Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Summer 1993,

It seems to most that the Appalachia Region is full of rundown buildings, periods of nothingness, and completely isolated, but to Willow Park, it’s her home. Sure, it may not be the best place to grow up in, but it could be worse. She loved the nature of the region, filled with the elegance of the natural world the area has to offer. She had a couple of friends there, a young child prodigy named Augustus Porter who was two grades ahead of his peers, a young afro-latina girl named Luz Noceda who would visit in the summer and she and Willow would write to each other, and she even began reconstructing her friendship with Amity Blight, the town’s rich girl who she broke off with because that bit- Odalia forced her.

Despite all that, her life isn’t all roses and sunshine. Boscha and her gang always use her as a figurative punching bag, picking on her for her looks, her weight, her fathers, and her ‘having no life’ as they like to say it. Her home life was well off as her father worked for the railroad and her other father worked at the town hall, but they have been getting real busy lately and she had been usually been home alone. However there was one place she would go and that was the railroad tracks a mile or two down from her cabin.

 It was her favorite place due to the nature surrounding the place, despite the loud noise, smoke and smoot caused by the smoking, oily and grimy diesel locomotives hauling whatever material that required such antiquated methods of transportation. As a child, she and sometimes Amity would just simply visit the tracks, jump onto the first open railcar and watch the mountain scenery roll by for hours on end and hop back on a return train home.  Despite her father working for the railroad, she hadn’t been caught by her parents nor the railroad bears that would look for stragglers riding aboard.

Packing herself a couple of drinks and some sandwiches for the ride, Willow headed out of her cabin walked towards the lonely crossing where the gravel road meets steel rails. Usually, the trains would usually haul hoppers filled with black diamonds (known better as coal), but there were a couple of general freight trains filled with much more colorful railcars than the ugly drab corporate looking hoppers carrying the railroad’s name and its predecessors. Some days, Willow would enjoy riding in the empty boxcars, other days she would feel nostalgic and ride on top of the open coal hoppers and would just lay about and roll around in the load like it’s a ball pit like she had done when she was young and dumb. Waiting for the next train to come, she soon looked at the dilapidated railroad signal showing an dim emerald light on the top signaling that the next train will come at any moment. Now, she knows that freight trains don’t usually follow a strict schedule, but she can determine what the most expected time one will come through is.

 As she waited, she can hear the growing sounds of the sixteen cylinder diesel locomotives chugging up the mainline. Unlike the coal hoppers, the locomotives were a little bit more colorful, but like the coal hoppers they were usually pulling, they were covered in soot and grime from years and years of service without a repaint, nor a wash. However this train was a general manifest, so at least she would ride inside the boxcars or if she wanted, some of the gondolas. She soon noticed one of the empty boxcar doors open and grabbed on the handlebars and entered into the railcar. Watching the scenery out of the railcar, she was enjoying herself that is until she saw a strange person inside the same railcar as her.

“So, is this your first rodeo?”

Willow was surprised as she laid eye contact towards the stranger, “um, Not really?”

“Oh, where are my manners?” The stranger said as he reached his hand out, “The name’s Hunter.”

“Willow,” she said, “Willow Park. I assume you like to freight hop from time to time.”

“Well,” Hunter said, “You can say that, but I am what people call a hobo.”

“A hobo?”

“Well, not really,” Hunter said, “It’s pretty personal and I had to run away from home. I guess you are a runaway like me.”

“Nah, I just do it to get away from my troubles,” Willow said nervously as her stranger danger levels were still heightened.

“I guess your home life isn’t the best,” Hunter said.

“No, no, it’s not that,” Willow said nervously, “It’s just that some people are just dickheads.”

“Bullies I suppose?” Hunter said.

“Yeah,” Willow smiled, “So, do you live in this area?”

“Nah,” Hunter said, “I used to live in Oregon and have been hoboing for a couple of years. How about you?”

“I lived in this area here and have been doing this for around around four years,” Willow said as her guard soon lowered, “I used to do it with a friend of mine, but we became estranged for a couple of years, but now we became friends again.”

“That’s cool,” Hunter said as the two soon conversing for a couple of hours until Willow realized that she missed her jumping off point.

“Shit! I missed my jumping off point,” Willow said, “There is this small town that I would jump off at and would hang around said town until a southbound comes by and I would ride it home.”

“That’s okay,” Hunter said reassuringly, “I think there is a jump off point coming soon. I think there is a yard of some sort and I believe that a southbound may be ready.”

“How do you know?” Willow asked concerning, “Have you hopped this line before?”

“It’s a pretty common line that I hopped,” Hunter said, “I have been hopping around the CSX system for around a month now and this is one of the trains that I hopped.”

“Heh, small world” Willow chuckled, “Anyhow, I’ll take your word for it.”

Hunter was soon right as the train stopped at the yard Hunter mentioned.

“So, when can I see you again?” Willow asked the older blonde.

“Hopefully soon,” Hunter said, “This train will go to a town called Russell in Kentucky and I may take the return train or maybe end up in either Richmond or somewhere in Ohio. If I don’t see you again, then it was a pleasure to meet you.”

“You too as well,” Willow smiled as she got off the boxcar. She soon waved her new friend goodbye. She soon walked around the nearby town next to the yard.

Hunter stayed in the boxcar that is until he saw the crew walking along the train to inspect any issues with the railcars until he notice they noticed Hunter in one of the cars.

“Hey kid,” The conductor said, “What are you doing here?”

Hunter stammered trying to make up excuses.

“Come down of the car kid,” The conductor said, “We need to find your parents.”

Hunter soon broke down and froze up.

“Kid? Are you okay?” The conductor said, “Sir, Are you okay?”

Hunter was mute.

“Come on kid, let’s get you inside my office.”

Chapter Text

Hunter was in the yard office with the yardmaster. He was looking at his records and was pretty impressed with Hunter’s family history.

“Hunter Wittebane, Born June 12^th 1977 in Boiling Isle, Oregon. Parents of the late actor Caleb Wittebane and singer songwriter Evelyn Clawthorne. Wow, you know I am a huge fan of Evelyn’s music and ‘Hollow Mind’ is like my most favorite movies and I am talking to their kid. You just look like her mother.”

Hunter soon looked up and whispered, “Thanks.”

“I feel sorry for what happened with you,” The yardmaster, “My father died in an accident when I was four years old myself. Where are you living with?”

Hunter soon shuddered, “Belos.”

“Who is this Belos figure?” The yardmaster asked.

“He’s my uncle,” Hunter said, “He... He… He hurts me.”

“What do you mean?” The yardmaster asked.

“I don’t want to explain it,” Hunter said anxiously.

“Come on, there has to be a reason why you ran away,” The yardmaster said.

Hunter soon lifted his shirt revealing all the scars that his uncle gave him prior to him running away.

“Oh shit, I’m so sorry,” The yardmaster said, “Do you have any other family that can take you in?”

“I don’t remember if I have any family from around here,” Hunter said, “I know this is the Appalachian region, but I don’t know where exactly.”

“Well, this is the CSX office in Latissa, Virginia located around an hour north of Bonesborough, Virginia by rail,” the yardmaster responded.

At last the conductor came in,

“Hey sir, did you contact his parents?”

“Well Steve, have you heard of Evelyn Clawthorne?”

“Yes, I have a couple of her albums at home, what does it have to do with this kid?”

“Well, this is her son. Hunter Wittebane.”

“Yeah and Prince is my third cousin,” The conductor chuckled, “You have to be kidding me.”

“I’m not, his parents were murdered when he was four. And he had been living with that disgrace of his uncle for a decade,” The yardmaster explained, “I saw the scars on him and it isn’t pretty.”

“You know, I think I know Evelyn’s sister. He’s my friend’s wife and she lives just outside Bonesborough at that one house next to the mainline. She always gives us a lunch whenever we had to stop by there.”

“Wow, small world. Anyhow, we should give her a call and she if she is able to take him in.”

“Alright sir, anyhow, I got to get my train rolling. It’s already late as it is now.”

“Take care Steve,”

“You too as well Darius.”

Darius soon looked towards Hunter, “You’ll love Miss Edalyn. She always gives us pastries whenever we had to wait in the siding. In fact, we even got management to name the siding after her house.”

Darius soon called Eda and she suggested for Hunter to be dropped off at her house. Arrangements were made and Eda began to set up the guest room. Darius decided to have Hunter ride in an southbound coal train and have it stop at Eda’s siding.

“Hey there little prince,” Darius said reassuringly, “You’ll be riding down in the cab of that southbound coal train that just pulled in. Once the train approaches this place called ‘The Owl House’, Your aunt will come get you.  Look for the locomotive number 8128 and that’s your ride.”

“Thanks Darius, I’m sorry this happened,” Hunter said.

“Don’t worry about it sir, everything is going to be alright.”

Willow soon jumped off a southbound at her crossing remembering her new friend as she walked up the road and into the cabin. She thought that she heard some railroad workers call him out, but she hoped that he made it out okay.

“Ah Willow,” Her father Gilbert, “How was your day?”

“It was good,” She smiled, “I made a new friend today.”

“Cool,” her other father Harvey said, “What’s their name?”

“His name is Hunter,” Willow said, “He’s a little bit older, but he seems nice.”

“That’s good to hear,” Gilbert smiled, “How’s Gus, Luz and Amity?”

“Oh Gus is doing good,” Willow responded, “He just got a computer recently and he showed us this new game he programmed.”

“Cool, Maybe he can help me fix that stupid printer at the yard office,” Gilbert chuckled, “I swear if I keep seeing that damn PC Load Letter error again. I am going to take it to a field and destroy that fucker.”

“Now Gilbert,” Harvey said, “Language. Go on sweetie.”

“Luz and Amity are still together,” Willow smiled, “They showed me their new Azura fanfiction and it’s actually pretty intense in a good way.”

“Future Authors I suppose,” Harvey chuckled, “Now let’s make us some dinner.”

The three had themselves some dinner, usually, it wasn’t common for the three to have dinner together as Harvey would usually be out on the rails or Gilbert having a late shift, but the three continued conversing about the day’s events until it was getting late. That night, Willow laid down in her bed remembering the kid on the train she met that day. She hoped that he’s okay… and she hoped that she can see him again one day, but fate comes in many many ways.

Chapter Text

“CSXT 691 Emergency at Owl House due to a hot box.”

In all truthfulness, telling the dispatcher that they are stopping at some random siding on an busy mainline to drop off the son of two dead celebrities will cause some heads to turn and the crew getting a mandatory urine test to see if they are high, but a hot box is much more excusable. Even then, it seems more accurate to say it is a hot box, just replace the B in box with F.

