Editorials & Elegies

Chapter X

Enid Sinclair stood outside the upscale restaurant, her heart pounding in her chest. She smoothed down her dress for what felt like the hundredth time, glancing nervously at her reflection in the restaurant's window. The dimly lit interior looked cozy and inviting, a stark contrast to the bustling New York City streets around her. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves.

Finally, a sleek black SUV pulled up to the curb. Enid watched as the driver stepped out and opened the back door, and out stepped Wednesday Addams, looking effortlessly elegant in a simple black dress. Her dark hair was pulled back, and her sharp eyes immediately found Enid, a small, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

"Wednesday," Enid greeted, her voice a little breathless. "You look amazing."

Wednesday nodded, her eyes scanning Enid's outfit appreciatively. "You look beautiful, Enid. Shall we?"

Enid nodded, her nervousness melting away slightly under Wednesday's steady gaze. They walked into the restaurant together, the dim lighting and soft music creating an intimate atmosphere. The host greeted them warmly and led them to a cozy, secluded table in the corner of the room.

"Your table is ready. Enjoy your evening," the host said, giving them a polite nod before leaving them alone.

Enid looked around, taking in the elegant décor and the soft glow of candlelight that bathed the room in a warm, inviting light. "This place is beautiful. Thank you for suggesting it, Wednesday."

Wednesday settled into her seat, her eyes never leaving Enid's. "I thought it would be a fitting place to celebrate our successes."

Enid felt a pang of awkwardness. She had assumed this might have been a date, not a celebration. She forced a smile, trying to mask her disappointment. "Yeah, it's perfect."

They both took a moment to glance around the restaurant, appreciating the ambiance. The soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses created a soothing background noise. Enid took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing thoughts.

"So," Enid began, "how's everything going with the book launch? It must be exciting."

Wednesday nodded, her expression thoughtful. "It's been a whirlwind. There's so much to do, and the media attention has been... intense."

Enid nodded sympathetically. "I can imagine. They can be relentless."

Wednesday's eyes darkened slightly. "Yes, but it's all part of the process. I've learned to take it in stride."

The host returned with their menus, placing one in front of each of them. "Here are your menus. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask," he said, before quietly stepping away.

"Thank you," Wednesday said, her voice calm and composed.

As Enid reached for her menu, her hand accidentally brushed against Wednesday's. A jolt of electricity shot through her at the contact, and she froze for a moment, looking up to meet Wednesday's gaze. Their eyes locked, and for a brief, tender moment, neither of them moved. Then, almost instinctively, Enid shifted her hand, gently taking Wednesday's in hers.

The soft candlelight cast a warm glow on their faces, and the quiet murmur of other diners created a private bubble around them. Enid's heart raced, but she felt a sense of calm wash over her as she held Wednesday's hand.

"I'm so glad I was given the assignment to work with you," Enid said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Wednesday was quiet for a moment, her expression thoughtful. She looked at Enid with soft eyes, her grip on Enid's hand firm and reassuring. "I am too."