could certainly tell that Tyler was bringing out admiration they’d never seen Wednesday have towards another human, it was not love per say, but an intrigue. Just allowing him to spend time in her space was enough of a hint as to how she felt towards him without the googly eyes she was unknowingly giving.

“Our little girl is so grown up.” Gomez practically squeaked out of happiness.

Done with their performance, Wednesday pushed herself away from the table, the chair she had been sitting on scraping against the hard floor. It had enough scars on it from the price of their family living there she was sure any marks she’d made would go unnoticed, but the sound snapped the two love birds away from each other if only temporarily.

“Alright we’re leaving.” Wednesday announced, wanting to remove herself from the scene.

Tyler stumbled to a stance, but he caught himself before the mistake could be caught. His outward appearance was still supposed to seem careful and precise at this point in time, even if that meant just ignoring the bubbling negative emotions swirling around inside of him. An order was an order.

“Thank you for everything.” He gave a small bow with his head to show the couple his gratitude.

Quickly, Wednesday was making her way back towards the staircase they had previously descended. It didn’t take many large steps for Tyler to catch up to her, the movement reminding them that his legs were able to cover more ground than Wednesday’s. Their height difference was nearing comedic considering the power roles were reversed.

“Lurch, please bring some drinks up to me before you prepare the spare room.” Wednesday asked, not sparing another look backwards in case she caught a glimpse at her parents once more.

Tyler was shocked at how physically close Wednesday’s parents were, although the overwhelming affection could explain her distaste for such things. He still was unsure how he’d landed a kiss with the contact hating Wednesday, especially since she was the one that initiated it. With those thrilling memories though, came the moments that followed. The realization of his betrayal. He knew there was no way he’d ever forget the expression she had on her face.

There was still a big distance between them, both physically because he was doing as she requested, but also mentally. Even if she had agreed to act as his master, he knew there was a divide that perhaps would never close up. He was the figure she’d elected to trust whilst he was masterfully deceiving her.

“Why did you want me in the basement?” The question came out the moment Wednesday’s door clicked shut.

She should have known that question would arise after her decision to bring up the best housing place for a monster. He should understand that it was just that though, an attempt at keeping him in the most secure location, which just happened to be the basement. Well, one of designated areas that lurked underneath the property.

“I’d feel better knowing you couldn’t escape.” She admitted, not wanting to make things more complicated than they needed to be.

They were not facing each other, Wednesday still had her back turned to Tyler, just as it had been on their way up to her room. She wasn’t sure if she was refusing to look him in the eye because of the way her parents had reacted or if this was an action done to preserve her image since he too may pick up on her glances being different toward him.

“You still don’t trust me?” His confident voice faltered.

Without even having to look over her shoulder she could imagine the face he was pulling. Even after being told as a direct order to tone it down his feelings were seeping through the mask, or at least, that’s what she believed. Really, he was still maintaining his relaxed expression, but that didn’t prevent his speech from teetering.

“You don’t trust yourself.” Wednesday said in response, pretending there was something super interesting at her desk, even if it was just her typewriter and some carefully placed tools. “Also don’t expect my hospitality to continue after your room is set up.”

A deep exhale released the built-up tension Tyler was collecting. He was supposed to remain calm, and that is what he was going to do. It may have been his request to have her command him, but it was still a demand he had to obey. This was his way of proving he could do almost anything if she was the one who willed it.

“I’ll keep my hopes six feet under.” He joked.

The humorous line freed some of the tightness Wednesday had begun to feel around her temples. It didn’t completely wipe away the unpleasant sensation, but it helped affirm there wouldn’t be another plea for some positive sentiment.

“That’s still a little high.” Wednesday played along, finding the confidence to turn back around.

There was a soft smirk growing on his delicate face again. It seemed he loved to greet her with such expressions even though she could rarely ever reciprocate them. She’d expect him to not anticipate anything of the sort again anytime soon. The one time he’d raised a genuine smile out of her was an extremely special occasion.

She could tell her eyes were beginning to mellow again at the sight of him, making her frustrated. However, the staring battle was promptly interrupted by a certain servant bringing up the item Wednesday had requested. She was so thankful to hear her door creak open and nearly nick Tyler.

The extremely tall individual presented the two sparkly clean glasses filled with what Wednesday would assume was water. It was an excellent choice on his end because surely the two of them were dehydrated, Tyler more so. The dark tray that they gently wobbled atop made the transparent liquid seem even fresher.

“Thank you, Lurch.” Wednesday expressed her gratitude.

With a low groan Lurch pushed the cups towards Tyler. His eyes were colourfully discoloured, and Tyler would liken him to that of a zombie, a giant zombie. He had been too focused on how the man looked close up, he’d forgotten the reason he’d been summoned. Feeling almost rude he quickly snatched the two containers up, giving a twitching smile to say his thanks.

As soon as the glasses sat in Tyler’s grasp Lurch yanked the bedroom door shut again with a heavy bang. It almost made Tyler jump, but he was concentrating on delivering the drink to Wednesday without spilling a drop, and so he only let his head bob slightly.

“Does Lurch speak?” Tyler asked, taking a single step towards Wednesday whilst slowly stretching out his arm.

“When he feels like it.” She answered.

Extending her own limb, Wednesday grabbed the shiny glass out of Tyler’s hand. Their fingers briefly touched, and she was reminded that he still was not allowed to initiate any contact, which is why his body was still so far away from her even when trying to hand her something. The gentle press as the item was passed between them almost made her consider breaking the rule, but she thought better of it for now.

Tyler noticed the brief connection as well, and it made the hairs along his arm stand up, as if some electric shock had been passed from her to him. However, he was well aware it was just him being excited by the closeness they were sharing. He’d wanted to reach out to her so many times but was prevented from doing so.

Trying to hide the delight he was feeling, Tyler brought the cup against his smiling lips. The liquid was smooth, and practically flavourless, but he swore there was a powerful metallic taste that would have to be double the usual amount that the pipe system provided.

“Is this tap water?” He spoke while smacking his lips together for a deeper investigation.

During his time of large gulps, Wednesday had moved over to her desk, placing herself in the seat that sat across from her typewriter. It had barely made a sound as she pressed all of her weight against it and prepped her fingers for the well-kept keys.

“The less questions you ask, the less annoyed I will be.” She dodged the question.

Reluctantly finishing off the mystery liquid, that was just some processed water, Tyler dragged his luckily clean fingernail across his mouth. “My lips are sealed.”

Taking in the new development Tyler moved ever so closer. He knew he still had to keep a respectful distance, but his curiosity was peaking. He’d known from the note she’d sent him, which Tyler knew was likely not written by her, that she used such a device for communication, but he hadn’t had the chance to see it nor see her use it.

It didn’t take long for her pale hands to begin dancing across the machine. She moved and pressed each letter rhythmically as if she were not typing but instead playing a melody. The noise was entertaining the boy who had nothing else to do, and even if he had much else on he was sure he’d still want to be watching her at that moment.

Her expertise was clearly showing as she moved, and Tyler was so entranced in her conduction he missed what she had been writing. Flicking his eyes away from her well-manicured nails he began to read the sentences.

‘There was a dwelling figure that interrupted the girl’s intense concentration. It was no more than a shadow to her, but as it hovered her irritation grew.’

“You staring at me is just as bad as you talking.” Wednesday spoke before Tyler could say anything about what she’d pressed against the thick paper that sat carefully against the mechanism. “What do you want to ask?” She addressed, not breaking away from the appliance in front of her but still feeling Tyler behind her.

“What are you writing?” He asked, as if he hadn’t already viewed her work.

Slapping her hand against the desk, making the water ripple in her cup, she twisted herself around to look at Tyler. Her nostrils were a little more flared than usual, which she would quickly correct before he could pick up on it. Letting him know she was getting a little worked up could possibly encourage him.

“Nothing that can be used at the moment since I’m being distracted.” She said using her usual cold tone.

“I can go somewhere else if you want.” He responded, a little upset, but understanding, since it was something one needed to hyper focus on.

The slight turn of his lips made her almost feel bad. That was something Wednesday never used to feel, even if she was practically drowning her begging brother. It was another addition from her enrolment at the school full of outcasts, from meeting the boy who towered above her.

“Stay for now.” She blurted out, knowing he didn’t have practically anywhere else to be. “I’d prefer you stay close for the time being.” Her voice finished quieter, knowing her words were going to do the opposite of her previous phrase.

It didn’t take a fortune teller to know Tyler would smile even wider than before, it was simply a pattern that after Wednesday said anything reassuring of their bond, he would be happy. The joy almost made her envious. Being so intoxicated with emotion that you can’t hold your body back from showing was something she fought so hard against that now it was difficult for her to recreate even a fraction of that intensity.

“Wipe that grin off your face.” She requested, feeling her eyes beginning to shift again.

“Yes ma’am.” He shot back with a nod, slowly tugging his lips down forcefully.

The term took Wednesday by surprise. She could not recall anyone referring to her as such, except perhaps overly optimistic staff and people who had it embedded in their dialect instead of any other traditionally feminine addressing word. It was not something she cared to hear Tyler say either.

“Don’t call me that.” She tried to hide her disgust.

It wasn’t exactly an order, but Tyler was going to treat it as such, until of course he wanted to tease her a little. Bringing more light-heartedness to this situation was definitely a good way to handle all the pressure he was feeling otherwise. It was also a part of why he liked Wednesday, her sharp mind always being of interest to him.

“What can I refer to you as?” Tyler followed up.

“Wednesday.” She quickly said, knowing it was the obvious answer, but there was something in her controlling mind that wanted something else, to take on her role as his owner. “On the rare occasion, maybe master.” Wednesday added, turning herself back towards the typewriter out of nervousness. It felt weird coming out of her mouth, but a darker part of her soul wondered what it would bring out.

A loud swallowing sound escaped from Tyler. The title made his palms begin to sweat, just thinking about referring to her as such. He thought that would be another label that could be used to poke at the bear, but no, she was agreeing to it. There was no way he had the courage to say it now, but that would be swimming around in his mind.

“Am I okay to sit on your bed with my dirty clothes?” He tried to change the subject to something else so his thoughts didn’t go anywhere strange.

“I’d prefer you didn’t.” She said with a breath, staring at the black inked letters on her paper. “Sit in my reading chair instead.”

Taking up the invitation instantly, Tyler brushed past where Wednesday was sitting, keeping his hazel eyes trained to the floor. It really was extremely clean in comparison to the assortment of webs that clung to the bottom of her bed frame. Perhaps it was the one area she or Lurch left alone when tidying up since the spiders had put so much work into their masterpieces.

“Could I read something?” He asked, snapping his gaze up to the assortment of books that sat just above the flat seat.

“As long as you keep it in good condition.” Wednesday was placing a lot of faith into Tyler because she was very possessive over her things. It was one of the biggest honours he’d been granted since arriving and she hoped he knew so and took her seriously.

Scanning across the various books, most of which were hard covers and darkly coloured, he read the titles. There was nothing in particular that caught his attention, or at least the things that did intrigue him included morbid topics he thought best to avoid for the time being. He knew Wednesday hadn’t allowed him permission to transform, but if something were somehow traumatic enough it may just break the rule.

“Nothing romantic?” He knew it was highly unlikely she’d have anything of the sort, but if she did have such things, he would certainly wish to study the novel.

“Please just pick something and stop talking whilst I try to write.” Wednesday almost tripped over her words, still balancing herself from the strangeness of the ‘master’ comment. She hadn’t even hit one letter since first addressing his nosey presence.

There was some shuffling before the top of one of her books hit the bookshelf. It was luckily not a hard collision, but Wednesday had to resist her need to know what he had selected. Although of course, she didn’t have to actually look at him to later find out such information, and so she focused on the cream sheet.

Tugging the wasted paper out of the device, she scrunched it up before tossing it perfectly into the trash can that lay beside her set up. Wasting no time, she pulled out a replacement, wanting to capture at least something before Lurch came to call. Her parents had just said later so she was unsure of just how much time she had remaining.

Of course she could just allow Lurch to take Tyler if inspiration hit her, but as she burned holes into the keys with her intense stare, nothing was coming. All she could think about was her words earlier and whether her parents were going to pick up on the previously romantic connection she had with Tyler, that is if Thing hadn’t already told everything to her mother.

“This is excruciating.” She spoke through her teeth.