The long train stopped by the lone siding where a tall foxy woman with a picnic basket of sandwiches was waiting for them.

“Good Evening Eda,” The engineer said as he and Hunter got down from the locomotive, “Thank you so much for taking in Hunter on such short notice.”

“It’s alright,” Eda smiled, “I don’t mind taking care of another kid again even though I already got my partner, son and my surrogate daughter to take care of.”

“An surrogate Daughter?” The engineer chuckled, “Are you sure you’re not a witch that lures kids into your house just so you can eat them?”

“Hey now,” Eda snorted, “I’m on a kid-free diet. Anyhow, I believe this is Hunter, right?”

“Ah yes,” The engineer said as he eyed Hunter, “Hunter, this is your Aunt Edalyn Clawthrone, or you can just call her Aunt Eda, Miss Eda, Eda The Owl Lady, whatever floats your boat.”

“Hey,” Hunter waved awkwardly.

“Anyhow, I gotta go, the hotbox is magically fixed all on it’s own now. Thanks for everything.”

“No problem sir, safe travels and don’t die,” Eda smiled as the engineer entered into the cab.

“You too as well,” the engineer smiled as he blew his horn and slowly departed the lone siding. Hunter and Eda soon walked up towards the Owl House.

“So, this here is The Owl House,” Eda said as she showed Hunter the house, “This is the living room and this little rascal is my son King. He’s around eight years old”

“Mama, I’m hungry, when are we going to have dinner?” King asked.

“In a few moments King,” Eda smiled, “I have to show your cousin around.”

“That’s my cousin?” King said happily, “I never ever saw him in all my life. My name is King, what’s your name.”

“It’s Hunter,” the blonde said.

“Anyhow, welcome to our home. Watch out for Luz, she’s taken.”

“Now now King,” Eda chuckled, “Be nice to your cousin.”

“Oh ok,” King pouted.

“Anyhow, let me show you your surrogate sister,” Eda said towards Hunter as she introduced him to Luz, “Luz will be staying with us during summers as she lives with her mother in Connecticut during the school year.”

“Hello,” Luz smiled, “You’re new here. I’m Luz. Luz Noceda.”

“Yeah, I guess so,” Hunter said, “The name’s Hunter, Hunter Wittebane.”

“I heard you are a hobo,” Luz asked curiously, “What’s it like?”

“Oh, it’s difficult to do it nowadays than it is in the 1930s,” Hunter responded, “Especially with the bears roaming about.”

“Oh, do you use a bindle,” Luz asked.

“Nah,” Hunter scoffed, “I used a bookbag to carry my stuff. Not everything on television and in the movies is accurate.”

“You have a point,” Luz responded.

Eda then showed Hunter to her partner Raine and the family ordered pizza that night as Eda didn’t feel like cooking.

That night, Hunter settled in his new room. He wondered how Willow was doing, but it was nice to be in the same area as her.

The next morning, Eda soon registered Hunter with new documents, including getting him his driver’s license as a way to give Hunter a freedom that he didn’t have under his Uncle Philip. She even gave Hunter her old Mustang that she had since she moved to the area that Raine kept trying to convince Eda to sell because it was looking more of an eyesore than when she bought it and that the excuse of ‘saving it for King when he turns 16’ is getting thinner.

At first, it was simply to the town square and back, but as soon as he got used to the car, he decided to explore the backroads and discovered a few new places around the valley. He even used it to run errands for Eda.

It had been a week since he moved into The Owl House and he decided to join Luz in hanging out with her friends.

“You’ll love Gus and Willow,” Luz chattered towards Hunter as he was driving, “Gus is a like a mastermind when it comes to computers, I think he even programmed a couple of games and I think one of them are pretty popular with the other nerds. Oh and you’ll totally love Willow…”

“Willow?” Hunter asked, “You know her?”

“Yes,” Luz asked in concern, “Why?  Do you know her?”

“I met her while I was train hopping before I came here,” Hunter explained, “Isn’t she the short stocky girl with green eyes and navy blue hair?”

“Why yes she is,” Luz responded, “I know Amity told me that she used to freight hop with Willow back when they were kids, but her mother was like a total bitch to Amity and made her break off her friendship with Willow. I think she told me a couple of days ago about you.”

At last, the two drove up the road heading up towards Willow’s cabin, crossing over the familiar tracks that she frequently freight hops at and now pulling up towards the cabin. Gus, Willow and Amity were there waiting out for them on the patio.

“Wow, I didn’t know Miss Eda had a Mustang,” Gus said in awe, “That’s amazing, but I think it needs a touch up.”

“I will have to agree with you Gus,” Amity smiled, “Anyhow Luz, who’s the new guy.”

“Oh, everyone, this is Hunter Witte- Clawthrone. He now lives with Eda forever.”

“Please to meet you Hunter,” Gus said as he shook his hand.

Hunter soon looked towards Willow.

“Willow?”

“Hunter! I heard what happened,” Willow asked, “Did you get into trouble?”

“Not really,” Hunter responded, “The yardmaster was surprised that I was related to my parents and I found out that my Aunt Eda lived at that house near the main line.”

“Well, I’m glad you are okay,” Willow grinned, “You had me worried sick. Anyhow, would you like to have my phone number?”

“Sure thing,” Hunter responded, “My number is the same as Luz, so we can call each other.”

“I’ll write my number down just so that you can remember,” Willow said as she got out a sticky note and a pen and wrote her number down to give to Hunter, “Maybe we can hang out sometime.”

“Oh yeah, I know this lake while I was hopping this line, It’s outside of Bonesborough near this siding. I think it’s called Lacuna or something similar to that.”

“Oh that must be Lake Lacuna,” Willow realized, “It’s a popular swimming hole around here. Me and Amity used to take swimming lessons there. Well, more like we were running around the woods and screwing around in the lake instead of participating in the lessons. And to this day, Amity still couldn’t swim.”

“I heard that,” Amity yelled.

“Remember last time we were there and Luz had to rescue you,” Willow teased to Amity as she began to blush, “Or maybe you really wanted Luz to save you ala Baywatch.”

Amity just scoffed in embarrassment

“Anyhow,” Willow said, “How about Friday?”

“Friday sounds good for me,” Hunter responded.

“Alright,” Willow smiled, “It’s a date.”

Luz was eyeing Hunter with a shit-eating grin.

“OOOOOOOOH, Sounds like Hunter’s got a date.”

“We’re just friends,” Hunter said, “It’s nothing to go gaga for.”

“Well Hunter, I may be the master of relationshipping fictional characters and all of my experience of reading fantasy novels with romantic plot points proves that I can be the matchmaker of couples in real life,” Luz explained, “And I know for certain that you and Willow are going to be a great couple.”

“Oh save your breath,” Hunter chuckled.

The group (or as they like to call themselves, The Hexsquad) spent the evening watching cheap campy horror films and Hunter was sitting next to Willow and Gus (much to the suggestion of Luz). One of the films that they watched was the 1977 classic “Hollow Mind”, a film about a teenage boy who lived with his uncle and one day, he and his friend snuck out and explored a forbidden cabin, only to realize the harsh truth of his uncle. Hunter felt intrigued about it as it was like he was looking at himself and given that his father played the role as the main protagonist, he felt very uneasy about it. He knew that he needed to get out of this situation.

“Uh, I’m going out for some fresh air,” Hunter said, “Be back in a few.”

“Sure thing,” Luz responded with a grin, “Watch out for the mosquitos.”

“Got it, no mosquitos,” Hunter said as he run out of the cabin in panic, running into the woods looking for anywhere to hide or run away. He soon found a familiar location, which is the same grade crossing Willow would freight hop from. He was contemplating on whether or not he should just hop onto the next southbound and run, that is until he heard a familiar voice.

“Hunter? Hunter? Hunter are you okay? Hunter, it’s me Willow.”

Hunter soon realized that Willow was calling out his name and began to tear up.

“Hunter,” Willow said in tears, “Thank god I found you. Are you okay? You had us worried there.”

Hunter couldn’t respond, he was still sobbing.

“Hey, can I show you something, it’s something that helps me calm down.”

Willow soon breathed in for four seconds and out for four. Hunter soon repeated Willow’s technique and soon was in a better mental state.

“Can I tell you something Captain,” Hunter asked.

“What is it?” Willow responded comfortably.

“Well, do you know why I have been freighthopping for this long?” Hunter asked.

“No, I believe you haven’t told me, you told me that you were from Oregon and that you have been doing that for two years?”

“Well,” Hunter responded, “Both of my parents were murdered when I was really young.  I was living with my Uncle since then and for eight years, he… he… he kept hurting me. He would stab me, strike me, starve me, and he almost tried to murder me. All in that time, he kept looking for something called Titan’s Blood. He claimed that it would make us rich and everytime I couldn’t find it… He would punish me. In fact, my father was in that movie we watched. He played the boy with his uncle and it felt like… I was looking at a reflection of myself. Like, he looks just like me. I- I don’t know what to feel. I never saw this movie before in my life and I felt like it’s a mockery of me. Why didn’t I stop him, what if he had a dark past and I was his next victim. I’m so sorry, I ruined this evening and now everyone will think I am pathetic for panicking over a stupid movie.”

Willow soon put her hand on Hunter’s shoulder, “Hunter, It’s alright, nobody thinks that you are pathetic. They’re actually very worried about you.”

“They are?” Hunter asked.

“You had us worried for a moment, but I’m glad you are okay.”

“I’m so sorry for this,” Hunter teared towards Willow’s shoulder like a child would to her mother, “I didn’t mean to.”

“It’s okay Hunter, I understand what are you going through.”

“You do?”

“My mother passed away when I was six years old. It had been difficult with just me and my dad for a long time until he met my papa. I miss her, but deep down, she’s always there in my heart and my Dad’s heart as well. I’m sure your parents are watching you from above and I believe that they are happy that you escaped from harm and you are here with all of us having a great time.”

Hunter soon teared up as he hugged Willow, “Thank you for finding me here.”

The two soon walked upwards towards the cabin to continue their sleepover for the night. After their horror movie marathon was complete, the group decided to hit the hay. Luz and Amity shared a sleeping bag together while Willow slept on her bed while Hunter and Gus has their own individual sleeping bags. However, Hunter slept next to Willow’s bed. As Hunter looked towards the snoring Willow, he realized that this was his first that was actually there, but he had felt something in his stomach, was it feelings for her? As someone who hadn’t fallen in love with someone, even while he was freighthopping across the country seeing all sorts of landscapes outside the boxcars, Hunter didn’t know how to react to these feelings. Maybe he should ask Luz or Eda about this.

