When You're An Addams

You Need To Feel A Little Chill

April stared up at the dark mansion looming above her, dread seeping into her bones before a misty drizzle began to fall around her. An eerie wind sent a chill up her spine that spread out to cloak her skin in gooseflesh. Was this really a good idea? If it wasn't, it was certainly too late to do anything about it, now. Feeling the gentle insistence of the steady rain, she tilted her face up to greet it, closing her eyes with a deep inhale and exhale. She had always liked the rain. Especially this gentle sort. It made edges softer, diffused harshness while being just present enough to root yourself within the feeling of it's gentle taps. Everything would be fine. She had dealt with truly awful living situations before. This was just a little room in a historic building. She would manage. She always did.

"Are you April?"

A startled squeak escaped her as April spun to face a young teenage girl. Relaxing slightly, she nodded.

"Y-Yes. Apologies, I startle easily. I'm working on it." She managed shakily, trying to put on a convincing smile as she offered her hand "I assume you're the daughter I was told about. Wednesday, right?"

The girl, pale with black hair in neat twin braids simply looked her in the eyes for a long moment, as if searching for something. Just as April felt convinced she would fall, spiraling forever in the dark depths of the velvety, nearly ink-like brown eyes, Wednesday shifted her gaze and took her offered hand.

"This will be interesting." Before April could question what she meant, Wednesday had turned their hands, grip surprisingly strong as she studied April's nails closely. She kept them long and almond shaped, not quite pointed, and generally painted in darker tones. This time was no different, a dark maroon with gold details. "Have you considered hu zhi to protect your nails? I can sharpen them for you. It would be an effective defense."

"...Hu what?"

"APRIL! We had not noticed your arrival! How excellent!" At her name being bellowed out, she startled once more, her hand still captive as she turned to see the man from the video call interview rapidly approaching. Soon her other hand was held in both of his as he gave an excited squeeze. "I appreciate an individual who can nearly disappear! Quite invigorating to be caught unawares!" She simply nodded mutely, unsure how to respond. They were certainly odd, and the house was questionable from here, but...its what she could afford that had enough space for her books while still being in walking distance to campus. Well, and within her budget.

"Morticia just put the finishing touches on your room! Will you be joining us inside?" Mr. Addams' asked merrily.

"Oh! Yes! S-Sorry, I didn't mean to make y'all wait. Let me start bringing in my bags." She managed as she finally broke free of their holds. Rushing to the back of the rented truck to get her things, she easily snagged a duffle bag to throw over her shoulder. Only then to struggle with the large rolling suitcase full of her books. Well, the first one, anyways. There were three smaller ones, then her specially packed box of rare and vintage tomes. "It may take me-a few-trips." She informed between careful tugs. Before she could resume her battle, a calm, clear voice cut across the yard.

"Gomez, why is this young lady trying to carry her own bags?" Frozen, she gaped at the unearthly beauty descending the front steps. Noble, slender, with flowing black hair and a gown that perfectly clung to her like rippling ink with a bright spark in her eyes. An oil spill. Beautiful and eye catching, yet readily choking out life.

"Cara Mia! Please, allow me to introduce our cousin, April!" April wondered at being called their cousin before a large hand grasped the strap of the duffle bag, easily pulling it off her shoulder. Looking up, she swallowed hard at the sight of the hulking giant of a man who barely nodded a polite hello.