Chapter Text
Staying with Wednesday's family had been great- in fact, more than great! He had gone fishing, learnt how to duel, actually dueled, and then spend a memorable mother's day with Morticia. The week with the Addams' was all Tyler could ever hope for- quality time with his family where they could bond, laugh, and create treasured memories. It was certainly a week Tyler could never forget. And already being back at home, he was missing the creepy and haunted house he found himself so safe and welcomed in.
Tyler had come back to Jericho feeling fresh, light, and somehow, new. Now in his own home, he can't help but feel lonely, especially on a day like this. Sheriff Donovan was in the police station and was to stay overnight as there was a new case that needed instant solving. Wednesday was back in Nevermore and had strictly forbade Tyler from seeing her as she had a lot of school work to catch up on, or so she says. Tyler doesn't believe her- not only had she done the nervous twitch in the corner of her mouth when she told him, but she was actually ahead in every one of her classes. But still, he listened to her. He had messaged Enid earlier asking if she wanted to hang out, hoping she would remember what today was, but she declined saying she was busy with something. His final call was Ajax- who never even responded despite Tyler calling him three times in a row.
It was mid-morning, around 8:45. The sun shines high in the sky, cloudless. There's a light breeze. Today was like any other day in May. But it bore one special occasion- Tyler's 18th birthday. He was finally now a young man. He woke up, not knowing what to expect. Maybe Wednesday in his arms because she's snuck into his room to surpris him? A stack of pancakes on the table that his dad made? Thousands of messages from Enid and Ajax wishing him a happy birthday. He got none of that. They couldn't have forgotten, right? Tyler asks himself inside his head. No! That's ridiculous! They're all probably just really busy. What a lame attempt to convince himself.
He sighs to himself in his room while putting on his Weathervane uniform. He struggles to get it past his head- did it shrink? Or did he just grow? His arms certainly got more buff and thick. And he's started to develop honey-crisp abs. Must've been all the training with Gomez. He manages to put it on before grabbing his work bag. He stuffs his apron in and heads out of his house to the driveway. His car lays in its designated spot, waiting for Tyler to hop in. With his keys in a hand, he opens the car and gets into the drivers seat. Trying not to feel so down, he starts the car up and heads for the Weathervane.
He wasn't even meant to work today- but someone had called in sick with a very serious injury and Tyler was the only one available. He wished he wasn't. He drives on manual, not needing a map or a GPS to direct him where to go. He's been to the Weathervane more times he's had dinner with his dad. He's been going there since he was 14- since before he even got his driver's license. Now that he could drive, he's memorized the right roads and the best shortcuts. With both hands on the steering wheel, he tries his hardest not to cry. He shouldn't. After a short drive of 10 or so minutes, he drives his car into the parking lot behind of the Weathervane. Once parked, he comes out of his car with his bag and walks to the cafe.
Usually, the bell that dings above the door when someone walks in would give Tyler a sense of dread knowing that he has another customer to serve, but today, it just gives him a sense of defeat, which he is close to coming to. None of his coworkers greet him when he walks in. He finds it in himself to shuffle his feet across the floor to head to the backroom where he could put his bag in his locker. Then he draps his arpon on the top of his uniform and mentally prepares himself for the shift.
It's now two hours into his shift. Tyler stands in front of the counter, already making a drink for a very demanding customer. With gritted teeth and annoyance he pours the coffee into a cup. He hands it to the man with no smile and bids him farewell. He's exhausted, leaning his arms over the counter and trying not to sigh heavily. Poor customer servive or whatever. He moves back up, back slunched and rubs his eyes with the palm of his hands. He's not paying attention to the cafe, mind drifting somewhere else- he imagines he's with Wednesday, curled up agaisnt her body while they lay in his bed (this time) and talk about his future after high school. So lost in his thought, he almost doesn't hear the bell ding from the table. Looking up, he is faced with Ajax.
Ajax wears a grey sweatshirt, blue-jeans, and nike shoes. His head is covered by his usual beanie which today, is a light-blue, ironically Tyler's favourite colour. Tyler then notices Thing perched upon the shoulder of Ajax. Tyler greets his friend with a real and warm smile, hand already out to do that weird fist-bump-hug guys usually do. He also greets Thing with a wave of his hand which Thing reciprocates. Once they've hugged, Ajax orders a latte and waits for Tyler to finish making it. Tyler works with skill and precision, done with the drink within 3 minutes. He hands the steaming cup to Ajax who thanks him. Thing signs something to Tyler that makes him laugh and Ajax just watches while Tyler starts wipes the counter down with a red rag, not sure what to say. He feels a sudden sharpness in his chest. He assumed Ajax would know what today was, but then again, they really only recently became friends.