After not hearing anything from her companion she turned over to the boy who was carefully holding her book. His large hand was covering the front and the spine so she could not yet tell what he had selected. The way he was trailing across the pages made her feel ignored, and she disliked the notion.

“Tyler, let's ask Lurch if he can take us now.” She addressed him.

Achingly slowly Tyler lifted his head out from the book, pressing his lips together overly dramatically to bring attention to them. She had asked him to remain quiet, although Wednesday thought a command had to be more direct than what she’d said. It was a possibility Tyler was just being purposefully irritating, or he was indeed unable to speak until she allowed it. “You can talk again.” Wednesday granted just in case it was the latter.

With a prep in his step, Tyler bounced up from the stiff position. He was still cautious with the book in his possession, making sure to carefully place it face down against where he had just been sitting. He wasn’t sure he’d even gotten through a page of the literature piece before Wednesday cracked.

Taking a bell that sat neatly on her desk, Wednesday rang it precisely two times. The chime was considerably loud for the size of the tool, and it even made Tyler lean back a little. He wondered if there was some sort of mystical properties that caused the noise to be multiplied, as he wouldn’t put anything past her family.

With brisk timing the door was once again pushed open. There was no knock, which had Tyler a little worried about privacy. He wasn’t sure there would be much he’d do that would be seen as inappropriate but receiving a warning before being barged in on was something he enjoyed having.

“Lurch.” Wednesday spoke to the being who had quickly arrived after his summoning. “If we could get Tyler some clean clothes and prepare for the shopping trip that would be good.” She put in her request to the giant, who likely had already prepped for half of what she was wanting.

“I’ll get it done.” Lurch confirmed.

Tyler’s jaw almost dropped from the depth of his voice. It was unlike anything he had ever heard from a human, which made him wonder if the extremely tall zombie-like man was even a person. There were many forms of creatures Tyler had been slowly learning so it wouldn’t be peculiar if Lurch was another.

The servant disappeared into the hallway again, but this time he didn’t completely close the door, since he was likely to appear once again reasonably soon. The ajar nature of the object didn’t seem to bother Wednesday, which was shocking to Tyler since he assumed she enjoyed her secrecy.

“Wow.” Tyler couldn’t help but say. “His voice is-”

“All bass?” Wednesday cut him off.

Giving a small shrug Tyler considered what other words could be used to describe the noise he had just heard escape from the being. It was articulate enough to be interpreted extremely easily, but there was something other than the lowness of it that left him wondering about Lurch’s origin.

“You could say it like that.” He agreed to leave it as that.

Wednesday’s eyes scanned him up and down, focusing a little longer on the scar tissue that was poking out from the top of his shirt. She was hoping whatever had been picked out would be able to hide the marks as she wanted Tyler to present as best he could as the normal guy he originally portrayed. It also reminded her of how dangerous her future shopping buddy was.

“If you hurt him, I will cut off your hands.” She warned.

Giving a few blinks Tyler responded. “Understood.”

As if something had been waiting, prepared already, Lurch was back at the entrance to Wednesday’s room. There was another pile of black clothes in his large hands, but this time it seemed to be formal attire and not nightwear.

Tyler was going to bring in as many stares as Wednesday.

“These will do nicely for now.” Wednesday took the outfit from Lurch, who rapidly turned on his heel again to go prepare whatever else needed to be. “Tyler get changed.” She asked, throwing the assortment onto her bed.

Before Tyler could say anything in return Wednesday slid out of her room. She didn’t want to encourage her mother by being alone with him when he was undressing again. Any ideas that had been made about their situation being anything other than a partnership Wednesday had to crush before they exploded into rumours.

Not wanting to hold everyone up Tyler rushed to get changed, leaving his dirty attire against the hard floor, diving to tug on the smaller ensemble. As he brought the material against his body he noticed it fit a lot nicer, sparing the slighting short ends of the pants and cuffs, although it wasn’t enough to be too notable.

He didn’t spare himself a look in the mirror that sat in Wednesday’s room, but he could tell the items that now clung to his body were formal wear. He’d not bothered with the suit jacket since it really would have pushed his look over the edge.

“Are you sure I’m not overdressed?” He questioned, emerging from the room.

Wednesday let herself blink once. It almost reminded her of the look he’d worn to the Rave’n, except the colours were inverted to a charming ebony. Although she had not spent much time gazing at what he had been wearing that night, she did note he looked quite nice in a suit, even if he was only in a deep grey dress shirt and black slacks that teased a soft pattern now.

“You look fine to me.” She averted her gaze from him, not wanting to linger for too long.

“Oh.” Tyler was pleasantly surprised by the compliment. “Thank you.”

Not wanting to delay their departure, Wednesday began her trek down towards the staircase. It wasn’t a long distance and this time she could hear the tapping of Tyler’s new gifted shoes against the ground. She had always been the one to lead in their relationship, apart from on the feelings front.

Giving one last glance behind her before taking the first step down she saw another cheesy grin on Tyler’s satisfied face, his body almost bumping into her since he wasn’t paying attention. She almost wanted him to knock into her though.

“Get your head out of the clouds, let's go.” She directed at Tyler, but also secretly meant for herself.

Chapter Text

The drive was oddly quiet, but Tyler felt weird about breaking the established silence. He wasn’t even sure where to start a conversation and if he did attempt to speak as he knew Wednesday was not too fond of small talk, which would most likely be the first thing to escape his chapped lips based on his hospitality background. The context of their first interaction was likely the only reason she gave him anything other than her usual glare.

All Tyler could do was admire her. Her pitch-black hair resting gently on each of her shoulders, almost blending into the similarly dark denim jacket. The delicate placing of her hands in her lap was almost adorable in his mind as he took in all of her, although he’d never say aloud any descriptive words that likened her to being cute. She had her head turned towards the car window, eye contact unbreaking while she was soaking up the changes of scenery as they abandoned the woodlands to reach suburbia. The only thing he wanted to become lost in was the black hole that was Wednesday.

It was hard for Tyler to admit he had feelings for Wednesday, not only because he was sure she would stomp on them just as he had stepped on hers, but because their new shared bond could easily be influencing his perception. He’d tried to ignore the aching of his fragile heart when she was purely his mission and he knew that should count for something, but he was barely able to hold together the pieces of himself, let alone contemplate such ridiculous longing.

Finally feeling like his staring had been a tad too lengthy, Tyler dropped his head down to look at his own hands resting against his knees. In the past he would at least have a mobile phone in his fingers that he could use to distract himself from intrusive thoughts, but there was no way getting a tracking device was a good idea when you’re wanted by the state, and so he was left with his internal monologue and the humming of the car’s engine.

Wednesday had noticed Tyler’s burning gaze, and she plainly ignored it. She knew the meeting of their eyes would likely lead to some form of conversation and she was desperate for some peace. It wasn’t unlike when she’d first moved to Nevermore. Getting adjusted to the presence of another human in your space was difficult for her at first, and she assumed if that experience with Enid hadn’t happened, she may not have let Tyler stay in her room at all, or possibly even the residence.

She pondered how Enid would react when she told her the man who tried to kill them both was currently sitting across from her and now connected to Wednesday in a supernatural fashion. Not only that, but she was taking him shopping, something Enid would have begged to be able to do with Wednesday. It created a strange chilling sensation that went from her temples down to the pit in her stomach. A similar sensation had been experienced by Wednesday the day Enid had walked out on her.

Trying to bring her focus back to the exterior environment she looked at all the passing figures. There was a variety along the sidewalk, some with children swinging their arms, others walking various types of dogs, and few by their lonesome. It made her remember what Goody had said before she went silent. Isolation was not something Wednesday had ever feared until she came close to permanently losing the people she cared for. Although everyone was due to die alone, that didn’t mean their breathing moments had to be the same.

Slowly rotating herself back around to face Tyler she saw the boy inspecting his own hands. The lightly bronzed tone of his extremities looked reasonably clean, but she could still imagine the maroon tint of blood coating them. She wondered if that’s what he was thinking about at that very moment as well.

A grunt sounded from Lurch breaking them both away from their deepening thoughts. They had finally reached the closest shopping centre to the Addams’ family home. It was a decent trip so Wednesday wished to not waste any time. It was also the overpopulated, aggravatingly noisy area that made her wish for a quick resolve.

With a swift movement, Wednesday threw the door away from her, making it swing out rapidly enough it may have just snapped off if it hadn’t been built to handle the Addams. She shifted her body to exit the vehicle, Tyler hot on her tail without breaking through the invisible wall that encapsulated her.

Doing a small jig to wake up his resting leg, Tyler nearly knocked into Wednesday. She had been as still as a statue as soon as her body had been able to stand, her frame facing towards the remaining being in the car. “Be back here in 30 minutes sharp.” Wednesday directed Lurch.

There was a voiceless nod from the driver before Wednesday pushed her palm against the poor door again, the opening quickly falling back against the black car with a heavy slam. It wasn’t that she was being purposefully abusive towards the vehicle, but it required that much strength in order to operate properly.

The sparkly clean automobile took back off into the line-up, leaving Tyler and Wednesday behind. They’d been let out near one of the many entrances conveniently so their journey inwards would not be difficult. Making their way out of the shopping maze instead would be the tricky part.

Without sharing any words Wednesday began moving herself towards the towering automatic doors. Her visits to this place had not been too frequent since usually her parents would have to hold her back from criminal activity, usually relating to other irritating patrons of the establishment, which meant she wasn’t exactly sure which store they should select.

Tyler trailed behind Wednesday, noticing her many head turns as they entered. She was definitely assessing which direction they should go in order to find a decent enough clothing store. Each shop had its own variation of products, some of which were attire related but not targeted towards teenage serial killing boys.

Finally, Wednesday selected one of the largest department stores in the complex, hoping that it would have enough of the right items they wouldn’t need to venture anywhere else. There was already a mental list she had compiled in her mind of what they should retrieve. It was only the main supplies, but she didn’t recall Tyler being all that accessorizing anyway.

“Let’s get you some basic items. Shoes, socks, shirts, pants, and under garments.” She finally broke their unagreed upon silence, striding along the excruciating overly bright pathway to reach the men’s section.

Tyler nearly chuckled at the use of language. “I forget we’re around the same age sometimes.” He commented from behind her.

Ignoring Tyler’s sentence, Wednesday remained focused on getting to the right section. The one brand was hosting an incredibly large store that if felt like they’d been dodging people for far too long, the irritation may have also been influenced by the fact Wednesday loathed people who were slow and clogged the route she was on.

Finally reaching the men’s department Wednesday spoke again. “I want to get this done quickly.” Her dark eyes darted around at the abundance of signs, luckily most were straight forward enough she could plan out their travel through the area. There seemed to be less people moving through the sector, but she still wanted to keep her distance from them all. “Crowded spaces like this are undesirable.” Wednesday voiced while turning her body in the opposing direction of another shopper.

“I’ll follow your lead.” Tyler encouraged, nearly going past the aisle she’d selected.

As they passed through the accessories Wednesday realized she had taken a turn too abruptly, and she would have sped through the passage if there wasn’t a woman blocking it with her high piled trolley. The rage was building up inside of her. Although Wednesday always put herself first, she tried not to be a nuisance for undeserving bystanders. Unlike this random lady.

Trying to calm herself down before ripping the ladies trolley out of their walkway, she turned to the side to see if there was anything they may want while they were stuck there. She was met with a long-standing mirror, it showed her smaller stature being towered over by a certain Tyler, a nicely dressed boy who was secretly a jailbreaking criminal monster.

“You’re not on any wanted lists, are you?” She suddenly thought, looking at him through the glass reflection.

Tyler hadn’t really considered if his escape was publicized and since he didn’t have any access to the gossiping internet there was no way for him to be sure. However, he was confident his father would have requested to keep things under wraps and most issues with outcasts were kept away from the mainstream media to avoid any extra stigma around the newly emerging group. They’d always been around, just not spoken of.

“I think getting some sunglasses first would be a good start.” Not that a stylish pair of black shades would do much to hide his appearance.

Spinning to face the actual flesh and bone of Tyler, Wednesday saw he wasn’t too concerned about the matter, especially since nothing had been mentioned until her question. He obviously didn’t believe there’d be any issues with being so openly in public or his assumption was completely wrong, and she’d have to pretend she had no idea who he was when the handcuffs came flying. Still, Wednesday trusted they’d be okay.

“Please, you look like every other mildly attractive guy.” She said whilst turning away from him again after hearing the squeak of the rude lady’s trolley moving out of the way. There was no way she was going to leave anyone else the opportunity to block her from reaching a more useful category.