Chapter Text

“So, Aunt Eda?” Hunter asked, “I have a question about something that I don’t know anything about?”

“Fire away Blondie,” Eda responded, “I know all sorts of stuff.”

“Well, there is this girl that I met on the train the day I moved in with you. She’s so soft, sweet, pretty, beautiful and she was there for me when I had that panic attack last night. She’s friends with Luz.”

“You mean the plant girl?”

“Yes, Willow. But I keep having these feelings whenever I think of her. Like, I don’t know what these feelings are?”

“Oh, that’s called love Hunter,” Eda chuckled, “You blondie, have a crush on this Willow chick.”

“Wait, who has a crush?” King said as he walked into the room.

“Blondie here has a crush on Luz’s friend Willow,” Eda said humorously towards King.

“oooh, Hunter is in Love!” King chuckled

“It’s not what it’s like,” Hunter defended

“Hunter and Willow, Sitting In A Tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G! First Come Love! Then Come Marriage-”

“Okay King, that’s enough,” Eda said towards King before she turned to Hunter, “It’s okay to have those feelings.”

“What if I had to confess and she said no,” Hunter asked.

“Well, there are plenty of fish in the sea,” Eda responded, “Just be yourself and you two will have your wedding in no time.”

Hunter soon blushed embarrassingly before he realized something, “So me and Willow are going to hang out at Lacuna on Friday.”

“You mean the swimming hole a couple miles from here?”

“Yes, but I need a swimsuit. Do you think Raine has one my size?”

“You know, you actually fit into their clothing,” Eda replied, “I’ll see what I can find.”

“Thank you Aunt Eda,” Hunter responded, “You’re a lifesaver,”

“You’re welcome kid,” Eda responded.

Friday came and Hunter was wearing a plain colored T-shirt and beige swim trunks. Sure, he looked like a dork (at least according to Luz), but it doesn’t matter. He was going to hang out with Willow at Lacuna Lake today and damn it will it be the best day ever. He even packed them a lunch (courtesy of Eda of course)

He departed the house in his car and drove towards Willow’s place feeling excited about himself.

Willow was also getting ready for her excursion to Lacuna with Hunter. She was wearing a floral-designed one piece underneath her sun-dress, her hair was freely flowing in the summer breeze as she waited outside. She soon noticed the familiar Mustang approaching the front of her house.

“I’m glad you made it,” Willow smiled as she hopped in the car, “I can provide you directions if needed.”

“Yeah, I don’t know exactly where this lake is exactly is,” Hunter responded, “Otherwise, we would be running in circles.”

Willow chuckled, “Alright, so at the end of the road, we’ll take a right…”

The pair eventually made it to Lacuna where Hunter parked next to the beach. The swimming hole was located next to the railroad tracks and was bordered around a cliff next to the tracks. On their side, there is a small beach and a small jumping off cliff next to the beach. It feels like an actual swimming hole, even with the barely noticeable tourist involvement.

“It’s so nice here,” Hunter smiled, “I never saw this view from here. It’s usually from outside of a boxcar or on top of a coal hopper.”

“I’m glad you like it,” Willow responded, “Me, Gus, Luz and Amity will always go here every summer, especially on a day like this.”

Soon Willow took off her sundress to reveal her swimsuit, but Hunter felt uncomfortable taking his shirt off.

“Is something wrong, Hunter?” Willow asked in concern.

“I don’t want to take my shirt off,” Hunter said in response, “It’s complicated.”

“Oh it’s okay,” Willow responded, “I feel you.”

“You do?”

Willow sighed, “Bullies would come and make fun of me for how I look. They would call me a pig, a half-a-bitch, Tree Fucker, Leaf Girl, ugh, every fucking name in the book. Why would she leave me alone?”

“She?” Hunter asked curiously, “Who is she?”

“Boscha Maya,” Willow responded, “The bane of my fucking existence for the last few years. She’s a total bitch to those who look at her funny and she’s one of the popular girls at school with a lot of boys wanting to get laid with a bitch like her. She can get away with murder and nobody will find out because SHE IS MISS MOTHERFUCKING CAPTAIN OF THE FUCKING SOFTBALL TEAM!”

Hunter soon held Willow’s shoulder, “Hey there captain, breathe in for me,”

Willow soon breathed in for four and breathes out for another four and soon she started to sob.

“I’m so sorry Hunter,” Willow sniffled, “I didn’t mean to dump my baggage on you.”

“It’s okay Willow,” Hunter responded, “If it makes you feel better, I can remove my shirt.”

“Are you sure?” Willow sniffled, “You don’t have to.”

“I don’t mind,” Hunter smiled as he took off his shirt revealing his scar filled body with a little bit of a six pack showing.

“Wow, you look amazing,” Willow chuckled, “I didn’t know you were packing,”

“And you look beautiful,” Hunter smiled, “Who cares what Boscha says. She can go fuck herself.”

“Thank you Hunter,” she smiled as she hugged him. The two later went up on the small jumping point. Hunter was a little nervous about how high he was from the water’s surface, but Willow in a effort to convince him to jump in, quickly ran and did a massive cannonball into the lake.

“Come on in Hunter, the water is great,” Willow laughed, “You do swim right?”

“Oh I swim pretty girl, uh I mean pretty good,” Hunter blushed, “Alright, and here I go.”

 Hunter soon jackknifed into the lake right next to Willow. As he surfaced, the two just laughed and swam around all afternoon before returning to the beach and relaxed on the beachside. Then they noticed a slow coal drag approaching the cliff side of the lake.

“You know,” Hunter suggested, “One of these days, We can just hop a train to somewhere exciting.”

“Like where?” Willow asked curiously

“Oh maybe Disney World in Florida, or New York City, or probably Virginia Beach, or even Alaska,” Hunter responded.

“They have trains in Alaska?” Willow giggled.

“Oh yes, I have been on it while hopping,” Hunter explained, “It’s a beautiful place there. It’s pretty cold though.”

“Okay, maybe something warmer and closer to home,” Willow said, “But I do want to go to Alaska one day.”

“Yeah, you have a fair point,” Hunter smiled as he looked around his surroundings.

Later in the evening, the two stopped by a diner for some dinner and Hunter dropped Willow off at her place.

“I had a lot of fun today,” Willow said in awe, “Thank you so much for today. I really enjoyed it.”

“No problem Captain,” Hunter smiled, “We should do more of this.”

“I agree, maybe we can have another beach day with Luz, Amity and Gus.”

“We should totally do it. I’ll convince Luz to do it with us when I get home. Anyway, It’s getting late right now. I will see you soon.”

“Alrighty then,” Willow smiled, “Drive safe. Talk to you soon.”

Hunter waved goodbye as he drove down the road heading back toward the Owl House. It was completely pitch black when he pulled up onto the driveway of the Owl House. Eda was waiting outside reading a novel and sipping wine from her wine glass.

“How was it Blondie,” Eda asked as he got out.

“It was pretty good,” Hunter responded, “We talked about life and laid about in the water like a bunch of otters.”

“Well that’s good to hear,” Eda reassured, “Anyhow, Luz is at Amity’s house for a sleepover and King is asleep, and Raine is about to go to bed soon. So please try not to make a ruckus.”

“Alright,” Hunter replied, “Well I have a long day, so I’ll go hit the hay.”

“Good night kid,” Eda smiled, “See you in the morning.”

“Good night Aunt Eda,” Hunter responded as he got inside the house.

He later got into his room and flopped down into bed staring at the ceiling thinking about Willow. His feelings for her had gotten stronger, but he is afraid that he was going to screw things up and she would reject him and never be his friend again, but however, there is an opportunity for him to show that he is a good friend. Luz mentioned to him a couple of days ago that Willow was going to turn fifteen in a week and the gang wanted to surprise her, but couldn’t think about what to do to celebrate. Now that he thought about it, he had an idea on how to celebrate this special occasion.

Chapter Text

Willow soon made it to the all too familiar crossing to wait for a northbound train so that she can head to town so that she can hang out with Gus. She looked at her notebook containing the supposed schedule about what time each train would normally come and noticed that a northbound was supposed to come by this time, but it was a little bit late. No big deal, she thought, her father told her that freight trains don’t always keep to schedule. Later, she was able to hear the rumbling of a quartets of dirty, grimy, and faded locomotives coming towards her view, it was her ticket to town. This time, it was a coal train with empty coal cars coming from the power plant somewhere in South Carolina and heading towards the local mines. She didn’t mind it and she made it onto the fourth motor and rode in front of the nose of the locomotive all the way to the town of Bonesborough.

Bonesborough was a small town, but when compared to the villages, hamlets, and the other towns that dot along the railroad, it’s basically the New York City of the valley thanks to it being a junction of two rail lines that once were two different railroads until it was merged into the large railroad it is today. Latissa was north of the town where a medium sized rail yard was located, but the town was basically a hamlet with a few people, mostly the railroad workers that worked there.

Willow was able to jump off the train at the old freight depot and walked towards the main street and its row of shops with apartments on the second and/or third levels of the shops, restaurants, and small row houses. She walked around the town square and the marketplace for a bit to see what they got, but then she noticed someone that she dared not to see. It was Boscha, and her friend Skara, the popular girls of Hexside High and star players of the Banshees softball team. Willow tried to veer away from Boscha’s clique, but Boscha soon began to start hell.

“Oh no, a pig must have escaped from her pen and is running amok town,” Boscha smirked, “Oh wait, that’s not a pig. That’s just half-a-bitch Willow.”

“Boscha, can you go one day without being a bitch to everyone,” Willow asked.

“Pah,” Boscha snarked, “Why would we leave you alone? You’re a weakling, a nobody, you’re Half-a-Bitch Willow and you will always be even when we’re going old. You know, Amity used to be like us, but ever since you two became friends again, she became soft and became a lesbian slut with that Noceda loser.”

“Maybe, she is a lot smarter than you,” Willow responded, “Maybe, she knows that you’re not a good friend at all and rightfully ditched you.”

“Not a good friend,” Boscha laughed, “She should know better, but that’s okay. That’s one more target for me. In fact, I think it’s time for me to water the plants.”

Boscha then grabbed Willow and shoved her into the small pond. She then pushed Willow’s head into the water trying to drown her.