And if it wasn't for Enid dating him, and Enid being Wednesday's best friends, he knows that they wouldn't even glance in each other's directions. Tyler tries not to dwell too much on that thought, he's good friends with Ajax now, no need to wonder what if. Ajax takes a delicate sip of the coffee, savouring in the rich flavours and letting out a contempt sigh. Tyler eyes him, pressing down his felings into the bottom of his stomach. He would've also expected Thing to remember what tday was, but the Hand makes no movement to indicate so.
The day had already started out slow and boring, and now it seemed to be spiraling down worse. He didn't recieve so much as a 'happy birthday' text from his father. And now, two of his friends have strutted into his workplace brushing the day off as it was nothing. Tyler wants to scream.
"Sorry I haven't been able to message you back" Ajax starts and Tyler just chuckles. He leans forward again with a timid expression. His body language says, it's fine, don't sweat it, but his face says otherwise. Clearly sad and disappointed, Ajax reassures him that it wasn't on purpose. "Everyone's just been swamped with schoolwork. Weems made all our teachers give us extra homework. We're like, drowning in papers" That manages a laugh out of Tyler, and a proper one at tthat.Thing just sits on the counter, resting in a comfortable position.
"Don't stress, man" Tyler reassures him back. They fall into an easy conversation about Tyler's time with Wednesday and her family as Ajax finishes his drink off. Once he's done, he tells Tyler about his own time staying with Enid and her family. Tyler would often leave to serve another customer, make a drink, or clean a spill but his attention never strays far from Ajax who gives him a sympathetic nod everytime he has to digress. When he's back at the counter, they continue on with their conversation and laugh at their shared experiences, comparing all the good and the bad moments together. Thing would occasionally butt in to give his own opinions and to commentate when appropriate too. As their conversation slowly dies out, Tyler glances at the clock and breathes a sigh of relief. His shift is finally over.
"You done now?" Ajax asks him, already knowing the answer.
"Yeah, I am."
"Cool, you wanna go play Call of Duty?" Tyler beams happily, finally someone was able to hang out with him. He nods eagerly and heads to the back to grab his bag. He strips off the apron and goes out to the front where Ajax is already waiting for him by the door. Thing walks on the ground until Tyler comes. Tyler bends down so Thing is able to jump onto his shoulder.
"I'll drive us to mine" Tyler announces with happiness and a wide grin plastered upon his face.
"Wait, what? No! We can't go to your house! We'll go to my dorm!" Ajax says, quickily and with a very panicked tone. Tyler eyes him with confusion and worryment. Thing seems to facepalm himself.
"Ajax, are you good?" Tyler asks carefully to not startle Ajax who was now fidgeting with his hands. One hand reaches up to his beanie where he scratches a bit of his head. The snakes underneath have grown restless and are eager to come out.
"Who, me? Of course I am, man" Ajax replies, trying to calm himself down. Tyler isn't buying it but just nods along. Thing was getting closer to suffocating himself. Everyone seemed to be acting weird lately, well, weirder.
"Am I even allowed to be in your dorm?" Tyler questions, ignoring Ajax' fidgeting.
"Yeah, Weems already said it's fine"
"Why would Weems know that?" Fuck, Ajax has already somehow managed to fuck this up. He avoids Tyler's eyes, unable to state why. This is only making it worse however as Tyler asks him again, "Ajax" He says calmly, "Why would Weems say it's fine for me to be in your dorm?". Tyler then realizes he's asked the wrong question, he should've asked Ajax why they couldn't go back to his but Ajax already starts speaking again. Tyler feels the sudden loss of weight on his shoulders and turns to find Thing on the dashboard of his car.
"Beacuse-beacause-" Ajax is stammering his words now, "Because man, I really wanted to hang out with you today and figured I could show you around my room!" He exclaims excitedly, phew, close call, he thinks. Tyler doesn't respond but instead gives him a very weak smile to say, whatever, I'm down. To further avoid talking about this, Ajax moves first, opening the door and letting Tyler out. They walk to his car, side by side with Ajax still high with nevers and Tyler still confused. Once nestled into Tyler's car, they put on the shared playlist they made-featuring Skillet and many other artists which captures them in singing the song.
Just as the boy have buckled their seatbelts in, Tyler doesn't drive. He sits in his seat, waiting. "Ajax, are you sure nothings going on with you today?" Ajax was the last person that should be asked that question, but Tyler really valued their friendship so he tried again. Ajax just shakes his head to signal no, turning up the speaker of the car louder to drown out any proper conversation. Disappointed, Tyler still doesn't start the car. Ajax knows Tyler is becoming suspicious of his behaviour, he has't done a really good job of acting normal, well, normie-normal.