Tyler was frozen for a moment, fully consuming her words in his broken brain. She’d so casually let it slip out too. He began to wonder if she even realized what she’d said before snapping back to reality and seeing her back almost reaching the end of the aisle. With large and hurried steps, he caught up.

“Mildly what?” Tyler asked for clarification.

Keeping her attention on the line up of shirts she didn’t respond. Right now she needed to get decently textured, darkly coloured shirts. Preferably a small variety that allowed both night-time, casual and formal wear. Capturing the fabric of a black tee that featured a random assortment of letters she pressed her fingers against the material, letting her sense of touch take over to assess if it was good. It took only a brief interaction for her to tell it was reasonable.

“What size are you?” She enquired, beginning to flick through the sizes.

It wasn’t uncommon for Wednesday to not give Tyler answers to things he was genuinely curious about, but his crumbling ego needed this confirmation. He also wanted to tease her about it a little bit in the process to hopefully bring back the more positively angled banter they used to have.

“Did you call me attractive?” Tyler tried to ask again.

The second dig for information made Wednesday’s eyes threaten to roll back into her skull. She’d already regretted saying anything, there was no need for her to repeat herself. Tyler needed to take the win if that’s what he was after before she said a collection of drastically worse things instead.

“Answer my question or I’ll cut out your tongue.” Wednesday said with a hint of truth.

Understanding the pressure Wednesday was under being in such a social area, Tyler backed off. She was usually quick to resort to violent threats and he worried she may just act upon them since there was an added burden that had her on edge. It really showed that although she may not be as emotionally expressive, annoyance was something she wore openly.

“Medium.” He answered.

Bringing her side eye away from Tyler she glanced back to the shirts. “See that wasn’t so hard.” She commented, hoping they could keep this straightforward process going.

Wednesday began shuffling past the smaller sizes until she reached a coat hanger with the letter M on it. With a tug she took it off the rack and threw it towards Tyler, who thankfully was ready to catch the garment. Once holding the piece, he draped it over his arm, assuming he was going to act as her basket.

Moving along the section she plucked out different styles of tops, dress shirts, plain tees, long sleeves, but they all shared the same deep colour. Some were a more gunmetal gray, but most were some variety of black. It was purely the shape and fit that would determine when Tyler should wear each.

The pile on Tyler’s arm was already beginning to stack up considerably high and they hadn’t even moved to any of the other pieces. He knew he couldn’t complain about it though, this was after all, all for him. There was a lot he understood he had to be thankful for and so he was prepared to keep his mouth shut unless she requested otherwise.

With powerful steps Wednesday moved around, finally leaving the upper body items. The next category naturally was bottoms, and they varied from proper pants to jeans which would make their job much easier. Like a well-trained puppy Tyler followed behind her, making sure he was prepared for anything she threw at him, literally.

“Pant size?” Wednesday continued her pattern of questioning.

“Medium.” Tyler quickly responded.

Locking in the size in her mind she began sorting through the styles she thought would suit Tyler. She knew they’d certainly need to get multiple pairs of jeans for him since that’s usually what he would wear when given the chance, but her hands also grabbed for a nice cut of dress pants. Although the ones he was currently wearing suited him well, she thought it would be courteous to get him something brand new and not likely ready to fall apart from age.

It was a little strange for her to be thinking so intensely about how each bit of attire would look on Tyler, but it was necessary since they were shopping for him after all. Ever since his unexpected arrival she had been full of him. He was constantly around her physically and even her thoughts rarely escaped from him. It was so foreign that she’d spend so much time on someone other than herself. She hoped it was only a temporary thing.

“Shoe size?” She asked her next question as they moved on.

“Eleven.” Tyler said with more strain now that he was carrying multiple kilos worth of clothing.

Speeding through the shoes and socks Wednesday only grabbed things she’d noticed Tyler sporting before. It was much easier to use what she knew when selecting things rather than trying to change his style to suit her taste. Apart from the colour of course. She didn’t even consider the possibility of having any kind of preference before now and it was not something she wanted to explore.

The three pairs of shoes were difficult for Tyler to balance, but he tried his best to juggle everything. Even though his arms were aching from the angle he had to maintain, he did just so, because Wednesday had entrusted him with the role of being the basket and his loyal self would do anything for her.

“Underwear size?”

“Medium as well.” Tyler spoke in a quiet voice, just loud enough for Wednesday to hear.

Wednesday went to chuck the packet of boxer briefs at Tyler, but as she turned around, she realized he was most likely not going to catch it. As fun as it would be to throw the item into his face, the risk of having him drop everything was likely. So instead of harming her obedient companion, she carefully placed the underwear in a spot in between the giant pile and his chest.

His face had begun to turn a gentle shade of pink from the strain, and it reminded Wednesday of when she would torture people, when she tortured him. The shocks of electricity that shot into his neck must have hurt, he had gritted his teeth together naturally and continued to plead he was innocent.

What had crossed her mind since their little experiment began was his true tolerance for pain since the one occasion she’d tried her hand at tormenting him he was still playing that pure character. From the small cut she’d left on him after his rude intrusion it was likely he took it a lot better than he portrayed. The thought almost excited her. That stage was possibly still some ways off though considering how fragile Tyler was. Unless the pain is what he needed.

“Could I help you folks with anything? A basket perhaps.” A stranger's high-pitched voice interrupted Wednesday’s thoughts.

Wednesday’s eyes subtly shook at the intrusion as she still looked up at Tyler. He could tell that she was just eager to get out of the store as soon as they could because of little interactions like these. He could empathize with her because he too enjoyed staying in his own little bubble at times.

“We’re fine, thank you.” Tyler answered before Wednesday could say anything, giving his precise customer orientated smile to the employee. Truly he would have liked a basket because of the pain shooting up his forearms, but he didn’t want to encourage any further conversation.

“Have a great day.” She sounded unconvinced but wandered off anyway.

The trained phrase sent a shiver down Wednesday’s spine, and not the kind she usually liked, it was uncomfortable. It’s not that she disliked people just doing their jobs in particular, she just hated everyone, that was unless they proved to have substance she tolerated. Tyler for example caught her attention because he was useful and keen to help her. Anyone who was willing to put her needs first was always someone she could conspire with.

“I can’t believe I even talked to you when we first met.” Wednesday said in a hushed voice, obviously still wanting Tyler to hear her but not anyone else that could potentially be lurking. “I suppose ‘holy shit’ is not usually how customers are greeted.” She noted.

“Glad I could be the exception.” He uttered back, the grin on his face softened to be the one he’d reserved for Wednesday. “Too much positivity in customer service for you?” He tried to start a conversation, hoping it would take away from the soreness he was experiencing.

Wednesday could feel herself struggling to keep her heart at a normal pace. She’d blame the slight hitch on having to wander around a place she couldn’t bear for prolonged periods, but she knew deep down, in the small fractures around her black heart, it was related to the expression shift on Tyler’s face as she stared up at him.

“It’s quite horrific.” She replied, turning herself back to the wall of options so she wouldn’t have to confront any further embarrassment of hinting reactions.

Her delicate fingers were weighing up two different options, a delicate breathy material of boxers or a more secure fitting pair. The first one would be good for sleepwear, whilst the other was more suited for everyday use. She knew there was already a ten-pack of similar types to the latter, but the quality of this singular piece was making it difficult to pick. Both were pulled off the shelf together as she decided not picking was the best choice. She knew her Father’s card wasn’t exactly going to have a limitation at such a decent priced establishment.

Once she spun back to look at Tyler she could see he had been waiting for their gazes to match up again. “But you did talk to me. You helped me even.” He spoke gently.

Dropping the underwear atop the enormous mound she’d created in Tyler’s arms she tried not to fall for his puppy dog eyes. He wasn’t even requesting anything from her, but he still had that glint she was prone to folding for. It made her even more frustrated to cover up anything else that tried to bubble up.

“Your incompetence and ability to drive was what kept me around.” Wednesday reminded him.

Her body naturally tried to escape from him, but unsurprisingly, he continued to follow her. The list she had created had every box now ticked which meant they could leave, and she was thrusting herself forward to get towards the large sign that read ‘registers’.

“I would have run away with you if I could.” Tyler commented, his pace managing to keep up with her.

“Even though you’d just met me?” She said with disbelief while still stampeding through the walkway.

It was almost as if his steps were mimicking hers, the pattern falling in just behind her. He was like some long shadow that would forever cling against Wednesday, a black unmoveable tar seeping against her skin, and she considered that would be the way of their imaginary contract. It was the price of having a devoted monster companion.

“Anyone that was determined to leave Jericho already had a lot in common with me.” Tyler’s tone was becoming more strained, the weight pressing down on his arms and quick movements of his legs beginning to drain him.

“What was keeping you there?” She investigated.

Wednesday should have known the answer, even a fool with a simple understanding of Tyler’s true character would know. It wasn’t as if she was the first person he was chained to. Just the thought of that deranged woman made her jaw tighten and usually it was the wicked crazies that she admired.

“Laurel mainly.” He confirmed Wednesday’s obvious assumption. “But also, my dad. I was all he had.” Tyler’s voice was almost just a murmur, but Wednesday could hear him clearly even over all the external chatter from random strangers.

She began to regret even continuing the topic. It was obviously a sore spot for Tyler and in such an uncontrolled environment having any kind of accidents would end catastrophically. Wednesday had to trust that it was only a minuscule scratch at the persona she had requested he uphold for the time being.

Joining the end of the small line up to the counters, Wednesday slowed herself down before glancing back at Tyler who seemed to have a neutral expression, but she was not one to take chances unless they were excitingly reckless. “Let’s avoid sensitive topics.” Wednesday shut down any further possible developments with the command.

The human que moved gradually, a rhythm of moving forward a few steps then stopping and repeating went on a few times. Most of the people in front of them only had a few items and so they moved on at a reasonable pace, encouraging the two of them closer until they reached one of the cashiers.

“Hello there!” An unfamiliar accent loudly spoke into their faces as Tyler carefully placed down the massive pile of items. “A big shopping trip I see!” The enquiry into their lives began. It was something Wednesday felt they had no need to share or be honest about, she was just some random person with a nametag Wednesday cared not to read.

“His house burnt down leaving all his possessions as ash.” Wednesday created a false narrative.

The worker’s face dropped instantly. The overly wide smile that was surely painful tugged downwards until it was more similar to a frown. Her syrup-coloured eyes also expanded with shock as she glanced between the two teenagers.

“I am so sorry.” She whispered.

Every item that scanned after her apology sounded extra loud against Tyler’s ears. It was absolutely not necessary for Wednesday to have said that. It may have been better to say nothing at all. He, however, was not going to criticize her and create any extra unneeded drama over a story this woman would likely just recite to her co-workers once they’d walked away and eventually forget about.

“Your total is $333.” She said while avoiding eye contact.

Pulling out a dark card from her jacket pocket, Wednesday inserted the small rectangle into the device that was pointed towards her. “The economy is a joke.” She remarked whilst pressing the four-digit number into the small keypad, which would allow the purchase to go through.

Tyler shifted behind Wednesday so he could get on the side where the two large bags sat. With a yank he pulled both away from the register so they could tug on his slightly hurting arms once again. At least the thin plastic bag distributed the weight a little better, but he still felt the stress.

“Have a- Good luck to you!” Her practiced phrase was stumbled over as the payment was accepted.

With her usual blank face, Wednesday took off, heading for the exit. Tyler did what he had been doing all day, perhaps all their relationship almost, and tracked behind her. She had become more sluggish with her pace, noting that they had finished everything faster than she had anticipated.

“Why did you lie to her?” Tyler spoke up, curious.

Crossing her arms across her chest, Wednesday stopped in the middle of the open pathway. She waited until Tyler’s movements went quiet as well to look back at him. There was still the rosy tint to his skin, and his fingers were gradually turning an even darker shade of pink that began to shift borderline purple from the pressure of the bag handles.

“Let’s not judge people for lying Tyler.” Wednesday subtly threw shade at him. “It was none of her business.” She explained plainly.

Giving a confirming nod, Tyler accepted that as a suitable answer. Wednesday was not one to share her personal life unless it was somehow relevant for one to know and he understood saying the truth would sound almost as absurd. In a way it wasn’t completely wrong though. Tyler had lost everything the day his father turned him in. Not that he didn’t deserve it after all the damage that had been done.

