Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“...Fiyero, I swear to Oz if you don’t call me back. This is your son and he’s been asking for you. The boy goes and breaks his arm and suddenly you're AWOL? I don’t think so. Call me back or so help me. I will make the rest of this separation as miserable for you as possible.” Elphaba Thropp growled in frustration, ending the voicemail with as much force as she could manage without breaking a nail. She’d called her husband–her ex-husband, she reminded herself–at least four times already. Seeing as it was the middle of the day and he was still unemployed, Elphaba doubted the man had anything better to do than pick up her call. 

They’d signed the paperwork and the divorce was finalized. Child-support was meant to be coming in, but couldn’t be collected until Fiyero managed to find a job. Knowing him, he was putting in the least amount of effort in that regard. The man was no doubt couch surfing with some of his drinking buddies, watching the game or passed out on the sofa without a single care in the world. Meanwhile she, who now had full custody of their son, was in the hospital, trying to get her no good ex-husband to answer. So far, no dice. Pocketing the phone, Liir waited patiently on the ER stretcher, his black and blue arm in a sling. 

“Did he answer?” 

“No. He’s probably just busy,” Elphaba responded, reaching out to ruffle the six-year-old’s dark hair. “But eventually I’ll have to explain to him that you tried rolling down a hill in a tire.” 

“It looked like fun!” The boy insisted, his bright, green eyes sparkling with mischief. There were still tear tracks on his cheeks from earlier; he’d been wailing uncontrollably, after all. Seeing as his arm was broken in no less than two places, Elphaba wasn’t all that surprised. “It was fun!” 

“Until it wasn’t,” Elphaba argued, pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose and rubbing the place between her eyes. She’d been so ready for her weekend. Spending Saturday in an overly humid, packed to the brim waiting room full of sick people wasn’t part of the plan. And where was the Doctor? She wanted to leave already. As if on cue, the privacy curtain was pulled aside. It wasn’t the Doctor she was hoping for, but one of the attendants who already looked guilty. “What’s taking so long?” 

“All of our specialists are currently dealing with other emergencies,” the man told her, half-hiding behind a plastic clip-board as she groaned in irritation. Great. 

“Ok. How long is it going to take?” 

“Well, seeing as Liir has two severe fractures, a non-invasive surgery can be performed tomorrow morning…” 

“Tomorrow?” Elphaba huffed. “I can’t take my son home in nothing but a sling. He’ll break something else before we make it there.” 

“I understand Ms. Thropp. Unfortunately all of our rooms are full, so we’ll need to move you upstairs for the time being.” 

“Is that the only option?” 

“Afraid so.” 

“Fine. But I want this done first thing in the morning. I can’t waste another day waiting for your specialists. I have to get back to work on Monday.” 

“I understand, ma’am. If you’d follow me?” 

Urging Liir back to his feet, the boy grumbled a bit in discomfort but said little else. He was still groggy from the pain medication he was on, but once it wore off, Elphaba had a hunch the only word in his vocabulary would be ‘mom’. Thankfully, upstairs was much less confined than downstairs. The hallways were wide and bright, painted with various animals or scenes of the wilderness. Liir liked the tiger painted outside the room they were escorted to, though Elphaba didn’t fail to notice that there was a name already on the door. 

“Is this someone else's room?” She asked. 

“It’s only temporary,” the nurse explained. “This is the only room with another full bed.” 

“I see. Will they mind the intrusion?” 

“I don’t think so. From what the nurses in this ward said, she’s about the same age as Liir.” 

“Oh.” Entering the room, Elphaba was instantly struck by how lived in it was. There were posters on the walls and stuffed toys on the bed, as well as a yellow blanket with sunflowers printed on it spread across the stale hospital mattress. The second bed was empty, just as expected, though there was a pile of luggage pushed into one corner. 

“Go ahead and get settled. I’ll let the nurses in this ward know you’ll be spending the night.” 

“Thank you.” Helping Liir get into the bed, the boy took it all in before scrunching his nose. 

“This is all girly stuff.” 

“We’re sharing this room, Liir,” Elphaba chided, wagging a finger in the boy's face as she removed his shoes. “Be on your best behavior.” 

“Yes, ma’am. Did you at least bring Chistery along?” 

“I have him right here.” Reaching into her bag, Elphaba removed the plastic flying monkey toy, passing it over to her son. It was his favorite; he took it everywhere. Fiyero had gotten it for him on their day trip to the Emerald Fair, and had Elphaba failed to dig it out of the mud where her son face-planted into the grass, he would’ve been devastated. Seeing as the boy was six, breaking his arm seemed like the least of his worries compared to everything else. No doubt he’d be asking her about lunch soon once he regained his appetite.

Settling into one of the chairs, Elphaba groaned in exhaustion. She didn’t want to spend the night in the hospital, but ever since separating from her husband, Liir had the worst nightmares imaginable. He wouldn’t do well alone in a place like this, meaning she would be sleeping sitting up tonight. Rubbing her forehead and raking a hand through her braids, Elphaba cracked an eye open as clattering rushed down the hall. It sounded like a machine, but as the door handle jiggled and flew open, a little girl about her son’s age flew into the room. She all but galloped on a pair of metal crutches, her pretty yellow sundress and golden blonde tresses bright compared to the bulky black braces on her legs. She didn’t seem to notice them at first, only to skid to a sudden stop when she did. 

Her dewy, bulbous blue eyes widened. Her face went slack and her jaw opened, but no sound came out. Not a peep–not even a squeak–as she turned tail and rushed back out, swinging as naturally on her crutches as one might on their legs. 

“...what? What’s wrong?” 

The girl eventually reappeared, all but dragging a woman behind her. She was tall and willowy, with creamy pale skin and the same honey blonde curls as her daughter. Elphaba didn’t fail to notice the dark rings under her eyes; like she hadn’t slept in weeks. “Oh.” The woman—this girls mother, Elphaba assumed—stopped, her face matching the expression her daughter had made only a moment ago. She straightened and bristled, anger and discomfort flashing in her dark eyes. “I think you’re in the wrong room,” she told them, though her tone was icy and her demeanor unfriendly. 

“No, we’re in the right room,” Elphaba replied, rising to stand and folding both arms across her chest. “They had no more rooms downstairs.” 

“This is supposed to be a private suite.” 

“Yeah, well, we can’t always get what we want.” 

The blonde woman glared, huffing in irritation. But she was immediately distracted by the little girl at her hip who gave her pink skirt a tug. She still didn’t speak, using an array of hand-signs instead. The blonde woman responded the same way, though whatever was said looked hesitant at best before she rolled her eyes, groaning a bit in her throat. 

“This is my daughter Peaches,” the woman introduced, still signing as she addressed both Elphaba and Liir. “She wants to know what your names are.” 

“I’m Liir!” Liir announced at a volume that was entirely inappropriate. “I broke my arm.” 

“I can see that,” the woman mumbled, signing back to her daughter, who nodded and said something in return. She then turned to Elphaba and pointed at her. “And you?” 

“Elphaba.” 

“El…” the woman’s eyebrows scrunched. “Can you spell that?” 

Having never had to spell her name for a stranger before, Elphaba did so hesitantly, watching the woman communicate back to Peaches letter by letter what her name was. The little girl responded oddly, her face wrinkling as she shook her head. Her mother just rolled her eyes again, notching a hand on her hip. “She says it’s too long. She wants to call you Elphie instead.” 

“It’s kinda perky,” Elphaba complained, only to be instantly silenced by Peaches dazzling and expectant smile. “But I guess. Who are you?” 

“Galinda,” the woman introduced, signing her own name as though it was second nature. “It’s…well…fine to meet you, I suppose.” 

“Not too keen on sharing?” Elphaba wondered, pulling back the blanket on Liir’s bed as he kicked his feet to get underneath it. Galinda scowled, putting down her white leather handbag by the end of Peaches bed. 

“No. I’m paying a lot of money for this suite and I will be filing a formal complaint. But thanks for asking.”  

“Hey, we don’t want to be here either,” Elphaba argued, stepping back as Galinda sneered at her. 

“Then we’re in agreement. Now, it’s been a long afternoon and I’d like to not be disturbed. Excuse me.” 

With a swish Galinda pulled the curtain, blocking off Peaches' side of the room. Elphaba blinked at the rudeness of this stranger, her own skin bristling unhappily. Liir didn't seem to notice the tension, too busy running Chistery down the plastic rail of the bed and making explosion noises. 

“It’s just for tonight,” Elphaba whispered to herself, returning to her chair and falling into it with a huff. “Just one night.” 

Chapter Text

“…hey, yo, this is Fiyero Tigelaar. Leave a message and I’ll return your call whenever.” 

“Ugh. Typical.” Elphaba hung up the phone, not bothering to leave another message when she'd already spammed the inbox. Her ex wasn’t going to answer—at least not today. Standing in line outside the small hospital cafe, she helplessly stared into her coin purse, rubbing the back of her neck. There was no money inside. Not a single cent. She’d used the rest of her cash to handle the hospital’s ridiculous copay, while she was still waiting on her paycheck to handle her hemorrhaging credit card due to legal fees. She had no money. 

And her son was upstairs dying of starvation. Or so he claimed.

“Shit,” Elphaba spat, urgently patting her pockets and scrounging around in the bottom of her purse for change. No luck. The best she could do for her son was a.) a cup of ice chips. Or b.) hike halfway across town to grab something from home. And that would take forever with the evening traffic. Even worse was that her poor car was on its last bar of gas. She might not even make it before getting stuck somewhere. So, she was left standing there, clueless as to what to do, not wanting to return to her grumbly six-year-old without a meal. She must’ve either looked clueless or helpless enough for Lurline to send help, because the sound of clicking high heels caused her head to raise. Except it was hardly the person she wanted to see. 

Galinda Upland walked like the building was on fire, phone to her ear, brows angrily scrunched. She stopped after nearly bumping into Elphaba, yet huffed as though it were somehow not her own fault. 

“Do you mind?” She spat unhappily, removing the phone from her ear and covering it with a palm. 

“You nearly ran into me,” Elphaba shot back in annoyance, still rifling around in her bag. Galinda watched her for a moment, shoulders rolling back as she stuck her nose in the air.

“How much do you need?” 

Elphaba lifted her head. “What?” 

“How much—?”  Galinda waved to her empty purse in flamboyant irritation, “—do you need?” 

“I…anything.”  

“Not helpful,” the blonde growled, throwing open her luxury white handbag. In a second she tossed a bill Elphaba’s way as easily as one might flick a cigerette. “There. Avoid the tuna wrap, they’re always spoiled.” Galinda then walked off with a hair toss, her heels click-clicking across the floor as she returned to her phone call. Glancing down into her palm, a crumbled hundred-dollar bill now sat in her hand. Not sure if she’d been given the money out of pity, spite, or some secret third thing, Elphaba couldn’t complain. She immediately headed into the cafe, grabbing enough snacks to fill her purse, and lunch for both her and Liir. Pocketing the change for an emergency and heading out, angry screeching from down the hall caused her to pause. 

Galinda had stopped in an alcove a little ways down, rapidly pacing back and forth. She was red with anger, though her face shined with what appeared to be tears as she clutched a handful of blonde hair in one hand. “…don’t you dare say it’s out of your hands, you sick bastard!” She spat, all but screaming it at the top of her lungs. “I pay your salary, and I can just as easily not pay it. So, you better fix this before I decide to find someone with more of a brain to do what needs to be done! I pay you people so I don’t have to deal with this shit, yet you keep calling me day after day with problems that you get money to solve! This is your last warning. Fix this mess and fix it now, or all of you are fired. Am I clear!” 

Galinda huffed and puffed; her pale face bright strawberry red as she hung up the phone. Elphaba actually stepped back a little as she swung her arm around, smashing the phone against the cinder block wall with a tremendous clatter. Pieces flew in every direction like projectiles, exploding like a firework. The woman who’d made the mess shrieked in her anger, crumbling against the nearest wall with a deep, guttural sob. At once Elphaba knew she was intruding into something deeply private, even if the temper tantrum had probably been heard by the entire hospital. She turned her back, walking quickly in the other direction so as to not be seen. 

Yet her mind still lingered. 

She didn’t know this woman. Well…she didn’t know her besides a horrible attitude and an—apparently—equally horrible temper. But then, this was a hospital. And people didn’t normally hang out in hospitals for happy or good reasons. Perhaps something was going on with Peaches? Elphaba knew she’d be in a bad mood too if Liir was suffering with something serious. But the little blonde girl seemed happy as could be, galloping around the room on her crutches despite two braced legs. She was friendly too, insisting on being on her son’s side of the room despite not being able to communicate with him. Elphaba had figure out by now that Peaches was fully deaf, hence the sign language and mutism. But mother and daughter communicated fluently and without issues, meaning it wasn’t a new development. 

So, what happened? 

Shaking the thoughts away—it really wasn’t any of her business—Elphaba hurriedly made her way back to Liir. The boy immediately perked up at her entrance. Peaches was sitting on his bed, awkwardly bent over her braces. They appeared to be playing well together, Chistery having been joined by two new companions: a stuffed unicorn with white fur, and another plastic toy in the shape of some sort of mythical creature. A dragon or something. 

“Mom, you’re back!” Liir announced. “Did you bring food? I’m starving!” 

“Inside voice, Liir,” Elphaba chided, opening her bag. “Do you want a sandwich and crackers, or a granola bar and fruit snacks?” 

“A sandwich!” 

“A sandwich—?” 

“Please?” 

Nodding her acceptance of the answer and gathering the necessary items, Elphaba began setting up a plate for her son. She was acutely aware of Peaches still sitting on the bed, but she didn’t really have the resources to be feeding another person’s child. Even if she’d bought the food with Galinda’s money. It was hard to say how much Liir would eat today, let alone how much she might need to get herself through the night. But the girl seemed unbothered by not being included, watching innocently as her new friend immediately dug into his lunch, ravenous from the long morning they’d had.

Thankfully–or perhaps unfortunately–Galinda returned shortly too. She seemed better put together now, a bit of redness still grazing her cheeks and up the back of her neck. Her hair was out of its former ponytail, though the woman was making quick work of that as she braided it. Peaches clattered as she scrambled down from the bed, Elphaba resisting the urge to lunge forward lest she fall to the ground. But the child was spry despite her condition, readying her walking aids as she swung back to her own side of the room. Galinda greeted her with a silent head nod and a weak smile, still braiding her hair as her daughter signed something. 

“Ah,” Galinda mused, more to herself than to Peaches. She turned to look at Elphaba, tilting her head to the pile of bags in the corner of the room. “Miss Elphaba, there are some packages of animal crackers in the top duffle. Do you mind—?” 

“Oh. No, of course not.” Leaving Liir to his food, Elphaba turned to the pink mountain of things behind her. Indeed, the top duffle was overflowing with different types of snacks. Galinda pointed for Peaches to come fetch it. She swung over hastily, excitedly lifting two fingers. Elphaba was fully ready to give her the two, but Galinda tsked between her teeth. 

“Just one, if you don’t mind,” the woman said, finishing off her hair with an elastic. Passing the single snack over, Peaches pouted and turned back to her mom. Her signing was an unhappy sort, and briefly, Elphaba wished Liir’s whining was this quiet. She had to fight with her son loudly when he didn’t get his way; loud enough to disturb the rest of the apartment complex. Galinda signed back, seemingly equally ferocious in her words. Peaches tossed her head and stomped a crutch on the ground, but immediately dropped her head when Galinda suddenly clapped her hands. It was a sharp and loud noise like a firecracker; both Liir and Elphaba flinched at it. Peaches didn’t react to the sound but seemed to get the hint that her mother wasn’t in the mood to argue. 

“Pardon,” Galinda apologized, watching the little girl retreat to bed with her single package of animal crackers. “The physical therapist will be in at any moment, just so you know. I hope Liir isn’t nervous around strangers.” 

Elphaba shook her head. “No. He might annoy them to death with a million questions, though.” 

“Seeing as this is a Children’s Hospital, I’m sure the staff can handle it,” Galinda rebuffed airily, rubbing the place between her eyes with two fingers. The woman looked completely exhausted, a deep sigh escaping her chest. Elphaba wanted to ask if she was alright, but it felt wrong somehow. After all, they were strangers sharing a room–the least she could do was be polite and stay out of Galinda’s way, and out of her business. Still, she had given her money earlier… 

“Thank you, by the way.” 

“Hmm?” 

“For the money,” Elphaba clarified, getting nervous as bulbous brown eyes landed on her from across the room. “It was a huge help.” 

“This hospital has nothing but overpriced, pre-packaged junk,” Galinda complained, swiping blonde hair from her forehead and flattening it to her scalp. “But you’re welcome anyhow.” 

“I did ask if this room was occupied before we got placed here,” Elphaba admitted, her words coming quicker than her brain as she bounced a leg. “We should’ve just gone home.” 

“No-no. I…hmm…my first impression was poor,” Galinda moaned, perching at the edge of one of the hospital chairs and leaning over her knees. She looked ready to collapse, running a hand across her collar bones. “You’re trying to do what's best for your son and that’s…well…that’s all we can really do, isn’t it?” 

“Yeah,” Elphaba agreed slowly, pursing her lips as Galinda leaned back against the wall, her head lolling tiredly against the plaster. “I’ll watch Peaches if you want to close your eyes for a minute," she offered. "I'm not tired yet." 

“Can’t," Galinda complained back, dragging a hand across her bruised eyes. "I have to be awake when PT gets here.” 

“I’ll be sure to wake you up,” Elphaba insisted, worried her companion was about to fall to the floor in an unconscious heap. 

“Just for a…a moment, then,” Galinda agreed with a tired nod, almost whimpering as she let her eyes flutter shut. The woman was out like a light in a second. Rising to her feet, Elphaba hurried her stride as Galinda's body began to waver, tipping dangerously forward where she sat. 

“Woah, I’ve got you.” Catching her shoulder with a flat hand, Elphaba awkwardly kicked over another chair, pulling it closer with her foot. She laid Galinda across the two seats slowly, careful not to wake her up as she dozed. Glancing at Peaches, the little girl had stopped eating, staring at her from the bed. Not knowing how else to communicate with her, Elphaba just gave an awkward thumbs up. Peaches pursed her lips together in thought before tugging her sunflower blanket out from under her legs and holding it out, pointing to her mother. Realizing what the girl wanted, Elphaba accepted the token, gently laying it over Galinda’s still sleeping form. Peaches observed the work before nodding, reciprocating her thumbs up and returning to her snack. 

Elphaba went back to her chair, sitting down slowly. Liir was sleeping too, caught up in a sudden food coma as well as the excitement of the day. Eventually, Peaches followed suit. Pulling out her phone to check notifications, Fiyero still hadn’t called or texted her back. Irritation sparking in her gut, Elphaba leaned on a bent elbow, crossing one leg over the other and settling down to wait. She watched the door for the arrival of the PT, bouncing her foot with each passing minute. Inwardly, she hoped they never arrived.

Galinda needed the sleep, and Elphaba wasn’t mentally prepared for Liir’s favorite game of two-million useless questions.

Chapter Text

Elphaba cared too much. It was one of her many faults, both as a human, and as a parent. She tried to keep things real; to ground herself in reality. But her heart didn’t always react the way she wanted it to. 

She wanted to hate Galinda Upland. It was obvious she was wealthy, with a luxurious life and a bad attitude to match. But that was a surface level assumption, and Elphaba was naturally inquisitive. She looked deeper into things—even mundane things—wanting to dissect them. To understand. Because that was just in her nature. So it was that her morbid curiosity left her in this position, bent over a chair, her heart breaking for two complete strangers. 

Watching Peaches try to walk was painful. 

The little blonde was confident in her crutches and braces, galloping through the room in an excitable, silent whirlwind. But caught between two vertical bars, three adults coaxing her along the floor on nothing but her own two feet? She was suddenly so small and fragile. Her pretty face—one that looked so much like Galinda’s—scrunched. With each step, gravity looked ready to pull her down to her knees. Tears bubbled in the six-year-old’s eyes, her cheeks bright red, hands gripping the bars till her knuckles were white. 

The first sound Elphaba heard come from the deaf girl was a cry of pain. Her timbre was high pitched like her mother’s. Peaches had a voice, yet she only used it when walking became too much to bear. She was immediately scooped up by her mother, tears reddening the elder woman’s eyes as she clutched her daughter and snarled at their visitors: “Enough! Get out.” 

The PT’s seemed to know their place too; it was clearly not the first time this happened. They gathered their equipment in a hurry and left, scrambling out the door as though the building was on fire. Distracted by her own thoughts, Elphaba was too late to catch Liir as he bumbled out of the bed, broken arm and all. 

“…Liir…” she hissed, swiping for his jacket, only to miss and nearly topple over. He went straight to Galinda, still holding Peaches in her arms, and tugged her jacket.  

“Miss Galinda?” 

Elphaba was expecting her son to get berated. It was obvious Galinda and Peaches were both upset, and her little nosy son asking questions was not what they needed. But the blonde just looked down at him, her brown eyes shining with tears as she managed a sniffle and cleared her throat. 

“What is it?” 

“Is Peaches ok?” 

“I…yes.” Galinda choked and feigned a nod. 

“But why can’t she walk?” 

“Liir!” Elphaba spat, rising from her chair. “Galinda, I’m so sorry…” 

“It’s…fine,” she replied tersely, her lips pressing into a thin line as she rocked her daughter mindlessly. The girl had all but collapsed into her mothers neck, silent and still. “There was an accident some time ago, and her legs don’t work the same as they used to. We’re trying to fix it.” 

“Oh. Does it hurt?” 

“It can.” 

“I’m sorry, Miss Galinda,” Liir said, his young face twisting into something Elphaba couldn’t quite define. She’d never seen such an expression on her son. “Can I sit with her?” 

Galinda was silent for a beat, then two. Elphaba held her breath, not knowing what the answer would be. But the woman just sighed, tilting her head and using a hand to gently run through Peaches blonde hair. The little girl barely twitched. She was so tired. “As long as you don’t disturb her.” 

“I’ll be really quiet.”  

“Ok.” Galinda almost sounded ready to cry again, slowly depositing Peaches back into her bed. She tucked the girl under the blanket of sunflowers, kissing her temple and stroking her cheek as Liir awkwardly bumbled up beside her. And, as promised, he sat in complete silence. Her son was never silent. 

“I need to step out for a moment.” 

Galinda left the room in a hurry, holding the back of her hand to her mouth as though barely keeping herself together. Elphaba hadn’t planned to follow her out, but something in her gut told her it was needed. She really needed to stay out of Galinda’s business, but it felt like she’d just witnessed something incredibly personal. 

Why the suite was private in the first place suddenly made a lot more sense. 

“Liir, keep an eye on Peaches.” 

“I will, mom.” 

“Don’t move. I’ll be right back.” 

“Maybe Miss Galinda needs an ice cream,” Liir suggested. “That always makes me feel better.”

“I’ll think about it,” Elphaba agreed, hoping beyond hope her son stayed put as she left the room. Galinda hadn’t even made it halfway down the hall. She’d collapsed against the wall in the open, face hidden in her hands. The nurses and staff didn’t seem to care about her there; like she was just another piece of furniture to maneuver around. The lack of sympathy was disturbing, but also a tell tale sign that this wasn’t a singular occurrence. It was clear that the Uplands had been in this hospital for a while, not just a few days. 

An accident, Galinda had said. What kind of accident could cause a six-year-old girl to break both of her legs? If it was Liir stuck in this hospital, Elphaba knew she’d be an emotional wreck too. 

Approaching slowly, she prepared herself for the worst. To get yelled or cursed at by this mother who was so obviously emotionally strained. But she didn’t do much of anything, just cried with her head in her knees. Not knowing what to say—not knowing why she cared so much at all—Elphaba sat down beside her. She reached out a hand, nervously patting Galinda’s shoulder. 

The laugh wasn’t expected. 

“Is that your attempt at comfort, Miss Elphaba?” Galinda asked, raising her head to reveal cherry rashen cheeks and badly swollen eyelids. 

“This isn’t really my thing,” Elphaba admitted dryly, pulling back her fingers awkwardly, her long nails pressing into her palm. 

“Clearly. Yet here you are anyway.” 

“R—right.” 

“You’ve raised a lovely young man,” Galinda noted through her tears, dragging an ungraceful sleeve across her face. “Peaches likes Liir a lot. I hope you know that.” 

“At least somebody does,” Elphaba joked, rolling her eyes. “But thank you.” 

“Hmm.” Galinda smiled, though it was tight and didn’t reach her eyes. She looked awful, drawn across her bones like paper mache. 

“Can I ask—?” 

“Four months.” Galinda replied, not bothering to let Elphaba finish her question. “It’s been four months.” 

“I’m sorry.” Elphaba furrowed her brows. “And her legs…?” 

“Improving. She’ll walk again, but…she’s just too young. Too young for the discipline that’s needed to make recovery faster. Too young to understand all that’s happened.”

“Happened?” 

“I’m surprised you haven’t figured it out by now,” Galinda huffed somewhat bitterly, shaking her head. “It was in every newspaper; on every website and social media to ever exist. My name is right there on the door.” 

“I’m too busy for news,” Elphaba admitted. “I haven’t paid the cable bill yet.” 

“Four months ago, my husband was taking Peaches to school when…when a drunk driver…” Galinda stopped, seemingly unable to continue that line of thought. “Chuffery is in a different hospital.” 

“I see.” 

“Peaches was saved by her booster seat. They called it a miracle. But the collision was head on and…” Galinda’s face crumbled. “He’s on life support, but…but I have to…make the choice. Soon.” 

“Oh, Galinda.” 

“I haven’t been able to tell Peaches yet,” Galinda croaked. “She’s trying so hard, you know. But she keeps asking where her daddy is, and I just…” the blonde shook her head, once again burying her face in her hands. Elphaba didn’t know what to do. Her mind was spinning. She had seen something about a terrible accident not that long ago; a horrible image of a mangled vehicle barely recognizable as such. She didn’t read much into it; stuff like that happened all the time. But here was Galinda, alone in a hospital with the daughter she almost lost, without her husband…and seemingly without any other family either. 

Maybe it was her motherly instinct kicking in, or maybe it was something else entirely, but Elphaba reached out. She tugged this complete stranger into her arms and held her. Like they’d known one another their whole lives. She got a few strange looks from the nurses on the floor, but they scuttled away with a single, green-eye’d glare. Galinda cried for what felt like forever, her entire body quaking as Elphaba ran long nails through her hair. Elphaba briefly wondered if Fiyero had called her back yet, as she had her phone on the charger. But…suddenly her own issues felt small. Insignificant. She still had her son’s father, as awful and irritating as he was. She still had Liir, who only needed a few screws and a cast on his arm. 

They’d be able to leave tomorrow. 

Galinda had neither of those things. She’d been here for four months, her daughter unable to walk, her husband on life support. And if that didn’t give Elphaba some real world perspective…well…she didn’t know what else could. 

Chapter Text

Elphaba didn’t know how terrifying it was, watching your only child be rolled into surgery. 

It had already been a long and uncomfortable night for all of them. Elphaba doubted Galinda ever slept based on the rings around her eyes, but she shared the bed with Peaches nonetheless, keeping an arm wrapped protectively around her daughter. Elphaba didn’t sleep with Liir, seeing as his arm was still hanging tantalizingly from the sling. But he was getting restless and uncomfortable now that the excitement of the day had ended and his playmate was asleep. 

Elphaba was envious, honestly. Galinda didn’t seem to have any issues getting Peaches to bed before collapsing herself. But, then again, the girl didn’t seem particularly argumentative with her mother in the first place. She was friendly and well-behaved besides the slight annoyance when she didn’t get more than one snack. Galinda seemed to keep a tight ship. Mother and daughter had their routines and stuck to them; perhaps an outcome of living in a very scheduled place for four months. 

Liir, on the other hand, wasn’t a very good sleeper. He was as energetic as a six-year-old boy could be, meaning it was a fight to get him down. Fiyero just let the boy run amok till the wee hours, ignoring her instructions to have him in bed (asleep) by nine at the latest. She always had fun undoing the bad habits Liir picked up from his father, be it staying up late, being picky about food and only wanting junk, or—newly these days—cursing. All Fiyero’s doing. Unfortunately for her, Liir adored his father, and the separation didn’t sit with him the way Elphaba would’ve liked. 

In her dream world, Fiyero would just disappear from her life. But that thought—one she dreamed of often—now felt bitter, tainted with guilt. 

Peaches didn’t have her father anymore. Or at least, not for much longer. Elphaba didn’t know how she’d tell Liir his father wasn’t coming back. The boy screamed and cried when he had to leave his dad’s on their agreed visitation weekends. She couldn’t imagine having to tell him Fiyero was…gone. As much as she despised what their marriage had become and his frivolous lifestyle, Fiyero did love his son. He came for visits and joined them on outings. He brought gifts for Liir’s sixth birthday, an event which was right in the middle of their divorce proceedings. And—eventually—he would need to pay child support, which he would do, just not quickly. 

Elphaba had to be grateful for that, at least, when her situation could’ve been worse. 

It was both a relief and a horrifying experience when they were finally removed from the room for surgery prep. It was still dark outside and the hospital was quiet. Galinda and Peaches remained asleep as Elphaba followed her son’s bed down the elevator, through a dark hall, and to the surgery doors. Liir—exhausted from not sleeping much—was still dozing in and out on his own. So much so that Elphaba somehow doubted he even knew what was going on. 

And suddenly the fear came. That motherly panic which had been lurking in her gut since yesterday finally crashed down as her son was taken away. The procedure was routine, if not totally mundane. It would only take an hour if not less to get the right screws in. But still. Riding back up the elevator in a shocked stupor, Elphaba wasn’t expecting Galinda to be there. She’d been asleep when they went downstairs, or so Elphaba had assumed. 

Yet, as she stepped out of the elevator and into the pediatrics lobby, there the blonde was. She looked tired, as she always did. But her lips wilted at seeing her, big brown eyes pooled with sympathy. 

“Galinda?” Elphaba hurriedly swiped at her face with a rough sleeve, not realizing she was crying until she tried to speak. “Sorry.” 

“No need. Here.” Removing a plastic wrapped package of handkerchiefs from her coat, Elphaba accepted the token. 

“Thank you.” 

“The cafe is open now,” the blonde whispered, tilting her head. “Join me for a coffee?” 

“Are you sure? Shouldn’t you be with Peaches?” 

“Peaches sleeps well when she’s down for the night, seeing as she can’t hear,” Galinda sighed, her lips curling. “I’ve got time.” 

“Ok.” 

“Come on.” 

Elphaba wasn’t expecting Galinda to loop an arm through her’s, but she didn’t mind the contact. It was grounding to have someone beside her. A few nurses gave them looks as they left, but said nothing. The cafe was empty, as expected, but Galinda handled their breakfast in practiced silence. Two coffees, two breaded croissants, and a sweet pastry placed in her handbag for Peaches. They sat at a small table barely illuminated by a plastic lamp. 

“Has Liir ever gone into surgery before?” Galinda wondered honestly, buttering her croissant elegantly despite the plastic cutlery. 

“No. This is the first time.” 

“Children are both the most durable, yet the most fragile at the same time. It’s hard to tell.”  

“Right.” 

“How are you feeling?” 

“…I don’t know.” 

“Hmm.” Galinda pursed her lips, taking a slow sip of her coffee. “It feels like the world is collapsing. The worst possible scenario is running through your head, and you wish more than anything you could’ve gone with him.” 

“I…” Elphaba lifted her head, her dark brows furrowing. “Yeah. Exactly.” 

“I understand,” Galinda admitted, her lips flickering into the smallest smile. “I was the same way when Peaches was brought here. Unfortunately I’m not as composed as you, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Oh?” 

“If you haven’t noticed, the nurses here don’t…like me…very much.” 

“I didn’t notice,” Elphaba fibbed, only for Galinda to roll her eyes. 

“You have. I haven’t been the kindest to anyone since the accident. Not even you.” 

“No,” Elphaba agreed with a slow head tilt. “But I can’t imagine the stress you’re under.” 

“No one can, nor do I wish anyone could. Not ever.” Galinda shook her head rapidly, placing both hands against her temples. “Liir will be fine. He’s going to go crazy over having a cast. They’re cool.” 

“Is that so?” 

“Peaches was excited to have people draw on her’s when she had them,” Galinda noted airily. “My signature was the biggest, of course.” 

“Of course,” Elphaba chuckled dryly. “Galinda, may I ask something?” 

“Mhm?” 

“How do you do it?” 

“Do what?” Galinda tilted her head, hoisting a well manicured brow. 

“Parent so well? I mean…you’re so put together, and Peaches listens to you. I love Liir but he’s a pain in my butt.” 

“Oh, Elphie—I mean,” Galinda shook her head. “Can I call you that?” 

“I think Peaches called me that first.” 

“She did, didn’t she. Well, I feel like a terrible parent, too. Peaches is…” Galinda waved her hands. “How to even describe her? She’s a lot. You should’ve met her before all this and you’d be thinking differently. This accident has taken its toll on the both of us, and it’s still not over.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t be. What I’m trying to say is that no one is a perfect parent. And from what I’ve seen, you’re a wonderful mother.”

“Even though I let my son roll down a hill in a tire?” 

“Is that what happened?” Galinda laughed a bit in her chest, a sound that Elphaba hadn’t actually heard from her yet. “That does sound like a very ‘boy’ thing to do, doesn’t it?” 

“It was. I should’ve been watching him closer.” 

“Maybe. But if you spend all your time thinking about what you could’ve done, it’ll ruin you. I would know. I can't tell you how many hours I’ve spent wishing it was me in the car that day.” 

Galinda dropped her head a little, closing her eyes wearily as she hung from her hands. The bruises on her eyelids were so prominent, and Elphaba suddenly wondered if that’s all she thought about. The mere image of this woman on life support…of Peaches losing her mother? It was enough to cause her own eyes to burn. She cared too much, obviously. 

Purely on instinct, Elphaba reached across the table. She hesitantly picked up Galinda’s pale hand, holding it in her own. A bruised brown eye cracked open, shining dangerously with the start of tears. 

“Don’t ever think you’re a bad mother, Miss Elphaba,” she croaked, choking on the gasp as she gave Elphaba’s fingers a squeeze. “Loving Liir with all you are is the only thing you can do. And from what I’ve seen? Well…you’ve managed just fine so far.”

Chapter Text

“…Liir, did you really have to choose such a bright cast?” Elphaba practically had to squint at her son as he showed off his new lime green arm. 

“Bright? It’s phosphorescent,” Galinda noted from where she sat cross-legged on Peaches bed, phone in her hands. She’d been furiously texting someone for the last hour or so. And though she tried to hide it from the kids, Elphaba could tell she wasn’t pleased at all. 

“I think it’s neat mom!” The boy cried excitedly, showing the new accessory to Peaches, who grinned and clapped her hands. 

“Alright, Ms. Thropp, you’re all set.” The nurse—who’d been standing nearby for a proper time to approach—handed Elphaba a small stack of papers which she’d already signed. “We expect Liir back in about six weeks to check the progress. Make sure to wash around the cast to avoid any infection, and try to keep him from scratching underneath it.” 

“Of course. Thank you.”

“If you have any problems, call us right away.” 

Nodding, Elphaba folded the paperwork and tucked it away in her purse. She was more than ready to get out of this place. Her back was aching and she wanted to sleep for a few hours in her own bed. Fiyero was meant to be coming by with takeout for dinner, seeing as she hadn’t the time to do any grocery shopping for the coming week. Her ex had finally managed to call back, his explanation being ‘no service’. Which was bullshit, because he sounded hungover on the phone. But Elphaba didn’t have the energy to push it. 

“Well, Liir. What do you say we head home?” 

“Home?” Liir looked up at her, brows crumpling. “Already?” 

“What do you mean ‘already’? We’ve been here all night.” 

“Can’t we stay a little longer? I want Peaches to sign my cast.” 

“But…” 

“Ah, Elphaba—?” 

Glancing up as Galinda spoke her name, the blonde woman was suddenly on her feet. She looked a touch…worried…about something, pursing her lips. Her big brown eyes glanced up apologetically, phone still in hand. “I need to step out for a moment. You wouldn’t mind staying another few minutes, would you?” 

“Uh, no, I can do that. Everything ok?” 

“Yes. Yes, of course. I just need to make a quick phone call.” 

Nodding her understanding, something odd tickled in Elphaba’s gut. Writing it off as nothing, she returned her attention to Peaches and Liir. The blonde had found a marker and was currently scribbling all over his cast. She was quite the little artist, signing her name in cute curly script, while also drawing a menagerie of animals like lions, tigers, bears, and even a dinosaur which Liir gushed over for at least five minutes. Elphaba happily signed her name too when Peaches gave her the pen, though she signed ‘mom’ and not her actual name. 

However, as time ticked on and Galinda didn’t return, the strange feeling intensified. Elphaba couldn’t help her worry as she stood, giving Liir a firm point with one finger. 

“Liir, I need to step out. You and Peaches stay right here. Got it?” 

“Ok, mom.” 

With haste she made her way out of the room, stopping at a nurses station. “Excuse me, but where did Galinda go?” 

“Mrs. Upland? I think she went downstairs to take a call outside.” 

“Thank you. I’ll be right back.” 

Elphaba didn’t wait for the nurse to respond, hastening her pace. Ever since she was a girl, she had these weird feelings when something might go wrong. A bad storm, a broken chair about to be sat in, the power going out? Even Liir going down the hill in a tire set off her internal alarms, which is why his injuries hadn’t been worse. She just had a knack for knowing things, or so her little sister Nessa liked to claim. So here she was, running after Galinda for seemingly no reason other than a hunch. A bad feeling that was nagging at her that may not have even been true. 

Stepping out the sliding glass doors of the hospital lobby, Galinda was by the curb pacing. She was clearly on a very angry phone call about something, having a screaming match with whoever was on the other end of the line. Elphaba tried to squash her nerves, but her head whipped up at the screeching of tires and the roar of an engine. A black SUV came whipping around the corner at high speed with no plates and dark tinted windows. 

“Galinda!” 

Shouting the woman’s name, Elphaba lunged forward with a terrified gasp. The vehicle hit the curb with a clatter, its intended victim dropping her phone as it shattered. She was seemingly frozen in shock—a literal deer in headlights. Making it to her just as the car came too close, Elphaba pulled them both back, hitting the concrete hard. Her glasses flew off and shattered across the pavement, while Galinda landed beside her. The SUV quickly backed up, and Elphaba immediately worried it would try again. But the driver swerved and sped away, screeching all the while. 

Her own ears ringing from impact with the ground, Elphaba sat up, wincing at the scrapes and rock-burns now adorning her palms, forearms and knees. Turning to her companion, she was alarmed that the blonde wasn’t moving. “Galinda!” Elphaba took the other woman by the shoulders, gently rolling her over. She was unconscious for the moment, a small stream of blood oozing from a cut in her hairline. 

“Ma’am! Ma’am, are you ok?” 

There was a rush from the hospital, bystanders no doubt having seen the incident. Elphaba merely nodded an affirmative regarding her own health, but gently held Galinda’s face in her palms. Relief flooded through her as dark lashes fluttered, pale brows furrowing with a hiss of pain as she came back around. 

“E—Elphie…?” The name came out stuttering. “Wh—what h-hap-happened?” 

“I don’t know, but you hit your head pretty hard.” 

“W-was that a—a car?” 

“Yeah, it was.” Galinda moved to sit up, but Elphaba gently pushed her back down. “Don’t move, help is coming.” Nurses were already running at them with gurneys. “Good news is we don’t need to commute to the hospital. We’re already here.” 

“F—fun—funny,” Galinda struggled out, her brown eyes worryingly dazed. “Where—w—where’s P-P-Peaches?” 

“She’s with Liir. He’ll take care of her.” 

Galinda looked like she wanted to say something, but winced and shuddered instead. She looked worryingly pale all of a sudden, but Elphaba merely stepped back as the gurney was dropped by her. She was loaded onto it hastily, a brace being applied to her neck before she was wheeled off. 

“—ma’am? Ma’am, can you hear me?” 

Blinking out of her own daze, a nurse was holding her arm. She was wavering a bit on her feet, shifting to better regain her balance. Galinda wasn’t the only one who hit her head. 

“What?” 

“Ma’am, can you sit on the stretcher?” 

“I don’t…I don’t need it.” 

“It’s protocol, ma’am. Please sit.” 

Elphaba didn’t really want to, she was a little dizzy but fine otherwise. She just wanted to go home. But the nurse didn’t seem ready to argue with her. Sighing heavily she got on the stretcher, pursing her lips as her neck was braced and she was strapped in. 

“Our kids are upstairs,” she told the nurse as they went. “In pediatric residency.” 

“Which room?” 

“305.”

“I’ll let the ward know to have a watcher sit with them. For now, let’s worry about you, alright?” 

And so she was unwillingly wheeled back into the ER. Thankfully they didn’t take her into a room for a million tests, merely sitting her up in a quiet alcove as they shined a light in her eyes and had her answer some basic questions. Wrapping up her busted knees and hands with bandages, the nurse hummed and took notes before nodding. “Looks like a very minor concussion, if anything. Ice and over the counter pain medication will do fine.”

“Thank you.” 

“I can’t let you go just yet, the police are on their way to talk to you about what happened.” 

“As they should,” Elphaba scoffed. “My…friend…was nearly run down by a car. Can I see her? Is she alright?” 

“Let me see what I can find out for you.” The nurse vanished down the hall into a private room. He was there for only a second before returning. “You can come sit with her until the police arrive.” 

Nodding her head in thanks, Elphaba sheepishly followed after him, peeking into the space. Seeing Galinda all wired up to machines made her skin crawl. There was a patch of cotton at her hairline, as well as others up the backs of her arms and palms. She was holding a tissue to her nose as it dribbled blood, and Elphaba instantly felt guilty. 

“I didn’t realize I pulled you down so hard,” she said, not sure if Galinda even wanted to see her. “I’m so sorry.” 

“S—sorry? You…you s-s-saved my life, Ephie.” The blonde pulled her tissue away, revealing a red stained lip. There was already a bruise beginning to form around the eye just under the cut. “Better—better this t-t-than being under a-a car.” 

“Yeah. You have a concussion, then?” 

“Y-y-yes.” Galinda scowled. “Th-the s-stuttering is terrible.” 

“It should go away in a while,” Elphaba smiled, pulling up a chair to sit by the other woman’s bedside. “Galinda, someone just tried to run you down…” 

“T—thank you, c-c-cap-captain obvious,” the blonde spat out past her tongue, once again holding her nose. It was a bit funny, seeing her so irritated at being hurt. Still, Elphaba could only crack a half smile. 

“Galinda, this is serious. Someone just tried to kill you. What’s going on?” 

“N—no-nothing you need t-to con—concern yourself wi-with, M—Miss El—El-Elphaba,” Galinda said immediately, shaking her head, only to wince as she did. “I’m fine.” 

“Clearly not. Do you know anyone who might want you dead?” 

“Oh, o-oh, Elphie.” Galinda’s brows scrunched in sympathy. “I—I know m-many people.” 

Chapter Text

“…this is a swanky place, huh?” 

Elphaba stopped her nervous pacing, turning to address the familiar voice spoken from an open doorway. She sighed in relief at the sight of her (now) ex-husband, something she never thought she’d do again. But, for once, Elphaba was actually glad Fiyero came when she asked him to. She was happy to see him, though the circumstances could’ve been better. 

Galinda was currently asleep in the bed Liir no longer occupied, knocked into blissful oblivion by pain medication. She needed to rest. That being said, seeing her mom in such a state sent Peaches into an absolute tizzy. The little blonde cried, completely inconsolable, until Elphaba folded and picked the girl up herself. It had been at least an hour and her biceps were burning, but the poor thing was wrapped around her like a vice, unwilling to let go. 

“Dad!” Liir dropped his toys at seeing his father, scurrying to meet him and showing off his cast. “Look at my arm!” 

“That’s so cool, bud. Looks like you had a fun weekend.” Fiyero ruffled his son's dark hair, glancing up at Elphaba and giving her a pathetic brow. “Sorry for not picking up yesterday. I was—”

“It doesn’t matter,” Elphaba cut him off. “Thank you for coming.” 

“Yeah, of course.” Fiyero stepped into the room, Liir practically clinging to his leg. The boy loved his dad, something that irked Elphaba to no end. Still, Fiyero had his charms, even if they grated on her most—if not all—the time. She’d been in love with him once, after all. The man tilted his head at the girl wrapped in her arms, lips twitching into a slight smile. “And who is this gorgeous little lady?” 

“My friend Peaches!” Liir answered. “She’s deaf.”

“Oh. So she can’t—?” Fiyero tapped his ear. “Hear me?” 

Elphaba shook her head, pressing a kiss to Peaches temple as she curled deeper into the crook of her neck. “No. She’s completely deaf and mostly mute, but still very sweet. If she wakes up while you’re here, she’ll want to know who you are.” 

“Cute. And you’re holding her because…?” 

Elphaba tilted her head to bed where Galinda was still entirely passed out. She supposed this entire crazy incident was a double edged sword. Bad, because the woman had nearly been killed today. But good, because Elphaba somehow doubted Galinda ever managed to sleep more than a few hours at a time. “Her mother is indisposed.” 

“I see.” Fiyero gave Elphaba a once over, his lips wilting. “You’re not looking too hot yourself, babe.”  

“Don’t call me babe,” Elphaba said, giving her ex a scowl. “There was an incident, but it’s handled now.” What happened today was between her and Galinda; Fiyero didn’t need to know about it, nor did Liir or Peaches. “I need you to take Liir for the night.” 

“What?” Fiyero’s brows crumpled. “I can’t, I have…” 

“Fiyero, just…” Elphaba inhaled sharply, reeling in the temper that bubbled so close to the surface of her skin. “Listen to me. I need you to take your son tonight and get him to school in the morning. I’ll pick him up afterwards.” 

“But it’s not my visitation.” 

“I don’t care. Look, Fiyero. I know we’ve been at odds since the divorce, but you love your son. I need you to do this for me.” 

“Elphaba…?” Fiyero seemed to catch on pretty quick that she was on edge, something that was kinda hard to miss, but still. The police seemed entirely unhelpful when they arrived earlier that afternoon, and Galinda refused to tell her what was said in her half of the interview. Elphaba couldn’t say for sure, but it seemed like this wasn’t the first time something bad had happened to her. Certainly not with how utterly blasé Galinda was about the whole thing once she’d regained her senses. Something was terribly wrong, and it was twisting Elphaba’s gut like a beached lamprey. “Is something wrong?” 

“I…I don’t want Liir here right now,” Elphaba told the man, pushing urgency into her tone that she hoped to Oz Fiyero was sober enough to catch. Thankfully, he seemed to be firing on all cylinders today. 

“Ok.” He nodded his agreement. “Ok, I’ll handle it.

“Thank you.” 

“What about you?” 

“I need to stay here for now. As you can see, Peaches is…um…in need of an adult. I am that adult.” 

“Alright, but we play by my rules tonight. That ok with you?” 

“Do whatever you need to do, Fiyero. Please just…be safe. Ok?” 

“We will. I promise.” Elphaba was surprised when Fiyero touched the back of her hand. It didn’t spark like it used to; there was no heat. But it was a comfort, knowing Liir was going to be out and away from this hospital. She could only wish someone would come to take Peaches someplace safe too. But for now, Elphaba was in charge of her until Galinda woke up. “Alright buddy, special sleepover with dad.” Fiyero picked up Liir, who giggled in his joy. The man gathered up his son's things and took him away, safe in his muscular arms. 

“Fiyero!” 

They stopped just before stepping out the door. “Yes?” 

“When you drive home, take the back way. No freeway.” 

“I…ok, Elphaba.” 

“Thank you. Liir, behave yourself.” 

“I will mom!” 

The little boy waved excitedly, chattering in his father’s ear all the while. The pair vanished from sight and a twinge of motherly panic engulfed her. She quickly squashed it down. Fiyero had a car seat in the back of his hot rod; if they were followed, he would have no problem putting the pedal to the metal. Elphaba instead focused on Peaches, who still hadn’t moved from her shoulder. Dragging a hand through the girls long blonde hair, there was a tired moan but nothing more. Knowing Galinda would be out for a while yet, Elphaba carried the child out into the hall to the nearest water fountain. Swinging her into the crook of one elbow, she used the other to get a drink for herself, followed by filling a little cone shaped paper cup. 

“Peaches.” Rolling her shoulder to wake the child up, she groggily lifted her head, blue eyes dazed. Elphaba offered her the cup. “Drink.” 

Peaches took the offering, water dribbling down her lips as she gulped it. The poor thing was probably dehydrated from crying so much. After three cups and a candy from a bowl on the nurses desk, they finally made their way back to the room. Elphaba froze just outside, hearing voices she didn’t recognize. 

“...this wouldn’t have happened if she wasn’t so stubborn,” a woman said in a low voice, thick with an accent Elphaba couldn’t place. “What do we do?” 

“We keep adding pressure,” a man replied back. “She’ll fold eventually.” 

“But it seems like we’re getting nowhere with this…” 

“We just need to be patient, that’s all,” the man insisted. Elphaba inhaled and exhaled deeply, leaning into the doorway to better see what was going on. A tall, older woman with stormy gray hair and a man in thick, dark framed glasses stood at the edge of Galinda’s bed. She wasn’t awake, meaning they were in the room without permission. A shiver zipped up Elphaba’s spine as the stranger reached down, tilting the blonde’s head with a bent finger. “Chuffery was a lucky man, Lurline rest his soul.” 

“Humph. She’s too blonde for my taste,” the woman complained, briefly glancing over her shoulder. Her thundercloud eyes widened at catching Elphaba in the doorway, a sharp elbow immediately jabbing her companion in the ribs. He turned too, weathered face curling into a smile. 

“Oh, hello.” 

Cursing at being caught eavesdropping, Elphaba shifted to stand in the doorway. Peaches–now fully awake–whimpered in fright and ducked her head into her chest. More alarm bells went off, and her unease grew. Peaches didn’t seem like the type to be afraid…not even of strangers. Did she know these people already? 

“Hello,” she greeted tersely, using a hand to gently reassure Peaches that she was safe as the girl trembled in fright. “Who are you?” 

“Oh, my-my, we didn’t mean to scare the little one,” the man reassured. “I am Oz, this is my secretary, Miss Morrible. We’re friends the Upland family. Just came by to see how Galinda was doing.” 

“Friends?” Elphaba let her eyes flick between Oz and Morrible, her green gaze narrowing. They were both well dressed. Business types, it seemed. 

“We were quite close with Mr. Upland, dear,” Morrible explained, her face barely able to form a sincere smile. “And who, may I inquire, are you?” 

“I’m…” Elphaba frowned and hesitated. She didn’t want to give these strangers her information. Something was deeply wrong here. “Fae,” she lied. “Fae West. I’m the…um…the nanny.” 

“Nanny, huh. Well, that’s nice,” Oz nodded. “What happened here, if I may ask?” The man waved to the bed as Elphaba fought back a scowl. 

“Just an incident with a curb. She’s fine.” 

“I see. And when do you suppose she’ll be awake again? We have very important business to discuss, you see. Very important business.” 

“Mrs. Upland needs to rest,” Elphaba told them, inching along the edge of the room. She didn’t want Peaches anywhere near these people; not with the sketchy vibes they were giving off. She was glad to have sent Liir away earlier; her gut was almost never wrong. “Please leave.” 

“No need to be hostile, dear,” Morrible claimed, returning her scowl in kind. “We’re just checking that she’s alright.” 

“Then she’ll get back to you when she’s ready,” Elphaba noted. “Now go. This is a private suite and I will call security.” 

Oz immediately lifted his hands in surrender, motioning to his secretary to back off. “No need for that, we’ll just get out of your hair. But–” he whipped a business card from his coat pocket, lifting it with a strange glint in his eye. “For you, if you ever need anything, Miss West. My information is all right here.” He left the card on the chair nearest to him, offering a bent elbow to Morrible. “Come, my dear. We’ll leave these lovely ladies to their afternoon.” 

Morrible’s pinched lips twitched, but she said nothing. The pair exited swiftly as Elphaba hurriedly kicked the door shut with a foot. Her heart raced and her hands shook in Peaches' hair, but the two never returned. Moving to the bedside, she gently allowed the little girl to finally clamber from her arms, curling into her sleeping mother’s side with another fearful cry. Purely on instinct, Elphaba checked Galinda’s pulse with two fingers, relieved to find it beating healthily. Picking up the left business card, she tilted her head at it:

Oscar ‘Oz’ Diggs, Founder/CEO

Emerald City Corp. 

Creating Utopia Together

Humming under her breath, Elphaba sat down and grabbed her phone from her purse. Flicking it open, she mindlessly began to conduct research. What she found didn’t assuage her worries. In fact, the information made things worse. This Oz fellow was prominent in the news for all the wrong reasons. Fraud, political espionage, harassment and abuse towards employees…all accusations paid out and swiftly brushed under the rug. His company was even worse, bulldozing affordable housing and small businesses for big-land development and expensive luxury condominiums. An elitist with bad political opinions and an equally disgusting demeanor. However, it was the UPLAND-CHUFFERY name that caught her eye when the page asked for relevant search results. 

Clicking the link, she was brought to a new website regarding…Animal Rights Initiatives and Housing Projects? Flicking through the page, Elphaba felt her eyes widen in surprise. She thought Galinda was some sort of CEO…which she was, kinda, but of an entirely different sort than she was expecting. The UPLAND-CHUFFERY LAND ACQUISITION PROJECT (UCLAP) provided homes and apartments for Animals throughout Oz that were affordable and rent controlled. 

Including her current building and many more in the area. 

120-thousand acres of urbanized land. 58-thousand acres of non-developed land. And 12-thousand acres of land TBD. That was almost 200-thousand acres of usable land around Oz, all put into a trust under the UPLAND-CHUFFERY name. The project was worth billions in acerage alone, not including sponsored businesses, rentals, real estate, and even transportation like the Great Gillikin Railway. All things held and operated under the UCLAP trust. A trust owned by Westin Chuffery and Galinda Upland. 

There was a picture of them right here on the webpage, neat in matching white suits. A picture perfect couple doing actual good throughout Oz. They had awards for humanitarianism and philanthropism. Galinda was in a few pictures helping the Green Cross during natural disasters like the flood in Munchkinland a few years back, or wearing a hard-hat surrounded by young Animal families about to move into their new homes. There was even a baby announcement for the birth of Peaches, flooded with loving comments and support from Ozian’s across the country. 

Galinda and her husband were beloved and worked hard to better their communities. A far cry from the snappish and unkind woman Elphaba had met yesterday. Understanding settled on her now as she sank in her chair. Galinda’s husband was on life support. He was dying.

“Sweet Oz.” Elphaba held a hand to her mouth in utter bafflement. She could only assume the business was split between the couple. But with Chuffery not likely to make it, suddenly all of it became Galinda’s. She wasn’t just wealthy, as Elphaba assumed. She was a multi-billionaire. 

And someone—possibly someone Elphaba had now encountered for herself—just tried to kill her. 

Chapter Text

Galinda didn’t wake up until after dinnertime. 

Elphaba kept a close eye on Peaches for most of the afternoon, entertaining the little girl as best she could. But the visit from Oz and his nasty secretary seemed to have spooked her. The blonde had been noticeably on edge since the incident, even so many hours later. Her big blue eyes would nervously flick to the door every few moments, then towards her mother, then back to the door again. 

She’d bullied her way onto Elphaba’s lap again, hiding her face and subsequently falling asleep there. Liir was hardly ever this cuddly, though, he had his moments too. Either way, it was clear to Elphaba that Peaches knew Oz in some capacity. Well beyond mere strangers, seeing how frightened she was. Elphaba wished she knew sign language so she could ask the girl what was going on. She thought about having the girl write her answers, but she was only six. Any handwriting besides her name was illegible. 

So Elphaba was resigned to wait, her fingers prickling with pins and needles from being wrapped around the tiny body for so long. It was a little past six in the evening when there was a very faint shuffle across the room. Galinda began to stir for the first time in hours, slowly waking up from a rest that was very much needed. Elphaba sighed in relief at her return to life. She’d worried something more than just a concussion was ailing her companion; it was in her nature to think up the worst case scenario in every situation. But it seemed Galinda just needed a solid few hours of uninterrupted, medication induced sleep. Shifting Peaches to free up one of her arms, Elphaba winced and shook out her hand to rid it of pins and needles. 

“…Elphaba?” Galinda sat up as though half-dead, ghosting a hand against her temple. “Ouch.” 

“Are you ok?” Elphaba wondered, flexing her palm as burning heat flooded back into the skin. 

“Atrocious, but thanks for asking,” the woman clipped, rubbing a hand across her eyes and blinking stars from her vision. She glanced at the window, blinking in confusion at the darkness which was slowly swallowing the world. Her head snapped to the clock on the wall, then her watch just to make sure. “Sweet Lurline almighty, has it been that long?” 

“You needed the sleep, I guess,” Elphaba noted, tilting her head as Galinda slumped, running a hand across her scalp to push the blonde tresses out of her face. She looked a bit nauseous all of a sudden, her throat bobbing deep behind her collarbones. “Are you sure you’re ok?” 

“I–yes, I’m fine. Medication of any sort has never…never sat well with me, I’m afraid.” As if proving her point, Galinda immediately plucked up the waste bin from the floor by the bed, expelling her stomach into it with a tremor and a groan. This seemed to make her feel better as she sighed, leaning over the edge of the bin with a weak hiccup. “You should’ve seen me in labor. What a mess,” the woman mused, more to herself than to Elphaba as she glanced up from behind loose strands of blonde hair. Her brows scrunched at the sight of Peaches, still koala-clinging to Elphaba’s chest. “Ah. I worried her, didn’t I?” 

“I’ve never seen a child in such a tizzy,” Elphaba chuckled, resting a hand on top of Peaches head. “She gets that from her father I’m guessing?” 

“Very funny,” Galinda complained with a weak but humored scowl. “I’m afraid that’s my doing. I’m not the best role model for keeping a level head.” 

“I wouldn’t have guessed.” 

“You didn’t have to stay, I expected you to leave first thing,” Galinda told her honestly. “Where’s Liir?” 

“His dad came and picked him up.” 

“Oh. I’m sorry I missed him,” the blonde said, her tone airy but not quite sincere. Elphaba curled her lip and shook her head. 

“Don’t be, he flirts with everything that breathes. You’d just be his next target, seeing as you’re so pretty.” 

“Oh?” Galinda’s brow rose and Elphaba realized her error, a certain heat creeping into her cheeks. 

“I–I mean…” 

“No, no, do continue.” Galinda laughed a little at her blustering. “I love being complimented.” 

“I just meant…well…” Elphaba huffed. There was no excuse she could make. “You are pretty.” 

“Hmm. You’re so kind, Miss Elphaba. One of these days, you’ll have to see me at my best, rather than my worst.” 

“If this is your worst, I envy you, Miss Galinda,” Elphaba retorted, causing Galinda to laugh again as her dark, bruised eyes scrunched. 

“Don’t sell yourself short, darling. You’re not bad looking yourself. In fact, I have…well…I do enjoy the color of your eyes.” 

“No jab at my skin, huh?” Elphaba wondered honestly. She’d had the worst eczema her entire life, causing her skin to be patchy and dusky. In the right light, it almost looked greenish. She’d been teased mercilessly since she was a kid over it, learning to cover up with concealers and creams. But there was no cure, so she gave up, forced to live with the face she saw in the mirror each day. Normally, her ashy appearance is what most people saw, followed by her prickly disposition. But then…Galinda didn’t seem particularly bothered by her skin, at least not anymore. If she had been when they met yesterday, she hadn’t mentioned it. 

“I had horrendible acne growing up,” Galinda told her honestly, appearing genuinely sympathetic. “So I know that skin can be quite fickle. It’s hardly what defines you, and it would be shallow of me to pick out such a thing.”  

“Hmm.” Elphaba felt her smile go crooked. “So, my eyes, then?”

“Quite so, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda confirmed, setting down the trash bin and pulling her legs into her lap. At this moment, Peaches stirred in Elphaba’s arms. The deaf blonde lifted her head, blinking groggily from her nap. But, at seeing her mother finally awake, she scrambled down in a hurry. The girl grabbed her crutches with a clatter and all but flew to the woman’s side, blue eyes massive and watery with tears. Galinda offered her arms as she crawled up onto the bed and dove into her mother’s hug, limbs latching around her waist and neck in an impressive monkey hold. 