They sit in silence aside from the music blaring from the speakers, creating awkward tension between them. Ajax has run out of ideas, he can no longer just turn up the music (Tyler turned it down moments ago otherwise the two would've become deaf), ignore Tyler's questions, and change the topic. So, naturally, he does the only thing he knows he can do- he lifts his beanie up to reveal the snakes and stones Tyler.
Ajax was grateful, really grateful. Scientists in a nearby facility had managed to create a serum that reverses the stoning from Gorgons. It's effective, bringing people back to life and no longer a stoned statue. He was given some doses- 3 small bottles of gold liquid- and told that it was all he was allowed to have for the time being. He didn't argue, and accepted them with happiness. That was 6 months ago, and so far, he hasn't any need for them. Until today.
Ajax in all honesty, had the easiest job to do: distract Tyler long enough for Enid and Wednesday to set up his surprise birthday party. The girls had gotten permission from the sheriff to do so.
His day started out at 7 in the morning to a loud knocking at his dorm room. He rubbed his sleepy eyes and shuffled his feet to the door to see who it was. Judging by the slow and deliberate knocking, it was Wednesday. He was right. He's welcomed by the goth girl and his girlfriend. Wednesday was already dressed for the day while Enid was still in her pajamas, most likely forced to come down here as soon as they woke up. "Morning Wednesday greets him before pushing past him to get into his room. Ajax doesn't stop her and gives Enid a hug as he brings her into his room.
"Not that I don't mind seeing my girlfriend and I guess, you too, Wednesday. But it's 7." Ajax says moving back onto his bed so he can rest his back. Enid follows and lays with him, her head on his chest. He wraps careful arms around her, ready to fall back asleep. Wednesday watches them and feels a sharp pang in her chest; that could've been her and Tyler right now- that is, if she was talking to him. She wasn't deliberately ignoring him- well, she was- but she wanted to show Tyler how much she meant to him by throwing him a surprise birthday party. And in order to do so, she had to keep her distance and be very discreet. When was she not?
Anyways. Wednesday rolls her eyes around sharply, ignoring her jealousy and speaks up which startles the couple on the bed."Ajax, we require your help"
"Let me guess, Tyler's surprise birthday party?" He answers, suddenly understanding why the girls were in his room this early. His eyes which were previously closed, flutters open and he smiles. Tyler's 18 now, that only happens once.
"Yes. You need to distract him. Get him out of his house for a couple of hours while Enid and I set up"
"That's easy!" And at that moment, his phone rings on his bedside drawer- a call from Tyler himself. Enid jolts up from the ding but rests again when she realizes it was just from his phone. Ajax grabs his phone and sees the notifications from Tyler. He's already missed two of his calls and was just about to answer the third when Wednesday snaps at him.
"If that's Tyler, do not answer"
"What, why?" Ajax asks, feeling sudden guilt. He didn't want Tyler to think he had forgotten his birthday.
"She told me the same thing!" Screamed Enid, "Tyler messaged me to hang out today and she told me to ignore him! Now he's gonna think we forgot about his birthday!" Enid starts pouting and Ajax rubs a hand on her back.
"That is precisly the point." Wednesday retorts back sharply. "It will make his reaction more, bright later tonight"
"Not even one message? What about a 'good morning'?" Enid tries reasoning with her.
"No" Enid falls back in her argument and takes it, she just hopes her present to Tyler will make up for her ignoring him.
"If I'm not allowed to message him, how am I meant to distract him?" Ajax questions cautiously. He could see that Wednesday was high-strung. Wednesday must really want this to go well, she wouldn't go this far for anyone.
"Simple, Go to the Weathervane. An unfortunate accident has happened to one of his coworkers, therefore, he must fill in and work. His shift will lasts approximately 3 hours. Go during the last, order a coffee, and talk to him. Then invite him to yours to play Call of Duty. Keep him at yours until 3."
"When does his shift start?"
"9"
"2 hours, that shouldn't be a problem."
"Stone him if you must to buy us time. You received the antidotes, did you not?"
"I did but like, I can't just stone Tyler!"
"You can and you will if the time comes for it"
"Okay, fine." Ajax says, defeated. He misses sleep and it doesn't help that Enid is on top of him.
"Enid, let's go" Wednesday demands, causing Enid to wake up from her nap. Ajax gives her a smile and hugs her before she gets off of him and back on her own two feet. "Oh, and Ajax. You need to let Weems know Tyler is coming to your dorm" And with that, the girls exit his room to head to Tyler's. Well, not before they go back to their own dorm so Enid can change and they could gather all the necessary equipment. Ajax just splutters in his bed. Oh Crypt...