“What’s the matter bitch? I thought all plants need water to grow. I’m just making sure that you don’t become a half-a-bitch and grow to become a whole bitch.”

Boscha soon noticed someone coming toward her, it was Hunter.

“Hey you, leave Willow alone.”

“Oh look, it’s Half-a-Bitch’s boyfriend,” Boscha responded as she gave Willow to breathe, she maybe a cruel bitch, but she doesn’t want to go to jail for murder, “Come to save your damsel in distress?”

“You need to leave her alone right now,” Hunter said angrily, “Or else.”

“Or else what? You aren’t going to hit a woman.”

Hunter soon lunged towards Boscha as she took Willow out of the water so that her hands can be free to defend herself against the blonde kid.

Hunter soon grabbed Willow out of the pond and the two quickly ran towards Hunter’s car away from Boscha and her gang.

“Are you okay? I saw what happened while I was walking in the park.”

“I’m fine, a little wet, but alright.”

“I see that’s Boscha, right?”

“Yep.”

The two got into Hunter’s car as Boscha tried to attack Hunter before Hunter sped away.

“You’re gonna pay. Both of you,” Boscha raged.

Meanwhile, Hunter and Willow made it towards Gus’s house.

“Yo, Willow,” Gus said happily as Hunter and Willow came in the front porch of his house, “Hunter, haven’t seen you since the sleepover last week. I heard you took Willow out to Lacuna.”

“Sorry we’re late,” Willow said, “I had a run in with that bitch again.”

“Boscha?” Gus replied, “Please don’t tell me that she’s on to you again.”

“Oh yes,” Willow scowled, “She almost killed me by nearly drowning me in the pond. If Hunter didn’t show up, I would be dead.”

“Oh she has crossed the line this time,” Gus fumed, “I’m sorry that I couldn’t come and defend you. But thank god Hunter was able to save you.”

“No problem,” Hunter smiled, “She’s my friend and friends stick with each other.”

“Now, where did you get those moves,” Willow asked.

“Oh freight hopping in Los Angeles can be brutal,” Hunter replied, “I had to defend myself there multiple of times.”

“Is there anywhere you haven’t freight hopped,” Gus asked curiously.

“Well, there is Hawaii,” Hunter chuckled, “But you can’t get there by train yet.”

“Well aside from here,” Gus asked, “What is the most beautiful place that you rode through?”

“There is this line that goes through Glacier National Park and the view from there is amazing,” Hunter smiled, “Willow would totally love this.”

Hunter told Gus and Willow stories about his travels, the times he almost got caught, all the sights he saw, and some tips he learned while freight hopping. The three later started to play video games thanks to Gus’s Super Nintendo and his totally legal and not copied floppies consisting of the newest games. The three were playing some popular fighting game, well mostly Gus and Willow while Hunter watched as he admitted that he hadn’t used a controller before. However, he decided to join a round with Willow as player 2.

Gus was giving Hunter some pointers on how to beat Willow’s character in the game as Hunter hap-hazardly tried to perform the moves that Willow were doing. She of course won, and Hunter admitted that she was a badass at Mortal Kombat anyway.

“Okay, I’ll take over from here,” Gus pointed towards Hunter, “You did well out there even for a first timer, plus I will admit Willow is a master at these games.”

The gaming session continued for a little bit until the three decided to head to The Owl House to hang out with Luz. The three got into Hunter’s car and drove off towards the Owl House. Hunter and Willow was in the front while Gus rode in the back as there was no space in the front for three people. Once they made it to the place, they met up with Luz and Amity as she just got back from having a date with Luz. The five soon had a nice lunch there and everyone was excited.  Willow’s birthday was going to be next Friday, but unfortunately, Luz will have to leave for home on Thursday as apparently the peasants of Connecticut didn’t have anything as epic as Kings Dominion to make all the schools there open after Labor Day, so they decided to celebrate this week so that Luz will be here to celebrate. They were going to take Willow on a day trip to the world famous Dollywood. They were going to have a sleepover at the Owl House tonight and head out to Pigeon Forge the next morning for all day excitement at the theme park and head back the following morning. Eda was going to take them there (while dressing up as Dolly Parton to scam people at the park) along with King and Raine. That night, the gang decided to not do any horror movies, so they decided to play a familiar game known as Truth or Dare. Hunter, being the newbie here was the first to pick.

“Ok Hunter, Truth or Dare?” Luz asked.

“Truth,” Hunter responded.

“Hmm, have you read a Playboy before,” Luz asked

“What? What are you talking about?” Hunter said in shock.

“Those magazines with the ladies in it,” Willow chuckled before Gus stared toward at her in shock, “What, me and Amity would sneak into the adults only section at the library when we were kids.”

“Okay, fine,” Hunter blushed, “I have read one issue while I was freight hopping. It was a high priority train filled with express boxcars and one of the crates contained a box of them.”

“Did you like the ladies in them,” Amity smirked.

“I only read the articles,” Hunter ‘defended’, “Anyhow, Luz, Truth or Dare?”

“Truth!” Luz answered.

“Okay, how many times you and Amity did it?” Hunter asked.

“You little pervert,” Luz responded.

“Hey, you were the one who asked if I had read a Playboy, now answer my question.”

“Fine,” Luz groaned, “Since we became a couple, we only did the deed a few times.”

“Now this is getting spicy,” Gus chuckled.

“Where did you two do your business at?” Willow asked curiously.

Luz and Amity blushed embarrassedly before Amity started fessing up, “We did it three times, twice in this room and another time in the living room.”

“Willow, you are going to pay. Truth or Dare?”

“Truth,” Willow said.

“Three truths in a row,” Amity said, “Next time, I’m saying Dare.”

“Willow, do you used to have a crush on Gus?” Luz asked.

At last Willow and Gus went pale while Amity and Hunter ooohed.

“Well, I used to,” Willow responded, “But we decided to be just friends after I confessed a year ago.”

“Err, Well Amity,” Willow responded, “Truth or Dare?”

“Dare,” Amity said.

“Finally,” Gus said, “A dare.”

“Okay Mittens,” Willow smiled, “I dare you to kiss Luz…. On the lips.”

Amity instantly began to kiss Luz passionately on the lips. The make out session lasted a minute before the two break for air.

“New record,” Willow chuckled.

“Oh that’s it,” Amity said, “Truth or Dare Willow?”

“Dare,” Willow smirked.

“Oh, okay…” Amity smiled, “I want you to blurt out the name of your crush.”

Willow became red in the face, especially with said crush in the same room as her.

“Ah, ah, Eh, uh, eh, heh,” Willow said nervously, “It’s um, um, um.”

“Who is it?” Luz asked.

“It’s….. it’s…. it’s HUNTER!”

Everyone was silent and was shocked by this revelation, even Hunter, who was surprised by this fact.

“I am so sorry Willow,” Amity said, “I didn’t know this is serious.”

“It’s fine,” Willow teared up, “It’s okay. I’m fine. I’m just going to use the bathroom.”

Willow quickly ran out of the room and ran into the restroom.

“Okay, let’s just end the game now;” Hunter said in concern, “I’ll go check on her.”

 Willow was in the restroom in tears for the next few minutes. She was nervous that everyone knew about her crush and it didn’t help that her crush Hunter was there as well when she revealed the name of her crush.

At last Hunter knocked, “Hey Captain, can I come in? It’s me Hunter.”

“Sure,” Willow responded, “Come in.”

Hunter came in, “Hey, uh are you okay?”

“I’m fine,” Willow sniffled, “Just… overwhelmed.”

“Is it something about your crush on me?” Hunter asked, “I saw what happened.”

“Well, here’s the truth,” Willow confessed, “Ever since I met you on that train, you have been an amazing friend to me. You were kind, understanding, and you have saved me earlier today and you look amazing. And I was afraid that if I say it right now instead of later you will…”

“Be scared, get creeped out?” Hunter said, “No, I won’t be upset.”

“You won’t?” Willow asked.

Hunter sighed, “I have something to say. I have a crush on you.”

“You have a crush on me?” Willow lightened up.

“Well, you are the first friend that I had ever, in a new town, in a new life, and in general. You were the one that found me when I had that panic attack; you were the one that bought me confidence on myself. Willow, you are the sweetest person I have ever known right now and I want to say thank you. Thank you for being there for me and thank you for finding me.”

Willow soon hugged him, “You’re welcome.”

“Anyhow, let’s get back to Luz’s bedroom. They’re worried for you,” Hunter smiled.

The two soon came back to the party and the gang decided to head in for the night as they had an early rise in the morning. Hunter slept in a sleeping bag next to Willow watching her fall asleep, then he had something to whisper to her.

‘hey captain,’

‘yes hunter’

‘i have a question for you.’

‘go on,’

‘do you want to go out with me some day? just you and me.’

‘yes. i would love to go out with you. wanna sleep in my bag with me.’

‘sure thing, it’s getting cold and i need some warmth.’

Hunter soon got into the same sleeping bag as Willow and cuddled up with her like a soft pillow.

‘goodnight captain.’

‘you too as well hunter.’

Chapter Text

“Rise and Shine Kids,” Eda announced, “I hope you all are ready for Dollywood!”

Everyone groaned as they woke up after a long sleep and got ready to head off for the theme park. The trip was around three hours long and the gang were crammed in Eda’s station wagon. Eda and Raine were in the front with Eda driving, Luz, Amity and King in the middle section, and Hunter, Gus and Willow crammed in the rear seat.

“Don’t worry guys,” Gus told Willow and Hunter, “It won’t be that long, unless we hit Pigeon Forge traffic.”

The two were too busy cuddling each other to notice or care, not even Eda’s mixtape bothered them. Finally, the gang arrived at the popular theme park. Hijinks occurred there as Eda was posing as Dolly Parton telling guests to give her money, Hunter getting freaked out after riding on a coaster and then being confident on another when with Willow, King trying to play chicken with the park train before Luz and Amity kept him on a leash, Luz winning Amity an plush cat, Amity winning Luz an otter, and Eda getting caught for her scams resulting in everyone getting kicked out that afternoon, so they decided to check in at the local hotel and go out for dinner at a steakhouse. Hunter decided to go for the chicken tenders while Willow decided to go for the Big One challenge, where she has to chow down an entire twenty-two ounce steak in five minutes and if she finished by that time, she will win a “I survived the Big One” t-shirt.

The challenge began and Willow begin to chow down on the steak as the timer goes down. Hunter was cheering her on as she made through half of the steak with almost two minutes left on the timer. Unfortunately, she was almost complete when the timer gone out resulting in an eighth of the steak left.