“Lurch won’t be here for another ten minutes. Let’s get you something to eat.” Wednesday suddenly suggested, her dark eyes looking past Tyler and picking up on a small cafe near the way they’d used to come in.

“You spent a lot on me already, I think I can just suck it up and eat what your family serves next time.” Tyler tried to reject her kind gesture.

Humble wasn’t the first word that came to mind when Wednesday glared at Tyler’s boyish face, but it seemed to be a theme when her family had been offering things. She guessed it was something to do with his belief he was the one who owed and not worthy to receive, however, his energy was clearly depleting, and she preferred having a functional monster at her side.

“Their meals are usually more comparable to the average household. They just wanted to spoil you.” She disclosed.

Wednesday was sure that if Tyler had animal ears they would have drooped, but since he wasn’t literally a puppy, he instead had to just pull down the corners of his flushed lips. The word adorable came to her mind, but she waved away the term as it was not something she’d ever utter.

“Well now I feel bad.” He muttered.

“Don’t.” Wednesday countered. “You didn’t ask them to do that for you.”

She’d said something similar to Enid before in regard to the rules of friendship. That was a trek she was still navigating and felt far from fully grasping. Although their relationship had taught her a lot it was her first real encounter with companionship outside of her family. Of course, at the time there was also Eugene who she lost too much time with and Tyler, who now stood before her looking as harmless as the day they’d met.

Tired of seeing his face she stormed towards the cafe, scanning the menu in case he still tried to reject her rare kindness. Seeing Enid and Eugene’s faces in her mind she considered if having Tyler by her side was a good thing. It was beneficial to her plea for power of course, but he’d deeply hurt the both of them, whether he was in control of himself or not.

She felt so torn and it made her seethe with more frustration.

“Hurry up and order.” She commanded Tyler, pushing him roughly ahead of her so he was the one practically pressed against the countertop.

He was a little hesitant still, but he felt the yank at his hyde and knew he had to settle on something quickly. With nervous eyes he landed on an item sitting behind the glass display. It would ensure they didn’t have to wait long and the flaky texture was calling to his taste buds. He hadn’t had anything other than meat for quite some time.

“Could I please get-” Tyler began to request as the aproned worker stepped in front of him.

“Tyler! Is that you?” She cut him off, her voice full of excitement.

Fear nearly froze Tyler stone cold. Looking at her features now he knew those tight curls and emerald eyes. Her olive skin seemed to be more tanned than he remembered, but he could blame that on the cloudy skies that taunted Jericho.

“I think you’ve got the wrong person.” He attempted to lie, timidly shifting the bag handles in his sweaty palms.

“Tyler Galpin, don't play around with me.” She dropped his full name, only making the worry worsen.

They had worked together back at the Weathervane before she got the chance to move away. He’d envied her ability to escape from the suffocating town. Although they weren’t close, he knew she could read people like a book and would be able to tell he was lying, even if she wasn’t already completely sure of who he was.

“You caught me.” Tyler tried to play it off as a joke, flashing a small smile briefly.

From behind him he could feel a tug on his wrinkled dress shirt. Wednesday had pinched the material and was urging for his attention. The hold was extremely tight and he could almost feel the intensity radiating off of her without even having to see her.

“Tyler this is bad.” Wednesday huffed against his back.

He was well aware that this was an undesirable situation they were now placed in. His body that was trying to remain calm started to feel extra hot and sweaty, his already hard-working heart beginning to sprint. They would certainly need to rush out of the centre as soon as this encounter finished.

“I know.” He mumbled over his shoulder in response.

“I can’t believe you finally left that creepy town.” She brought his focus back to her.

Placing on his friendly mask, Tyler pretended he couldn’t feel the drip of sweat trailing down the side of his face or the dragging of Wednesday’s strong hold. His lips turned back upwards as if he were pleasantly engaged in whatever it was she had to say.

“Things happen.” He responded a little dryly but maintained his grin.

Her palms pressed against the counter as she leaned toward Tyler ever so slightly, proving she was interested in his sudden appearance. The context of their encounter was completely thrown out the window on her end and Tyler too almost forgot he was only standing in front of her because of a pastry.

“How is your father?” She still continued to pry.

“He’s the same.” Tyler reacted quickly with an automatic response.

A small sarcastic gasp escaped from her glossy lips in return. Her playful character was in full swing and made Tyler regret walking over to the small stand. As much as he previously would have enjoyed seeing a familiar face, being a jailbreaking criminal meant only bad things could come from it.

“I’m surprised he let you move away before you graduated.”

“Order.” Wednesday jabbed her fist, still full of his shirt's fabric, against the middle of his back.

Tyler tried not to wince at the hit, only allowing his hazel eye to twitch. He could feel the weighted bags beginning to slip from his clammy grip as she waited with anticipation for further discussion. Tyler was not ready to talk about his father in depth right now, let alone with the added stress of Wednesday literally pushing him.

“I’d love to chat but I’m in a bit of a rush.” He spoke through a pained breath, still preserving his face as the boy she would have known.

“My bad!” She flicked her hand up exaggeratedly. “What’s your order?”

After all the chaos Tyler nearly forgot his order, the presence of Wednesday behind him and the recognition of who he was from the girl in front of him had him a little dazed. He had to not panic because that would only make things extremely worse. With a sharp inhale he refreshed his mind to picture the croissant he’d wanted.

“The cheese pastry please.” Tyler requested, gesturing with his head.

“Easy peasy!” She said overly enthusiastically whilst tapping into her machine. It was just a food order. “That will be $4.20.” She read out from the machine, pushing the payment gadget closer to Tyler.

Snaking along the side of Tyler’s body, Wednesday pressed the card into a gap between his fingers that were still clinging onto the heavy piles of clothing they’d retrieved. He instinctively then moved it up to press against the top of the appliance. The machine let out a small vibration of acceptance and he lowered his arm back to his side.

She hadn’t noticed where the black card had come from because her eyes were too creased with a pleasant smile to notice the pale hand that suddenly appeared. All she was focused on was hearing the accepting beep that meant the payment went through successfully and maybe getting a peek at the tip of a scar on his chest.

“Please just wait over there for your order.” She directed Tyler to the other end of the counter where the collection of shiny silver coffee machines sat.

Giving an acknowledging nod, Tyler began to move, Wednesday now acting as his shadow and remaining behind him. Her fingers had released their hold on his shirt the moment the instructions were given, but she almost regretted letting go because it was giving her something to squeeze in relation to her annoyance.

“We need to leave immediately.” Wednesday spoke softly to the boy who was now twisting himself around to face her.

“I don’t think it was made public that I’m supposed to be in prison.” Tyler responded to her concerns.

It was the unsure use of language he used that made Wednesday not any more comfortable. She could easily just leave him behind for his food she had foolishly offered to avoid being seen with him and somehow roped into anything, but she remained still, staring up at him with something other than just irritation.

“Are you certain?” Wednesday dug.

Tyler’s face scrunched up a little. He honestly wasn’t aware of what had happened outside of his holding cell and after reaching Wednesday’s residence no efforts to collect such information had been made by either of them. Once they returned to the Addam’s home he was going to head straight to her computer, with permission, and figure out whether they had any reason to be worried.

“I’m not entirely sure.” He croaked, shifting the plastic handles once again in his slippery palms. “If she has connections back to Jericho, we are both f-”

“Order for Tyler!” She cut him short once again.

His back was facing her, and he nearly didn’t bother turning around, wanting to instead run away, but the tumbling of his stomach encouraged the quest for sustenance. Returning to his sweet expression he approached her, hoping she wouldn’t pick up on how warm his body was becoming from the uneasiness he was experiencing.

As he glanced down to the items in her well moisturized fingers, he noticed there was something other than the now warmed up meal. In her left hand she curled around a presumably hot cup of coffee. The small wave of heat radiating from the sipping hole implying his assumption would be correct.

“I didn’t order this.” He said confused.

“Don’t worry it’s on the house!” She pushed the container away from her body, giving a quick wink with her long lashes.

Tyler didn’t want to make any assumptions about what she was laying down, but after the careful attention to body language he’d learnt from assessing Wednesday, there were implications of flirting in her behaviour. Usually something like that wouldn’t bother him, he got it quite often whilst working in hospitality himself, but a sense of guilt made him hesitate to reach out with his arms that now held the shopping using his wrists.

“Thank you.” He resorted to his learnt response to anything kind done for him.

From her view Wednesday could see he hadn’t yet gone to grab the food he’d been offered, and she really cared not to stay there for any longer with this clingy girl. Stepping around him she yanked both the coffee and pastry out of the server's hands, glaring back at him for pausing when they needed to get moving.

“Walk.” She ordered with light anger in her tone.

Immediately Tyler went to leave, heading for the exit that was close by. He’d not seen or heard Wednesday that aggravated since she confronted him about being the hyde. It didn’t frighten him per say, but it did make him wonder if her niceties were all used up already after their short reunion. The people-heavy environment really messed with her more than he had anticipated.

“I didn’t realize you had a friend with you. Sorry for not introducing myself, I'm-.” She tried to start a new conversation with the cold stared girl who had already taken a step away from the shop to continue on the same path as Tyler.

“We’re leaving.” Wednesday didn’t let her finish, not caring to even spare a glare back at her.

Tyler caught his bottom lip with his teeth, trying not to freak out about how that may have increased their chances at her then looking him up after her shift. He pulled on the power of the command to act like the cool-headed version of himself so the last few moments they were stranded in such a public space he wouldn’t crack and return to the broken boy he truly was.

“You being sour might not have been a good idea.” He criticized as they stepped into the open air. The teasing breeze was how he imagined entering the afterlife would be like, a wave of relief flowing over him.

Instead of quipping back at him, Wednesday simply said, “Lurch is waiting for us.”

Chapter Text

The ride back to the Addam’s family home was painfully quiet. The energy had completely shifted since their initial venture out towards where the sun did actually shine. This was far worse than being in that stuffy department store. It wasn’t just the silence of it that left a strange vibration through Tyler’s bones, but the nerves he’d been denying himself from feeling were beginning to spill over in his mind.

Unconsciously Tyler began gnawing at his own fingernails. He’d had his mouth busier before with the croissant he’d had, but he needed to keep some kind of consistent motion to ground himself. A slight tinge of earthy flavour bloomed along his tongue as whatever had been lurking underneath the surface had been released with his nervous movements.

He wanted to calm himself down as he had been requested to do so but after running into someone from his past he couldn’t help but fight against the command that was trying to restrict him. It was a battle between his hyde instincts and the logical part of his still very much human brain that knew that encounter could have terrible consequences.

It was partly Wednesday’s fault for snapping right before they could leave the area unscathed, but mainly Tyler’s fault for allowing himself to be recognised. Whether Wednesday had been rude or not, the likelihood that his old coworker was going to call back home to check in how things are, was still pretty high.

At least she hadn’t been around when Wednesday had been regularly visiting his old cafe. If she didn’t know who Wednesday was, then there shouldn’t be any trouble arriving at the door. That was unless she decided to ask anyone she called in Jericho about a short girl with black braids and a sharp tongue that may know Tyler.

His eyes briefly traced over her, starting from the black that adorned her shoulders all the way down the thick shoes that covered her feet. It was all practically the same shade, perhaps a few small differences in the undertones or textures, but she was still her usual void self. The only thing that contrasted all that darkness was the paleness of her skin, almost making her look like she was completely desaturated.

After a few moments of staring directly at Wednesday, she twisted her neck to meet his panicked gaze. During the majority of the trip he’d been glancing around the nicely kept interior of the vehicle and taking in the flashing colours of the outside world as they sped through the side streets and further into the tree line, but now they were acknowledging one another.

“You’re already snacking? Was that sandwich not enough?” Wednesday interrupted their swelling uncomfortable silence.

Tyler furrowed his brows first. The only thing that he currently had his teeth nipping down on was the end of his own fingertips, which wasn’t even the juicy part of his hand if he did decide to engage in self-cannibalism.

“I’m not snacking on anything.” He said whilst still holding part of his own hard nail between his front teeth.

Wednesday didn’t seem particularly impressed, although she never really seemed that impressed unless something pretty special happened. Most of her reactions were painfully dulled, a completely different kind of scale from anyone else that had the ability to move their facial features. Her mouth was simply for speaking it seemed, not smiling or really frowning either.

“Your fingernails.” Wednesday clarified, nodding her head towards Tyler’s now jagged tips. “Pugsley loves to eat his own when he’s feeling peckish.”