And now here he was, sitting in the passengers seat of Tyler's car. Thing had been no help whatsoever, instead choosing to watch everything unfold from the dashboard. Ajax gives him a disapproving nod before he quickily puts his beanie back on in case any onlookers come by. Ajax glances at Tyler who's stuck in a startled position. Ajax hadn't given him any warning, so Tyler didn't have enough time to react and try to stop him. Sighing, Ajax unbuckles his seatbelt and heads to Tyler's door. He checks around to make sure no one is looking before dragging Tyler's stoned body out and placing him on his back in the back of the car. Good thing Ajax knows how to drive. With a sad expression he gets in Tyler's seat and heads to Nevermore, apoligizing repeatedly to Tyler.
Once they've arrived to Nevermore, he whips his phone out and sends a couple of messages to Eugene, Pugsley, and Agnes. They've all seen his message and within no time, have come to the gates of Nevermore. Ajax greets them lightly with Thing on his shoulder before stepping out of the car.
"Hey guys"
"Hey. What did you need our help with?" Pugsley asks before noticing Tyler's car. "Wait, isn't that...?"
"Yeah"
"And where is he?" Eugene wonders out loud, looking around for the barista boy.
"In the back"
"Why" That question came from Agnes who rocked back and forth in her stance.
"I stoned him" The three younger students eye Ajax, bewildered and confused. It seemed that Pugsley was the only one who understood as he clears his throat to say something.
"Let me guess- Wednesday needed you to distract him. You panicked. You stoned him. And now you need us three to help you carry him back to your dorm?"
"Good guess, Pugsley." The three groan in unison before opening the car door to grab Tyler.
"You planning on helping us?" Pugsley asks Thing who just scurries away.
"Wait, wouldn't people question why we're carrying a stoned Tyler into the grounds of Nevermore?" Eugene says, scared.
"Good thinking" Ajax replies before looking at Agnes. He had requested in his message to her to bring a large and black body bag. She didn't ask why but obliged happily. She nods in response before taking the bag and draping it over Tyler. The hardest part seemed to be over, now time to take Tyler back to Ajaxs' dorm. Easier said than done.
When the girls had arrived back to their dorm after informing Ajax of today's plans, Enid had gone straight to her bathroom to freshen up. She washes her face, brushes her teeth, and does her skincare. She then walks out to their room and sits at her vanity table to do her makeup. Once she's done, she changes out of her pajamas and into a bright pink and orange dress with glitter. It falls just up her knees so she puts on orange stocking underneath. She thehn grabs a pink denim jacket and places it over her dress. Wednesday had waited patiently for Enid. Not even going as far to bark at her to hurry up.
While Enid was busy pampering herself, Wednesday had gathered all the supplies. Fairy lights, dvds of sickenly sweet love films, extra snacks, and a black boxed wrapped with red ribbon. Wednesday finishes stuffing them into a seperate bag from all of the party supplies when she is, for once in her life, startled by Enid. She doesn't show that she is startled, instead hides the bag from her nosy roomate.
"What dya' have there, bestie?" Enid asks innocently, batting her eyelashes. Wednesday ignores her and grabs both bags, ready to leave for Tyler's. "Naw, come on Wednesday! I've agreed to help you with today, least you can do is show me!" Enid pouts. Wednesday stops in her tracks and rolls her eyes.
"I thought you agreed because you're friends with Tyler"
"And I am, but..."
"Fine." Wednesday says because she rather not have Enid continue to beg her what's in the bag throughout the entire day. She opens it and shows Enid who squels with delight.
"I thought we were doing a day party though, not a movie night"
"You all are. This is for after. I plan on another party, just for Tyler and myself." That's when it hits Enid- fairylights, rom-coms, snacks-
"OMG! YOU'RE RECREATING YOUR FIRST DATE WITH HIM! NAAAAW! Enids exclaims too loudly, in her excitement she hugs Wednesday who surprisingly doesn't push her away. Enid figures that Wednesday must really be in a good mood for today to not reject her affection. Enid gets off Wednesday after a few seconds so she can soak up the hug before squeling once again, this time softer.
"Tyler has done plenty for me, you, my family. I only wish I could do the same" Wednesday admits to Enid who looks at her with a mixture of sadness and proudness.
"And you have!" Enid reassures her with bright eyes and a flashy smile. "I know Tyler will be absolutely stoked to see this! I can't wait to capture this on my Tiktok! Just imagine the views I would get!" Wednesday again rolls her eyes.
"Now, let's hurry. We are burning time" And the girls are off. Enid takes the heavier bag from Wednesday as they're out of their room. They walk through halls and out of the gates to Nevermore. They wait for the shuttle, neither one in the mood to walk all the way to the Jericho town. On their way, Enid puts in her headphone and music, offering a bud to Wednesday who declines with certainty. The ride to Jericho is short and before they know it, they've arrived.