“Oh well,” said the waiter, “It’s a new personal best. I am impressed that you were able to chow that much down for a girl like you. Such a shame, you would have been the second woman to beat this challenge.”

“Well, I am a pretty tough little lady,” Willow chuckled, “But who was the first?”

“Actually,” The waiter said as he looked toward Eda, “The first woman that ever won that challenge is this one over here in 1978.”

“It has been an honor,” Eda chuckled, “But good work kid.”

“That was amazing Willow,” Hunter cheered.

“Way to go Willow,” Amity smiled.

“Congrats Willow,” Luz cheered.

“Yeah, let’s go Willow,” King also cheered just realizing what was going on.

“Alright,” Eda announced, “I want to wish Willow here a very happy fifteenth birthday and many more years to come.”

Everyone gave Willow her presents, but Hunter decided to give her something that he was saving from winning a game at the theme park. It wasn’t as extravagant as the others, but it seemed cute to give to Willow. It was a chubby looking bumble bee and when he gave her the bee, she was excited and gave him a hug.

The gang all returned to the hotel and after looking around, Luz and Amity wanted some alone time, so Hunter, Willow and Gus decided to go to the pool and relax there. The three got into their swimwear and headed down toward the outdoor pool area.

Once they got there, the three got into the water as Willow began to float about. Hunter and Gus were at the side chatting.

“You got lucky with Willow,” Gus smirked, “She’s a great person to be with.”

“Didn’t she have a crush on you?” Hunter asked.

“Well, it’s a long story,” Gus responded in a blush, “but do you want to know how we met?”

“Well, I do like a good backstory,” Hunter chuckled, “Hit me with your best shot.”

“Alright here we go…”

Chapter Text

~~~~~~~~~~~~ one year ago ~~~~~~~~~~~

An eleven year old Gus Porter had recently moved to the sleepy town of Bonesborough after his father was given an offer to become chief editor of The Titan Daily. Gus was a loner back in his old town due to his advanced placement being in the same classes as the kids two years older than them. He tried to make friends with these peers, but they would take advantage of him due to his naivety and age. He was now getting out of his father’s car in front of the school that he’s now going to.

“I understand that you didn’t get along well with the kids back in Kentucky, but guess what? You are in a new school, a new town, and many opportunities for new friends,” His father, Percival Porter (or just Perry) said toward Augustus, “Have a great day and I will see you after work.”

“You too, Dad,” Gus smiled meekly and walked inside the school.

It was pretty eventful as the older kids would pick at him for being two years younger than them and they still took advantage of his age. Later that day, he was in class as some kids started to tease him about him being a black eleven year old in the eighth grade. The constant bullying made him snap toward him.

“Aww, did the little baby get lost?”

“Hey poindexter, why are you in this class?”

“You don’t belong in this class,”

“This town is going to shit thanks to him,”

“Shouldn’t you be in a cot-”

“ENOUGH!!” Gus snapped and ran out of the classroom in tears. He later ran into a closet to hide from his troubles. Once there he began to sob.

“It’s just like back home, but worse. I should have taken regular classes instead,” he said, “Heck, I just wish I didn’t have to deal with this shit.”

“You okay?” she asked.

He freaked out a little bit.

“Oh, sorry I thought I was the only one here, but then I heard you come in, mind if I come close.”

“Go away,” Gus shouted, “All of you please.”

The girl soon put her hand on his shoulder. Gus reacted tensely.

“Hey, sometimes, I get wrapped in my own thoughts too, but my dads taught me a little trick to make the thoughts go away.”

The young girl breathed in for four and out for four, “You try.”

Gus soon followed her breathing exercises and felt composed.

“Thank you, um, what’s your name?”

“I’m Willow,” the girl said.

“Augustus,” Gus responded.

“You must be new here,” Willow asked, “Where are you from?”

“Louisville, Kentucky,” Gus replied.

“Ah, you must be a city kid,” Willow said.

“Yeah, I never had friends there,” Gus responded, “They picked on me because of my advanced intelligence and they take advantage of me every time.”

“Yikes,” Willow said nervously, “I have the same issues here. I never had any friends here and the popular girls here always pick at me for how I look.”

“What are they talking about,” Gus said, “You look beautiful.”

“Why thank you Gus,” Willow smiled, “Hey, want to be my friend?”

“Sure,” Gus smiled, “Want to come over this Friday for a sleepover?”

“That sounds lovely,” Willow smiled.

~~~~~~~ Present Day ~~~~~~

“So, last summer, Willow wanted to take me to the dance,” Gus asked, “And I was shocked. She was my only friend and I never thought of having a romantic partner before. So, we agreed on just being friends and go to the dance as friends.”

“So who do you have a crush on?” Hunter asked curiously.

“Eh, I didn’t want to worry about a romantic partner, especially earlier this summer when this girl from Glandus High called Bria wanted to make me be a DJ for their house party.”

“Then what happened,” Hunter asked.

Gus responded, “She just wanted to take my virginity. That was it; she only cared about me so that she can knock me up. After that encounter, I decided to not go forward with having anything more than a platonic relationship.”

“That’s understandable,” Hunter chuckled, “I guess you got your right hand.”

Gus just blushed embarrassingly.

“Now now you two, they may be a family coming in soon,” Willow chuckled.

“Anyhow, I am going to head back to my room. I’ll leave you two alone,” Gus said, “Take care you two.”

“You too as well Gus,” Willow said, “Make sure you knock so that Luz and Amity won’t get interrupted.”

Hunter and Willow were now alone together.

“I think we’re alone now,” Hunter said.

“I know,” Willow chuckled before lunging toward Hunter for a kiss resulting in the two going under. The two had their lips together before getting up for air.

“Oh I am so sorry for that,” Willow laughed.

Hunter then splashed her as he laughed, “I wasn’t ready for that Captain.”

Hunter soon kissed Willow on the cheek again, “That’s for almost drowning me.”

The two soon later relocated to the nearby hot tub to soak into until a large family invaded their privacy making the two return to their room.

Luz and Amity were sleeping in their bed together while Gus was sleeping in the couch, so Willow and Hunter decided to share a bed together. Hunter soon took a shower while Willow took hers after him. That evening, the two cuddled in bed before Hunter was out cold. Willow looked at how cute he slept before she fell asleep in his chest.

The next morning, the gang checked out of the hotel and soon they were on the road home. However, Hunter, Willow and Gus took over the middle section of the station wagon leaving Luz, Amity and King cramped up in the back. Once they made it back to the Owl House, Luz and Amity spent the night there while Hunter, Willow and Gus decided to head back to Willow’s house to have a sleepover there. Hunter drove of course so it was quicker and more safer than hopping a southbound train. ‘hopping a southbound train’ he thought, maybe he can give Willow a freight hopping experience only he experienced for many years for her birthday.  Soon, the three pulled into Willow’s driveway and her fathers were at the front.

“Hello there guys, how was the trip?” Gilbert asked.

“It was great,” Willow said, “Dollywood was very impressive and I almost won a eating challenge at this steakhouse.”

“That’s amazing,” Harvey said, “Almost like your father over here,”

“Hey,” Gilbert stared toward his partner.

“Oh, um Willow, can we talk?” Harvey asked.

“Sure,” Willow smiled, “I’ll be back boys.”

Once Willow and her fathers were in the kitchen, Gilbert broke the silence.

“I’m sorry Willow, I knew I wanted to take the day off to celebrate your birthday this Friday, but I got a call saying that they needed me to take a northbound out of Latissa toward Cincy. Harvey had to head to an emergency conference in Richmond this weekend. So you’re going to be on your own this weekend. We’re sorry, but we promise that we will make this up next week. We’ll leave you some money this weekend for pizza or to rent a movie.”

“It’s okay,” Willow said meekly, “I understand. I’ll probably hang out with Gus and Hunter that weekend.”

“That’s good,” Harvey said, “Just don’t get in trouble.”

“I won’t,” Willow smiled as she got out of the kitchen and into the living room.

“So, what was it about,” Gus asked.

“Oh, my dads had to be out of town this weekend,” Willow responded, “So I may celebrate with you guys.”

“That’s a bummer that they won’t be home to celebrate,” Gus said, “But at least we had a great time yesterday.”

“That is true,” Willow said, “But like I mentioned, We can just hang out at Lacuna that weekend or what not, but we can talk about plans later. Right now, let’s enjoy the evening.”

“Good plan indeed,” Hunter responded.

The three did enjoy their evening together talking about their weekend plans, but Hunter decided to ask Willow something.

“Remember last weekend when I suggested that you and me would just hop on a train to somewhere extravagant?”

“Yeah,” Willow responded.

“How about we just do that this weekend, just go where the rails go and spend the day at that destination and head back on a return?” Hunter asked.

“I don’t know, what if we get in trouble, or what if we get lost?” Willow asked

“Well, I’ll take care of you,” Hunter said, “Nobody will hurt you and they will have to go through my dead body before they lay one finger on you. I promise.”

“Okay,” Willow hesitated, “I trust you.”

“Don’t worry,” Hunter smiled, “We’ll make it home before your dads find out.”

Chapter Text

That day, Willow walked down toward the tracks as he saw Hunter waiting.

“um, Hunter, how did you get here?” Willow asked nervously, “Did you drive?”

“Nah, I just simply rode a southbound coal drag down here from the Owl House and got off here,” Hunter said, “Are you ready for a fantastic journey into the unknown?”

“I guess I am,” Willow said feeling a bit nervous.

Soon, the daily southbound manifest train came by and the two got in one of the boxcars.

“So, Hunter. Where does this train actually goes?” Willow asked curiously.

“Well, this one stops at Hamlet, North Carolina. So we can get off there and fetch another train to the beach at Wilmington,” Hunter explained, “It’s a pretty nice town.”

“That’s still in North Carolina right?” Willow asked.

“Yes,” Hunter smiled.

The train soon stopped at Hamlet and the two soon got a local down to Wilmington on the coast of North Carolina. The city isn’t as infamous as Miami or New York City, but it was larger than Bonesborough even in its heyday. The two got off at the port and took a bus downtown. All afternoon, the two toured all the sights throughout the riverfront, including the battleship which impressed Willow as she never been to the ocean in all her life. They even took a bus down to the beach at Carolina Beach and had a pleasant walk down the beach. Willow soon looked at the sunset through the horizon admiring the glow.

“I always wonder what it is like beyond the horizon,” Willow smiled, “I never get to experience this before in my life.”

