Editorials & Elegies

Chapter XV

Enid's heart pounded with each step as she ascended the black spiral staircase, the iron railing cool beneath her fingertips. The echoes of her footsteps bounced off the vintage brick walls, amplifying her nerves. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the confrontation ahead. The loft space had been transformed into an atmospheric haven for the book launch, but all the décor and ambiance faded to the background as her mind fixated on Wednesday.

Reaching the top of the stairs, Enid found herself in a small, quiet room. It was dimly lit, the soft glow of a vintage chandelier casting shadows that danced across the walls. There, in front of an ornate mirror, stood Wednesday. Enid's breath caught in her throat. Wednesday was stunning, dressed in a beautiful, elegant black dress that hugged her figure perfectly. She was composed, her fingers delicately adjusting a silver necklace, her dark eyes focused intently on her reflection.

Enid swallowed hard, summoning the courage she needed. "Wednesday, we need to talk."

Wednesday's expression remained stoic, but her eyes flickered with surprise. She quickly masked it, continuing to adjust her necklace without making eye contact. "Enid, now isn't the time—"

"Please, just listen," Enid interrupted, her voice soft but firm.

Wednesday sighed, her hands stilling as she stared into the mirror. Enid could see the conflict in her eyes, even if Wednesday wouldn't meet her gaze.

Taking a deep breath, Enid walked forward, her steps hesitant yet determined. She stopped just behind Wednesday, close enough to feel the warmth radiating from her. She looked into the mirror, seeing both of their reflections side by side. The sight made her heart ache with a mixture of longing and determination.

"I don't care what the media, or what anyone thinks. I love you, Wednesday," Enid said, her voice trembling slightly but filled with conviction.

Wednesday closed her eyes, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Enid..."

"I've never felt this way about anyone before. I need you to know that," Enid continued, her voice growing stronger. "I need you to understand how much you mean to me."

Wednesday's eyes opened slowly, but she kept her gaze on her own reflection, avoiding Enid's eyes. "Enid... Please,"

Ignoring Wednesday's plea, Enid gently placed her hands on Wednesday's shoulders, feeling the tension in her muscles. She slowly slid her hands down Wednesday's arms, feeling the smooth fabric of her dress beneath her fingertips, until her hands covered Wednesday's.

"I'm in love with you," Enid whispered, her voice barely audible but echoing in the stillness of the room.

Wednesday's silence was deafening. Enid could see the turmoil in her eyes, the battle between her emotions and her resolve. She watched as Wednesday's expression softened, a glimmer of vulnerability breaking through her composed façade.

For a moment, they stood there in silence, the weight of Enid's confession hanging in the air. Enid's heart pounded in her chest, each beat feeling like an eternity. She could feel the rise and fall of Wednesday's breathing, could sense the emotions swirling within her.

Finally, Wednesday turned her head slightly, her eyes meeting Enid's in the mirror. The vulnerability in her gaze was like a knife to Enid's heart, cutting through the tension with a painful clarity. But she didn't look away; she held Wednesday's gaze, pouring all her love and sincerity into her eyes.

"Enid..." Wednesday's voice was barely a whisper, filled with a mixture of pain and longing.

Enid's heart ached for her, wanting nothing more than to ease her pain. "It's okay," she said softly, her hands squeezing Wednesday's gently.