They get off the shuttle and head directly to Tyler's house. Tyler would've let his house at around 8:45, it was now 9:13. The girls walk through the many different shops of Jericho, ignoring the sights- they have one place in mind. Suddenly, a low grumble erupts from Enid's stomach. "Wait, can't we stop into the Weathervane and get some coffee? And some breakfast?" Enid tries pleading with her.
"No. Tyler is working"
"But-"
"Enough Enid" Enid stops with a disappointed look before they both continue along the trail to the Galpin household. Once they've arrived at 9:29, Wednesday takes out a spare key from her pocket and opens the door to the residency. The key feels light in her hand, still unfamiliar despite having it for a couple of months now. Tyler had only given it to her because he insisted he'd rather her break into his house via the front door rather than his window on the second floor. She accepted it begrudgingly.
"You have a spare key?" Enid asks, surprised.
"Yes, Tyler insisted I have one considering I spend a majority of my time here."
"The Sheriff doesn't mind?"
"He doesn't know" They make their way inside and Wednesday takes off her boots as she always does. Enid does the same and the girls are left in their socks. "We only have 3 hours to prepare" Wednesday announces, now removing her leather jacket.
"It's gonna take us that long?"
"Of course. We need to set up the food, decorations, and the activities"
"And just wondering, what activities do you have in mind, bestie?"
"Pin the donkey, pinanta hitting, beer pong. Customary normie partie essentials" Enid is impressed and agrees.
The girls begin with Wednesday rearranging the room so the couches don't take up much space. She then moves on to setting up the food and drinks while Enid hangs streamers from the walls and blows up some balloons. She hangs some on the table and chairs, throwing the rest on the ground. She then hangs up a big banner on the wall above the couches which read, 'Happy Birthday Tyler'. The banner is large and blue. The letters have been painted with precision, neat and straight. There's a light blue border around the words with confetti and ballons added on. Enid gawks at it with happiness.
"By the way, who made the banner?" Enid asks, knowing it wouldn't possibly be Wednesday. Sure, she loves Tyler, but she wouldn't dare touch that much colour without breaking out into hives.
"Xavier" Enids jaw drops in shock.
"No. Way."
"Mhm" Wednesday hums back, ignoring Enid's expression and continues to arrange the food table. She places large and small bowls alike, not yet opening the many snacks in fear they will grow soggy over the time. She stacks some cups on one end of the table. Wednesday then goes over to the bag which settles at the bottom of the staircase to take out a box of cake. It's two layers of chocolate, decorated with frosting and the number, '18' sprawled on the top. In a nice rectangle shape, it feels heavy in her hands as she takes it over to the fridge, careful not to drop it. She continues to ignore Enid who splutters some nonsense. Seeing that Wednesday isn't paying attention to what she was saying, Enid walks over to her friend, speaking up.
"You can't just ask Xavier to make a banner for your boyfriend!" Enid exasperates.
"I did."
"But why?"
"Because no one else is as skilled with decorating a banner with simple words and even simpler images. Really Enid, a newborn baby could have done it if I had asked" Wednesday replies sarcastically, closing the fridge door.
"Did he put up a fight? Or worse, confess his love for you again?"
"Surprisingly no. I requested it late last night and he agreed"
"Oh"
"Oh indeed." They speak no more, going about with their designated tasks. Enid moves onto setting up an area for pin the tail on the donkey. Wednesday goes outside to set up beer pong. Although, it wasn't beer and would just be soda as none of them were legal to drink. She moves a wooden table outside and centers it in the middle of the backyard. She then arranges the cups in a way for them to shoot pingpong balls into. The said balls were in a little container on a chair. Satisfied, Wednesday joins Enid back inside who has finished with everything else.
It only took them a total of two hours and 45 minutes. They have 15 minutes to rest and wait for the guests to make their way. Exhausted, they both sink into the couch sharing the feeling of triumph and tiredness. Wednesday wants to say thank you to Enid, but the words don't leave her mouth. She isn't good with expressing her gratitude, well, not until Tyler came along. And so Wednesday does the next logical thing, she gets up from her side of the couch and sits aside to Enid, who watches her. And Wednesday hugs her. First shocked, then happy, and then Enid sinks . Knowing Wednesday's allergies would act up, Enid sits still but leans her head on Wednesday's shoulder. She's smiling hugely and her heart thumps with all sorts of emotions. The hug lasts for a full 30 seconds to which Wednesday stands up arublty before making her way back to the other side of the couch. Just 10 more minutes...