Fighting his natural response of cringing at the gross behaviour, partly because who was he to judge when he was practically doing the same thing in that very moment and partly because he didn’t want to accidentally insult anyone else in the Addam’s family after his pathetic reaction after their first meal together, Tyler huffed. “I’m not hungry Wednesday. I’m nervous.”

“About what?” Her body leaned further back against the rich leather cushioning of the Addam’s car, hand teasing around where the eject button was sitting, not that Tyler likely knew what the buttons meant.

Wednesday wasn’t too sure what had Tyler acting like her own Brother, but she too still felt uncomfortable after going through the people riddled shopping mall, and not in a good way. It was like a thin layer of human soup had been lathered along her figure after sharing the same air as all those heavily scented bodies and stores.

It was almost suffocating, and she was very familiar with suffocating, whether she had inflicted it on others or she was testing her own ability to survive it.

Rather than answer her question, Tyler came back with one of his very own. “Can I use your computer?”

“What makes you think I have one?” She countered him.

With his palms now cradled in his own lap after abusing them enough, Tyler blinked rapidly at Wednesday. It was well known that she was quite behind on the technology front, but she did still attend classes that surely required it. Education was mainly taught these days with access to the internet in mind.

“Don’t you need one for school?” He peered at her as the car’s tires squeaked to a stop.

Dusting off her skirt in preparation to exit the vehicle, Wednesday replied. “My Brother has a laptop, but personally I wouldn’t want to touch it with a three-foot sword.”

That was true. Pugsley really was a character, as were all of her family members, but he in particular was some strange amalgamation of all of them. Plus, it was her job as his older sister to poke fun at him when the opportunity presented itself, whether literally or simply through her words.

The both of them made their way out of the car after Lurch had opened up the backseat. Tyler had let Wednesday go first because that was the gentlemanly thing to do but he wasn’t far behind. He still had to be aware of the trouble that could be following after him.

“I want to know if there’s any information about me online.” He provided as they began the trek up the pitch-black coloured staircase.

“Please, you’re not that special.” She gave without a moment of hesitation in her powerful steps.

That should have hurt Tyler because he did want to be something special to her, but somehow it comforted him. Perhaps after finding out about his true self and having that part of him abused until he was the talk of the town had gotten to his head a little in a negative way, but at the end of the day he wasn’t the only hyde, he wasn’t the only outcast that walked the very earth they were on. Maybe though, he was the only recent serial killer that was an outcast.

The sound of strained plastic followed behind them. Tyler quickly looked over his shoulder to see Lurch trying to grab all of the different bags that they’d abandoned with the car. He’d almost completely forgotten about their shopping trip, and the compliment he’d been quietly given, because he’d become too clouded with concern to remember why they were even out in the public eye.

“I mean about my arrest, Wednesday.” Tyler’s voice came out lower than he’d been speaking previously. He wasn’t even sure why he was hiding it when the small gathering of people he was now staying with already knew his history.

“Right.” Wednesday finally paused, turning back towards Tyler before she went to open the front door. It was such a tall structure that seeing her give it a nonchalant nudge forward seemed silly, and yet, it clicked open. “Well, be quick.” She requested after stepping over the threshold, her shoe clicking against the polished floor. “I have something planned for you later.”

There was a slight flash in her otherwise lifeless eyes. Tyler could have blamed it on the dim light of the sun trying to break through the thick clouds that swallowed the Addam’s home, but he knew it looked more like excitement. It was something he’d been able to capture less than a handful of times after spending however many hours with Wednesday.

“A little ominous.” He uttered, nerves only burning even more.

Rotating around so she was completely face to face with Tyler, the ground crying out from beneath her from the abruptness of the movement, Wednesday pointed her arm up towards the ceiling. “My Brother’s room is on the opposite side to mine. I give you permission to hyde out to protect yourself if needed. Your human flesh looks a little too soft to deal with some of the things he may have ready to fire off at anyone who tries to enter.”

Now his false confidence was really slipping. The number of surprises that had been waiting for him at the home of the family that had produced Wednesday had been expected, he just hadn’t expected it to be so hard for him to navigate everything. His ego was thoroughly being crushed every time he couldn’t keep up with their antics.

Still, he went up to the young boy’s room.

He wasn’t too sure what the right kind of etiquette would be. It wasn’t like he’d ever really spoken to the kid before one on one and Wednesday’s warning was not something he was about to take lightly. If there were daggers, swinging axes, or guns before he got his hands on a laptop, this was going to make the otherwise simple task of getting internet access excruciating.

At least he’d been given the green light to transform. Although, once he was in that state, he wasn’t too sure how much control he would still have and whether Wednesday would be able to direct him as clearly. While in the Addam’s house at least he would hope that they’re better equipped than him even in that form so he wouldn’t accidentally hurt anyone. A bit ironic if he was only doing it to protect himself from said people though.

Deciding on the traditional method of announcing oneself, Tyler gave a string of knocks against the old wooden door. He didn’t hear any kind of clicking like there might have been if a gun was being loaded, nor the straining of string as an arrow was aimed, there was only the echo of his own rhythmic pounding.

“Hey, Pugsley.” He spoke loudly against the rough material so the kid knew exactly who was attempting to grab his attention.

Quickly, quicker than Tyler could properly process, the entrance to the room was ripped open and right in front of him stood Pugsley. The same striped shirt that he’d seen earlier at the table was still wrapped around his torso. “Hello Wednesday’s pet monster.” He greeted him.

“Pet monster?” He repeated back at him.

“I hate to break it to you, but my sister doesn’t have friends.” Pugsley scoffed, crossing his arms in front of his chest and puffing himself up so he appeared a bit larger than his early teen self really was. “Unless Nevermore really changed her whole brain network.”

Tyler wasn’t too sure if this was just the way Pugsley usually behaved or if this was some kind of behaviour reserved just for him. He hadn’t intended on stepping on anyone’s toes by coming here, to the Addam’s family home, although he could recognise the burden he was putting onto Wednesday’s surely already weighted shoulders.

Friends was a word reserved for people that weren’t forced to care for each other. As much as Tyler hoped that Wednesday did actually not mind his company, their current arrangement was out of the ordinary. He was either about to be used like he had been in the past to help with her strange fascinations or Wednesday was going to actually put the pieces of him back together in some twisted Wednesday kind of way.

“I’ll have to hope she tolerates me a little then.” Tyler twitched a half smile.

Scared by his expression it seems, the kid took two steps away from him, giving Tyler the space to step into the room not that he’d been properly invited in yet. “What is it you wanted anyway?”

“Can I please quickly use your laptop?” He used his best manners.

Pugsley analysed Tyler’s body carefully. It’s like he could see not only through the clothes that he’d been lent, but even further past his skin and straight at the organs that lay beneath. He could tell the kid couldn’t actually see his uneven beating heart as his chest drummed though because his aim was a bit off. Tyler would know. 

“As long as you don’t look up anything weird.” Pugsley decided on, letting his back face Tyler as he went further into his room.

“I don’t know what you consider weird, but I just need to quickly check something.” Tyler attempted to reassure him.

“Alright, but I’ll be watching you.” He pointed two of his fingers towards his own eyes before directing them right back at Tyler’s shrugged stance.

The smell hit him then. He didn’t know how he hadn’t noticed it before after standing in the doorway, but it was stinging his nose the moment he pulled his body full into the boy’s bedroom. The most prominent scents were gunpowder and some kind of rotting alongside the undertones of dirt and general teenage boy stink.

He wanted to remain polite, ignoring the watering of his eyes as he went towards where he could see the laptop sitting. It was a simple, quite small, desk with the electronic device resting atop it. Beside the set up was a much larger desk, but it was riddled with wood chips, the shine of some kind of metal, and all kinds of coloured electric wiring.

Carefully avoiding the tips of any of the cords, Tyler hunched himself over the chair that was positioned in front of the laptop. He almost would have sat on it if he hadn’t noticed the thin needles that were covering almost the entirety of where a cushion should have been.

Opening up the laptop screen, the device creaked at him. It had either been well used from study or had the little shards of whatever was right next to him jammed into all of its joints. He was just glad that his expression was soon illuminated by a screen that immediately unlocked, he’d been a bit worried that it wasn’t going to tick to life.

“Ah.” Tyler clicked his tongue, eyes scanning over the content that was currently glaring him right in the face. It certainly wasn’t the worst thing that could have been awaiting him, but the bluntness of it still took him by surprise. “Easiest way to make grenades.” He verbalised the search.

“It’s useful information.” Giving an unbothered shrug, Pugsley responded.

“Riiight.” Tyler dragged out the word.

Fighting the urge to run away from the hazard beside him, Tyler straightened up his shoulders and gently placed his fingertips against the clicky keys. Some of the letters had been rubbed off, whether it happened by force or from constant use over time he was not too sure. Using his memory from school, after spending many an hour on his own laptop, he recalled where each character should be placed.

Gradually the three words that he had been intending to search for had been typed into the search bar. Before hitting enter to complete the action though, he sat on the slow blinking of the cursor for a few moments to prepare himself. There were only two possible results once he finally clicked through and he certainly preferred one of them.

With a breath out, the weight of it joining the dense air that was around the young teen’s room, Tyler finally hit enter.

The results painfully creeped in through the terrible internet connection. Not much of a surprise when the Addam’s home was so secluded from everything else. Strings of text stretched across the screen and his eyes began to scan the content carefully, looking for specific words that could lead to consequence.

“Did you just look up your own name?” Pugsley criticised.

Contrary to his fears, there wasn’t much at all in the various links that popped up. There was one direct mention of him when someone was referring to his old place of work, but nothing about murder, his outcast ability, or anything else of that negative nature that could raise red flags if one was to try and find him online.

“I want to know if it’s been made public that I'm a serial killer.” He replied awfully casually for the subject matter.

Pugsley tsked and shook his head. “Disappointing.”

“What?” Tyler looked back over his shoulder at the boy who was almost half his age.

Sleeping under the same roof as other potential murderers and being nervous was a little hypocritical from Tyler but he couldn’t fight the shiver that ran along his spine at the thought of it. There was a particular sharpness to it that confused him though. It was almost like excitement at the kinship even though that possibility could be a problem for him as an outsider. Not that he’d felt anything like that with how the family had treated him so far.

Within just under one full day, he’d been offered a place to stay, been lent Wednesday’s own bed, taken shopping for a fresh full set of clothing, and offered a special family meal, even if it was a bit too much for his own tastes. This type of kindness wouldn’t be given by most, especially not to someone as twisted as him, but that’s exactly why he’d fit right in with their own alternative lifestyle.

“You didn’t even get any recognition.” Pugsley gestured at the screen, voice cracking subtly.

Bringing himself back up so he was properly standing again, Tyler slightly towered over the kid. His chubby cheeks were a complete ruse when compared to the state of the room that they were both residing in. The scent and stained workbench combined with what Tyler had gathered was far closer to what would have been expected of a serial killer.

“I was kind of hoping that’s what I’d find.” Tyler shrugged.

“Oh.” The sad expression that had been pulled against Pugsley’s features promptly fell after his comment. Tyler could tell he at least was far more in tune with his facial reactions in comparison to his sister, even if they were because of an interesting reason. “Well then good for you.”

“Thanks.” His hand went out to pat the other boy’s shoulder, but he pulled it back towards himself before it could get too far. It was a common movement between two guys of a similar-ish age, but Tyler knew it was better to keep to himself than accidentally cross a line and risk a limb. “I’m done now.”

Before taking up any more of the kid’s time and having to deal with the thick smell that was sure to cling on to him until his next bathing opportunity, Tyler slid past Pugsley towards the door he’d come in through. It was still wide open as neither of them had closed it after Tyler’s abrupt arrival that had gone far smoother than he’d expected.

“Come back anytime you want to try making weapons.” Pugsley called after him.

Stopping in his tracks, right before he would have brought his whole body back into the hallway, Tyler spun back around to give a thumbs up. “Will do.”

He saw a glimpse of a smile growing on the young teen’s face before he continued on his journey back towards Wednesday’s bedroom. It was safe to assume that was where he would have to report to since it was practically the only room he’d really come to know so far. Although as he made his way across the upstairs area that was clean and yet had touches of spider webs and other notes of bug activity, a simple white piece of paper waited for him on the door.