Elphaba couldn’t help but smile, seeing how Galinda melted into the embrace, lovingly running her nails through her daughter's pale mess of curls. Elphaba herself would get her own version of this hug when she picked Liir up from school tomorrow, nearly falling over from the force of a dark haired bullet ramming into her legs. Eventually though, Peaches pulled away and began to sign. Her motions were so fast, it was hard to imagine she was saying anything at all. But Galinda’s ease quickly shifted. Her brows scrunched and her eyes darkened into twin thunderstorms. She signed back to her daughter in puzzlement, receiving a response that caused her head to whip up and lock onto Elphaba with an alarming intensity. 

“Oz was here?” Elphaba didn’t miss the warble in Galinda’s voice. The fear Peaches displayed earlier suddenly made a lot more sense, as it was now mirrored in her mother. 

“Yeah.” 

“What did he want?” 

“He and his secretary said they had business to discuss with you.” 

“Morrible was with him?” Galinda’s shoulders coiled up like a snake. The disgust was clear as day. Obviously, Oz and Morrible were not ‘friends’ of the Upland family. Not at all. “Did you give them your name?” 

“What?” 

“Oz. Did you tell him who you were?” 

“I…no, I didn’t. I told him I was your nanny. Fae West.” 

Galinda’s shoulders fell. She sighed heavily, her head dropping. “Then you’re smart.” 

“Galinda, who is that creep?” 

“It’s nothing for you to worry about,” the woman replied hesitantly, shaking her head. “You didn’t give Oz your name, therefore it doesn’t matter.” 

“He seems like a bad character,” Elphaba pointed out. “He gave me his card. He’s in the news a lot for all the wrong reasons, it seems.” 

“That and a bag of spice,” Galinda agreed, clicking her teeth. “Take that card and burn it. Oz is no good; you don’t need him anywhere near you or Liir.” 

“But…?” 

“Elphaba, listen to me,” Galinda insisted, her voice firm and sharp. “Do not waste a single moment thinking about Oscar Diggs. He’s a horrible man who’s not afraid to do horrible things to complete strangers if he thinks he can benefit in some way. Just forget you ever met him. Ok?” 

“Is he threatening you?” 

“Elphaba…” 

“Galinda, I’m serious. I know about you too,” Elphaba admitted. “I didn’t realize you were so…um…important.” 

“Important?” Galinda scoffed in irritation. “Don’t lie, Elphaba. It’s disgusting what money causes people to do, you know. I’m a walking hazard, if you haven’t noticed. All because of my husbands stupid, good hearted business venture. I’d much rather be living in a tiny farmhouse back home than dealing with this mess. But I can’t do that.” 

“You’ve done a lot of good,” Elphaba frowned. “You could have someone else do it. There are people who manage this sort of thing for a living, aren’t there?” 

“Who do you think I’ve been dealing with since the accident?” Galinda shook her head, placing two fingers to her temples. “Everyone around me is a moron. They think that because my husband is dying, I’m suddenly a fool.” Pale hands clenched into fists. “Chuffery only ever wanted to do good in the world; it was never about the money. That just happened to come with it. But he was so…so pure. That wonderful, idiotic man, always seeing the best in people. It’s a miracle we managed to get this far without going belly up, what with the people he chose to surround himself with.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“I’m sure you can guess what happens when a frail, clueless woman is suddenly put in charge of a man’s multi-billion dollar investment?” Galinda’s lips twisted. “It’s been a nightmare, Elphie. Just a nightmare. They don’t think I can do it; they think I’ll fold. They’re hounding me day and night like a pack of starved wolves.” 

“To sell the trust?” 

“To disband it and allow the investors to pick over the meat like vultures, like it’s just a buffet of wealth ripe for the taking and not people's lives at risk.” Galinda grabbed her face, which alarmed Peaches who immediately hugged her mother tight. “If I quit now, thousands of people will be evicted. People who can’t afford to live anywhere else. Businesses and homes that foster low-income communities, all gone. Bulldozed and replaced so a few bull-headed bastards can take their share and run. I’m trying Elphaba; I’m trying so hard. But I’m one more threatening letter away from losing sanity and burning it all to the ground.” 

“Threatening letter?” Elphaba stood up, bringing herself to the edge of the bed. “Galinda, what do you mean by threatening letters?” 

“It’s been going on since just after the accident,” Galinda wept, her shoulders quivering with tears. “I’m just trying to…to grieve for my husband. To take care of my daughter who may n–never walk again. And these bastards keep sending me death threats.” 

The connections snapped together in Elphaba’s mind as she bristled. “So this isn’t the first time, then. Something like today…?” 

“It started small,” Galinda sniffled. “Strange letters and emails, phone calls in the dead of night, cars circling out on the street. But it’s only gotten worse. A broken window or two, slashed tires, attempted hacking into company accounts. Someone lit a box of fireworks on my porch a few weeks ago…” 

Elphaba’s brows furrowed again, pinching the skin on her forehead. “What about the police?” 

“They couldn’t catch a rat with a trap if they tried,” Galinda scoffed. “They say there’s too many variables; too many possible suspects. The Sheriff said I should hire privately, rather than rely on them as they have more important cases to cover.” 

“That’s awful!” Elphaba barked, sitting on the edge of the bed and taking in the hospital room. “Is that why you stay in this hospital? Because you’re afraid to go home?” 

“It’s safer for me here…at least it was, anyway,” Galinda slumped again, her eyes downcast. “But it’s my problem, not yours. I don’t need–I don’t want–anyone else in the middle of this, especially not you.” 

“Galinda, you could’ve died today. And if it happens again…?” 

“If it happens again, you’ll be far away raising your son,” Galinda cut her off, waving away her concerns. “Elphaba, please listen. Go home and be with Liir. Forget any of this ever happened.” 

“But–?” 

“No. This is my worry, not yours. I can….I can figure it out. I always have. These are people who can really hurt someone.” 

“Yeah. You.” 

“Better me than anyone else,” Galinda clipped with a scowl, leaning over the opposite side of the bed and grabbing her purse. She fetched a business card from inside and a pen, scribbling across the paper. “Look, as much as I’d prefer you staying away from this, Peaches likes Liir too much. Call me sometime and we’ll set up a playdate. Deal?” 

“I…” Elphaba wanted to argue. She felt a flare of protectiveness in her that was uncommonly hot. But then her logic overpowered her instinct, quelling the flame. She had to think about the safety of her son; they already lived in a neighborhood that wasn’t the best. And the mysterious Oz was…well…he gave her the creeps. And from how scared Galinda seemed to be of the guy, he wasn’t someone Elphaba wanted to know either. As much as she hated to admit it, Galinda was probably right. Not getting involved was for the best. “Ok.” 

“Go home, Elphaba. You’ve had a long weekend; no doubt you have to be at work tomorrow?” 

“I do.” 

“Then have a good evening. Pour a glass of wine and soak in the tub for a while. That sounds simply marvelous, doesn’t it?” 

“What about you?” 

“I’ll be fine, I promise.” Galinda tucked Peaches up against her chest, sighing and resting her chin on the girl's head. 

“You’ll be safe?” 

“As safe as I can be,” the woman agreed, offering a delicate hand. Elphaba accepted it, the handshake slow and soft between them. “It was good to meet you, Ms. Elphaba Thropp.” 

“You too, Ms. Upland,” Elphaba agreed, discontent swirling in the pit of her stomach. “You too.” 

Chapter Text

“…order up!” 

The familiar ding of the kitchen bell snapped Elphaba from her thoughts Turning as a few plates clattered into the delivery window, Elphaba frowned at the state of the eggs. 

“Tibbett, these look dreadful.” 

“Why don’t you try making eggs on a skillet sometime and see how pretty they are,” the boy complained, his head of dark curls bobbing around in the kitchen, though he was too short to actually address her over the steel ledge. “There’s only one of me, you know.” 

“Yes, but we’ve only had three tables all day. You’re hardly overworked.” 

“Don’t tell me about being overworked when you’re standing there daydreaming, Thropp,” Tibbett replied, once again nudging the plates. “Get these out of my window before I spit in ‘em’” 

Scoffing and rolling her eyes in annoyance, Elphaba collected the plates onto a tray, making sure they were at least presentable despite the horrible looking scrambles. “I wasn’t daydreaming.” 

“You don’t normally stand in one place for that long unless your mind is wandering,” Tibbett said factually, ”what’s wiggled its way into your skull this time? Something boring?” 

“None of your business, kitchen boy.” 

“You’re in a shit mood. You match the weather.” 

Elphaba rolled her eyes again, leaving the window with an irritated grumble. It was a gray, dreary Friday afternoon outside the West End Restaurant. Rain attacked the crooked sidewalk and pattered against the dirty glass windows. Only a handful of people had braved the weather for mediocre cafe food; just the usuals who never missed bruncheon. Elphaba was grateful for it; she was exhausted. Dropping the food off at the right table, Crope intercepted her on the way back towards the kitchen. 

“Elphaba, are you pulling another double today?” 

“I hadn’t planned on it.” 

“What?” Crope’s hopes wilted then and there. “But you love to stay.” 

“I’m not staying late just so you can go home early.” 

“But why not? You need the money.” 

“I’m tired and want to go home. Liir’s been a pest with that cast on his arm; he’s been sleeping like shit and the teachers keep giving him sweets at school, meaning he’s sugar-pilled by the time I get him. I need my weekend this time.” 

“Ugh, lame.” Crope pouted, his head turning as the bell above the door chimed. His blue eyes widened a touch, a hand instinctively coming up to flatten his blonde curls. “Well, well. Look what we have here.” 

Turning to see what had captured the young man’s attention, Elphaba blinked in surprise at the familiar face. Galinda was drowning in an oversized sweatshirt, looking a touch raggedy compared to the last time Elphaba had seen her. Peaches swung along behind in a puffy raincoat and plastic yellow bucket hat, her crutches making hollow knocking sounds against the floor. 

“I call it,” Elphaba said at once, watching the two blonde’s sit in her empty section. Galinda practically fell into her side of the booth, while Peaches scrambled onto the opposite bench with some difficulty, arranging her crutches to not be in the walkway. 

“Awe what?” Crope slumped. “But I saw it first!” 

“I have seniority,” Elphaba claimed, giving the disagreeable teenager a shove towards the order window. “My table.” 

“Ugh, fine. I hope they tip like shit.” 

Glaring as as he stalked through the kitchen door to canoodle with Tibbett, Elphaba gathered two menus and some crayons, whisking herself around to approach the table. 

“Welcome to the West End,” she greeted as she set the menus down. “My name is Elphaba. I’ll be taking care of you today.” 

“Miss Elphaba?” Galinda glanced up at her from behind a curtain of hair, expression immediately morphing from drawn to surprised.  The woman looked horrible, her dark circles somehow darker than a few weeks ago in the hospital. She hurriedly tucked locks of hair from her face, only to have it fall right back into place. “I wasn’t…it’s…it’s so good to see you.” 

“You’re a bit far from the east side, aren’t you, Miss Upland?” Elphaba wondered honestly, giving Peaches a friendly smile as the deaf girl enthusiastically took the crayons to begin coloring. “Does this mean you’re officially discharged?” 

“I thought it best to return home. We had one more appointment to attend this morning and the East Side office had no availability.” Galinda gave a tired sigh, though the exhalation of breath made a cough bubble from her throat. Elphaba’s brows immediately furrowed in concern. 

“Are you ok?” 

“Just a touch under the weather, I’m afraid. You pick things up in hospitals.” 

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Elphaba grabbed her notepad and pen, swinging the utensil between her fingertips. “So, what’ll it be?” 

“Coffee with cream and sugar, orange juice for her.” Galinda reached across the table, tapping Peaches on the hand to get her attention. She signed something to her daughter, who’s eyes brightened as she pointed to a part of the kids menu. Galinda’s face scrunched unhappily at the choice as she said something else, only to get the exact same response and a begging pout in return. “Oh…fine ,” the woman muttered, more to herself than to Elphaba. “Chocolate chip pancakes with extra whipped cream.” 

“You got it; one sugar high, extra sugar. And you?” 

“Just the coffee.” 

“You should eat something.” 

“This is Peaches special treat, not mine.” Galinda huffed weakly. “I foolishly promised her anything off the menu. I’m surely going to regret that later.” Elphaba tilted her head a bit, watching Galinda settle against the wall of the booth. She really did look terrible, shoving her arms into the kangaroo pocket of her hoodie and sinking deeper into the fabric. 

“Are you sure you’re ok, Galinda?” 

“A bit tired, is all. Thank you for your concern. I’ll be alright.” 

Clicking her pen a few times, Elphaba hesitantly left the table. Returning to the kitchen, she knocked on the window for Tibbett’s attention. 

“One stack of chocolate-chips with whip…” she paused, glancing over her shoulder. Galinda needed to eat something. “And a morning special. Make sure those eggs are presentable this time.” 

“Fine, bossy.” 

“There’s a beautiful blonde in the booth,” Crope said from where he was vaping on the counter. “She wants good tips.” 

“A beautiful blonde, you say? Well, don’t mind if I do.” 

“You don’t even like women, you crusty toad,” Elphaba complained immediately. “Just get that order out asap, before I come back there and make you.” 

“Ok, ok, sheesh.” 

“I’ll be clocking out on time,” Elphaba told the boys, causing both to groan in unhappiness. “You’ll close up without me.” Neither said anything that wasn’t a profanity, so she left the boys to their complaints, gathering up a few waters, an orange juice, and a fresh cup of coffee. By the time she returned to the table to make the delivery, Galinda was already asleep. Humming under her breath, she glanced at Peaches. The girl was very intent on her coloring, happy as a clam as she kicked her braced legs. 

Continuing the rest of her shift in quiet normality, Elphaba kept a close eye on her singular table. Of course, she got an excited clap upon delivering a heaping plate of sugary pancakes and whipped cream for Peaches, followed by confusion and protest as Galinda was woken up by her own plate of food clattering against the table. 

“...what’s this?” 

“The special.” 

“I didn’t order anything.” 

“I did. You should eat something.” 

“But…” 

“It’s on me. Don’t worry about it.” 

“Elphaba Thropp, for goodness sake, you know perfectly well I can pay for a meal,” Galinda complained, her brows furrowing as she gave another cough. “This wasn’t necessary.” 

“Perhaps not, but it’s still on me. Don’t even think about an exorbitant tip to compensate, cause I won’t take it.” 

“But…ugh…stubborn woman,” the blonde muttered, slumping where she sat. “Thank you.” 

“You're welcome. Let me know if you need anything else.” 

Elphaba left mother and daughter to eat, peeking over every so often. Peaches devoured her plate as a hoard of piranha’s might attack a slab of meat. Galinda ate too, though she picked and prodded at a leisurely pace, only making a small dent before settling back and falling asleep again. Deeply troubled by the sight, Elphaba removed her apron at the end of her shift, hanging it up. She poked her head into the kitchen to alert the boys of her departure, both of whom gave her a middle finger in return. 

Tossing her head at the immaturity, Elphaba shook out her braids from their usual work bun. Nearing the table, Peaches smiled as she approached. Tsking, she knelt down and grabbed a fresh napkin. 

“There’s chocolate all over your face, hon,” she muttered, knowing full well the girl couldn’t hear her. Still, she carefully cleaned the child up, causing her to giggle and kick her feet energetically. No doubt she’d be bouncing off the walls in a minute. And Galinda clearly wasn’t well enough to be dealing with that. Leaning over to give the woman a tap, she immediately sat up, her bruised eyes bloodshot and struggling to stay open. 

“What?” 

“Galinda, you’re sick.” 

“Yes, I believe I already told you that, darling,” the woman grumbled, rubbing her eyes. “Where’s the bill?” 

“Handled. Don’t worry about it.” 

“But Elphie…?” 

“Galinda, come on. This weather isn’t doing you any good.” 

“Where are we going?” 

“Back to mine. It’s not as far a drive as the east side. I’m sure Liir will be over the moon to have a playmate for the night.” 

“I couldn’t impose,” Galinda complained, rubbing her face tiredly. She somehow looked even worse than when she came in. Without thinking about it, Elphaba slapped the back of her hand against the woman’s forehead. 

“You’re running a fever.” 

“I’m fine.” 

“Don’t make me drag you out of here,” Elphaba threatened, snatching Galinda’s purse before she could reach it. 

“Elphie,” the blonde moaned in irritation, sounding a bit like a child as she whined. “This is absurd. I’m not a child.” 

“You’re sure acting like one. I’ll drive; which one is your car?” 

“The only car in the lot that doesn’t have tape on it.” 

Tsking in displeasure at the snark, Elphaba waved for Peaches to come too, waiting patiently for the child to clamber out of the seat and return to her crutches. The car belonging to Galinda was…well…pretty obvious. Indeed, it was lacking the regular wear and tear of a vehicle normally found this deep into the west side of Oz. It’s black paint still shined, lacking any dents or scratches, while the tires were buffed, the wipers were still attached, and the doors had automatic locks. Galinda moved to the driver's side, only to grumble as Elphaba got in her way, pointing to the passenger's seat instead. When the blonde was settled in, Peaches was up next, happy to grab Elphaba’s arms as she was placed into her booster seat and buckled in. The drive wasn’t long back to her apartment, but it was the smoothest ride she’d had, seeing as the Upland's car didn’t rattle, sputter, or randomly stall at red lights. 

Getting inside, Elphaba knew Liir was home already from his shoes messily dropped in the entryway, along with his school bag and jacket. 

“Elphaba? That you?” Fiyero’s voice wafted from the living room. “You’re back early.” 

“Yeah. I brought guests.” Elphaba heard Fiyero scramble, perhaps removing himself from his usual lounding position with a beer in one hand and the TV remote in the other. “Liir! There’s someone here to see you!” 

Guiding her two strays into the apartment, Galinda glanced around at it with a polite smile. Peaches stayed close to her, seeing as they were in a new place. Fiyero stood up from the couch, looking a mess as usual. He clearly liked what he saw at meeting Galinda’s gaze, that infuriating smirk slipping across his lips. 

“Hey,” he greeted, running a hand over his hair to smooth it down. “And who might you be?” 

“Not interested,” Galinda replied sharply, causing Elphaba to snort and Fiyero to wince. 

“Ouch. Spurned right out the gate,” the man teased, once again ruffling his hair and releasing his start of a beer belly. “The name’s Fiyero.” 

“Galinda.” She then placed both hands on her daughter’s shoulders. “And my daughter Peaches.” 

“You’re the ones from the hospital?” 

“They’re friends, Fiyero,” Elphaba complained, nodding towards the door. “You can leave now.” 

“Double ouch. There’s no love for me today.” 

“No. Bye, Fiyero.” 

The man just shrugged, throwing on his coat and heading out for the night just as Liir pounded downstairs. Elphaba didn’t know why he was in his favorite pair of dinosaur swim trunks and a sweatshirt, but he was. Exasperated at the state of her young son, Elphaba didn’t have time to complain as he hightailed it across the living room. 

“Peaches!” Peaches was just as excited as Liir to see her friend, awkwardly accepting his hug despite her crutches. Galinda stared at them for a long time, the smallest of smiles pulling at her lip. “Mom, can we play in my room!” 

“Yes. But keep the door open so I can hear you.” 

“Ok. Come on, I can show you all my dinosaurs and my blocks and my video games…” 

Watching the two six-year-olds vanish upstairs–Peaches all but jumping up the steps on her crutches without issue–Elphaba turned back to Galinda. The tears were not what she expected. 

“Galinda…?” 

“I...had to do it, Elphie.” 

“Do what?” Taking a step forward, Galinda’s lungs fought to get her enough air. Between the sickness and the tears, she was wheezing like a squeaky toy. “Galinda, what’s wrong?” 

“Chuffery is dead. I…I had to tell my daughter that her dad isn’t coming back. Peaches hasn’t been this happy in days.” 

“Oh, Galinda. I’m so sorry.” 

“I’m just so tired, Elphie,” the woman croaked, her hands shaking as she drew them down her face. “I can’t do this anymore.” 

“You’re safe here,” Elphaba insisted, gently touching Galinda’s arm with her palm. “You’re safe, I promise.” 

Galinda nodded, but was overtaken by more rough coughing. The fit was so rough that it nearly sent the woman to her knees, her cheeks a flushed, feverish red. Guiding her to the sofa, Elphaba hurriedly set on a kettle for tea and a pot for coffee, grabbing a dry sweatshirt and pants from her closet to replace the wet clothes her companion currently wore. She didn’t argue about changing, lumbering into the downstairs washroom as Elphaba pulled out the sofa bed. 

It made her wonder if Galinda had anyone to look out for her, or if it really was just her and Peaches. She hadn’t mentioned any family, not her own, or any of her husbands. Smoothing out the guest sheets and fluffing the pillows up, the blonde returned, looking horrifically sick as she’d gone through the effort of scrubbing away her makeup to leave a bare face.  

“You can rest here for a while,” Elphaba said, “Liir will keep Peaches occupied.” 

“You’re awfully kind to someone you haven’t seen in weeks,” Galinda mused croakily, delicately shuffling into the temporary bed as she gave another hack of air. “I was starting to think you’d forgotten about me.” 

“I don’t think I could forget someone like you, Miss Upland,” Elphaba laughed, once again placing her knuckles against Galinda’s forehead with a frown. “You’re burning up. How long have you been sick?” 

“It started a few days ago. But I promised Peaches we’d go out after this appointment. And I can’t…I don’t have the heart to disappoint her right now.” 

“You should take better care of yourself, you know,” Elphaba insisted, moving back to the kitchen when the kettle whistled. She quickly whipped together a cup of tea, as well as a plastic cup of the worst cold medicine known to man. “This first, tea as a chaser.” 

Galinda didn’t put up much fuss; not like Liir did when he had to take medicine of any kind. The tea was accepted and sipped, but it didn’t take long for it to be forgotten as the woman fell asleep, knocked out by the fast acting medication. Making sure she was comfortable and warm enough, Elphaba moved through the apartment like a ghost. She locked and chained the door, checked every window to make sure it was secure, and pulled the curtains. 

Her gut was churning with a bad feeling. Running up the stairs, Elphaba performed the same ritual, pulling the curtains and convincing Liir and Peaches to play a game with flashlights, rather than having the lights on. Just as she returned downstairs, two bright headlights shone through the drawn curtains. Pressing herself against the wall, Elphaba cautiously looked out into the dreary evening. Outside, a black car had stopped where Galinda’s was parked, two men getting out and crouching to check the license plate. 

One of them looked up at the apartments, face hidden under a shroud of shadow. Elphaba knew it was impossible to see her in the dark, but she held her breath anyway. Indeed, the stranger was looking at the many different windows, lingering on those with lights on. Thankfully, apartments seemed like a daunting challenge for the strangers, who quickly got back in their own vehicle and sped away. But Elphaba’s heart was beating fast. Clearly, nothing had changed since she and Galinda had last seen one another. In fact, it had probably only gotten worse. 

And Elphaba had just willingly invited that danger into her home.

Chapter Text

Elphaba didn’t know what woke her first, the loud creaking of the fold out bed, or the sounds of violent retching coming from the partially open bathroom door. Jerking from where she’d dozed off in the reclining chair, she was back on her feet in a second, stumbling drowsily down the hall. So far, the night had been a long and tedious one. Her son didn’t get sick often, but when he did, it took the poor boy down for a few days at least. She knew the sick-kid routine by heart: awake every few hours to check the temperature and manage hydration, keep the big plastic bin nearby just in case, and have a wet towel, tea, and chicken soup always at the ready. 

Except it wasn’t Liir who was sick this time. 

Galinda was seemingly adult enough to avoid the embarrassment of puking into a wastebasket, having whisked herself promptly to the bathroom to puke in the toilet instead. But the woman looked like death in the glow of pale white LED’s, collapsed over the porcelain bowl in a shivering, sweaty heap. Elphaba immediately grabbed a hair tie from the medicine cabinet, pulling back the long golden curls and knotting them into a ponytail. There was a big dark stain down Galinda’s spine, alluding to the intense heat currently radiating off her skin. 

“You’re too hot in this,” Elphaba mumbled, running her nails through Galinda’s ponytail as she would through Liir’s dark curls. “Stay here, I’ll be right back.” 

Galinda said nothing, merely stuck her head in the bowl and emptied her stomach with an uncomfortable groan. Elphaba left her, grateful at least her room was just across the hall. She grabbed a simple white tank-top from the back of a drawer, making sure it was big enough to fit before returning to her companion. Galinda wasn’t over the toilet anymore, leaning against the side of the bathtub instead. There was no color in her cheeks as she seemingly dozed while sitting up, her lips chapped and her eyelids swollen with tears. “Galinda?” 

“...huh?” The woman’s eyes struggled to peel apart, sticky with gunk. Thankfully she hadn’t gotten this way in a full face of makeup. 

“I’m going to take your sweatshirt off.” 

“I… I can…” Galinda reached for…something, but Elphaba wasn’t sure what she was reaching for as she had nothing but a fistful of air. “I can do it.” 

Rolling her eyes at Galinda’s pathetic attempt at ‘helping’, Elphaba merely grabbed onto the ends of each ratty sleeve, methodically separating skin and fabric. She’d fought with Liir enough over his jacket to do it with some efficiency, stripping her companion to the underclothes in less than a minute. Except…the bra couldn’t stay. She didn’t mean to look there, but the angle was right in her line of sight. A red, patchy rash was beginning to form due to the rubbing underwire. 

“Damn,” Elphaba hissed, rising from her crouched position. She tossed the soiled sweatshirt into the hamper nearby, opening the medicine cabinet again to grab her tube of rash cream and the spare thermometer she kept (just in case). “Hold this.” Sticking the metal end into Galinda’s mouth, she uncapped the cream, smearing a bit onto her fingers. “Have you been caring for yourself at all?” She wondered, more to herself than to Galinda. But the blonde woman’s brows crinkled, her face solemn and worn as she looked at her knees. 

That answered that question. 

Purely out of curiosity, Elphaba gently ran her hand through Galinda’s hair again. With the very lightest of pulls, blonde strands broke loose and fell like snowfall from between her fingertips. Though it looked clean at a distance, the hair was greasy and poorly textured. Clearly, the woman hadn’t showered recently and wasn’t eating a proper diet. Frowning at the thought, Elphaba snatched back the thermometer when it began to beep with her clean hand. 

“101.2. That’ s a fever, alright,” she mused, setting the utensil at the edge of the tub. “When’s the last time you got sick, Miss Popular?” 

“I don’t get sick,” Galinda mumbled weakly. “I don’t have time. Too much to do.” 

“Well that’s obviously a lie,” Elphaba muttered. “I need to take your bra off. Is that ok?” 

“I can do it,” Galinda managed weakly, pushing Elphaba’s hand away with her clammy palms. This time, she did actually manage it alone. Perhaps it was more instinctual, how she shrugged from the fabric, rolling her shoulders in a way that instantly made the back clasps come undone. And just like that…she was topless. Elphaba didn’t want to be crude, but she’d be lying if she didn’t admire what was right in front of her for a moment. Of course, Galinda wasn’t a very big woman, but her body suited her frame…well…exactly as it should’ve. She was a beautiful woman, and her husband was indeed a very lucky man. 

Though Elphaba had married Fiyero in the end, she’d experimented plenty in college. She had no preference, finding joy in both men and women alike. But now wasn’t the appropriate time to reminisce. She quickly and violently shook out of her stupor, examining the nasty rash on either side of Galinda’s torso. The blonde winced a little at the cream being gently applied, but didn’t fuss much. When that was done, she shuffled the woman into the tank top, not wanting to leave her topless for too long. 

“You’re too good to me, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda mumbled, looking a touch childish as she awkwardly pulled her gangly legs into a criss-cross position, slouching over her knees. It once again reminded Elphaba of how young she was…only a bit younger than herself. “Apologies for the fuss.” 

“Do you have anyone who can take care of you?” Elphaba asked honestly, grabbing the hose to the shower and turning on the water. Wet hair was great for chasing off fevers; that, and it was filthy and would bother her all night long. 

“Not really. It was just the…the three of us…” Galinda seemed to quickly choke up, sniffling and slamming a hand over her mouth. “Um…m–my parents passed away some time ago, and…and Chuffrey’s are no-contact. We had a nanny for a while, but…” Galinda sighed, her brows furrowing. “I let her go after the accident.” 

“Why? You could use someone now more than ever. Galinda, you’re not ok.” 

“I–I can’t. I don’t trust anyone, Elphie. I…everywhere I look, I see shadows.” Galinda quivered a bit, hiding her eyes as though she were a small child again. “There are people watching me. I swear I’m not just paranoid, I really do see them.” 

“I believe you.” 

“...you do?” Galinda’s brows furrowed. “I don’t feel safe. Not anywhere.” 

“You’re safe here,” Elphaba reassured, shoving the thought of the two strange men scouting out Galinda’s car to the very back of her mind. That was something she didn’t need to know about…at least not yet. Gently, Elphaba bent the woman backwards over the tub, using a knee to support her shoulders while her neck rested on the chilly porcelain. “Ok?” 

“Why are you so kind to someone you barely know?” 

“Because it seems like you need someone,” Elphaba answered, picking up the metal nozzle as she gently loosened Galinda’s ponytail. The woman’s charcoal lashes fluttered as the warm water hit her scalp, washing several days of grime down the drain. “I remember when I got pregnant with Liir. I was so scared, and Fiyero and I were both so young. His parents are useless bums, and my Father disowned me the moment I got pregnant without being married. I didn’t have anyone either. And then when Fiyero and I split, it really was just Liir and I against the world. I got used to not having anyone to depend on.” 

“That sounds lonely.” 

“It can be. I can only be thankful that Fiyero isn’t a complete shithead like his parents and abandoned his son.” 

“I don’t know what I’m going to do Elphie,” Galinda croaked, sounding on the verge of tears again as a harsh inhale rattled her lungs. “My husband is dead. I killed him.” 

“No. No, you had no choice.” Elphaba quickly grabbed the other woman’s cheek, forcing eyecontact. “Galinda, don’t think this was your fault. It’s not. It was a tragedy.” 

“I signed the papers like you’d sign on a mortgage,” the blonde wept, her tears mixing with the water from the showerhead as her chest filled with deep, guttural sobs. “I wanted a miracle, but it never came. I would’ve paid any price. Any amount of money I could give. But there was nothing they could do. Westin was my best friend. I loved him, Elphaba. He was my world…he was Peaches' world. Now he’s dead, and my daughter has to grow up without her dad. And I–I can’t do this.” 

“Ok. Ok, ok.” Hastily turning off the water, Elphaba wrapped Galinda’s hair in a towel. She pulled the woman close, wrapping her up as she sobbed her heart out. It wasn’t pretty crying, either. These were the tears of someone who just lost their other half. Someone who just became a single parent in a cruel twist of fate. Add on being stalked by strangers and thrust to the forefront of a multi-billion dollar business. It was a wonder Galinda had held on for as long as she had.  

It wasn’t a surprise she was so sick. 

Rubbing her hand up and down the woman’s back, counting the rise and fall of her vertebrae, Elphaba raised her head as a new voice rang out through the apartment. Perhaps she didn’t recognize it because she’d never heard it actually speak before. 

“Mommy!” The call was not of her son, but the voice of a little girl in distress. “Mama!” 

“Peaches.” Galinda immediately snapped out of her grief, her body shutting it off like an automatic switch. The tears stopped and her body stiffened as she pushed away from Elphaba, groaning as she struggled to her feet. 

“Not too fast,” Elphaba murmured, grabbing the woman’s arm as she wavered. For a moment she looked ready to pass out, or perhaps be sick again. Thankfully she wasn’t, struggling with her coordination as they left the bathroom. Peaches stood in the empty living room, looking a touch bed-headed and ragged. There were tears in her eyes and a thumb in her mouth, her entire body quivering. An image almost mirroring the one currently hanging off her shoulder. It really was amazing how much Peaches looked like her mom. Liir got his dads looks, and it annoyed Elphaba to no end. 

“Peaches.” Galinda offered her arms immediately, scooping up her daughter who swung along on her crutches. She struggled to lift her, huffing from the effort. But she still managed nonetheless, lifting a hand to sign a question. Elphaba was surprised as the girl spoke in return, rather than signing back. 

“Nightmare,” she mumbled, the word a touch garbled on her tongue. “Mommy, I’m scared.” Peaches had a bit of lisp too, Elphaba realized. But she had a very pretty voice, just like her mom. 

Galinda sighed and nodded her understanding, hugging her child close. She returned to the fold-out bed, all but falling down into it with Peaches still on her chest like a little koala. Elphaba watched as they both fell asleep like that, simply too exhausted to go on. Tossing a blanket over them, Elphaba mindlessly went about cleaning up the bathroom and disinfecting things. When that was done, she went upstairs to check on Liir. The boy was fast asleep in his own bed, worn out by getting to play with his new friend all night long. 

Elphaba only slept for a few scarce hours before sunrise, but the entire apartment was tired. Even she slept in a little later than usual, eventually tottering out to start breakfast in her favorite green pajama pants. Galinda hadn’t stirred an inch since collapsing the night before, though Peaches was now tucked into her side, rather than bear hugging her into strangulation. Mindlessly feeling the woman’s forehead, the fever seemed to have broken sometime in the night, though she was still running a bit of a temperature. 

Gently placing a wet towel across the woman's forehead as she slept, Elphaba worked around the kitchen preparing breakfast big enough for four people. She hadn’t planned on feeding strays when she stopped at the grocery store, so she’d have to pick up more overtime this week to cover the difference. But that wasn’t any different than most weeks. Things were just getting more and more expensive, what with buildings being constantly demolished and rebuilt into luxury parks and high-rises. She hadn’t thought too much about it, but if Galinda did fold and sell the trust, her building would be part of the deal-making.

It was selfish of her, not wanting Galinda to sell-out. The woman was clearly emotionally and physically at her limit, if not well beyond it. Stirring the pot of soup and scrambling eggs in a skillet, Elphaba glanced up as familiar feet padded into the kitchen. Liir was in his second pair of dino swim trunks, Chistery in one hand and the other gripping his wild curls of black hair. He still looked a bit drowsy, but proceeded to hug her leg. 

“...hi, mom,” he yawned. “Can we go to the park later?” 

“Not today, bud,” Elphaba replied, reaching down and ruffling her son’s wild head of hair. “I need you to take care of Peaches for me.” 

“Can’t we both go to the park?” 

“I have to take care of Peaches’ mom, sweetheart,” Elphaba continued, flipping an egg to the correct consistency before moving it to a plate. “She doesn’t feel very good.” 

“Oh. Can we rent a movie instead?” 

“Maybe, if you and Peaches agree on one.” 

“And pizza?” 

“We haven’t even had breakfast yet, you gremlin,” Elphaba chuckled, giving Liir a gentle prod. “Go brush your hair and teeth.” 

“I did.” 

“No you didn’t,” Elphaba chuckled with an eye roll. “Go.” 

“Fine.” 

Tossing her head with a huff, Elphaba blinked when a phone began to go off. It wasn’t her own, she’d know if it was. A frown touched her lips as Galinda groggily sat up, blindly reaching for her handbag which was by the side of the bed. 

“Galinda Upland,” she answered. Her entire body went suddenly ridged a moment later, stiffening from shoulder to tailbone. “Yes…yes, I understand. Of course, thank you.” Hanging up, the woman was seemingly frozen. Sensing that something was wrong, Elphaba immediately took her skillet from the stove. 

“Everything ok?” 

“No.” Turning to meet her eyes, Galinda’s terrified, nearly black disks stared back at her. “That was the security company. My house was broken into last night.”

Chapter Text

Elphaba was not expecting to spend her Saturday afternoon driving a luxury sedan through the Upper East Side of Oz. In fact, she’d never planned to do such a thing at all, seeing as it was so far out of her reality it might as well have been complete fantasy. Not only did she have Liir in the car, who was counting fire hydrants and how many dogs he saw, but two beautiful blonde girls. Peaches was busy gnawing at animal crackers (gloriously deaf to Liir’s nonsensical counting), while her poor mother was knocked out in the front seat. 

Galinda was still too pale for Elphaba’s taste, a green plastic bowl on her lap just in case she felt sick. Thankfully, the nausea seemed to have passed in the night, as had the worst of the fever. That didn’t change the bruised eyelids or the sickly pink tint to her lips, but it was better than more time spent on the bathroom floor. Elphaba had tried to keep her down, but she was too anxious about the possible burglary. The minute Galinda picked up her keys to make a break for it, Elphaba snatched them out of her hand. 

“Absolutely not.” 

“Elphie, for goodness sake.” Galinda jumped for the silver ring with an exasperated eye-roll, only to nearly lose her balance as Elphaba pulled them out of her reach. The blonde woman stomped her foot like a toddler and huffed: “Elphaba Thropp, give me my keys right now.” 

“No. You’re sick; you shouldn’t be going out, let alone driving anywhere.” 

“I’ll be careful.” Galinda made another grab, only for Elphaba to play another round of keep-away in return. “Elphaba! This is important. I need to go.” 

“Then I’ll drive,” Elphaba offered before she could even think twice about it. Thoughts tended to just roll off her tongue around Galinda Upland, whether she wanted them to or not. Galinda just tilted her head and scowled. 

“Who’s going to watch the children?” 

“We‘ll all go. But you’re not driving; I don’t need you passing out at the wheel and ending up in a ditch somewhere.” 

“I would never.” 

A lie. Galinda had barely made it ten minutes before she was asleep, slumped against the cool glass of the passenger side window. It was raining again, meaning her pale skin looked even paler in the indigo light of the cloud cover. Elphaba wished she’d managed to convince her to just stay at the apartment, but it didn’t seem like there was much that could keep Galinda down for long. 

Having never driven into the east side before, Elphaba had to pay extra close attention to the navigation system to avoid getting lost. But she was also constantly checking the mirrors, watching for any car that looked out of place or stayed too close behind them. There didn’t seem to be anyone following the sedan…at least not yet. But she didn’t trust her own eyes in the slightest. Elphaba would’ve felt much more comfortable in her old junker, but worried it wouldn’t be able to make it from one side or the city to the other without the possibility of getting stranded. So Galinda’s car was the vehicle of choice, as nervous as it made her. 

And she was nervous. 

Elphaba wasn’t a detective or anything, but her bad feelings were off the charts. This ‘break-in’ seemed like a very convenient way to draw Galinda out (which it did), and to get her alone (which it could’ve). And in her current condition, she wouldn’t be dodging any stray SUV’s successfully. Luckily the drive was an uneventful one, filled only by Liir’s mundane chatter, Peaches munching, and the soft songs on the radio. 

The Upland house was exactly what Elphaba expected it to be. 

It was an older style home with a sprawling and well kept emerald lawn. The property was surrounded by a tall iron fence lined with wall-hedges and colorful flower beds. Despite being in a relatively urban neighborhood, it was set a good way back from the street, hidden from view besides a glimpse or two from the sidewalk. The building was quite lovely; an ivory painted rambler with tall ranch windows and a wrap around porch complete with a swing. There was even a backyard pool, something which Liir immediately became excited about as he had—once again—chosen swim trunks for his pants. 

Perhaps he manifested an afternoon swim for himself? 

There was single a police car waiting outside the home with two officers standing near it. One man, and one woman, both in full attire. Elphaba clenched her fingers nervously around the wheel, exhaling as she threw the sedan into park. She glanced over at her companion with a frown. 

“Galinda?” No response. Elphaba hated to wake her, knowing how little she’d actually been able to sleep so far. But she gently reached over anyway, brushing the back of her fingers against the blonde’s arm. The wake-up call wasn’t gentle enough. Galinda spooked, jerking awake with a sharp gasp of air and big, red-ringed eyes. “Relax, it’s just me,” Elphaba soothed, allowing her hand to linger as Galinda fought to compose herself. “Are you ok?” 

“...mhm.” 

“You don’t look ok.” 

“I–I’m ok,” Galinda insisted, swallowing thickly and squeezing her eyes shut. Elphaba didn’t miss how her pale fingers curled around the bowl still in her lap, possibly preparing to be sick. But the moment just as quickly passed, followed by the gentle ruffle of her shoulders and a very light toss of her hair. Galinda’s throat bobbed as she swallowed. “I’m fine.” 

“If you’re sure.” 

Galinda gave her a smile, though it was tight if not entirely insincere. Lingering behind to get Liir and Peaches out of their designated booster seats, Elphaba watched her companion breezily greet the arrived officers, unfurling a pink-canvas umbrella which had been stuck in the door. She spoke with them briefly before waving a hand, sending the two off towards the house. 

“Go play in the yard,” Elphaba told Liir once the kids were both out and the car was properly buttoned up. “Take Peaches with you. Don’t leave my sight, don’t roll around in the mud, and don’t go near the pool.”  

“Ok mom!” Liir grabbed Peaches and dragged her–crutches and all–off to play, while Elphaba approached Galinda from the side, giving her a wide berth as to not catch her by surprise. 

“What happened?” 

“They had to get my permission to go inside,” Galinda noted primly, her posture very stiff as her fingers curled around her umbrella handle. Elphaba just sunk deeper into the hood of her raincoat, shoving both hands in her pockets. She wasn’t fond of rain. “They’ll do a sweep, make sure no one is inside, and then be on their way.” 

“Oh. Do you think anything was taken?” 

“If there was, I’ll just make a report. No need to waste these nice officers' time.” Galinda turned the umbrella in her hand, once clockwise, then back again. She looked almost like a statue, her posture rigid and her knees locked. The skin of her knuckles was almost translucent. Sensing something was wrong, Elphaba pursed her lips. 

“Are you sure you’re ok?” 

“I…” Galinda’s voice caught on the back of her teeth. She shifted nervously in her high heels despite the rocky gravel of the driveway. “I haven’t been here since that day.” 

“What?” Elphaba’s brows scrunched. 

“I haven’t had the courage to come back. Not since the accident.” Galinda turned her umbrella again, shaking water drops from its rungs. “When I step through that door, I know that everything will be exactly as it was.” She glanced at Elphaba over her shoulder, brown eyes tired and deeply haunted. “Nothing is the same as it was, Elphie. It won’t ever be again.” The blonde inhaled sharply as her head fell, her entire body beginning to tremble. Not knowing what to do or say—what could she?—Elphaba stepped closer. 

Hesitantly, she placed her hand on Galinda’s shoulder. Resting it there for a moment, she allowed her fingers to gently caress the back of the woman’s neck, smoothing the pale angel hairs at her nape. Elphaba used to do this with Fiyero; usually when he’d come home frustrated about having to work dead end jobs, only to get laid off a few months later. She knew now that he was causing her more stress than was healthy, but they were young and in love. She wanted to be that loving, tender wife all girls dreamed of being. That was, of course, until her tenderness stopped being reciprocated. 

Galinda’s neck muscles were taught, pulled so tightly across her bones they felt like steel. Elphaba could barely make a dent in the tension as she gently pressed into the skin, rubbing the flat of her thumb over a rather large knot. When her companion winced with a small whimper of pain, she immediately stopped. Elphaba was surprised when she was just as quickly reprimanded. 

“Please don’t stop,” Galinda croaked, not looking up from where she was burning holes in the wet gravel with her eyes. 

“Does it hurt?” 

“Only a little sore. Please just…I don’t want to feel alone.” 

“You’re not. I’m right here.” 

Continuing to gently work the kinks out of Galinda’s neck, eventually she began to relax. Her shoulders dropped as she sighed, leaning into Elphaba’s fingertips layered knots released from the musculature. 

“You need to see a professional, Miss Galinda,” Elphaba complained when her own fingers began to hurt. “You have knots the size of golf balls in your neck.” 

“I don’t need a professional when I have you, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda laughed in return, her lips pulling into a weak smile. It quickly faded though when the two police officers exited the house. Her umbrella turned once, than twice. Elphaba stopped the massage, but didn’t remove her hand from the back of Galinda’s neck. A silent reassurance that she was still there. 

“Mrs. Upland,” the female officer greeted. “We’ve done a full sweep of the house. There’s no one inside; you’re not in any danger.” 

“How did they get in?” 

“The back door was pried open,” the male officer said. “You may want to invest in stronger hinges.” 

“We didn’t notice anything obviously out of place. Maybe the intruders got interrupted or scared away by the alarms? But if anything does turn up missing, please make a report as soon as possible.” 

“I will. Thank you, officers.” 

Nodding politely, Galinda and Elphaba watched the pair leave, pulling away in their squad car with a squelch of wet gravel. 

“Nothing taken?” Elphaba shook her head. “Why’d they break in at all?” 

“I don’t know.” 

“If you don’t mind my asking. If you haven’t been staying here, where have you been living?” 

“We—I—still have an apartment downtown from before Peaches was born. Chuffery and I moved when we decided to get pregnant.” 

“We?” Elphaba tilted her head in confusion. Galinda simply nodded. 

“Yes. Starting a family took some planning on our part; it was many years in the making.” 

“Planning a pregnancy,” Elphaba mused, finally retracting her hand as she drew her nails through Galinda’s long blonde hair. “How’d that go? Isn’t having a baby kinda…I dunno…unpredictable?” 

“It is for people who can get pregnant spontaneously, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda chuckled, beginning to walk towards the porch. The rain was coming down harder now, plopping in fat drops against her umbrella. “Chuffery was infertile. He couldn’t give me a baby on his own, so we had to explore other avenues.” 

“Oh.” 

“You wouldn’t know it, seeing as Peaches stole my face. But she has—she had—two fathers once. Markai was such a sweet man, too. One of Chuffery’s old Uni mates. Certainly a gentle lover with the most beautiful bright blue eyes.” 

“And your husband was ok with that?” Elphaba gawked, only to quickly shake her head at how it sounded out loud. “I mean…sorry…that came out wrong. It’s just…Fiyero was always fooling around, I never knew what he got up to when I wasn’t looking. Your husband let you sleep with another man like that? To get pregnant?” 

“It was actually Westin’s idea,” Galinda noted breezily, ascending the shallow porch steps and lowering her umbrella with a jostle. “I wanted to go the medical route, but he insisted that I find the experience pleasurable, rather than clinical. So the three of us drank a lot and…well…you know the rest.” Galinda’s brown eyes went starry as she smiled, a very faint red tint glowing into the corners of her cheeks. “That was a lovely night, I’ll never forget it. Markai ended up passing away before Peaches was born, but she’ll always know him as her Uncle Mark.” 

“Hmm.” 

“Pardon if I come off too bluntly, Miss Elphaba. But I can only assume based on your questions that Liir was not planned?” 

“Not at all,” Elphaba sighed, rubbing the back of her head as she leaned against the porch railing. Out in the yard, Liir and Peaches were busy splashing in puddles, or pulling worms from the grass and chasing each other around with them. “Fiyero and I were both young and stupid. He fooled around with a lot of girls before me; I knew that. But I thought maybe I was ‘that’ girl, you know? The one that he’d stay and settle down for. I loved him. And he did settle for a little while; we got married and moved in together. But…” Elphaba clicked her teeth unhappily. “I guess it’s just too much to ask for someone like Fiyero to change.” 

“People can change,” Galinda noted pensively. “But only if they choose it for themselves.” 

“I wish Fiyero had chosen to change for me,” Elphaba sighed, something painful aching in her heart. “I wish he’d stayed, so that Liir didn’t have to live between us.” 

“You can only do the best you can, I suppose,” Galinda mused. “I hope you don’t think you’re a bad mother because someone else chose not to change. Because that’s not true at all.” 

“What if he resents me for it?” Elphaba wondered, more to herself than to Galinda as the rain came down in miserable gray sheets. “Liir loves his dad. Sometimes I think he loves him more than me.” 

“I felt that way sometimes too. Westin could never say no to Peaches. She was spoiled by him like nothing else. She was her daddy’s little princess. I was always the one saying ‘no’; the not so fun parent. But that’s all gone now.” Galinda sniffled, rubbing a hand against her nose as tears began to leak. Unfortunately, this seemed to bring out a coughing fit as Galinda struggled to catch her breath, leaning heavily against the banister. 

Elphaba quickly grabbed onto the woman to keep her from wavering, her skin cold as ice in the wet weather. 

“You’re not doing too good, let’s get you inside.” 

“I’m ok, I promise.” 

“Try to convince me again when you’re not shivering,” Elphaba scoffed, shedding her raincoat to wrap it around Galinda’s shoulders instead. Putting two fingers between her lips, she gave a sharp whistle to catch Liir’s attention. “Liir! Grab Peaches and let’s get inside!” 

“Will you make hot cocoa, mom?” 

“If you can get here in the next two seconds.” 

Liir didn’t waste any time, urging Peaches out of the rain as the two six-year-olds scrambled up the porch and through the front door in soggy, laughing blurs. Elphaba smiled at the sight, but was forced to readjust as Galinda leaned heavily against her with a tired groan. “Ok, Miss Popular, let’s get you inside too.” 

“You’re too good to me, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda complained, giving another weak cough as she pulled the raincoat tighter around herself. “Thank you.”  

“Yeah.” Elphaba tipped her head, gently pulling locks of blonde hair back over Galinda’s shoulders and knotting her fingers in the soft strands. They were practically nose to nose in the doorway, close enough that Elphaba could see tears forming at the corners of her companions eyes. She wiped one away with her thumb as it crawled down the woman’s pale cheek, rubbing it between her fingertips. “Whatever you need, Miss Galinda.” 

Chapter Text

Elphaba always wondered what it would be like to own a house. 

Despite Fiyero’s family having a lot of money, he’d burned his bridges by knocking up a girl without being married first. Elphaba’s situation was the same. Both of them were cut off from their family and any possible financial support they could offer. Neither of them had an education after dropping out of college to ‘travel’, so money was always a hot spot in their marriage. Fiyero was too much of a bachelor at heart to stress about finances, while Elphaba worked to the bone and had brains, but no diploma to match. So, they bounced from apartment to apartment, job to job, moving when rent got raised or walls had mold, or the school decided they were at capacity and Liir had to switch before starting first-grade. 

Finding an apartment in the crime ridden west side of Oz was the last step before living out of her old junker. It was a crummy choice, but the only choice in order to keep her son’s life somewhat stable as he got older. The apartment she’d found was a blessing, both updated and rent controlled even if it was small. It was bigger, now that Fiyero was officially out and not hogging space with his uselessness. But still not perfect, and Elphaba wished she could give Liir more room to play and run. Breaking his arm after finding a tire by the dumpster out-back just reinforced that sentiment. She hated the idea of her too-young son rifling around in actual trash to find something to entertain himself. And when that failed to excite him, what then? Elphaba never questioned her situation too much. She was lucky to have her crummy apartment. And though she wasn’t faithful, she thanked the Unnamed God for the gift. Except…it wasn’t God, or even Lurline who made living in relative safety possible. She knew why her blessing existed now, and it had nothing to do with faith. Technically, she was now standing beside the woman who owned the building where she lived. A woman who looked absolutely terrible, falling asleep while standing as she waited for the teakettle to boil. 

Galinda insisted on helping in the kitchen, though Elphaba had no idea why. The blonde apparently didn’t really know her way around things, let alone how to make a proper meal for two soaking wet children now running around the house somewhere. Elphaba wasn’t expecting Galinda to be so clueless, seeing as she was seemingly so independent most other times. But she’d at least managed to put the kettle on successfully, leaning heavily against the kitchen counter dozing while the water boiled. Conveniently, there was packaged hot chocolate and mini marshmallows in the cupboard to appease Liir’s needs, but the kitchen itself was in disarray. Things were still set out from a long-forgotten morning, seemingly abandoned in a hurry. There was still a plate set with a single piece of stale, moldy toast on it. A mug was shattered in pieces on the floor. The food in the fridge had long since gone bad, creating an actual biohazard. There were dishes in the sink and shoes by the kitchen door, and Galinda herself, standing there like a stranger in her own home. 

“Galinda?” 

“Hmm?” The woman looked up, pale as a sheet and clinging to the edge of the counter as though she’d collapse any second. Elphaba worried she might. 

“The pot?” 

“Oh!” The teapot was steaming and whistling, having gone completely ignored by its minder. Galinda quickly removed the water, but Elphaba hurried to her side to take it when the porcelain nearly slipped from her fingers. She was trembling like a leaf. “Sorry.”

“I think you need to sit down,” Elphaba said, abandoning her task for a moment and grabbing onto Galinda’s elbow. “Are you feeling ok?” 

“Y–yeah. Yeah, I’m ok.” 

“Are you sure?” 

“I think I’ll just go wait in the living room…” 

“Ok. I’ll bring you some tea.” 

Galinda nodded, pushing away from the counter and leaving Elphaba’s grip. She watched her go with a frown, hurriedly removing pots and pans from the stove, not wanting anything to burn. She apparently wasn’t fast enough as there was a sickening thump just out of sight. “Galinda?” No response. Her heart lurched as she pivoted on a heel. “Galinda!” Leaving the kitchen in a panicked rush, her companion had inelegantly collapsed to floor, having not even made it to the couch. “Galinda! Hey, hey, hey, you’re alright.” Kneeling at the woman’s side and rolling her over, her dark lashes fluttered as Elphaba pulled her up against her knee. “Galinda? Wake up for a second.” 

“...ouch…” the blonde hissed, her arm shivering as she delicately touched her head. Clearly, she’d actually been caught in a faint, rather than a trip or mere loss of balance. 

“What’s wrong? What happened?” Pressing a hand to the woman’s forehead, she seemed to be feverish again, her skin giving off a horrible blistering heat. 

“I’m so sorry.” Galinda blinked drowsily, grunting as Elphaba carefully sat her up. “I just got so dizzy all of a sudden.” 

“Can you get up?” 

“I…I’m sure I can.” Galinda placed her hands against the hardwood floor, attempting to stand. But her arms shook, unable to even get herself turned over. Her skin was beginning to glisten with a familiar sheen of perspiration, dark eyes painfully dazed. Grateful her crappy living situation at least offered a complimentary gym (that being one weight machine and a treadmill), Elphaba scooped Galinda up off the floor without a second thought. The blonde didn’t even complain, something that proved she was feeling horrible. Had she been healthy, Elphaba knew she wouldn’t hear the end of picking her up like a sack of rice. 

She briefly considered laying the blonde on the nearby sofa, but thought it best to find something a bit longer term. It was impossible to say how long she might be down for the count this time, and Elphaba didn’t want to move her again if she fell asleep. Deciding against the master bedroom, Elphaba found what looked to be a guest room instead. It was pristine, seemingly untouched for when the Upland’s had visitors. She set Galinda down in a corner chair, removing a hair tie from around her wrist and pulling the woman’s honey-gold locks into a ponytail. Elphaba stripped her down, back into the tank top and spandex which had been hidden under her clothes from their unexpectedly quick morning. Thankfully, she didn’t have to go through the process of fully undressing Galinda a second time in a single weekend. Leaving the woman for a moment, Elphaba pulled back the bedsheets and fluffed up the pillows. “Alright, princess,” she ordered, glancing over her shoulder. “Into bed.” 

“I’m really ok,” Galinda complained, wavering in the chair as though ready to tumble forward. “I’m fine.” 

“We should’ve stayed at the apartment. And now you’ve got a big old bruise on your head.” Examining the black and blue splotch already beginning to from on Galinda’s hairline from the unexpected faint, Elphaba huffed. “How have you managed to last this long, hmm? You’re not taking care of yourself; you’re definitely not fine. This is dangerous for you, Galinda. What gives?” 

“I…” Galinda hesitated, perhaps thinking of denying her current state. But she slumped in the chair, too exhausted to argue and staring at her bare knees instead. “I’m not used to being alone.” The admission was tiny, almost childlike in its timbre. “Westin always took care of me. He cooked and cleaned, or if he was busy, he brought in people to do that for me. I'll be the first to admit I was terribly spoiled. Almost as badly as Peaches.” Galinda whimpered, her brows furrowing. “I took care of the finances. The taxes and allowances and management of the trust, but I did that from here. He let me stay home to raise Peaches and be her mom without having to worry. He was just…like that. My very own Prince Charming. The day of the accident was the one day I had to be in the office for the annual financial report. It should’ve been me, Elphie. It always should’ve been me.” Galinda grasped her face in both hands, clutching at her scalp in desperation. “I don’t know how to do this. I have to care for Peaches, but I don’t know how to do anything. There are shadows everywhere; I can’t trust anyone because they’re just faceless silhouettes. I can’t cook, I can’t do laundry, or–or work the furnace, or do car repairs. The finances are a mess, the trust is on the brink of collapse, and I–I can’t keep things straight because it’s all just…dizzy. I’m so dizzy. I don’t feel well, Elphaba.” 

“I know. I know, Galinda, it’s ok…”

“It’s not. I’m trying, but I can’t.” 

“You don’t have to worry about it right now,” Elphaba reassured, running a hand through the woman’s hair to smooth it back into its ponytail as she crumbled. “All the little stuff? I got it. You need to rest and get better. Peaches needs her mom more than anything, and you can’t be there for her if you’re collapsing.” 

“I just want to bury my husband,” Galinda wept, her entire form shaking with the beginnings of tears. “I want to bury my husband and for this to be over.” 

“Running yourself into exhaustion isn’t helping you, Galinda,” Elphaba urged, rubbing the woman’s knee with her palm, gently scratching the skin with her nails. “You need to get better for Peaches. You know she works herself into an absolute tizzy about you. She’d want you to get better for her.” 

“Yes, because us Upland women are the Queens of keeping calm,” Galinda spat, not out of malice but frustration. “Elphie, I can’t do this anymore. I’m so tired. I want my husband.” 

“I know, Galinda. You can do this; you’ve made it this far. You just can’t right now; not like this. Will you rest, please?” 

“Are you giving me an option?” 

“No.” 

“Then you’ve answered your own question,” Galinda scowled, her face scrunching. Elphaba could only quirk her lip in slight humor. 

“You’re a brat when you’re sick.” 

“Humph.” Galinda stuck up her nose, but the tears in her eyes made it far less effective. Elphaba scoffed and rolled her eyes, pulling the woman up onto her shoulder and elegantly shifting her into bed. Then…it was done. Galinda was gone the moment she was in the safety of the blankets, her throat dipping with each shaking breath. 

“What are we going to do with you, Miss Upland?” Elphaba whispered, running a hand against the back of her neck. Leaving the door open, just in case, she returned to the living room. Liir and Peaches had reappeared, though her son’s hair was badly tousled. It was dry though…had Peaches toweled him off herself? 

“Liir, Peaches.” Taking both children by the arms and pulling them into the living room, Elphaba knelt. Obviously, she didn’t speak sign language to properly communicate with the younger Upland-girl, but she held a quiet finger to her lips and nodded towards the hall. “Don’t wake Miss Upland, ok? You need to play quietly.” 

“Can we still have hot chocolate?” Liir asked, his big eyes shining. Elphaba nodded her approval, grabbing the TV remote and turning it on. There was already a kid's channel on standby, with big white subtitles flicking along the bottom. 

“Yes, but you’ll drink it quietly and on the floor. No spilling on any furniture.” 

Liir nodded his agreement, pulling Peaches down to sit with him as they were immediately distracted by whatever cartoon was playing. Grateful for that, at least, Elphaba returned to the kitchen to finish preparing the hot chocolate and some canned spaghetti from the cupboard. Once the kids were properly fed and occupied, she returned to bag up the rotting food from the fridge and cupboards, wrinkling her nose in disgust. Every other surface was coated in dust, having been abandoned for months, while the plants in the windowsill had withered and died. 

Tossing the various bags out back, she left the kitchen neat before wandering through the rest of the house. Despite the break-in, nothing seemed to be out of place. No dust had been disturbed from anything, the house well-kept, but obviously lived in. At one end furthest away from the pool was Peaches room, decorated as expected in bright yellow paint, sunflowers, and horses. It was a complete wreck, perhaps from the kids having been playing in here earlier. There was a bathroom suited for a young child, a few closets, a home office with the door slightly ajar but otherwise left untouched (not even the computer was taken), and two other guest rooms not including the one occupied by Galinda herself. 

Wandering from one side of the house to the other, Elphaba felt a shiver tickle up her spine as she walked into the narrow hall nearing the poolside of the estate. There was less kid-stuff here, the walls hung up with various photographs. Having never actually seen Galinda’s husband before now, Elphaba paused to look at a family photo. She could recognize the two blondes, but they stood with a tall, limber man with dusted skin, dark hair, and stormy blue-gray eyes. Even in pictures it was clear he had a friendly disposition about him. And indeed, he wasn’t bad looking either. There were pictures of him cutting the ribbon in front of an impressive glass building, another of him and Galinda standing with Ozian Mayor Locasta. There were vacation photos and silly selfies, all meticulously framed and organized. 

Clearly, Westin and Galinda loved each other very much. 