Back in Ajax's dorm Tyler's still stoned. Agnes, Pugsley, and Eugene had left moments ago to get ready for the party. Thing had disappeared, most likely on his own way to Tyler's house. Tyler's car is still parked outside of Nevermore and is secluded away from other students. Ajax didn't really know what to do when they had placed Tyler in his room- does he use the serum instantly and get lashed out from Tyler, where it'll end badly to the point the boys might not be friends again? Or, does he play video games to pass the time, bring Tyler back to his stoned, and then use the serum on him just as everyone screams, 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY'? Ajax likes the sound of the second anwer better so that's what he went with.
It was around 1 when they had brought Tyler back. The trip was tiring and hard. Not only was Tyler too heavy, but the three youngers had kept complaining. Ajax soon grew tired of their complaints and told them to either shut up or leave. They closed their traps tightly, afraid they were Ajax's next victims- and only two of them were able to be unstoned. Ajax carried Tyler by his feet, Agnes by his head, and then Eugene and Pugsley by his torso. Once they had managed to climb the many stairs to the boys dorms and made their way to his room, the three stayed to keep Ajax some company. And to prevent him from unstoning Tyler too early.
"I still don't understand why you couldn't have just, acted normally. Was it really that hard for you to keep his party a secret?" Pugsley inquiries whilst sitting on the floor. The three boys were all in the middle of a game of FIFA, and were very into it. Agnes just watches them from Ajax's bed, bored out of her mind.
"It wasn't hard for me to keep it a secret!" Ajax says, trying to defend himself, "It was hard for me to lie to Tyler, that's all!"
"Really? I lie to Tyler all the time" Pugsley says, scoring a ball in the game.
"I'm really good at lying" Agnes tells the lot, tilting her head in a very creepy fashion. The boys take a quick glance at her and get back to their game. And that's how they spend the next hour or so, with the boys playing video games and Agnes watching them from the foot bed.
When the time reaches past 2, Agnes bids her goodbyes and leaves first to get ready. "If you wanna hitch a ride with Tyler and I just meet us back at his car" Ajax tells her and she happily nods. Pugsley and Eugene don't leave immediately, staying for 10 minutes more. After a final game Pugsley gets up first, telling Ajax he'll be back in 20 to help Ajax carry Tyler back to the car. And then it's Eugene who has to go.
"I need to iron out my nice dress shirt!" Eugene tells him with a very enthusiastic tone. Ajax smiles along before reminding him to not take to long because two people won't be enough to carry Tyler out. Now he was left alone with Tyler in his room, who was still covered under the bodybag.
"Whoops, hey man. Sorry about that." Ajax tells him whilst taking the cover off. He isn't sure if Tyler can hear him, maybe, maybe not. But he continues to talk, hoping deep down Tyler could hear. "Again, wanted to apoligize for stoning you and then essentially kidnapping you. But I had a good reason! And trust me, you'll love it. I saw it in you, you know. You thought we all forgot your birthday! Come on dude! I would never forget your birthday, ever! I'm gonna tell you this now because it's gonna be extremely awkward if I say it to you while you're awake: Thanks for being, you know, there for me. Even thought we've only been friends for what is it now, two months? It's really cool hanging out with you" Ajax sighs before giving the statue a very awkward hug. He then gets ready himself, moving to the bathroom for a shower.
He doesn't take too long. Once he's done washing himself, he changes into a nicer pair of clothes- black suit pants, a black collared top, but keeps on the light blue beanie. He had worn it on purpose, hoping it would show Tyler that he really values their friendship. He dashes up on some cologne and reaches underneath his bed for the gift he had gotten Tyler. It was a plain brown box and inside, was a matching light-blue beanie, which Ajax had made himself. He had also gotten Tyler a new cookbook, some chocolates, and a small album full of pictures they managed to take together. Ajax hopes Tyler likes it. He's suddenly distracted from his thoughts by a knock on the door- Pugsley and Eugene were back. Time to party...
Dragging Tyler back to his car was easier than bringing up. Just like before, except this time without Agnes, the boys each carried a weight of Tyler who was once more covered by the bag. Once they've reached Tyler's car, they are met up Agnes who leans on the side of it. She's dressed in a dark-green silk dress with puffy sleeves. Her red hair is in two plaits- identical to to Wednesday's. In her hands was her gift to Tyler which was another cookbook as she didn't know him that well. They greet eachother before getting into the car. Agnes sit in the front with Ajax while the boys are in the back with Tyler's head and feet in their laps.
The ride isn't long, the four manage to make enough conversation to avoid uncomfortable silence. "So, what'd you guys get Tyler?" Ajax asks the boys, interupting their own conversation about bees.
"I got him a cookbook and his own bee suit so he can join Wednesday and I!" Eugene exclaims happily. It seems like everyone got him a cookbook.