It had been typed out on a typewriter, which wasn’t too surprising for Wednesday. “I’ll be waiting for you at the bottom of the staircase. Come alone or else.” Tyler muttered out the words that had been pressed into the white paper. It wasn’t like he would have anyone he’d willingly want to bring along, but he knew the threat was just part of her vocabulary.

Following the written command, Tyler made his way down the curved staircase. It wasn’t like the bottom was all that far from the starting point of the note but perhaps this was some kind of game that Wednesday was trying to play with him or possibly even a test of his loyalty even through print.

The moment his foot came into contact with the hard texture of the main floor, his body was being pulled into one of the most prominent shadows in the area. It was near black, but Wednesday’s pale complexion still reflected some of the limited light that managed to reach into the moody home.

“Why d-” Tyler began before a small pointer finger was pressed against the middle of his mouth.

“I’m hiding from my family. Keep your voice low.” Wednesday explained, pulling back her hand and wiping the residue from his lips, that she had been the one to touch, against his own borrowed shirt.

Feeling he’d gotten away too easily from Pugsley, Tyler whispered with a sharper panicked tone. “Your brother isn’t going to try and make me explode, is he?”

There wasn’t much to really see where they were both standing but Tyler still tried to search for Wednesday’s eyes. It was like searching for a drop of water in the ocean since she had such dark irises, yet he did it anyway. There was something thrilling about speaking in hushed tones in the shadows, but he still liked to see Wednesday’s face when she spoke.

“I can’t promise anything.” She did nothing to reassure him.

“Great.” Tyler added sarcastically.

If he truly was in danger there was a chance he could transform before the damage could really be done but he wasn’t too sure how well his hyde form would go up against an explosive. Even though he had long talons and sharp teeth, that was not going to protect him from manmade metal that was made to destroy.

His shoulder ached a little as he thought about it. The wounds had long healed over as they seemed to do so quickly but he could feel the pressure, the power of the bullet ripping through his body. It hurt more than anything Enid could have done because of the man behind the trigger. He knew it had to be done, that he was in the wrong, but that didn’t make it sting any less.

“Are you ready?” Wednesday pulled him out from his spiral before he could really begin.

Tyler blinked into the darkness where he hoped Wednesday was standing. “For what?”

If they were about to attack someone in Wednesday’s family, Tyler would have appreciated the heads up. He wasn’t too into the idea of harming anyone who had so far treated him with nothing but kindness, especially if he was asked to use his stronger form. Tyler just wasn’t sure why else would they be lurking around like this if not for the element of surprise or secrecy.

“I wanted to start your training.” She only fed further into his ideas, Tyler preparing himself to use the adrenaline that had been pumping through his veins ever since he’d knocked on Pugsley’s bedroom door, ever since he’d run into his old co-worker.

“Oh, right.” He said with more breath than usual, blending the line between man and monster, waiting for the call. “What are we doing first boss?”

“It’s a surprise.” She helpfully responded.

Usually surprises were allocated for birthday parties or other joyous occasions, but Tyler wasn’t expecting this to be anything of the sort. This was the kind of jumpscare that would happen in the middle of a haunted house. To be fair though, he was currently in a pretty haunting house, so it wasn’t too out of character.

“A surprise from you will surely be interesting.” He added a little nervously.

Finally, Wednesday stepped forward a bit, her frame becoming more illuminated, the same wide stare burning into Tyler. “You have no idea.”

Keeping him on his toes, Wednesday darted behind him. She was now completely out in the usual dimness of the home, leading Tyler somewhere. He didn’t even need to be told to follow her silent footsteps though, it was just second nature at that point.

The Addam’s house was still a new location to Tyler so as they made a few turns he was becoming a little dizzy. If he was asked to find his way back to the very stop they’d only left from not long ago he wasn’t sure he’d be able to get there. Which was pretty confusing because they truly hadn’t gone that far, there were just so many different and oddly sharp points they’d gone past.

“We’re nearly at the primary dungeon.” Wednesday announced.

“The what?” Tyler squeaked, the severity of what was possibly planned making him sweatier.

Shrugging her shoulders as she continued to move down the dark hallway, Wednesday casually responded. “We need to start somewhere, right?”

She worked in extremes, this was something that Tyler had acknowledged a while ago, so he knew he shouldn’t have expected anything different for his training. It still set his nerves alight though. Knowing they were going to a place with a few specific things that might trigger negative memories was pushing him closer to the edge.

Taking calculated breaths Tyler continued to mimic the same steps that Wednesday was taking. He kept the same distance behind her, still cautious of the closeness rule she had established previously. Even if it hadn’t been a command, he was sure that he would have obeyed the restriction regardless. He understood exactly how it felt to feel crowded, constrained, and uncomfortable.

A drop of sweat trickled down his forehead as they began moving down the stairs. It was typical of a dungeon to be in the lower quarters, so it wasn’t much of a reach for him to assume they were about to arrive. Then there was also the slight hint of iron that he could smell. Whether it was from the metal itself or mystery remains, both options kept him in that tense state.

Wordlessly, Wednesday pushed open a door. There hadn’t even been a lock from what he could see in the shadowy space. All he knew was that they were crowded in darkness and then a filthy looking fluorescent light flickered on as they moved from the hallway into what must have been the dungeon. The colour it produced looked sickly, but it illuminated enough of the mainly black room with a few red accents.

Based on a scent he’d caught before he could guess why they’d decided to use such dark shades even though he wasn’t entirely sure about how dark the Addam’s family really were. Obviously they were literally different shades of grey in the way they dressed but just because someone liked a dark aesthetic, that didn’t necessarily mean that it crept into their soul.

Wednesday was tough, Tyler was well aware. She enjoyed the dirty and ugly and dangerous in ways that a lot of people wouldn’t, but he’d also seen the softness hidden underneath that incredibly hard shell. She could worry, she could care, she could love, even if he happened to snap that branch of trust she’d stretched out.

Letting his mind wander alongside the visuals he was taking in, the glistening of the chains and the stains against the blades, Tyler could practically feel his skin vibrating. He was trying his best to remain in his human form, to behave like he’d been told to, but he was just a scared kid deep down underneath all of that arrogance and power.

Clearing his tightening throat, Tyler broke the silence that had fallen naturally between them. “You know this isn’t calming my nerves.”

Wednesday finally turned back to him, giving her full attention to the jittery man that was standing across from her. Her face was as unreadable as usual, so Tyler waited for her words as she circled around him. The light blinked a few more times, leaving one gap big enough that suddenly Wednesday was mere inches away from Tyler’s face by the time it had returned.

Tyler jumped back instinctively and the back of his thigh came into contact with a rough wooden surface. The force led him to simply lose his standing, falling back against the object he’d just come into contact with. To his relief, or perhaps despair, he realised that he’d just sat himself on one of the chairs that were scattered across the large, relatively open, space.

“I don’t need you to be calm anymore.” She finally replied, standing over where Tyler had accidentally sat himself. By the way she’d been moving before it was clearly her intention for him to end up there, the theory only solidified by her next words. “Cuff yourself.”

He should have noticed it before. It wasn’t just any standard wooden dining chair, no, it had metal curling around different parts of it. The silver curved pieces had rattled a bit when he’d first fallen, and now, they sat open and waited for him to click them closed. There wasn’t much of a choice in the matter since he’d been clearly asked to do it by his current master.

“Not even going to warm me up.” He tried to use humour to deal with the fear that was steadily building inside of him. It wasn’t born from just what Wednesday had in store for him, but for what he, what it, might do in retaliation.

“I prefer going hard first.” Wednesday said a little too seriously, reaching forward to lock down the other arm he wouldn’t have been able to trap himself with after restraining the first one.

The metal was already digging into his wrists a bit, but he focused on holding his control. Nothing had even happened yet; it was all in his head. The sensation just happened to stir up some less than pleasant memories, especially once the two leg cuffs had also been snapped closed.

Skipping a few steps because he presumed that’s what ‘hard’ really was, Tyler questioned what Wednesday had insinuated. “Are you testing if I can break out of these by changing form?”

“I didn’t say what I was going to do yet.” She shut him down immediately.

The anticipation continued to build as Wednesday stepped away from him into an area that was hard for him to see clearly with how he was positioned. Hidden underneath all of the panic though, was something else. It was only a hint, but he still noticed it. There was excitement. Tyler couldn’t tell if that was coming from his own thoughts or perhaps those of the beast, but it was there regardless.

“Close your eyes.” Wednesday softly commanded from behind him, her voice taking him by surprise. It wasn’t the presence of it that made his hand stand up, but instead the tone of it. 

He didn’t have a choice in the matter, so he squeezed his eyes shut.

Having one less sense taken away from him made it harder for him to concentrate on containing himself. His ears were hyper focused on the hissing noises that he could hear Wednesday creating, his skin feeling the roughness of the iron pressing down on his wrists and ankles, even his nose was taking in the subtle changes.

Previously depriving himself of sight might have allowed him to drift into a different scenario, a type of escapism, but he was hyperaware now. This was the first test that Wednesday was going to use to determine his worth and if he failed then he simply might not have anything else worth trying to survive for, no one else left to please or impress.

His chest was becoming tighter. He didn’t want to disappoint Wednesday, and he knew neither did the creature lurking in the depths of his mind. It appeared there was at least one thing that they could find equal ground on, the reasoning for those behaviours a little different for him compared to the beast though.

“Wednesday, can you please get it over with.” He grunted out, fingernails digging into the ends of the chair, making the texture burrow underneath them.

After a few slow steps and a sudden change in temperature, Wednesday stood in front of him. He only knew this because he could feel her, hear her as she admitted why he’d been left hanging. “I want to see you squirm first.”

It was twisted; it was Wednesday. If this was a replay of the last time they’d been in such a scenario he was waiting for the electric shocks. He’d been able to contain himself then and he hoped he could do the same now. Pain was something he’d learnt to use for his anger but now he needed it for whatever Wednesday required. 

“You’re right. I deserve this.” Tyler muttered to himself, remembering partly why he knew their match-up was destined. He’d hurt Wednesday and people that she cared about, it was only fair she got back at him.

“You don’t even know what I’m going to do.” She reminded him, the warmth that he’d sensed before becoming a little more intense.

Swallowing down the itch that was teasing his throat, Tyler croaked his words out. “I know it’s going to hurt.”

“Correct.” That was an understatement if he was right about what Wednesday was holding. He knew he was no newbie to forms of torture, but this may just be a new one in the books for him. He’d had needles, chains, whippings, hands, electrocution, so he tensed his jaw until his muscles ached and waited for the searing.

“It’ll burn.” She verbally confirmed what he’d suspected from the changes in heat around one pinpoint in particular, the warmth only getting worse the closer he felt Wednesday shifting. “A lot.”

The final warning had been given, leading to the pain. It had almost felt freezing at first, a strange contrast to what was actually happening, but then the heat pushed through and marked its claim against his body. The end of the metal device specifically poked into his chest on the opposite side to where his older scarring sliced across.

He tried to hold in the urge to scream but groans of discomfort still managed to leak through his tight pressed lips. It vibrated right out from where the burning originated, carrying his pain directly out of his body. True to his expectations this was far different from the other kinds of agony he had been put through, and yet, he didn’t transform, he didn’t break the cuffs.

As soon as the hurt came, it was gone. The cool air pressing against the fresh wound, teasing the raw area further. Even without the pressure of the metal he could still feel the reminder of that he’d just been singed by the person he’d committed his life to.

Grabbing the bottom of his face with her other hand, Wednesday directed him towards where she stood, his face moulding to fit her harsh grip. “Look at me now Tyler.”

Chapter Text

Tyler’s chest was moving erratically, trembling exhales as he continued releasing air from his lungs. Each inhale would bring his body upwards, straining the fresh wound further. It had sizzled a little more than Wednesday had been expecting, his body’s reaction piquing her curiosity since she hadn’t had the chance to burn many people before, at least not with the prodding tool she’d just used against Tyler.

Still cupping his face, seeing his expression twitching, Wednesday gave her command whilst staring directly into Tyler’s wide eyes. “Breathe.” It came out unwavering, clear, easy to understand as he panicked.

“Fuck.” He swore, tugging against the cuffs that held him down to the sturdy wooden chair. They let out a clinking noise but remained sealed shut.

Still holding his chin in her hands, Wednesday tugged his head forward a bit so he could focus on her better. “Profanity won’t make the pain stop.” She explained the reality as he continued to thrash around.