The very last picture hung beside the door of what Elphaba could only assume was the master bedroom. The door was shut tight, and she had no plans to enter. But by the door was a rather large, framed wedding picture. It was taken someplace tropical, with Galinda in a beautiful white wedding dress and veil, with her husband in a sharp black suit. But it wasn’t the picture that caught her attention. It was the napkin which was framed just underneath. There was handwriting on it. The thin paper was pressed with the initials ‘C-U’, Chuffery-Upland, so it was more than likely from their wedding day: 

‘Hey gorgeous, 

I noticed you across the bar just now; I’m the dark haired one in the suit? You’re the most exquisite woman I’ve ever seen. Kinda hard to miss since you look great in white. I don't know if you have a husband or anything, but this dark and handsome stranger would like to make your acquaintance. Maybe get you some champagne? We can dance all night and enjoy the scenery; maybe we’re even soulmates and can spend the rest of our lives together. I hear walks along the beach are splendid this time of year. We can kiss by the ocean; maybe you’ll even say you love me. I’d like that. What do you say, pretty girl? 

Eternally yours, 

Westin.' 

Humming under her breath, Elphaba ghosted her fingertips across the glass of the frame. Is this what it was supposed to be like? She and Fiyero didn’t have a wedding. They went to the courthouse to sign documents and ate hot dogs on the gas station curb afterwards. There was no congregation, no family, no beautiful dress or nights on the beach. It was just the two of them, barely able to make ends meet and with a son soon to be arriving. 

“...Elphie?” 

Elphaba snapped from her thoughts, pivoting. Galinda leaned in the open doorway of the guest bedroom looking dangerously pale. She hadn’t even been down for five minutes. 

“What are you doing up again?” 

“I felt queasy,” she admitted honestly, running a hand across her eyes. “Are you alright?” 

“Just looking at the pictures,” she replied simply, staring up at the wedding photo again. “Your wedding was beautiful.” 

“It was,” Galinda nodded solemnly. “I’ll never forget it. It was the happiest day of my life. Well…happiest next to the day I gave birth. Though that was a bit less glamorous.” 

“No kidding,” Elphaba chuffed, remembering her own experience in Oz General’s maternity ward. It certainly wasn’t glamorous, but bringing life into the world never was. “Go back to sleep. I’ll bring you a wastebin if you feel sick.” 

“How demeaning,” Galinda moaned, tsking in her cheek. “Where’s Peaches?” 

“Watching cartoons with Liir in the living room. I’ll take care of her.” 

“Elphie, you’re doing far more than you need to,” Galinda complained, still leaning in the doorway as Elphaba approached from the end of the hall. “You should be at home enjoying your weekend. Not here in a house full of ghosts with me.” 

“I’m invested now,” Elphaba shrugged, looping her fingers through a loose curl of Galinda’s hair and tucking it behind her ear. “It’s ok.” 

“I’ll pay you,” Galinda told her. “I’ll compensate you for all of this. Please, Elphie, this shouldn’t be what you’re spending your time doing.” 

“If I say yes, will you go back to bed?” 

“...I suppose.” Galinda averted her gaze, pouting despite her bruised eyelids. “I just feel terrible. I should be able to handle myself.” 

“You’ve been through a lot. You’re stronger than me, dealing with all this. But I’ve got you now, ok? You’re safe, you’re not alone. It’s ok to close your eyes.” 

“But…” 

Elphaba waved a hand, silencing Galinda’s weak protests. “It’s fine. Please get some sleep? I’ll bring you a cup of tea and some soup or something. Ok?” 

“I…ok.” Galinda slumped, thoroughly defeated. As she retreated back into the bedroom, Elphaba was sure the door remained open. As promised, she fetched a plastic lined waste bin, just in case. Returning to the living room to sit and relax for a moment herself, Elphaba hissed as she hit a table with her hip. Galinda’s white handbag fell to the floor with a clatter. 

Cursing at the spilled contents, Elphaba immediately knelt to gather the items. She wasn’t paying much attention to what she was holding until her hand wrapped around something smooth and cylindrical which had rolled under the tableleg. Puzzled, she slowly brought it to her face. The orange medication bottle was empty besides some dust stuck in the bottom. Despite it not being any of her business, Elphaba turned the bottle over to check the prescription date. Maybe it was a medication Peaches needed? 

Rolling the container between her fingertips, the label…didn’t look quite right. It was handwritten rather than machine printed, numbers and letters scrawled in a looping hand across the bottle. It was the dash marks which worried Elphaba. Dash marks in increments of five, usually representing passing weeks. There was no name on the pills. No instructions by a doctor. No refill date. Just an empty label with weeks upon weeks of hand-written tallies. Elphaba swallowed hard, the realization of what Galinda had actually been doing to keep herself going finally dawning on her. 

“Oh Galinda,” she whispered, clutching the plastic bottle hard. “What are you doing to yourself?”

Chapter Text

Losing her job over a pan of soup wasn’t what Elphaba planned for. She’d picked up the call from her boss without a second thought, assuming she was being asked to come in and cover. A polite decline was on the tip of her tongue. But Mr. Killyjoy—one of the few Animals to run their own business on the west side of Oz—just sighed heavily on the other end of the line, his old K-9 lungs rattling. 

“Elphaba? Um, I’m sorry to tell you this kiddo, but I won’t need you to come in on Monday.” 

“What for?” Elphaba felt her gut twist. “Is something wrong?” 

“No, no. It’s just…I’m old now, you know, and I think it’s about time I retired.” 

“What are you saying?” 

“I got an offer from a developer that I’d be stupid to refuse. I sold the restaurant, effective immediately.” 

“Oh.” Elphaba turned off the stove burner, falling against the counter as her breath caught. Think positive. Think positive. This wasn’t happening. “Does the new owner need staff?” 

“The building is being demolished first thing on Monday. New Emerald City apartments will be going up.” 

Elphaba winced and scowled, her nails pressing into the quartz countertops. Oscar Diggs. Of course it was him; she’d seen his mark all over the west side ever since meeting him in the hospital. More and more empty lots and derelict businesses were being scooped up by his people. Now, he was starting to buy out existing businesses too. “I’m sorry, sweetheart.” 

“We’ll make do,” Elphaba croaked, pushing down the warble in her voice. She didn’t need to cry. Crying wouldn’t do her any good. “You can send my last paycheck in the mail.” 

“Of course. I hope you find something better for yourself, kiddo. You’ve got a bright future.” 

“Yeah. Bye, Mr. Killyjoy.” 

Hanging up, Elphaba hissed in unhappiness as she tossed her phone down with a clatter. Turning to lean on her arms, she squeezed her eyes and scrunched her forehead. Don’t cry. Don’t cry. Don’t cry. She loved working at the restaurant, as crummy as it was sometimes. Mr. Killyjoy was flexible with her when it came to Liir, the wage wasn’t the worst, and the people were generally friendly. It was even in walking distance to her apartment, seeing as her car was on its last leg. Now, that was all gone. 

“Fuck!” Elphaba hissed, slamming her knuckles down on the countertop with a frustrated growl. It took her ages to find that job, having to compete with every other poor individual on her side of town. There was no menial work left to find, at least none that would hire her without any schooling or a half-decent resume. She was all over the place like a game of hop-scotch. Her heart still pounding from barely-withheld frustration, Elphaba poured the warm soup into a cup. It wasn’t anything special; just a can of chicken broth and some slightly stale saltines. But it would have to be enough, seeing as everything else had gone bad. 

Clutching the sad little meal like her life depended on it, Elphaba checked on the kids before going to see Galinda again. They’d both passed out on the floor from a sugar high, snoring contently amongst a mess of pillows and blankets, a movie still playing. Only able to quirk her lip a little at the sight, Elphaba pushed into the guest bedroom and closed the door behind her with a foot. The kids didn’t need to hear this. 

She was surprised to find Galinda sitting up already. 

Her pale hands worried at the threads of the sheets, dewy brown eyes dazed and seemingly elsewhere for the time being. Her honey-gold locks had gone frizzy, while the dark circles around her eyes remained. Sleeping for a month probably wouldn’t put a dent in them at this point. 

“What are you doing?” Elphaba asked, setting down her offering as Galinda startled a little and looked up at her. 

“Oh! Elphie. I…I didn’t hear you come in.” 

“You’re supposed to be resting,” 

“I’m in bed, aren’t I?” 

“In bed, but not sleeping.” 

“I slept a little,” Galinda complained, once again smoothing the wrinkles in the sheets. She looked a bit better, but not much. “How are the kids?” 

“Asleep. Sugar high plus cold weather will do that.” 

“Hmm.” Galinda tilted her head in understanding, but squinted at Elphaba as she pulled over a cushioned stool to sit on. “What’s wrong?” 

“Wrong?” Elphaba forced a chuckle. “Why are you asking me?” 

Galinda leaned forward. Her palm hesitated before landing on Elphaba’s eczema-riddled cheek, catching a tear that had escaped under the rim of her glasses. “You’re crying.” 

“Damn it.” Elphaba ducked her head quickly, using the hem of her shirt to wipe her eyes which had betrayed her. “It’s nothing.” 

“If you get to be a pest towards me, I get to be the same to you, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda complained, eyebrows scrunching into a familiar wrinkle. “What happened?” 

“I uh…I just lost my job.” 

“What?” Galinda seemed genuinely upset, her face softening. “How?” 

“My boss sold the restaurant. It’s being demolished on Monday by Diggs.” 

“Oz,” Galinda grumbled, shaking her head. “That sounds about right. But the west side? Really?” 

“His people are all over my neighborhood,” Elphaba admitted. “They’ve been buying up empty lots and abandoned properties for a while.” 

“That’s alarming,” Galinda mused blandly, reaching for her pocket, only to find nothing there. “My phone?”

“You don’t need it,” Elphaba chuffed, nervously pursing her lips as she bounced a knee. “I actually need to ask you something. It’s kinda important, so I need your full attention.” 

“Oh? What could be more important than losing your job?” 

Elphaba didn’t reply with words, instead removing the empty medicine bottle and placing it on the nightstand between them. It spoke for itself. Galinda froze, her neck flexing as she swallowed hard. Her eyes widened as she gripped the sheets, crinkling the satin in her fingertips.

“How long?” Galinda glanced at her, looking ready to cry. Elphaba refused to fold. She tilted her head at the bottle. “You’re not just sick. You’re going through withdrawal, aren’t you?” 

“I never meant for it to go this far,” Galinda croaked, her voice a mere rasp. “It was an accident.” 

“You don’t just accidentally take pills, Galinda,” Elphaba complained. “Why would you do this?” 

“It was too much, Elphie, I couldn’t take it. E—everything was happening all at once, I couldn’t keep up. And it hurt, and I…I just needed it to slow down.” The blonde woman whimpered, holding her temples. “I didn’t think they’d work. But…it stopped the nightmares from happening. It helped me focus. I didn’t need to sleep as much. I could get more done and be with Peaches as she began her recovery. They helped, and I needed them. And I didn’t…the whole bottle was gone in a matter of weeks.” 

“Galinda, this is dangerous.” 

“I know that.” 

“Yet you still did it,” Elphaba hissed, glowering at the bottle and wishing it would combust. “You have a daughter to worry about; she’s only six. What do you think will happen to her if you end up an addict. Hmm?” 

“I’m not.” 

“You’re going through withdrawal. You’ve been taking these long enough to depend on them. That’s what an addict is.” 

“What does it matter to you, Elphie!” Galinda snapped suddenly. “Why do you care so much!” 

“Because I know what happens at the end of the road!” Elphaba didn’t mean to get angry, but she couldn’t help it. She stood, clenching her fists as they carved half-moons into her palms. “I know, Galinda. I know too well what happens when time runs out.” 

“…what do you mean?” Galinda was quiet again; just a tired little whisper as Elphaba ran a hand across her eyes. 

“My sister, Nessarose. She OD’d not long before I gave birth to Liir.” Elphaba pursed her lips hard enough to bleed. She still remembered that day; the horrible call from her father’s secretary about the news. “Her life was short and unpleasant. She was born without the use of her legs and chronic pain. The man she fell in love with lied to her and left to be with someone else and our relationship was…strained…at best. Her life was cut short because she chose to drown out the hurt with pills instead of finding another way.” Glancing at Galinda, who was averting her eyes in shame, Elphaba heaved a deep, tired breath. “If I had cared more about her, maybe she’d still be here. But she’s not. And I can’t—I won’t—let that happen to you too. Because I’m here, and I give a damn about you for whatever reason that is. Peaches already lost her dad, Galinda. She can’t lose her mom, too.” 

Sitting at the edge of the bed with a huff, Elphaba grabbed onto a pale, shivering hand. She wrapped it up in her ashy fingertips, giving the palm a squeeze. “I told you. I’m invested now.” 

“You shouldn’t be,” Galinda replied. “It’s not safe.” 

“I tried that, yet we ended up running into each other again anyway,” Elphaba chuckled, running her thumb over Galinda’s knuckles and lifting the hand to kiss the skin. “Gotta be fate or whatever, right, Miss Popular?” 

“Hmm. Perhaps.” Galinda’s lips quirked, but she still refused to meet Elphaba’s gaze. “I can’t do this Elphaba. I just…it’s too much.” 

“That’s what I’m here for,” Elphaba reassured. “You won’t take the pills anymore, right?” 

“No. I don’t even know where to get more.” 

Elphaba tilted her head. “What do you mean? How’d you get them in the first place?” 

“They were given to me.” 

“By who?” 

“By…Oz.” 

“Oz,” Elphaba repeated. “That same skeezeball who I met in the hospital and who just lost me my job? That Oz?” 

“He came to the hospital the day of the accident. He um…gave his condolences and passed me that bottle. Said it might help. I didn’t take them for a while after, but I eventually got so desperate for something to work.” 

“Oz said he was a friend of your husband’s,” Elphaba mused, more to herself than to Galinda. “Who exactly is he?” 

“He used to be a friend. Westin’s best friend, actually. They went to school together.” 

“Oh. Doesn’t seem very friendly now.” 

“It’s a bit more complicated than that,” Galinda admitted, accepting the mug of soup Elphaba wordlessly passed into her hands. “I was never supposed to be part of the UCLAP project in the first place. It was Westin and Oscar who founded it. It started life as COZAP, the Chuffery-Oz Acquisition Project.” 

“He was your husband’s business partner?” Elphaba’s brows popped into her hairline. That did make things more complicated. “So what happened?” 

“It started with a difference of opinion. The more successful COZAP became, the more Oz was interested in acquiring wealth, rather than doing good. Westin didn’t agree. He was always a humanitarian. Things didn’t collapse completely until…well…me.” 

“You?” Elphaba frowned. “What do you mean?” 

“I didn’t know at the time, but I guess Oz was jealous that West and I were dating? He’s six years older than me, so I only ever considered him an acquaintance. I was only sixteen when my parents and Westin’s parents introduced us. But Oz um…he cornered me at an event not long before I was meant to get married? And West was furious. The most furious I’ve ever seen.” 

“I bet,” Elphaba mumbled, rubbing a hand across her jawbone. She remembered how Oz had tilted Galinda’s cheek in the hospital; how his eyes and fingers lingered. A disgusted shiver ran up her spine. “What a creep.” 

“I ended up taking Oz’s place in the trust and we changed it’s name to UCLAP. But I was never really in charge of much besides balancing our accounts and looking good for cameras. It was all Westin’s dream; I just got to be part of it.” 

“And now it’s all yours?” 

“Every last bit.”

“Hmm.” 

“You don’t have a job now,” Galinda noted softly, catching Elphaba’s ear. She thought her blonde companion had forgotten about her own troubles, but she hadn’t. 

“No. I had to fight tooth and nail for that one. I can barely keep up with the rent as is, even if it is controlled.” Elphaba massaged the place under her glasses. “I don’t know what I’m going to do about that.” 

“Come work for me.” 

Elphaba raised her head in confusion. Had she misheard? “What did you say?” 

“I…I can’t do this alone, Elphaba. I’ll sooner kill myself trying. And I know you said you’re here to help, but you shouldn’t do it for free. Especially since we’re still practically strangers.” Galinda ran her finger along the rim of the mug. “Come work for me.” 

“What would that entail, exactly?” 

“Whatever you’d like. You could help around the house, or if you have a knack for numbers I can get you in to look over the books. You could be a secretary, a nanny, or just…an extra hand. I’ll pay you twice what you were making.” 

“My car isn’t very reliable,” Elphaba mumbled, thinking of her poor junker trying to make it to the East Side and back on the regular.  

“I have enough rooms, and Peaches loves you. You could stay here; Liir could too. I’m sure she wouldn’t mind having a friend around. Only if you wanted to get out of the west side, of course.” Galinda tapped her nails on the edge of her mug. “I could just expense out a new car for you…” 

“You’re not buying me a car, Galinda,” Elphaba scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Don’t even think about it.” 

“It would be work related, I can write it off later,” the blonde replied flippantly. “I should really sell that condo in the city, too. It’s not very accessible for Peaches. 

“It’s a generous offer. Truly. But I just…I dunno.” 

“Well it’s on the table. Whatever you’d like,” Galinda heaved, slumping as she shakily returned the mug to the side table. She barely ate any of it. 

“Are you feeling ok?” 

“Just a bit tired,” Galinda replied, slowly falling back into the pillows. “Thank you for staying, Miss Elphaba.” 

“No worries.” Reaching to the side table, Elphaba grabbed the pill bottle to get rid of it, not wanting Peaches or Liir to see such a thing. “Get some sleep.” 

“You’ll think about it, won’t you?” 

“Yeah. I’ll think about it.” 

“I’d like it if I got to see you more,” Galinda muttered, her eyes already beginning to flutter shut. She was gone in a second, dead to the world as her own exhaustion took hold. Elphaba carefully drew the blankets up over her, tucking her blonde hair behind one ear. She then left, leaving the door open but pausing to lean against the wall. Galinda’s proposal rang in her brain. 

It truly was a generous offer; one that she almost couldn’t refuse. A pay increase, flexible responsibilities, and a better neighborhood for Liir to grow up? There was really no downside. Well, except for one big, glaring one. Galinda would be her new employer…

And someone was still trying to kill her.

Chapter Text

Elphaba didn’t mean to fall asleep. She’d closed her eyes for a second, just to blink, and ended up taking a two hour nap. It was the familiar tugging if a child’s hand on her sleeve that woke her up. Jerking to alertness with a snort, she groggily pushed her askew pair of eyeglasses up onto her nose, squinting down at her messy-haired son. 

”H-ey. Hey, bud,” she greeted. “What’s up?” 

“Nuf-in,” Liir replied, practically crawling up her leg and onto the couch. Elphaba grunted in pain as he flopped across her lap, elbowing her in the stomach with his cast in the process. He’d be getting it off in a week or so, but it still wasn’t soon enough for her taste. The lime-green plaster was absolutely disgusting, and Elphaba wanted to never see it again. Mindlessly twirling her nails in her son's dark locks, the evening sun came in through the windows in golden blades. It was just about dinnertime according to the light. 

“Can we get pizza?” 

Right on cue. If there was one thing Liir loved more than dinosaurs, it was food. He could wolf down just about anything, even vegetables. Elphaba was grateful she didn’t give birth to a picky eater, though how much food her son could actually put down was pretty miraculous. 

“I’ll think about it,” Elphaba chuckled, shifting to sit up properly as she ran a hand across her braids. “Where’s Peaches?” 

“She got sad and wanted to be with her mom,” Liir replied simply, kicking his feet. 

“Hmm. Do you know why she’s sad?” 

“She misses her dad. When is he coming back?” 

Elphaba sighed heavily, pursing her lips as she rolled over the question in her brain. She knew it would probably come up at some point, seeing as Liir was naturally inquisitive. But he hadn’t really experienced death yet. At least not in the way Galinda and Peaches had. “Sit up for a moment, bub. I need to talk to you.” 

Liir did so, resting on Elphaba’s bent knees so he was facing her. She wiped some old spaghetti sauce from his cheek with a thumb, placing both hands on his shoulders. “Miss Galinda’s husband—Peaches dad?—he died, Liir.”

“Died?” 

“Mmhm.” 

“So…he’s not coming back?” 

“No, bud.”

“Does that mean Peaches is going to be sad all the time?” 

“She might feel better someday. But she’ll be sad for a while,” Elphaba replied, mindlessly straightening her son’s shirt and brushing dirt from his exposed knees. “Miss Galinda is sad too. You know how I work really hard to give us a place to live? Miss Galinda does the same for Peaches. But that’s difficult when you’re sad.” 

“Maybe we should get pizza and ice cream,” Liir suggested. “That’s what makes me feel better.” 

“Maybe, hon,” Elphaba laughed, rolling her eyes at Liir’s one track mind. She gave her son a squeeze. “Liir, how would you feel about staying here with Miss Galinda and Peaches for a while?” 

“Like…forever?” 

“Well, maybe not forever. But for longer than just a night or two.” Elphaba gave the boy her most encouraging smile, pushing down her own uncertainties regarding the sudden and somewhat nontraditional work offer from Galinda. “You’d have this nice big house to run around in, and a yard, and a friend who you can play with whenever you want…”

“Will I change schools?” Liir asked honestly. “Cause I don’t like school. The other boys are mean to me.” 

Elphaba furrowed her brows. She hadn’t even thought about school. Liir struggled at West Oz Elementary despite trying his best. He was a bit of an odd duck out and tended to lose his temper on the regular (a trait they unfortunately shared). It got him into trouble more times than she could count, but there wasn’t much she could do besides keep him home on a few days suspension until he was allowed back. Would he have the same problems at a school on the East Side? They were certainly nicer and maybe had better accommodations for Liir’s learning difficulties. Still, that seemed like an awful lot of work for a possibly temporary living situation. “I don’t know about that yet, but maybe.” 

“I’d like to move schools,” Liir nodded firmly. “Would I get my own room?” 

“Mhm. I’m sure if you’re really nice to Miss Galinda, she might even let you paint it whatever color you’d like.” 

“And I’d get to swim!” 

“Within reason,” Elphaba scoffed, pulling at the dino swim-pants her son still wore. “You’d still get to be with your dad every other weekend, and I’d be working with Miss Galinda instead of at the restaurant. What do you think about that?”

“Do you think I could get more toys if we stayed here?” 

“If you behave and are very respectful of Miss Galinda and Peaches space. Maybe I could even save enough money to get you one of those cars you’ve always wanted for your birthday.” 

Liir’s eyes grew huge at the prospect, glimmering with barely withheld excitement. Elphaba wasn’t sure if she could keep such a promise, seeing as anything that fancy would cost and arm and a leg. But maybe with an increased wage and a bit of time, she could make his kid-dream come true. Though…the idea of Liir taking a motorized toy car down an incline worried her a little. 

Shaking her head of the thought, Liir scrambled down from her lap, jumping on his feet. 

“Mom, can we please get pizza? Please, please, please?” 

“If you sit here and watch something for a moment, I’ll go ask Miss Galinda.” 

“Yes!” Fist-pumping the air, Liir immediately plopped down as Elphaba turned on the TV for him, ruffling his hair before standing up with a stretch. Every bone popped from the weird angle she’d fallen asleep in, another yawn escaping her as she walked to the guest bedroom. The door was wide open, perhaps from Peaches making her way inside. But, upon checking the bed where Galinda was meant to be resting, the blonde was nowhere to be found. Peaches was there, sleeping soundly in the divot her mother once occupied. But the blonde woman was missing. 

“Damn it, Galinda,” Elphaba chided under her breath, turning as there was muffled talking through the wall. Changing direction and heading down the hall towards Peaches room, she stopped in front of the office. The door was slightly ajar, allowing Galinda’s voice to reach her ear. 

“…I don’t care…no. No! I don’t want your flimsy excuses.” 

Pushing the room open with her hand, Galinda was out of bed again. She was pacing the length of the office in her bare feet, still disheveled from sleep as she held a hand to her forehead and a phone to her ear. “Pfannee, I was MIA for a day and suddenly get word that Oz is making moves in the West Side? What the hell is that all about?” 

Galinda looked irritated as she walked in circles, treading deep lines into the pure white carpet. 

“No. No! Your team exists to keep this from happening, which means you’ll all be working overtime until it’s resolved. Shenshen can kiss that PTO goodbye if this isn’t done and moving ASAP. Start in the heavily populated areas and work outwards; I want boots on the ground tomorrow morning convincing residents and businesses not to sell out. Some of the most vulnerable populations are on that side of the city; if Oz starts knocking down their affordable infrastructure, thousands will be displaced with nowhere to go.” Galinda raked a pale hand through her hair, pushing the awry strands out of her face, only to have them fall right back into her eyes. 

Elphaba didn’t even notice how long her hair was. 

She’d done her time working in a salon; mainly to bulk up her wage when things got tight. So she knew the difference between healthy and not healthy hair. Galinda’s was long and beautiful at a distance, but up close, it was badly damaged and splitting at the ends from neglect. 

“I want an urban property attained and a support shelter going up by Friday. Cut budget from projects that have already stabilized to fund it. I am disgusted that an entire corner of the city has been ignored. I’m expecting results and a full report by the end of the month. Do I make myself clear?” Galinda sniffed her displeasure, pivoting on a heel to start her pacing anew. She happened to look up this time around, freezing at meeting Elphaba’s unhappy stare like a deer in headlights. “Uh, Pfannee? I gotta go, my next meeting just got here. Remember. Tomorrow morning. Don’t screw this up.” 

Galinda ended the call, clenching the phone in her pale hand as she gave Elphaba the most insincere smile ever. “Elphie! What’s up?”  

“What are you doing?” 

Galinda rolled her lips. She didn’t even have the decency to look guilty. “Just a quick phone call.” 

“You’re supposed to be in bed.” 

“I was.” 

“Was? Why aren’t you still?” Elphaba pushed from the doorway, taking a step forward and holding out her hand. “Give it here.” 

“What?” Galinda scowled, shifting to hide the phone behind her back. “No.” 

“Galinda, you need to rest. That’s not what…well…whatever this is.” Motioning to her pacing, Elphaba tilted her fingers again. Galinda took a wide step back, glancing over her shoulder as though looking for a way to dart. “Give it to me.” 

“But what if I need it?” 

“You won’t. You were constantly working, even in the hospital. When was the last time you actually had a break?” 

“I…um…haven’t? I don’t need one; there’s too much going on. I need to be reachable or things could catch on fire.” With her sudden rise in pitch, Galinda’s body shuddered as she gave a horrible cough, feebly gripping for the wall to support herself. 

“Case and point,” Elphaba stated with an eye roll and a withering frown. “Give me the phone.” 

“No.” 

“Galinda.” Crossing the space between them, Elphaba boxed the woman in with an arm, making sure she couldn’t duck to avoid her and possibly go careening to the floor. “Give it.” 

“Elphie,” Galinda whimpered her name, her brows furrowing as she averted her eyes. “I can’t stand another minute in that bed, I feel so useless.” 

“Then at least let me cut your hair?” 

“My hair?” Galinda tilted her head in confusion, her brown eyes pooling up as she finally met Elphaba’s face. “What’s wrong with it?” 

“You really need a haircut. If you won’t sleep anymore, fine. But at least let me get this mess out of your eyes?” Pushing the errant strands back to prove her point, Galinda whined and huffed, but nodded stubbornly. 

“Oh…fine, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Perfect. I’ll be taking this…” leaning down to snatch the phone from Galinda’s hand, she yelped and practically jumped for it. 

“W—wait!” 

“Galinda, you need to rest and get better. You pay people to run the business, so let them run it for a little while.” 

“You know I don’t trust those idiots to change a lightbulb,” Galinda scoffed unhappily, giving up trying to grab the device as Elphaba once again played a game of keep-away with her. “Will you at least answer any calls and let me know if there’s an emergency?” 

“Deal. Do you have a pair of scissors?” 

Galinda did. In fact, she had an entire hair-kit in the master bathroom. Grateful that Liir was occupied and Peaches was sleeping, Elphaba stole a stool from the kitchen, patting it for her companion to sit. Galinda looked terribly washed out in the white lights of the vanity mirror, slumping over as she perched herself on the cushion. Elphaba tied up her braids to keep them out of her face, gently pulling her fingers through Galinda’s hair. 

Like she noticed a night or two earlier, the strands were weak and snapped with the lightest of touches. Tsking unhappily between her teeth, Elphaba began to brush out the mess, focusing intently on her task. 

“…have you thought about my offer at all?” Galinda asked, playing with her ratty cuticles. “I know it’s only been a few hours, pardon if I’m being too forward about it.” 

“It’s the only thing I’ve been thinking about,” Elphaba admitted, grabbing the hair scissors to begin snipping away bunches of split ends. “It’s a big decision.”  

“I could really use some help,” Galinda said quietly. “I can’t trust anyone these days.” 

“Why me?” 

“I…don’t know.” Galinda heaved a deep and tired sigh. “Intuition, I suppose? Maybe I’m just being paranoid, but even before I couldn’t really trust people. Not in the way I would’ve liked.” 

“Because of money?” 

“Hmm. Money makes people do awful things, you know. Westin was never like that, though. No matter how successful the trust became, he never let it get to his head. He only ever wanted to help people.” Galinda sniffled, dragging a flat palm across her cheek to wipe away some tears. “But I can see now how so many people in his own company were ready to stab him in the back. Corruption, incompetency, greed…it’s all there, hiding beneath the surface. If I had signed the trust over to the Board of Directors like I was told to do…it would’ve completely collapsed.” 

“You did a brave thing, not letting them walk all over you. But is it really worth it?” Elphaba traced Galinda’s hairline, feeling the old wound from the accident at the hospital. “You’re set for life. You can sell the trust; hope something better comes out of it. You can raise Peaches comfortably without running yourself into the ground.” 

“Do you think I should sell it?” 

“Hmm. No. You’re right; a lot of people depend on the trust to not be homeless. I’m one of them. But Galinda…” Elphaba flexed her jaw at the pile of hair on the ground at her feet. “I think there are good people out there. And if you find the right one, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to let someone else take this burden off your shoulders. That’s all.” 

“I wish it were so easy,” Galinda agreed blandly. “Don’t go too short, ok?” 

“I won’t,” Elphaba agreed, making adjustments here and there to keep things even down the back. “Liir asked if we could order pizza. And possibly ice cream, because apparently that cures everything.” 

“Peaches would probably agree with him,” Galinda chuckled. “There’s a platinum card in my purse. Order whatever you want.” 

“I’ll pay for half.” 

“No, you will not.” Galinda huffed. “You’re my guests. Let me do this for you.” 

“Fine, fine. But I’ll cover the tip.” 

“You’re such a pest, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda scowled, still picking at her nails, pulling the skin apart till it bled. 

“What do you want?” 

“Hmm. Just cheese for Peaches; she’s a picky eater. And I’m not very hungry.” 

“You should eat,” Elphaba insisted. “You only had a bit of egg and some soup today.” 

“I don’t know if I’d be able to keep it down,” Galinda admitted, shaking her head. “I’m terribly queasy.” 

“Withdrawal will do that, but you’re weak enough. You have to eat something. It’s not a suggestion.” 

“Whatever you’re having is fine.” 

“At least you’re not picky,” Elphaba huffed, finishing up her work. “There. You should feel a bit lighter now.” 

“Thank you, Miss Elphaba.” 

Nodding her acceptance, Elphaba was just cleaning up her mess when the doorbell rang. The way Galinda sat up was almost robotic. Her shoulders pulled back and her eyes widened, a terrified look flickering across her brows.

“Are you expecting someone?” Elphaba asked, hurrying to the doorway and poking her head around the corner. “Liir! Don’t answer the door!” 

“…ok mom!” 

Sighing at the boys obedience, Elphaba grabbed Galinda’s arm to snap her out of her sudden panic. 

“Go to the guest room. I’ll handle it.” 

Galinda said nothing, just nodded her head. She scampered out of the bathroom with a stumble, hurrying to the right room and vanishing inside. The doorbell chimed again, this time followed by a knock. Ordering Liir to stay put, Elphaba flexed her hands as she approached the door. Feeling the adrenaline of fight or flight suddenly coursing through her, she opened it a crack to look out. 

The well dressed man with a snake-like smile wasn’t who she wanted to see. 

“Mr. Diggs?” Elphaba barely contained her distaste at his name. Opening the door a little wider, his secretary was also present. “Miss Morrible? What do you want?” 

“Ah! Miss…West, was it?” The man Galinda referred to only as ‘Oz’ glanced at his companion, who’s face immediately turned into a scowl. “What a pleasure to see you again.” 

“Uh-huh. Can I help you?” 

“We just happened to be in the area and saw that Mrs. Upland was back from the hospital. We hoped to visit, just to see how she’s doing.”

“Sorry, that’s not possible. Mrs. Upland is in a meeting.” 

“At nearly sundown?” Morrible scoffed indignantly. “Don’t take us for fools, girl.” 

“Now, now, Magdeline, let’s all just calm down,” Oz ordered, waving his hand. “Seeing as you’re just the nanny, Miss West, I’d like to speak with Mrs. Upland herself. If you don’t mind.” 

“I do mind,” Elphaba ground out, watching Oz’s foot as it inched towards the doorway. He wouldn’t try to force his way in, would he? “I’ve been promoted to Mrs. Uplands personal secretary. I handle her affairs when she’s indisposed and was told explicitly that you aren’t welcome here.” 

“I highly doubt that,” Oz mumbled unhappily, his hands finding the edges of his coat to straighten it. “Westin was a dear friend of mine, you see? And Galinda and I have a bit of a past.” 

“You’re trespassing, sir,” Elphaba warned. “Don’t think I won’t call the police on you.” 

“Touchy,” Oz laughed. “Tell me, Miss West. I gave you a look up not too long ago and couldn’t seem to find you anywhere. How exactly do you know Mrs. Upland, hm?” 

“None of your business,” Elphaba replied. “You better get lost. Now.” 

“How rude,” Morrible scoffed, drowning in her oversized purple coat as Oz pursed his lips unhappily. 

“Very well. We’ll be back another time. But pass along a message for me? My offer still stands. Oh! I also have Mrs. Upland’s next prescription, should she need it.” 

“She won’t need it,” Elphaba hissed, fighting back her temper. She’d probably end up in jail for aggravated assault if she didn’t close the door right this second. “Good day, Mr. Diggs.” 

Slamming it in his face, Oz quickly retracted his shoe to keep from getting his toes broken. Throwing the lock and staying by the window to make sure the two actually left the property, Elphaba jumped as there was a creak of floorboards. 

“Are they gone?” Galinda asked, having crept from the guest room. Peaches tottered after her with a yawn, drowsily hanging from her crutches. 

“What a creep.” Scowling in the direction Oz had gone, Elphaba took Galinda’s arm, supporting her as she trembled in fear. The blonde looked a little better with her new haircut, but the bruises under her eyes were dangerously dark. “Sit down with the kids, I’ll order some dinner. Ok?” 

“Ok.” 

“Oz said something about an offer,” Elphaba wondered out loud as Galinda got comfortable on the sofa, accepting Peaches into her arms and Liir, who immediately grabbed onto her leg with a giggle. “What offer? To sell the trust?” 

“Not exactly,” Galinda whispered, running her hands through Peaches hair. “He didn’t ask to just buy the trust.” 

“Oh?” Elphaba pulled Galinda’s platinum card from her wallet, admiring how it’s silver metallic sheen sparked. “So what is he talking about?” 

Galinda physically winced, twirling her wedding ring on a finger. “Oscar asked me to marry him.” 

Chapter Text

Elphaba had never slept so well in her life. 

As a girl, her father would always keep the guest bedrooms in their house as cold and unwelcoming as possible to discourage people from overstaying their welcome. They hardly ever had people over, and when they did, it wasn’t for very long. But Elphaba supposed Galinda wasn’t the type of person to stick her nose up at unexpected houseguests. 

The room was well furnished and luxurious, even better than her room back in the apartment. The mattress was plush and didn’t sag in the middle. There was no broken spring poking her in the back every time she rolled over. The blankets were fluffed and quilted, keeping her warm all night without having to readjust, while the pillows were the feathered kind and soft to the touch. Elphaba had fallen right into bed and slept the entire night. Something she hadn’t accomplished since having Liir six years ago. 

Still, she had to wake up at some point. Or rather, someone would wake her, whether she was ready to be awake yet or not. It was usually her rambunctious, dark-haired son who did the deed, taking a running start before WWE landing on her chest. This morning was a shift in the routine, apparently. Elphaba heard the bedroom door creak open, sighing slightly as her eyes slowly peeled apart. Blind without her glasses on, she groped for them on the bed table. Someone shuffled in from the hall, quiet, yet still a little clumsily. 

Rolling onto her side and pushing the frames onto her face with a yawn, the bright blue stare of a little girl goggled expectantly up at her. 

“Peaches?” Remembering the girl couldn’t actually hear her, Elphaba arched her brow in question, giving a little wave of greeting. Peaches didn’t smile or really respond much; in fact, her eyes were still a bit watery and red-tinged with tears. But she pulled something from behind her back anyway, awkwardly holding it out while trying not to fall forward on her crutches. Confused, Elphaba accepted the token, examining it with a groggy eye rub. 

Peaches had just handed her a box of pancake mix. Oh. 

“You…want pancakes?” Elphaba turned the box around, tapping the picture on the front. Peaches nodded vigorously, sniffling as she used an already wet hand to wipe at her face. Sitting up with another yawn and a long morning stretch, Peaches waited impatiently for her, lingering by the doorway before darting through it. Ruffling her braids and following the little blonde into the main room, the scent of fresh coffee made a needy hum escape her. 

Coffee sounded amazing right now. 

Trailing the girl into the kitchen, Elphaba froze in surprise at reaching the doorway, nearly falling over in the process. Galinda was already up, working on her laptop at the kitchen island. Why that surprised her, Elphaba wasn’t sure. This was Galinda’s house, after all. And it stood to reason that if her child was awake, so was she. The woman wasn’t dressed yet either, Elphaba noted, her hair still a mess and pulled into a messy plait. Like Peaches, she looked to have been crying already this morning, her cheeks pink and swollen and her eyes red ringed. Elphaba supposed it was foolish of her, assuming Galinda would use a Sunday to actually sleep in. It seemed the only one sleeping in today was Liir, who was nowhere to be found. 

Not wanting to startle her companion, who was deeply focused on whatever she was doing, Elphaba gently knocked on the doorframe. Galinda still jumped, but it was very brief compared to the day before in the car. 

“Oh, Elphie!” Galinda quickly dried her eyes with a palm. “I didn’t hear you come in.” 

“Morning,” Elphaba greeted coolly, still holding the box of pancake mix in one hand. Galinda noticed it at once and scowled, turning to her daughter. They signed back and forth for a moment, seemingly in an argument. It ended with Galinda brandishing an unhappy finger back down the hall. Peaches stomped her crutches with a clatter, the tears back in full force as she galloped away, the door to her room being angrily slammed behind her, 

Galinda seemed to hesitate after the display but slumped, rubbing her temple with a hand as she leaned on a bent elbow. She looked utterly spent, the dark rings under her eyes just as present and bruised as the night before. 

“I’m so sorry, Elphie,” the woman apologized. “I told Peaches not to wake you up.” 

“Is everything ok?” 

“Not particularly,” Galinda admitted truthfully, massaging her head in small circular motions. “It’s been a rough morning for the both of us.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“It’s not your fault. Sundays were…they were daddy-daughter days, I guess.” Galinda forced a smile, though it twitched painfully on her face. “Westin would wake up early and make pancakes, and he and Peaches would spend some time together. I didn’t want to risk burning the house down. I told her not to bother you, but she’s been a pest all morning long.” 

“What time did you wake up?” Elphaba glanced at the clock; it wasn’t even eight yet. 

“Well, Peaches was up at…” Galinda checked the time too. “Five-ish? So a few hours now.” 

“Did you sleep at all?” 

“Not a wink.” Galinda ran a palm over her scalp, seemingly unable to sit still. She was twitching all over. Her hands trembled, her knee bounced rapidly on the bar of the stool, and her eyes were dialated into big black disks. She was sweating a little, still holding her head in one hand as she closed her eyes. The withdrawal was hitting her hard. 

Rounding the island to set the pancake mix on the counter by the stove, Elphaba caught a brief glimpse of Galinda’s computer screen. East Side End of Life Packages and Celebrations. Rough morning, indeed. 

“If you want to go back to your room, I can handle Peaches for a bit,” Elphaba offered, opening a few cupboards to grab a coffee mug for herself. She was careful not to grab any that looked like Westin’s, so she grabbed a plain one instead. “You can catch a few hours.”

“It wouldn’t do much good, my brain feels like it’s on a rollercoaster,” Galinda complained, practically growling as she slammed her laptop shut. “I haven’t been able to do much of anything. This headache is killing me.” 

“Galinda.” Placing a hand on the woman’s shoulder, Elphaba gave it a knowing shake. “Go take a break. A cold shower might do you some good.” 

“You don’t have to make pancakes, Elphie,” Galinda told her honestly. “I’ll manage. Please have a cup of coffee and sit down.” 

“I’m up now; might as well be useful,” Elphaba shrugged, pouring herself a cup of coffee from the maker. “At least you didn’t burn the coffee.” 

“The one thing I’m able to make without it being a fire hazard,” Galinda chuffed, nodding as Elphaba refilled her empty mug before returning the now empty pot to the sink. “I hope you slept well?” 

“The best sleep I’ve had in a while,” Elphaba smiled, leaning against the counter and inhaling the scent of her cup. “Mattresses are expensive; mine at the apartment needs to go in the trash.” 

“That fold out needs to follow suit,” Galinda croaked, causing Elphaba to quirk her lip at the joke. “Will you be going back today?” 

“I um…I put some thought into your offer.” 

“Oh?” Galinda’s head fell to one side. Elphaba nodded with a thick, nervous swallow. After all, as generous as the offer was, she would be relying almost entirely on her companion’s generosity as well as being in the line of fire when it came to her personal life. But it was too good to pass up, especially seeing as she had no other options lined up for her or Liir. 

“I accept.” 

“You’re sure?” Galinda’s brows crinkled into her hairline. She seemed almost surprised, her nails rolling along the countertop. “I hope you’re not just…I didn’t mean to pressure you yesterday.” 

“No. I’ve put some real thought into it and it’s…well…almost too good to be true. If not for me, for Liir. I want him to grow up in a better place than the west side.” 

“I understand. Any preference on what job position you’d like?” 

“Not really? I don’t exactly have a resume, not a lot of education either.” 

“That doesn’t matter, really,” Galinda sighed, lifting up her laptop to remove something from underneath. It was a few leaves of paper covered in thick blocks of printed text. She pulled a pen from behind her ear, swinging it between her fingertips as she scribbled something down. “I can hire you for now in a ‘Personal Assistant/Secretary’ role? Flexible, but also necessary, as the job requirements will include a little bit of everything.” 

“Hmm. You had that ready to go, huh?” 

“I did tell you I didn’t sleep much,” Galinda noted blandly, shifting the papers around and sliding it towards her. “Your wage and yearly salary. It should be sufficient.” 

Taking a step forward to look at the numbers, Elphaba nearly spit out her coffee. “Holy shit, Galinda. That’s…that’s way too much.” 

“Nonsense. You understand this role will be…um…” Galinda waved a hand as she searched for the right words. “Non-hourly specific? Of course you’ll get at least one full day off per week plus a half-day on whichever days you choose. But the hours won’t be set. You need to be compensated for all your time.” 

“I don’t know what to say.” 

“You can step away at any time, this contract is negotiable. I just want you to be comfortable, seeing as there are times when I can be–” Galinda coughed and averted her eyes. “A lot.” 

“No kidding.” Elphaba accepted the pen, hesitating only a second before signing her name and dating it appropriately. She could only hope she wouldn’t regret this. 

“There are a few things I need to mention before we go any further,” Galinda said, accepting the papers back with a nervous shuffle. “I do have my standards when it comes to dress? Especially when it comes to affairs related to the trust. Do you own any business formal?” 

“I don’t own any business casual,” Elphaba frowned, rubbing the back of her neck. “I didn’t realize there was a dress code.” 

“Nothing too strict, but I need you looking professional when we’re out. As Westin liked to say, ‘you never know when you’ll meet your next big business prospect’.” 

“Ok. I’ll set some money aside…” 

“No need.” Galinda grabbed a sticky-note pad from the center of the island, taking back her pen as she began to ferociously scribble. “I can expense you a new wardrobe. We’ll go down tomorrow to have you measured and tailored. And while we’re down there, we can stop by the dealership to get you a more reliable vehicle…” 

“You’re not buying me a car,” Elphaba complained immediately, only to get waved off by Galinda’s fluttering hand. 

“I’m expensing you a car; I can write it off later. Besides, as my personal assistant, you may need to be Peaches’ driver every so often. And I won’t have her in a vehicle not up to current safety standards.” 

“Uh-huh.” 

“I’ll have to get you set up with a company phone and email, work ID, an office. The one next to mine, of course…” 

“Galinda.” Placing a hand on Galinda’s scribbling hand, brown eyes met green in confusion. “This can wait till tomorrow, can’t it?” 

“Why wait when I can handle it now?” 

“Because it’s Sunday and you need to rest.” 

“I rested yesterday…?”

“Not enough. And if I’m going to be doing this in an official capacity, you should know I’m a bit of a hard-ass? Meaning you’re going to get super sick of me.” Plucking the pen from Galinda’s hand, the blonde reached for it, only for Elphaba to push her right back down. “Relax. I’m not going anywhere.” 

“You…you mean you’re staying?” Galinda licked her lips. “You want to live here?” 

“The west side is no place for a boy to grow up,” Elphaba admitted, tilting her head as her braids slid across her shoulders. “That and I’m worried you might burn the place down if I leave.” 

“I might,” Galinda croaked, slumping as her brows furrowed. “You can make those rooms whatever you want. I can have a contractor in by Wednesday.” 

“Galinda, stop fussing over it.” 

“But…” 

“Go take a shower and get dressed. I’ll handle breakfast.” 

“Oh…fine, Miss Elphaba.” Galinda scowled unhappily, sliding off the barstool. She took her laptop and sticky notes with her, vanishing back into the guest bedroom which she’d claimed for herself. Tossing her head at the attitude, Elphaba worked around the kitchen to prepare breakfast. The smell must’ve enticed Peaches out of her room, as she clumsily clattered back into the kitchen. Helping the girl into her chair at the kitchen table (it was clearly her’s based on the bright yellow placemat and stickers all over the woodwork), Elphaba glanced up as there was a yawn and another pair of feet slapping against the floor. 

“Liir?” 

“…mhm…” the boy—as he did every morning—grabbed onto Elphaba’s leg, hugging it tight and shoving his face into the back of her knee. “Hi mom.” 

“Hey bud.” Ruffling his dark curls with a hand, Elphaba pattered up a hotcake for each child. Liir was able to get into the chair by himself, all tiredness chased away when a plate of buttered pancakes. “You’re awfully spoiled. Pizza and pancakes in a single weekend?” 

“It’s awesome.” Liir immediately dug in. Peaches seemed to hesitate for a moment, flipping the food over with her fingertips, examining it on both sides. Elphaba wasn’t sure what the blonde was looking for, but she seemed to not have found it, as she too immediately began to wolf down her meal. Rolling one up for herself and eating it that way, Galinda returned not long after the kids had finished up, having devoured the entire plate like ravaged piranha’s before running back to Peaches room to play. 

“I saved a pancake for you,” Elphaba noted, setting another platter down as Galinda smiled. She was still in the process of braiding her wet hair, having not bothered to dry it. She looked so different bare faced. Tired, sure. But Elphaba could see the beginnings of wrinkles forming, mostly across her forehead and her nose where she smiled. “Feel better?” 

“A bit.” Galinda accepted the chair Elphaba pulled out for her, dressed down for the day in an oversized pink sweatshirt with SHIZ embroidered across the front and a pair of white leggings. “Where are the kids?” 

“Fed and occupied,” Elphaba responded. “I think Liir will do better with a friend around. He needs someone to tire him out.” 

“Peaches can certainly do that for you,” Galinda laughed airly, beginning to cut up her breakfast into more manageable sized pieces. “She’s got enough energy sometimes to power a city. Westin was always a bit better at running her ragged than I was.” 

“Hmm. Can I ask you something, Galinda?” 

“Of course.” 

“Yesterday…you said Oz asked you to marry him?” Elphaba screwed up her face at the mere thought of such a thing. The guy gave her the shivers. “Why?” 

“I don’t really know,” Galinda shrugged honestly, pushing the food around her plate but not actually eating any of it. 

“You said he cornered you once.” 

“I…um…I’d rather not talk about it, if you don’t mind, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Sorry,” lifting her hands in apology, Elphaba slid into the chair across from Galinda. “Why do you still talk to that creep?” 

“I try to avoid him. But Oz was part of Westin’s life for so long. I really thought that maybe he came to the hospital after the accident to…to make up for what happened between them. Instead, he offered me a ring.” 

“While Westin was on…?” 

Galinda tilted her head. “The Doctors thought he may have had a chance then. He wasn’t even on DNR yet.” 

“And Oz just whipped out a proposal?” 

“He was always so selfish like that,” Galinda growled unhappily, her fist curling slowly around her fork. Had she the strength, Elphaba wondered if the metal would’ve bent from the force. “Oz always wanted what Westin had. The looks, the charm, the money…” 

“The girl?” 

“Mmhm. I think he and that Morrible woman are together in some capacity? But I’m not very sure.” 

“Humph. Low bar,” Elphaba snorted, causing Galinda to chuckle a bit as she picked at her breakfast. “You didn’t actually consider his offer, did you?” 

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Galinda scoffed, looking almost offended. “Oz is as skeevy as they come. I was so hurt and alone after the accident; so vulnerable. I guess I was just looking for someone to…believe in. And Oz just happened to be there.” 

“Just happened to be there,” Elphaba repeated slowly, her mind ticking. Opening her mouth to share her suspicions with Galinda about the things that had been happening to her, she was interpreted by the ringing of her phone. Removing it from her pocket, she lifted a brow at the Caller ID. 

“Fiyero?” 

“Elphaba! Thank Oz, where the hell are you?” 

“I’m with Galinda right now…” 

“Is Liir with you?” 

“Of course.” Sensing the urgency in her ex’s voice, Elphaba stood and rapidly removed herself from the kitchen. “What’s going on?” 

“I thought you were…fuck, Elphaba. I thought you were dead!” 

“What?” Furrowing her brows, Elphaba caught Galinda’s concerned brow through the kitchen doorway. “What are you talking about, Fiyero?” 

“Your apartment building! It’s on fire!”

Chapter Text

Elphaba wasn’t sure how to feel. 

Her stomach was a tangled ball of emotions, conflicting feelings knotted up inside with nowhere to go. Her apartment was still burning, completely consumed by red and gold flames. The life she’d worked so hard to build for Liir was reduced to a smoldering pile of nothing. What was left of her childhood memories, her mothers wedding ring, videotapes of her son as a baby…everything was just…gone, slipping between her fingers like smoke.  

A decently large crowd had gathered to watch the destruction. Some of the onlookers were neighbors; people like her who’d just lost everything and didn’t know what to do with themselves. Others were news crews, journalists, or civilians who simply had nothing better to occupy their Sunday afternoon with. Thankfully, no one had died in the blaze. But every person—every family—in the building was now displaced; and not a single one of them was making enough money for home insurance to replace their belongings, savings, or other important possessions. 

“…Elph…Elphaba!” 

Elphaba, distracted by the sight of her very existence going up in flames, gasped as a body rammed into her from within the crowd. She knew the grip immediately, turning to hug her ex-husband. 

“Fiyero!” 

“You scared the shit out of me,” the man accused, holding her tight as she dug her claws into his shirt. The scent of him was familiar, as was his grip around her. “I thought the worst when I got here and I didn’t see you. Is Liir ok?” 

“Y—yeah. Yeah, Liir’s fine. He’ll be talking about the fire trucks for the rest of time.” 

“Ok.” Fiyero exhaled sharply, pushing Elphaba away to grip the side of her face with a hand. His brows furrowed with concern, fingers finding their way into her braids. “Are you ok?” 

“…it’s all gone, Yero. All of it.” 

“I know.” 

“I really, really hated that apartment,” Elphaba garbled out a laugh, pressing her nostrils together to keep back the tears as her chest seized. No. She didn’t need to cry over this; they were just physical things. And physical things, though sentimental, could be replaced in time. “They’re just things. We can replace them.” 

“I’m just glad you and Liir weren’t home,” Fiyero said, his chest rumbling as he let out another relieved sigh. “This Galinda woman…she’s the one who you brought home the other night, right? The one from the hospital?” 

“Yeah. We’re um…friends now…I guess.” Elphaba ran a finger under her eye to push back the tears, tilting her head across the parking lot. The blonde in question had agreed to stay by the car with the kids. Currently, Liir and Peaches were both sitting on the hood of the sedan for a better view of the fire trucks, while Galinda herself was on a call. Or rather, she was having a yelling match with whoever was on the other end of the line. Why no one could ever seem to have a civil conversion with the woman, Elphaba had no idea. Still, she didn’t work in big business, so maybe yelling at each other was the preferred method of communication. 

“Oh. Well that’s good, I suppose.” 

“Better than ‘good’. Galinda actually offered me a job; we’ll be moving to the east side.” 

“Wait. You’re going to live with her? In the same house?” Fiyero recoiled a little, seeming completely gobsmacked. 

“Yeah. She made a very generous offer, and now…well…we don’t really have much of a choice.” 

“Elphaba, you’ve only met this woman a handful of times.” 

“Says the man who’s couch-crashing at Averic’s mother’s house?” 

“It’s a separate basement,” Fiyero corrected sharply. “And for once we’re not talking about me. You don’t just move into some random lady’s house. Especially if she’s going to be your employer.” 

“It’s a live-in position,” Elphaba defended at once, not sure why the need to justify Galinda’s generosity bubbled so hot in her all of a sudden. “The pay is more than I could get anywhere with a degree, and Liir will be living in a safer neighborhood. Maybe I can even get him into a better school.” 

“Elphaba, you don’t know what kind of baggage Galinda is carrying with her.” 

“I know more than you’d think,” Elphaba complained, her fists curling. “I’ve already signed the contract, Fiyero. I’m invested now, baggage be damned.” 

Fiyero opened his mouth to speak–to complain about how it ‘wasn’t safe’ to live with a stranger–but was cut off as they were approached and subsequently interrupted. The strange man was tall and dressed in business formal, his face hidden behind a pair of dark sunglasses. It was his tie that caught Elphaba’s attention, causing alarm bells to ring in her head. Emerald green. 

“Did you live at this residence, ma’am?” The man asked her, not bothering with introductions or formalities as she screwed up her face. 

“Erm…yes, I did.” 

“This is a tragic event and we’re very sorry for any losses you may have sustained.” The stranger whipped a business card from his sleeve, offering it to her. “A new building will be going up down the street in a matter of weeks. Communicate with our people and we can negotiate your new lease on life.” 

Accepting the card, Elphaba already knew what would be on it. Emerald City Luxury Apartments. She fought to keep her face even, nodding silently in thanks. The man walked away, vanishing like a ghost into the crowd. But squinting into the mass of onlookers, more suited individuals were milling through the masses, passing out business cards for Oscar Diggs apartments. 

“Fiyero, look, as much as I’d like to stand here arguing with you? I need to handle something.” 

“Elphaba, wait.” 

“You’ll still get Liir every other weekend. I’ll text you. I need to go. Bye, Fiyero.” 

“Elphaba!” 

Leaving Fiyero behind, Elphaba hurried back towards the car. Galinda glanced up as she approached, quickly hanging up her call. Something must’ve shown on her face, as her companion looked instantly suspicious. 

“Elphie? What happened?” 

“This happened.” Shoving the card forward, Galinda blinked and accepted it, her eyes going wide at what it read. “They’re trying to force these families into unaffordable luxury condos.” 

“Oz,” Galinda hissed, flicking the card between her fingers momentarily before pivoting. She bent down to look at her reflection in the car window, gently giving her hair a toss-toss over her shoulders and whipping a lipstick from her handbag. Opening the trunk, she rifled around for a moment before removing a pressed white overcoat which she tossed over her pink, high-neck sweater. “Do I look ok?” 

“Yeah. But what are you doing?” 

“This.” Moving back to the drivers side of the car, Elphaba and Liir jumped as the blonde pounded the horn a few times, cutting through the chatter of the onlookers still watching the fire burn. Peaches didn’t react to the horn, seeing as she couldn’t hear it. But she did tap her shoes together curiously as the crowd turned to look at them in alarm. “Attention! Attention please!” Galinda briskly swept herself forward, waving her arms. “Can I have a moment of your time!” 

There was a magnetic draw as the crowd shifted towards her, forming a half-moon shape. Cameras swung to face her, the shine of dark lenses flashing in the afternoon as Elphaba awkwardly tried to hide her face, not wanting to get caught in the crossfire of whatever her companion was up to. 

“Everyone, I have an announcement.” Galinda gave a dazzling white smile, the tiredness of her face seeming to melt away as someone new was revealed from underneath. “My name is Galinda Upland, of the Chuffery-Upland’s. And this building, as many are in Oz, is protected under the UCLAP Trust. How many of you recieved a card like this?” Holding up Oz’s business card, many in the crowd raised their hands, murmuring amongst themselves unhappily. “Emerald City Luxury Apartment Complexes are a parasite in our beloved communities. As CEO of UCLAP—having taken such a mantle in my late-husband's stead—I guarantee you will not be losing your homes today. My people will be reaching out to each and every person registered to this building with hotel and department store vouchers, all free of charge. I promise my team will set to work rebuilding and have you back in your homes with no increase to your rent by the end of the month.” 

There was a swell of hope in the air, followed by claps. Business cards fell to the ground like snowfall, picking up shoe prints as people began to disperse. Galinda wrung her hands as a news crew approached, camera still rolling, microphone in hand. 

“Mrs. Upland, a moment of your time for an interview? Milla Prescitoria, Green City News. Tell us about this unprecedented move in the wake of this incident.” 

“It’s very simple,” Galinda noted swiftly, giving the crew a kindly smile. “UCLAP was founded for people, not for profit. It’s disgusting behavior, trying to exploit some of the most vulnerable people in our beloved city after they’ve already lost everything.” 

“What about the expense?” 

“UCLAP funds are used to pay fair wages to my employees, but also to better our communities. The new building will be exactly what it was before with the necessary upgrades, so that rent will not increase for these families who need financial stability.” 

“You claim to be the new UCLAP CEO. Is it true that Westin Chuffery has died?” 

Elphaba coiled up at the question. Galinda stiffened as well, losing some of her poise as her hands curled at her sides. 

“I…yes, I’m afraid so. I have no other details at this time, but my husband passed away peacefully and with his family following the terrible accident involving a drunk driver a few months ago.” 

“I’m…so very sorry to hear that, Mrs. Upland. We give you our condolences here at Green City News.”  

“Thank you, Ms. Prescitoria. Please, if you’ll excuse me?” 

Milla nodded, waving for the cameras to be cut as Galinda elegantly stepped away. She was trembling by the time she got back to the car, holding onto her fingertips as they shook. 

“Galinda?” Elphaba opened the back doors, quickly ushering Liir and Peaches into their designated car seats. “Are you ok?”

“Mhmm.” The woman rolled her lips, not saying a word as Elphaba opened the passenger's side door for her. Watching the blonde practically collapse into the cushions, Elphaba took her place behind the wheel. There was silence in the car for a moment; She didn’t miss the tears which quickly escaped from Galinda’s eyes, her narrow frame shivering as she sniffled. 

“Mommy?” Liir reached out to tug Elphaba’s sleeve. He spoke in a whisper that wasn’t quite a whisper at all, but an attempt was made nonetheless. “I think Miss Galinda needs ice cream.” 

Elphaba licked her lips before nodding, throwing the car into drive. “I think you’re right.”

The drive to the Green City Mall was silent. Well, as silent as a drive could be with two toddlers in the car. Galinda said nothing, busy trying to re-compose herself while Elphaba maneuvered the streets. The knew this part of town well, though driving such a nice car in it made her nervous. Only when they were sat at a table, ice cream in hand, did Galinda seem to return from wherever she’d been. 

“Thank you, Miss Elphaba,” the woman mumbled, picking at her vanilla scoop with a few banana slices and chocolate drizzle. “I…I wasn’t…I’m sorry…”

“You weren’t ready for that question. No need to explain it.” Elphaba stirred her own dessert, mixing the chocolate and raspberry sauce with her spoon. Liir already had brownie chunks all over his face, wolfing down his triple chocolate scoop. Peaches nibbled on her ice cream sandwich beside him, the braces on her knees clicking from not being able to touch the floor.  

“I shouldn’t have done that,” Galinda croaked, losing some of her color. “I shouldn’t have done that.” 

“You’re helping a lot of people,” Elphaba reassured. “It was the right thing.” 