"You guys are so boring," Pugsley states, puffing his chest out to assert some sort of dominance, "I got Tyler a candle made from my late-cousin's ashes, a Egyptian snake with an enclosure, and a pocket-knife carved from the marble of a tiger's tooth!" They look at him. Pugsley's grinning widely, not hearing the insanity of his gifts to Tyler. They don't bother explaining it to him either.
In no time at all, they've arrived to Tyler's house. Ajax parks his car in the driveway. They all climb out and drag Tyler to the door. Agnes knocks once to let the girls know they're here. Enid is the one who answers. She hugs Agnes before hugging Ajax. "Uuuh, guys. Why is Tyler stoned?" She asks letting the group in.
"Long story"
"It really isn't" Pugsley retorts. He's ignored as they walk in. The air is light and filled with fun. They are welcomed with streamers and balloons. People are already inside, mainly students from Nevermore- there's Bianca, Yoko, Diviana, and even Xavier has made it! Some of Tyler's coworkers are there too. Most surprising out of them all (although, it shouldn't be that surprising), is Wednesday and Pugsley's family- Morticia, Gomez, and Uncle Fester. On the food table is Thing who moves between each bowl of food. And in a corner, Sheriff Galpin who looks like he's trying to avoid the big crowd. They set Tyler by the door on his own, waiting for Wednesday who appears to be anywhere but the party.
"Where's my sister" Pugsley asks Enid who's busy chatting with Ajax.
"Oh, in Tyler's room. She said she doesn't want to be here until Tyler is. I think she's just overstimulated" Enid answers, shrugging her shoulders.
"I'll bring her down then." Pugsley walks up the stairs after saying hi to his parents and uncle. He gets lost in the hallway and assumes Tyler's room is the last one by the end. He walks over, creeping and footsteps light. When he gets to the door, he can't hear anything but it's slightly ajar so he peeps in. From outside, he can see Wednesday sitting at the foot of Tyler's bed, wearing a jacket that's blue. Pugsley recognizes it instantly, it was Tyler's favourite jumper. He wore it all the time but wasn't able to bring it to their's during the week he stayed.
"What are you doing" Pugsley says opening the door fully. He must've caught Wednesday by surprise as she jolts upright to her feet. She doesn't make indication to remove the jacket but glares in her brother's direction.
"Nothing" she snaps before moving past him. She doesn't have time to defend herself. He follows her, trying to hide his snickering. He had just found Wednesday lost in thought, probably about Tyler and in his jacket which by the way, was in colour! Oh how the mighty have fallen. They make their way down to the party where every one looks at Wednesday with a surprised look. She glares at them as it to say, 'say anything about me in his jacket and I will cut all your limbs off while you watch'.
"Let's get this over with" Wednesday snaps, taking every one out their trance. They all get into position, crouching close together behind the couch. Ajax and Wednesday drag Tyler to the front of the couch near the television. Wednesday then nods to Ajax who has already opened the vial with the anti-stoning serum. He pours it over Tyler quickly before joining everyone else behind the couch. The musics been turned off and now all is left is silence and the thumping of all their hearts, Wednesday's loudest of them all.
It takes Tyler a few seconds to come over the stoning. His limbs are stiff and he tries to move them. His body still aches from being the same position since 12. He doesn't remember much from before- a very sad morning, a very tiring shift, a near argument with Ajax, and then, darkness. When his consciousness comes back, his eyes feel dry but remain open so he can absorb what's in front of him. He splutters a bit first, trying to pump words into his mouth but he is left speechless by the scene left before him.
He sees the streamers, the banners, the table stacked with gifts. His eyes drift over from the balloons to his goth girlfriend standing beside him, eyes glimmering with hope. "Wednesday?" He says in a low voice. It undos her and she collides into him with a very hard hug. He reciprocates, wrapping his strong arms around her. "Oh Wednesday" He whispers to her with a very longing tone. How he's missed her. Tyler buries his face into her shoulders, so grateful for the surprise she gave him. Suddenly there's whispers coming from behind the couch, loud enough for the two to seperate (not far, just enough to leave some space between them) but low enough for them not to hear.
"What's happening?"
"Do we come out and scream surprise now?"
"Wait for Wednesday's signal!"
"Ah, young love! Reminds me of us, mia mor!"
"Shhh, quiet!"
"Guys, can we hurry up? My legs cramping"
Wednesday rolls her eyes at the few phrases her ears manages to catch.Tyler just looks at her, full of adoration and a weak smile at the corner of his lips. He looks tired and must be tired. Even if he had just spent the last few hours as a statue. Wednesday knows that the people behind the couch were waiting for her, she could play this two ways- give them the signal or delay them longer so their bodies ache the same way Tyler's does.