“I’m glad I was able to give you this experience,” Hunter smiled as he wrapped his arm around Willow’s shoulder, “I used to go to the beach with my parents before they passed away in Oregon.”

“What part of Oregon are you from?” Willow asked.

“I was born in this town called The Boiling Isle,” Hunter said, “It was more of a peninsula than an island, but the town was beautiful. My mother was born there so she and dad would live there when they weren’t too busy starring in movies or touring across the country. I would love to go back there someday. I have never been there in twelve years.”

 “Where did you live while under…” Willow asked before shuddering, “…him?”

“He moved me to Hollywood,” Hunter frowned, “He wanted me to be a child star so that he can take my money and live life like my dad was. He would strike me when I didn’t get the part or not do a good job on it. Then later on, he got into something illegal and got into this thing about something called Titan’s Blood and how it would make us rich or something along the line like that.”

“That’s horrible,” Willow said in a sullen tone, “Your uncle is a piece of shit.”

Hunter laughed, “Yeah Fuck him, and he can go die in a hole for all I care.”

“Die in a hole,” Willow lighten up, “That’s actually harmful to the environment. Flowers don’t like someone that is a piece of trash in their soil.”

“You’re right,” Hunter laughed “Hmm, How about we feed him to the sharks there?”

“Hey,” Willow smiled, “That won’t be a bad idea just like in that movie.”

The two laughed before they continued to walk the beach again. A couple of hours later, the two noticed the sun going down.

“Hey, let’s head for a hotel downtown,” Willow said, “We can hop on a return train in the morning.”

“That’s a good idea,” Hunter said, “I don’t want to fall asleep on the train and end up in Texas.”

“Now we would be in trouble,” Willow chuckled, “Let’s head back to town and check in.”

The two soon got on a westbound bus toward the riverwalk and check into the cheapest hotel on the waterfront. They soon checked into the room and looked around the room. It wasn’t the best room, but it didn’t look like a Serial Killer was there. There was one bed in the room, but they don’t mind.

“It wasn’t as nice as the one in Dollywood,” Willow said, “But eh, I can dig it.”

At last she yawned, “It’s getting late. I’m going to bed.”

“So am I,” Hunter said, “We got to get back home tomorrow so we would have to be on the first train back. I’m going to take a shower, I’ll be back.”

Willow soon got into bed as Hunter showered. Hunter soon got out wearing nothing but boxers and a tank top and got into bed.

“Happy Birthday Willow,” Hunter said reassuringly, “I hope you enjoyed this time.”

“Thank you Hunter,” Willow smiled, “Thank you so much for my day. I loved the beach there. We should do that again.”

“Yes we will,” Hunter smiled, “But I’ll drive you there next time.”

“Yeah, I’ll stick to the local rides next time,” Willow chuckled.

Hunter then kissed Willow goodnight and the two fell asleep within the hour.

The next morning, Willow and Hunter checked out of their room and head off towards the tracks to wait for the westbound back to Hamlet. They soon later got into the westbound back to their home territory. They almost got in trouble with the bears, but they made it back to the crossing that leads up to Willow’s house.

“I had a great time,” Willow said, “Thank you so making my Birthday amazing.”

“You’re welcome captain,” Hunter blushed, “I had a blast myself.”

Willow soon kissed Hunter on the lips before he headed back home.

Hunter soon got another northbound back to the Owl House and headed back inside said house.

Eda, Raine and King were eating dinner when he came in.

“Oh hey Hunter,” Raine said, “Welcome back. Where did you go.”

“Oh, I took Willow to the beach,” Hunter responded, “And we spent the night at a hotel,”

“How did you get there,” Eda asked, “And where did you two go?”

“Well, we freight hopped down to Wilmington and stayed the night there,” Hunter replied.

“Wait a minute,” Eda asked, “Since when did Willow freighthop?”

“She did it for a couple of years,” Hunter replied.

“I see,” Eda said (secretly she was impressed), “Just don’t get into trouble again. Especially with her.”

“Did you two kiss,” King asked as Hunter blushed.

“I, I, I,”

“It’s okay Hunter,” Eda smiled, “Raine and I would make out profusely when we were your age.”

“Edalyn,” Raine said in their serious tone, “There’s a child here.”

“Okay, Okay, Fine,” Eda said, “But yeah. Pretty soon, we’re going to have to enroll you into school this September. Had your Uncle enrolled you in school before?”

“No, he didn’t want me to learn the truth about things,” Hunter frowned.

“Well, we’re going to have to ask Bump to accommodate you,” Eda said, “You need to get an education so that you can be successful in this world.”

“When will I start?” Hunter asked.

“Not for a few weeks,” Eda smiled, “We open after labor day. For now, enjoy your summer.”

“Thanks Aunt Eda,” Hunter said as he hugged her.

Soon, Eda was in the living room drinking a glass of wine and watching TV. Usually, there was nothing good on TV that she found interesting. That is… until she heard someone familiar singing through an public access channel.

“And if you’ll be my steady

I hope we never ‘part

'Cause you’re the only one

I want to be my

Wholesome magic sweetheart”

“Oh Ev, if only you’re still here with us.” Eda teared up.

Chapter Text

“You said that this kid had never had any schooling prior to your custody, right?”

“You see, his uncle doesn’t believe in the education system prior to him running away. I think it has to do with his abuse and the fear of him reporting it to the cops,” Eda stated to Principal Bump.

“Well, his results from what we noticed does show that he is around two grades behind on most subjects,” Bump looked through his paperwork, “But given his situation, I am impressed that he isn’t that far behind despite not having any education with his Uncle.”

“Heh, he must have read some books while on a train somewhere,” Eda chuckled, “I just want to enroll him into school before labor day comes in.”

“Well you made an perfect choice here at Westside High,” Bump told Eda, “We aren’t just Bonesborough’s only high school, but the best one there is in the region. Your son will be successful here at this school. Like I said, he’s going to be in the tenth grade this year, so he may be graduating later than other people his age.”

“I understand sir,” Eda smiled, “Thanks for accepting him in this school.”

“No problem ma’am,” Bump said as he put down his glasses, “You and Hunter have a wonderful summer.”

“Have a wonderful summer to you too,” Eda smiled as she headed out of the office.

Hunter was waiting outside the office in the waiting room.

“Bump says that you’re in,” Eda said, “You’ll have to be in the tenth grade this year though, but I’m sure your friends are in that grade too, so you wouldn’t have to worry about it.”

“That’s fine,” Hunter replied, “Uncle didn’t really gave me a proper education anyway.”

“I will say, I am impressed by the knowledge shown on these tests they gave you,” Eda smirked, “You must have read while you were on the rails or something.”

“Yeah, I would take anything from the cargo inside the railcars and use them for my survival or entertainment,” Hunter explained, “The rails weren’t something no one my age should experience.”

“You can say that again kid,” Eda frowned, “You can say that again.”

“What’s that Eda?” Hunter asked.

“Can I tell you something?” Eda said.

“Yeah, what is it?” Hunter replied.

Eda sighed, “I used to freight hop when I was young…”

~~~~ 1970 ~~~~

Eda and Raine’s relationship flourished during the 1960s. Being High School sweethearts and dedicated hippies, the two enjoyed nearly every hippie fest around New England, even the world famous Woodstock festival. Sure, Raine was in college most of the time, but Eda would sell crafts at farmers markets around the area, so she had an steady income. However, Raine has some news that they were gonna tell Eda about.

The two were up a hillside in Gravesfield where Eda was carving a lighting bolt onto her guitar.

“Raine, I know why you’re really here,” Eda chuckled as she continued her carving.

“I had no idea what you’re talking about,” Raine replied as they sat down on the hill thinking of how to break the news.

 “Uh huh,”

“Who cares about some stupid exam,” Raine ranted, “This is more fun.”

“Whatever you say,”

“See, you’ll be a mess without me.”

Raine then blushed for a moment before Eda picked up the guitar.

“Alright, Raine’s Rhapsody.” Eda said as she began to play.

“You know, you can’t run from your fears forever. Which is why you’ve got to get the jump on them. Give them a whack right in the face.”

Raine could only agree, but even with her advice, they had to tell her something, but Eda also has something to show too.

“Raine, I got something for you.”

“Eda, I-“ Raine stopped as Eda held out a ring, “Woah, what are you doing?”

“Uh, Raine,” Eda stammered as she hid the ring box behind her, “Nothing, I’m fine.”

Raine could notice that she’s hiding something, “You’re lying again. It’s like I don’t really know you.”

“What do you mean Rainestorm,” Eda said nervously, “What are you telling me.”

“I made a decision,” Raine stated.

“Okay, okay, okay,” Eda said as she pointed up at the sky, “It has to be some trap going on, You heard me man.”

“I have been drafted and will be enlisting in the coast guard,” Raine announced towards Eda, “and I think we should see other people.”

They soon paused for a moment, “I’m sorry Eda. It’s over.”

Eda was uncharacteristically quiet, “Enlisting? Seeing other people? What is going on? What happened to sticking it to the man, and peace and love, and…”

“This isn’t the sixties anymore Eda,” Raine said, “I need to move on from the past. Yes, I think this draft is stupid, but I had no choice but to join. I know you have your craft thing going on, but what happens when this isn’t finically viable, where will you go?”

“I’ll just…” Eda raised her voice before beginning to tear up, “Just go, GO!”

Raine sighed, “I can’t do this anymore, Goodbye Eda.”

Raine then headed down the hill never to see Eda for the next thirty years.

The next few days were depressing for Eda. Ever since she and Raine broke up, she began to start drinking to numb her pain. After months of drinking and an argument with her parents, she decided to run away from Gravesfield and hopped on an southbound freight train to wherever it goes. For the next fourteen years, Eda had been hopping on and off freight trains across the country, getting part time jobs to earn money for necessities until she was forced to relocate. There were even times where she would sell herself for others to use, especially during the later half of her journeys. Then, one day, while on a northbound freight train through Appalachia, she got off of the train groaning in pain. It wasn’t until an newly hired engineer of the Seaboard System in Latissa, Virginia found her laying in a railyard and immediately called for an ambulance.

Chapter Text

~~~~1984~~~~

Eda was in the hospital room awaiting what the doctor reported bored out of her mind. There she is, all alone in an area she hasn’t been too, in a different part of the country, far from the quaint realities that is her home in Gravesfield. She then turned on the TV using the hospital remote.