“But in front of the media? I just insulted Oz’s entire business model in front of the entire city.” 

Elphaba winced. “That is true.” 

“I’m such an idiot,” Galinda spat angrily, stabbing her ice cream with the spoon, only to immediately uncoil as she glanced at Elphaba apologetically. “I’m so sorry, Elphie.” 

“For what?” 

“You just lost everything. Your life? Your things? How are you feeling?” 

“I’m not sure,” Elphaba admitted. “My father always used to say that things only held as much value as you gave them. Liir and I are both safe. I feel a bit sad about losing what little I had left of my childhood, but it’s nothing that can’t be replaced.” 

“You and Westin would’ve gotten along,” Galinda chuckled, a hint of sadness on her face as she sighed. “He was much the same. Things always came second to family, no matter what it was.” Twirling her diamond wedding ring, Galinda’s lip gently lifted. “I know that you won’t take money if I offer it. But please, at least let me help you with your necessities?” 

“Galinda…” 

“Consider it a no-interest loan. You can pay it back later. But right now, you don’t have anything. And neither does Liir.” 

“I…I…” Elphaba felt her pride shrivel. Galinda was right. Everything they had was now burned to a crisp. Liir had no clothes; no toys or bedding or books. He’d be over the moon to get all new things; something Elphaba had never really been able to give him in the past. “You’ll let me pay it back? Every last penny?” 

“If you insist upon it, though I’d much rather you just take it, no strings attached.” Galinda rested her hand on Elphaba’s, giving the palm a squeeze. “You’ve done so much for me, even though you didn’t need to at all. Please, let me return the favor? Just this once.” 

“Just this once,” Elphaba urged, holding up her finger. “And we’re not going overboard. Just the necessities.” 

“Of course, Elphie. Just the necessities.”

Chapter Text

Elphaba fully underestimated what it was like to shop with Galinda Upland. She really should’ve known better, seeing as what she deemed necessary and what a literal multi-billionaire deemed necessary were completely different things. Especially since that multi-billionaire happened to be someone like Galinda, who was very particular about how she kept her home, and would fuss non-stop until she got her way. When Elphaba thought of ‘necessities’, a quick trip to Ozmart would suffice. The list was as follows: 

-A few sets of clothes that wouldn’t shrink in the wash. They could get more later, but only a few to start were fine. 

-A handful of toiletries and the big prescription bottle of moisturizer she needed for her eczema (a bottle that really was much too expensive in the first place). 

- Shoes; just one pair for each of them for now. 

- Toys and books, and a new backpack for Liir. 

Elphaba knew for a fact the school could provide classroom supplies for him, and bedding wasn’t really needed either since the guest rooms at Galinda’s house were already furnished. Sure Liir might complain about not having his dinosaur sheets and shark blankets, but those were purely aesthetic. The trip wouldn’t cost any more than $300 tops, less if she was able to scrounge for web coupons and in store discounts. It was a price she could easily pay back. Of course, upon telling Galinda her plan, the blonde looked as though she’d been struck across the cheek. She was downright offended, her pretty face scrunching into a look of dissatisfaction that Elphaba couldn’t help but laugh at. After all, it wasn’t often she saw a grown woman pout. At least she knew now where Peaches took all her facial cues from. 

“What?” 

“Elphie, you can’t be serious. Only $300? At Ozmart? That's blasphemous.” 

“Well…yeah. I mean it’s only the necessities, right? Just a few things.” 

“You need much more than that, darling. Besides, Ozmart is an Oscar Diggs property, and I will not have anything of his in my home. No-no, I have much better places in mind. Just leave this to me.” 

“Galinda, I want to pay you back.”  

“And you will. I’ll just slip it out of your paycheck. You won’t even know it's gone.” 

Elphaba would have nightmares about that very sentence for weeks. It would rattle around in her brain like a ricocheting bullet. A few sets of clothes quickly turned into two full closets with outfits for every season. There were wheelbarrows full of toiletries; creams and cosmetics that Elphaba didn’t even know what half of them did. Liir and Peaches were let loose into the toy section, picking and choosing whatever their little hearts desired. But it didn’t stop there. Elphaba wished it would’ve, but it didn’t. 

“Those guest rooms are fine for guests, but you’re staying long term,” Galinda had claimed as they walked into the East Oz Department Store. Two truckloads of stuff were already being same-day delivered to the house, and Elphaba didn’t know how there could possibly be more that they needed. She said as much, but Galinda just stuck up her nose. “I will not have you or Liir stuck in rooms with white paint. No, we’ll make my home your home; you won't miss that tiny apartment a twig.” 

And so clothes and cosmetics turned to paint chips and furniture, all of which was completely unnecessary. But Elphaba let herself be dragged along by the wrist anyway, knowing full well that Galinda was in it now and wouldn’t be able to stop until she was satisfied. She chose a simple style of decoration for the room Elphaba would now call her own, mainly wooden bookshelves which Galinda immediately ordered an entire bookstore to fill, green carpets, chairs, and cushions with a black iron bed frame and emerald drapes. For Liir, he went with his very predictable dinosaur choices, the colors bright enough to make Elphaba want to barf. 

But despite the worry regarding the bill–despite knowing how much money was actually being spent on their behalf–it was hard to tell Galinda to stop. Because for the first time since meeting her, the blonde seemed genuinely happy. She was present, not sick or dozing or anxious about the world around her. The woman’s smile finally reached her dewy brown eyes, causing them to glisten. She laughed and helped Liir choose a paint color for his room, despite there being a million different options. Her son was actively clinging to Galinda’s leg, while Peaches hung on her back, dazzled by the rainbow wall in the paint section. It didn’t seem to matter that Liir wasn’t her own child; she ruffled his hair and kissed his cheek anyway, causing him to giggle as he was given full chaotic rein over his choices. 

Something Elphaba couldn’t really give him. 

She always felt a bit guilty, being the mom that constantly had to tell her son ‘no’ to things. No to the new fun toys or electronics, no to the light up pair of shoes that cost twice as much as a regular pair, no to a personalized bedroom because they were renting. She wanted to give Liir the world, but never had the means. Galinda had the means, and Liir was taking full advantage of it. They didn’t return to the Upland house until the sun was beginning to set, and apparently, it had been a busy place while they were gone. There were swarms of people everywhere, all running around the property, emptying out the last of a few trucks which sat in the driveway. 

“Galinda? What’s all this?” 

“Hmm? Oh, I called Pfannee and Shenshen to help organize while we were gone.” 

“Pfannee and…?” 

“My other two assistants,” Galinda noted, pointing across the porch. Indeed, a well dressed pair stood nesr the door with clipboards, a shorter, darker haired young man of asian descent, and a tall, curvy blonde in a very impressive pair of high heels. They immediately scuttled over upon seeing Galinda, greeting her with hugs and kisses on both cheeks. “Hello, darlings. Thank you for helping out at the last minute. You’re life savers.” 

“Anything for you, Galinda,” Pfannee said, clutching Galinda’s hand and giving it a squeeze. “You know we miss you at the office.” 

“So much,” Shenshen agreed with a nod. Galinda smiled at them both, but it seemed very terse as she took back her arms and tilted her head at Elphaba. 

“This is Elphaba Thropp. My new external personal assistant.” 

“External assistant?” Pfannee’s brows jumped above his glasses. His eyes slipped to Elphaba, giving her a slow once over. “I didn’t realize you had another position open.” 

“It was a last minute decision. I just…I need some extra help now that…well…now that things have changed so drastically? Once she’s set up with work equipment, you’ll be directing most of your communications through her. Clear?” 

“Oh, of course,” Pfannee agreed immediately, shaking off the judgement which had crawled onto his features. Shenshen had a similar expression, but grunted as she was elbowed in the chest. 

“Oof, r–right. Gotta protect your peace and all that.” 

“Hmm, quite. Is everything settled here? I wanted it done before we got back.” 

“We got only the best for you, Galinda.” Pfannee assured. “The new rooms should be painted and move in ready. They even brought in those special dryers so it’s not wet anymore.” 

“I hope so. It’s been a long day, I think we’re all ready to crash. Have a good evening you two.” Giving the pair a polite nod, Galinda turned to the car to help Peaches out of her booster seat. Elphaba did the same with Liir before they all entered the house together. As promised, most of the workers were already finished besides a few stragglers. 

“Mom! Mom, let’s go see!” 

“I’m coming, bud,” Elphaba scoffed, once again dragged by the hand and down the hall. Indeed, the guest rooms had been completely gutted and remodeled in a matter of hours. It was almost like magic—they hadn’t been gone that long at all—but Elphaba supposed things got done when you had money. Liir was bouncing off the walls at all his new things, oohing and ahhing excitedly. Elphaba couldn’t hide the pleasure at what had been done with her own room, the green paint and heavy drapes creating a cozy, comfortable atmosphere rather than the stark white of the original decor. 

“I realize I may have gone a bit overboard.” 

Turning, Galinda stood in the open doorway. She looked almost meek, a very faint redness dashing her cheeks while she nervously knotted her fingers together. 

“Galinda, this is too much. But…it’s really wonderful.” Elphaba gave her best smile. “Thank you.” 

“This was a much needed distraction,” the woman agreed softly, something sitting between her brows. It almost seemed like she wanted to say something, but didn’t know how. 

“Is everything ok?” 

“Yeah. I just…I have one more thing for you. If you’d come with me into the office for a moment.” 

“Oh. Yeah, of course.” Leaving the kids to play and explore Liir’s new room together, Peaches rapidly opening the toy drawer to see what was inside while Liir bounced on the bed, Elphaba stepped into the office with Galinda. She delicately closed the door behind them, opening up the drapes to let in the setting sun. “So what’s up?” 

“Tomorrow, we’ll get you properly set up with everything you’ll need uniform wise for your new position. But there’s one more thing. I went ahead and had it taken care of.” 

“This sounds kinda serious,” Elphaba frowned, leaning against the desk as Galinda opened her purse to remove a small, emerald green box from inside. 

“Westin was a very traditional man. We grew up in the old country, you see? He was very particular about time. About how much of it we had before…” Galinda paused, choking on the words as she hastily cleared her throat. “Anyway. You’ll be needing this for your uniform. It's required of all UCLAP employees.” 

Accepting the box from Galinda’s hand, Elphaba opened it. Inside, wrapped around a pillow of matching green velvet, was a very expensive looking gold watch. It was an attractive thing, not too bulky with an emerald green face and embossed golden roman numerals. The center of the dial sparkled with a decently large diamond, while the exterior was studded with tiny white and gold gemstones. 

“Galinda, sweet Oz. I couldn’t possibly accept this. It’s beautiful.” 

“I really do appreciate what you’ve done for me, Elphaba. I was just a stranger in a hospital room who wasn’t very kind to you. You could’ve just forgotten that we’d ever met; gone on with your life. Loathed the very thought of me until the memory faded from your mind. I’d be much worse off today if you hadn’t stayed.” Galinda smiled, though it was very small as she gently removed the watch from its box. “May I?” 

“Galinda…”

“You deserve beautiful things, Miss Elphaba. I’m just happy I get to be the one to give them to you.” Galinda slipped the watch onto her left wrist, her fingers gently lingering. “There. It looks good on you. Very sophisticated.” 

Elphaba stared at the gift, running her thumb around the exterior metal edge. She could already feel herself falling in love with it, from the unique patterns in the face, to the rhythmic ticking of the hands. 

“Thank you.” 

“I really hope you’ll be comfortable here, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda said quietly. “I know how hard it is to lose your home.”

“What do you mean?” Elphaba furrowed her brows, watching Galinda shuffle as she wrapped her arms around herself. She shook her head then. 

“Nothing.” 

“Clearly not nothing. You can tell me if you want.” 

“It’s going to sound silly...” 

“Galinda, what is it?” 

“Its just…I have all the money in the world.” The woman chuckled, though it sounded bitter and hurt in her throat. “More than I need. More than anyone needs. But I can’t do anything with it. I can use it for others; for you and Liir, for Peaches, for all of Oz if I wanted. But it can’t fill up the gaping wound I have inside.” Galinda inhaled sharply, squeezing her eyes shut as she curled her fists. “I look at this house and I don’t know it anymore. It’s not my home, because the man I loved isn’t in it. I feel like a stranger in my own skin, in these walls, in this world, because it’s just so empty all of a sudden. I just want to tear myself apart to try and make it stop. Because it hurts, and I don’t have anywhere to go. B—because my home is gone, Elphaba, and I can’t…I can’t ever get him back.” 

Galinda gasped again, almost unable to breathe. She fell against the glass of the office’s sliding door, digging both hands into her hair as she pulled her head to her knees. The happiness of the day was so temporary. It had damned the grief for a moment, but Elphaba could see it physically crash down on Galinda’s body in waves. She was caught suddenly and dangerously in a very dark storm; one that had whipped itself up in seconds. Her body trembled and her eyes filled with tears. 

Elphaba quickly locked the door, not wanting to be disturbed. She’d seen how Galinda turned off her grief if Peaches needed her. And as strong as she was for doing that, grief didn’t wait. Elphaba had felt it when she lost her sister. She knew the weight of the world was crushing Galinda one day at a time. Situating herself on the floor, back against the wall, Elphaba manhandled the blonde closer to her. She firmly but gently pried her hands out from her long blonde hair, frowning at blood now coating the tips of her fingernails. 

“I’ve got you,” Elphaba urged, pulling Galinda flat against her stomach so that she could feel another person’s breathing with her. So that she was as grounded in reality as she could possibly be. “It’s alright.” 

“I want it to stop,” Galinda whispered, leaning forward against Elphaba’s arms as though ready to collapse. “I want…I want to…to just take a pill and make it go away.” 

“You don’t need the pills,” Elphaba reassured firmly. “Galinda, listen to me. You don’t need them.” 

“It hurts.” 

“I know.” With nothing else to add, Elphaba pulled Galinda backwards, not caring about the close proximity as she dragged her hand through the woman’s blonde hair, pushing it out of her eyes. “You don’t need the drugs.” 

“They made things so much easier,” Galinda admitted, staring up at the ceiling. “I don’t want to do this anymore, Elphie.” 

“You have to,” Elphaba urged, pressing her head against Galinda’s shoulder blade. “For Peaches. Those pills were killing you.” 

“And this isn’t? Elphie, I can’t go on without him. He was my everything. It feels like I’m dying every day I wake up and he’s not here.” 

“Half of him still exists in your daughter. You need to be strong for her.” 

“She’d be better off without me…” 

“No. No, Galinda, don’t you dare think that way. Peaches needs her mom, ok? She needs you. It wouldn’t be fair to lose her mom and her dad. You need to be here for her now more than ever. Understand me?” 

“I’m just so tired.” 

“Then sleep.” 

“I don’t want to dream.” 

“Then close your eyes, even if it’s just for a second. I’ve got you, ok? I’m not going anywhere.” 

“You’re too good to me, Miss Elphaba,” Galinda hiccuped, her eyes fluttering shut as Elphaba ran a hand through her hair over, and over again. She did this with Liir sometimes when he got too worked up about something, her long nails tingling against the skin of his scalp. It seemed to work for Galinda too, that or she really had been holding back the floodgates all day and was beyond exhausted. She was asleep in a matter of seconds, slumped against Elphaba’s chest. 

It was very awkward, trying to get up off the floor without waking her. But she managed it, thankful Galinda didn’t weigh very much as Elphaba gathered the woman into her arms. She effectively returned her to the guest bedroom—the only one now left untouched in the house. Pulling the blankets over her and double checking for any signs of illness (no more fever, no more chills), Elphaba jumped a little when she felt something tug at her pant leg. She hadn’t even heard Peaches come through the door; the child was impressively quiet for being on crutches. 

“Peaches,” Elphaba hissed under her breath, pressing a hand to the flat of her chest. “Don’t do that to me.” 

The little blonde just blinked cluelessly up at her. Right. Deaf. Making a show of screwing up her face in question, Peaches pursed her lips and looked at the bed. Awkwardly she set her crutches on the floor, hobbling forward on her braces before crawling onto the mattress. Understanding now, Elphaba helped the girl remove her shoes and socks, letting her wild blonde hair out of its ponytail. Removing any clips or accessories and setting them on the bedside table, Elphaba lifted the blanket again to let the six-year-old crawl into bed with her mom. 

Galinda responded immediately, pulling the child close to her without even needing to open her eyes. Tucking the two beautiful blondes back under the blankets, Elphaba was sure to leave the door open a little as she left them to rest. She went back to Liir’s room, finding the boy already neck deep in the day’s spoils. 

“Liir?”

He looked up, dark eyes gleaming happily. “Hi mom.” 

“Come hang out on the couch with me for a bit, yeah?” 

“Ok.” Accepting her son into her arms, Liir gave her a big hug around the neck, squeezing tightly. “Today was awesome. Can we go shopping every day?” 

“We’re never doing this much shopping again,” Elphaba chuckled, yawning herself as she took Liir out to the sofa and turned on a cartoon for him. The boy didn’t last long, conked out on her chest in a minute or two. Elphaba sighed, playing with his dark curls in her fingertips. She lifted her arm to stare at the gold watch, tilting it back and forth to catch the light. Galinda wasn’t like anyone she’d ever met before. The woman was an enigma…a mystery. A titan who was carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders and collapsing under the strain. 

Elphaba didn’t know how much she could really do in the end. But she hoped, at least, to help keep Galinda from completely falling apart. 

Chapter Text

It was 2:30 in the morning and Galinda was awake again. 

Elphaba wasn’t expecting anyone when she tip-toed out of her room and into the kitchen. They’d forgone a proper dinner in favor of evening naps meaning she was starving. Thankfully Galinda had groceries delivered along with everything else from their shopping trip, meaning the kids were satiated and sent back to bed with peanut-butter and jelly sandwiches and a glass of milk each. But that apparently wasn’t enough for her stomach. 

She really shouldn’t have been awake, seeing as she had to be up in a few hours to get Liir ready for school. Something she was ashamed to say she always dreaded. Elphaba wasn’t crazy about having to drive him across town at such an early hour, seeing as he disliked school and fought her every step of the way. Liir had tried every trick in the book to stay home, from illnesses to injuries, to burst pipes or the school exploding in an alien attack. The last thing he tried (almost every day now) was tears, and Elphaba just didn’t know what to do. Liir hated school. It wasn’t a surprise, seeing as he struggled to make friends and keep up with the pace of his teachers. 

He’d already been suspended multiple times for poor behavior. 

First grade had been a nightmare so far for her son, but there wasn’t much Elphaba could do. Or at least, she didn’t have the means to do it. The west side of Oz wasn’t known for being accommodating to people’s differences. Not to her eczema, which needed to be medicated but was horribly expensive to upkeep. And not to Liir’s learning struggles, where there just weren’t enough hours in the day to make school enjoyable. Perhaps it was the thought of having to fight with him every day that woke her up and not just her grumbling stomach. 

Elphaba’s heart jumped as she stepped into the kitchen, having not noticed Galinda sitting there. The woman was perched at one of the barstools, haloed in the soft golden glow of dimmable can lights. Her laptop was open, but it’s screen had long since gone dark. The woman seemed to be lost in thought, nursing a glass of wine in one hand. A bottle sat open not far from her other arm, only a swig left in the bottom. Had she been drinking all night? 

Not wanting to disturb her, Elphaba began to slowly back out of the room. But Galinda immediately snapped out of her daze, blinking a few times as a couple stray tears escaped rapidly down her cheeks. 

“Oh, Elphie.” Galinda sniffled a bit, setting down her wine glass and using the heel of her palm to swipe water out of her eyes. “I’m sorry. I didn’t wake you, did I?” 

“N—no, no. I’ll just…?” Pointing back to the bedroom, Galinda shook her head and gave her a tight smile.  

“Please don’t mind me. What did you need?” 

“I’m just a little hungry. But it can wait till morning.” 

“Do you drink wine?” 

“Sometimes,” Elphaba answered, rubbing the back of her neck. Galinda continued to smile, though it was very tired and terse as she stood up. There was a wobble to her gait as she fetched another glass from the cupboard and a bottle from the rack. 

“Make yourself something. A midnight snack goes best with a classic red.” 

Nodding hesitantly, Elphaba went to the fridge. Seeing as it was late, she didn’t want to make a mess of the counters which Galinda had meticulously cleaned after meal prep, so she grabbed a bagel and some cream cheese instead. Without thinking she took two, garnishing them both before sliding it to Galinda. The woman stared at it blearily, like she wasn’t fully present in her own skin. “I don’t need anything…?”

“It’s weird to eat alone,” Elphaba insisted, closing the fridge and sitting on the stool next to her companion. The blonde didn’t seem to be in an argumentative mood, merely pouring a half-glass with practiced ease. Galinda moved to fill her own glass back up—one that Elphaba swore had been full just a moment ago—but she reached her hand to cover the rim. Upon Galinda’s dewy-eyed stare, she nodded to the already empty bottle. “Water might be best, don’t you think?” 

“Hmm. You’re probably right.” As though noticing the empty bottle for the first time, Galinda wearily pushed away her glass, wobbling to get a drink of water instead. Elphaba didn’t relax until she was back in her chair, a different drink between her narrow fingertips. After all, with her propensity for fainting as of recently, Elphaba much preferred her sitting down. 

Especially when she was very obviously drunk. 

“Is everything ok?” Elphaba asked, picking her bagel into more manageable sized bites. Galinda just stared at her own plate in thoughtful silence, eventually shaking her head and slowly setting her water down beside it. 

“No, it’s not. But thanks for asking.” 

She didn’t want to talk. Elphaba tilted her head in understanding of the unspoken request, focusing on her meal and allowing a comfortable silence to linger. Fiyero used to tell her often that she was too loud…too aggressive. That she was always yelling; screaming her lungs out trying to be heard. But that was only ever because Fiyero never listened to her. She had to scream in his ear just for him to do the bare minimum. The apartment had been much quieter after the split. 

Elphaba certainly didn’t need to yell at Galinda to be heard. 

She felt the woman’s eyes watching her from across the kitchen island, silently observing in the dark of night. Her long nails tapped a familiar, unhappy roll against the quartz. 

“Is something on your mind, Miss Elphaba?” Galinda’s head fell to one side, causing her pretty blonde ponytail to cascade across her shoulders. “What’s the matter?”  

It was Elphaba’s turn to hesitate. Talking with Fiyero about Liir’s learning and behavioral challenges had been completely useless. The man wasn’t mature enough to care that his son was doing poorly in school, let alone that he was picking fights with other kids on the playground and saying things he shouldn’t have. Fiyero himself barely graduated; he only got into college with his parents' money and influence. But perhaps Galinda might have some insight, being a mother herself. 

“I’m worried about Liir.” 

“Oh?” Galinda’s daze seemed to lift, her body turning a little on the barstool so they were properly face to face. “Why’s that? He seems like a perfectly happy kid.” 

“At home he’s happy, but that’s not the problem,” Elphaba admitted, rubbing a temple with one hand. “Liir’s been having a lot of problems at school. Both in his learning, and in his behavior.” 

Explaining Liir’s tendency to take out his frustrations using his fists rather than his words, Galinda was very quiet through the entire explanation. Elphaba went on about his various suspensions from class, his inability to finish assignments without a meltdown, and his teary pleading for her not to make him go to school each day. She didn’t realize how much it was weighing on her until the tension released from inside her chest like a spring, causing her to rub her sternum. 

“I just don’t know what to do with him,” Elphaba admitted finally, taking a swig of her wine and roughly pulling her braids over one shoulder. “Does Peaches have any issues at school?” 

“Peaches never attended a regular school,” Galinda told her. “Before the accident, she attended the East Ridge School for the Deaf, which is small and has specialized programs with teachers and faculty who sign.” 

“What about after?” 

“I um…I don’t want Peaches out of my sight for long, so I’ve been homeschooling her.” 

“You can’t possibly have time for all of that,” Elphaba gawked. “Running the business and homeschooling full time? That’s not too much?” 

“It is a little bit, but I can’t bear the thought of Peaches being gone all day. Besides, she gets easily flustered when she can’t understand something and not everyone can sign, so it’s best if I handle it. Have you talked to Liir about why he doesn’t like school?” 

“I know some of the bigger boys pick on him,” Elphaba sighed, furrowing her brows. “I know he isn’t able to keep up with the teacher, and doesn’t like the assignments he’s given.” 

“Hmm. Pardon my…um…assumptions, but the west side doesn’t have the best support for young learners. Is that right?” 

“It’s a crummy school, yeah,” Elphaba snorted, smiling at Galinda’s attempts not to blatantly call her poor. “But I have to work and Liir needs to be in school. There’s no other options.” 

“There are now,” her companion noted, finally picking up her bagel to tear off a piece. “There are wonderful schools here on the east side. But…” 

“But? I’d rather pay more money to get him into a better school, so long as it wouldn’t bankrupt me.” 

“No, no, it’s not that. I just…I don’t want to imply something that may upset you?” Galinda’s brows furrowed. “So if you don’t mind my honesty…?” 

“I have thick skin.” 

“It seems to me, purely on what you’ve said, that Liir may need more attention than a regular school can offer? Even if it’s in a better neighborhood. Perhaps we should look into supportive education, rather than public school.” 

“Supportive education?” 

“Mhm. Schools that are smaller, but offer different avenues of learning for kids like Liir, who maybe don’t do well in regular classes. Peaches is like that too; very easily flustered. I’m afraid she gets that from me.” Galinda chuckled, her brain already whirring behind her eyes. It was amazing that Elphaba could actually see her making plans real time, formulating to-do lists and webs of contacts that she’d need in order to bring her thoughts into reality. “There is a school the next neighborhood over that I could touch base with. They specialize in children’s adjusted learning.” 

“What’s the tuition?” 

“I’ll have to grab you a packet. Both for the school and for UCLAP’s familial education scholarship. You and Liir most certainly qualify. It’s guaranteed financial support for educational purposes, both for Liir, and for you.” 

“Why is it you always have an answer for things?” Elphaba asked, releasing a deep breath. It was truly astonishing how quickly Galinda could assuage her concerns, mainly due to her means, but also due to how much she actually knew about the city. 

“I don’t. Westin was a chronic over-planner,” Galinda laughed, her lip flickering. “When we were ready to have Peaches, he went through every possible scenario that could happen. There’s a folder full of college possibilities somewhere.” 

“College? She’s six.” 

“Yes, I know. He really was just like that. Always worried about the future. But there are times his vigor for preparedness came in handy. Like when Peaches was born deaf? He knew what to do; he had sign language books at the ready. Even now he’s still looking out for me.” Galinda’s face sank as she ran a palm across her laptop. “I’ve been planning his…his um…end of life? But he already did it.” 

Elphaba couldn’t help it as her brows arched. “Everything?” 

“Everything. He bought a family plot in the East Side cemetery, a place for him and for me beneath this lovely cherry blossom tree. He chose the casket, the venue, the catering, the flowers, the music. He even chose what flavor cake there will be. He planned everything in advance. I just…have to choose a date. And somehow that’s the hardest part.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“It’s not your doing.” Galinda sniffled a little, eying Elphaba’s wine longingly. “It’s something that needs to be done, but I refuse to let anyone else do it. Westin took care of me, Elphaba, it’s my turn to return the favor. But it’s just so…hard.” 

“If it helps, you don’t have to sweat the little stuff anymore,” Elphaba noted quietly, reaching out a hand to gently place it over her companions. The fingers were shaking, and the diamond wedding ring on Galinda’s finger was cold as ice against her palm. “I don’t mind cooking and cleaning a bit.” 

“Oh, you’ll be doing much more important things than that, I’m sure,” Galinda scoffed, laughing away the tears that were bubbling in her eyes. “I care deeply for Pfannee and Shenshen, but they do tend to share a brain cell, and it’s quite impractical for two people to only be able to function as one.”

“I noticed that.” 

“Yes. Thankfully they’re quite bright as a pair, which is why I keep them around. Hopefully they don’t drive you up the wall.” 

“I don’t think anything could chase me away now,” Elphaba joked, curling her fingers around Galinda’s and giving them a light squeeze. “Like I told you before, I’m invested now. You can’t scare me off that easily.” 

Chapter Text

“Galinda, I’m so sorry…” 

“You don’t have to keep apologizing, Elphie.” 

“I know, I know. I just…I don’t know how to fix this. I should have this handled by now, but it’s only getting worse.” Elphaba’s hands were wrapped so tight around the steering wheel that her knuckles had gone pale. Galinda sat beside her, pristine in a neat white blazer and slacks combo that was probably more expensive than her rent. She was touching up her makeup in the visor mirror, while also keeping an eye on Peaches, who was reading a book in the back seat. “I’m sorry.” 

Elphaba hated to admit that she was embarrassed because of her son. She loved Liir with everything she was, but his behavior sometimes was too much even for her to deal with. It didn’t help that they were now out of their usual routine and living in another woman’s home. As she expected, the boy threw an absolute fit about going to school, screaming and crying, doing whatever he could to force her hand. And though Galinda hadn’t said anything, Elphaba knew it was impossible not to hear the ruckus her son made that morning. 

“It’s not his fault,” Galinda noted beside her, finishing up her lip gloss as she delicately rubbed it into place. “Kids have big emotions sometimes. Peaches has her fair share of tantrums, it’s not new to me.” 

“It’s only gotten worse since the divorce,” Elphaba sighed, stopping them at a red light as she leaned on her hand with a sigh. “He misses his dad, but Fiyero and I just don’t work anymore.” 

“Elphie, really, you don’t need to explain yourself,” Galinda insisted, closing the visor as she gently toss-tossed her hair over her shoulders. “Liir is only six. Kids can’t regulate the way we can, small things can be more catastrophic to them than they are to us.” 

“But he’s old enough to control these outbursts,” Elphaba moaned. “He can handle things in every other situation. It’s just this.” 

“All the more reason to look into a new school,” Galinda told her, pointing to a rather fancy looking strip mall off to the right side of the street. “Pull in here.”

“I just don’t know how you do it, Galinda,” Elphaba mumbled, glancing at Peaches in the back who was well enough distracted by her reading. “Peaches is so well behaved. I’d be in heaven if Liir was that quiet.” Throwing the car into park, Galinda was staring very intently forward, as though suddenly in deep thought. Elphaba frowned a little, realizing she may have said the wrong thing. “I’m…did I say something?” 

“N–no, no. It’s just not that simple.” 

“What’s going on?” 

“There’s another reason Peaches doesn’t attend school anymore,” Galinda admitted slowly, finding the right words as she sat back, pulling her knee up to her chest and wrapping both arms around it. “Something I haven’t told you.” 

“Oh?” Elphaba unbuckled her seatbelt, turning so Galinda had her full attention. “Is she ok?” 

“No. No, she’s…” the blonde made a motion with her hands, words slipping through her fingers. “The accident was catastrophic, Elphie. Peaches should be dead. That’s what the EMT’s told me, anyway.” Galinda squirmed where she sat, her face scrunching as she rested her chin on her knee. “She’s not the same girl now as she was six months ago.” 

“I don’t doubt it. It was probably terrifying…” 

“No, Elphie. I mean Peaches really isn’t the same girl.” Galinda made a tsking noise between her teeth as she glanced back at her daughter, grief swimming in her deep brown eyes. “She hit her head on the door panel in the accident; it caused severe bleeding in her skull. She hasn’t always been mute; she used to speak.” 

“What?” Elphaba sat back in surprise, her own face furrowing in confusion. “I don’t understand.” 

“Peaches was a lot like Liir. Perhaps the reason they get along so well despite not communicating in the normal way. She was energetic and full of life; a troublemaker if there ever was one. She would chat about everything and anything even though she couldn’t hear. Her and Westin were two peas in a pod, you know? But after the surgery…?” Galinda hesitated, wringing her hands and twirling her wedding ring. “The Doctors said there could be behavioral changes due to the damage. I’m so lucky to still have my daughter, but after all that’s happened, I didn’t just lose my husband. I lost a part of Peaches too, one that I’ll never get back. I would give anything to have her be as loud as Liir again, Elphie. Anything. Don’t take that for granted, because you just never know when things could change.” 

“So she’s quiet because of a head trauma?” Elphaba felt something sharp twist in her gut like a blade. It was just a reminder that despite staying in Galinda’s home, she really didn’t know the blonde all that well yet. It felt as though they’d known one another for a lifetime, but moments like this quickly reminded her otherwise. 

“I see more and more of the girl she was every day.” Galinda laughed a bit, though it was dry and painful between her lips. “But she’ll never be the same again. I suppose I’m not really either.” Reaching out to gently touch Elphaba’s knee with her fingertips, the blonde gave her best smile. “You love Liir; you want what’s best for him. I’ll help you get him into a better school, just don’t ever be weary of something neither of you can really control. Ok?” 

Elphaba swallowed hard, the breath going down her throat like a rock. “Ok.” 

“It’ll be alright, you’ll see. Now, let’s get you some proper clothes, shall we?” 

“Only a few things, right, Galinda?” Elphaba asked as the blonde opened the door, basking in the Ozian sunlight with a sigh. “Galinda!”

“Of course, of course, darling! Just the must haves.” 

Elphaba knew that was a lie. She really shouldn’t have trusted Galinda Upland as much as she did when it came to ‘must haves’. If there was one thing she knew for certain about the woman, it was that she loved to shop. Specifically, on Elphaba’s behalf. Standing to the side as Peaches was removed from her booster seat and placed on her crutches, Galinda crouched to give her a kiss on the cheek, fussing with her long, tousled ponytail. As she did–her hand pulling blonde locks to one side–Elphaba saw it. She didn’t know how she’d missed it, seeing as the scar was at least a palms length from hairline to crown. It was a massive and serious injury, and the mere sight of it made her heart ache. Galinda’s overprotectiveness suddenly made a lot more sense. 

Following the pair into the store, it was quite large and made of modern glass panes and steel bars. The staff inside were well dressed in black with white collars, all wearing gold name tags. Passing by one of the immaculately kept mannequins, Elphaba nearly fainted at the price tag. 

“Elphie!” 

Gulping, Elphaba worried instantly what she’d just gotten herself into. And, like the previous shopping trip, doing anything with Galinda Upland was a whirlwind. It started with a fitting, where she was measured at every angle using a rolling measuring tape. That was followed up with a lesson in color seasons, a long discussion about style preferences, and a few test outfits that were not for her. 

“I don’t want anything to draw attention to my skin,” she complained at being put in a fully white outfit, not dissimilar to the one Galinda wore. “Not so um…bright, you know?” 

And so the process began again in a tornado of fabrics, styles, collars, no-collars, pants, and skirts. Eventually Galinda gave up standing, falling to lounge across a daybed like an old-world Ozian empress. Peaches was coloring at her feet, while Elphaba stood before her like a muse or a statue. Each outfit had to be Galinda approved, either receiving a thumbs up, or a thumbs down. It was strange, but Elphaba couldn't help but wonder if this is what gladiators felt like when going to battle for their Emperor. 

“Galinda, is all this really necessary?” 

“Of course it is,” the woman chirped from behind a circular curtain, Elphaba awkwardly pulling at a silky green sleeveless blouse. “The longer you fuss in there the longer this will take, darling.” 

“Is this how a mannequin feels?” 

“Fabulous? Yes. Are you going to come out and show me or not?” 

Elphaba adjusted her nice black knee length skirt, tucking the top into the waistline before pulling the curtain. Galinda, still on the sofa, blinked at her. The expression on her face was unreadable, but the stare was that of approval as she slowly tilted her head for further examination. 

“Well?” Elphaba held out her arms, resisting the urge to nervously scratch at her eczema as Galinda licked her lips. “What do you think?” 

“I think that suits you quite well.” The blonde rolled to her feet, circling once, then twice. She stopped so they were face to face, her brown eyes still wandering as she reached out to adjust the blouse’s collar. Her fingertips brushing against Elphaba’s neck made her skin prickle, and not in the usual itchy sort of way. “Lovely.” 

“Approved by the boss?” 

“As much as I love your arms darling, you can’t go anywhere without a proper jacket. I think I saw one over there that will work perfectly. One moment.” Galinda pivoted, waving a hand to get Peaches attention. The blue-eyed girl looked up as her mother signed something with two hands, to which she immediately agreed. Elphaba didn’t know sign language yet–she needed to get a book on it sooner rather than later–but she could infer the meaning based on the motion. Stay here. Still twisting and turning in the mirror, admiring the outfit she’d chosen, there was a sudden high-pitched shriek. It pierced the store like a bell, followed swiftly by the sudden shattering of glass. Heart leaping, Elphaba ran to Peaches first, grabbing her swiftly into her arms. 

The child was confused but didn’t squirm, locking onto her with both legs. There was chaos everywhere, staff running in various directions in pure panic. Outside, Elphaba saw the tail-end of a black SUV skid off, away from the now broken storefront. And in the middle of a sea of broken glass… 

“Galinda!” 

Passing Peaches to one of the staff closest to her, Elphaba was glad she had kicked on her boots after putting on the new outfit. Crunching fearlessly through the mess, she crouched down at Galinda’s side. There was a large cut across her forehead, a sizable chunk of round concrete not far from her right shoulder. Did someone throw that at her? “Galinda? Hey, are you ok? Can you hear me?” 

“...hell and Oz,” the woman groaned, her dark lashes fluttering as Elphaba slumped in relief. There was broken glass all over her, meaning whoever did this had been waiting for her to get near the window. Careful not to get an armful of glass, Elphaba slowly brought the blonde up into a sitting position, keeping a firm hand on the small of her back as wavered.  

“What happened?” 

“It was so fast.” 

“Who did this?” 

“He was wearing a mask; I didn’t see his face.” Galinda touched her forehead with a small wince, frowning as her fingertips came back bloodied. “He threw something at me.” 

“It’s a rock of some kind,” Elphaba growled in unhappiness, gently touching around the edges of the wound as Galinda’s face flickered again. “No concussion this time, right?” 

“I don’t…I don’t think so?”

“Galinda, this is getting out of hand,” Elphaba said, pushing errant blonde hair from the woman’s face to keep it from getting stained. “You can’t keep going on like this.” 

“I’ve tried to get the police involved, but they say they can’t do anything. I’ve tried, Miss Elphaba.”

“Then we need to try harder,” she replied, gently snaking her arm under Galinda’s legs to pick her up. “Don’t move, there’s broken glass all over you.” 

“Where’s Peaches?” 

“She’s fine, I got her. Let’s worry about you for a minute.” 

“I’m a bit sick of people worrying about me,” the blonde complained, wincing again as Elphaba deposited her on the sofa, brushing glass shards from her clothing. “I wish you wouldn’t.” 

“That’s not how it works, Miss Popular,” Elphaba laughed, accepting a first aid kit as it was passed into her hands. Peaches was also returned to them, set on the floor as she blinked worriedly up at her mother. The child signed something, receiving a response from Galinda that was a bit hurried. Peaches didn’t seem ready to accept the answer but said nothing as Elphaba opened up the kit. “Hold still.” 

“Is it bad?” 

“Just a scratch,” she reassured. “Your face is as beautiful now as it was a few minutes ago.” 

Galinda huffed, averting her eyes a bit as a faint blush dusted the tops of her cheeks. Elphaba hit herself for the unnecessary complement, keeping her lips pursed as she cleaned the wound for a better look. “I don’t think you’ll need stitches for this.” 

“Thank goodness,” Galinda noted airily. “You really do have a lovely physique, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Comes with the territory,” she laughed. “Gotta stay fit to keep up with a boy like Liir.” 

“Indeed. I can hardly complain.” 

It was Elphaba’s turn to heat up a little as she snorted, using tape to close the scratch, followed by a patch of cotton. “There. Try not to touch it.” Hesitantly reaching out a hand, Elphaba swiped at the blood dribbling near Galinda’s eye. She didn’t miss how the blonde remained very still, leaning a bit into the touch as she sighed. 

“Thank you, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Yeah.” Elphaba smiled as best she could, the pad of her thumb lingering just a bit too long against soft skin. “Anytime.”

Chapter Text

Elphaba always got looks in the school pickup line. 

Funny, seeing how no one on the west side really had money either. Yet for whatever reason, it was always her getting scrutinized the most. Usually because of her ragged clothes or (former) diner uniform covered in stains, the patchy state of her skin, or the sound her old junker made when it came to a stop at the curb. Other moms were always watching, whispering in their little parent huddles with expressions of distaste. And somehow all of them knew about the divorce. The grape-vine was vast and quick to grow. It really wasn’t anyone else’s business how she chose to raise her son, of course. But Elphaba couldn’t ignore how irritated she felt at being unnecessarily judged. 

Her marriage didn’t work out. So what? People got divorced with kids all the time. It wasn’t a new thing. She was just another rusty nail in an entire box, so why did she always get singled out? But she had a sneaking suspicion her clothes and hair and junker car weren’t going to be a problem anymore. She knew she’d get some looks today, and those huddles of other disgusted moms could take in the glory that was Galinda Upland’s shopping addiction. 

Rolling her ashy knuckles around the steering wheel, Elphaba inhaled the scent of new car. She’d never had a new car before, let alone one that was so ridiculously out of her budget that she was afraid to drive it. But Galinda insisted, and based on what had happened to her just hours ago, Elphaba wasn’t going to deny her something that would make her feel a little bit better. So her old junker was abandoned in a lot of luxury vehicles, replaced with a shiny black SUV the size of a tank. 

‘It may not have the best mileage, but you’ll need space for the car seats,’ Galinda told her on the lot, worrying over the selection of four door sedans. ‘Besides, if you need mileage you can just drive mine. And look,’ Galinda kicked out her high heel excitedly, revealing an electric power step. ‘No need to jump in! Since we’re both…um…a bit vertically challenged.’ 

Elphaba didn’t think being called ‘short’ would make her laugh so hard but it did. She laughed, almost unable to breathe it as the salesman handed her the keys. And though she hated to admit it—she’d had her junker for years—she was liking the feel of the SUV. The leather heated seats, the tall tinted windows, and a nice big rearview mirror to keep an eye on her son. Rolling into the pick-up line at West Oz Elementary, she felt a teeny bit like a celebrity. 

Grabbing her purse (the only thing she refused to let Galinda replace), Elphaba tossed it over her shoulder and opened the door. She really must’ve been quite a sight, wearing one of her blonde companion’s chosen outfits out in public for the first time. It was a neat, dark navy overcoat and pencil skirt combo with faint pinstriping, matched to a pair of reasonable but not short black pumps. Compared to her usual ratty jeans, hoodies, and band t-shirts, Elphaba could feel the eyes on her right away. 

“Miss…Thropp?” 

Approaching the student sign-out table, Principle Coddle blinked up at her from her usually disdainful face. 

“I’m not late,” Elphaba said, leaning down to sign the necessary sheet. She knew, of course, this lifted her sleeve to reveal the watch now on her wrist, it’s green face shining in the afternoon sun. “I’m here to pick up Liir.” 

“Y—yes, I know that. But you look…?” 

“I got a new job,” Elphaba replied without letting her finish, pushing up her glasses and nervously tucking a few braids over her shoulder. “Business formal is a requirement.” 

“Oh. I see.” The stout woman nodded hurriedly, taking back the paper. “Right then. Liir will be right out.” 

“Thank you.” Giving the Principal a tight smile, Elphaba walked back to the car, shuffling worriedly in her heels. Galinda had already gone back to the house with Peaches, but them being alone made her nervous. She didn’t sense that anything bad would happen, but then, she hadn’t sensed the rock being thrown through the front window either. Elphaba wondered if she was losing her touch, or if she’d just been distracted by the excitement of shopping with Galinda Upland. 

“Mom!” 

Shaking out of her thoughts, Elphaba let a real smile stretch across her cheeks as Liir was let out of the school, his new dinosaur backpack hopping up and down as he ran towards her. She steadied herself as he grabbed hold of her legs—as he did every day—giving them a boyish squeeze. “You look so weird!” He announced, giving her a wide-eye’d once over. “You’re not all…mom-like.” 

“I don’t look weird,” Elphaba chuckled, ruffling her son's curls. “Miss Galinda got these clothes for me.” 

“Oh. Is that why you look like her now?” 

“Little bit,” Elphaba laughed, nodding to the car behind her. “Ready to go home?” 

“Where’s your other car?” 

“Miss Galinda helped me get a better one. What do you think?” 

“You mean this is our car? Like…to keep?” 

“Mmhm. And your knees aren’t going to bump into the seat anymore.” Opening the back door, Liir immediately scrambled inside to have a look, pointing out every new thing he could find from the lights to the carpet. Elphaba knew, of course, the back seat probably wouldn’t stay as pristine as this with not one but two six-year-olds riding around with her. Still, she at least could enjoy it for a little while. 

“Do you want to stop at Chistery Wistery on the way home for a snack?” 

“Yeah!“ 

Elphaba couldn’t help but be endeared by her son’s enthusiasm. It was nice that he was easy to please, a bit like his dad. Fiyero also loved the Chistery Wistery, and would stop there to let his son run amok while picking up beer or scratch tickets. She didn’t do that, but did set the boy loose to find a suitable snack for himself. In the meantime she browsed the book section, specifically in the ‘learning and language’ racks until she came across a beginners guide to sign language. There was even a youth one which she picked up for Liir. 

Eventually the boy came back, a bundle of things in his arms as Elphaba scoffed. 

“Liir, I said one snack.” 

“I did pick one!” Liir held out a bag of Monkey Trumpet chips—the cheese flavor which would leave powder all over his fingers.  

“Ok. So what’s the rest of this for?” 

“Peaches, Miss Galinda, and you mom.” Elphaba blinked in surprise, accepting a box of circus animal crackers for Peaches, a bag of the same crackers but frosted (presumably for Galinda, though Elphaba had no idea if she even liked those), and a package of black licorice for herself. 

“Oh. That’s nice of you,” she said, bewilderedly. She loved her son, but he was still a six-year-old boy. He tended to be a little bit selfish when it came to his food, so having him grab things for others—herself included—was new. But she didn’t complain at all, purchasing the items and driving them home again. 

It was a bizarre experience, riding through the East Side on purpose. But at least she didn’t look quite so out of place in a car that was ready to fall apart. Turning the corner, Elphaba nearly slammed on the brakes in surprise. Outside Galinda’s driveway, parked at the curb and hidden by the hedges, was a darkly tinted van not dissimilar to the one she now drove. It had no plates and no markings of any kind. A man in a dark suit and green tie was sitting on the tailgate smoking a cigarette. Upon noting her watching him, he jumped up and swung back into the front seat. 

The van skidded off in a second, screeching around the corner. Shit. Heart racing in fear, Elphaba tore down the driveway of the Upland house. Everything looked fine from a distance, but she couldn’t be sure. Helping Liir out of his booster and grabbing the bag of snacks she all but ran inside, expecting the worst. Thankfully, the worst hadn’t happened. Peaches sat at the kitchen table with a spelling booklet, safe and sound. And if Peaches was calm, that meant Galinda was nearby too. 

Exhaling in relief, Elphaba grabbed the animal crackers from the snack bag and placed them by the girls arm. She immediately brightened upon seeing them, grinning the biggest grin as Liir clambered into the chair beside her. 

“Eat your chips, but don’t leave this table until your homework is done,” Elphaba ordered him, passing the Monkey Trumpets to her son. He agreed to the trade, wrestling his own leaflets of paper out of his backpack. With the kids settled down and happy, Elphaba unbuttoned her overcoat as she walked through the house. It wasn’t hard to find Galinda, her office door slightly ajar. Opening it a little more to see inside, the blonde was speaking rather aggressively with someone in her earpiece. 

She paced back and forth sharply, like a soldier on parade. Her right eye was a little bit bruised from being struck by the rock, it’s lower lid swollen and red. Galinda wasn’t speaking in Ozian, Elphaba realized. She was rattling off words in an entirely different language, speaking at a rapid pace with an equally rapid flurry of hand motions. Upon seeing her in the doorway, the woman gave her a polite wave and a lifted finger. 

“…I’m done discussing this. I have to go, my next meeting just got here.” Hanging up without nary a goodbye, Galinda huffed a breath of air and properly turned to face her. She smiled, though it was terse at best. “Elphie, hi. What can I do for you?” 

“Just making sure you’re alright.” 

“Oh?” Galinda tilted her head, her brows furrowing. This caused the woman to wince as she was forced to relax her face, the emotion held in her lips instead. “Did something happen to make you worried?” 

“I think you should invest in an electric gate for the driveway or something,” Elphaba noted blandly, stepping over the threshold as Galinda waved her in. “There was an unmarked van outside by the curb.” 

“Ah yes. That. I see them all the time.” 

“All the time?” 

“I don’t know who they work for, but I have a hunch.” 

“Oz?” 

“He has people watching my every move and reporting back to him, just to know what’s happening with the trust.” 

“Are you sure that’s the reason?” Elphaba wondered. “Or is he watching you?” 

“I’d rather not think about it, to be perfectly honest,” the woman chirped, removing her earpiece and rubbing her temple. She looked a bit too weary on her feet, her shoulders curved as they slumped. 

“Are you ok, Galinda?” 

“Fine. Fine. Just a bit of a headache. But that’s a constant these days, I think,” she replied, perching at the edge of her desk. Elphaba stepped forward, maneuvering herself in front of Galinda and leaning over. Carefully she tilted the other woman’s head, checking the slowly spreading bruise seeping from beneath the cotton patch. “Do I look horrendible, Miss Elphaba?” 

“Just a little bruised. I’m going to take the cotton off. This might pull a little.” 

Galinda didn’t fuss as Elphaba peeled medical tape from her sore forehead. The cut looked worse than it actually was in the moment; it was a shallow scratch at best. She just wondered if that had been the goal, or if the window had slowed the rock down more than the attacker was expecting. 

“You’re thinking very loudly,” Galinda noted, causing Elphaba to blink. She still had her fingertips resting against the other woman’s cheek, feeling the soft skin with a featherlight touch. 

“I’m worried about you.” 

“Hmm. Don’t be.” Galinda averted her eyes, a familiar sadness resting on her features. “I’m fine.” 

“I wish you’d take this seriously.” 

“I am. I did. But no one cares. They care about what’s in my pockets and nothing else.” 

“I care,” Elphaba told her, rubbing her thumb gently across Galinda’s cheek. “You know I care. Which means I’m telling you to invest in better security. If not for yourself, then for me.” 

This caused the blonde to look up. Her eyes widened a bit, the brown depths sparking. 

“Do you not feel safe?” 

“Not with unmarked vans hanging around and people throwing rocks at glass windows.” Galinda ruffled herself, immediately reaching back for her phone. But Elphaba stopped her with a hand. “Tomorrow, though.” 

“But…?” 

“It’s getting late. Go rest for a little. I’ll make dinner.” 

“But the kids…?” 

“I’ll handle it. That’s what you pay me for, right?” 

“Ah…r—right, of course.” Galinda nodded hastily, as though she’d completely forgotten Elphaba was technically getting paid to live in her house. Reaching back for her phone again, Elphaba quickly snatched it up before she could touch it. “Elphie!” 

“Resting doesn’t require a phone. I’ll watch it and let you know if there’s an emergency.”

“Oh…fine.” Galinda slumped, clearly not in a fighting mood. “I swear, I’ll never be able to get any work done with you around.” 

Elphaba quirked her lip with a chuckle, brushing an errant hair from Galinda’s face as she pouted. “That’s the plan, Miss Galinda. That’s the plan.” 

Chapter Text

Being woken up by a shriek was never a good thing. 

Sitting up in bed as the sound pierced through her dozing sleep, Elphaba didn’t hesitate. As a mom, she knew full well that seconds could be the difference between throwing up in the bed vs in a wastebasket. Ripping off the covers, she hurdled across the bedroom and out into the hall.

“Galinda!” 

No answer. The door to the guest bedroom was wide open, meaning (once again) her roommate wasn’t where she was supposed to be. Seeing as the washroom at the other side of the house was ominously dark, Elphaba turned to the kitchen instead. The lights were on but only halfway, creating a dim, golden flicker in the night. The barstools were on the floor as though pulled over in haste, creating a hazard as Elphaba maneuvered around them. Galinda stood in nothing but her nightclothes, the back of her tank top dark with perspiration. The blonde had both arms shoved into the sink, water running with enough strength to rival a power washer.  

“Galinda?” Approaching, Galinda didn’t look up at being addressed. She was viciously scrubbing her skin, terrified whimpers and cries passing between her lips. “Galinda, stop.” The water was billowing hot steam, while long nail marks traveled from wrist to inner elbow. Galinda’s arms were bright red from being scrubbed raw, while the back of her knuckles had split. Elphaba’s heart skipped a beat as she got closer. “You’re hurting yourself.” 

“No! No, no…I can’t…I can’t get it off! It’s on me!” 

“What’s on you?” 

“I can’t get it off!” Galinda’s lungs choked on a sob, her scrubbing only getting more desperate as her hands shook under the boiling water. “I can’t…it’s going to—to stain!” 

“There’s nothing there,” Elphaba insisted, slowly reaching over to turn the hot water down to something safer. 

“There’s so much blood, Elphie,” Galinda whimpered, still washing her hands in the now lukewarm tap. “It’s on me. It’s on me.” 

“There’s nothing on you.” Wrapping an arm around the smaller woman’s waist, Elphaba gently began to pull her away from the sink. She resisted at first, squealing unhappily as her arms slipped from under the steam. “Galinda, come on.” 

“No! I can’t…” 

Elphaba didn’t give up, even as Galinda rolled her shoulders to jostle her off. She kept pulling the woman backwards until they were fully away from danger. This seemed to break the spell as Galinda’s knees buckled from under her. She was on the floor in a second, heaving desperately as she pushed herself against the side of the island and quivered. Hurrying to shut off the sink and grab a towel, Elphaba knelt and wrapped the woman’s raw forearms in the cloth, patting the rashy skin dry.

“See? There’s nothing there, Galinda. You’re clean.” 

“But…but it was…it was just there!” 

“You’re exhausted. Your mind is playing tricks on you.” 

“I held him, Elphie. I…it was there.” 

Glancing up curiously, Galinda’s eyes had taken on a glossy sheen. She seemed dazed and far away as her chest rose and fell rapidly, but with little air coming in or out.

“What?” 

“It took so long,” Galinda whispered, tears still streaming down her face. “They had to cut apart the car to get them out. Hours and hours. They took the door off first so I could hold him. There was so much blood. I…it was…horrible, and warm, a-and my hands…” Galinda opened her palms, her bony fingers badly protruding from the paper mache skin. “I couldn’t abandon my husband. I couldn’t abandon my daughter. Peaches was in a coma…and Westin…I only got to see his beautiful eyes one last time before…” Galinda’s voice choked, pulling into herself as she whimpered. “There was just…so—so much blood, Elphie.” 

“It was a nightmare,” Elphaba reassured, though it felt weak at best. This wasn’t just any nightmare and she knew it. Galinda’s reality was far worse than any common terror. Liir had them all the time; the crying and need to be held was familiar to her as a parent. She knew how to handle nightmares. 

But the faraway gaze in Galinda’s eyes, her inability to breathe, and having to pull her away from hurting herself with something as mundane as the sink? Elphaba knew it was more. She knew it deep in her soul. Her father had similar episodes sometimes, having spent half his life in the Ozian military. He carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, and sometimes the horrors of his youth seeped from his skull like poison.  

Father got angry during these times. Violent and unrecognizable. She and Nessa knew better than to get in his way when he had that thousand-yard-stare. Thankfully Galinda wasn’t that way, though it didn’t make it any better. She was terrified; debilitated by grief and the memory of being covered in her own husband's blood as she watched him die. She was fighting a war that Elphaba couldn’t see. 

“I’m here. I’m with you.” Elphaba didn’t know what else to say. What could she say? “What do you need?” 

“I just want my husband,” Galinda croaked, curling into a ball like a small child as she sobbed, trembled and hyperventilated on the kitchen floor. She looked so small and lost like this, barely illuminated by the flickering of the golden lights. “I can’t do this anymore. I can’t. I can't…” 

Elphaba exhaled deeply, glancing around the kitchen. What could she do? Leaving Galinda where she was—hoping to Lurline she wouldn’t run back to the sink—Elphaba looked around for something (for anything) that could help. Stopping in the hall to glance towards the kids rooms, an idea struck her. When her and Fiyero’s divorce was still fresh, she struggled to sleep alone for a few weeks. Liir was even worse, crying over the loss of his father. Wearing one of her ex’s old sweatshirts had helped them both sleep despite Fiyero’s absence. Maybe that could help Galinda to? Pivoting and hurrying towards the other end of the house, Elphaba looked up at the closed master bedroom door. 

It felt like she was intruding, but she didn’t know what else to do. 

Turning the knob and stepping inside, Elphaba flicked on the light. Having gotten used to the white walls of Galinda’s guest room, the sight of a very lived-in space made her head spin. The shared bed was still messy from being slept in, while there were dirty men’s clothes in the hamper. At the wooden vanity, makeup and hair tools had been left to collect dust, alongside bottles of hair gel and cologne. Photos of Galinda, Westin, and Peaches covered every inch of wall space along with hand drawn pictures, awards, or trinkets from vacations. 

This was the bedroom of a family now torn apart, and just being in it made Elphaba’s gut twist uncomfortably. No wonder Galinda hadn’t entered this room. She couldn’t even imagine how quickly it would send the woman into a state of collapse. 

Shaking off the weird haunted feelings, Elphaba dug through the laundry hamper, shifting and tugging at articles of clothing until she found a gray sweatshirt way too big to be Galinda’s and a big black t-shirt with some sort of emblem on it. Tossing the things over her shoulder, she went to the vanity, spritzing the slightest bit of cologne onto her wrists and rubbing them across her neck and chest. Shuffling into the shirt, Elphaba closed the bedroom door when she left, returning to Galinda who hadn’t moved a muscle. 

Crouching down, she urged the woman into the sweatshirt, pulling it over her head and carefully threading her arms through the too-long sleeves. Without hesitation Elphaba grabbed her bridal style, hauling her frail, shivering figure off the ground. She thought briefly about returning Galinda to the guest bedroom, but the sheets were probably a mess of sweat and the remnants of a horrible nightmare. So she went to her own room instead, not bothering with the light as she set Galinda down on the side of the mattress she wasn’t using. 

Already, the sweatshirt seemed to be doing what she needed it to. Galinda wasn’t quaking quite so violently anymore, while she’d ducked her face down into the fabric and vanished like a turtle into the folds. Her eyes were still filled with tears and the knuckles on her hands still blistered from being violently scrubbed, but that was a worry for tomorrow. Setting her glasses on the side table, Elphaba tossed the blankets over Galinda before sitting on top of them, keeping a barrier between them. 

It didn’t take more than a minute though for her companion to roll over, gripping onto Westin’s shirt and pressing her nose into the skin just above Elphaba’s clavicle. She fought not to hiccup in surprise at the sudden intimacy, not wanting to ruin what little peace Galinda had found, surrounded by her husband’s scent for the first time in months. Her shaking quickly halted, as did the tears and the whimpering. The notch permanently carved into Galinda’s brow relaxed as she sighed, nuzzling closer to the ghost of her beloved. 

Elphaba knew she wouldn’t be sleeping much with the other woman clinging onto her arm like a python, but didn’t much care as she awkwardly bent her other arm to tuck it behind her head. She was tracing patterns on the ceiling with her eyes, blinking and glancing down a little as a very soft breath of air released from Galinda’s lungs. 

She was asleep. 

Exhaling a deep breath for herself, Elphaba was resigned to being up all night. But as she closed her eyes, tiredness crashed down on her like a wave. She was in complete darkness until the creaking of a door reached her ears, alerting her to someone entering the bedroom. Eyes fluttering open, she was distinctly aware of a weight now resting on her chest. Galinda was still fast asleep, knocked into oblivion as her back rose and fell deeper and steadier than Elphaba had really seen before. She could only assume that with the pills, the woman slept in short increments, hence her tendency to be up and about again not long after crashing out. 

This was the first time Elphaba woke up and had Galinda still sleeping. It felt like a damn miracle. Tilting her head to see who had come into the bedroom, Liir stood in the doorway. His brown hair was tousled and he looked oddly awake despite his dinosaur pajamas. Behind him in the hall, a little face with blonde hair peeked inside too. Peaches and Liir were both up already? Puzzled, Elphaba craned her neck to see the clock. 

9:00 AM? Shit. 

“Mom?” 

“…hi bub.” Offering her one free arm, Elphaba urged Liir closer. She held a finger to her lips for him to speak quietly, ruffling the boy’s curls. 

“I’m late for school,” Liir grumbled, seemingly none too pleased about having to admit it, but reminding her anyway. She smiled at his honesty, reaching up to cradle his cheek. 

“That’s ok. I’ll call you out later.” 

