𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 | bridget and hook

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 Bridget's heart sank as she recognized him, remembering all too well the incident with Uliana and the flamingo cupcakes just a few days ago.

Hook's eyes narrowed slightly as he steadied her with a quick hand. "Well, well, if it isn't Bridget. Quite the reputation you've built with those cupcakes of yours."

Bridget wished she could disappear. Knowing that Hook was definitely mad about what had happened to Uliana, she tried to put on a brave face. "Uh, hi, Hook. I'm really sorry about what happened the other day. It was an accident, I swear."

Hook's expression was hard to read, a mix of amusement and irritation. "Accidents happen, sure. But turning someone into a flamingo head? That's a bit more than your average mishap, don't you think?"

Bridget bit her lip, feeling the weight of the situation. "I know, and I'm really sorry. I didn't mean for that to happen. I warned her, but..."

Hook held up a hand, cutting her off. "Save your apologies, lass. What's done is done. Uliana's been the talk of the academy, and not in a good way. But you're lucky I'm feeling generous tonight. Consider it your lucky break."

Bridget blinked, surprised by his unexpected leniency. "Thank you, Hook. I really appreciate it."

He sighed, then gave her a roguish smile. "Don't think you're off the hook just yet. You owe me, and I plan to collect when the time is right. But for now, let's enjoy the festival, shall we?"

Bridget nodded, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. "Sure. That sounds good."

As they walked through the festival, Bridget couldn't shake the feeling that Hook's leniency came with a price. She turned to him, curiosity and wariness in her eyes. "So, what's the catch, Hook? You're not exactly known for letting things slide."

Hook laughed, the sound both charming and slightly sinister. "Ah, you're a sharp one, Bridget. There is indeed a catch. You see, I've decided that you will be my personal assistant for the next month."

Bridget's eyes widened in surprise. "Personal assistant? What exactly does that mean?"

Hook grinned, clearly enjoying her reaction. "It means you'll be helping me with various tasks and errands. Whatever I need, whenever I need it. Consider it a way to repay your debt for the flamingo cupcake fiasco."

Bridget felt a mix of relief and dread. At least he wasn't planning something worse, but being at Hook's beck and call for a month sounded daunting. "Alright, Hook. I'll do it. I owe you that much."

"Good," Hook said, clapping her on the shoulder. "You'll start tomorrow. But for now, let's enjoy the rest of Castlecoming. I promise not to make you run any errands tonight."

As they continued to walk through the festival, Bridget couldn't help but feel the need to defend herself. She turned to Hook, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "You know, I didn't even do anything wrong. The whole flamingo cupcake thing wasn't my fault. I warned Uliana not to eat the feathers, and Ella tried to stop her too. She just didn't listen."