His eyes had been trying to hold her own dark stare as it had been commanded, but his lids pressed closer to one another as he let the pain wash over and turn into anger. Under the weak light Wednesday could see just how red his body had become, not just around where his skin had been burnt, but any sliver of skin that was visible seemed to be irritated.

“Fuck off.” Tyler borderline growled at her.

Wednesday was well aware that she was poking the bear, but he’d been able to endure her torturing efforts before whilst concealing his identity, so she knew he had the ability to contain himself. Rather than physically shifting his form he instead focused all that frustration elsewhere, verbally and also against the poor chair he was partly damaging. A good thing for her to note.

“That’s not very nice.” She commented in her typical monotone voice, maintaining her grasp on his face so she had control over at least part of his figure.

Another grumbling noise came out from his throat, but this time it bubbled up from deeper in his chest. “I’m trying really hard to keep it together.” He spoke through gritted teeth.

“I told you, no transforming yet.” Wednesday ensured her words were stern, just like training a little puppy, it’s just this puppy could rip people in half. A hyde was a lot more her speed than a typical fluffy little friend though. “Focus on where it hurts the most.”

The rage that had been building up in Tyler’s expression began to shift at that. Instead of deep pressing brows, the top half of his face relaxed some more, confusion taking over where there had just been seething discomfort. It was a simple command, but he was clearly unable to comprehend why Wednesday had requested for him to really feel the burn.

“What?” He squeaked out, far less intimidating than he’d attempted to be before.

Hovering her free hand over the wound, Wednesday tested if she could still feel the heat radiating from the damaged area. There was a warmth, but it couldn’t have been that much hotter than Tyler’s usual body temperature.

“I’m testing something out.” She finally answered his choked question.

Straining his head against the back of the chair, Tyler seemed to be calming down a bit more, but his neck veins were still slightly protruding. He took a moment to catch another gulp of air before digging for further information. “What? My pain tolerance?”

“We’ll do that another day.” Wednesday dismissed as she focused on the seared section of his chest. Most of it was still visible with how low-cut his top had been left for easy access, the colour very slightly lightening up a bit more as his cells tried to repair what they could. It was a learning exercise of his healing as well as a question of how the bond operated.

“Great.” Tyler replied sarcastically.

Wednesday thought he must have been doing considerably better if he was beginning to turn back to his witty remarks. Right after being burnt had been the hardest period for him to hold control over himself. It was a battle of the mind, body and soul. What part the hyde resided in, Wednesday was not too sure, but she was enthusiastic about finding out.

“Aren’t you curious about what I just branded you with?” She crept closer to the conclusion of her impromptu lesson.

Glancing down at the device that had been used to prod him, now resting carelessly against the hard dungeon floor, Tyler squinted. “Metal.” He answered far too literally.

Holding back the urge to slap some sense into him for giving an obvious response, Wednesday decided she would be a little more patient. “No. The mark.” She clarified, using the tips of her fingers to shove the edges of his shirt further away from where the wound was so he had a better view if he hadn’t felt it.

Tyler stretched his neck out, trying to get a better look at his own chest, but he only let out another round of frustrated huffs. At least this time he wasn’t as red and tense, making Wednesday feel more confident about being so close to a man who could quite quickly turn into a considerably large beast.

She could enjoy the slight danger of him, but this was about experimentation not thrill.

“It’s hard to see from this angle.” He said after giving in.

Dragging her nails right above where the mark was, Wednesday traced it out for him before verbally confirming the shape. “It’s an A.”

“An A?” Tyler went back to that slightly pouty puzzled face he would sometimes do.

Wednesday would have to excuse his dire levels of ignorance because of how dazed he’d become after the pain. It was different to how she would have reacted to such an ache, but that was a given, what made it interesting was that it was also different from what she’d examined other people act like.

After the initial outburst of emotions, primarily anger, that Tyler had shown, he’d been very in his own head until he’d become awfully relaxed. Wednesday was no psychiatrist, but she was interested in the human brain. His reaction was an explosion that promptly turned into the calming flow of a small creek. Deflection? Possibly. Decent tolerance to torture? Also, likely.

Regardless of what she pondered, one thing was true and solid without question, she’d made their connection permanent.

“For Addam’s obviously.” She caught him up to speed, the immediate realisation leaving a sparkle in his shadowy eyes. “You’re officially my property.”

His head lifted up and down a few times as he went from where the signature ‘A’ was now pressed into his skin and Wednesday’s expressionless face. Tyler was clearly bewildered, but Wednesday caught the little things hiding underneath that as well, the extra height in his chest, the twitch at the corner of his lips.

“Little dehumanizing.” A weak laugh followed his words.

“That’s not the point. I’m trying to see how you react to being claimed.”

Staring directly into the void of Wednesday’s eyes, he took a moment to think about his answer. He’d felt the physical difference after the aching had become less present but hadn’t lingered on it too much. “Strangely.” He paused, letting his Adam’s apple bob before darting his tongue out to wet his slightly chapped lips as he prepared to finish. “Happy.”

It was pretty embarrassing for him to admit that aloud, already feeling the warmth return more noticeably to his cheeks. The burn almost rivalled that of his still cooling right breast tissue. Although Tyler thought he’d educated himself about Wednesday’s ways pretty well, he wasn’t too sure how she was going to respond to his confession.

Wednesday nodded her head subtly as she analysed what he’d said. “The hyde likes being recognised as a servant. Interesting.”

“You could have used words to test that out.” Tyler sounded a little less chipper than he had briefly, returning to being slightly disgruntled.

She could have, but she’d used plenty of verbal commands already in the short period they’d been living closely together. Wednesday had a morbid curiosity about plenty of things and something quite fascinating had crawled his way into her home, so it shouldn’t have been a surprise that she’d put a lot of dedication into figuring it all out.

Even before Tyler had revealed himself as the monster that had been tearing people apart, Wednesday had fallen into the trap of both the man and the beast. The idea of a hyde was intriguing, not just because of the damage that particular one had made, but because it was another outcast she was unfamiliar with, and in contrast the sweet guy with a bit of a sharp tongue at the coffee shop was compelling.

Wednesday still wasn’t sure which had pulled her in more in the end when it came to Tyler. Had she always known deep down what Tyler really was or did she sincerely find interest in the plain fluffy haired guy at the coffee shop that treated her well, whether that treatment was genuine or not.

Deciding to do some soul searching of her own, as it only seemed fair after asking that of Tyler, Wednesday let out a breath through her nose before disclosing her own personal, raw truth. “Admittedly I was a little frustrated today.”

“I noticed.” Tyler responded immediately.

Being vulnerable was not something Wednesday liked to be, but at the same time, having someone understand her wasn’t so terrible. It took a lot of care and effort to truly get inside of her head, and Tyler had shown he tried to get there. It did come back to the truth of his initial intentions in wanting to get to know her, but if he had kept up his rule of no longer lying, he’d already assured her that his feelings weren’t fake.

“This is killing two birds with one stick.” She kicked at the still warm metal that had been forgotten on the floor.

“I asked for this.” Tyler suddenly said the moment she’d broken eye contact, the statement utterly disorientating Wednesday. These emotions that Tyler seemed to experience really went from one extreme to the other rather quickly. Whether that was from him being a moody teen or a blood-thirsty creature, she wasn’t sure. “Thank you for hurting me.”

“That ruins it.” She pulled at the edges of the shirt that still hung off his shoulder slightly, ensuring the fabric didn’t rub against the burnt flesh. “You’re not supposed to enjoy it.”

“I really didn’t enjoy it.” Tyler clarified, the state of the chair’s handles being evidence enough.

Wednesday had considered making it hurt, pushing against the lettering, but she knew her frustrations weren’t really caused by Tyler. He may have been what led to them going out into the crowded public, but she had been the one to request they get better fitting clothes for the skinny boy, not that she would ever willingly take the blame.

“Let’s get something cold on your wound so it heals nicely.” She went to step away, considering what could possibly be hiding in the freezer that wouldn’t worry Tyler about infection.

“I’m sure your hands will do the trick.” Tyler suggested before she could move more than an inch.

Glancing down at her pale hands, Wednesday knocked her head to one side subtly. There was a difference in temperature between how cool she ran compared to the blaze of Tyler, but it was still quite a distance away from something actually frozen. If she did have that level of chill it would bring her closer to being corpselike though, which wasn’t something she was opposed to.

“Please. I may be cold-blooded but I’m no reptile.” Before she could delve too deep into how interesting it would be to actually have scales, Wednesday did brush her palm closer to Tyler’s chest again. Even before touching him, their atoms pressing as close as they could, she could tell there was a considerable heat difference. “I do, however, wonder.”

Pushing forward until she couldn’t anymore, she flattened her palm against the scorched area. It was similar to touching a cooling pan, the evidence of burning still there, but far less intense than an actual flame and far softer to the touch. Wednesday would know of course, her knowledge of fire power being quite intricate.

Tyler hissed in response, his whole body tensing up again as he gripped onto the corners of the chair arm that he’d damaged. He couldn’t really retreat from her touch due to how he was still trapped, and transforming also wasn’t an option since he hadn’t been given permission to do so, nor would he want to catch Wednesday in the crossfire.

“I suppose I am colder than the branding tool.” She acknowledged, feeling some of the heat transfer, digging into her pores.

Unconsciously, Tyler’s mouth became upturned. The hint of a grin teasing at his features as he watched Wednesday. He’d been so withdrawn from his own body after the extreme of being marked that he couldn’t feel the softness that followed after he finally allowed himself to relax again, Wednesday’s cold hand the only thing he could sense.

“What’s that face for?” She questioned him, dark eyes scanning across his face to catch anything else she may have missed alongside the curve of his lips.

Dropping his expression back to his standard resting appearance, Tyler tried to dismiss what Wednesday had seen. “What face?”

“You smiled.” Wednesday pointed an accusatory finger at the bridge of Tyler’s nose.

“No, I didn’t.” His voice raised in pitch as he lied.

The tip of her fingernail dug into his skin lightly, creating a crescent shape as she advanced forward. “You absolutely did. It may be dark in here, but I’ve trained my eyes to see well in such conditions.”

He certainly felt like Wednesday could see beyond the initial layer of his being, the dark abyss that was in her eyes so deep and somewhat captivating. She’d grown up in the darkness, he now saw part of that firsthand, so there was no way he could deny what Wednesday had truthfully seen in even such appalling lighting.

Realising why his body had acted on its own, Tyler began to explain himself, possibly a little more defensively than necessary. “I just found what you said a little funny. Is that not allowed either?”

“Only smile like that for me.” She blurted out, retracting the hand that had been flush against his chest away. It left Tyler with whiplash, such heart fluttering words whilst pulling away tangibly.

Tyler hadn’t really taken Wednesday for one to enjoy seeing someone grinning, but the possessiveness sounded about right. Not that she needed to have that now that he was hers, bound through the supernatural and marked physically. It was different than how it was with Laurel though. There was an acceptance from his human side at the urge he’d felt to reunite with Wednesday.

After getting to be connected, skin to skin, his want to submit was amplified. Words had shown to work just fine, but there was something different that touch added to the equation. That feeling of being truly linked, associated, interlocked made him experience fulfillment. He was worth something to someone, he hoped not just as a weapon this time though.

“Is that an order?” He blinked up at her, waiting.

Wednesday confirmed. “Yes.”

Tyler wasn’t sure if something as intricate as the way he lifted his lips could actually be restricted through their bond, but he didn’t have much else to genuinely smile at even before everything, so it might not prove to be such a difficult task regardless. There was a vast difference between the customer service grin he’d dished out a million times and the soft lifting of his lips when he was being sincere.

“Now let me find the key for those cuffs.” Wednesday withdrew herself from Tyler completely, showing just how close they’d been to one another when he could feel the air around him shift as she moved. She didn’t go very far though, simply circling around the chair to the backing. “Ah yes. Here.”

It was a little ironic having the key to escape right behind where the victim, in this case Tyler, was forced to sit. So close to their own freedom, yet still not close enough to actually do anything about it. The twisted nature of it truly suited everything else he’d come to know about the Wednesday Addams though.

Just hearing Wednesday fiddle around with the small key made another wave of relief wash over Tyler. He was sure his wrists and ankles were going to be incredibly sore, just as his fingers were from sinking into the hard wood. It wasn’t anything he wouldn’t be able to handle though, his tolerance having been built up over time.

The moment the cuffs clicked open, Tyler was inspecting the damage. There was a definite darkening of his skin around each of the previously locked down areas, which meant it had to be a bit more than normal bruising for him to be able to see it in such dim lighting. He was partly to blame for the severity though, his own thrashing around being the cause.