“Really?” Liir’s eyes brightened, but Elphaba quickly shushed him as Galinda shifted on her chest, only to fall right back asleep. 

“If I let you stay home, you have to take care of Peaches for me. Her mom isn’t feeling very well. Deal?” 

“Deal. Can you make breakfast?” 

“Not right now,” Elphaba admitted, unwilling to move with Galinda finally asleep, even if it was pinning her down. “There’s cereal bars and fruit snacks in the first cupboard. You can both have one of each. Can you handle that?” 

Liir nodded, glancing at Elphaba for a long moment, then at Galinda. He didn’t say anything, but something was ticking in that kid-brain of his. Whatever it was, Liir didn’t voice it. He turned, moving to leave the bedroom. 

“Liir.” 

“Yeah?” 

“Don’t leave the house and keep the doors locked. Stay in the living room where I can hear you.” 

“Ok, mom.“ Watching the boy vanish, Peaches lingered a moment in the doorway, leaning forward silently on her crutches. Now that Elphaba had noticed her head scar, it was much more obvious in her pale blonde hair. Offering a hand to the girl, she easily swung over the threshold. It was incredible how silent she could be despite her crutches, seeing as she could be very noisy when galloping at full speed. The child paused at the edge of the bed, leaning up a bit on her heels to better see her mom’s sleeping figure. 

Elphaba wished she could talk to Peaches. To reassure her that her mom was fine (even if she wasn’t). But the blonde was very intuitive and immediately relaxed, accepting the finger Elphaba tapped against her nose instead with a smile. Happy and content with both of them being safe in the bedroom, Peaches left to follow Liir into the kitchen. Elphaba strained to hear the two clattering around, no doubt making a mess. She could only sigh a bit at the thought of having to clean up later. But for now, Galinda was still deep asleep. 

And Elphaba wasn’t moving a muscle until she woke up.

Chapter Text

Elphaba was worried about Galinda. 

Well…at this point she was always worried about Galinda? But she was more worried than usual; an 8/10 if it were to be measured on a scale. The blonde was so energetic, only kept down for a few minutes before she was up again doing this or that thing. The woman was a spinning top. She’d go for a long time, constantly bumping into obstacles, only to bounce off and go hurling in a different direction. But physics demanded that all forces eventually succumb to gravity, no matter how fast or hard the object moved. Last night was a catalyst, apparently, and Galinda’s spin had finally died out. 

A collapse was just waiting to happen. 

Galinda hadn’t moved despite the quickly passing daylight, and Elphaba was eventually forced to maneuver out from under her. To pee, for one thing, but also to change and fix lunch for the kids. She expected to be followed, seeing as the slightest noise could disturb Galinda’s sleep. But she never appeared. Elphaba heard the woman shuffle around (maybe) once to use the bathroom, only to immediately return to bed and go quiet again. Elphaba should’ve been happy that Galinda was finally choosing to let herself rest. But not having to force it was suddenly very weird and very, very concerning. 

“Mom?” 

Elphaba glanced up from her skillet of grilled cheese, trying to fix her face to hide the deep frown wilting her lips. Liir and Peaches waited at the kitchen table for their meal, though the little blonde girl was constantly glancing down the hall. She was waiting for her mom to come out, meaning Galinda not appearing was indeed unusual. 

“Yeah bud?” 

“Is Miss Galinda ok?” 

Elphaba pursed her lips, flipping the bread so it properly toasted. “I don’t know.” 

“Is she sick?” 

“Kinda.” 

“I don’t like being sick,” Liir noted blandly, in the process of lining up dinosaur shaped fruit snacks along his plate. Peaches watched him, but she seemed more jittery than usual. Her coloring had been abandoned for anxious hair chewing instead. Elphaba had already pulled blonde locks from her mouth at least three times, eventually resorting to braiding it back instead. Liir continued despite her thoughtful silence. “Are you going to bring her a sandwich?” 

“Yeah. I’ll make sure she eats.” 

“Extra cheese?” 

Elphaba chuckled and tilted her head. “Extra cheese,” she agreed, sliding a few more triangles onto plastic plates. As she served up the midday meal, Galinda’s cell began to ring in her back pocket. Groaning in exasperation, Elphaba knew who it was before she even picked up the phone. Pfannee and Shenshen must’ve been car salesmen in another life based on how much they called needing things. And half of those things weren’t even that important. Elphaba had taken it upon herself to be useful while Galinda was indisposed, but she fully underestimated how much the phone actually rang in a single day. 

Again, it was mostly just dumb bitch #1 and dumb bitch #2, asking to use the company credit card for something like communal coffee filters. But also other more important calls which Elphaba took detailed messages for. She slid into the device, tucking it between her shoulder and ear. 

“Mrs. Upland’s phone, this is her secretary Ms. Thropp speaking.” 

“Miss Thropp? Why do you still have Galinda’s phone?” Pfannee sounded peeved, his nasally voice a pitch higher than usual in irritation. Being cordial had long since been abandoned after the third call of the morning (which had been hours ago). “Where is she?” 

“I told you, she’s currently away from work and will call you back if there is an emergency.” 

“Well this is an emergency!” 

“Then I’ll take a message.” 

“She’s never been away from us this long,” Pfannee fretted nervously. “Has something happened?” 

“Nothing that’s any of your business,” Elphaba replied dryly. “So am I taking another message? Or can you and sunshine put your heads together to solve your own problem?” 

“You’re not very nice, you know that?” 

“I’ve been told. Bye, Pfannee.” Hanging up before the boy could reply, Elphaba ladeled up bowls of tomato soup, setting them down alongside the sandwiches. “Eat up. Don’t make a mess.” 

Liir grinned, turning to Peaches who glanced at him in return. The hand motion her son made caused Elphaba to pause. It was a simple movement, one that could’ve been mistaken for something else. But it seemed very distinct; a thumb to the bottom of the forefingers, brought to his lips in an eating motion. Tilting her head curiously, Peaches made the same motion back to him, followed by a quick giggle. 

“Liir?” 

“Huh?” 

“What was that?” 

“What was what?” 

“That.” Elphaba made the hand sign. “What is that?” 

“That’s how Peaches says food,” Liir laughed, kicking his feet. Elphaba nodded her understanding, but furrowed her brows as she finished up a lunch plate for Galinda. 

“Was that in the book I got you?” 

“No. Peaches teaches me her words sometimes,” Liir admitted with a shrug. “It’s super easy.” 

“Oh. Well…that’s good. Stay here and eat and you can have a sweet afterwards. I’m going to talk to Miss Galinda real quick. Don’t leave this table.” 

“We won’t, mom.” 

Reassured that the kids weren’t going anywhere, Elphaba exhaled deeply as she tucked the plate of food into her elbow to keep from dropping it. Making her way down the hall, the door to her bedroom was still slightly ajar. It was dark inside despite it being almost noon, the curtains still closed and the lights off. Knocking on the doorframe with her knuckle, Elphaba pushed her way inside. The lump tangled amongst the green sheets hadn’t moved very much. Again, deeply worrying. Not bothering with the lights, Elphaba used her foot to turn on the floor lamp instead, casting the dark bedroom in a faint golden shine. Galinda shifted, rolling over onto her back and pulling her face out from the covers. Her dark eyes were swollen and crusty with old tears, while her lips were red and puckered from licking them. 

“Elphie?” 

“Hey, Miss Popular.” Giving her very best smile, Elphaba set the plate of food down on the nightstand. “Brought you some lunch.” 

“...thank you.” Sitting at the side of the bed, Galinda groaned a little as she moved to sit up, only getting halfway before she gave up and rested on her bent elbows instead. “I’m sorry, Elphaba.” 

“For what? You have nothing to be apologizing for.” 

“I’m pathetic,” Galinda hissed under her breath. “Can’t even keep myself together enough to sleep through the night. I tried so hard to…” Galinda paused, cutting off her words. She didn’t finish her sentence, but Elphaba had a feeling it was something that needed to be said. 

“You tried to what, Galinda? You can tell me.” 

“It’s because of you,” the woman croaked, her expression that of deep shame and embarrassment. “I didn’t want you to see me this way. I tried so hard to hide it, because I knew it would scare you. And it did. So…I’m sorry.” 

“Galinda, no. No, no, please tell me you haven’t been bottling yourself up for our sake.” Elphaba shifted to sit against the headboard, allowing her hand to gently find the curve of Galinda’s shoulder under the oversized sweatshirt. “You’re allowed to fall apart in your own home. If anything, it should be me apologizing. For invading your space when you’ve just lost so much.” 

“But I wanted you here,” Galinda argued. “I…I do want you here, Elphie. It’s just so ugly what all of this has done to me.” The blonde woman flopped back down into the pillows, completely seeped of her energy as her dark lashes fluttered. 

“I don’t think there’s anything that could make you ugly, Miss Upland,” Elphaba mumbled, finding a lock of blonde hair and twirling it around her fingertip. Seeing a glisten as tears began to seep from beneath charcoal lashes, she moved her hand to catch them, swiping the diamonds from swollen pink skin. “You are grieving. But I’m worried about you.” 

“I wish you wouldn’t.” 

“Too late.” Elphaba gave a reassuring smile, but it was more for herself than for Galinda as she summoned up the courage to say what had been rolling around in her brain for hours. “What happened last night?” 

“Elphie…” 

“I know you don’t want to talk about it. I understand. But please, tell me anyway?” 

Galinda hesitated for a lingering beat; so long Elphaba thought perhaps she’d completely shut down. But the blonde just inhaled and exhaled deeply, her lungs rattling with strain. “I was there again,” she whispered. “At the scene. I couldn’t…I…there was nothing I could do, Elphie. Nothing. I couldn’t wake up, because the nightmare is real. I can’t escape it; not for a single second.” 

“How often does it happen like that?” More silence. Galinda’s eyes flickered away, staring into the sheets as she pulled the blankets up over her head. Elphaba immediately tugged them back down. “Galinda, answer me.” 

“I…I can’t sleep for more than a few hours at a time,” the woman croaked. “Any longer and I start to see things. It happens every time; over and over again. That’s why I needed the pills. They keep me focused so I don’t have to sleep; they keep the memories away. They make things easier.” 

“Galinda, that’s not normal,” Elphaba urged, still wiping tears from the other woman’s face as she wept. “My father had moments too, just like last night. He was in the military, sent over-desert to fight in the Ozian-Ev war in his youth. He saw things; horrible things. And when he came back, he kept those things so close to his chest that it changed him.” 

“What are you saying, Miss Elphaba?” 

“He hit us. Nessa and I. Well…mostly just me.” Elphaba scowled at the thought, but shook her head as Galinda stared up at her with her huge, bulging brown eyes. Even in this disheveled state, she was still disarmingly pretty. 

“That’s awful,” the woman croaked. “But I would never…” 

“I know that,” Elphaba said in a hurry. “What I’m saying, Galinda, is that this isn’t just grief. It won’t go away on its own or fade with time. This is trauma–real trauma–and it’s killing you, just like it killed my father. You’re crumbling under all this pressure: taking care of Peaches, the trust, Westin? All of it. And eventually pills and wine aren’t going to be able to hold those pieces together anymore. Do you understand me?” 

“I’ll…I’ll just rest more…?” 

“You can’t rest if you can barely close your eyes without fear of what you might see,” Elphaba told her. “When Nessa died, I was the worst version of myself. I’m certainly not proud of it. I was angry, belligerent, cold-hearted and unwilling to accept that it wasn’t my fault. It drove a wedge between Fiyero and I which ended in divorce. It’s my fault that Liir has to now live between us.” 

“You’re not that way now,” Galinda pointed out. “You‘re better.” 

“I didn’t get that way alone. I went home to Munchkinland to have Liir; my old nanny was kind enough to be my nursemaid despite my being disowned. While I was there, I got the help I didn’t even know I needed from an old acquaintance. His name is Doctor Turtleheart; I guess you could call him an uncle of sorts. He was the field medic my Father fought with in the war. But he specializes in this sort of thing.” 

“This thing being…?” 

“Post-traumatic stress.” 

“I don’t need that kind of help,” Galinda complained sharply, her face crumbling into something akin to irritation, but too tired to hold any real malice. “I’m not crazy.” 

“I never said that.” 

“My parents always told me that those types of people were frauds and cheats who pinched pennies from the gullible.” 

“He’s a good man and he knows what he’s doing.” 

“No, Elphie.” 

“What about Peaches?” Galinda’s eyes snapped open, her mouth dropping in a gape of surprise as Elphaba pushed further. “What if–someday–something serious happens during one of those nightmares and you get hurt.” Pulling back the blankets, Elphaba took Galinda’s hand to show off her still water-burned knuckles. “What do you think seeing her mom like this would do to her? What do you think seeing you like this is doing to her now? She’s scared for you Galinda; she’s been waiting for you all morning. Any longer and she might not have any hair left, she’s been chewing it so much.” 

“Why didn’t you wake me?” 

“Because you collapsed last night. You broke. I was there; I saw it happen. Peaches isn’t the only one scared for you, ok? I am too. And you’re just…” Elphaba huffed, reeling in her emotions. Now wasn’t the time to be diving into a passionate speech. “Galinda, please. Please, let me help you. Stop being so stubborn.” 

“I…what if it doesn’t work?” Galinda’s eyes started to water as she slowly sat up in bed, tiny in her late husband's clothes looking nothing short of death. “What if we do all this and it does nothing? What then?” 

“We keep trying; whatever it takes to get some of this weight off your shoulders. You’re not shaking me away, Galinda Upland. Not now. Not when I know I can do something this time.” Elphaba didn’t mean to let the last part slip. But with it already out in the open now, she continued with the line of thought anyway. “Galinda, I don’t want you to end up like my sister did. Too young with the entire world pressing down on you until there’s nothing left. Please. If not for Peaches, then do it for me.” 

There was a beat of silence; than two. Galinda seemed to be thinking about it, though was distracted as the door to the bedroom creaked open. A familiar pair of cobalt eyes shone through the darkness, hands tightly clenched around her crutches. There were tears in those eyes, perhaps at being left without her mom for multiple hours. 

“Oh, honey.” Galinda’s face fell as she signed something to her daughter. The little one didn’t bother with a response, crossing the room and practically throwing herself onto the bed like a mini-projectile. She fit perfectly into her mom’s arms, curling up into a ball and vanishing from sight as Elphaba’s lips wilted. 

Galinda wasn’t the only one who needed to talk to someone. 

“Ok.” 

“What?” Glancing up from her thoughts, Elphaba was struck by how Galinda was now looking at her. Her brows softened and her lips turned upwards, chin resting on the crown of her daughter's head. 

“I can’t do this anymore, Elphaba,” she repeated softly, petting her fingers through Peaches' pale, messy curls. “I’ll talk to this Doctor. But please don’t leave me with him.” 

“I wouldn’t dare,” Elphaba nodded, reaching out to take Galinda’s hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze. “I’m right here. Whatever you need, just like I promised.”

Chapter Text

“…why are you mad at me, Elphaba?” 

“Why am I mad at you?” Elphaba was steaming out the ears as she paced the porch, trying not to raise her voice any more lest the neighbors hear. “Fiyero, you’re being an idiot.” 

“Me an idiot? I think you’re the one being unreasonable here. I only just found another job, I still don’t have my own place, and suddenly I get told I need to start paying $500 a month?” 

“Yes. That's what we agreed on, it’s right there in the paperwork.” 

“What am I paying so much for when you got this fancy new job? You have enough money now. If anything, you should be helping me get back on my feet.” 

“Helping you!” Elphaba stopped briefly, pulling the phone away from her ear to yell into it. “You better be fucking joking right now, Fiyero. This money isn’t for me, it’s for Liir. Your son. Or have you forgotten.” 

“But Elphaba…” 

“No. No ‘but’s’. You pay what we agreed or I swear, I will go back to the court and fight for full custody and you will never see your son again.” 

“…you wouldn’t do that.” 

“Watch me. Clearly you’re not interested in supporting him. I’d rather deal with his tantrums every day then you not wanting to support a kid that you helped create besides the occasional fun thing.” 

“That’s not fair.” 

“Life isn’t fair, you bum. It takes two to tango, Fiyero. I’m not alone in the blame for this. $500 a month, no contest, just like we agreed. Or I’ll dig this all up again and you’ll really think I’m unreasonable. Am I clear?” 

“Yeah. Crystal.” 

There was a click on the other end of the line as Fiyero hung up, leaving her on the phone with no one. Elphaba screamed a little in the back of her throat, resisting the urge to kick something as she shoved her phone into her pocket. Insufferable man. The morning had already been an absolute nightmare; his stupid whining was just the icing on the cake. She’d woken up late, meaning her battle with Liir had been particularly turbulent. Add to that a new breakout of her eczema which was searing down her back like a wildfire, things had been downright awful. 

She had to practically carry her son to school in nothing but biker shorts and a tank top, speeding just to be on time and not get fined for truancy. Again. The itching though was driving her absolutely crazy, her fingers unconsciously shoving under her braids to scratch the dry, scaly patches. She’d been rubbing and shifting against the front seat for some relief, twisting and turning herself to try and reach the spots that festered the most. Something she knew well not to do. But this morning had been a bad one, meaning a bit of itching was the last thing on her mind. 

At least the house was quiet now. The air smelled faintly of vanilla and rose, one of Galinda’s favorite scents, while the radio played a classical station on low. After all, Galinda didn’t have to blast kids-music 24-7 since Peaches couldn’t hear, while the child barely made any noise besides the clattering of her crutches or the stomping of little feet. That shred of envy flickered to life in Elphaba’s gut again, but she quickly pushed it down. 

Not everything was as it seemed here, after all. 

Dropping the SUV keys in a brass dish near the front door, she paused in the open entry to the kitchen. As expected, Galinda was sitting at the island, bent with the worst posture over her laptop as she furiously typed. She looked tired—as she usually did—her blonde hair messily thrown up in a claw clip that caused the corn-gold locks to go flying in every direction. Peaches wasn’t with her at the table, though the remnants of her were. A dirty dish with half a burnt piece of toast, a peeled tangerine, and a cup of long-gone orange juice. 

Elphaba immediately felt guilty for not having time to make a proper breakfast, meaning Galinda probably hadn’t eaten, while Peaches got very singed bread and a piece of fruit. Thank god her mom didn’t burn the house down. Pivoting to go back to her own room—planning to shower and properly dress for the day—there was a clatter behind her shoulder. 

“Elphaba!” 

Galinda’s sudden note of panic made her jump. She whipped around, eyes wide, heart leaping at the thought of danger. 

“What?” 

“You’re bleeding!” Galinda pushed away from her barstool with a scrape, her work forgotten. Elphaba blinked in confusion, twisting her head to try and look at her shoulders. She hadn’t scratched it that much, had she? 

“Am I?” 

“What happened?”  

“It’s just my eczema—?”

“It could be the plague!” 

Elphaba immediately rolled her eyes. “It’s not the plague.” 

“Well how would I know that if you don’t let me look? Now stop moving.” 

“Yes, ma’am.” 

Rolling her shoulders uncomfortably as Galinda grabbed the bottom of her tank top, the peeling of fabric from rash-ridden flesh made her want to scream. Ow. Ow. Ow. 

“Oh, Elphie.” Galinda’s little gasp told Elphaba all she needed to know. Breakouts weren’t a pretty sight, especially not after she’d lost her willpower to not scratch it. 

“Is it bad?” 

“This looks so painful.” 

Elphaba inhaled sharply as the ghost of fingers traced the interior of her shoulder blade just under her bra-strap. The thing was probably melded to her skin from the amount of rubbing she’d been doing. It was impossible to hide her discomfort, a low hiss whistling through her teeth. “This could get infected. Come with me.” 

“Galinda…” 

“Shush. No talking until we get this handled.” 

“But—?” 

“Elphaba, zip-it.” Making a motion across her lips with a hand, Galinda grabbed Elphaba’s wrist, pulling her towards the bathroom. “Take off your shirt.” 

Opening her mouth to complain—she really didn’t need help with this—Galinda gave her a challenging look. Argue and see what happens. Wilting under that brown-eyed stare, Elphaba scowled but grabbed the underside of her tank-top, shedding it in the chilliness of the bathroom. 

“Oh, sweet Lurline, it’s all over you.” 

Elphaba blinked, staring down at her exposed stomach. The patches had already spread, encroaching over her sides and under her waistband. It didn’t itch yet, but just looking at the dry skin made her twitchy. 

“I didn’t even notice.” 

“What causes this?” 

“Erm, nothing specific. Weather, how much I sweat, extra stress? Could be a lot of things.” 

Galinda’s brows furrowed a little at that, her hands nervously intertwining as she pursed her lips. “What can I do to help?” 

“There’s a bottle of steroid cream in the drawer and the lotion in the cupboard.” Galinda fetched the things without question, setting them out on the counter beside the sink. “You don’t have to stay, Miss Popular. I’ve been dealing with this my entire life.” 

“It’s all over your back, Elphie. Just…turn around.” 

Wagging her well-manicured finger, Elphaba sighed deeply and swiveled on the closed toilet seat, leaning her arms on the tank. “I’m going to undo your bra strap if that’s alright? This looks terribly uncomfortable.” 

“Yeah. Just be gentle, ok?” 

“I will. I’ll be really quick.” 

When Galinda said ‘really quick’, Elphaba thought she’d just work hastily. Not that she’d swiftly remove her bra in a single hand motion; one fast enough to make Elphaba suddenly blush. It was a very specific skill; one that made her curious. Her tongue was loose this morning as she asked: “Have you slept with women before?” 

Elphaba immediately hit herself. Stupid. Why would she ask that? Galinda just chuckled, tossing the bra aside as she smeared some steroid onto her fingertips. 

“How’d you guess?” 

“Wait? You mean you have slept with women?” 

“I had a few flings in college,” Galinda admitted, her fingers gently dabbing at Elphaba’s back. “I was a touch wild in my youth.” 

“You’re not that old.” 

“I’m almost thirty,” the blonde whispered, physically trembling at the thought. “More than halfway, good gods. I’ll be seeing gray hair any day.” 

“I don’t think you could ever not look good, Miss Upland.” 

“Careful or someone might think you’re flirting,” Galinda mused, halting her progress as she shed her light jacket into her own pink tanktop and wrinkled her nose. “This stuff is horrendible.” 

“I know, but it does the job. I can only be grateful that Liir didn’t inherit it; these creams can make you bankrupt.” 

“Not in this house it wont,” Galinda mumbled, intently focused on her work as she dabbed and worked her hands down Elphaba’s shoulders, not seeming to care about the blood or dried skin. “I hope you don’t mind my asking, Miss Elphaba, but who were you talking to just now?” 

“That would be my ex-husband,” Elphaba scoffed, rolling her eyes a little. “Fiyero’s being stubborn about child support.” 

“Do you need money?” 

“No. And I wouldn’t take it even if you offered,” Elphaba insisted, causing Galinda to pout a little. “It’s not really about the money. It’s about the principle. He should be supporting his son in more ways than just being the ‘fun dad’.” 

“I agree.” 

“He’ll come around. Fiyero’s a bum but he’s a good guy at his core. My turn to ask a question. The other day on the phone, who were you talking to?” 

“That?” Galinda seemed to hesitate briefly in her answer. “Oh…um…?” 

“You don’t have to tell me if it’s private.” 

“N—no, no. It’s just Oz being himself.” 

Elphaba stiffened at the mention of Oscar Diggs, turning to glance at Galinda over her shoulder. 

“Why are you talking to that creep on the phone?” 

“Relax, Elphie. I wasn’t speaking to him.” 

“Oh. Then who were you talking to? I couldn’t understand a word.” 

“You certainly wouldn’t unless you knew Gillikinese,” Galinda laughed, switching the topical steroid for the lotion as she began to gently massage Elphaba’s back, causing her lashes to flutter. “That was the man who manages my late parents' estate back home. Oscar planted a worm in his ear with some absurdly high amount of money to buy it. He thought I’d be interested.” 

“I didn’t know you were from Gillikin,” Elphaba mumbled in curiosity. “Pretty place.” 

“Hmm. I’m from the Gillikinese islands, technically. Do you know where Frottica is?” 

“Not a clue.” 

“It’s in the Upper Uplands, just off mainland Gillikin. You can’t technically visit unless you’re a resident.” 

“Private place?” 

“More like highly traditional? Not big fans of foreigners being judgemental about their culture. Remember when I told you that Westin and I were an arranged marriage? I really do mean that literally. Our parents made the match and a dowry was paid, as is Gillikinese tradition.” 

“I’d kill myself before I let my father choose a husband for me,” Elphaba complained, rolling her eyes a little. “You’re lucky that your parents had good taste.” 

“Yes, I suppose I am. Either way, I’m not selling my parents estate in Frottica, especially not to Oscar.” 

“Glad to hear it,” Elphaba nodded, rolling her shoulders a little as Galinda removed her hands. 

“How are you feeling?” 

“Better. It’ll start itching again in a few hours. But for now? Better.” 

“It’s the least I can do,” Galinda mumbled quietly, rubbing her hands on her shirt as she suddenly went quiet. “I um…I didn’t properly thank you, you know. For the other night.” 

“You don’t need to thank me.” Elphaba said, turning around without much thought. She was still fully topless as Galinda blinked at her, quickly averted her eyes, and grabbed a towel instead. Covering herself up, Elphaba stood. “You know I’m just worried about you and Peaches. What happened really scared me. You not being worried about being stalked scares me.” 

“I know.” 

“So why have you stopped trying?” 

“I haven’t stopped trying,” Galinda said, rubbing the back of her neck wearily. “I will do whatever I can to protect Peaches. You and Liir too, now that this is your home as well.” 

“What about you, though?” 

Galinda just shrugged. “The least of my worries, I’m afraid.” 

“Your own well being should be your highest priority,” Elphaba complained, tilting her head and gently reaching out to touch the woman’s arm. “Why don’t you care?”

“I…I do care, Elphie. I do. But sometimes there’s just this numbness in me. Like nothing really matters at all. And then, without warning, it’ll just…” Galinda made a motion with her arms, trying to convey whatever it was she was feeling but without the proper words. “I try to hang on; to keep it all together as best I can for Peaches. I want things to be normal for her, and I much prefer being numb these days than feeling anything else.” 

“That’s not healthy.” 

“I know that too.”

Elphaba heaved a breath, knowing they would just be going in circles about this. Galinda was a recording playing on loop. She kept saying she knew…yet she didn’t seem to care. 

“You’ll still talk to Doctor Turtleheart?” 

“I said I would,” Galinda croaked, not seeming all that happy about it as she turned to grab the doorknob. This revealed her bare shoulder and Elphaba immediately gaped in surprise. 

“Is that a tattoo?” 

“Hmm? Oh! Yes.” Galinda chuckled, though it was tight in her chest as she shook off the somewhat heavy subject from before. “It’s old.” 

“What is it?” 

“That would be 11:14 in the Lurlinian Bible.” 

’Lead life pure, 

In the footsteps of Her we tread fond

We follow Her path unto peace and love 

Cherish Her, for She is home’   

“You’re faithful?” 

“I was brought into this world under Lurline, and I stand in her glory as my ancestors have for centuries,” Galinda noted. “Though, I’ll admit my relationship with my faith has been…strained, to say the least.” 

“I understand.” 

“And you?” 

“Hmm. An abomination to the house of the Unnamed God, according to my Father,” Elphaba shrugged, reaching out to unconsciously brush her thumb across the black ink, causing Galinda to practically tremble a little as she quickly pulled back. “Sorry.” 

“It’s alright.” 

“Did you eat this morning?” 

“Erm…” noticing how Galinda quickly skirted out the door to avoid the question, Elphaba hurried after her.  

“Answer the question.” 

The blonde waved her hand as though shooing the words away, but Elphaba quickly blocked her path, keeping her from leaving. “Galinda?” 

“Miss Elphaba, honestly,” the woman sighed, slumping in defeat. “Is the house still here?” 

“Yes.” 

“Then you have your answer. Now for goodness sake go put a shirt on.” 

Chapter Text

“Elphie, don’t look so nervous.” 

“I’m not nervous.” Elphaba shifted behind the wheel of the SUV, forcefully uncurling her pale knuckles from around the leather. Her back still stung from the mornings breakout, but she was too worked up to even think about scratching it. She couldn’t risk bleeding at a time like this. 

“Just relax, this isn’t an execution.” Galinda readied her mascara as she folded down her sunvisor, flicking open the mirror. “Do be gentle on the turns, darling. I don’t want to poke my eye out.” 

“If I don’t have to be nervous, why are you fixing your face?” 

“Because I don’t go out in public looking anything less than my best,” Galinda claimed. “You never know who you’ll meet or where a camera might be. I want every side to be my good side.” 

“Except when you’re sick, right?” Recalling how terrible Galinda had looked that rainy day in the diner, the woman’s glossy lips quirked in humor, revealing her dimple. 

“Very funny, Miss Elphaba. I don’t need to be reminded of that misstep, thank you.” 

“I just…what if Liir really just hates school? What if nothing works?” Elpbaba bit the inside of her cheek in thought, worry swirling in her gut. “I’m at the end of my rope here, Galinda. I don’t know how much more of this I can take before I rip my hair out.” 

“Children are odd,” Galinda noted factually, holding her eyes wide open in order to paint her false eyelashes. “But we must remember that they are merely little humans trying to make it in the world. Have you ever considered that Liir may not be cut out for the things school teaches?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“You went to University, didn’t you?” 

“For a little while.” 

“And you want Liir to go someday too?” 

“I…well…yeah, I guess.” Elphaba scrunched her brows. She’d never thought of it that way, but yes, she did want to see Liir successful in his education. Success in her brain equated to a degree. At least, that’s how her father saw success, meaning it’s all she’d really known growing up. Perhaps that's why her son’s behavior worried her so much. “I just don’t want him to end up in jail.” 

“There are plenty of people in this world who didn’t go to college and are successful,” Galinda continued, blinking a few times to check her eyes as she capped her makeup with a click. “If this school doesn’t work out, then perhaps we should try getting Liir interested in a trade.” 

“A trade?” 

“Yes. Something non-traditional and exciting. Perhaps basket weaving?” 

Elphaba threw back her head with a groan. “Galinda.” 

The blonde just laughed a little, her nose scrunching in a smile. “I’m just joking, Miss Elphaba. You’re wound up like a spring, my goodness.” 

“I just want this to go well,” Elphaba sighed, rolling her fingers along the steering wheel again. Glancing in the rearview mirror, Peaches had fallen asleep in her booster seat, still wearing her pair of pink headphones with a hand in a bag of animal crackers. “What do you think Peaches will be when she grows up?” 

“Oh, I’m sure she’ll be an artist of some kind,” Galinda sighed, flipping her visor back to its original position and elegantly crossing a leg. This exposed more of her thigh than usual, the hem of her neat white skirt matching the pale flesh. “She’s very talented, you know. Just not particularly academically inclined.” 

Elphaba forced herself to keep looking road; getting distracted by Galinda’s legs was absolutely not something she needed to be doing right now. At least not with a six-year-old in the car. “That’s a surprise,” she choked out, trying to sound as un-distracted as she could. “Peaches is very bright.” 

“She’s bright, but not an intellectual prodigy by any means,” Galinda shrugged. “And her spelling is atrocious.” 

It was Elphaba’s turn to chuckle. “Was she at least good while attending the school for the deaf? You know, before everything happened?” 

”Academically? Not particularly. Peaches tended to be uninterested in her classes. Her notebooks are full of everything except actual notes. I can't blame her when mine looked much the same in college. Westin said it wasn’t anything to worry about, but as a mother I can’t say it didn’t worry me a little. Behaviorally, Peaches was a star student. A proper Upland woman if I’ve ever seen one. We aren’t known for being shy.” 

“Hmm. You don’t say.” 

“Shush, you wicked thing,” Galinda chided, rifling around in her purse and removing a small metal tin. Popping it open, Elphaba tensed up at the little white pills rattling around inside. “They’re candy, Elphie, I promise.” Galinda tucked two into her mouth before closing the lid again. “Mints.” 

Elphaba hesitated, exhaling though her nostirils. “How are you doing with the detoxing?” 

“I’m miserable, thank you for asking.” Galinda scowled ahead of her, returning the mint tin to her purse. “The pills certainly helped with my energy levels. This up and down roller coaster is driving me insane.” 

“You look tired,” Elphaba noted softly, only for Galinda to huff. 

“I don’t every day?” 

“You’re still not sleeping well?” 

“I never do, Miss Elphaba. The day I sleep well is the day I’m dead or damn close to it.” Rolling her eyes, Galinda glanced at her phone as it pinged. “Remind me when we get home to start on my quarterly report, would you? I keep forgetting about it.” 

“Sure. Hopefully it’s not too long and you can get a nap in.” 

“Hmm. Seventy-two pages regarding the trust’s financial standing, an overview of physical and monetary assets, and a look over of the employee docket to see who’s underperforming enough to let go.” Galinda opened her hands, counting off fingers as she spoke. “I also have to give Pfannee a call to check up on the new support systems being put into place on the West Side, not to mention the annual tax write-off reports, PR management meeting, board of directors meeting, affiliate meeting…”

“Ok, ok, I got it. Lots of meetings.” 

“So many meetings,” Galinda whined, once again diving into her purse and grabbing her earpiece. “My consumer report meeting starts in ten minutes.” 

“Thank you for getting me this appointment,” Elphaba offered, swinging the wheel to pull into the parking lot of their destination. “I um…I appreciate it.” 

“Of course. I made a promise and I intend to keep it. Though to be perfectly honest, it’s the only part of that conversation I remember having.” 

“You were very drunk,” Elphaba laughed, throwing the SUV into park as she looked up at the school building. Already it was much nicer than Liir’s current one, with a well kept front walkway, clean windows, and a sign that wasn’t missing any letters. Elphaba jumped a little as a hand landed on her arm. Galinda’s narrow fingers smoothed her overcoat, flattening any wrinkles. 

“It’s going to be fine,” the woman reassured, giving her a smile. “You’ll see.” Offering an encouraging nod, the moment didn’t last as there was a familiar phone chime and the hand was removed. Galinda opened her door, exiting the SUV with a: “Galinda Upland, joining the meeting. Let’s make this brief, people, I have better things to do today than this…” 

Shaking her head as Galinda began to pace around the sidewalk, speaking as she often did with her hands and body language, Elphaba got out too. Ruffling her braids to fall flat, she opened the back door. Peaches was fully knocked out, content to snooze in her car seat. Smiling at the sight, Elphaba unbuckled her, removing the headphones and forgotten animal crackers. Giving the child a gentle shake, her bright blue eyes opened as she gave a little yawn. 

Unable to speak to the girl, Elphaba nodded out of the car with her head. Peaches just whined with a little leg kick, reaching out her hands and scrunching her fingers. Right then. Picking the blonde up from the car seat, Elphaba was still amazed at how light she was compared to Liir. Peaches arms immediately latched around Elphaba’s neck, braced legs hooking around her waist in an impressive (and practiced) monkey hold. Grabbing her crutches just in case, Elphaba closed up the SUV with a foot. 

Locking it, Galinda returned from the far side of the sidewalk as they rounded the front of the car. 

“I can take her…” the woman whispered, offering her arms. Elphaba shook her head. 

“It’s fine. You’re in a meeting.” 

“Are you sure?” 

“Yeah. I got her.” 

Galinda pursed her lips but didn’t argue, reaching out a hand to smooth Peaches pale blonde hair. She signed something brief to her tired daughter, pretty face scrunching in warning. The child agreed with a nod, tucking her head up under Elphaba’s neck as she closed her eyes again. 

“If your arms get tired just bring her back out,” Galinda insisted. “Ok, Elphie?” 

“Ok.” 

“Now go or you’ll be late.” Galinda waved her hands, turning back around to jump back into the call as she shouted something about parabolic based rental structures. Not knowing exactly what that meant, Elphaba ascended the steps towards the front doors. Before she could even hit the automatic button, a hand opened it from the inside. 

“Welcome, welcome! You must be Miss Thropp.” The woman who greeted her had a kind face and soft eyes, with beautiful long dark hair and rich tanned skin. She was well dressed, but still had a lanyard around her neck the color of rainbow tie-dye and covered in pins. “I’m Headmistress Nastoya.” 

“Elphaba Thropp,” Elphaba introduced, tilting her head, seeing as her hands were full. 

“Is this your daughter?” 

“Oh…um, no. This is Peaches. She’s my boss's daughter; I nanny for her. My son Liir would be attending.” 

“I see. Come, I’ll give you a tour and you can tell me about your situation.” 

Swallowing thickly, Elphaba followed Headmistress Nastoya around campus, peeking into classrooms of various ages. All of them had at least two adults if not more, while the halls were colorful and painted with murals and art projects. Not a single child looked unhappy, while none stood out in the hallway on punishment (something Liir often did in his current school). Out the back door was a huge playground which Elphaba knew Liir would run himself ragged on, complete with a large dome of monkey bars and two sets of tall swings. Telling Nastoya about Liir and his struggles, the woman didn’t grimace or seem put off by his behavior. She just nodded along, serene as could be. 

“Liir is a lot to handle,” Elphaba sighed. “It hasn’t been easy for him, losing constant contact with his dad. I can’t keep fighting with him; he doesn’t like school and I’m tired of forcing it when it makes him so unahppy.” 

“I understand, Miss Thropp. Divorce can be hard on children, especially young boys. We have exceptional staff here, all of which will be more than happy to act as the extra support Liir needs during this time.” Headmistress Nastoya’s eyes crinkled with a kind and honest smile. “We can acclimate him into a smaller class first since it’s often overstimulation that causes children to deregulate themselves. There, he’d get more chances for individualized learning and behavioral correction. He can also be assigned to one of our school therapists; we boast the best program in the country.” 

“And how much is tuition?” 

“Ah, no worries about that. I spoke with your wife when she made this appointment, and she assured me that Liir’s attendance will be fully taken care of through the UCLAP trust.” 

“My…who?” Elphaba paused, blinking in bug-eye’d surprise. Headmistress Nestoya paused also, tilting her head. 

“Mrs. Upland? Your partner? She’s the one who made these arrangements on your behalf.” 

“Galinda isn’t my…we aren’t—?” 

“Oh. I’m so very sorry, Miss Thropp I must’ve misunderstood,” Nastoya admitted, looking sheepish. “She seems like a lovely woman, so I assumed…?” 

“We’re not together,” Elphaba explained as kindly as she could manage despite being so flustered. “I’m her live-in assistant.” 

“I see.” Nastoya didn’t seem to believe her, but didn’t say anything as she smiled at Peaches, who woke up to Elphaba’s sudden change in body heat. “Would Peaches like to sit in on our break time? We have a puppet show coming to visit.” 

“Oh. Um, I’m sure she’d love that. But Peaches is deaf?” 

“Well, that’s no problem. Most of our staff are trained in OSL.” Nastoya demonstrated by signing something to Peaches, who immediately sat up. The girl released her grip on Elphaba as she said something back, beginning a short conversation which ended with Peaches scrambling out of her arms and to the floor. She immediately tugged at Elphaba’s sleeve, a pleading look in her eyes. 

“There will be other staff there, right?” 

“Plenty. And if it eases your mind, I will take Peaches myself. It’s just down the hall in the cafeteria.” 

Glancing down at the blonde again, her blue eyes were absolutely shimmering. Awkwardly, Elphaba gave a nod of approval. 

“Don’t worry, Miss Elphaba. It’ll only be a little while.” Nastoya signed something to Peaches, who grinned ear to ear and got settled on her crutches. Following the pair out into the hall, Elphaba made sure they stayed together. Other students were already filing in line by line for the puppet show, buzzing with barely witheld excitement. They never had puppet shows at Liir’s school. 

Glancing at the entrance, it was a beautiful day outside. The sun was shining, the sky was blue, and birds chirped just beyond the glass. Yet as Elphaba stared into the parking lot, a familiar sense of dread coiled in her gut. Satisfied that Peaches was safe and well looked after for the moment, Elphaba left the school in a hurry. She stood on the front stoop, staring out at the sidewalk. 

Galinda wasn’t there. 

“Damn it!” Her heart racing in fright, she hurdled down the steps, not caring about wrinkling her nice clothes as she gazed wildly around the lot. Nothing looked out of place, but there was a new car present. A dark green convertible. Oz. 

“…I told you I’m not interested.” 

Galinda’s a voice reached Elphaba’s ear from around the corner, causing her steps to widen and her chest to ache, her fight or flight on high alert. 

“Galinda, my dear, all this stress is too much for you.” 

“I’m handling it fine. I don’t need your help, Oscar.” 

“Come now, sweetheart, don’t be that way. I just want to help.” 

“I don’t want your help. I never wanted your help.” Rounding the corner of the building, Galinda stood by the wall, a tall, familiar figure pressing her back into the brick. “You disgust me.” 

“Come now, my lovely, it’s nothing personal,” Oz insisted, one arm boxing Galinda in, his hand pressed into the wall right by her ear. “Not like that little show you put on at the apartment fire. Badmouthing my business to the press? Tsk, tsk, you should know better. How rude.” 

“I wasn’t the one trying to take advantage of displaced families, Oz,” Galinda spat. “You’re selfish and greedy, and Westin was twice the man you’ll ever be.” 

Galinda hiccuped a gasp as Oz grabbed onto her wrist, slamming it into the wall with his hand. He leaned closer, lips curling. 

“Westin was weak and you know it. You need a stronger man in your life, Galinda. I can be that man. Everything you've ever wanted, I can give you. You could be wonderful.” 

“Hey!” Refusing to run but quickening her gait, Oz looked up. Elphaba tilted her chin unhappy, pulling herself up as tall as she could go despite being dwarfed by the man’s height. 

“Well, well. Miss West. Pleasure to see you again.” 

“Get your hands off her.” Pushing herself between Galinda and Oz, the man backed away. 

“I see you’ve got yourself a guard dog, Mrs. Upland,” he mused, lip curling into a smirk. “Not to worry. We were just having a conversation, weren’t we, sweetheart?” 

“Go away, Oscar,” Galinda croaked, shrinking against the wall. Oz huffed in annoyance. 

“I’m sorry to hear about your apartment, Miss West,” the man drawled. “Or should I say Miss Thropp?” 

“She told you to get lost, jackass,” Elphaba growled, using her leg to keep Galinda behind her. “Scram, before I call the cops for harassment.” 

“Hmm. Good luck with that. When you inevitably change your mind Galinda, you have my number. A visit to the casino sometime wouldn’t hurt either, seeing as you have all that money to burn.”

Elphaba sneered. “Fuck off.” 

“Suit yourself. Good day, ladies.” With a head tilt Oz left, jumping into his green sports car and tearing from the driveway. Not moving until he was for sure gone, Elphaba turned around. Galinda had lost most of the color in her face, her eyes dark and tired as she shook. 

“Galinda? Hey, are you alright?” 

Galinda didn’t answer, cradling her arm to her chest as her lip wobbled. “I’m here, it’s ok.” Gently pulling the woman to her, Elphaba wrapped her up as she began to fall apart. Glancing towards the parking lot again, Elphaba ran her hand through Galinda’s hair, trying (and failing) to soothe her. This couldn’t go on anymore. It wasn’t fair.  

She needed to do something. And she needed to do it now.

Chapter Text

Elphaba had never seen Peaches and Galinda argue before. Not a ‘pouting over a snack’ kind of argument either, but a real argument. The kind that made a mother wonder if their reaction was just a bit too much. 

She was tired, having just dropped Liir off to be with his dad for the weekend. It was a tense exchange, seeing as she still hadn’t gotten an apology about her ex wanting to adjust his child support. Fiyero didn’t miss the chance, of course, to point out her clothes and car, noting how she was clearly ‘doing well for herself’ in that snarky, arrogant tone he used to piss her off. It took all of Elphaba’s strength to keep her mouth shut, but she let Liir run off with his father anyway, chattering on and on about whatever it was that happened to interest him that day. 

She was hoping for a nice quiet evening at home, seeing as Galinda insisted she take time off after her first week of being a personal assistant. But as she stepped through the door, electricity buzzed in the air. Her heckles rose at the change in atmosphere, the fight or flight in her rearing in surprise. Thankfully (or perhaps unfortunately), it wasn’t an intruder. Rather, it was a mother and daughter partaking in a very, very loud argument. 

Having never actually heard Peaches speak more than a few words at a time, walking into her actually shouting at her mother took Elphaba off guard. 

“…I’m not a baby!” Peaches signed as she spoke, the two blondes facing off in the kitchen, both red in the cheeks and blustering in their anger. Clearly, this argument had been going on for a while. They looked so much like each other it was almost scary. “I can do things for myself.” 

“You. Are. A.Child.” Galinda reiterated, speaking as she signed, each hand motion sharp like a shout all its own. “I am your mother, and you do what I tell you. I told you no, therefore the answer is no.” 

“But Daddy would’ve let me!” 

“Well Daddy isn’t here!” Galinda snapped, her face scrunching in fury as her chest heaved and her breaths came in short, frustrated pants. “I am not a second parent to him, Peaches Arduenna. I am doing my best—!” 

“But you don’t let me do anything!” 

“Because it’s not safe,” Galinda reiterated. “You stay here with me because I can protect you. If you got hurt, I couldn’t…I…this is not a question. I said no and that’s final.” 

Peaches face crumbled, tears boiling in her big blue eyes as she threw down her hands and used her entire body to show off her unhappiness. “But mommy—!” 

“Enough! I have made my decision and you will listen to it.” Galinda brandished a warning finger. “Go to your room and don’t come out until I tell you!” 

“But—!” 

“Peaches Arduenna Chuffery-Upland! Do as you're told. Now.” 

Peaches looked like she wanted to fight. To scream her little lungs out until her mom relented. But Galinda stood her ground, her back straight and her arms crossed as she gave her daughter a stern, cold-eyed stare. The little blonde squeaked as she dissolved into blubbering tears, crutches clattering as she galloped from the kitchen and back to her room. Elphaba heard the door slam with a hard rattle, ending the argument. 

Distracted by the little girl and her sorrow, Elphaba jumped as something shattered. Galinda had picked up a plate and smashed it against the nearest wall. She was absolutely quaking with rage, her own tears loud and harsh as she threw another plate, then another. Soon enough a pile of porcelain dust was gathering, smashed to pieces by the whirlwind that was Galinda Upland. It reminded her of that first day in the hospital; how the blonde had successfully managed to shatter her cell phone in a fit of barely withheld rage. 

Elphaba thought to intervene—to stop Galinda from destroying her things—but something stopped her. It wasn’t really her place to interfere. Not in her companion’s anger, as poorly directed as it was. Nor in how Galinda chose to parent her daughter, especially since she didn’t know what the argument was even about. But whatever it was, it pissed Galinda off as the woman stomped from the kitchen. 

The glare Elphaba received over one shoulder wasn’t expected at all. It was a mean, hateful look that made something in her stomach roll. Had she done something wrong? Before she could even finish the thought, Galinda was gone, slamming the door to her office just as Peaches had slammed the door to her room. 

Then it was quiet…almost deafeningly so. Swallowing, now wondering what exactly happened between mother and daughter while she was gone, Elphaba mindlessly tidied up the mess. She scooped pieces of broken porcelain into a dustpan, disposing of it carefully. She righted fallen over barstools, and gathered the forgotten work Galinda had left on the kitchen island. And for several hours, Elphaba got the quiet evening she wanted, though hardly in the way she was expecting. 

Making a simple dinner of mac and cheese and fruit slices for Peaches, Elphaba entered the child’s room with caution. It had been a while, meaning the girl had fallen asleep where she’d gone and thrown herself amongst the sunflower sheets in a fit. There were still old tear-tracks on her face, while the beginnings of a familiar scrunch had etched its way between her brows. Like mother like daughter. 

“Peaches.” Leaning over to give her a nudge, the blonde merely groaned and rolled over. Trying again a bit more forcefully, blue but red-ringed eyes finally met green in the dying light of the bedroom. Elphaba made the hand motion Liir had taught her, the one for ‘food’. Peaches didn’t smile—she looked miserable—but she sat up anyway, hunched over with snot dribbling down her face. She signed back a very simple ‘thank you’, accepting the plate of food, as well as the tissue Elphaba whipped out of her sleeve. 

Patting the girls head with a hand and wishing she was fluent in sign language so that she could offer some comfort, Peaches began to eat in silence and Elphaba left her to it. Exiting the bedroom, she moved to the office next, hesitating upon lifting her hand to knock. 

Galinda probably didn’t want to be bothered. 

Still, she worried and pushed her fear away. She knew better than to leave Galinda Upland alone for too long when she was all caught up in a tizzy. With a deep and regretful sigh, Elphaba turned the knob and poked her head into the office, “Galinda?” 

Maneuvering into the room, the lights had been turned off, leaving it dark and cramped. The computer was asleep and the chair was pushed in. The patio curtains were tossed aside though, the slider left open a crack, leading into the backyard. Elphaba pushed aside the glass to look out. In the dying light of a Friday evening, Galinda sat at the end of one of the pool loungers. She’d shed her clothing, wearing nothing but a tank top and shorts that revealed her gaunt frame and pale skin. But Elphaba noticed small tendrils of smoke around the woman’s face, following it down to the cigarette held between two fingers. Absolutely not. 

Closing the distance between them in a few hurried strides, Galinda wasn’t fast enough to protect her bad habit. She squealed as Elphaba snatched the cigarette from between her fingertips, nearly falling from the chair as she instinctively grabbed for it. “Hey!” 

“What is this?” 

“None of your business,” Galinda snarked, grabbing for the light, only for Elphaba to quickly toss it on the ground and crush it under her foot. “Elphaba.” 

“These are just as bad as the pills, what’s wrong with you?” 

“Pardon me for living,” Galinda snapped unhappily, surprising Elphaba with a rough shove. “Go away.” 

“No. It’s time for dinner.” 

“I’m not four.” 

Elphaba crossed her arms. “You’re sure acting like it.” 

“I’m trying to have a bit of peace and quiet and you just ruined it.” 

“No, I saved your lungs from a lifetime of damage, that’s what I did,” Elphaba retorted. “What is with you and these bad habits? Do you want to set a bad example for Peaches?” 

“Peaches doesn’t give a shit what I say or do,” Galinda scoffed, causing Elphaba’s eyebrows to raise in surprise. “She wants Westin. She always wants Westin. I could vanish and I doubt she’d even notice.” 

“Galinda, she’s six. She misses her dad…” 

“Yeah, well, I miss him too but I’m not making it everyone else’s problem.” 

“Galinda.” Elphaba turned as the blonde brushed by her, roughly jostling her shoulder. Not knowing what else to do, she reached out and grabbed Galinda’s arm, holding her in place. “Galinda, stop.” 

“Elphaba, just leave me alone.” 

“Not until you talk to me.” 

“No.” Galinda ripped her arm away, making a noise between her teeth that was a mix between a huff and a hiss. “Let me be angry.” 

“Can’t do that, Miss Popular. I’m still on the clock.” 

“Ugh, remind me again why I hired you to be here?” 

“Because you’d pill, drink, or smoke yourself into an early grave. That’s why,” Elphaba replied, stepping in Galinda’s way as the blonde was forced to stop again. “What’s wrong?” 

“It’s not any of your concern. It’s a family matter.” 

“A you and Peaches matter, then?” 

“Yes.” Galinda’s fists curled in annoyance. “I never should’ve let you take her with you today. This is all your fault.” 

Elphaba stepped back a bit as Galinda poked her in the chest. She didn’t realize though how close she’d gotten to the edge of the pool. With a surprised shout she was suddenly floundering backwards, hooking Galinda’s arm as they both fell into the water with a noisy splash! Thankfully it wasn’t deep, but Elphaba quickly resurfaced, pushing her heavy hair out of her face, only to find her glasses missing. 

“Damn it!” 

“Elphie, here.” Blinking as the frames were shoved back onto her nose, Elphaba blinked a little as Galinda came back into view. She was soaked to the skin too, the water causing her clothing to stick to the shape of her body. Her brown eyes were bulbous and surprised as she forced blonde hair off the back of her neck. “Galinda…I—I’m so sorry. Are you hurt?” 

“Did you really have to drag me in with you?” Galinda wondered, though her tone was light as she lifted her arm, revealing a long red cement burn down it’s side. “Hell and Oz…” 

“Let me see…” 

“No!” Galinda shifted backwards in the water. “Haven’t you done enough?” 

“Galinda, please.” Wading closer, Elphaba stopped as Galinda used a hand to splash at her, as though it would keep her away. “Really? You splash me when I’m already wet?” 

“Stay over there, you heathen,” the blonde ordered, something almost resembling a smile curling one side of her lip. Elphaba rolled her eyes, lunging forward as Galinda shrieked. She did try to get away, but the water made her slow and she was already rake thin. Tossing the woman over her shoulder in a fireman's hold, Elphaba ignored it as Galinda pushed against her back with both hands, trying to get free. “Elphaba Thropp, put me down this instant!”

“As you wish.” 

With a small oof, Elphaba deposited her catch onto a lounger, leaning over to wring water from her hair as Galinda scowled at her. 

“Was that really necessary?” 

“I could throw you back in—?” 

“No! No. I think one swim is enough, don’t you?” Galinda sniffled a little in the cold, shaking out her own wet hair. While she shivered like a drowned rat, Elphaba made herself useful by grabbing a few beach towels and a first aid kit from a bin by the door, tossing one over her companion’s head. 

“Let me see your arm.” 

“Why, so you can twist it some more?” 

“Galinda.” 

“Oh alright. Bossy.” Wrapping the towel around her wet shoulders, Elphaba knelt to have a look. The scrape didn’t break the skin; there was no blood. But it still looked painful, already beginning to welt. Tsking unhappily in her cheek, Elphaba smeared some burn ointment onto her fingers, gently applying it to Galinda’s arm. For a moment there was only silence between them. But it didn’t last. 

“I…Elphie, I’m sorry.” 

“For what?” 

“For my behavior just now.” Galinda dropped her head shamefully. “I’m afraid I don’t have as good a grip on my temper these days as I used to.” 

“It’s alright.” 

“It’s not. You’re just trying to help, and I appreciate it. I just…” Galinda’s wet brows furrowed into their familiar scrunch. “I just wish I was better prepared to do this.” 

“Do what, exactly?” 

“This. Being a single mom? I’m supposed to have all the answers; be put together. But I’m a wreck.” 

“No one ever has all the answers, Miss Galinda,” Elphaba replied, looking over her work. 

“It feels like I should. I never should’ve claimed this was your fault, Elphie. It’s…well…it’s complicated.” 

“Enlighten me.” 

“Peaches wants to go back to school,” Galinda replied, her voice a weak croak as her hands curled in her lap. “She wants to be with Liir.” 

“Oh.” 

“I can’t possibly do that.” Terror filled Galinda’s face in an instant. “There’s so much evil in the world. A—and danger? She could get hurt and I won’t be there, or—or…” 

“Galinda. Galinda, breathe.” 

“Elphie, I couldn’t possibly have her out of my sight for that long!”  

“Galinda…” 

“Someone could take her! Oh gods, oh sweet Lurline…” 

“Galinda Upland! Get a grip.” Rising to her feet and taking Galinda’s face in both hands, Elphaba forced the woman to look at her. “Take a breath.” 

“Elphie, what do I do?” 

“You do what you need to do as a mom, that’s the best we can ever do. And if you think Peaches isn’t safe, then that’s your choice. But you’re not allowed to care so much about Peaches safety while discounting your own.” 

“I’m fine.” 

“Oscar could’ve hurt you today,” Elphaba said, swirling a wet lock of blonde around her nail. “He’s stalking you, Galinda. I think he’s probably trying to kill you.” 

“I know.” 

“You know, and yet you haven’t even had the fence installed yet.” 

Galinda ducked her head, a reddish tint dusting her cheekbones as Elphaba sighed heavily. She sat down beside her friend, pursing her lips. “I know a guy. Someone I knew back home? He owes me a favor. A big one.”

“What kind of favor?” 

“Let’s just say he knows more about protecting people than I do. And you, Miss Popular, aren’t going to say a single word against it.” 

“But—?” 

“Zip.” Elphaba lifted a finger, tilting her head as Galinda’s jaw clicked shut. “Not a word. You focus on Peaches, and I’ll focus on you. Deal?” 

“But I—?” 

“Do we have a deal?” Galinda scowled, pigeoning her knees together. Boldly perhaps, Elphaba reached out to tilt the other woman’s chin, making sure they were eye to eye. “I told you I’m here to help. But you have to let me try first. Ok?” 

Galinda’s throat bobbed as her brown irises flickered up and down, taking in Elphaba in the dim light of the pool glow. 

“Ok, Elphaba. It’s a deal.” 

Chapter Text

Elphaba loved Liir with her whole heart…but sometimes it was nice sleeping in. Waking up on her own for the first time all week, Elphaba stretched beneath her silky green covers. Grappling blindly for her glasses and shoving them onto her face, the digital clock read 9:02 AM. She really had slept in late. Rubbing the back of her neck and shaking out her braids, bright, warm sunshine was breaking through her curtains. It was sure to be a perfect Saturday. And with Liir properly occupied with his Father (who would pack him full of enough sugar and junk food to power him till the next visitation), she finally had some time to herself. 

Except that wasn’t entirely true, because Elphaba didn’t live alone anymore. There was an entire second child somewhere in the house. She was surprised Peaches hadn’t woken her up; the blonde had no qualms entering her room for some extra attention when Galinda wasn’t enough. But this morning was uncommonly quiet; a bit too quiet. Tilting her head to hear what was going on in the rest of the house, Elphaba didn’t hear a thing. Once upon a time, that would’ve been a blessing. But things had changed, and complete silence was never a good thing. 

Quickly tossing away the covers and scrambling to her feet, Elphaba didn’t bother to change or fix herself up as she ran out into the hall with a shout:  

“Galinda!” 

“…outside!” 

Exhaling in relief at the distant call from the backyard, Elphaba pressed a hand to her chest to settle her rapidly beating heart. Nothing happened. Everything was fine. She was fine. Shuffling through the house wne stepping through the sliding glass door into the yard, Elphaba paused at the entrance to the pool area. A table was laid out before her, heaped with cuts of fresh fruit, waffles with whipped cream, honey-baked ham, fresh bacon and various drinks in ice. What the…? 

“Good morning, Elphie!” 

Glancing up from the wonderful looking breakfast, Galinda was sitting poolside. She was in nothing but a white and pink bikini, her legs in the water as she read the morning paper through a large pair of sunglasses. Peaches was in the water too, kept in arms reach as she paddled around in bright yellow water wings and played with rubber ducks floating in a rainbow around her. 

“Galinda. Uh…good morning?” Elphaba took in the breakfast again and furrowed her brows. “Did you make all this?” 

“Would you believe me if I said yes?” 

“No.” 

“Then you’ve answered your own question, darling.” Galinda chuckled a little, turning the page of her newspaper with a rustle. “I had it catered.” 

“But why?” 

“Do I need a reason?” 

“I mean….I guess not? But this seems like a lot for a random Saturday morning.” 

“Elphaba.” Despite her eyes being covered, Elphaba could feel how Galinda rolled her eyes alongside her name. “You don’t need to rationalize everything. Please, help yourself and enjoy your day off.” 

“You did this just for my day off?” Elphaba stiffened, suddenly calculating how much a catered table of breakfast might possibly cost. “Galinda, no. No, no, this is too much!” 

“You act like you’re the only one who needs to eat in this house,” Galinda scoffed. “You know as well as I do that cooking isn’t my forte. And you deserve to stay out of the kitchen for a day, so I ordered in. Is that really so bad?” 

“Galinda, this is…I…?” 

“If you feel the need to combust, darling, please don’t do it on the masonry? I just had it powerwashed.”  

“Galinda, I don’t like you spending frivolous money on me.” 

“It’s hardly frivolous if we’re all going to partake,” Galinda pointed out. “Don’t put up such a fuss.” 

“Did you eat?” 

Galinda finally seemed to hesitate, rolling back her bony shoulders to try and seem casual but failing miserably. “I…um…I ate a little, of course.” 

“Galinda. For Lurline’s sake, you ordered all this food and you haven’t eaten any of it?” 

“I’m not particularly peckish first thing in the morning, Elphie.” 

“If you don’t eat, I’m not touching this either.” 

Elphaba stuck up her chin, folding her arms against her chest. She had plans to remain firm and stoic, but found something inside her crumbling as Galinda lifted her glasses. Her brilliant brown eyes were practically hazel in the sunshine, glittering in the reflective shine of the pool. Damn it. 

“Is that so?” 

Elphaba’s spit felt like molasses as she swallowed. Galinda had never given her this particular look before. It was hard to even describe what the look was, exactly, but it made Elphaba feel like a bug. “Yes.” 