“It has been three years since Hollywood has suffered great loss as Evelyn Clawthorne and her husband Caleb Wittebane were murdered at their home in northern Oregon. On October 15^th 1981, the signer-songwriter and actor were murdered in the small town of Boiling Isle, Oregon. It is unknown the whereabouts of the killer and their currently seven year old son Hunter Wittebane, anyone who has information should contact the FBI at-”

Eda immediately turned off the television, there is no way that her sister was dead. Last time she talked to Evelyn, it was just a few years ago catching up. Hell, she hadn’t talk to Lilith ever since she left Gravesfield.

Soon, a doctor came in to gave her some important information. Turns out, she was nine weeks pregnant with King whose father is unknown. Not only that, but her closest sister is now killed and her nephew was missing. Now that she was stuck in the middle of nowhere with a kid on the way, she decided to sober up and start settling down in Bonesborough. She then got a job at one of the antique shop off the main highway near town and slept in the shop during the off season. She even saved up money for her Mustang and used it to travel to different farmer’s markets in the area to sell more of her newly rediscovered crafts.

Months later, King was born and the new hire and the yard master sold her an abandoned cottage along the main line that they were going to demolish anyway for really cheap. They even remodeled and furnished the cottage on their dime. To this day, Eda would still give them lunch whenever she’s home. Months later, she finally resumed contact with Lilith and Lilith finally got to visit her new niece a few months after with their relationship being rekindled after years of isolation.

 By 1987, Eda was working in the shop when a certain someone showed up.

“Excuse me ma’am, but my car just broke down here and I need to use the pho-“

“Raine Whispers?” Eda said, “Is that you?”

“Eda, what are you doing here?” Raine replied, “I didn’t know you were here.”

“What are you doing here?” Eda asked.

“My car broke down here and I was asking if I could use the phone to call a tow truck, and a mechanic,” Raine asked.

