Editorials & Elegies

Chapter XII

Enid entered the Nevermore office with Yoko by her side, both feeling a rare sense of relief. The bustling streets of New York City, which had previously been swarming with journalists and photographers eager to capture a piece of the Addams family mystery, were unusually calm that morning. Enid was fully prepared to dodge the cameras, but today was different. Today, she could focus on her work without the looming threat of an intrusive lens.

"Can you believe it?" Yoko said, adjusting her sleek glasses. "Not a single reporter in sight. Maybe they're finally giving up."

Enid chuckled, her eyes scanning the familiar office space. The Nevermore office was a blend of modern chic and gothic elegance, reflecting the eclectic tastes of its CEO, Larissa Weems. Enid's desk, cluttered yet organized, was her sanctuary amidst the chaos of the media world.

"I doubt it," Enid replied, her voice tinged with amusement. "They're probably just planning their next ambush."

Yoko rolled her eyes, her dark lipstick catching the light as she smirked. "Well, let's enjoy the peace while it lasts."

As they made their way to the conference room, the usual hum of the office seemed more subdued, the air thick with anticipation. The upcoming book launch of Wednesday Addams' debut horror novel was the event of the year, and everyone felt the weight of its importance.

Enid pushed open the door to the conference room, revealing Larissa Weems standing at the head of the table, exuding her usual air of poised authority. Bianca was already seated, her posture immaculate as she scrolled through her tablet. She glanced up, offering Enid a small, sorrowful smile.

"Good morning, everyone," Weems began, her voice commanding attention. "We have a lot to cover today, so let's get started."

Enid took her seat next to Yoko, pulling out her notebook and pen. She could feel Bianca's eyes on her, and she met her gaze with a reassuring nod.

"We'll go over the final details for the launch event tomorrow," Weems continued, her eyes scanning the room. "Bianca, I trust that you're okay with covering Enid's spot with Yoko for tomorrow?"

Bianca's expression softened, her eyes conveying a silent apology as she replied, "Of course."

Enid forced a smile, trying to hide her disappointment. She had been looking forward to covering the event.

"Thank you, Bianca," Weems said, her tone brisk but appreciative. "Now, let's go over the schedule one more time."

The meeting proceeded with meticulous detail, Weems outlining every aspect of the launch event. Enid found herself drifting, her mind wandering back to her Wednesday, and the radio silence she had found herself in. Not a single notification on her phone, and no returned calls. It was like Wednesday had completely disappeared. Which, now that Enid thought about it, was entirely in character.

"Enid, any trouble getting to work today?" Weems' voice snapped her back to the present.

Enid cleared her throat, sitting up straighter. "Um, no.. Everything's all good now."

"Good," Weems nodded. "Then we made the right decision."

The rest of the meeting passed in a blur, and soon they were dismissed. As Enid and Yoko made their way back to their desks, Bianca fell into step beside them.

"Sorry about the change, Enid," Bianca said, her tone genuinely apologetic. "I know you were looking forward to it."

Enid shrugged, trying to play it cool. "It's okay. Besides, you'll do a great job."

Bianca smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Thanks. I'll do my best."

Yoko nudged Enid gently as they reached their desks. "Hey, cheer up. You'll probably still be able to go. You just can't work it."