Galinda seemed to think for a moment before relaxing, tucking her sunglasses up into her corn-gold hair. Apparently she wasn’t in the mood to fight. “Very well, Elphie. Change into something more appropriate and join us. I promise I’ll eat.” 

Elphaba dropped her arms in surprise, letting them hang limp at her side. She was expecting more kickback. “Just like that?” 

“I’d hate the table to go to waste just because you want to be stubborn,” Galinda complained, tossing her head. “Go get dressed. Don’t dawdle now.” 

Not sure what else to do, Elphaba haltingly nodded and marched her way back inside. Putting on her bathing suit in a daze—one that she’d never worn before today—she slowly returned outside. As promised, Galinda had gotten Peaches out of the pool and situated at the table Instead. They were in the process of reapplying thick lathers of sunscreen, giving Elphaba a full view of her companion’s back. Her milky flesh was pulled across taught protruding muscle and bone, lines of text printed across her shoulder the only thing breaking up the canvas. 

“Elphie?” 

“Hmm, what?” 

It was Galinda’s turn to give her a once over, brown eyes raking her up and down. Elphaba shuffled under the scrutiny. After all, her eczema was on display, patchy, raw, and flaking off like snowfall. Not exactly a pretty sight. Galinda just smiled, revealing her dimpled cheek. 

“That looks nice on you.” 

“You picked it.” 

“Well I have excellent taste.” Closing the distance between them, Elphaba inhaled the scent of SPF as well as Galinda’s shampoo. She nearly lost her footing as a pale hand brushed against her bicep, tracing the muscle with a nail. “And you do have such a lovely physique, Miss Elphaba,” the blonde murmured, passing by her like a breath of wind. “Shall we, then?”  

Nodding, Elphaba followed Galinda’s heels towards the buffet. She piled her plate with whatever looked good, relishing in the zest of fresh pineapple, the juice of still hot bacon, and the burn of a good cup of coffee. Naturally, Peaches immediately asked for a waffle with whipped cream and strawberries, as well as other various fruits and some strips of ham which Galinda put on her plate. Galinda herself didn’t bother to grab a plate. She picked up a small ramekin that fit in the palm of her hand, filling it with fruit for herself. Rolling her eyes, Elphaba readied a second helping, setting it in front of her companion who’d already sat down. 

“Elphie, what is all this?” 

“Protein, Miss Popular. You need to eat, and not like a duck in a bowl of peas.” 

“But—?” 

“You said we’d eat,” Elphaba insisted, setting down her own plate. “I don’t need your bones turning into chalk from lack of vitamins.” 

“I’m perfectly healthy, thank you,” Galinda argued. “I take my multivitamin every morning.” 

“You should be getting that from food, not a pharmacy, Miss Upland.” 

“You worry too much.” 

“That’s what you pay me for.” 

“I’m starting to regret that decision,” Galinda huffed, using a fork to push a piece of ham around her plate. Eventually though she began to pick away at the meal, though the dish was completely reorganized by color halfway through. Watching as Peaches wolfed down her entire plate, Elphaba indulged as well. She disliked the idea of Galinda spending so much money on a catered breakfast, but it was so delicious. It was the feeling of eyes on her that caused her fork to pause. 

Galinda had a thousand yard stare, her hand paused from its reorganization of her plate. Elphaba knew the distant gaze well, seeing as her father often had one similar when he was elsewhere. Wishing she could read minds, just to know what her companion was thinking about, Elphaba reached out to gently grab her fingertips. Thankfully, Galinda didn’t seem completely lost, shaking out of her thoughts as she stared down at the fingers now intertwined with hers.  

“Are you ok?” 

“Y—yes, of course.” Galinda’s throat bobbed. She put down her fork, food barely touched. “Apologies. I was just…thinking…about something. That’s all.” 

“Do you want to talk about it?” 

“No. But thanks for asking.”  

Elphaba watched as Galinda shook herself, forcing the grief away. She didn’t like the idea of such pain being pushed down; something that would subsequently lead to a collapse later on. But it was a beautiful morning, and Elphaba didn’t want to ruin it by prying. So she just held onto Galinda’s fingertips instead, using her opposite hand to push her plate towards her. 

“Please eat more?” 

“Ah…I don’t think I could keep it down, darling.” Galinda laughed a little, but Elphaba could see how quickly she’d gone ashen. Whatever had been on her mind clearly wasn’t a happy thought.  

“You’ll eat more later?”  

“Yes, Miss Elphaba. I’ll eat more later,” Galinda agreed, no doubt just to appease her. She leaned forward a bit to pull Peaches' plate away from her, the little blonde pouting at the now empty porcelain. “I think this one has eaten far too much.” 

Peaches, despite not being able to hear, replied. Perhaps she had a second sense that Galinda was talking about her? Elphaba didn’t catch much—she was only halfway through her book on sign—but the mother and daughter were discussing swimming, time, and a nap. 

“How do you do that?” 

“Do what?” Galinda stood, fingers slipping out of Elphaba’s hand as she rounded the table, gently picking up her daughter who wiggled. 

“Talk so fast? There are so many signs to learn.” Elphaba leaned on her fist with a deep sigh. “It’s not just learning the alphabet. So many things have their own motions and meanings…” 

“I didn’t realize you were trying to learn,” Galinda admitted, setting Peaches down in the shade of a lounger. She signed to her daughter, something about ‘sleep’, as the little blonde yawned and accepted a beach towel as a blanket. “It just takes time and practice; no different than any new language.” 

“Liir’s been picking it up faster than I have,” Elphaba complained. “I take pride in my ability to learn quickly. But this isn’t one of those things.” 

“Children are a wonder,” Galinda chuckled, placing a kiss on her daughter's forehead as she returned to the table. “Liir has spent far more time with Peaches, who only speaks in sign. Unless, of course, she’s mad at me.” 

Elphaba exhaled heavily, lifting her hand. She made a single motion with her fist; a circle around the heart. I’m sorry. She proceeded to spell out Galinda’s name with her hand, the blonde remaining silent the entire time as she struggled. Her brows softened as she tilted her head, accepting the silent words. 

“Thank you, Elphie. But you needn’t do all that spelling.” Galinda quirked her lip, lifting her hands to sign back, translating as she did. “You can call me…Glinda.”

“Glinda?” Elphaba repeated the motion, crossing her hands before her chest and moving the fingers to resemble sparkles. 

Galinda hummed in her throat. “A nickname. West gave it to me, seeing as spelling my name is such a terrible hassle in sign.” 

“Glinda,” Elphaba repeated again, her heart skipping a beat. “That’s beautiful. Can I…am I allowed to use it?” 

“I wouldn’t have told you if you weren’t, darling,” Galinda chuckled, sadness creeping back into her face. “It seems like so long since anyone has called me that.” 

Elphaba frowned as her companion shifted, pulling into herself as narrow arms wrapped her torso into a hug. Closing the distance between them, Elphaba placed a hand on the back of Galinda’s neck, rolling her thumbs into the taught muscles as the blonde released a breath. “I miss him terribly, Elphie,” the woman croaked. “I have to choose a date for the funeral. There’s so much I have to do but I can’t…” 

“You don’t have to do anything,” Elphaba reassured, using a hand to gently tilt Galinda’s head towards her so they were eye to eye. “That’s why you have me here. Whatever you need Ga—Glinda.” 

Galinda’s brows furrowed, her lips parting a touch as she inhaled. “Miss Elphaba, you’re too good to me.” 

“Hmm. It’s my job to be good to you,” Elphaba replied. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” 

Chapter Text

It was never a good thing when Fiyero called wanting to meet up. Especially not during his visitation. Elphaba wished she could see things through her son's eyes, where a meeting like this one was just extra time with both his parents and a playdate at the park. 

But things weren’t ever that simple. 

“What do you suppose he wants to talk about?” Ga—Glinda—spoke while removing Peaches from her car seat, the little blonde already revving to go despite her lack of mobility. 

“I wish I knew. With Fiyero it could be anything.” 

“That certainly doesn’t narrow it down.” 

“No, it doesn’t. He didn’t say on the phone, just said he wanted to talk in person.” 

“Are you sure you want me here?” Glinda pushed her daughter to sit in the open doorway of the passenger seat, crouching to adjust her braces and velcro knee pads over top. “I mean, pardon my saying darling but this seems rather personal.” 

“You being alone at the house makes me nervous.” 

“Why’s that?” 

Elphaba rolled her eyes. “You know why, Glinda.” 

“Tush. You worry too much, Miss Elphaba,” Glinda replied blandly. “I’m quite safe at home.” 

“Uh-huh. When is the gate being installed?” 

“Wednesday.” 

“Good. Then you can be home alone on Wednesday.” 

Glinda made a sharp tsking noise between her teeth, scrunching her face unhappily. “What of this ‘friend’ you spoke of?” 

“He’ll be arriving with Dr. Turtleheart on Monday,” Elphaba replied with a smirk, crossing her arms as she leaned against the SUV. “Or have you forgotten about our deal?” 

“No, I haven’t forgotten. You won’t let me forget.” 

“You’re batting a hundred today, Miss Upland.” 

“You’re incorrigible.” Glinda scowled over her shoulder, but returned her focus to Peaches as she smeared sunscreen from a bottle onto her hands. Glancing away from the pair to look around the parking lot, Elphaba frowned unhappily. Of course Fiyero was late to his own meeting. 

“Mom!” 

Elphaba nearly fell over as a flying bullet slammed into her from the side. Liir had seemingly appeared from thin air, his mess of curls wild, and his clothes mismatching (as it usually was when he spent the weekend with his father). 

“L—Liir,” Elphaba placed a hand on the boys head, double checking that it was actually him and not some other confused little boy. “Where in hell and Oz did you come from?” 

“We walked!” 

“You…walked?” Elphaba raised a brow in surprise, lifting her head to address the man who’d now come up close behind him. “Fiyero, you walked here?” 

“Well hello to you too,” Fiyero greeted, ruffling his still shower-wet hair. “And hello Miss…Galinda, was it?” 

“That’s Ms. Upland, if you please, Mr. Tigelaar,” Glinda replied, arching her blonde brow. The look was one Elphaba hoped to never have directed at her; it was positively chilly. “Elphaba, we’ll just be over there.” 

“Sure.” 

“Liir, come, please.” Glinda held out her hand, motioning for her son. He immediately detached from where he clung to her leg, grabbing onto the other woman’s hand and beginning to chatter about whatever it was he’d been doing all morning. Glinda nodded along to every word, keeping the boy close to her as Peaches clattered along ahead of them, swinging fearlessly on her aids as a horse might gallop on its hooves. 

“I don’t think she likes me very much,” Fiyero said once the blonde was out of earshot. “Pretty though.” 

Elphaba screwed up her face. “Don’t objectify her, Fiyero.” 

“I’m not. Don’t you think she’s pretty?” 

“I…” Elphaba immediately choked. “Yeah, I do. But that’s not the point. Don’t get on her bad side, she could buy out your family ten times over.”

“Hmm. Pretty and rich,” Fiyero noted with a chuckle. “I can see why you took the swing.” 

“I didn’t swing anything,” Elphaba scoffed, hitting the man with her fist. It didn’t do much against his muscly bicep, but it was worth a shot. “Have you been working out again?” 

“Oh you noticed?” Fiyero lifted his arms, flexing the muscles which were only just beginning to return. “Nice, huh? Thought it was about time I got in shape.” 

“You don’t just ‘get in shape’ for the hell of it, Fiyero. I know you.” Elphaba scrunched her eyes, suspicion tickling her gut. “What’s going on?” 

“I just wanted to talk, you know? Can’t I have a civil conversation with my ex?” 

“You made this sound urgent.” 

“Well…I mean…it is, kinda.” 

“Keep talking.” 

“Look, I got a job. So I’ll be paying the child support, just like you asked.” 

“Oh.” Elphaba blinked. “Well that’s…good. Congrats on doing the bare minimum for your child, Fiyero. Do you want a gold star or something?” 

“Elphaba…” 

“Fiyero, it’s been almost a year. You’ve been avoiding this for twelve months, and I’m supposed to what? Applaud?” 

“Yeah, kinda? I thought you’d be happy.” 

“I’d be happier if you’d been paying support when I actually needed it. When I was struggling to make ends meet? When I had to keep Liir at the restaurant because he got suspended from school for a third time? But now that I’m finally stable, you decide to finally get your act together? Pardon me for not leaping for joy that you finally got your head out of your ass after it mattered.” 

“You’re leeching off someone else, I’d hardly call that stable,” Fiyero jabbed, causing Elphaba’s temper to flare. 

“What did you say?” 

“Living in a rich woman’s house? Having her buy things for you? It seems to me, Elphaba, that instead of actually going through the effort of making ends meet, you decided to be some rich snobs little pet instead…” 

CRACK! Elphaba didn’t realize her hand was flying till it whipped across Fiyero’s cheek, shutting him up instantly. 

“How dare you! You don’t talk about Glinda that way,” Elphaba heaved, her breaths whistling through her nose as she steamed. “Glinda has done more for me—more for your son—than you ever have.” 

“You hit me!” 

“Yeah, well, you deserved to get hit,” Elphaba spat, curling her fists. “Fiyero, you better tell me right fucking now what the hell it is that you want before I get into this SUV and run you over with it!” 

“I was going to be a good guy and get your permission for something, but now I’m not so sure.” 

“Permission for what?” 

“I want Liir to meet my new girlfriend.” 

Elphaba froze. The wind was taken out of her as she suddenly fell limp, losing her steam as quickly as it had come. Fiyero stared at her, arms crossed, no hint of a jest anywhere in his face. 

“W…what?” 

“My girlfriend?” Fiyero punctuated his words, stabbing each one into Elphaba’s chest. She wasn’t fully aware how much it hurt until her heart began to sting. “The girl I’m dating now? That’s what a girlfriend is, Elphaba.” 

“You…you’re with someone else?” 

“Yeah, I am. And she’s really something. I like her a lot.” 

Elphaba exhaled, though it came out as more of a sharp gasp as she shook her head. “I can’t believe you.” 

“What?” 

“Twelve months you told me you couldn’t find a job. A whole year you refused to help support your son. But the minute a new woman walks into your life, suddenly you’re the golden man?” 

“Elphaba.” 

“Is that why you’re getting in shape again? For her. Not so you can carry your son as he grows another inch and a half? Or—or teach him how to catch a baseball? Or whatever the fuck it is dad’s are supposed to do?” 

“Sarima has her own kids,” Fiyero insisted, causing Elphaba to gawk. “Liir could have brothers, Elphaba. Siblings.” 

“You are Liir’s world, Fiyero. Don’t you understand that? Do you know what it’ll do to him if you suddenly care about another woman’s kids?” 

“I…thought maybe he’d like having other boys around?” 

“Liir isn’t like other boys, Fiyero. He’s not like you! He’s never been like you. He’s sensitive, and kind, and other boys bully him because of it. Have you lost your mind? And what about this woman? Will she treat Liir the same as her own sons, or will she outcast him because he’s not hers?” 

“Sarima wouldn’t do that.” 

“How do you know?” 

“I…I just do. She’s coming to meet him. Tomorrow. I just thought I’d tell you.” 

Elphaba pursed her lips, something hot burning along her eyelids as she shook her head. “No.” 

“No? It’s my visitation.” 

“I’m going to petition the court for full custody,” Elphaba spat, grinding her teeth. Fiyero’s eyes widened. 

“You can’t do that!” 

“I can and I will.” Elphaba growled back, jabbing Fiyero in the chest with her nail. “You can barely find it in you to care about your son, yet you hook up with a woman who has her own kids? You can barely handle one, I want to see you handle three, or four, or however many this bitch has in her litter.” 

“Hey, that’s uncalled for.” 

“Did you get her pregnant too? You knock her up, pretend to love her, and then drop her the minute the novelty wears off?” 

“Elphaba…” 

“No. No, I can’t…Fiyero, just stop it. If you bring this other woman into Liir’s life, it’s over. Because I have no faith in you as a father. Do I make myself clear?” 

“I…” 

“Am I clear, Fiyero Tigelaar?” 

Fiyero shifted unhappily but tilted his head. “Crystal.” 

“Since you’re so insistent on getting back in shape, go take a run. Come back in an hour for Liir.” 

“Fine.” 

“Good.” Elphaba whipped around, still steaming from the ears as she stomped her way across the park. Glinda had taken up position on a bench, one milky thigh crossed over her knee, brown eyes watching both Liir and Peaches with hawk-like intensity. Elphaba must’ve been giving off vibrations as the blonde seemed to sense her coming, expression widening in surprise as she stood to meet her. 

“Elphie? Darling, you’re positively fuming. What happened?” 

Elphaba didn’t reply. She couldn’t. She could feel Fiyero watching her, staring from across the parking lot. He wanted to be with another woman so bad? Fine. Elphaba could play that game too. Without thinking much about it, she grabbed Glinda around the waist and pulled her closer. The blonde didn’t even get a say as she grabbed her cheek and kissed her. It wasn’t a peck either, but a real kiss. One that lingered just a bit too long. 

Only after the red had faded from her eyes did Elphaba realize what she’d done. Fuck fuck fuck! Releasing her prisoner, Glinda was seemingly frozen. Her normally ashen face had blazed the most ferocious shade of pink Elphaba had ever seen, practically red at the ears. The kiss had the desired effect. Fiyero was already stomping from the parking lot in an absolute tizzy. But at what cost?

“G—Galinda! I um…?” Elphaba still had her hand on the woman’s waist, clenched in the fabric of her white overcoat. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t…I…?” She felt like crying. She’d just found stability and now she’d gone and fucked it up. Why was she such an idiot? “I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry. Please forgive me.” 

“Elphie…” 

“Galinda I’m sorry.” Tears rolled down her cheeks, catching in her eczema and between her lips. Elphaba expected to be shoved away. To be hit, or denied, or angrily turned away. She was expecting this woman who’d just lost her husband to never want to see her again. Instead, she felt it as two hands grabbed onto her face, pulling her closer. Being kissed back was not what she was expecting to happen. Her boldness lost, Elphaba inhaled sharply as her companion moved closer, their hips flush together. Glinda tasted sweet, her tongue forcing its way between her tear-moistened lips. They kissed until they were breathless, pulling away but remaining only a nose apart. 

“…Elphie,” Glinda croaked, arms wrapping over her neck and staying there. “Elphie, it’s ok.” 

“I’m a terrible mother, Glinda,” she whispered, melting into the woman’s embrace as her back rose and fell in painful shudders. “I can’t do this.” 

“It’ll be ok. I promise it’ll be ok.” 

“How is any of this ok? How can you be sure.” 

“Because I’m here with you,” Glinda insisted. “Whatever you need, Miss Elphaba, I’m here. I promise.”

Chapter Text

Stupid. Idiot. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid! 

Elphaba paced from one side of the bedroom to the other, hitting herself with both hands as she walked. Why did she do that! What was wrong with her? Yes, she was angry with Fiyero. Yes, she wanted to make a point. Yes she wanted him to be jealous cause that’s how she always felt when he fooled around. But why did she do that? 

“Fucking idiot,” Elphaba spat under her breath, grabbing her braids and pulling them hard. The entire way home from the park she’d wanted to steer into traffic head on. The silence was palpable. Glinda refused to even look at her, choosing instead to focus on her phone or out the window. The only one in the car who wasn’t silent was Peaches, which helped only minimally in breaking the awkwardness. “Dumbass. Dumbass, Elphaba.” 

Elphaba didn’t consider herself to be impulsive. She’d never been impulsive like that before today. Just being in Fiyero’s proximity brought out the absolute worst in her. It was hard to admit, but she felt utterly betrayed. All this time she tried her best to move on; to make a life that was suitable for Liir but completely ignoring herself. And Fiyero somehow managed to find another woman in half the time? Horseshit. It just wasn’t fair. Elphaba growled between her clenched teeth, the muscle in her jaw flexing. Her long nails cut half moons into her palms as she turned, tracing a rut into the hardwood floor. 

Maybe she should just cut her losses and leave now. Try, at the very least, to keep her dignity intact. Pausing to catch a breath, one hand on her forehead while the other rested on her hip, Elphaba was so distracted by her thoughts that she jumped as there was a light knock in the doorway. 

“Elphaba?” 

“G—Galinda.” Gulping hard, it felt and tasted like tar. The blonde looked…subdued, somewhat. She was in a big comfy sweater already, hair messily braided and brown eyes faintly red ringed. She’d been crying. Elphie made her cry. Shit. “I…?” 

“Elphie, I told you that you could call me Glinda.” 

“I know. But it—I just…it doesn’t feel right.” Elphaba grabbed the hem of her tank top, shifting from one foot to another as though the floor was made of hot coals. “Ga—Glinda—I’m so sorry.” 

“So you’ve said at least a dozen times already,” Glinda croaked, stepping over the threshold and into the bedroom. Elphaba only now noticed she held two glasses of wine, though one of them (her own, no doubt) was significantly bigger than the other. She lifted the smaller glass. “Wine. Helps with the nerves.” 

“Glinda, please.” Elphaba felt it as panic swirled in her heart. She was a complete wreck and expected her companion to be the same. But Glinda was uncommonly steady, if not slightly drunk. “Is now really the time for wine?” 

“There’s never a bad time for wine, darling,” the blonde noted breezily. “You’ll sooner form a tornado with all the pacing you’ve been doing in here.” 

“Glinda, I crossed a line. I disrespected you. I—I…fuck, I was in your personal space, I ignored your boundaries…” 

“You certainly crossed an HR boundary,” Glinda mused simply, swirling her drink. She didn’t sit down, rather choosing to shuffle around the room in her socks while nursing her cup of red. “Good thing I own HR.” 

“Glinda, for Lurline’s sake.” Elphaba dragged both hands down her face. “Aren’t you upset with me?” 

“Mmm. That is a question.” Glinda’s narrow finger traced the edge of her glass, causing it to vibrate the liquid inside. “Its hard to say.” 

“I can pack my things.” Elphaba didn’t mean to say it out loud but the words tumbled from her lips before she could stop them. “I’ll take Liir and go. You’ll never have to see me again, I swear.” 

“What are you talking about?” 

“You…aren’t you firing me?” Elphaba slumped, her arms dropping limply to her sides as Glinda arched a blonde brow. 

“Darling, if I were going to fire you, you’d be gone by now.” 

“But…?” 

“Elphie. I may not know the most about you, but I know you’re too smart to hurt me on purpose.” 

“What?” 

“Emotions are messy. And you, Miss Thropp, are terrible at letting yourself feel them.” 

Elphaba frowned, somewhat affronted by the statement. “I feel emotions just fine.” 

“Pardon my saying so, Elphie, but you seem to repress rather than express most of the time,” Glinda pointed out, avoiding Elphaba’s eye as she sipped her wine. “It’s why when you do feel things, they explode in your face.” 

“I don’t believe that.” 

“Today wouldn’t have happened if you had control of yourself, Elphaba.” Glinda’s tone changed, losing its tipsy air in favor of something firmer. The chilly stare was set in her brown eyes now, causing Elphaba’s skin to prickle. “You barely spoke to Fiyero before you were at each others throats.” 

“Because he’s…ugh…he’s himself. I’m reminded every time we see each other why we got a divorce.” 

“Elphie, what’s going on?” 

“It’s…it’s nothing.” Elphaba shook her head, folding her arms. She yelped though as fingers pinched the back of her arm hard enough or burn. “Ouch! What was that for?” 

“Don’t you dare shut me out, Elphaba Thropp,” Glinda ordered her. “You get to be a pest towards me, I get to do the same to you. That’s how this works.” 

“We never agreed to that.” 

“You should’ve read the fine print on that contract you signed,” Glinda spit in annoyance. “What. Happened?” 

“Fiyero found another woman. He wants Liir to meet her.” 

“Oh.” 

“It’s not a good thing,” Elphaba growled, irritated at Glinda’s somewhat unimpressed tone. “I’ve been fighting that man for almost a year trying to get child support paid. But oh no, ‘I have no job’ or ‘I have no house’. Nevermind that this is his son too. But he suddenly finds another woman—a woman with her own kids—and he’s a golden boy again? He’s getting back in shape, he has a job, he wants Liir to meet her? What the fuck is that all about? He can’t just…dump this family for another one, that useless, brainless bastard!” 

Elphaba clenched her fists till her knuckles felt ready to pop out of her eczema-ridden skin, resisting the urge to punch something as she huffed. Fiyero. 

“…Elphie?” 

“I loved that man once, Glinda.” Elphaba’s lip was wobbling dangerously, a band suddenly clenched around her lungs, keeping them from expanding. “I wanted to have a baby with him. And he’s just…throwing all of it away for someone else?” 

“Oh, Elphaba…” 

“It’s all my fault.” Elphaba grabbed her face, pushing her glasses up her nose and pinching the place between her eyes. “I was so stupid.” 

“Elphie, you’re not stupid.” 

Feeling hands gently grab onto her arm, Elphaba followed them as she was guided to sit on the edge of the bed. Glinda joined her there, though there was a valley of space between them that felt like a country. She was keeping her distance. “If I may be so bold?” 

“What?” 

“It’s ok to still love him.” 

“I don’t.” Elphaba didn’t mean to spit venom at her friend, but it just came out wrong. She immediately clacked her jaw shut. “Glinda I’m sorry…” 

“Don’t be. If anyone is an expert in loving someone who can’t love them back, it’s me.” Glinda’s joke caused Elphaba’s chest to constrict again as the blonde dropped her head, her expression that of grief. “You loved Fiyero once, and I’m sure he loved you too. I saw the way he ran for you the day of the apartment fire. And he came to the hospital that day to get Liir when you asked. He hasn’t missed weekend visits, he calls, and Liir adores him. And though he may not be the best father in your eyes, he’s found his footing and is going to support you, just like you’ve asked him too.” 

“But he could’ve…” 

“I know he could’ve, Elphie.” Glinda gently touched Elphaba’s hand, but pulled it away just as fast, bringing the palms into her lap instead. “But that’s not right now. And there’s nothing that can be done to fix what could’ve been. You have a fire inside you, Elphaba Thropp. A fire to live. A fire to be there for your son as he grows up. I can’t tell you to let it go, because you’ve every right to be hurt. To feel like your heart is breaking into a million pieces. But it seems to me that the person causing you the most pain…is yourself.” 

Elphaba said nothing, closing her eyes to feel the warmth that was Galinda Upland. She was suddenly aware of the ghosts all around her. Not just the one sitting beside her, either, but the ghosts of her own creation. The life she wanted to make with Fiyero when they first got together. The fear of the pregnancy test. The freedom of leaving home, eating bad hot dogs from a stand in front of the court house. She had plenty of good memories with her ex-husband, the happiest being any with their son. 

It was her who pushed for divorce. Her who made the choice to cut Fiyero out of her life, knowing full-well they no longer worked. She moved on from him—she thought she moved on from him—but maybe she hadn’t. Fiyero was moving on…she was just stuck in the same unhappy loop, stewing in her anger. 

“But I don’t understand, Elphaba.” Elphaba blinked out of her thoughts, lifting her head. Glinda was staring very intently at seemingly nothing at all. “Why did you do that?” 

“Do…what?” 

Glinda turned to stare at her, face gloriously illuminated by low lamplight. Fuck, she was stunning. 

“Kiss me?” 

“I…” Elphaba thought of lying. She maybe could’ve gotten away with it, seeing as the entire thing had just been a whirlwind. But she didn’t want to lie to Glinda. She deserved an explanation. “I was being spiteful.” 

“Spiteful.” 

“Fiyero is really good at fooling around,” Elphaba admitted, screwing up her face. “He’s got those good looks. It annoyed me to no end while we were still together. It was stupid of me; I just…” 

“You wanted to make him jealous?” 

“Yeah.” Elphaba averted her eyes in shame. “I’m sorry, Glinda.” 

“You were right earlier, you know. You did cross a boundary, Miss Elphaba,” Glinda replied, her feet swinging over the edge of the bed as she played with her fingertips. “And I don’t…I didn’t…appreciate it.” 

Elphaba winced. Glinda was upset. She’d fucked up. Badly. 

“I can go, if you want,” Elphaba offered again. “Glinda, I feel horrible.” 

“I know you do, Elphie.” 

“Can I ask, though?” 

“About what?” 

“Why’d you kiss me back?” 

Glinda said nothing. She refused to look up, thumb twirling her wedding band. Her narrow fingers shook as she tilted her head ever so slightly. “I don’t know. I meant what I said, Elphie. I’ll be here for you, whatever you need. It’s the least I can do. But please…please…don’t do that again. Ok?”

Elphaba felt something icy spread in her chest as Glinda stood up. She looked small in her oversized clothing, brown eyes red ringed and threatening tears again as she held herself. The woman was still spinning her wedding band, her bony knuckles pale as frost. “Goodnight, Elphaba.” 

“Goodnight, Glinda.” 

Turning her head to watch the other woman leave, closing the door softly behind her, Elphaba released a breath as she collapsed onto her back. She stared at the ceiling long and hard, removing her glasses and allowing her eyes to go blurry. 

What had she done?

Chapter Text

Elphaba was woken up the next morning by someone poking her ribs. She thought she’d just imagined it at first; it was a tiny pinch of pressure against the skin under her tank top. She could’ve just been lying funny. But the feeling was soon followed by another poke, and another, and another. Groaning as her eyes fluttered open, the ceiling was a bleary haze through her crusty lashes. 

Blindly grabbing her glasses and putting them on, Elphaba yawned and rolled over for a stretch, only to nearly fall off the bed at the pair of baby blue eyes staring intently down her nose. 

“Peaches!” Placing a hand on her collarbones to stop her rapidly beating heart, Elphaba crawled into a sitting position, leaning over her crossed knees. She was surprised to find Glinda’s mini-me already dressed for the day, her long tendrils of golden hair knotted in a yellow elastic, the vibrancy of her sunny dress much too bright for an early morning. Bending awkwardly over a crutch, the girl held a box in her other arm, awkwardly depositing it into the nest of emerald covers. 

Pancake mix. Right. It was Sunday. 

Sighing long and deep from lingering tiredness, making pancakes was the last thing Elphaba really wanted to do. But she couldn’t say no to the child already hurrying towards the door, hair flying and crutches clattering. Knowing Peaches would just come back if she didn’t follow, Elphaba didn’t bother with getting dressed. She scooped up the pancake mix, scratching at the eczema patches which had formed along her neck during the night. 

“…I told you to handle it, but did you? No. Pfannee, I’m getting tired of you and Shenshen not being able to keep things in order if I step away…” 

Elphaba tilted her head at the sound of Glinda’s voice. It was on edge, its usual tittering lilt completely chased off by stress. Stepping out into the living room, the blonde in question was hurrying around the room, grabbing things to throw into her big white purse. She was still on the phone, the device held between her shoulder and ear. “If this keeps happening, a demotion might be in order. Yes, it’s perfectly reasonable. If you can’t manage the single job I pay you to do, why would I pay you at all?” Glinda whipped around, her corn-gold hair freshly washed and styled, shimmering down her back in beach waves. 

Elphaba forgot what Glinda looked like when she was fully put together. Yes, she always looked put together. But being dressed and being dressed for work were two very different things. The white cotton suit was fitted to the woman’s curves, while her high heels accentuated her legs and the elegant arch of her spine. A familiar silver watch glittered on her wrist, matching a string of pearls, silver earrings, and her wedding ring. 

Not realizing she was staring, Elphaba stiffened as Glinda turned to pace the other direction across the room, nearly falling over when they finally made eye contact. She blinked as though caught in a pair of headlights, opening her mouth, but having no words come out. They stood like that for a while, just…staring. But Glinda was quick to bounce back, shaking her head and turning her head back into the call. 

“We’ll discuss this in person, Pfannee. I have to go. I have to go. My office better be spotless when I get there.” Hanging up with a flourish, Glinda gave her an apologetic but terse look. “Sorry, Elphie. Did I wake you up?” 

“Erm…no.” Elphaba held up the pancake mix, causing Glinda to sigh in exasperation. “Your mini-me has that handled.” 

“Peaches.” 

“What’s going on?”

“Elphie, I’m so sorry. But I have to go.” 

“Go? It’s Sunday?” 

“Yes, but business doesn’t wait. There’s an emergency at the office that needs my immediate attention.” 

“I’m guessing it’s not Pfannee and Shenshen wanting to buy more communal coffee filters?” 

Glinda chuffed and shook her head, throwing a few more things into her bag. “Unfortunately not. But since you’re here.” Diving into her purse, the blonde held out a piece of paper. “I need you to sign this.” 

“Oh.” Confused, Elphaba crossed the room. The was struck immediately by Glinda’s sweet smelling perfume and how the triangle of skin exposed by her jacket lapels shined with body glitter. Not the time. “What is it?” 

“Hmm? Oh! Just some final paperwork for your employment. Don’t dawdle, I’m already late.” 

Furrowing her brows, Elphaba went into the kitchen for a pen as Glinda continued to tear apart the living room like an expensive tornado. Peaches was waiting expectantly at the kitchen table. Placing the paper on the island, Elphaba was surprised to find a rather large box already there. Signing and dating the sheet without actually checking what it was, Glinda snatched it back as she entered, throwing open the fridge to grab an orange. 

“What’s this?” 

“What’s what, darling?” 

“The box?” 

“Oh! That’s for you, actually.” Glinda smiled, her eyes crinkling. “Well, not for you, specifically, but for Liir. He wouldn’t stop telling me yesterday about a pair of shoes he’d seen? They apparently…um…?” Glinda made a sparkling motion with her hands. “Illuminate.” 

Elphaba held back an eye roll, but did toss her head a bit. “You did not buy my son light up shoes.” 

Glinda pouted. “Of course I did! I don’t mind.” 

“Glinda…” 

“Darling, please. I’ve run out of things to buy for myself. Let me indulge, won’t you?” 

“He should have to work for the things he wants, Glinda. A reward.” 

“Well, then you can give them to him after his first day of school tomorrow,” Glinda offered, sniffing a little in exasperation. “Seeing as you won’t let me buy you things, Miss Elphaba, at least let me buy things for your child.” 

“Can we at least talk about it next time?” 

“If you insist,” Glinda shrugged, using a knife to cut open her breakfast while also signing something to Peaches, who frowned unhappily. Elphaba tilted her head at the delivery box again. 

“Seems like an awfully big box for a pair of shoes.” 

“Hmm. I thought so too, but you know the mail carriers these days. Always shoving things into a box twice its size.” 

Nodding her understanding, Elphaba shook off the strange prickly feeling down her spine. It was just a box. She was overreacting. Turning back to Glinda, the woman had wrapped up her orange slices, shoving them into her purse. 

“Are you sure it’s safe?” 

“Don’t worry, Elphie. It’s not that far.” 

“Do you want me to come with you?” 

For the first time, Glinda seemed to stop. She fully paused, seemingly frozen with indecision. But her knuckles rolled around the strap of her purse, the skin white from the pressure as she pursed her lips and shook her head. 

“No, I don’t think that’s necessary. I’d much rather you stay here with Peaches. The building has its own security and the parking garage is gated.” 

“That somehow doesn’t make me feel any better.” 

“It’ll be alright. I don’t need to be babysat every second of every day.” 

“I’d disagree, but I’m guessing you don’t really care.” 

“Not particularly.” 

“It really can’t wait till my friend gets here tomorrow? He can accompany you anywhere you need to go.” 

“Elphaba, it will be fine.” Glinda reached out, seemingly to touch her arm. But the pale fingers halted before quickly retracting, returning to their place gripped around her purse strap. “Just make sure Peaches does her spelling packet. And tomorrow…tomorrow she’ll go with Liir to school.” 

“You’re letting her go?” Elphaba’s brows popped up in surprise. “Really?” 

“I can’t keep her cooped up in here. It’ll drive both of us insane. Not only that, but I may need your help in the office after…” Glinda trailed off, her own thought being cut short. 

“After what?” 

“After the funeral.” Glinda looked away, her brown irises shimmering with barely withheld tears. “I can’t put it off anymore. It’s two weeks from today. I…I’ll need you there.” 

“I wouldn’t miss it.” 

“Hmm. Yes, I’d like to not be there myself. It’s unfortunate that I’m hosting.” Glinda sneered at her own joke, rounding the island to place a kiss on Peaches cheek. “I’ll be back tonight, don’t wait up for me.” 

Following the woman through the kitchen and to the garage door, Elphaba’s eyes popped open as she entered. She hadn’t actually been in the garage yet, seeing as her car was parked outside in the driveway. But as Glinda pulled a soft blue sheet off a beautiful, pearlescent-colored convertible, Elphaba couldn’t help but gawk. It wasn’t just beautiful, it was expensive. 

“What is that?” 

“This? It was a gift.” Glinda opened the door, dropping into the plush leather seats. She slipped a pair of big glasses over her face, both hands on the steering wheel as she started it up. 

“Glinda.” 

“What is it, Elphie?” 

“Just…just be careful, ok?” 

“I will. You’ll look after Peaches?” 

“With my life.” 

Glinda gave her a tight smile, the sports car revving loudly as it tore from the garage and vanished down the driveway and onto the street. Elphaba watched the woman go with some sense of dread, nervously picking at her lower lip. Hopefully nothing would happen. Closing the garage door and heading back inside, Peaches was still at the table when Elphaba returned, picking up the pancake mix. 

Breakfast went off without a hitch, though the itchy crawling of her skin was only getting worse. Elphaba pushed it down. She was just freaking out that Glinda was away from the house by herself. Nothing was wrong. She was being stupid. Sending Peaches into the living room to finish her packet after eating, Elphaba mindlessly cleaned her mess, pausing as a low thump reached her ears.

Puzzled, she turned around in confusion. Elphaba expected to see her ward in the doorway, maybe wanting a juice or something and knocking on the doorway to get her attention. But there was no one. Strange. Shaking it off as just the house settling, Elphaba began to clean up to burn time. She went around from room to room with the broom and vacuum cleaner, fixing whatever had been neglected the previous week. Unfortunately it didn’t take long, seeing as Glinda was quite neat and tended to pick up after herself. 

Mindlessly she wandered around the house completing tasks. After cleaning she did a few loads of laundry, followed by a bit of reading on the sofa while Peaches watched TV. They went on a short walk outside, played a board game which Elphaba lost miserably at, and eventually the little blonde fell asleep for a nap just before lunchtime. All things considered, it had been a very uneventful morning despite Glinda’s whirlwind departure. Elphaba regularly checked her phone, just in case. But no updates from her employer came. That either meant nothing was wrong, or even worse, everything was wrong. 

The uncomfortable feeling in her skin never faded either. Despite everything going smoothly, Elphaba still felt like something was about to go sideways. She checked all the doors, making sure they were locked. She peeked out the windows, looking for black cars or strange figures. And when the doorbell rang about ten-minutes to noon, she nearly jumped out of her skin. Quaking with anxiety but leaving Peaches on the sofa to sleep, Elphaba checked the peephole, half-expecting Oscar Diggs to be standing on the porch. 

But it was just another delivery man with a package. 

Forcing herself to relax and opening the door, the guy smiled and tilted his hat. “Delivery for the Upland house?” 

“Yeah. That’s us.” 

“Just sign here, please.” 

Signing for the box which the man passed over, he bid her a good day and left. Closing the door again and locking it tight, Elphaba stared at the package now in her hands. It was the appropriate size for a shoebox. The dread once again reared in her gut. Something was terribly wrong. Whipping herself into the kitchen fast enough to nearly slip on the tile, the new box in her hands clattered to the floor at what she saw. The package on the counter had fallen onto its side, the flaps wide open. A mess of straw spilled across the marble and it smelled distinctly putrid. 

Heart racing as she approached the fallen container, it was obvious now that it wasn’t a pair of shoes. The box was empty now, but as Elphaba lifted one of the flaps for a better look, a clear, twisted mess of dead, scaly skin had been left behind. Snake skin? If there was snake skin, that could only mean…there was a snake to go with it. Gasping in fear, Elphaba turned when she heard something slipping across the floor, a low, bone chilling hissing sound accompanying it. She was too late to see the reptile, but its black tail vanished into the shadows under the sofa. 

“Peaches!” Sprinting towards the living room, Elphaba hurdled the couch, her bare feet twisting in the carpet. She grabbed the child from her sleep just as a black head was peeking up over the cushions, searching for the warmest thing around. Unfortunately, it was an agitated, freshly shed creature. Elphaba swung the little girl away from the danger, but wasn’t fast enough as the snake struck at her arm, one that was just a bit too close to its face. 

She screamed as it bit her, the sharp pain quick to burn like fire. Swinging her arm out purely on instinct, the snake flew off her skin and hit the nearest wall with a thud, crumbling in a scaly coil to the ground. Shoving Peaches into the hallway, Elphaba grabbed the coal shovel from the fireplace mantle, running towards the snake and bringing its sharp edge down onto its spine. 

There was a horrible snap of bone and ribs as she practically decapitated it, kicking the body with her foot into the far corner. Heaving with adrenaline, Elphaba dropped her weapon with a clatter, running back to Peaches who was pale as a sheet and crying in fright. Grabbing the child’s shoulders and looking her over for any injuries, Elphaba wanted to try calming her down. But her forearm was blazing like it was in a bonfire. Gripping it with a hiss of her own, the snake bite was oozing blood. 

“Shit.” Leaving Peaches where she was, Elphaba blearily searched her body for her phone. She’d left it in the bedroom that morning. Stumbling, Elphaba didn’t make it that far. Everything was spinning, while the burning had spread up her elbow and into her shoulder. Clawing at the walls to stay upright and reach her room, Elphaba felt it as her knees buckled from her bodyweight. She hit the floor with a painful thump, unable to move as whatever venom made its way into her blood. 

“Peaches.” Struggling to keep her eyes open, a figure in bright yellow fabric came into sight. She couldn’t hear her. Peaches couldn’t hear her. “Peaches…” fighting to lift her hand, Elphaba struggled to remember what little sign language she knew before everything went completely dark. 

Call. Help.

Chapter Text

“…Galinda, you know I can make this all go away. It would be my pleasure to do so.” 

“Leave me alone, Oscar.” 

“Was this not a close enough call? Hmm? My dear, something so much worse could happen than this. To you, to these strays that you’ve found, to that precious little girl you love so much—?” 

“Is that a threat, Oz?” 

“It’s not a threat, my dear. It’s a promise.” 

Elphaba couldn’t move a muscle. She was awake. She could hear everything, her eyes struggling to part. The room was nearly dark, a blue hue cast across everything and casting strange shadows. Elphaba knew what a hospital looked like. She could see the shine of an IV tree, and feel the rough medical bedding under her fingertips. But the room was empty—almost dream-like—as a tall, dark silhouette pushed a smaller one against the wall with enough force to thump. 

Glinda squeaked in pain, Oz’s hand up against her neck and pressing into the skin. She thrashed a bit, but stopped as a knee was forced into her hipbone, halting her squirming. 

“Let…go. P—please, Oz.” 

“You’re trying my patience, Miss Upland. Westin put me through too much, and you are no different; I deserve my share of what we created together.” 

“You betrayed him.” Glinda could hardly speak, her pale skin practically reflective in the moonlight. “He trusted you, Oscar.” 

“We built that fortune together. It was never yours to take.” 

“I am helping people. That’s all Westin ever wanted.” 

“Westin was a spineless fool,” Oscar spat, pressing his knee even harder into Glinda’s pelvis as she winced, clawing desperately at the man’s arm which still put pressure against her throat. “I’m giving you one last chance, Galinda. Just one. Give me my share or this continues. I don’t care who gets in my way.” 

“No.” 

“You test me.” Glinda yelped again as Oscar tightened his grip. Elphaba wanted nothing more than to lunge from the bed; she wanted to take his teeth out herself. But her body wouldn’t respond. She was completely paralyzed, only able to watch as Galinda’s skin faded to an almost ghostly pallor as she choked.

“K—ill me, Oscar. See if I—I care.” 

Oz chuckled, leaning in close as he pressed his nose to the place behind Glinda’s ear. She tried to pull away, only for the man’s rough thumbs to press into her delicate flesh. “You know I can’t kill you, Miss Upland. I need you to give me what I want; there’s no other way. But have no doubt, my dark eyed beauty, that I will continue to make your life miserable until you break. This won’t just go away; you know that.” 

“Go to hell, Oscar.” 

Elphaba saw the change. She saw how Oz stiffened, his jaw clenching. Glinda fell as she was released, practically thrown to the ground as she sputtered and coughed for a breath. 

“You’ll regret rejecting my offers, Miss Upland. Mark my words. Magdeline?” 

Another figure emerged from the shadows, hidden just beyond where Elphaba could see without turning her head. “Yes, sir?”  

“Make sure the message gets across clearly.” 

“Of course, sir.” 

“You have twenty-four hours. When you change your mind—which I know you will—come to the Emerald City. I’ll be waiting.” 

Glinda didn’t reply, still struggling on the floor as Madame Morrible approached, grabbing a handful of long blonde hair and pulling on it.  

No. No, no, no! Elphaba urged her body to move, to shift, to do anything at all. But she was completely immobilized. Oz left the room, but his secretary stayed. And despite being in mostly darkness, there was nothing but malicious hatred in her eyes. Fighting to intervene, the spike in her heart rate must’ve triggered the hospital equipment. There was a beep and a whirr from the IV tree, something hot releasing from a tube and flowing into her elbow. 

Shit. No! No! Elphaba fought it, she fought with everything she was not to go under. But the drugs were strong and she was exhausted. As her eyes began to flutter, the last thing she saw was Morrible removing a small device from her pocket. It was unmarked, but had two silver prongs glistening at one end as a blue arc of electricity buzzed between them. 

Glinda’s shriek of pain echoed in Elphaba’s ears, her heart breaking as everything faded into a horrible, helpless darkness.

Chapter Text

Elphaba’s eyes snapped open. 

It felt like she’d just come out of a dark tunnel, dreamless as it was endless. Staring up at an unfamiliar cork-board ceiling, her skin felt tight across her bones like brittle paper mache. She inhaled deeply once, then twice, just to make sure she could. Her throat was a little dry, but the air went down as it was meant to. Cautiously, Elphaba tested out her limbs. She started by curling her toes and bending her knees, followed by a slow shift of her hips, a roll of her taught shoulders, and touching each fingertip to the pad of her thumb. The previous feeling of being paralyzed crept back into her gut like ice. 

Thankfully, the sensation was temporary. 

Remaining very still to allow her brain to catch up with the rest of her, Elphaba didn’t notice someone humming softly until it broke through the fog resting on her brain. Turning her head, Elphaba wasn’t sure who she was expecting. But, like every time they ran into one another at the house, Glinda was always the last person she expected to see. The memories of what she’d seen came flooding back, hitting her like a brick. They’d hurt her. They were hurting her and she couldn’t do a thing to stop it. 

“…Glin…” Elphaba was embarrassed at how her voice fell off. It was so weak. Staring across the room, it was a bit hard to make out any sharp details without her glasses. But Glinda was sitting in a chair by the window, bathed in the glow of a quickly dying afternoon. She was stroking Peaches hair, the six-year-old awkwardly sprawled across two cushions as she rested against her mother’s thigh. Despite not seeing her face clearly, Elphaba wasn’t expecting her companion to be so calm. She was downright serene, her hair loose and glowing in the beams of golden-hour sunshine. 

The blur of her own eyes betrayed her, making Glinda somehow even more beautiful than usual despite the circumstances. Elphaba clenched the bedsheets, summoning her strength. “Glinda?” 

The name came out better this time and was loud enough to finally get her friends' attention. Glinda stopped humming, her hand pausing in Peaches hair.

“Elphie.” She stood without hesitation, elegantly replacing her thigh with a spare pillow as Peaches slept on unbothered. Approaching the bed, Elphaba was staring up at her boss and roomate, squinting to try and see her more clearly. “Hold on, darling. You’re missing something.” 

There was a momentary shuffle as Glinda gently slipped Elphaba’s glasses onto her face. This revealed the woman in better clarity and she looked…pristine. But how? “Elphie? Are you ok? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” 

“You…?” Elphaba shifted, struggling a little to lift her head. “Are you ok?” 

“Am I ok?” Glinda’s brown eyes widened. “I’m not the one in the hospital bed this time, Miss Elphaba. What sort of question is that?” 

“Oz and Morrible?” Elphaba couldn’t continue. She urgently gave Glinda a once over, just to be sure. She was in one of her heavy turtleneck sweaters, the kind that went all the way up to the underside of her chin and covered her knuckles. Elphaba couldn’t see any part of her companion besides her face. “What happened?” 

Glinda stared at her in silence for a moment, then smiled. It was an expression that was too soft and too calm to be real. Glinda picked up Elphaba’s hand, revealing how cold her fingertips were. The brush of her wedding ring was chilly enough to burn. 

“I think you must’ve been dreaming, Elphie.” 

It felt like Elphaba had been slapped. No. No, that wasn’t right. “Glinda, they were hurting you! I saw it.” 

Glinda shook her head. “No one was hurting me, darling. You were having a nightmare. Medications do that sometimes.” 

“Glinda I know what I saw. What did they do to you?” 

“Elphie, you’re working yourself up for no reason. Settle, please.”   

Glinda wasn’t ok. Elphaba knew Glinda wasn’t ok. But it felt like the wind had been completely stripped from her lungs. She knew what she’d seen. She knew it was real…right? 

“How are you feeling otherwise?” 

“A—A bit tired, I guess?” Elphaba hesitantly lifted a hand, flexing her fingers as she rubbed grit from her face. “What happened?” 

“What do you remember?” 

“There was a fucking snake in that box.” 

“Elphie, the language isn’t necessary.” 

“Sorry.” 

“Did you kill the snake?”

“Yeah, I cut off its head. But it still got its teeth into me.” 

Glinda hummed, shifting her grip a little to lift Elphaba’s forearm. It was bandaged up to the elbow, a fat piece of gauze hidden underneath. 

“It’s a good thing you’re so fit, Miss Elphaba. The doctors say that if the snake had been just a little bit bigger, it would’ve killed you.” 

“Lucky me.” 

“Elphie, you saved my daughter’s life. You do realize that, don’t you? If that thing had bitten her instead? I—” Glinda’s words halted with a crack. She released Elphaba’s arm, hugging herself. “Oh gods, Elphie, I was so scared.” 

“That snake wasn’t meant for Peaches, Glinda,” Elphaba insisted, walking up on her hands to sit up. “You know that.” 

“I’m just glad you were there.” Glinda exhaled, pulling awkwardly at the bottom hem of her sweater so it rested down past her hip. How she sidestepped her own life being in danger—again—didn’t escape Elphie’s notice.

“I passed out.” 

“Yes.” 

“I was unconscious.” 

“Yes, Elphie. You were in a bad state.” 

“How did I get here?” 

Glinda hesitated. Elphaba reached out for her, only to pause as the other woman pulled her arm away, tucking it safely in her lap. “Glinda. Please, talk to me?” 

“Peaches…um…she called 911.” Glinda’s voice trembled as she spoke, her brown eyes glancing away from Elphaba’s as her pristine, calm facade finally began to break down. “She used her voice for you, Elphie. I hope you know how special that is.” 

“She’s only six.” 

“We taught Peaches how to call for an emergency when she was young,” Glinda explained. “But she’s never had to actually do it before. But she managed it to save your life. She’s been worried about you. She wouldn’t stop asking when we could see you.”

“How long have I been here?” 

“Only about a day and a half. But it certainly felt longer.” Glinda smiled tightly, but it didn’t reach her eyes. The woman stood from the bed, walking to where Peaches was still asleep. Elphaba awkwardly shifted as the little girl was shaken awake, her big blue eyes bulging and red ringed from tears as they groggily opened. Glinda picked her daughter up, but was forced to stop about halfway. Elphaba couldn’t tell what was wrong until she noticed her companions ruffled brow, and the flicker of her lip into a grimace as she hauled Peaches into her arms. 

Pain. 

“Here we are.” Returning to the bedside, Peaches still looked a little tired as Glinda slowly lowered herself again, the mattress slinking under the combined weight. “See? She’s fine. All those tears for nothing.” Using a thumb to wipe at Peaches face, Elphaba felt guilty for worrying her. No doubt the child had been terrified, yet somehow managed to get to the phone and call for help. Awkwardly lifting a hand, Elphaba’s forarm shook a little as she spoke to the girl. 

Thank you. 

Peaches smiled, though it was an exhausted expression. The child was looking more and more like her mother each day; including the not so happy parts. The girl signed something to Glinda, who tilted her head. It was a permission of some kind as Peaches crawled out of her mother’s arms, bullying her way into Elphaba’s company and curling up. 

“She wants to feel your heart,” Glinda said, tapping her chest with a finger. “Just to make sure.” 

“I didn’t mean to scare her.” 

“It wasn’t your fault. If anyone is to blame here it’s me.” Glinda shook her head. “This could’ve been so much worse, Elphie.” 

“I know Morrible and Oz were here, Glinda,” Elphaba said, keeping her voice firm. She wasn’t going to let Glinda push her away from this. She knew it wasn’t a dream. She saw how her companion was gentle with her body; how she occasionally pulled at the neck of her sweater. Glinda was lying to her, and she wasn’t going to just let her get away with that. “What did they do?” 

“It’s nothing that you need to worry about, darling,” Glinda said, rising from the bed and turning her back. Elphaba didn’t miss how the woman pulled at her shirt, keeping it from riding up her hip. She hadn’t noticed before, but Glinda was walking with the slightest of limps, and was wearing practical flats rather than her very tall high heels. “I need to go speak to the nurse about discharge paperwork.” 

“Glinda—” 

“I’ll be right back.” 

“Glinda!” 

Glinda didn’t turn around. She escaped through the door like a ghost, leaving the room empty. Growling in frustration at being so flippantly brushed off, Elphaba sat back against the pillows. Peaches was unwilling to move from her chest, clutched onto the front of her gown, cheek pressed against her sternum. “Oh, Peaches.” Playing with long, unkempt strands of blonde hair between her fingertips, Elphaba stared daggers at the door. “What are we going to do with her?”

Chapter Text

“Mom!” 

Elphaba still had Peaches in her arms as a familiar head of curly dark hair shot through the door. She knew the slap of her son’s footsteps anywhere, a deep sigh of relief leaving her chest. 

“Liir. Hey, bub.” 

Liir, dressed uncommonly neat in a rumpled white collared shirt, blue shorts and his new light up sneakers, scrambled to get onto the bed. He had a piece of paper clenched in one hand, using the other to balance himself on his bent knees. 

“Are you ok, Mom? Miss Galinda said you were sick.” 

“I’m feeling a lot better now,” Elphie reassured, shifting a little in the bed to move Peaches to a better position, allowing Liir to sit beside her. 

“Is Peaches ok?” 

“Just a bit tired. What have you been up to this weekend, huh? Did you enjoy your visit with dad?” 

“Yeah! I met this lady that he invited over. She was super nice and made really good fresh rolls.” 

Elphaba tried not to screw up her face. Fiyero. She knew he would do whatever it was he pleased, with or without her permission. He just asked her to feel less guilty about it. Pushing the anger and jealousy away—knowing how poorly it ended the last time—Elphaba gave her best fake smile. 

“That’s nice. Did she…uh…bring anyone else?” 

Liir shook his head, causing Elphaba to tilt her head. “No, it was just her. We all went to the mall together and dad got me a new box of build-a-bricks and a big ice cream cone.” 

“I see.” Maybe Fiyero had actually listened to her after all, if only partially. She knew how heartbroken Liir would be, having to share his dad with other boys. Peaches was fine since she was a girl. And Elphie made sure Liir had just as much attention as he did before. She doubted Fiyero would have that much forethought with more than one child in the house. 

“Yeah. And then when Miss Galinda picked me up, she gave me these really cool shoes. See!” Liir straightened out his feet, tapping his feet together to get the bottoms to flash. But Elphaba was more distracted by what came before that. 

“Glinda picked you up?” 

“Yeah. She said you were sick so she was doing it instead of you.” Liir’s little brows scrunched. “Are you really ok, mom? The last time we were here was when I got my cast off.” 

“I promise I’m fine, bubs.” 

“I made this for you at school!” Liir held out the paper. Elphaba couldn’t grab it, seeing as her hands were occupied by two six-year-olds. But it was a crude drawing of—what she could only assume—was them. Them being all of them, Fiyero, herself, Liir, Peaches, and Glinda. And a dinosaur on a leash for some reason… 

“That…that’s really good, Liir. I love it. We’ll be sure to hang it up when we get home. Did Glinda take you to school today?” 

“No, she was taking care of Peaches today.” 

“Who took you?” 

“Uncle Chistery did.” 

“Chistery?” Elphaba wanted to hit herself. Of course, Chistery was bringing Dr. Turtleheart from Munchkinland today. And she’d missed it. “Of course, it completely slipped my mind.” 

“I had to tell Miss Galinda that Uncle Chistery wasn’t a stranger,” Liir noted factually. “I hope he takes me to get a new airplane soon like he did last time!” 

“Maybe, bubs.” Giving her very best tight smile, Elphaba ran a hand through Liir’s dark curls. Something flickered in the doorway, causing her eyes to find the figure lingering in the hall. Glinda somehow looked paler than when she left, her eye-sockets dark and her narrow hands faintly shaking as she held them in front of her stomach. She looked terrible.  

“Apologies. Am I interrupting?” 

“No.” 

“Hmm.” Glinda entered like a ghost, chewing on her bottom lip. The facade of grace she held earlier was gone; now it looked like she was ready to be sick. “I hope I didn’t overstep? I—I knew you’d want to see Liir, and how you felt about Fiyero this weekend—”

“Glinda, it's fine. Thank you for picking him up; and…erm…I guess for letting my friend into your house?” 

“I was ready to call the police,” Glinda mused, a flicker of annoyance crossing her brows. “I wish you would’ve told me who you were waiting for.” 

“I planned to be there.”

“Yes well, lucky for you Dr. Turtleheart and I have already been acquainted once before.” 

“What?” 

“His husband was a professor of mine at Shiz University. Dr. Dillamond and I…well…never quite saw eye to eye but I passed his class nonetheless. I met his companion at a gala not long after Westin and I were engaged.” 

“Oh. Where are they now?” 

“A hotel a few blocks down. I promised to ring when you were home and well enough for visitors.” 

“Are you well enough for visitors?” 

Glinda blinked. “Yes, of course.” 

“It looks like you’re going to puke.” 

“I don’t have any fondness for hospitals, Miss Elphaba.”  

“I’m aware.” 

“The nurse is finalizing your paperwork now. One more check on your vitals and a few antibiotic prescriptions and we can be on our way. The sooner the better, I think.” 

“Mom?” Liir tugged at Elphaba’s paper sleeve. “Can we get ice cream on the way back?” 

Elphaba barely held back and eye roll, while Glinda just chuckled, though it was weak at best. Approaching the bedside, the blonde gently scooped Peaches into her arms, releasing Elphaba from koala-duty. She didn’t mean to look, but Glinda’s sweater caught a little on the girl's shoe, pulling it up. The small piece of exposed skin was uncommonly dark, mottled with indigo and purple hues. No. 

Glinda immediately pulled the fabric down upon noticing, a sharp inhale catching on the back of her ribs. 

“Glinda…?” 

“I’ll leave you to the nurse,” Glinda croaked, hooking her daughter expertly around her neck. Elphaba didn’t miss how the woman went ashen as her daughters knees pressed into the sides of her ribcage, nor how she limped worse with the added weight. Something was wrong. 

“Glinda, wait.” 

“Elphie, please. Let’s just…do what we must to get out of here, ok?” Glinda shot her a pleading look, one that made her gut twist. The woman held out her spare hand to her son and crooked her fingers. “Liir, come.”  

“Can’t I stay?” 

“No. The nurse will be coming in and your mom needs privacy.” 

“But—”

“Liir, go with Miss Galinda, please,” Elphaba urged, giving her son a gentle nudge. “It’ll be ok.” 

Liir made a noise of discontent but eventually relented, leaving the bed and taking Glinda’s hand. As promised, the nurse came in shortly for one final checkup and instructions to rest and take her medications. Soon, all four of them were in the SUV on the way home. Elphaba didn’t particularly like being the passenger, but Glinda refused to let her drive. The ride was silent besides Liir’s usual chattering about his school day and Peaches clattering leg braces and car seats. 

Elphaba wanted to say something, but she had no words. Glinda was intensity focused on the road, her knuckles white as she clenched the wheel with enough force to break it. She was getting paler and paler with each press of the brakes, while her eyes seemed to vibrate in their dark sockets. 

Something was horribly wrong. 

Arriving home was a relief. The house looked exactly as it was left, though Glinda seemed to have given up waiting till Wednesday for the fence to be put up. A new automatic iron gate had been installed across the driveway, the posts still drying in newly dug holes. There were poles on either covered in surveillance cameras, and a bulkier lock on the front door which Glinda struggled to manage with two children in tow. 