“Did you ever like me?” He asked as the final restricting chunk of metal was released.

A little taken aback by the sudden enquiry, Wednesday paused for a moment before giving a reply. “I don’t just kiss strangers.” She said straight-forwardly, but there was a wavering in her gaze. “You were also my first.”

All of the itching pain that had been lingering suddenly intensified. It was almost as if he could feel the emotional hurt that she’d experienced. Words weren’t really her forte, but the revenge she’d been seeking initially after finding out about the betrayal said enough about the feelings she would have refused to properly acknowledge.

“Now I feel pretty shit.” Tyler whispered while rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly, flecks of already dried blood getting caught in the small hairs.

“You should.” Wednesday’s lips trembled ever so slightly. It wouldn’t have been caught by just anyone, but Tyler wasn’t just anyone, he was obsessed with getting to understand Wednesday better. “I trusted you, Tyler.”

A knife through the chest likely would have felt less piercing. Shame and remorse were things Tyler was already pretty familiar with but seeing how what he’d managed to break even the stone that was Wednesday, that simply wrapped the noose around his struggling heart even tighter.

“And I will never not be sorry.” He said earnestly even though he knew that the past couldn’t be changed or altered. “Just for the record though. I didn’t kiss you for anyone but myself.”

“That would have made Laurel a proper disgusting creep otherwise.” Wednesday commented as she began to move towards the exit, the branding being the only thing she wished to do for the day it seemed.

Tyler had gone to follow behind Wednesday as he naturally seemed to do now, but he found himself planting his feet after a few steps, a shiver running along his spine. “Can you avoid saying her name please?”

Even though he had been so polite with his wording, this was Wednesday after all. She was blunt, honest, and wasn’t about to sugar coat anything. It was good to be so straightforward with some things, but these kinds of emotional wounds needed a more delicate touch, so he didn’t even know why he’d started.

“You’ll have to face what she did eventually.” She stopped to respond, looking back over her shoulder.

“I just need more time.” Tyler addressed the floor.

Contrary to how much Wednesday enjoyed having control, she was well aware that Tyler wasn’t just a tool she could use and abuse. Mainly because he was far less stable than your good old-fashioned hammer, but she’d agreed to take him on anyway. Things that were complicated had their own kind of charm to them.

Properly rotating herself back around so she was facing Tyler’s slouched figure, Wednesday released a breath. “I didn’t mean it when I said you’re my property. I understand you’re your own person Tyler.”

His head lifted up immediately, eyes still managing to glisten with nothing but the crappy dim lighting to give them any real shine. Such a well-trained pet, her little human. Compliments and recognition were all she needed to dangle in front of him for the energy to flood back through his veins.

“With your family’s initial on my chest.” He muttered, weakly gesturing to the imprinted flesh.

“You can still be mine without being so below me. Of course, I’m still a little better than you are though.” Wednesday took a few slow steps back towards where Tyler was stood still. There was a decent gap between them, but she knew him looking down on her was only in regard to their height. “That is just a symbol of our connection.”

Seeing it again, Wednesday couldn’t help but stare a little. She’d never gotten to brand anything or anyone with the family lettering before. There was a sense of pride associated with it, not that she would compare herself with the rumblings of her own flesh and blood, but that she had gotten to experience what it felt like to have real control.

“You warmed up to the master role pretty quickly.” Tyler breathed out through his nose.

“I’ve always loved being in control of things. This is no different.” She admitted, still leaving her eyes level with the mark.

Becoming a bit shy, Tyler adjusted his shirt so part of the letter was blocked from view. “Are we continuing with the torture elsewhere now or can I go have a cold shower?”

It had already been an active day, their venture out from the Addam’s home the most draining thing of all. Wednesday could probably inflict harm even whilst unconscious, but then she wouldn’t really get to enjoy it. She also didn’t want to test the limits of the bond between them too soon into their newfound arrangement.

“It’s been a long day. We can revisit dealing with pain tomorrow perhaps.”

“I can’t wait.” Tyler’s voice was heavy with sarcasm as he dragged himself towards the door.

As his frame moved past Wednesday, she saw how the skin on his chest was protruding out. It was quite minimal, but undeniable even from his side profile. Before he could get much further, her hand shot out to grab Tyler’s forearm. She ended up wrapping her fingers around the spot that had been bruised from the cuffs, Tyler letting out a small grunt.

“Wait.” She placed herself in front of him again, seeing how many buttons there currently were sitting away from where they could be pinned closed. Her Father seemed to be quite fond of high sitting shirts at least. “I don’t want my parents to see that just yet.”

Tyler stayed completely still as she slotted each of the available buttons into their corresponding hole. There were a few small noises of discomfort, likely from the fabric pulling across the still raw mark, but Wednesday needed Tyler to deal with it. She was getting to the age where she could begin making choices on her own without anyone sticking their beaks into her business.

“You know it’s hard for me to avoid touching you when you keep touching me.” Tyler said softly as Wednesday finished fixing up the collar.

“Fine.” She sighed, knowing her rule may be a little too restricting. “When you deem absolutely necessary you may reach for me.” Wednesday wasn’t going to become fond of physical contact anytime soon, but she understood what was and wasn’t reasonable. “Accidental touches are also acceptable.”

Furrowing his slightly bushy brows together, Tyler dug for clarification. “Not sure what constitutes what would be necessary.”

There were a few things that came to mind as Wednesday considered it. The most prominent of course being the reason Tyler had held her a few times in the past. “Like when I fall during a vision.”

He nodded his head in acceptance of the adjusted ruling. It’s not like he had a choice in the matter regardless deep down, that was, if the guidelines that had been set through their connection was strong enough to be maintained. She was sure he wouldn’t have tried breaking her boundaries without the command in place anyway though.

“I’ll take the win I guess.” He straightened himself up, the mark completely hidden behind the dark material of his shirt.

“Now go shower.” She directed him, unsure if her request was going to come across as simple permission of their little session being over or if it would be interpreted as something he had to do. “I don’t think your room is prepared yet. I will have to discuss it with my mother. So you may return to my room once you’re done.”

“Will do.” He delivered with that subtle smile from before. The one she said was reserved for her.

Without dwindling too much more, the both of them left the primary dungeon behind. Wednesday had to lead Tyler back towards where the upstairs bathroom was after he confessed he was worried he might get lost, but she only mocked him for it slightly since the home was built to be confusing and he was just a man. A man that could turn into a bug-eyed beast with massive talons.

Leaving Tyler to his own devices, Wednesday decided to prepare a little for his eventual return. Like a moth to a flame, she knew he would come dragging himself back. Some people might have found it flattering to have that kind of devotion given to them, but Wednesday had grown up expecting it. After viewing relationships primarily through her clingy parents, that was what she knew she deserved.

Before she even stepped past the threshold into her usually abandoned room again, Wednesday could feel the presence of someone else inside. There was a certain scent that each being left behind, a waft of it getting caught up in the swing of the door as she ripped it open. She would have been on the defensive if she hadn’t already recognised the undertones it let off.

Playing dumb, she still continued into her room, ready for what the possible explanation could be from her dear friend. It seemed no matter how many threats she dished out, it still wasn’t enough to maintain her sanctuary. This was meant to be her space, and if she allowed Tyler in the other night, that was partly her choice, it wasn’t just a place to frolic without permission.

After she’d moved into the bedroom completely, the door was pushed closed from behind her, even though her limbs were far from the surface of the wooden structure. The urge to roll her eyes as she turned around was ever so tempting. Such theatrics for absolutely no reason she was sure.

“Thing you’re lucky you still have all your fingers after going into my room while I wasn’t there. This isn’t the same as Nevermore.” She reprimanded the lively appendage that was now pressed right up against the entrance.

Taking the defensive, Thing began moving around, showing its concern through a series of learnt steps that Wednesday could recognise. It wasn’t the first time Thing had been contorting its fingers around to try and get through to Wednesday about the dangers of people, especially those who were outcasts with a multitude of abilities.

“I know why you’re concerned but-” Before she could even finish, Thing was turning the dramatics up, prompting Wednesday to simply pick it up. “You can’t speak a word of this to my mother, or I really will chop off your middle finger.” She pinched said finger in between the tips of her own, proving she wasn’t playing around. “Tyler came here because he selected me as his new master. Just like Laurel was before I killed her.”

Thing seemed to go a little more limp at that. The frustration that it had clearly been trying to express quickly subsided as the shock must have really kicked in. It really shouldn’t have been that much of a surprise considering Wednesday had actually allowed him, possibly even welcomed him, into her space.

“I still don’t completely trust him, but he hasn’t purposely hurt me yet.” She said softly, not wanting anyone else that was possibly lurking around to hear.

Placing Thing down on her bed, she allowed it to continue expressing its thoughts without the threats of being harmed. Of course it wouldn’t really take her intimidating remarks seriously because she had a soft spot for Thing. Quite literally, Thing had been her right-hand man through Nevermore, and that was not something she would simply forget.

It seemed Thing wasn’t ready to invite Tyler in as much as Wednesday was as it continued to move around, which usually would have been Wednesday’s response as well, but things just felt different with him. She wasn’t too sure if it was the connection they shared between them now or if she was still the gullible girl that had fallen for him in the first place, but she hoped at least, this time he was actually going to stay by her side.

Giving in, Wednesday crouched down a bit to be more levelled with Thing. “You can remain cautious, but I think he’s at least being honest about the bond.” She sort of sounded like she was convincing herself as she said it.

“Wednesday.” Tyler called out from the other side of the door, already pressing it open with a twist without actually waiting for any kind of response. It made her freeze up for a moment, not expecting him back so soon. “Do you know where my new clothes are?” He asked innocently as he stood in the doorway with nothing but a towel wrapped around his hips.

Wednesday simply stared at him with wide eyes for a couple of seconds. He’d already stripped down, but his hair was still fluffy and dry, so she doubted he’d actually gone underneath the water just yet. His new mark was bright red and irritated, hard to miss, as apart from the decent length black towel, there was just the expanse of his skin.

Finally kicking her brain back into gear at how blatantly he was wandering around with the initial she’d tried to hide earlier, Wednesday tried to cover Tyler’s stance herself from Thing. “Most of them went to be washed so you’ll be in another one of my father’s outfits tonight.” She answered after replaying what he’d said in her mind.

“Do you have it? I tried to cover the- Thing.” Tyler spotted the hand that had directed itself right at him, Wednesday’s attempts at blocking the view proving to be unsuccessful.

Bringing his arms up towards his own chest, Tyler crossed both over where there now sat a big fat ‘A’ permanently imprinted into his flesh. It seemed he was quick to catch on to why Wednesday had faltered, but it was far too late to take that information back from the nosey creature that was Thing.

Facing herself back towards where Thing was sitting oddly still, Wednesday put on her best glare, the kind that could start fires in the warmer weather. “If you also mention that to anyone, I will pull off all your fingernails. Slowly.” She mimicked the motion for extra emphasis.

“I need to be more careful it seems.” Tyler muttered, the colour in his face becoming extra rosy.

“Thing isn’t the only one good at avoiding your radar, so yes.” Wednesday said with more bite than usual.

Her sneaking skills had been learnt from somewhere, that somewhere being her family members. Although her parents weren’t the cleanest at creeping around, the only person that Tyler was likely to actually catch was Lurch, simply because of his loud steps, so it was hard to miss his incoming presence. If anyone else was being obvious enough to be spotted, it was probably on purpose and not a great sign.

“Do you have my change of clothes?” Tyler asked, still struggling to keep his eyes in one spot.

Even though she hadn’t really gotten any time to properly put a few pieces together like she intended, there was a pile of clothing items that had been neatly stacked for her. “Yes, they’re at the end of the bed.” She directed him.

With slow movements, Tyler carefully picked up a few bits of material from the mound. He had both arms preoccupied so the snail pace was likely so he didn’t nudge his loosely sitting towel off. Then there would really be a problem, Thing’s storytelling likely to twist things around so they sounded more absurd than they actually were.

Using more of his brain cells this time, when Tyler left the tense room, he used the change of clothes to cover up the upper half of his torso. It was ridiculous enough that he would be walking around practically naked but doing so right after she’d done something that she wished to keep a secret, really had her twitching.

Wednesday just had to hope Thing took her seriously or she would have to actually commit to her morbid threats against the appendage.