“Oh sure, It’s in the office in the back,” Eda replied, “Oh, I know a good mechanic around here. Let me get it for you.”

~~~~ Present Day ~~~~

“A few months later, they got laid off from their law firm and they decided to move in with me and King. We even started dating again and a year later, we got married,” Eda finished as the two pulled up into the driveway of the Owl House.

“And that’s how I moved here,” Eda smiled.

“Thanks, Aunt Eda,” Hunter said now reminiscing Eda’s story when compared to his.

“You’re welcome Hunter,” Eda replied, “I know that you had to escape from your uncle through this method, but I’m glad that you’re okay and safe with me.”

The two then entered into the house being greeted by Raine and Eda.

“I guess Hunter got enrolled?” Raine said towards the grey haired woman.

“He did, he’ll be entering in the tenth grade though, but I guess he’ll be closer to his friends,” Eda responded as she put down her purse, “Maybe It’ll give him some element of normalcy after almost a decade with… him.”

“I can’t imagine the pain he had to go through while he was with that man,” Raine said, “Based on what you told me, you had it worse than him.”

“At least he did it to escape the abuse,” Eda soured, “I did it because of our breakup and continuing the hippie lifestyle. Instead, I become a whore and…”

“Eda… There are kids here,” Raine said before chuckling, “But still, I always knew you still have that hippie lifestyle in ya.”

“Hey, stick it to the man,” Eda nudged towards Raine.

Chapter Text

Hunter soon walked up the front doors of Westside High feeling a bit nervous about it. While yes, he still have friends that go there and it’ll bring some normalcy, but he’s afraid that he’ll get behind, or if others will recognize him as the runaway kid, or…

“HUNTER!”

Hunter knew that voice, it was his girlfriend Willow hanging around with Gus and Amity.

“Hey guys, what up?” Hunter smiled.

“I can’t believe that we are going to be sharing classes this year,” Willow said as she looked at her schedule, “This year is going to be amazing with you here.”

“Thanks Captain,” Hunter blushed.

Hunter’s first day was doing alright for him, he first has History with Gus and Amity, then he had biology with Amity and Willow, next they all had lunch together. Following that Lunch, he was alone in a remedial math class. Lastly, the last class of the day was photography with him, Gus and Willow. 

Everything was going alright at the very end when…

“Well Well Well, is it Half-a-bitch Willow and his little protector.”

He forgot that Boscha and her clique attended the school.

“Boscha, quit it,” Willow said as she tried to ignore Boscha’s torment.

“Please, I know your little knight in shining armor is here, he don’t scare me,” Boscha smirked.

“Come on Willow, let’s go home,” Hunter said towards Willow.

“Hey, I heard you were in the special class with the brainless. No wonder why you’re in the same grade as your girlfriend…”

Hunter soon balled his fist about to put the end to the pink haired check until…

“Ugh, Boscha, how about you shut your stupid mouth right now,”

It was Amity.

“Well well well, isn’t this the dyk-”

Amity then interrupted Boscha, “Okay Boscha, if you want to be like that, I want to remind you about the time you got caught moaning my name while you were rubbing one out in your bathroom during that pool party a couple of years ago.”

“What are you talking about Blight?” Boscha scoffed.

“Or what about the time you accidentally blurted Skara’s name when asked about your crush’s name during a sleepover last week,” Amity smirked.

“Well I. I.” Boscha growled, “You win this time Blight, just because your girlfriend isn’t here, doesn’t mean that I will make your life a living hell for being associated with these… bottomfeeders.”

“Fine,” Amity said, “Bye, don’t let the door hit you on the back.”

Boscha growled as she left muttering a few things as she left.

“How did you manage to do that?” Hunter asked.

“I used to be friends with her,” Amity replied, “Such a drama queen to be honest with ya.”

“I can’t blame ya for leaving her,” Gus chuckled.

“Anyhow, I gotta head home guys,” Amity said, “Mom and Dad needed to talk to me as soon as I get home.”

“Um, how are you doing at home lately,” Willow asked concerning about her best friend, “You mentioned to me before that they have been fighting much more as often had they gone.”

Amity sighed, “I don’t know Willow, but I had seen a piece of paper with a divorce lawyer on the return address on it.”

“Well, good luck with that,” Gus said, “Maybe your mother is the one packing.”

Amity chuckled, “Good Riddance I will say. See you tomorrow.”

“See ya Ams,” Willow smiled as Amity got onto her bike and headed off into the horizon.

Amity rode down Main Street, then as it crossed under the tracks, she made a right towards a narrow country road where miner’s cabins and trailer homes dot the road until she made a left up a driveway towards a large manor sitting up a small hill, known as Blight Manor. She then got off her bike, put it in the garage and headed up towards the door to reveal what was going to happen. Once inside, Amity soon heard a voice she dreaded to hear.

“There you are Amity…”

Amity sat down between Edric and Emira as Odalia and Alador sat across them.

“So… the reason why we called you here is because your mother and I are having a divorce.”

The kids knew all along what was going to happen, so they aren’t surprised.

“This is going to be a long and difficult process and that’s why we are announcing this now rather than later. You are free to choose who you want to live with.”

Amity knew who she is going to live with and that is Alador, lately, he had been becoming much closer with her, even defending her when her mother is going after her for whatever reason she had against Amity. The two even bonded for the first time in years.

“The business, manor and any joint assets however, will have to be sold and the profits be split into two. Your father has planned to stay in the area anyway.”

Amity knew that her father has an fascination with the mountainous region, so him staying in the area was good for him anyway. Maybe he can finally seek the freedom he desires.

“Now, all three of you are free to go…” Odalia said.

Amity then headed up to her room and started doing her homework. Her mother is pretty strict on her studies and wouldn’t let her even eat if she even had one B in her classes. She was pretty controlling over everything. Her hair color, her weight, what she ate, where she goes, who she associate, all things Odalia controls just to benefit her company’s so called image.

Blight Industries was a pretty minor series of coal mines that dot the region. A majority of them were rail served and they even had some company owned switchers assigned to these mines. However, this year alone, two of the mines ran out of coal and had to shut down resulting in cracks in the relationship between the two business partners after it was discovered that Odalia was dumping waste in the creek nearby. The divorce wasn’t surprising to any of the Blight kids, but they knew that it was bound to happen after Alador finally woke up after being confined in the basement for too long.

As the evening progresses, Amity looked at her photo of her and Luz together smiling. One day, she thought, she can finally be truly herself without hiding it from her mother. 

Edric and Emira, were in the manor’s pool with some bottles of beer in their possession. It had been a pastime for the two to hang around the pool with some alcohol in their systems, especially during the summer. Edric was wearing a t-shirt and swim trunks while Emira wore a nice stylish bikini.

“So, Mom and Dad are finally splitting up,” Edric said towards her sister.

“It was bound to happen Ed,” Emira replied as she began to take a sip of the beer, “Dad has become aware of Mom’s dealings for a few months now.”

“What will happen to us?” Edric asked.

“Oh we’ll just end up with Dad…” Emira said before changing her tone, “It’s mittens we’re worried about.”

“Amity?” Edric said, “What do you mean Amity?”

“Mom’s has been getting real clingy towards her,” Emira said, “She may force Mittens to stay with her.”

Edric sighed, “Do you think Dad would let her take Amity?”

“Fuck no,” Emira yelled, “Dad won’t let her take Amity away. I will promise you that…”

The two continued to drink at the patio as the evening progresses still worried about what will happen to Amity after her parents divorce becomes finalized, but luckily, Alador had something planned to get custody of all three kids, but that’ll wait until later.

Chapter Text

The next few months of school was a blur for Hunter and his friends. Even with their new classes, the four still hung out at both School, at the Owl House, or either at Willow’s or Gus’s houses as well. Hunter soon got into the SciFi scene thanks to Gus and even got into Photography thanks to Willow and his photography class. October soon came around and soon came Halloween. Hunter hadn’t really celebrated it since he was kidnapped, but this year, he was going all in.

Hunter and Gus dressed up as respectively O’Bailey and Captain Avery from the sci-fi novel and film series Cosmic Frontier with Willow became an imp, Amity dressed up as a witch, King dressed up as a werewolf, Eda using her Dolly Parton look from that summer’s trip to Dollywood, and Raine becoming a vampire. The main base was Gus’s house, given that he is in downtown Bonesborough and the gang started hitting up houses looking for candy to fill their bags. The four kids, plus king really enjoyed themselves until…

“Well Well Well, isn’t it little miss perfect Amity Blight trick or treating with Half-a-Bitch Willow and her bottom feeder friends.”

It was Boscha riding in the back of a pickup truck wearing a sexualized demon costume with Skara, Cat, and Amelia who were wearing a Michael Jackson costume, an catgirl getup and a nurse’s costume respectively.

“Boscha, knock it off,” Amity said, “Don’t you have to go to some party where you can get fucked by some boy you convinced to fuck.”

Skara, Cat and Amelia snickered for a bit until Boscha shouted, “Yeah right Blight, You’re the one fucking that girl that visited you last summer and I bet you are fucking that Half-A-Bitch as well.”

“Ugh, let’s just go Amity,” Willow said before Boscha got off of her truck and walked towards Amity.

“Listen here Blight,” Boscha sneered as she grabbed Amity’s face, “I AM your bitch. It’s such a shame that you abandoned me with some… Half-A-Bitch, a freak and this re-”

Willow soon came towards Boscha and punched her square in the face. In fact, she even punched and kicked Boscha relentlessly until Hunter and Amity had to drag her away.

“YOU MONSTER,” Boscha screamed as she got into her truck, “I’ll get you, Blight. You hear me. Come on girls, let’s go.”

The truck soon left as Willow began to ran off from Amity and the gang. Hunter soon chased after her just to make sure she wasn’t hurt or worse.

Willow soon ran down the street heading towards the one thing that helps her escape from her drama… the railroad tracks.

She soon sat down on the old disused rail next to the main line and began to sob.

‘she’s right, i am a half-a-bitch willow.’

She continued to sob for a while until she heard a voice.

“Willow, Willow where are you?”

It was Hunter, who was looking for her. Hunter soon found Willow in the spot where she’s at.

“There you are Willow. You had us worried-”

Hunter soon noticed Willow’s emotions being wrecked.

“Just go. I’m just gonna head home…”

“Willow, can you breathe in and out for me,” Hunter said as he breathed in for four and out for four.

Willow repeated his advice and then chuckled, “Looks like I taught you well…”

“Yeah, I only learned from the best,” Hunter chuckled as he kissed her cheek.

Willow began to blush before Amity, Gus, Eda, Raine and King shows up.

“Thank god we found you,” Raine said.

“You had us worried for a bit kid,” Eda replied holding King, “That Boscha girl… what a bitch. Let’s just head home before the cops come and arrest you for what you did to her. I’ll drop you kids off at your homes.”

“Yeah, we had enough trick or treating for one night,” Willow smiled knowing that she does have friends that’ll stand with her, or bail her out of jail.

Meanwhile with Boscha and her gang…

“That fucking bitch Willow,” Boscha ranted, “Little bitch thought she could beat the shit out of me. Doesn’t she know that her place belongs in the trash.”

“Can’t say I warned you Boscha,” Skara scowled, “Frankly, I’m sick of your shit right now. You’ve been acting like an crazed sociopath ever since Amity left our circle to hang out with Willow. Now I wonder why she left us for Willow.”

“Come on Skara,” Boscha shouted, “You see her beating the shit out of me. She’s an fucking animal.”

“Why would she,” Cat frowned, “Let’s see. You keep calling her a half-a-bitch, a pig, plant fucker, the whole nine yards.”

“Not to mention, you threw trash over her, and don’t forget what happened last summer when you nearly killed her,” Amelia frowned, “Maybe you deserved to get your ass kicked.”

“But. But but,”

“But nothing Boscha,” Skara said, “We’re done. We’re done being the mean girls just so that you can boost your ego. Come on girls, let’s walk home.”

The truck then pulled to a stop as Cat, Skara and Amelia jumped out.

“Wait, guys,” Boscha pleaded, “I can change… please don’t leave me.”

“Can it Boscha,” Cat said, “You made your bed. Now lay in it.”

The three girls left Boscha’s sight on their own separate ways… Boscha just groaned in anger,

“Fuck them. What do they know about social statuses.”

Chapter Text

“It's the most wonderful time of the year

With the kids jingle belling

And everyone telling you be of good cheer

It's the most wonderful time of the year”

Hunter was riding along inside Eda’s station wagon while Eda was driving. Lately, his car had to be repaired due to some engine trouble, so he’s been riding along with Eda to school and back, but Hunter couldn’t fathom why Christmas music was playing in the middle of November, especially before Thanksgiving.

“Hey, um Eda, what’s going on with the Christmas music this time of year?”

“Oh blondie, you know what’s coming up in a few days, right?”

“No, what is it?”

“It’s the Santa Train. Every year on the weekend before Thanksgiving, the railroad does this tradition where they send a train down the line and they make stops alongside the towns and drop off presents to the kids crowding along the tracks. It’s great fun wrestling all those kids for King.”

“Maybe I can help you get something for King,” Hunter said, but later on in the day at Lunch, he can noticed Willow being depressed.

“Hey Captain, is something the matter?”

Willow sighed, “It’s just, my papa has been stuck on back to back shifts between Spartansburg and Waycross and couldn’t get a train back home. I’m worried that he won’t make it before Thanksgiving.”

“It sucks that your papa won’t be home for the Santa Train,” Amity replied, “I know my family is going through a rough patch as well… I may just sneak over to see the Santa Train just to see it before I ended up somewhere else by Odalia.”

“Your mother had never allowed you see The Santa Train?” Willow said in shock.

“Yup,” Amity replied, “Apparently, she thinks that it’s an ‘peasant event’.”

“Not even last year when that steam engine pulled it?” Willow said in shock.

“Yeah, I heard Boscha and her gang tried to throw rocks at it and it blew smoke all over it,” Amity replied, “Boscha wouldn’t stop bitching about how an antique blew soot all over her dress and makeup for weeks.”

“Serves her right,” Hunter chuckled, “So, have you heard about what happened to Boscha?”

“No, what happened?”

“Aparently, after Willow kicked her ass,” Hunter explained, “Skara, Amelia and Cat cut ties with her and now Boscha is going out with some kid named Matt.”

“Lord help him…” Amity replied.

The bell soon rang, which signalized the fact that Lunch was over and that the next class will start soon. All throughout the afternoon, Hunter was brainstorming about how to cheer his girlfriend up, however, that’ll require some phone calls and some coercion with a certain eight year old.

Darius was in his office getting ready to head home until he heard the phone ring…

“Hello”

“Hi there, is this Santa Claus?”

Darius was confused, why is this kid calling the yard office looking for Santa? Maybe it had something to do with the Santa Train this weekend

“Why yes it is, what is it that I can do?”

“Well, my friend Willow’s Daddy couldn’t come home for Thanksgiving, so I’m asking Santa to make an early present for my friend’s daddy to come home for Thanksgiving so that she can be happy.”

“Why yes sir kid, what’s your friend’s daddy’s name?”

“Harvey, Harvey Park. I heard he was in this place called Waycross. My friend lives at--”

“Well, make sure that your friend Willow comes down the tracks Friday night, My elves are going to be on this magical train this Saturday and I want to give her a very special gift this Christmas.”

“Oh Thank You Thank You Thank You So Much Santa.”

“Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas kid, See you this Saturday!”

“I will see you too.”

King then hung up the phone next to Hunter.

“We did it, Hunter, now Willow can be happy this Christmas,” King smiled.

“Thanks for helping me out there King,” Hunter said as he gave the kid a five dollar bill, “Remember, this is our secret. Don’t tell anyone that you helped me get Willow’s papa home.”

That evening, a message was sent over to Waycross, GA from Latissa, VA. It was to notify Harvey Park that he is needed back at Latissa for a special assignment and that he was to be on the crew of the northbound Santa Claus Special immediately. Harvey was glad that he’ll be heading home to see his husband and daughter, but was wondering why is he on the Santa Train and not an normal freight train like usual.

Soon Friday came, and Willow was heading up towards the school entrance where he saw Amity and Gus there, but no Hunter.

“Hey… does anyone know where Hunter is?” Willow asked concernedly.

“Oh he called me this morning and said that he caught up with something, but he wanted me to relay you a message to be at your crossing tonight for something special,” Gus replied, “He told me that it was a secret.”

“A secret?” Willow asked, “Why would he skip school today and now wanted me to be at the crossing tonight?”

“I guess you’ll have to wait and see,” Amity shrugged.

Although Hunter claimed that he was sick, in reality, he was driving down to Kingsport to meet up a certain train parked there overnight and about to get ready for the next day’s rendezvous.

“Harvey Park?”

“Wait a minute, are you that boy that my daughter kept talking about?”

“Why yes it is, Hunter Clawthorne. I was the one that sent you here.”

“You were the kid that called for me to come home?”

“Well, I had a little bit of help. With some Christmas Magic up my sleeve.”

“I see…”

Soon, Hunter and Harvey helped with the preparations of the Santa Train to leave later that evening. However, Hunter made one quick phone call.

“Hello,”

“Hi there captain.”

“Hunter? Where are you at? Gus said that you were sick or something.”

“Oh, I’m feeling much better, however, I have a surprise for you. Just come down the tracks and stay there until I arrive.”

“Why is that?”

“Oh, I can’t explain much, just make sure you’re there. Okay, I think I’m getting held up soon. Love ya bye.”

The phone hangs up, now Hunter was acting weird, but alas, she headed out towards the tracks. The crossing where she used to freight hop lays dormant with the signal still showing it’s emerald glow rather than the ruby glow it usually has. It was getting cold and Willow stood there waiting for her boyfriend to arrive. A couple of hours came by and Willow was about to head off when she heard an horn…. She then looked and noticed a pair of headlights on the front and what is seemed to be a string of Christmas lights on the front of the locomotive. Willow knew what it is… It was the Santa Train, but why was it slowing down…

As the train slowed to a stop, a door in the passenger car opened and thus came out Hunter, Darius and most importantly…

“PAPA!!!! You came home!!!” Willow hugged her papa so tight, “Hunter, how did you know that you were bringing home my papa.”

“Well, I noticed how dour you have been over the last week, so I made a few phone calls with a little help from a certain Jolly Saint Nick,” Hunter said as he winked towards Darius.

Willow then began to hug Hunter, “Oh this is the most perfect Christmas ever. And it’s not even December yet. Thank you Thank You Thank You.”

“You’re welcome captain…” Hunter smiled, “Now, let’s climb aboard.”

The next morning, Willow and Hunter were out in the back of the observation car dropping presents off throughout the valley, of course they put on some elf ears to get into the festive season. However, down in Bonesborough, Hunter decided to throw a gift for King as a thank you for helping him get Willow’s father home. After a long day of dropping presents off and waving at the crowds, the train made it down to Kingsport where the two got into Hunter’s car to head home.

 For Hunter, it was nice to give back to a community that gave him an chance to become normal. For Willow, it was to experience the tradition in a new perspective and to reunite with family, especially with her boyfriend by her side.