Thankfully, the inside was exactly as Elphaba remembered it being. Minus the crate and the body of a dead snake, of course. 

“I’ll make dinner tonight,” the woman insisted, grunting a bit in relief as she set Peaches down onto her crutches. The two kids immediately ran off to play, vanishing down the hall. “Go rest, please.” 

“I promise I’m feeling ok. I can work.” 

“You will do no such thing!” Glinda seemed affronted by the idea. “Go. I’ll handle it.” 

“Your cooking is a biohazard.” 

“I’ll order out.” Glinda hissed, giving Elphaba the gentlest of shoves. “Go.” 

Raising her hands in surrender, knowing for a fact she wasn’t getting anywhere with Glinda tonight, Elphaba retreated to her room. She fell asleep almost instantly, the exhaustion of the hospital seeping from her body and into the silk sheets. It must’ve been hours when a clatter startled her awake. Sitting up, Elphaba fought back dizziness from her medications, tossing off the blankets. It was late…far later than it was when she’d first closed her eyes. Hurrying out into the hallway, the house was deathly still. 

Poking her head into Liir’s room first, the boy was already in his pajamas and tucked in, sleeping soundly. Peaches room was next, where Elphaba found a scene much the same. Her glowing horse nightlight cast patterns on the ceiling, while the girl in question was fast asleep in her sunshine yellow blankets. Relieved and surprised that the kids were already down for the night, Elphaba shuffled into the living room. 

There were toys and books everywhere, alluding to a busy evening of play. Chinese food containers sat on the kitchen island, yet to be tidied up. Glinda’s laptop was left beside them, still glowing on an open document. But the woman in question was missing. 

“Glinda?” Trying not to raise her voice too much, Elphaba pushed down her fear. What if someone broke in? What if Oz and Morrible were back? “Glinda!” Quickening her pace, the guest bedroom where Glinda usually slept was still pristine. She hasn’t been to bed that night. Fuck. “Glinda!” Elphaba headed for the bathroom at the far end of the house. Here, a golden light was shining beneath the door. “Glinda?” 

Expecting the room to be shut and locked, Elphaba was alarmed to find it partially open. Like Glinda didn’t even have time to shut it before she went in. How she looked earlier floated back into Elphie’s thoughts. She’d looked horrible earlier; maybe she’d finally gotten sick? Bracing herself to get yelled at for intruding, Elphaba gently knocked on the door before pushing it open. 

What she saw was worse than anything she could’ve imagined. 

Glinda was on the floor, perhaps having fallen as things from the counter had been unceremoniously brought to the ground with her. Wearing nothing but a spandex top and shorts, it was easy to see now what the woman had been hiding under her sweater. 

“Oh, Glinda.” 

Pale skin was mottled from her neck all the way down to her hip-bones, painted in a mosaic of dark blue and purple. Shoe and hand-prints were embedded into the soft flesh up her arms and around her throat, while two-pronged wounds puckered and seeped liquid in faint rivulets across her stomach. All but falling to her knees in horror, Elphaba felt the prickle of tears in her eyes. She hadn’t been able to do a single thing to stop this. She’d been there. “Glinda?” 

Reaching out, Elphaba’s heart twisted as Glinda whimpered under her touch, shaking in fear as she struggled to curl up. “Glinda, it’s me. It’s Elphie.” 

“…go away…” the woman’s chewed up lip wobbled, tears flowing down her face as she wrapped both hands around her stomach. “Please, leave me alone. Please…” 

“Glinda, I’m so sorry. I should’ve stopped this.” Elphaba’s hand trembled, but she didn’t know where to put it. There was bruising everywhere. This wasn’t just a close call anymore; this was a brutal and unwarranted attack. Yet despite her pain, Glinda had still picked up her son from his dad’s. She’d brought him home, got him dressed and to school, and then to the hospital to see her. Because she knew Elphaba was probably worried about him. “Oh gods, Glinda. What did they do?” 

“Elphie…?” 

“Yeah. Yeah, it’s me.” Elphaba tried to remain composed as Glinda’s eyes struggled to open. She looked terrified, still trembling from head to toe. “Glinda, why didn’t you tell me you were hurt?” 

“It wasn’t…important.” 

“Of course it was important,” Elphaba hissed under her breath, still taking in the amount of damage and not believing it. “I was awake last night. I know who did this to you.” 

“Elphie p—please…” Glinda winced as she breathed, the air coming in harsh, painful gasps. “You should go.” 

“Go?” Elphaba’s brows popped up. “Go where?” 

“Anywhere but h—here.” Glinda’s brown eyes flickered in her head, seemingly not knowing where to look. Elphaba reached out her hand, giving the woman’s cheek something to rest against as she sighed into the rough skin. “I never should’ve brought you and Liir into this. Never. I’m so sorry.” 

“You have nothing to apologize for. But this is serious now. We should go to the police…” 

“No! N—no, no. They’re in his pocket. All of them are. Every person Oz touches becomes his. Including me.” 

“I won’t let that happen. You know I won’t let that happen.” 

“You deserve more than this,” Glinda croaked. “Take Liir and go. Please, Elphie. I almost broke seeing you in the hospital. I can’t do this again.” 

“I’m not going anywhere.” 

“…stubborn…” Glinda gave a weak scoff, her eyes fluttering dangerously. Not sure what else to do, Elphaba gently curled her arms under the smaller woman’s body. 

“You can’t stay on the floor, Glinda. I have to move you.” 

“…can’t…hurts too much…” 

“I’m sorry.” With a cautious hoist Elphaba fought to get the blonde off the ground. She immediately cried out in pain at the change in position, but settled once it was over. Not as strong or as stable due to her own recent brush with death, Elphaba’s arms were burning by the time she returned them both to her room. The bed was bigger and the sheets were still warm. 

Gently laying Glinda down, she looked so much worse in the dim light of the bedroom. She was pale as frost, yet her entire middle was black as night. Elphaba would kill Morrible herself if she ever saw her again. Not bothering to sit on top of the blankets, Elphaba joined her companion in the heat, cautiously pulling her closer. 

“Just lean into me. I’m right here.” 

Glinda was silent but did as she was told, rolling a little to rest her weight against Elphaba’s chest. Finding the woman’s ratty blonde locks with her hand, strands broke off across Elphaba’s fingertips like spider silk. The stress was killing her friend more than Oz or Morrible ever could. Thankfully though, Chistery was in town now. 

And he owed Elphaba a favor. 

Chapter Text

Glinda was sitting at the edge of the bed. 

Elphaba knew that because her sleep had been nothing more than a light doze. So she felt it when Glinda sat up, rolling slowly to the edge of the mattress and sitting there for a while. Opening her eyes to see what was wrong, it was hard to make out much without her glasses. But the shoe prints up and down Glinda’s narrow spine were clear. Morrible needed to be pushed in front of a bus. 

Elphaba wasn’t sure if Glinda was even awake, as she was sitting up but not moving. There was a distinctly tired hunch to her body as she stared ahead, her chest rising and falling shallowly. Was she sleepwalking? Refusing to move and accidentally startle her friend, Elphaba grabbed her glasses just as Glinda finally pushed herself up to stand. The soft grunt of pain which came from her made Elphaba’s heart ache. 

Glinda wrapped an arm around her waist as she limped towards the door, shuffling in her bare feet out into the hallway. Assuming she was just going to the restroom, Elphaba tried to force down her worry. But it wasn’t that easy anymore. It never was. She threw off the blankets, pausing only to wince as her arm and shoulder burned. The snake venom didn't kill her, but it was enough to make the muscles under her skin constrict and feel like pulled leather. 

Rubbing the discomfort away, Elphaba followed Glinda at a safe distance. Her heart leapt when she didn’t spot the woman upon peeking into the hall. But she quickly hid in the darkness of the bedroom doorway again as she left Peaches room. After checking up on her daughter, Glinda continued her lame shuffle through the house, barely able to move herself due to the dark bruises painting her skin. Elphaba kept watch from the bedroom doorway, not sure what exactly Glinda was doing. 

She didn’t go into her office to work, or to the kitchen for a snack or a drink. She walked all the way down the hall, past the second bathroom…and to the master bedroom door. Curious, Elphaba tip-toed into the next dark shadow for a better look. Glinda stood in front of the wedding pictures on the wall, observing them. She then placed a flat hand on the door itself, moving her fingers as though inspecting the woodgrain in the dark. Elphaba didn’t expect Glinda to grab the knob and turn it, opening a room which she hadn’t entered since her husband’s death. 

Despite the door now being open, Glinda was frozen in place. Her pale hands shook as she pulled them to her chest, some mix of a whimper and a sob leaving her throat. “…Elphie…?” 

Elphaba jumped in surprise, not expecting to be addressed as she was forced to step from the shadows to catch her balance. Glinda had turned to look at her now, the woman’s pale face almost skeletal in the dark. She extended a hand. “Elphie, please?” 

Elphaba swallowed hard but shamefully plodded across the house, her head low. 

“I wasn’t spying,” she defended immediately, Glinda’s dark eyes almost black in the pale shine coming from the nearby window. “I just…?” 

“You should be resting.” 

“So should you.” Elphaba tilted her head, staring at Glinda’s exposed stomach. It looked so much worse in this light, the blotchy skin stretching and flexing with each hollow breath she took. 

“I can’t.” Glinda slumped. “He’s in my head.” 

“Who?” 

“Westin. Sometimes I can still hear him when I close my eyes. He’d come home late and whisper that he loved me. That he cherished me. That we deserved each other and would grow old together.” Glinda’s lip trembled. “I just want to wake up from this nightmare, Elphie. I can’t stand it.” 

Elphaba pursed her lips and dropped her head. She desperately wanted to reach out and caress Glinda’s cheek; to catch the shimmer of tears escaping from under her lashes. But she curled her fists instead. 

“He’s a ghost, Glinda,” Elphaba croaked. “I’m so sorry.” 

“How can a ghost feel so real? I can see him exactly as he was, and it hurts just as much as the day I lost him. How do I make it stop?”  

“You can’t. You shouldn’t.” Elphaba hesitated again, swaying back on her hips and looping her thumbs into her elastic waistband. “It’s a disservice to the people we love, pushing them away. Even in death.” 

“Your sister?” 

“I think about her all the time. She would’ve been so happy to be an aunt. You’d have liked her too, I think.” 

“How do you do it, Elphaba? How can you live with this pain?” 

“I focus on what I have, and not what I’ve lost.” Elphaba glanced back over her shoulder towards Liir’s room. “I have Liir, and I want to see him grow up. And…well…now I have Peaches too. And I have you.” 

“Miss Elphaba…” 

“What you have done for me Glinda is beyond what I could ever repay,” Elphaba insisted, still keeping her hands to herself as Glinda shifted. Despite her injuries—despite how gaunt she’d become—there was still an ethereal beauty to the woman that was difficult to describe. She leaned against the open doorway, head tilted, blonde hair undone and loose from its usual hairspray hardened style. Elphaba liked this Glinda far more than any facade she could ever make.

“I could say the same.” Glinda nodded into the bedroom. “Come in with me?” 

“This feels a bit personal, doesn’t it?” 

“Please?” Feeling Glinda gently take her arm, Elphaba didn’t miss how she expertly avoided the thick cotton patch still hiding her wound. Despite the dark night, the sliding glass doors allowed moon and pool-light to filter through the glass. The room looked exactly as it had when Elphaba had entered it without permission the first time. But Glinda paused, clinging to her arm as she took everything in. Her head swiveled as she looked at the messy double vanity and the open dressed drawers where men’s socks still dangled. Glinda looked at the clothes on the floor and in the hamper; she took in the drawings on the walls and in frames, and she stared at the still messy bed. 

Her expression was hard to define. But if Elphaba had to put a name to it, it was anguish. Pure, undiluted anguish. Elphaba couldn’t really imagine what Glinda was feeling, seeing a room stuck in time. But she never wanted to see Glinda make that face again. 

Distracted by her own thoughts, Elphaba felt Glinda move towards the vanity. The woman’s hand fluttered over the products before stopping on a familiar bottle of men’s cologne. She grabbed it, bringing the nozzle to her nose and inhaling. 

“That’s how you did it.” 

Elphaba blinked. “What?” 

“That night. That night I…I knew it wasn’t him. It couldn’t have been. You smelled just like him.” Glinda lifted the bottle. “This is how.” 

“I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have—” 

“You did that for me?” 

“I didn’t know another way to calm you down.” Elphaba twisted her fingers awkwardly. “I’m sorry.” 

Glinda pursed her lips, still sniffling with tears. Elphaba didn’t know what to do or say, shifting nervously from one foot to another. Was she angry? Displeased? Annoyed? 

“Elphie. It’s ok.” 

“I shouldn’t have been nosy.” 

“You were just the right amount of it, darling,” Glinda croaked, stepping closer so that they were practically chest to chest. “I don’t have my Westin anymore, Elphie. I miss him.” 

“I know.” 

“Lurline is cruel, doing this to me.” 

“What do you mean?” Elphaba didn’t understand, frozen by Glinda’s proximity. The blonde sprayed some of the cologne on her palms, feeling the liquid between her fingers. She inhaled deeply before placing her hands on Elphaba’s chest, rubbing the scent into the skin and up the sides of her neck. 

“Lurline stole my husband from me, Elphie. She destroyed my life and everything in it.” Glinda swayed a bit closer, forcing Elphaba to support her weight while trying not to be distracted by her hands gently holding her. It felt amazing to be touched so gently; to feel how silky soft Glinda’s palms were against her eczema-ridden flesh. “And yet…?” 

“And yet what?” 

“And yet, after all of that, she has the gall to send me you.” Glinda huffed, shaking her head. “Unfair, isn’t it?” 

“Very.” 

“Hmm.”

“Glinda?” 

“Yes, Elphie?” 

“I really am sorry.” 

“I know you are. I am too.” 

Elphaba frowned, glancing away from Glinda’s very intense stare. But she stiffened as a delicate hand gently took the back of her neck, pushing through the curls of angel hair under her braids. She felt it as she was gently tugged closer; close enough to feel Glinda’s breath dispersing on her cheeks as she shook her head. 

“Glinda…” 

“I want to.” 

“You said not to do this again.” 

“I said not to do that again,” Glinda scoffed. “I am not an object to be fought over, nor a way to make an ex jealous. You kissed me for no other reason than to use me.” 

“I…” Elphaba’s lips were dry as a bone. Shit. “I’m sorry.” 

Glinda’s nose scrunched despite her tears. “So many apologies.” 

“All necessary.” 

“If you say so, Miss Elphaba.” Glinda mused, pulling their lips together. Unlike the first time, which was very sudden if not a tad chaste, this kiss was plush. Gentle. Glinda’s lips tasted of salt but were as soft as her hands, while her inner lips were warm and tender. A buzz zipped up Elphaba’s spine. 

Glinda was kissing her. 

Tilting her head for a better angle, Glinda reciprocated by grabbing both sides of her head, pulling her deeper into the embrace. Taken off balance, Elphaba was forced to hold onto something. She found Glinda’s hips, planting herself there. The contact was either shocking or painful as the woman hiccuped, and Elphaba moved to pull away. But she was silenced by the woman’s mouth finding flesh just under her ear, kissing it tenderly and stealing the words from her throat. 

Oz almighty. 

Fiyero had never made her feel this way before. Sure he was a passionate lover, but just the feel of him didn’t make her melt. He had to work for it, especially at the end. But Elphaba was liquid in Glinda’s hands, only able to follow as she was tugged along. Eventually her companion hit the bed and pulled them both down onto the sheets, the scent of men’s cologne and shampoo surrounding them. 

“G—Glinda.” Elphaba awkwardly straddled Glinda’s hips, twitching as her arm ached. “We’re both injured.” 

“Then you’ll just have to be gentle with me,” Glinda teased, shoving a hand under Elphaba’s tank top and caressing her ashy ribs with a hand. Elphaba felt heat in her cheeks as she bit her lip, something needy throbbing in her gut. Fuck. “Elphaba, I’m giving you permission.” 

“You’re married.” 

“Was married,” Glinda rasped, her face twisting in pain at the admission. “I love Westin. I want him to come home with every fiber of my being. But you’re right. He’s just a ghost. I need someone who’s real, Elphaba. You are real.” 

Elphaba inhaled shakily as Glinda ran a hand up her side again, teasing the skin. The other ran through her hair, gently brushing the braids aside. 

“You’re hurt.” Elphaba hesitated, but eventually reached out to place a hand on Glinda’s bare stomach. She whined, though it was hard to tell if it was from pain or barely withheld need. “Are you sure?” 

“I wouldn’t be asking if I wasn’t sure.” Glinda leaned forward from her back, gently pressing their lips together as she guided Elphaba down to her level. “I need to feel you.” 

With the green light, Elphaba did as she was told. With the utmost caution she ran her hands up Glinda’s bare torso, careful of the wounds and bruises which littered it. She traced the inside of the woman’s soft thigh, following it all the way down the elegant curve of her calf. She peppered kisses along gaunt collarbones and in the dip of Glinda’s throat, mindful of every sound her companion made. The last thing Elphaba wanted to do was hurt her. Eventually, there was nowhere else to explore. 

“Keep going.” 

“Can’t. You’re beautiful though, Miss Glinda.” 

“Hmm.” With a familiar bend of her shoulders, Elphaba sat back as Glinda shed her bra, letting it fall off the side of the bed. “Elphie, please don’t stop.” 

Blinking at the beauty of her companion, Glinda grabbed her uninjured arm, pressing her hand against the seam of a soft, silk waistband. “I need all of you, Elphaba.” The woman’s brown eyes were intense as they stared at one another in the dark. Elphaba shivered expectantly, her breaths quickening its pace. She hadn’t slept with anyone in what felt like years. She felt like a stupid teenager again. 

“You’re sure?” 

Glinda smiled weakly, tossing back her head to stretch her battered body in the moonlight. “Just handle me with care, Miss Thropp.”

Chapter Text

Elphaba was weak and stupid. And stupid decisions led to stupid consequences. 

She loved her son; she loved being a mom. But it didn’t change the fact that Liir was an accident. Not a mistake—never a mistake—but an accident nonetheless. Elphaba swore never to be so reckless again; to not be fooled by the small but noisy part of her that wanted someone. Fiyero had left a gaping hole in her that never seemed to close. It’s why she felt so angry at his ease of moving on, while she was stuck trudging along behind. Abandoned by him…abandoned by his love. She let Glinda slither under her armor despite her better judgement. And now? Well, it was all falling apart. The woman had buckled despite how gentle Elphaba tried to be. She’d collapsed like sand through her fingertips. 

A stupid consequence of her stupid actions. 

Elphaba thought she knew where they stood. She thought they were just friends; something Glinda made quite clear. But for a split second, all of it had changed. Elphaba was foolish to think it was anything more than coping. Glinda had called out her husband's name in the haze. She begged for Westin in her agony, lost to her grief just like before. 

It shouldn’t have felt so devastating, yet it did. Because instead of just keeping her distance, Elphaba had (perhaps unknowingly) let herself hope. She thought, just maybe, things could be different this time. That she could see the signs more clearly than ever before. But the hope was lost as Glinda quivered and cried out in pain under her hands, her dead husband's name still on her lips. And though it seemed unfair, Elphaba felt used. Betrayed. The cologne, the bedroom, the ghost of what once was? It all clicked in her mind that something was wrong. 

That Glinda was…that she…

Elphaba couldn’t even finish the thought. She mentally hit herself, cursing her own stupidity. She’d thought about stopping multiple times, just to be goaded along like a rat with a piece of cheese. And despite the wound now slashed in her heart, Elphaba couldn’t help the heat still lingering in her neck. Glinda truly was as soft as she looked; as beautiful inside as she was outside. But the rose tint was truly just a fog, because Elphaba couldn’t wake her up.

Elphaba couldn’t wake Glinda up as she passed out from the pain. Be it the pain of her injuries…or the pain which had been ripping her apart since they met. 

Pacing the length of the hallway, the sun was long since risen. She’d called for help after it happened. She’d felt so lost, Glinda unconscious in her arms as she waited anxiously for backup to arrive. Chistery and Dr. Turtleheart showed up with tired eyes but ready to hold her up nonetheless. Her quote-en-quote ‘Uncle’ had graciously taken the kids to school, while she stayed behind to wait for news on Glinda’s condition. So far, she’d been left in the dark. 

When the door to the bedroom opened and closed, Elphaba nearly fell over from the force of her stop. Dr. Turtleheart was a strange looking man and had been since her youth. His crooked nose and deep set eyes aged him, yet his smile and kindly demeanor made him handsome. He used a weathered hand to flatten his head of well kept salt and pepper hair, a deep breath escaping his chest. 

“Miss Elphaba.” 

“Sir? Is…is she…?” 

“Awake and resting now.” 

Elphaba sighed in relief. She hadn’t hurt her. “Thank goodness.” 

“Child, come.” Waving a hand away from the door and to the living room, Elphaba followed after the man. He offered for her to sit, but she shook her head. So they remained standing, haloed in the light of morning. “I’m deeply troubled, my dear. Deeply troubled.” 

“How so?” 

“You have not told me how Miss Upland has come to have her injuries. Certainly not your doing?” 

“Of course not!” Elphaba sneered at the thought, only to quickly lose her and slump. “It’s um…complicated.” 

“Complicated.” 

“Yes, sir.” 

“Hmm. Well, I may not practice traditional healing anymore, but I suspect a fractured rib or two is to blame for this.” 

“Oh gods.” Elphaba placed a hand to her lips. Why didn’t Glinda tell her? “I didn’t know.” 

“Whatever you were doing before we arrived, I advise against it for the time being.” The Doctor raised his furry brow as Elphaba’s cheeks burned in embarrassment. But she ducked her head and nodded. 

“No, sir.” 

“The physical injuries are not what trouble me. Your friend's state is quite delicate.” 

“She’s been through a lot.” 

“I have worked with many patients in my life, Miss Elphaba. I have seen men who’ve been consumed by war in a better state than your companion.” 

Elphaba’s stomach clenched. She worriedly picked at her nailbeds, swallowing the saliva stuck in her throat. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, my dear, that grief is a powerful but dangerous thing. Miss Upland has yet to begin healing from her loss, therefore the wound has only grown deeper and more painful with each passing day.” 

“What about these…episodes…?” Elphaba pursed her lips hard enough to taste blood. “What are they?” 

“The mind protects itself in unusual ways when vulnerable. Just as your father returned to the battlefield in his solitude, so does your friend. It’s common, but can be frightening…dangerous, even.”  

“But you can help her, right?” 

“I don’t know.” 

“What?” 

“I know that you haven’t any faith in the Old God as I do,” Dr. Turtleheart said, running a hand down his chest to touch the beads around his neck. “But our scripture says that the human soul is like a river; it carries us through life in unexpected ways. But in times of drought, the water begins to ebb. And though the rains may one day return, the river will never be the same as it once was. And sometimes, if it’s been truly so long, it has nothing left to give at all.” 

Elphaba shook her head, her brows furrowing. “I don’t understand.” 

“Your friend is fighting a drought, Miss Elphaba. But her river is not much longer for this world. She has nothing left to give; and what she does not have of her own, she must take from others.” 

“You…you mean she’s dying?” 

“Grief unchecked has a way of sucking the will to live out of you. More have succumbed to grief in history than to war or disease. It’s truly a most difficult and terrible thing.” 

“No. No! I won’t…I won’t let that happen.” Elphaba clenched her fists, her anger flaring as she flexed her jaw. “Tell me how to stop it.” 

“If only it were so simple.” 

“I won’t let her die! I…I can’t. Nessa was enough, I can’t let this happen again.” 

“You care very deeply for Miss Upland. That is most righteous. But I warn you against it.” Dr. Turtleheart looked solemn as he sighed. “I don’t know if Miss Upland is strong enough to return from the place she is today. And it is not your responsibility to save her.” 

“I’m not going to just leave her here! She has a daughter. She wouldn’t just abandon her.” 

“I know you’re upset…” 

“Glinda loves Peaches. She wouldn’t…she wouldn’t just…” Elphaba growled in her throat. “You’re wrong, sir. You’re wrong.” 

“You will be hurt more by this than anyone else, Miss Elphaba. You still have a life to live. A young son who needs you—” 

“I don’t care! Let me be hurt; I’m used to it. Liir will understand, he’s been through hardship before. But I’m not just going to stand here and let Glinda die this way. I wasn’t there for Nessa because it wasn’t my responsibility. I won’t make the same mistake twice.” 

Turning on a heel, Elphaba huffed as she left Dr. Turtleheart in the living room. Practically steaming from the ears, she approached the closed door to the bedroom. Upon reaching it, her rage quickly stifled itself. Her hand trembled as she placed it on the knob, ice replacing where there had just been fire. Gathering what courage she had, Elphaba held her breath as she opened the door and stepped inside. The blinds were pulled closed, keeping out the daylight. All except a single golden spear of molten gold that fell across Glinda’s face. 

She looked dead. 

Her skin was white; her bones were protruding. Glinda’s bruises were growing darker as they healed, defining the shoe treads and fingerprints pressed into her flesh. The beauty that Elphaba experienced the night before felt like some horrible hallucination. A mirage. The indigo dark had merely hidden the truth for a moment. Maybe Elphaba just wasn’t willing to admit it to herself. But Glinda was dying. She was wasting away, becoming gaunt and frail in her prolonged grief. A grief that Elphaba knew she couldn’t combat even if she tried. 

Approaching the bed, Elphaba pulled over the vanity stool to sit. But as she settled, raking both hands through her braids while leaning over her knees, there was a flutter of nearly translucent eyelids. Glinda’s dark eyes were hazy as she struggled to open them, her lips parting slightly with a shallow inhale. 

“Elphie?” 

“Glinda. I—I…” Elphaba’s words caught in the back of her throat. “I’m so sorry.” 

“For what, darling?” 

“For hurting you.” Elphaba clenched her teeth. “I didn’t…I didn’t know.” 

“How could you have?” Glinda’s lips twitched, but it could hardly be called a smile. “I didn’t tell you.”

“Glinda, you have a fractured rib.” 

“Yes, that’s what the doctor fellow said,” Glinda croaked, her pale fingers weakly pulling at the bedsheets. 

“Why didn’t you tell me it hurt? You promised you would.” 

“I lied.” Glinda’s eyes found Elphaba’s throat, averting her eyes. “I wanted it to hurt.” 

“Why?” 

“Because I can’t…” Glinda shifted on her back, only to stop as her brows furrowed in pain. “I can’t feel anything else. Oh Elphie, it feels like something’s been ripped out of me.” 

“You’re grieving.” 

“I can’t stand it. I needed it to stop, just for a moment. And when you smelled like him…when I laid beside you that night, it did stop hurting.” Glinda’s lips wobbled as she inhaled again, only to be cut short by more pain as she scrunched her eyes. “If anyone should be apologizing, it’s me.” 

“Why?” 

“You know perfectly well ‘why’, you wicked thing,” Glinda tsked, her expression crumbling into one of sorrow. “Last night.” 

“Yeah.” Elphaba twirled her thumbs nervously. “It happened.” 

“It shouldn’t have. What I did to you is…unforgivable.” 

“We’re adults,” Elphaba murmured. “We made a choice.” 

“You didn’t. I did.”

“You weren’t yourself.” 

“Oh, but I was.” Glinda’s throat constricted again as she struggled to keep her ribs still, her gasping a prelude to tears. “I—I used you. I needed it to not hurt like this anymore. I thought it would make it better. I thought I could recreate what you did for me the night you wore his shirt and his cologne. But instead, I feel even more hollow than before.” Elphaba’s hands tightened. The python around her heart gave another harsh squeeze. She knew it. She knew it, and yet hearing it come from Glinda’s mouth was like being shot. “Elphie, please, look at me.” Elphaba didn’t raise her head. Not until a very cold, thin finger gently hooked the bottom of her chin. Glinda’s entire body shook from the strain. So much that Elphaba took her hand, holding it so the limb could rest. “I’m so sorry.” 

“Were you with Westin? You know, when we were…?” 

“No.” 

Elphaba blinked in surprise. “You said his name.” 

“I felt you until the end. And what a wonderful lover you are, Miss Thropp. B—but I blacked out, I don’t…I don’t remember…after. I woke up and that man was here.” 

Shifting closer, Elphaba gently replaced the woman’s hand by her side, rolling her thumb across the knuckles. “Elphie, I—I’m scared. I’m an addict; I—I will keep finding ways to make this pain stop hurting.” Glinda hiccuped again, the agony once again showing in her face with the slightest of motion. “Elphie, you deserve more than this. What I did to you is nothing short of cruelty. I never, ever should’ve brought you into this. Please. Please. Take Liir and go. You’ll be taken care of, I promise.” 

“Glinda, you’re babbling.”

“I’m not.” Glinda’s throat dipped into her collarbones. “If you stay here, you and Liir are in danger.” 

“I’m not leaving.” 

“Elphie please…” 

“There is nothing you can do that would make me leave you here to…this.” Taking in Glinda’s condition again, Elphaba winced at Dr. Turtleheart’s warning. “You can be as cruel to me as you want, Miss Upland. But I’m not going anywhere.” 

“Stubborn woman,” Glinda whispered, lifting her hand again. She shakily lifted it to touch Elphaba’s cheek, ghosting the freezing fingers across chapped skin. “If you won’t go, then at least promise me something?” 

“Anything.” 

“If something happens to me…I need you to take care of Peaches.” 

“What?” Elphaba shook her head, taking Glinda’s hand to press it firmer against her cheek. “Nothing is going to happen to you.” 

“Just promise me, Elphie. Promise me you’ll take care of her.” 

“I will. But I won’t need to, because you’re going to get better.” Elphaba kissed Glinda’s palm, relishing in how soft her skin was. “Glinda, you can’t leave your daughter. You’re all she has left.” 

“Oh Miss Elphaba.” Glinda’s lips trembled again as tears rolled down her cheeks in shimmering streams. “I may not have a choice.” 

Chapter Text

The afternoon didn’t match Elphaba’s mood. 

It was sunny and warm, the sky a pristine cerulean blue occasionally scraped with clouds. The concrete patio was warm under her thighs as she dangled her legs in the pool, mindlessly kicking up waves. Once upon a time, Elphaba would’ve considered this luxury. She supposed it still was, but at what cost? Frowning into the water and furrowing her brow she twisted, looking back towards the master bedroom. She’d opened the curtains and cracked the slider to let some air in; the thick scent of their night together didn’t need to linger. Despite the encouragement, Glinda hadn’t moved. 

She was still in bed, just a white splotch in the dark sheets. Her chest rose and fell, assuring Elphaba that she was still alive. But even at a distance, it was clear that Glinda was unwell. Dr. Turtleheart had promised to return with proper pain medication from the pharmacy, leaving Elphaba alone for the time being. Chistery seemed to understand this. He made plenty of noise upon re-entering the house, alerting Elphaba to his presence. 

She didn’t bother turning around as her dear friend stepped onto the patio with her. He didn’t say much (he never did), merely walked to her side and sat down. Elphaba glanced at the monkey curiously, rolling her eyes at his attire. 

“A full suit? Really?” 

“It’s important to look one’s best when making a house call.” Chistery’s voice was deep and soft, hardly the voice you’d expect from someone in his chosen career path. “The kids are fine. How are you? I didn’t expect you to be in the hospital when I arrived.” 

Elphaba sighed again, rubbing the tops of her knees. “I hadn’t planned on it. I’m doing ok now. Thanks for coming.” 

“I know you well, Fabala. You don’t just call people. Especially not me.” 

“I wish it were just a friendly visit,” Elphaba muttered, kicking her leg to ripple the water again. “Do you remember that night at the Flying Monkey Club? Back when I still lived in Munchkinland?” 

“How could I forget?” Chistery gave a breathy chuckle, his dark eyes glassy as though reminiscing. “You got us out.” 

“Kept you out of jail, more like.” 

“Jail is death to our sort. We take the vow of silence; to our graves if need be.” 

“All that trouble and you still followed in your Father’s footsteps.” 

Chistery huffed. “You know it wasn’t a choice, Fabala. We have a code.” 

“Yeah, I know. Doesn’t mean I have to like it, though. You could’ve been something exciting, like an accountant.” 

Chistery scoffed, giving her a pointed look over his suited shoulder. “Why bring up the Club now, little bird? That was years ago.” 

“You said if I ever needed something taken care of, you’d handle it. As a favor for that night. Does the offer still stand?” 

“Of course. Favors don’t expire.” 

“Then I need to cash in.” 

“What’s the job?” 

“Protection.” 

Chistery’s brows rose. His posture shifted, stiffening up at the shoulders. The monkey pulled down his cap, hiding his eyes in shadow. 

“Someone threatening you, Fabala?” 

“Not me.” Elphaba nodded her head back towards the house. “Galinda Upland. This is her house.” 

“Upland.” Chistery repeated the name. “I know that name. Dame does UCLAP work in the Oz Projects. A few of my cousins live down there.” 

“Yeah, that’s her.” 

“What does she need protection for? Certainly she’s got enough money to handle it without monkey intervention?” Chistery shook his head a little. “You know this ain’t a small thing here, Fabala. This is serious stuff.” 

“I know. And I wouldn’t ask if I wasn’t desperate, but it’s…I…I don’t know what to do. They tortured her, Chis. Broke her ribs, electrocuted her in a public place and no one did a thing—”

“Woah. Woah, woah, Fabala. Slow down. Who is ‘they?’” 

“Oscar Diggs.” 

Chistery ruffled. Any of his visible fur rose as he bared his mouth of teeth in a sneer. “You shouldn’t be associating with the likes of that scum.” 

“I’d rather not be. But he’s been harassing Glinda for months ever since her husband died in a car accident—”

“Damn.” 

“What?” 

“Nothing.” Chistery grabbed at his small patch of chin fur, smoothing it with a palm. “Nothing you need to worry about. I just…realized something. That’s all.” 

“If it has to do with Glinda, I want to know.” 

“It’s not an easy thing to hear. It’s better if you didn’t know. Monkey business.” 

“Tell me anyway. Chis, please. If you know something about this…?” 

“I do.” Chistery waved his palm, face scrunched in thought as he silenced Elphaba’s protests. “But you can’t repeat what I tell you. Not to anyone, understand?” 

“Of course.” 

Chistery grumbled his agreement, glancing around to make sure no one was listening in before leaning closer to whisper: “About half-a-year ago, the monkeys were contacted by Oz Diggs. He offered up a lotta dough to take care of someone for him; make it look like an accident.” 

Elphaba’s stomach grew cold. Her heart stopped beating. “W—what?” 

“We didn’t take the job, not after we learned who the target was, anyways. We don’t do work like that.” 

“Westin.” Elphaba’s head swirled in realization. “Westin Chuffrey. He was the target?” 

“Yeah. The accident you’re talkin’ about? It wasn’t an accident. Fabala, you’ve gotten yourself into something deep here. Real deep.” 

“What do you know about Oscar Diggs?” 

“Just that he’s a nasty piece of work. And a bad man with a lotta money is never a good combo. So this chick is that poor fellow’s widow, huh?” 

“It’s just her and her daughter now,” Elphaba confirmed. “The little blonde you took to school? That’s Peaches.”  

“Yeah, cute cub. Only talks in sign.” 

“Right.“ 

“So what’s Diggs after?” 

“Oz wants Glinda to sign over the trust. Says it belongs to him since he and Westin were business partners once. It started out small; threatening letters, house calls, an offer of marriage? But then it uh…escalated.” 

“Trying to scare Mrs. Upland into compliance? That’s low. Like I said, scum. Nothing more, nothing less.” 

“She’s sick, Chis. Glinda is…I…she’s dying. Everything that’s happened is just too much for her; her body can’t take it and is shutting down. She needs some peace of mind. I need some peace of mind. This has gone too far.” 

“So what exactly do you need from us?” 

“I need you to protect this family.” 

“Family, hey?” Chistery tilted his head. “Sounds like you’re pretty attached, Fabala. How’d you even get mixed up in this anyway?” 

“By accident. Glinda helped us out of some trouble; I’m just returning the favor.” 

“Sounds like a bit more than that. You know, in monkey culture, family is everything. You don’t just call someone family for kicks.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“I mean, Fabala, that you don’t want protection just for the dame and her kid. You want protection for the family.” Chistery gently poked Elphaba’s shoulder with a finger. “That includes you and Liir.” 

“Maybe it does.” Elphaba slumped, her brows furrowing. “But it doesn’t matter. Glinda doesn’t want me that way.” 

“Who says?” 

“She does. She’s grieving her husband, Chis. She hasn’t been allowed to mourn over him because she has to keep looking over her shoulder. I can have all the feelings in the world, but it just wouldn't be right of me.” 

“Just cause now ain’t the right time doesn’t mean it won’t ever be,” Chistery offered. “Time is your friend. And I’m sure even if Mrs. Upland doesn’t say it outright, she knows how you feel. You’ve never been one for subtlety.” 

“I can be subtle.” 

“You blew up the Club with a propane tank and a lighter.” 

“I was sixteen. Just a dumb kid,” Elphaba hissed unhappily. “Besides, it worked. Got you lot out of there in time, didn’t it?” 

“It did. I can do this favor for you, Fabala. No problem. But you understand the consequences of it, don’t you?” 

“What, that I’m hiring criminals? Yeah, I know.” 

“Don’t gotta be so harsh about it,” Chistery laughed, tilting his hat. “But yeah. There’s no beating around the bush. I make a deal with you, there’s no backing out. We do things our way or not at all.” 

“I don’t care what it takes. This ends today, and you can’t change my mind.” 

“You care a lot for this dame, don’t you?” 

“I do. More than I should, seeing as I’ve only just jumped from one mess to another.” 

“Ah. Love is funny like that.” 

“I don’t love her.” 

“Bullshit.” Chistery’s nostrils flared as he pulled a cigar from his pocket, flipping it between his fingers. “You’re selfish, Fabala. Always have been. You taking the stick out of your ass for her tells me all I need to know.” 

“Just promise me one thing, Chistery.” 

“What’s that?” 

“Keep your work away from my son.” Elphaba gave her old friend a once over, taking note of the gold now adorning his hands. The Flying Monkeys were no joke, after all. She’d run across Chistery by accident as a teen, back when Chistery Sr. was still the Boss. Now, seeing as the old ape had passed, Chistery Jr. (her current companion) was now overseeing one of the largest underground Animal empires Oz had ever seen. And Elphaba was about to make a deal with him. “I respect you, Chis. You’ve been a dear friend when I had nobody else. But Liir has a future, one that isn’t built on work like yours.” 

“I understand, Fabala. I knew I should’ve recruited you back then. Before you went all goo-goo eye’d for the Vinkus boy.” 

“I did not have goo-goo eyes.” 

“You did.” Chistery placed the cigar into his mouth with a sly grin. “Now, business. As a favor from the Monkey’s, you have your protection. And, since you’re a dear friend, a little bit extra. On the house.” 

“Extra like what?” 

“Security, surveillance, and a special visit to whoever tortured your girlfriend.” 

“She’s not my girlfriend.” 

“Whatever you say.” Chistery offered his palm, his dark eyes keen. “Do we have a deal, Fabala?” 

Elphaba hesitated only for a second. There was nothing more she could do now; she’d done what she was able. Chistery was a good man under all that fur and pinstripe. She just had to trust that he wouldn’t get them all killed. Elphaba took his hand firmly, giving it a shake. 

“Deal.”

Chapter Text

“…Elphaba?” 

The clatter of dropping silverware was deafening. Just like her daughter, Glinda had managed to magically appear from nowhere, all without making a sound. Elphaba turned, grabbing the edge of the sink with both hands to steady herself. 

“Glinda. What are you doing up?” 

“I didn’t mean to scare you.” Glinda waited in the kitchen doorway, leaning against the moulding as though struggling to keep herself upright. She looked just as ghastly as before, no makeup or clothing to hide how poor shape she was actually in. Of course, Elphaba would never say so out loud. She didn’t need to be ruffling any of Glinda’s pretty blonde feathers right now. Instead, she forced her best smile, exhaling a shaky breath to try and calm her furiously racing heart. 

“It’s ok. But you shouldn’t be out of bed.” 

“I have to…um…?” Glinda paused, her brows furrowing. The forgetfulness was brief, but Elphaba caught it nonetheless. 

“Glinda?” 

“School!” The blond blurted out the word, furiously waving her hands as she held her forehead. “I—I have to get the kids from school.” 

“You’re definitely not doing that.”

“What do you mean? They get off in an hour.” 

“I don’t know how you managed it the first time, you can barely stand.” 

“But this is backwards,” Glinda whined, shifting a little to cradle her ribs with a hand. “You just got out of the hospital. I should be handling this. You should be resting.” 

“I did rest. While I was in the hospital?” Elphaba tilted her head, pushing away from the sink. “But now that I’m back, you should be in bed.”

“I don’t need any more sleep, Miss Elphaba.” 

“You don’t have to sleep, but being on your feet is hurting you.” 

“Only a little bit. I can drive.” 

“No.” Elphaba opened the freezer and grabbing an ice pack. Breaking apart any clumps with her fingers, she held it aloft for Glinda to see. “You’re resting.” 

“But—” 

“We can argue all day, but it’s not going to change my mind. I’ll handle the kids, you just need to lay down until Dr. Turtleheart gets back.” 

“Oh, you…you stubborn woman.” 

“Yep, that’s me. Back to bed please, your majesty.” 

“I hate you.” 

“You didn’t hate me last night.” 

Glinda’s eyes bulged. Her face contorted in surprise; pale cheeks taking on the most color Elphaba had seen in weeks. Despite the blonde’s useless sputtering, she was unable to come up with something to say back. Elphaba placed a guiding hand between the woman’s shoulders as they returned to the bedroom in silence. Pulling back the blankets and waving to the still warm divot, Glinda held out. She crossed her arms and tilted her face away, pouting and putting on a display not unlike her young child. But exhaustion and Elphaba’s silent patience must’ve gotten the better of her as she slowly returned to the mattress, whining and groaning in pain until she was properly settled. 

“Was that so hard?” Elphaba pushed up the edge of Glinda’s tank top, noticing immediately that the blonde was already beginning to doze. “Glinda, hey. I thought you said you didn’t need more sleep?” 

“Mm’awake.” Glinda raised an arm, hiding her face beneath it. “Just resting my eyes for a moment.” 

“This will be cold.” Elphaba maneuvered the ice pack in her hand to gently fall over Glinda’s rib cage. Her companion immediately hissed in discomfort, bucking a little as Elphaba held her down with a hand. “I know, I know, I’m sorry.” 

“That h—hurts!” 

“Just settle down. Let the ice reduce the swelling.” 

“Fucking hell and Oz,” Glinda croaked, pinching the bridge of her nose with two fingers as Elphaba tucked fabric down over the coldpress, making sure it wouldn’t slide off. 

“I remember my first broken rib,” Elphaba chuckled, sitting on the edge of the bed and pulling one knee up to rest on it. “It was agony. I felt like I was dying.” 

“How’d you break it?” 

“Oh, you know. Teenage stupidity. I suppose Liir and I have that in common.” 

“Were you going down hills in old tires?” 

“Well…no, not exactly. But I did my fair share of stupid shit.” Chuckling dryly at the memory, Elphaba glanced at the clock. There was still a little time before she had to leave to pick up the kids from school. “I should start getting ready. I’ll let Chistery know to stay nearby. If you need anything, ask him.”  

“Elphie, rest with me a moment?” 

“Glinda, I have to leave soon.” 

“Just a minute.” 

Elphaba slumped. She was as useful as wet cardboard around Glinda. She could deny Fiyero anything, giving him her coldest shoulder with ease. But as narrow fingers gently brushed against her forearm, she caved as easily as sand. 

“Just for a second and then I need to go.” 

“Fine, Miss Elphaba.” 

Grumbling her complaints in the back of her throat, Elphaba stood and rounded the bed to the empty side, flopping down onto it. She stayed on top of the blankets, parallel to Glinda so they weren’t side by side. After last night, Elphaba didn’t want to lay beside her as a lover. They were just friends. Friends who’d done something incredibly impulsive. If Glinda was bothered by the choice she didn’t speak on it. 

They lay like that for a while, staring silently at the ceiling. Elphaba wondered if Glinda had actually fallen asleep, but blinked and looked up past her glasses as a hand gently found her hairline. 

“…Elphie?” 

“Yeah?” 

“Who is Chistery? Why did you call him here?” 

Elphaba stiffened. Shit. “Uhm. He’s an old friend, that’s all.” 

“How old?” 

“Since I was a teenager. We ran across each other while I was still living in Munchkinland.” 

“Oh.” Glinda’s fingers gently smoothed any stray hairs as Elphaba’s temple, the sensation soothing and soft as she rolled unconsciously into the touch. “You must think I’m dense, Elphaba Thropp.” 

The pleasure quickly died. Elphaba’s eyes snapped open. “What?” 

“I know a Flying Monkey when I see one.” 

She fully rolled over now, resting on her stomach. Glinda’s dark eyes were tired but sharp. She was present and unhappy. “Why did you bring a criminal into my home?” 

“I…didn’t know what else to do.” Elphaba readjusted herself, wincing a little at the odd angle of her bad arm. “We needed help, Glinda.” 

“But a gangster? Elphie, there are children in this house.” Glinda grunted as she attempted to sit up, only to stop and hiss as she grabbed the ice pack on her waist and held it close. “I don’t want him here.” 

“That’s not happening.” 

“Elphaba, you’ll send him away.” 

“He’s a good man, Glinda. He’s here to help, I swear.” 

“Flying Monkeys don’t just help people.” 

“I…didn’t think you’d know who they were,” Elphaba admitted, feeling a bit guilty. Glinda just tsked unhappily in her cheek. 

“When you have money like I do, you run across all sorts of people, Elphie. Some, you wish you hadn’t.” Glinda’s tone cut like a blade, despite how wispy and soft it was. “Good and legal aren’t the same thing. They have their own way of doing things, meaning you made a deal with him.” 

“N—not exactly,” Elphaba sputtered, causing Glinda’s brow to rise ever so slightly. 

“Enlighten me.” 

“Look Glinda. I uh—” Elphaba was forced to pause, sitting up again as she turned to face the door. A familiar bubble of shame boiled in her gut, but she pushed it down. Not the time. “I’ve done some things in my life that I’m not proud of. I was young and stupid, but it still happened.” 

“What kind of things?” 

“Um, not entirely legal things?” 

“Elphie…” 

“Like I said, it was a long time ago. Chistery was someone who saved my life when I was just a kid. He was the only other person I had when my father would beat the shit out of me. I needed someone.” 

“So you’re one of them?” 

Elphaba wildly shook her head. “No. No, I never took an oath or followed the code. But I was closer to the Flying Monkeys than most normal people are.” 

“So who is Chistery, then?” 

“I can’t tell you. I may not have taken any kind of oath, but a friend to the Monkeys stays a friend to them. Meaning you keep their secrets close. But I swear, Chistery is here to protect you. To protect this family.” Hitching on the word, Elphaba awkwardly cleared her throat. “He owed me a favor; that’s why I called him. I did him a solid once but never cashed in. That’s the most I can say.” 

“You swear that he’s a good man?” 

“On my life.” 

Glinda sighed deeply and laid back, staring at the ceiling. “Then I trust you, Elphaba. But he stays away from my daughter.” 

“I understand. I told him to stay away from Liir, too. I know why you don’t trust him, Glinda. Please don’t think I’m excusing the lifestyle he chose just because we’re acquainted. But we just can’t do this alone anymore. Not when it’s gotten this bad.” Elphaba shifted closer to Glinda’s side of the bed, lifting her shirt again to readjust the ice pack. The bruises were like a continent, dark and horrible to see. “This never should’ve happened to you.” 

“A lot of things shouldn’t have happened to me, Miss Elphaba,” Glinda whispered, still staring at the ceiling as Elphaba traced invisible patterns on her bare stomach. “Lurline is punishing me and I don’t know why. I’ve only ever tried to be good…” 

“You are good, Glinda.” 

“Look where that’s got me. There’s cruel irony in it, I suppose. Maybe I’m just one big cosmic joke.” 

“You’re babbling,” Elphaba assured, lifting her head as a familiar hand gently pushed through her braids. “It’ll be ok. I promise.” 

“You can’t promise such a thing,” Glinda whispered, urging Elphaba towards her. Like a siren’s pull she guided them closer together, her nails ghosting along the underside of Elphaba’s jaw. “Will you make it stop hurting for me, Elphie? Just for a moment?” 

“I can’t.” 

“Just a second,” Glinda rasped, their faces only a hair's length apart. “Just one moment. You have a power over me, Elphaba Thropp.” 

Elphaba knew she couldn’t. But her heart was thundering and her gut was churning. Glinda didn’t make the first move this time. She remained perfectly still as Elphaba closed the gap, just to know what it felt like to be fully in control of herself. Only after their lips touched, warm and soft, did Glinda move her hand to clasp around her neck. Careful not to put any pressure on her body, the kiss sent a wave of relief through her skin. Elphaba could taste the sweetness of Glinda’s mouth, greedily drinking from between her teeth. She opened herself willingly to the exploration, her nails poking into Elphaba’s skin as she hung on. 

When they had to come up to breathe, Elphaba peppered the woman’s neck and throat with her mouth, tracing every curve and crevasse, noting which ones made Glinda moan and gasp in pleasure. 

“You’re too good to me, Elphie,” the woman croaked, rolling her head as Elphaba bit the skin on her shoulder, causing her to whimper. “Sweet Lurline…” 

“I need to go get the kids from school, Miss Glinda,” Elphaba admitted, catching sight of the time. ”You won’t go anywhere till I get back, right?” 

“If you insist, darling,” Glinda chuckled, though it was weak as Elphaba finished her travels around her collar. “Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome.” Leaving another lingering kiss on Glinda’s lips, Elphaba swiftly dismounted, rolling her sore arm as she stood from the bed. As she headed for the door, Glinda’s croak stopped her. 

“Elphaba?” 

“Yes?” 

“Be careful.” 

Elphaba nodded, her arm still hanging in the doorway as she stared at the woman from over her shoulder. “I will, Glinda. I promise.”

Chapter Text

Elphaba had a special power. 

Or rather, she’d developed a special power, living in her fathers house. Frexspar Thropp was a paranoid, unstable man cracked by war. And though Nessarose had some fondness for him, (he had enough mind left to treat her well), Elphaba had none. She caught the brunt of her fathers ire; every kick, hit, and thrown object one could imagine. So Elphaba had developed a keen sense of intuition. A way of holding herself when her gut twisted and told her something was wrong. 

That he was just around the corner. 

She could walk silently, dart in and out of shadows, and perceive danger to a startling degree. It saved her from possibly crossing her dad at the worst possible moment, therefore it was a blessing. At least in those early years. This little party trick was an asset to Chistery too, even if what she got out of the brief partnership was dirty money. But she needed that money. She had to get out of her fathers warpath before his psychosis killed her. And though she didn’t need to be as cautious anymore, the habit of staying alert followed her into adulthood. Well…almost. Her son had a way of escaping her detection, doing things like jumping off balconies and rolling down hills in tires. Peaches could sneak up on her; Glinda could as well. 

But the car that had been tailing her for the past four left turns could not. 

Elphaba knew something was wrong the moment she left the house. She could feel it churning in her gut: the a familiar sensation of dread which saved her life more times then she ever wanted to admit. The black sedan with tinted windows and no license plate had been on her ass for miles. Two more had joined the first, meaning she was completely surrounded. But Elphaba didn’t want to go to the school; possibly leading Oz goons back to the kids. And she couldn’t go home either, letting the danger through the gate. So she drove, taking strange backways and sharp turns to try and get out of trouble. 

But when another big, black SUV joined the parade and lightly bumped her tail, Elphaba knew she was fucked. Her knuckles clenched around the steering wheel as she was forced from the main road, down a few private trails and into a small, abandoned section of West Side parkland. She had to stop upon coming to a picnic area parking lot, a thick forest just beyond. 

Dead end. 

“Shit.” Elphaba threw the brakes, her heart racing as the parade of vehicles blocked her in. No going backwards, and no going forwards. Fuck. “Ok Elphie.” Elphaba glanced in the rear view mirror one more time, her chest huffing and puffing. “Go.” 

She unbuckled, throwing the door. Figures were emerging from the other cars as she took off running, headed for the trees. If she could make it into the woods, she had a better chance of hiding. Unfortunately, she never seemed to be that lucky anymore. That and she certainly wasn’t as young as she used to be. There was a bang and whirr as something was shot at her from behind. Her legs buckled and a scream ripped from her throat as an electrical current shocked through her back, sending her to the ground in a tangle of limbs. 

Writhing in pain, Elphaba couldn’t do much as she was grabbed from the ground, her wrists roughly shoved behind her back and zip-tied together. Another tie was wrapped around her legs, keeping her from kicking, while duct tape was pulled over her mouth and wrapped three times around her head. Bad. Bad, bad, bad! Squirming and fighting against her captors (all wearing emerald green ties), she was dragged back towards the parking lot. 

A few creeps were ransacking her SUV, one of them pulling out the remote for the electric gate and holding it up triumphantly. No. No, no! 

“Stop squirming.” 

Elphaba growled behind her closed lips, wiggling and thrashing until she was met with a limousine parked at the very back of the parade. Her heart stuttered in surprise as the door was opened. She was thrown in, hitting the floor with enough strength to rattle her brain. 

Elphaba grunted as a hand grabbed a handful of her hair, using it to sit her up against the nearest bench of seats. The interior of the limo was upholstered in green velvet and paneled with dark wood. Brass adornments sparkled under electric lights, while crystal drinking glasses were filled with amber colored liquid. Oz sat perched in the seat across from her, neat as usual in his well pressed suit, a lit cigar between his lips. It was Morrible who had a grip on her, her nails sharp against her scalp. Elphaba thought to try and catch the woman with her head, but froze as there was a static sound just beneath her ear. The familiar taser sparked just hot enough to burn, crackling and buzzing just centimeters from her neck. 

“Ah, Miss West.” Oz smiled, blowing a billow of smoke out the cracked limousine window. “How lovely to see you again.” 

Elphaba couldn’t speak, but she glared her most ferocious glare. Get fucked. 

“It’s unfortunate we aren’t meeting under more cordial circumstances, but you’ve been giving me an awful lot of trouble recently.” Oz clicked his tongue, flexing his fingers that were adorned in chunky golden rings with huge gemstones. He took a sip from his glass, swirling it around. “Miss West—or should I say, Miss Thropp, was it?—I have been nothing but good to you.” 

Good? Ha! Elphaba rolled her eyes, catching Oz’s attention. 

“Now, now, no need for that.” The man waved his finger as Morrible stuck Elphaba’s neck with the taser, causing her to scream in pain as her eyes flashed red. Fuck! "We are having an adult conversation here. Aren’t we? Yes. Now, I have two offers for you.” 

Elphaba heaved, snorting air through her nose as electricity made its way through her body in waves. Glinda had at least seven marks on her body from that night in the hospital. How could someone do that to her? 

“Take your son and leave. Never come back. If you do, all of this goes away. Pretend you and Galinda never met, and you’ll never have to worry about your boy’s safety again.” Oz tilted his head. “But I have another offer. A more…productive…offer, for the both of us. I know Galinda has you on her books. Come work for me at the Emerald City instead, I can double whatever it is she offered and more. Think penthouse, private school for your boy, Lamborghinis and clubs. Everything your heart could even dream of. Hell, I already did you a favor, employing that bum ex-husband of yours.” 

Elphaba paused. What? 

“That man is so brainless, I don’t understand what you ever saw in him.” Oz chuckled, taking another draw of his cigar. “But he’ll make a good worker. Good muscle, you know? What do you say, Miss Thropp?” 

Elphaba snorted her anger, only to scream again behind the tape as Morrible jabbed the taser into the top of her shoulder, the sting of electricity burning through her skin like fire. 

“This is your last civilized warning, Miss Thropp,” Oz warned, his previously cheerful eyes now gone dark. “Stay out of my affairs, or I’ll kill you and your son. You don’t want that boy to be in pieces floating down a river, do you?”

Elphaba only felt rage. She jerked, pulling her body to try and release the zip-ties. A hand grabbed the back of her shirt as the taser was brought to her stomach, sending volts through her abdomen as she shrieked, released down to the floor with a hollow thump as her body twitched and was forced to go still. 

“I’ll take that as a no, then.” Oz sighed heavily, setting down his glass and extinguishing his cigar. “Very well, Miss Thropp. I gave you every opportunity to end this. Selfish of you not to, seeing as you’re putting your own son in danger.” 

With a menacing click, Oz removed a sleek black pistol from his jacket pocket. Elphaba couldn’t help her panic at seeing it, unable to move from the floor as the barrel was pointed at her head. She was going to die. Holy shit, she was going to die! 

Closing her eyes again and whimpering in fright, Elphaba waited for the shot. Instead, there were shout of panic and the skid of tires. Outside the limo, gunfire rang out in sharp succession. Oz immediately hid his weapon, sitting down and buckling up. He tapped the window to the driver, who immediately revved up the engine. Elphaba felt it as the limo pulled off. 

“Morrible.” 

“Yes, sir?” 

“Get rid of her.” 

With a nod, Morrible opened the limo door. She grabbed Elphaba’s collar and pulled her across the floor with a heave of effort. For a moment, she was left flying. Then, there was pain as she roughly hit the ground while moving, gravel and debris cutting into her clothes and exposed skin as she rolled down a slight embankment and hit a tree. Elphaba howled again in agony as something snapped in her wrist, the trunk now pressing against her zip-tied hands as her vision swam with dark spots. 

Fading in and out, struggling to catch her breath under the tape, voices were shouting and bullets were flying. 

“Fabala!” A familiar silhouette skidded down the hill towards her. It was hard to see, as her glasses had been lost in the scuffle. Chistery? “Little bird, hey. Hey, it’s ok. Imma get you outta this, just stay still.” 

Elphaba moaned as a strong hand pulled her off her wrists, the swish of a flip knife reaching her ears as she was cut loose. The sharp sting of the blade was too close to her cheek as Chistery gently cut away the tape, his dark eyes stormy as Elphaba whimpered. Dry skin from her eczema had peeled away with the adhesive, causing her face to sting. 

“…Chis…” 

“Fabala? Hey, are you alright, kiddo?” 

“Glinda…” 

“What?”

“They…they’re going after…her.” Elphaba winced as she was half-dragged, half-lifted to her feet. “They have the remote to the fence.” 

“Don’t worry about that. I’ve got my guys there.” 

“The kids…” 

“Also taken care of. Let’s worry about you.” 

Elphaba forced a pained nod, unable to hold her own weight to get back up the hill. Chistery ended up carrying her bridal style, shouting orders to other Monkey’s who were busy loading limp bodies into cars. Clearly, the shootout had been fatal. There was blood all over the lot, empty casings glittering in the sun. Who had more losses, Elphaba had no idea. Grunting a little as she was laid down in the soft grass just beyond the parking lot, Chistery’s palm tilted her head and moved her clothing around, looking at any injuries he saw. 

“Fabala, what the hell have you gotten yourself into?” 

“Fucking Oz Diggs,” Elphaba growled, anger once again flowing through her blood. “He asked me to come work for him. Someplace called the Emerald City.” 

Chistery made an unhappy noise in his throat. “What did you tell him?” 

“What do you think?” 

“Hmm.” Chistery shook his head, using a hand to push Elphaba back down onto the grass as she tried to sit up. “Not yet.” 

“I have to get home.” 

“You will. But let my guys clean up a little first. We don’t need any of this coming back to you.” 

“Fuck.” Clenching her teeth, Elphaba knew Glinda would be pissed when she found out about this. But that made her wonder. “Chis, what are you doing here?” 

“Apparently saving your ass.” 

“N—no, but…you’re supposed to be watching Glinda.” 

“It was Mrs. Upland who insisted I come after you.” 

“What?” 

“Apparently her intuition is as good as yours, little bird.” Chistery smiled, shaking his head. “She wouldn’t take no for an answer, either. Ferocious dame you’ve got there.” 

“But how did you find me?” 

“Tracked your phone's GPS signal. Knew something was up the minute you started takin’ a bunch of left turns.” 

“Mm’ glad you’re here, Chis,” Elphaba muttered, crying out a little as Chistery took her wrist, examining it in his fingers. “I’d be dead without you.” 

“Can’t let that happen,” the ape sighed, patting her non-injured shoulder. “You look a little rough, but nothin’ too severe.” 

“You uh…won’t tell Glinda about this, right?” 

“Fabala, you look like horseshit. I won’t have to tell her anything.” 

Elphaba groaned, closing her eyes and inhaling and exhaling her adrenaline away. Oz may not have killed her…but Glinda absolutely would. 

Hell and Oz.

Chapter Text

Elphaba had gotten used to living alone. Ever since the divorce, the emptiness she felt had been steadily growing until it was almost overpowering. The horrible quiet could fill the apartment from floor to ceiling. And though she had Liir, who could absolutely shatter any semblance of peace she had, when he wasn’t with her, the solitude was grating. Elphaba had done everything she could to fill the void; she worked doubles, threw anything of Fiyero’s into the garbage, and made sure to have hobbies. Hitting the gym was one of them, reading was another. But coming home to an empty house after being in someone else’s company for so long, the loneliness was hard to deny. 

Elphaba didn’t know when Glinda began to feel like home to her. It could’ve been after they slept together, but maybe it was from the start all along. When Glinda was still Galinda and somehow managed to fill their tiny hospital room with her precocious attitude. Either way, Elpbaba knew someone would be waiting for her tonight. And indeed, despite the quickly darkening weather, Glinda stood on the porch steps, waiting for her to come home. The sight of her haloed by the gold interior lights made Elphaba’s insides go warm with fondness. 

From inside the house, safe and out of the storm, two faces peered out. One had a familiar head of brown curls, the other a wild blonde ponytail. As Chistery promised, the kids had been returned home safely and unharmed, allowing Elphaba to breathe just a bit easier. The relief was very short-lived. As the car pulled up the driveway, rain attacking the windshield in blustery, unpleasant torrents, Glinda was dancing on her feet. Doctor Turtleheart stood nearby, an arm outstretched as though to grab her. But he wasn’t fast enough. As Elphaba struggled out of the backseat, hanging onto the door for balance, the sound of running footsteps caught her ear. 

She saw only blonde as a body rammed against her chest, sending vibrations of pain through her tender abdomen and shoulders. But Glinda’s arms pulled her down by the neck into the most ferocious, desperate hug Elphaba had even been given. This hug was followed by a deep kiss, one tasting of rain and practically radiating with fear. Only when Glinda let go and pulled away was Elphaba able to speak: “G—Glinda.” Wrapping the woman close to her, it didn’t matter that they were quickly becoming soaked to the bone in the storm. “Glinda, I’m ok, my sweet. I promise.” 

My sweet? Elphaba didn’t know why that had slipped out. It just did; something almost forgotten that Dulcibear used to say when she was growing up. My sweet.

“Elphie.” Her name was the tiniest whimper on Glinda’s tongue, almost inaudible in the rain. “I thought you weren’t coming back.” 

“I’m here, I’m fine.” Running her hand through Glinda’s now wet hair, Elphaba placed another kiss upon her forehead, resting her chin on her scalp and her lithe body deeper against her chest. “We should go inside.” 

“Just another moment.” 

Elphaba sighed but didn’t argue, catching Chistery’s eye who unhappily lowered the edge of his hat as he passed beside her. 

“I’ll be inside, Fabala,” he muttered. “If you need me.” 

“Thank you, Chis.” 

Watching the ape walk towards the house, Liir immediately ran to meet him. Peaches remained at the window, her blue eyes intense as she watched. Then—as if noticing her staring—someone inside shut the blinds, giving them privacy. Closing her eyes to properly feel Glinda against her, Elphaba exhaled again, only to hiccup a bit as the air caught on a bruise. 

Glinda lifted her head. “Elphie?” 

Damn it. “I’m fine.” 

“Elphaba, are you hurt?” 

“No.” 

“Liar.” Pushing herself fully away, Glinda looked just as terrible as she did when Elphaba left her. Except now she was broken, tired, and soaking wet. “What happened? Tell me the truth, Elphaba Thropp.” 

“Oz happened.” Elphaba’s brows scrunched. “He tried to get me to come work for him. Said he could offer more if I did.” 

Glinda stared at her, eyes taking her figure up and down. The woman bristled in unhappiness. “You talked to him?” 

“Uh. N—not willingly.” Elphaba mindlessly wiped her jaw, feeling a rash forming from the adhesive on the tape. 

“What do you mean? What did you say?” 

Elphaba pursed her lips, shaking her head. A pang of fear echoed in her stomach as she remembered the gun pointed at her head. Had Glinda’s instincts been wrong, she'd have a bullet in her skull right about now. “You saved my life, Glinda.” 

“What?” 

“You saved my life.” Elphaba held Glinda’s arms, feeling the smooth, chilly skin under her palms. “I would’ve died tonight, if you hadn’t sent Chistery after me.” Elphaba hesitantly recounted what had happened, unwilling to lie but not fully wanting to be truthful either. With each new addition to the story, Glinda’s face paled. It didn’t seem possible for her to be any more colorless than she was now, the dull light of the house and the gray of the storm making her almost luminous. Meanwhile, Elphaba was just a shadow; a black blot in the weather. Her hands were like silhouettes as they held Glinda tight, unconsciously gripping her for balance. 

Elphaba had been fucking scared. She was still fucking scared. And despite having kept herself together till now, she was starting to crumble under the truth. She’d almost died. It wasn’t just threats or phone calls now; it wasn’t some hazy recollection or a nightmare she experienced in a dark room. She was about to be executed–the gun was to her head–and her son, Glinda and Peaches would’ve never seen her again. 

“Elphie. Elphie, you’re trembling…” Elphaba’s foot skidded in the gravel. Her knees buckled as she began to collapse, the wind suddenly sucked from her lungs. “Elphie!” Glinda wasn’t strong enough to support her as she landed knees-first on the stones and violently wretched. She could still feel Glinda’s hands on her, one resting on her back, the other pressed against her chest as though feeling her heart. “Elphaba, are you ok?” 

“…n—no.” 

“Lay down for a moment. On your side, just in case you need to be sick again.” 

Glinda guided her slowly, as though she might crack if handled wrong. The gravel poked uncomfortably into her flesh as she rested on her hip, mind dizzy with a million feelings all hitting her at once. Was this how Glinda felt all the time?  

“Doctor!” Glinda’s voice rang like a gunshot. “Someone, please! I need help!” 

Elphaba had never heard Glinda scream like that before. It was raspy and hoarse, so full of fright that it made her lungs rattle. In nothing but thin workout gear, Elphaba could watch the woman’s bruised abdomen constricting as she gasped. It had to be hurting her, what with how ragged the muscles moved, being sucked in and out against ribcage. 

“Glin…Glinda, you ribs.” 

“Don’t worry about me.”

“Glinda, I’m sorry.” 

“For what, darling. Y—you have nothing to be sorry for.” Glinda’s voice warbled as she spoke, the rain and the wind only increasing in severity. It felt like a million tiny razors against Elphaba’s ashy skin, but it was also a relief. A reminder that she wasn’t dead and that Glinda was going to catch a cold out here. 

“You’re going to get sick,” Elphaba muttered, trying to move only to be immediately stopped. 

“Just…stay, don’t move.” Elphaba felt it as Glinda reached out a hand, pushing dark, wet braids over her shoulder. The blonde paused then, her breath hitching. “No.” It was a whisper, one stolen by the wind and the nearing sound of footsteps. “No. No!” Glinda shoved Elphaba onto her back, causing a hiss to escape her. But she remained still as the woman tore open her shirt, revealing the mosaic of wounds beneath. There was only one prong mark compared to Glinda’s several, but still enough to make her go so white and so frigid that Elphaba could practically see through her. “What has he done? What did he do to you?” 

The question didn’t get an answer. Elphaba panicked as Doctor Turtleheart gathered Glinda from behind, scooping her from the ground and onto her feet as she was dragged towards the porch. 

“Glin…?” Elphaba hissed as rain torrented from the sky, wetting her skin and chilling her breath until it was like ice. A shadow crossed over her, familiar and smelling of fresh cigar. “Glinda!”  

“Take it easy, Fabala. I’ve got you, kiddo.”  

Elphaba was picked up easily and carried out of the rain. Glinda had been pulled to the furthest corner of the porch, thrashing against Doctor Turtleheart’s hands as she screamed and cried her heart out in blind and undirected anguish. Taken inside, the warm air of the house was almost too hot against her chilly skin as she grimaced, her eyes closing from the sudden weight of exhaustion. 

“Mom? Mom!” Liir’s footsteps hurriedly padded across the floor. Elphaba felt him grab onto her hand, giving it a shake. “Uncle Chistery, what happened! Mom, are you ok?”  

Chistery’s chest rattled as he spoke. “Liir, go back over there.” 

“But—” 

“Go.” 

The boy whimpered but did as he was told. Elphaba cracked her eyes open in time to see him grab onto Peaches, pulling the little blonde closer to him. Peaches, meanwhile, looked almost as distraught as her mother. Glistening tears bubbled in her eyes as her pink lip wobbled, long, pale blonde hair falling messily into her face. She turned and hid in Liir’s chest, soft cries escaping her usually mute throat. 

“Chis.” Wiggling to get out of Chistery’s arms and comfort the children, her friend held tight. “I have to…I have to get up.” 

“No.” 

“Chistery—”  

“You’ve been through more today than some of my own men, Fabala. You need to recover.” 

“But the kids.” 

“They’ll be alright; no one better to have than each other. Family is everything, but you know all about that.” Chistery chuckled knowingly. “Every man dreams of kissing his dame in the rain. At least all the ones I’ve known.” 

“We aren’t together, Chis. I told you that.” 

“Could’ve fooled me, little bird. That kiss was somethin’ else.” 

“She just needs to be…close to someone, you know? Physical contact.” 

“Mhm, if you say so.” Chistery set Elphaba on the edge of the sink in the nearest bathroom, leaning into the tub to turn the shower on. “Let’s get you warmed up first, then we’ll check for anything broken.” 

“But Chis—” 

“Fightin’ will just make this take longer, Fabala,” Chistery argued, nodding to the now steamy shower. “And you don’t want me to go telling your girlfriend that you’re being stubborn.” 

“She’s not my girlfriend.”

“Whatever.” 

Elphaba sighed and tossed her head, but knew better than to argue. So she chased him out and undressed, stepping into the blissfully hot shower. She felt more stable now, able to sit at the edge of the tub to get warm again. But the thoughts didn’t stop. The gun. The kidnapping. How much worse things could’ve been. She hadn’t been careful; hadn’t been fast or strong enough. Running a palm along her bicep, the muscle had begun to grow small and loose. She needed to fix that. Shaking out of her thoughts, Elphaba stepped from the water and dried off. Chis was waiting just outside the door with a dry pair of pajamas and a first aid kit. Quietly, with only the echo of the storm between them, she allowed her friend to treat her injuries. Miraculously nothing was broken, though she would be sore for a while. As she tied up her braids to get them out of her face, Chistery stood at the window, peering out. 

“Miss Upland is still outside.” 

“What?” 

“I’d think Turtleheart would’ve brought her in by now.” 

Elphaba stood from the bed, testing out her legs to make sure they could hold her. Padding to the window and peeking out beside her friend, Glinda had curled up in a wicker seat. Rain flowed from the roof in streaming rivulets, the gold of the interior lights causing it to sparkle and glisten in the dark of the storm. Huffing and pushing from the sill, Chistery grabbed her wrist. “Where are you going, little bird?” 

“She’ll get sick out there.” 

“You should rest.” 

“We don’t do that very well in this house.” Elphaba grabbed a green blanket from off the bed, balling it into her arms. Leaving the bedroom, Liir found her the moment she was in his sight. 

“Mom!” 

“Hi bubs.” Accepting his hug against her legs, Elphaba ran a hand through his curls. Peaches was already asleep on the couch, perhaps unwilling to go to her room until her mom came back inside. Knowing not to wake her or risk being forced into koala-duty for the foreseeable future, Elphaba gently prodded her son. “Go be with Peaches, please.” 

“But what about you?” 

“I’m ok now, but I need to go talk to Miss Glinda.” 

“Is she ok? Are you ok?” 

“I don’t know, bud. Some things have happened; adult things, but Miss Glinda is very upset right now. She’d be happier, knowing someone big and strong was looking after Peaches. Ok?” 

“Ok. But can I sleep with you tonight?” 

“Of course.” Ruffling Liir’s hair, Elphaba watched him go back to Peaches side and flop down beside her, picking up his plastic flying monkey toy to occupy himself. Exhaling a little at the sight of them so confused and stressed, Elphaba stopped in the doorway to the kitchen on her way out. Doctor Turtleheart sat at the island, a hand stroking his short beard. “Doctor?” 

“Miss Elphaba? My dear, I’m surprised to see you up so soon.” 

“Why is Glinda outside?” 

“I tried valiantly to bring her in, but she wouldn’t come.” The man helplessly shook his head. “It won’t hurt her, having a quiet moment to herself.” 

“What happened?” 

“Extreme stress can aggravate already heightened emotions. Miss Upland has been pacing around this house since you left, no doubt what happened outside was the last of what her mind could take.” 

“But she’s ok, though. Right?” 

“Miss Elphaba, your friend’s state is incredibly volatile. From near comatose to suddenly in hysterics? It’s not good for the heart, especially not one already in pieces. As I said to you before, this may be beyond what I can assist with.” 

“What are you saying?” 

“Something you don’t want to hear, no doubt,” Turtleheart sighed, his furry brows crumpling into wrinkles. “Miss Upland may need more specialized assistance to help her overcome all that has happened. There are excellent facilities I can make recommendations for.” 

“You want her sent away?” Elphaba kept her voice a whisper, not wanting Liir or Peaces to hear. But the sudden spike in her temper made that harder than it should’ve been. “She’s not a loon, sir.” 

“Please shelve your prehistoric and outdated beliefs about my field, Miss Elphaba,” Doctor Turtleheart complained at once. “These facilities are sanctuaries for those like your friend who are struggling. They could help rebalance her, while also keeping her safe.” 

“Safe? Nowhere is safe while that bastard Diggs is walking around–”

“That’s not what I mean, Miss Elphaba.” 

“Then what do you mean? I don’t have time for your weird riddles, Doctor.” 

“Elphaba Thropp, if something doesn’t change soon, your friend is going to do something that will result in her own death. Be it by her own hand, or some other manner. Tonight sealed it. She is not in the correct state of mind, and I fear for not only herself, but for her daughter.”

Elphaba blinked, her shoulders slumping. “You can’t possibly know that.” 

“I told you before, Miss Elphaba. Your friend is already dying. I saw the same signs in your sister before…” Doctor Turtleheart hesitated, touching his beads and sighing. “Miss Elphaba, you care very deeply for Miss Upland. And I can see she cares for you in return. But there are some things that even those who love her cannot heal. She needs more, and she needs it soon. Just, think about it?” Doctor Turtleheart swiped rain from his gray hair and averted his gaze. “She may listen to you.”

“I–I will, Doctor.” 

“Hmm. Go to her, then. She’ll be settled to see you well.” 

Tilting her head and leaving the kitchen, Elphaba clutched the blanket tighter in her hands. Stepping out onto the porch, the change in temperature made her skin rise with a shiver. Glinda still lay in her wicker chair, face hidden in her hands as her chest rose and fell with sobs. 

“Glinda.” Approaching slowly, Glinda didn’t lift her head at first. Slowly Elphaba draped the blanket over her pale frame, shielding her from the storm. “Glinda, my sweet?” Reaching down, Elphaba pushed Glinda’s hands down into her lap. The woman’s eyes were cherry pink from tears, the skin shimmering and swollen. 

“This is all my fault.” Her whisper was broken, and the mere sound of it made Elphaba’s heart ache. 

“I should’ve been more careful–” 

“No! No, Elphaba. Not about tonight.” Glinda’s eyelids struggled to part, her brown irises almost as black as the night around them. “Bringing you into this was a mistake. I should’ve chased you out of that hospital room the first day we met.” 

“Glinda, you don’t mean that.” 

“I do.” Glinda’s face twisted into angered grief. “I never should’ve let it get this far. I should’ve just…sold the company when he offered. Then we wouldn’t be here.” 

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” 

“Well I would,” Glinda snapped angrily, raking a hand through her still wet hair as she curled harder into her knees. “I want you safe. I want you and Liir not to be afraid of a demon that I created.” 

“Glinda–” 

“No, Elphie. N–no, no, I can’t allow this to happen. I can’t. I want you gone.” 

“You’re babbling.” 

“I am not!” Glinda’s jaw clenched in her frustration. “I never should’ve brought you into this. Never. Now you’re in danger, Liir is in danger, Peaches is in danger all because I…” Glinda’s words stopped, her air seemingly escaping her as she dropped her head. “Elphie, I just want this to be over.” 

“I know, Glinda. But chasing me away won’t help. You shouldn’t go through this alone.” 

“Alone is better than putting the people I love in constant danger.” Glinda’s eyes flashed, a spark that almost mimicked lightning as it flickered through clouds. “Elphaba Thropp, I want you gone. I will buy you and Liir first class tickets out of Oz. I will buy you a luxury house somewhere far away from here. I just need you safe. Please, Elphie.” 

Elphaba heaved, resting on her knees at Glinda’s feet. Convincing her that she wasn’t going anywhere wouldn’t work; she could already tell. The blonde was in a state, practically vibrating in her skin under the blanket. She had to try something else. 

“Ok. I’ll leave.” 

“You…you will?” 

“Yeah. If you’re so worried, I understand. But at least let me stay until the funeral; you shouldn’t be alone for that.” 

“Elphie…” 

“Just until the funeral, then if you still want me gone, we’ll pack up and go. Deal?” 

Glinda seemed to think on it, her lips quivering unhappily. But she eventually nodded her agreement. “Deal.” 

“Ok.” Elphaba gave a weak smile, rubbing her hip as she struggled back to her feet. “You don’t plan on sleeping out here all night, do you? Peaches is crashed on the sofa; she won’t go to bed without you safely inside.” 

“You’re too good to me, Miss Elphaba.” 

“That’s what you always say. I have yet to see it.” Offering her hand, Glinda took it as she slowly rose from the wicker chair. Elphaba pulled her closer, wrapping both arms around the woman and consuming her with the blanket. “It’ll be ok, Glinda. I promise you’ll be ok.” 

“I don’t believe you, Elphie,” the woman whispered back, resting her head on Elphaba’s chest, chilling her skin with her still-damp hair. “You shouldn’t make promises you know you can’t keep.” 

Chapter Text

“…Fabala, focus. Do it again.” 

“I’m tired, Chis.” 

“They won’t stop because you’re tired. Again. Three-two-three.” 

Elphaba huffed, raising herself back into a ready position and clenching her fists. The punching-bag had gone soft from how many times she’d struck it, its plasticine surface worn smooth from her wrapped knuckles. But Chistery held tight to the bag as she began her rhythm anew, the jostling movements throwing droplets of sweat across the floor. 

Three-two-three. Three-two-three. 

Each punch rippled harshly through her body, causing the bones and muscles to ache. A reminder of her condition, no thanks to Oscar fucking Diggs. But she ignored the sting, jaw set in a clench as she focused on the bag, making sure each strike was solid and on target. 

Three-two-three. Three-two-three. 

Chistery spoke suddenly, but not to her. “Miss Upland?” 

Three-two—what? 

Elphaba lost her focus as quickly as she gained it. A yelp left her as one fist missed the bag, sending her forward with the swinging momentum. Stumbling to keep from falling over, the mistake resulted in mat-burn across her knees as she buckled, sliding across their makeshift gym setup. 

“E—Elphie—?” 

“I’m fine! I’m good.” Raising a hand to reassure Glinda that nothing was broken, Elphaba got back to her feet, hastily straightening herself. She was in nothing but her spandex bra and shorts, so there wasn’t much to fix up besides pushing sweaty braids back over her shoulder. Puffing from the sudden change of pace, she turned and placed both hands on her hips, fighting to catch her breath. “Glinda, are you ok?” 

Glinda looked a bit tousled. She must’ve only just gotten up despite it being well past noon. The rings around her eyes were dark, while her limbs trembled as she stood in the doorway to the garage. It had been a few days, but the nervous edge around the house had yet to fade. It was nice having the Monkeys around for extra peace of mind, but no part of Elphaba could truly be at ease. Not anymore, anyway. 

The quiet was disconcerting, as was the amount of time Glinda spent sleeping. She was so used to Glinda being up, practically buzzing with energy and unable to stay still. The thought of her being so exhausted that she couldn’t even get out of bed made her chest ache. It was even worse knowing she’d officially gone on bereavement from UCLAP, barely able to make it through the phone call without bursting into tears. Glinda was only getting worse the nearer they got to the funeral, and the warning from Doctor Turtleheart echoed in Elphaba’s mind like a bad dream.  

“I…” Glinda’s dewy brown eyes blinked once, then twice as though dazed. 

“Is something wrong?” Gently taking the woman’s narrow forearms, Glinda’s mouth opened as though to explain, but no sound came out. A faint redness leeched into her pallor, causing alarm bells to go off in Elphaba’s brain. “Glinda? Hey, are you sick?” 

“I—I just came to tell you that I ordered out.” The admission was barely a whisper; a croak as Glinda looked away, staring intently at the furthest corner of the garage. 

“You didn’t have to do that. I could’ve made something if you’re hungry.” 

“N—no, no. You seemed busy.” Glinda’s eyes slowly returned, though stared a bit too long at Elphaba’s stomach, her body wavering as she clenched the open doorway with her nails. “I didn’t want to be a bother.” 

“You aren’t bothering me.” 

Glinda gave a very weak smile, but it came and went so quickly Elphaba thought she imagined it. The woman didn’t look well at all, ready to collapse on legs that were no longer strong enough to hold her. 

“I knew being out in that rain was a bad idea,” Elphaba complained under her breath. “You should go back to bed.” 

“I only just got up.”

“You look queasy.” Caressing Glinda’s cheek, the protruding cheekbone didn’t escape Elphaba’s notice, nor did the clamminess of her skin. She was warm, and not the ‘caught blushing’ kind of warm either. “Are you keeping food down?” 

“Some.” 

“Just some?” 

Glinda looked abashed, ducking her head but not responding with words. Elphaba glanced over her shoulder at Chistery in a silent question. He merely waved his hand, excusing her from the rest of their training. Not bothering to ask for permission, Elphaba scooped Glinda into her arms, concerned when she didn’t even bother fighting. The woman merely crumbled against her like a handful of sand, moaning in discomfort as her ribs bent. 

“What did you order?” The question was mostly just to fill the silence as Elphaba carried Glinda into the nearest bathroom, perching her on the edge of the sink. “For lunch, I mean. What did you get?” 

“Gillikinese cuisine,” She replied, slouching with a weak exhalation of air. Elphaba grabbed a thermometer from the medicine cabinet. “What are you doing, Miss Elphaba?” 

“You, my sweet, are the same color as blackboard chalk.” 

“Aren’t I always?” 

“Better to be safe than sorry.” Elphaba gave the thermometer a shake to wake it up before sticking it in Glinda’s mouth. “Hold it there.” 

Glinda tilted her head, shakily supporting the tool with a hand as she struggled to balance with the other. Elphaba, meanwhile, wetted down a washcloth, dabbing at the grit of several days without a proper shower. 

“I’ve never tried food from Gillikin,” she claimed, once again filling the void Glinda left in their conversation. Having to pry the chatter out of her was painful. “We ate a lot of produce in Munchkinland. Gourds and vegetables, fruit, stuff like that.” 

Glinda didn’t seem to believe it. Her brown eyes silently flickered across Elphaba’s body again, examining each curve with as much intensity as she could manage. “I uh, ate a bit more protein as a teenager,” she admitted with a low chuckle, plucking the thermometer from Glinda’s mouth as it began to beep. She frowned at the numerals. “You’ve got a fever alright, Miss Popular. I told you being outside was no good.” 

“I want to be up, Elphie,” Glinda whined. “Just for a little while?” 

“You’ll eat lunch and then rest more. Alright? You need to feel your best for the service this weekend.” 

“I don’t want to go.” 

“I’m not sure that’s a choice you have.” 

“You can go on my behalf.” Glinda gave a rough tremble, the seemingly insignificant shake traveling through her entire body. “I’ll just stay here.” 

“We can’t do that, Glinda.” Tucking the thermometer away, Elphaba removed a hairbrush instead. “Turn around. Put your legs in the sink.” 

Again, Glinda didn’t argue. She didn’t even grumble, accepting Elphaba’s help to turn around on the countertop and sit halfway inside the sink. This resulted in staring at her own reflection in the mirror, a sharp inhale whispering under her teeth. 

“I look ghastly.” 

“It can’t be helped. Ribs are not easy to heal.” Elphaba spoke as she undid Glinda’s ponytail, ignoring how much hair snapped off in her fingertips. “We move one day at a time.” 

“How are you feeling, Miss Elphaba?” 

“A bit sore, but no worse for wear,” she replied, running the brush through Glinda’s hair to try and detangle it. “I’ve had my fair share of bumps and bruises.” 

“Yes. Running with the likes of Monkeys, I’m sure you have.” 

“Hmm.” 

“Will you ever tell me more about it?” 

“And bore you with the details? I don’t think so.” 

“Hardly boring, rubbing noses with criminals,” Glinda pointed out, frowning. “You were truly that desperate?” 

“I was. I’m grateful to Chis for what he did, both then, and now.”

“My father had a bit of a temper as well,” Glinda croaked, leaning on her knees in the sink as Elphaba braided her hair. “Nothing so terrible as yours, it seems. But he had his moments. I remember the day I left Frottica to attend university. He was the angriest I’ve ever seen him.” 

“What happened to your parents? I—if you mind my asking, anyway." 

“Father had a heart attack. And mother…well…” Glinda seemed to hesitate, her brows furrowing. She seemed lost in her own thoughts for a moment, jumping when Elphaba touched her shoulder. “Sorry! Sorry, um…?” 

“You don’t have to tell me.” 

“No, it’s fine. I just…got lost, for a moment. I‘m ok.” Physically shaking herself, only to wince in pain, Glinda settled back on her knees. “Momsie couldn’t live without Popsicle. She died not long after he did. Heartbreak, they said.” 

“Oh.”  

“Yes. Ironic, isn’t it?” 

Elphaba said nothing. She couldn’t. Was it possible that dying of heartbreak ran in the family? It seemed ridiculous, yet here was the proof. Sitting quietly in the sink, gangly knee’d and hollow eyed as though the weight of the world was just a hair's length from crushing her. The pregnant pause was interrupted by the doorbell, which snapped Elphaba from her thoughts. 

“That would be your lunch, Miss Popular.” 

“Ah. Yes, of course.” Glinda didn’t move despite her words, still balled up on the counter and staring at her own reflection. There was a certain hauntedness in the distant gaze, one that Elphaba hadn’t ever seen before. 

“Are you going to be sick?” 

“No. I just…” Glinda lifted a hand, reaching out to touch the mirror across from her. “Who is this?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“All that’s happened. I don’t—I can hardly recognize myself anymore.”

“Pain changes people.” Elphaba gently scooped Glinda off the counter, careful not to jostle her too much. “I didn’t know myself after Nessa died. Not like I did before.” 

“Do you know now?” 

“Kinda. But I’ll never be the girl I was when I still had my sister. That part of me is gone, and probably always will be.” 

“I would’ve liked to meet that girl,” Glinda croaked as she was princess carried out into the living room, sat down on the sofa as she curled up. “I would’ve liked you to meet who I was before all of this.” 

“We all have parts of ourselves that we miss,” Elphaba admitted, opening the door slowly. A monkey stood on the porch, take-out in hand. Accepting it with a friendly nod, she quickly shut the house and locked it again. “But I wouldn’t want to be the person I was back then.” 

“Why not?”  

“I was less than I am today. And I never would’ve met you if things turned out differently.” Elphaba gave Glinda her best smile, removing a plastic container with a decently large, tropical fresh salad. “A salad? Glinda, you need protein.” 

“Oh tush, there’s nothing quite like a Gillikinese tossed salad,” Glinda chuffed, holding out her hands. Elphaba rolled her eyes but passed the food over anyway. “I’ve been missing home.” Cracking open the container, the smell of fresh greens, chopped fruit, and dressings and spices made Elphaba’s mouth water. It smelled incredible. “There should be another one in there for you.” 

“For me?” 

“I wouldn’t order just for myself, Miss Elphaba. That would be rather selfish, wouldn’t it?” 

Elphaba wanted to complain, but decided against it when she opened the lid to her own lunch and sighed. Her stomach grumbled. Glinda chuckled, patting the cushion beside her. 

“Come, sit with me for a moment. We’ll put something on.”  

Of course, Elphaba had a sneaking suspicion whatever they watched wouldn’t matter in the end. This was proven not long after sitting down. Glinda had attacked her salad with ravenous intent, leaving her completely spent by the time it was gone. Elphaba set her own aside to finish later as the blonde began to doze, her cheeks tinted faintly red from an increasing fever. 

“You’re falling asleep, my sweet,” Elphaba mumbled, catching Glinda before she went tumbling off the couch. 

“I’m fine.” 

“C’mere.” Pulling Glinda closer, Elphaba kicked out her legs to collapse her body, careful not to press into her stomach as she was forced to lay against her. 

“I’m not…tired, Elphie, I swear.” 

“No?” 

“…no.” 

Elphaba twirled her fingers in long blonde hair as Glinda’s eyes shut and she dropped off. 

“Oh Miss Glinda,” Elphaba whispered, petting the woman’s hair and rolling her thumb across bruised eye-sockets. “What am I going to do with you?”

Chapter Text

“…hold still, Liir.” 

“Mom, I don’t want it this way.” 

“I don’t care. Now stop wiggling or this will end up in your eyes.”  

Liir groaned but stopped his impaitent squirming, allowing Elphaba to grab onto his curls and pull them back with a glob of gel. The lights of the bathroom felt too bright in her eyes as she brushed and styled her son’s unruly dark locks, keeping a close eye on him in the mirror. She had to make sure he didn’t loosen the black tie fastened up under his neat white collar while she was distracted. It was strange, seeing the boy in anything but his brightly colored dinosaur shirts. But today wasn’t the day for that. It was a dark day, and Elpbaba was already on edge. 

“Mom?” 

“Yeah, bud?” 

“Is Peaches ok?” 

Elphaba sighed heavily, her hands pausing as she carefully formulated an answer. No was the simple answer. Peaches may have been sweet, but she wasn’t stupid. She knew what the appearance of her pretty black dress meant, and Elphaba didn’t try to stop her as she galloped down the hall, pounding on her mom’s bedroom door in tears until she was let in. Elphaba hadn’t actually seen Glinda yet. They’d spoken briefly through a cracked door, Glinda whispering her instructions on what to wear, what to lay out for Peaches, and what time they needed to be leaving. But it was all said from an all-encompassing darkness. 

Once the conversation had ended the room was quickly closed again, only the sounds of Peaches weeping heard beyond the door. Glinda didn’t want to talk—she had to console her daughter now—and Elphaba understood. 

“Mom?” 

“I—I don’t know, sweetheart.” Shaking her head, Elphaba pushed the worry and sorrow away. Now wasn’t the time to be losing her own sense of certainty. Glinda had to get through today, meaning Elphaba had to as well. “Peaches misses her Dad, bub. She has to say goodbye to him today.” 

“Because he’s dead?” 

“That’s right.” Elphaba put down the hairbrush, trying not to let her hands shake as she gently smoothed down one of Liir’s stray curls. “You’ve never been to a funeral before, Liir. It’s going to be very quiet, and very sad. Miss Glinda is going to be upset; Peaches too. And you’ll need to be on your very best behavior for them. I know that’s not your favorite thing, but it’s just for a few hours.” 

“Will there be other people there?” 

“Yes. We won’t know most of them, but Uncle Chistery is coming with us, and some of his friends.” 

“Oh.” Liir hummed, tapping the points of his neat black shoes together. “Will dad be there?” 

Elphaba’s lip twitched, barely holding itself down to not become a sneer. “No. But he said he’d call after work. You can talk to him then.” 

“Mom, are you sad today?” 

“I am.” Elphaba placed her hands on Liir’s shoulders, hugging him from behind. Not just to reassure herself of his presence, but to rub some of her perfume onto his skin to make him smell a bit less like boy. “I’m sad for Glinda and Peaches.” 

“Then I’m sad too.” 

“You’re allowed to be sad.” Heaving a breath as she rounded the stool, Elphaba knelt to be face to face with her son. “Liir, do you remember when I told you about what to do if you were ever in trouble?” 

“Yeah.” 

“What did I say? Repeat it back to me.” 

“Not to talk to strangers?” 

“That’s right. And what do you do if someone tries to grab you?” 

“Run.” 

“And if you can’t run?” 

“Hide.” 

“Good. And what if neither of those work. Then what?” 

“Fight and make a lot of noise.” 

“Exactly. But Liir, listen. You have to protect Peaches now too, understand?” Elphaba kept a grip on her son’s knees, making sure he didn’t look away from her. “She’s not as strong as you, meaning if something happens, you’ll have to fight for two people. You need to be brave and protect her.” 

“Like you do for Miss Glinda?” 

Elphaba swallowed hard, pursing her lips as she tilted her head. “Yeah. Just like that.” 

“Then I will. I’ll be the strongest brother ever.” 

In a flash Liir was off the stool, making superhero noises as he ran from the bathroom as though in flight. Elphaba remained where she was, slowly rising to her feet as what she’d heard sunk in. Brother? Frowning at the thought, she paused to admire the dress Glinda had chosen for her in the mirror. It was simple, far simpler than Elphaba expected it to be. There was no embroidery, no sequins or glitter. Just a few dark beads lining a moderate collar and sleeves made of dark mesh that covered her arms to the wrists. The skirt was loose, but the bodice hugged her waist. She liked the dress more than she wanted to admit, but knew it wouldn’t get worn again after today. 

“We should get going.” 

Elphaba jumped. Her heckles rose in surprise as she turned, grabbing the sink to keep her balance. “Glinda!” Staring at the blonde now hovering in the doorway, Elphaba’s heart was racing. “Don’t do that, you’re going to give me a heart attack.” 

“Sorry, Elphie. You look nice in that.” Glinda spoke as though winded, drooping against the doorframe. She was in a neat black jacket and pencil skirt, her blonde hair pressed to lay perfectly flat against her shoulders. Her makeup was simple but already smearing under the lower lashes, while she twirled the wedding ring on her finger, her black heel bouncing rapidly. 

“You don’t look too bad yourself.” Pushing away from the sink, Elphaba stepped closer. She caught a whiff of familiar men’s cologne, but kept her mouth shut. “How's Peaches?” 

“Upset.” 

“I can imagine.” Elphaba raised her hand, hesitantly using the back of her finger to brush against Glinda’s jaw. It was sticky with makeup. And, leaning in, she could still see the dark rings under the woman’s eyes despite a painted layer of concealer. “And you?” 

“I don’t feel well, Elphaba.” Glinda’s brows scrunched, revealing the wrinkle between them. “I can’t do this.” 

“I know, but you at least have to try.” Opening her hand, Elphaba felt Glinda’s cheek lean into her palm. She just looked tired; tired and empty as though Oscar Diggs had hollowed her out. “We’ll get this over with and come straight home.” 

“You promise?” 

“Cross my heart." 

“Peaches shouldn’t have lost her father this way, Elphie. It’s unfair.” Glinda’s head thunked against the doorframe, slipping from Elphaba’s fingertips. “And I know it wasn’t an accident.” 

Elphaba froze then, something icy trickling into her gut. She recalled briefly what Chistery had told her, about how the crash was deliberate. She never actually mentioned it to Glinda, either distracted or unwilling to leave her lips. The realization must’ve shown on her face as the blonde gave her wrist a pinch, drawing her attention again. “You know it too, don’t you, Elphie.” 

“Chis may have mentioned something about it.” 

“I’ve known from the very start something wasn’t right,” Glinda muttered, straightening herself and sneering at the air. “Why do you think Oscar bought out the police? Made me seem like a lunatic in the papers? I know his game. He doesn’t stop, Elphie. I know he won’t stop until I give him exactly what he wants.” 

“Glinda—” 

“You have to keep your promise to me. Tomorrow, I want you and Liir out of this house before something horrible happens.”  

“Something horrible has already happened.” Elphaba gently set her hand on Glinda’s waist, watching the woman wince and pull away in pain. “You shouldn’t be alone. You’re not thinking straight.” 

“I’d rather be alone than see you or Liir dead because of me. This has to end, and it’s not going to end with you.” Reaching up with both hands, Elphaba folded easily as Glinda pulled her closer. The kiss was weak and tasted like salt and lipgloss. It lasted only a moment before the blonde slipped from beneath her hands like smoke, wiping her bottom lip with a hand and averting her gaze to the floor. “We need to go or we’ll be late.” 

And so it was that they all piled onto the SUV in a silent shuffle. Glinda strapped Peaches into her car seat, the girl already beginning to doze from a morning of tears. Liir was less willing, though stopped wiggling when Glinda gave him a cold, firm, unrelenting stare. He shut up and sat still the rest of the ride, occupying himself by kicking his feet or drawing patterns on the glass window with his hand. Elphaba focused on driving, following a procession of Monkey vehicles that had been freshly polished for the affair. Chistery was the one in front of them, while three more pulled up the rear. The silence was thick enough to cut with a blade. 

“It’s raining.” 

“Hmm?” Elphaba glanced at Glinda wearily, who hadn’t spoken a word since getting in the car. She looked small in the big leather seat, the pale light of a gray afternoon washing out her makeup. “Oh, yeah. It is.” 

“The service is inside,” Glinda muttered under her breath, pulling at the hem of her skirt. “It shouldn’t ruin anything.” 

“That’s uh…good.” Elphaba awkwardly cleared her throat. After all, what could she say that would make it better? 

“This is all wrong, Elphie,” Glinda insisted again, her brown eyes huge and sleepless. “I’m sorry.” 

“For what?” 

“I…I wasn’t going to make it through today. I needed help.” 

“Glinda, what are you talking about?” 

Glinda heaved a deep breath, checking on Liir the rearview mirror before reaching into her pocket. Elphaba heard the rattle of pills as her fingers clenched around the wheel hard enough to snap it. Slowly, Glinda allowed the full orange medical bottle to rest in her palm. 

“Son of a bitch, Glinda.”

“I’m sorry.” 

“You were doing so well.” 

“I needed them.” Glinda’s hand pulled away as Elphaba made an attempt at the bottle, trying not to swerve in her haste. “Elphie, please.” 

“Glinda, this isn’t…I…you’re not healthy enough for another detox.” Elphaba glared at the road, her shoulders coiling unhappily. “It was hard enough the first time.” 

“I’m fine.” 

“You’re a ghost,” Elphie whispered, glancing over her shoulder at Liir. The boy had fallen asleep, meaning the back seat was perfectly silent. “Where did you get them?” 

“Nowhere.” 

“Answer me.” 

“I…I asked Pfannee to get them for me. I may have been a touch short with them over it.” 

“Noted. Remind me to strangle them after the service,” Elphaba grumbled, rubbing the bridge of her nose. “Glinda, you’re going to kill yourself.” 

“Would that really be such a bad thing?” Glinda tilted her hand to rattle the pills inside her bottle. 

“Yes, it would. You have a little girl who’s just lost her father. I can’t imagine what would happen if she lost her mom too.” Elphaba once again checked the mirror, staring at Peaches sadly. She had a long day ahead of her. “Peaches needs you, Glinda. I need you.” Reaching over the center console, Elphaba snatched the bottle from her friend’s hand. 

“W—wait! Elphie.” 

“We aren’t doing this.” Rolling down the window, she threw out her arm, chucking the bottle into the brush at the side of the road. Glinda’s brown eyes became disks of near-black, her fingers grabbing onto the handle of the passenger side door. Elphaba quickly locked it, resulting in the handle pulling but not releasing under Glinda’s trembling hand. 

“No, no, no! Elphie, why did you do that?” 

“Because you’re better than a handful of pills.”

“But I need those!” 

“You don’t need anything.” Swinging her arm across the seat, Elphaba forced Glinda back, pulling on the vinyl of her seatbelt to lock it down. “You need to get a grip.” 

“I’m not a child!”

“We’ll you’re sure acting like one. We’re going to get through today, and tomorrow we start over.” 

“We?” Glinda weakly pulled against the seatbelt, which gave a locking thunk as she thrashed against it. “You’re leaving tomorrow.” 

“Like hell I am,” Elphaba spit, her grip shaking around the steering wheel. “I’m not leaving you like this.” 

“But you promised!” 

“Well, you know me. Making promises I can’t keep.” Turning expertly into a packed parking lot, the sprawling grounds of the East Side Cemetery was dreary and cold. There were people everywhere, filing into a rather large white chapel. A beautiful black hearse was parked out front, two individuals waiting patiently by the closed back door. Throwing the brake as the car jostled to a stop, there was only the sounds of the rain and Glinda’s weak sobbing in the car. 

“I c—can’t do it, Elphie. I can’t.” 

“We need to get through this, Glinda.” Releasing her grip on the wheel, Elphaba forced herself to pause. Her temper was burning in her gut; anger and betrayal and worry. Huffing and opening the door with a growl of frustration, she was surprised to find a black umbrella already there to block the rain. Chistery stood in his long black coat, face obscured by the brim of his felt hat. 

“Everything ok, Fabala?” 

“No.” Closing her fist, Elphaba uselessly hit the door of the SUV, causing it to rattle. “She slipped.” 

“Slipped?” 

“Adderall.” 

“I see.” Chis’s nostrils flared. “Is that what you threw out the window?” 

“Mmhm.” 

“Sorry to hear.” 

“Chistery, I don’t feel good about today,” Elphaba insisted, running a hand across her face. “It’s been too quiet.” 

“I have my family here, don’ worry about it.” Chis shuffled on his feet. “Keep your wits about you. Trust those instincts.”  

“I will.” 

“We’ll take care o’ the kids, get them inside and cozy,” Chistery insisted, placing a hand on Elphaba’s shoulder. “You just take care of your dame.” 

“Thank you, Chis.” 

The ape nodded, passing over his umbrella so Elphaba didn’t get rained on. Rounding the SUV, monkeys were already swarming, splitting off into groups to secure the perimeter. Sighing heavily, Elphaba opened the passenger side door. Glinda was slumped forward, head in her hands. She had already unbuckled, crumbled painfully over her ribs as tears leaked between her fingertips. 

“Glinda. Glinda, my sweet.” Touching the woman’s shoulder, she barely responded. “We need to go. They’re waiting for you.” 

“I w—want to go home, Elphaba.” 

“We will. It’s only a few hours. All of these people are here for you.” 

“Elphie…” 

Swinging herself under Glinda’s arm, Elphaba practically forced her out of the car, just a tangle of thin, gangly limbs. She was strong enough to find her feet, but still clung to Elphaba’s side. Making sure the umbrella covered them both, Chistery walked by with Peaches in his arms and Liir running ahead, trying to get out of the rain. “So much for keeping him presentable,” she muttered, adjusting herself to have Glinda’s arm wrapped around her unoccupied elbow. “Come on, Glinda. We go in together.” 

Glinda’s air came in short, bereft pants. She leaned heavily into Elphaba’s body, as though her own weight was truly too much for her to bear. “You promise?” 

“Yeah.” They took a step closer to the church and the looming hearse. “I promise.” 

Chapter Text

Elphaba remembered Nessarose’s funeral like it was yesterday. 

The Parish of the Unnamed God had done her sister justice, filling a tiny Munchkinland chapel with white lilies and pale pink tulip buds. Her father had been silent the entire day, his tall black hat casting a warped shadow across his wild, unpredictable gaze. In his gloved hands was a cane that creaked when he put weight on it. It was the very same cane Elphaba remembered from her early childhood; the wood sharp and hot against the skin of her back. She eyed the thing nervously, her foot bouncing. She wondered if the old Thropp would be so bold as to wield it in a public place. 

Elphaba could count on it once they were home again.

After all, her father only ever saw things in black and white. And in his eyes, it was her fault Nessa was dead. Elphaba didn’t deny it. She was supposed to be there for Nessa as a big sister, but chose to leave for University instead. To fall in love, stupidly fuck a man, and get pregnant with his child before marriage. She had yet to tell Governor Thropp what she’d done, once again eyeing his wooden cane. There were ways to get rid of a birth early, and Elphaba knew that with Nessarose gone, the man beside her was just a walking husk. If she told him now, he would surely kill her. 

The small line of mourners filed in, dressed in black with soft hymns and condolences on their lips. Elphaba couldn’t forget how quiet it all was; how heavy her body felt as she sat in the front pew, leaning over her clasped hands as the priest spoke his dues. Nessarose had been faithful till the very end and the Unnamed God would welcome her. Elphaba knew she wouldn’t be so lucky if such a thing was true. She wasn’t good; not like Nessa had been. And the little seed growing inside her was now a punishment for her stupidity. 

Lots had changed since then; it had been years since her sister's death, even if Elphaba carried it as though it were fresh. Her son had grown up, she had lost everything, yet had gained just as much. The East Side chapel was much larger than the one in Munchkinland, rising to a peak high above her head. The heavy beams making up the roof were intricately carved and strung with fairy lights and paper flowers, glinting plesantly. The room was not dark or solemn, but bright and open. Piles of fresh-cut white blossoms crawled up the walls, while silver containers spilled incense smoke into the air. 

The mourners—though all dressed in black—still shone with finery and carried full glasses of wine, chatting or humming songs. The ladies had colorful pins in their hair, while men had gemstones on their lapels. It was a pleasant atmosphere, very unlike the stoic silence of Munchkin Country funerals. At the front of the chapel, a white marble statue of Lurline looked down upon them, small tea-candles in her hands. And as they entered the main hall, it all became very real very fast.

“Oh.” 

Glinda’s knees nearly faltered. Elphaba was forced to catch her, holding the woman up by the arm. The casket had been taken in before they even passed over the threshold, carried by four handsome pole-bearers who kissed Glinda’s hand and whispered to her in Gillikinese. Now, it rest on a neatly laid table under Lurline’s outstretched arms, piled high with roses. Each corner at the base of the casket had been decorated with photographs in golden frames. Not just of Westin, but of Glinda and Peaches too. The biggest picture was a family photo, one of all three Chuffrey-Upland’s together, smiling and happy.

Elphaba had never met that version of Glinda before. She had her doubts that women even existed, soon to be buried beside her beloved. 

“Do you want me to stay with you?” Elphaba brought Glinda closer to the casket. The light atmosphere had gone quiet with their entrance, the gathered assemblage beginning to take seats on ivory painted benches. Glinda’s entire body trembled, her fingers digging hard into Elphaba’s arm. But she ignored the discomfort, giving her companion a shake. “Glinda, do you want me to stay?” 

Glinda didn’t say anything but pulled Elphaba closer with a jostle, wrapping even tighter around her ebow. Don’t leave. Please don’t leave. “Ok. Ok, I’m not going anywhere.” 

Elphaba patted Glinda’s hands, running the flat of her thumb across the bony fingers. The casket was a work of art, lit candles blinking across its smooth, alabaster surface like distant stars. It was framed in gold and silver leaf, the wood itself embellished with small carvings of forest animals and flowers. Elphaba held her breath as they got closer, one of the pole-bearers standing by the head of the table. 

“Miss Upland?” He spoke softly, and his voice was heavily accented. “You requested a closed casket for today. But I can open the lid for you, if you’d like.” 

Glinda stared at him for a moment, finally releasing her grip on Elphaba’s arm. She inhaled and exhaled, lifting her head to reveal eyes brimming with tears. “Elphie?” 

“Yeah.” 

“Where’s Peaches?” 

“With Liir. I can go get her.” 

“Please?” 

Nodding, Elphaba hesitated to leave Glinda on her own. But the woman merely returned her gaze to where her husband now rest, hands folded stiffly in front of her. Stepping away, the crowd of mourners was massive. There were both people and Animals alike, all stuffed onto the benches to pay their quiet respects. No face was familiar enough to make out. Scanning the crowd, Elphaba frowned when she didn’t see Liir, Peaches, or Chistery. Skirting along the outside edge of the room, she happened upon another Monkey keeping watch in the corner. 

“Where’s Chistery?” 

“In the foyer,” the ape answered with a head tilt. Thanking him, Elphaba made her way there. She sighed in relief at finding the trio in a small sitting area, but knew something was wrong as she got closer. Peaches was bright red, heaving deep gasps as she held both hands to her eyes. Tears escaped from her palms in wet streams, causing Elphaba’s chest to ache. Liir was trying his best to console her, the girl caught in his very tight, boyish embrace as she wept. But hugs alone weren’t going to fix it. 

“Fabala,” Chistery greeted. Her old friend was standing nearby, both hands deep in his pockets. His frown was unmistakable. 

“What happened?” 

“Kiddo took one look at the casket and lost it. You seemed busy with Miss Upland, I thought it best we stay out here.” 

“Thank you, Chis.” Patting Chistery on the arm, Elphaba reached into her sleeve and whipped out a tissue. She knelt on the floor by the sofa, leaning awkwardly on a bent knee. 

“Mom, she won’t stop crying.” Liir’s voice was pleading. He had no tears of his own just yet, but seeing his friend in so much distress was clearly upsetting her son. 

“I know, bub. You did everything you could. It’s ok.” Giving the boy her very best encouraging smile, Elphaba leaned forward, one hand on Peaches leg, the other holding the tissue. She pushed the little girl's hands away from her eyes, wiping at them gently. “I’m here, Peaches. It’s alright.” Knowing full well that the blonde couldn’t hear her, Elphaba ran circles on her knee with a thumb, caressing her swollen cheek. The child’s lip wobbled, her blue eyes red ringed and glassy like mirrors. Now with her full attention, Elphaba sat back and did her best to remember her signs: 

Come with me. 

Peaches shook her head, replying with a very simple no. Her face scrunched as Elphaba heaved a breath, glancing back towards the hall. 

“Um.” Lifting her hands again, Elphaba tried something else. Your mom needs you. Come with me, please. 

“…can’t she come get me herself?” Peaches spoke in a lisping whisper, one that Elphaba could actually hear. She shook her head wearily. 

Your mom is hurt. She is with your dad now. 

“I can’t, Miss Elphie,” Peaches croaked. “I can’t.” 

Elphaba’s breath hitched. Hearing Glinda’s words come out of her daughter’s mouth made her eyes sting and her heart ache. She pursed her lips to keep the emotions down, lifting her hands again as they shook to sign. 

Your mom needs you, Peaches. 

Having never actually said Peaches name in sign before, the girl blinked and sniffled. She looked at Liir first, then at Chistery. Elphaba spoke to her again: she is asking for you. 

Elphaba offered her arms, waiting patiently for Peaches to make her decision. It took a minute, but the girl eventually crawled to her. She latched on with ease, hiding her face in Elphaba’s neck with another quiet sob. Rising to her feet, Elpbaba held out a hand to her son. “Liir.” 

“Me?” 

“Yes.” Elphaba scrunched her fingers. “Come on. I need you here too.” 

Liir puffed but slid off the sofa, picking up Peaches crutches from the floor. He took Elphaba’s hand, and once she was sure both children were with her, she guided them back into the chapel. Someone was playing the organ now, filling what had originally been empty silence. Glinda was exactly where Elphaba had left her, head drooped. Walking up the aisle, a sense of unease coiled in her stomach. But with two kids in her arms, she couldn’t focus on the assemblage. Leaving Liir by a chair at the front of a line of pews, Elphaba pointed to it silently. For once, her son did exactly as he was told and sat. 

She continued forward with Peaches, who unlatched to reach for her mom instead. Glinda accepted her daughter with practiced ease and a soft: “Thank you, Elphie.” 

“Sure. Do you need a moment?” 

“Yes, please.” 

Elphaba tilted her head, petting Peaches' hair before gently touching Glinda’s arm. She retreated to where Liir was sitting, crouching beside him. She had a feeling Glinda would need her again in a minute, meaning getting comfortable was not something she’d be doing today. 

“What’s going on, mom?” Liir whispered, turning to look at her. Elphaba swallowed thickly as Glinda stepped nearer to the casket and said something to the pole-bearer. The boy smiled politely, turning to grab the top edge of the casket’s lid. 

“He’s going to open the casket for them,” she replied. “To say goodbye.” 

“Will we look?” 

“No, Liir. Shh now, it’s quiet time.” 

Liir grumbled a little but went silent, the chapel filled with nothing but the rise of organ music. Achingly slow the casket was opened, and just as Elphaba feared, the noise Glinda made echoed. The cry of agony bounced off the walls and to the ceiling. What little strength Elphaba had to hold her composure cracked, her throat constricting with the threat of tears. But that didn’t distract her. She moved quickly, pushing off her bent knee as Glinda was forced back a step, looking ready to crumble then and there. Scooping Peaches out of her arms and to safety, Elphaba couldn’t do much else but hold Glinda’s hand as the woman collapsed to the ground, fallen in the piles of flowers as a horrible scream of pain ripped from her throat. 

“Close it,” Elphaba ordered, refusing to look into the box which was still open. “Please, close it.” 

The pole-bearer did so, dropping his head as he removed himself from beside the casket. There was more noise from the assemblage now; chokes of tears, prayers, whispers. But Elphaba didn’t listen to any of it. She held tight to Peaches, whose back began to rise and fall with sobs. Glinda’s echoing cries were raw, her narrow body trembling as she pulled both hands to her face and hid behind them. Dropping awkwardly to a knee, one arm filled with little girl, Elphaba used the other to pull Glinda closer to her. 

“I’m here. I’ve got you, Glinda.” 

Glinda said nothing, merely continued to weep into Elphaba’s shirt. Eventually Chistery had to be summoned, gently taking Peaches into his arms who was too emotionally spent to put up a fight. Her mother wasn’t much better, Elphaba forced to half-drag her to the side so the official procession of flowers could begin. The attendants of the funeral were somber now, a heaviness laying thick on a once light atmosphere. Each person placed a rose on the casket lid, whispering their prayers or well wishes before moving on. Elphaba urged Liir to do the same, watching him from a distance as he picked up a flower from a waiting vase, stepped up to the casket…and paused. 

His face contorted into a deep frown, dark eyes taking in the scene before him. So distracted watching her son, Elphaba blinked as Glinda left her arm, slipping away like she was nothing more than a ghost. 

She went to Liir’s side, who looked up at her wearily. Glinda crouched, making sure they were eye to eye before whispering something. Elphaba couldn’t hear what was said, but she watched as the woman carefully picked up her son, who clung about her neck with one hand. Seeing as Liir didn’t usually like being held, Elphaba was surprised he allowed it. But she remained dutifully silent as Glinda brought the boy closer to the casket, a conversation being had just for the two of them. They conversed for a time—longer than Elphaba was expecting—before Liir deposited his flower from above, watching it fall onto the pile of blooming stems. He then leaned up to whisper something in Glinda’s ear, who hiccuped with tears and nodded, pressing a kiss to his cheek. 

“…you’re a good boy, Liir,” she croaked, just loud enough for Elphaba to hear. “Thank you.” 

“Maybe, after this, we could get you an ice cream,” Liir replied, causing Elphaba roll her eyes. Glinda just gave a watery laugh, pulling the boy into a tight hug. Her hand raked through his ringlets of curls, petting the hair fondly. 

“Maybe, hon. Go be with Peaches now, she could use a friend.” 

Glinda gently deposited Liir back on the ground, holding her ribs as she watched him sprint back towards the foyer where Chistery had taken Peaches out to nap. Elphaba accepted Glinda’s arm as she returned to her side. “You’ve raised a wonderful son, Elphie,” the woman admitted, her voice hoarse with tears. “He’s going to be a fine young man someday. You should be proud.” 

Elphaba felt something hot balloon in her throat, blocking her airway. She took Glinda’s hand, wrapping up the smaller woman’s palm and giving it a squeeze. 

“You would’ve liked Westin,” she continued, her breaths shaking with each inhale. “He would’ve liked you too.” 

“Do you think so?” Elphaba rocked backwards on her heels. “We lived in very different worlds.” 

“West loved Peaches with all his heart; she was his little princess, you know? But I also think he would’ve liked to have a son. Peaches took after me far more than we thought; West would’ve enjoyed playing catch or going to the museum to look at dinosaur bones. Sneaking out to get ice cream and keeping it a secret so he wouldn’t have to share with me.” Glinda chuckled, like she’d recalled some distant memory that made her smile appear. “I just know that he would’ve loved Liir, and he would be impressed by your dedication in raising him. Despite all the challenges you’ve faced.” 

“Did you ever think about it? Having another kid, I mean.” 

“Not naturally. I love Peaches, but the birth took its toll on me. We were actually researching adoption, but now everything’s changed. That life feels so far away now.” 

“It’s times like these where we wish we could look into the future,” Elphaba agreed, running her thumb across Glinda’s bony knuckles. “Glinda, it’s going to be ok.” 

“How can you possibly know that?” Glinda’s tired brown eyes found deep emerald green. “Elphie, I thought West and I were going to grow old together. When this whole mess began, he told me things were going to be fine too. And now he’s gone. I wish you wouldn’t lie to me.” 

“Westin may be gone, but I’m not.” Elphaba pulled Glinda closer to her so they were hip to hip. “We’ll get through this. We have to. You have to.” 

“Easier said than done, Miss Elphaba,” Glinda managed, once again gazing over the casket with her dewy eyes. She said nothing more after that, allowing them to slip into a bereft silence. Elphaba didn’t let go of her companion’s hand, but she did finally have a moment to focus. To think. And the niggling feeling of unease she felt the entire drive here was back and stronger than before. It was a rolling sense of discomfort; a twisting in her stomach. Glancing over the crowd of mourners, no one really stood out. But then again, to Elphie, all of them were strangers. Listening to the soft prayers placed over Westin’s casket by a Lurlinian priest in white and gold robes, Elphaba waited for the feeling to subside. 

It didn’t. 

She must’ve unconsciously tightened her grip, causing Glinda to glance up at her from where she’d dropped her head. 

“Elphaba?” 

“Something is wrong.” Elphaba shifted on her feet. She suddenly felt very aware of the door, the windows, and the people who surrounded them. “Glinda something is wrong.” 

Before Glinda could ask, a cold shiver ran up Elphaba’s spine. Her head snapped to attention as there was an echo of shouts from beyond the closed chapel door, gaining the attention of those in the back rows. The monkeys stationed in the corners of the room hurried out, only for the noise to increase exponentially. And then, though the melancholy quiet: 

Bang! 

A gunshot. 

Bang! Bang! 

Two more. Glinda grabbed Elphaba’s arm in a vice grip, her breath catching in her throat. 

“Elphie. Elphie, the kids. The kids are out there!” 

Elphaba felt Glinda leave her; she wasn’t fast enough to stop her as the blonde rushed down the aisle. 

“Glinda!” 

The woman opened the doors, and it was nothing but chaos. Monkeys were everywhere, hiding behind overturned tables or shelves. A few were on the ground with wounds, weapons fallen out of their hands. Silhouettes in back suits and green ties were escaping out the front, where four large black SUV’s were waiting. On the floor by the small seating area, Chistery was sprawled across the marble. The old ape held his shoulder, one that was bleeding to create a quickly forming crimson puddle. A white flower that had previously been in Peaches hair was beside him, quickly soaking up blood.  

“Chistery!” 

“…Fabala…!” Her friend struggled to point to the door. “The kids…Miss Upland. Go!” 

Elphaba looked to the exit. Glinda had already disappeared. 

“Fuck!” Sprinting to follow, knowing Chistery would be taken care of by his family, Glinda was already halfway down the sidewalk. 

“PEACHES! LIIR!” She stumbled on her own feet, nearly reaching one of the SUV’s. Elphaba’s heart twisted as the front pair quickly skidded away, windows too dark to see inside. Where were the kids? Where was her son! 

“No. No, no!” Elphaba’s gut was ice; her heart raced. Her son was in that car! Peaches was too. “Liir! LIIR!” 

Elphaba didn’t stop running, but Glinda was forced to halt as a suited man pulled a gun from where he hung out the car window. Elphaba quickened her pace, taking the woman down by the waist just as there was a sharp: bang! 

Elphaba heard the bullet whizz by her head, the top of her ear burning with an explosive heat. She brought Glinda to the pavement with her, who yelped in pain from the fall. The rest of the cars kicked up gravel as they sped away, vanishing from sight around the corner. 

“No.” Elphaba’s chest heaved as she shielded Glinda with her body, who had gone quiet from the shock. Tears flowed from her eyes in thick streams, hands quivering as she held her middle. Elphaba swallowed the rock in her throat, barely hearing the rise of coming sirens or the screams of the people still inside the chapel. She could only hear her own heartbeat, and the woman still pinned under her legs. 

“He has them.” Glinda’s voice was barely a croak as she wept. There was indescribable pain in her voice, strangling the words until they came out as nothing but weak air. “Elphie…Oz has our kids.”