"Wens, come one" Tyler urges her in a whisper. She gives in, snapping her fingers twice. Everyone gets up from behind the couch, even Donovan, and screams, 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY TYLER!' with loud voices and a lot of ethusiam. Tyler is certainly surprised, with one arm still around Wednesday another covers his mouth.
"Guys, wow!" He exclaims, truly breathless. Wednesday moves away from his as people start to come around to give him hugs. Ajax is first who mutters apoligizes of stoning Tyler but Tyler reassures him it's fine, issue forgotten. Enid is next who enlopes him with both arms, lifting him off his feet. Then Pugsley, Morticia, and Gomez who hug him individually. Uncle fester gives Tyler a finger so he can be electrocuted- Tyler doesn't mind though, honestly he needed the jold to wake his body up. Donovan is last, patting Tyler on the back. Tyler thinks it isn't enough, and hugs his dad tight. Donovan reciprocates it, arms coming around the boy. Once they've seperated, Tyler is sent to his room to change out of his Weathervane uniform.
When he gets back down, Wednesday brings him to the table filled with food and begins stuffing his face with chips and treats. She assumes that he must be starving from being a statue. He accepts the treats with a soda and guzzles it all down before he ie brought out to the back to play a game of 'beer pong'. After a couple of rounds, Uncle Fester is determinded winner.
Then it is time for pin the tail on the, Pugsley? When Enid was setting the game up, she didn't question Wednesday why there wasn't a cut-out picture of a donkey, assuming Wednesday was bringing a real one to the party- then again, Enid should've questioned her own thought at that as well. Anyways, Pugsley doesn't mind being the game, enjoying it and taunting people who aren't able to get him. The game lasts for 20 minutes before they bring Tyler to the couch so he can open up some presents.
He is seated in the centre with Wednesday on his left clutching onto his arm like he was going to vanish into thing air. Every one else surrounds him, presents being passed around to Tyler who begins drowning. He starts with Agne's and Eugenes. He thanks them for the cookbooks and the bee suit before opening Enid's. She had gotten him a black-leather jacket that Wednesday highly approves of. She had alo written him a very sweet card that exploded with glitter. He hugs her in thanks and begins with Ajax's.
Tyler opens the box and takes out two books- one cookbook (you can never have enough) and the album. Tyler flips through the pages with sentiment and emotions. He's already breaking down at the thoughtfulness when he is nudged by Ajax that there is still one more gift in the box. Tyler brings it out and sees it was a matching beanie in his very shade of blue. Tyler pumps his hands and tackles Ajax. He instantly puts the beanie on, feeling very proud.
There are still many gifts left to open so Tyler speedruns through them all- some more cookbooks, cooking utensils, a new pair of sneakers, an unhealthy amount of chocolate (Tyler has a bad addiction to it), some lego sets, and weirdly enough, a painting of a cave from, Xavier? Tyler just mutters a very sincere thank you him before saying loder thank yous to every one elses.
Pugsley's gift was next, and it both impressed Tyler while also scaring him. Tyler promised Pugsley that he would have the tiger-knife on his body at all time and that he will burn the candle once each day at 6pm. When he opens the enclosure, he jumps with frightment, coming face-to-face with the Egyptian snake. Every one around him laughs and he embarassingly brushes off his reaction before taking the snake to a different room for his own peace of mind. Tyler hugs him and says yet another thank you.
Morticia hands him her gift which is a large canvas that overcasts his body. It's wrapped in black tissue-paper and Tyler is careful when opening it. He is met with a gold frame, each indent shaped like a vine intertwining under the other. It feels heavy in his hands and he has to use both to hold it up. His eyes trace every pattern, noting the delicate precision it took to have made it. He then notcies the picture- a painting of Tyler with the Addams, standing and smiling like a normal, happy family. Tyler wants to cry again. "A new family portrait" Morticia tells him as he stands up to enlope her in a hug. He ignores a burning sensation at the side of his body wich comes from his father's direction- guilt and slight jealousy. Carrying on.
Gomez gifts Tyler with yet another family heirloom, this time a telescope. He tells Tyler that he'll be able to see whatever it is he is searching for, even if the thing is far across the country. Tyler can't wait to put it to good use. The final gift he gets for the party is from his dad who hands him a very small box. Tyler shakes it, trying to guess what's inside. Carefully he lifts the lid up and takes out a set of keys. "Dad? Is this what I think it is?"
"It is. You've been complaining for weeks that your current car won't start up, stops in the middle of the road, and is beginning to smeel like an animal died in the back. Figured this was the best thing I could've gotten you."
"Trust me dad, it is" And Tyler leaps up to hug his father.
"Jake from the station drove it up a couple a moments ago" Tyler doesn't need to be told twice, already bolting out of the door. Wednesday is the only one who follows him out, still dazed that he hasn't realised she's been wearing his jacket this whole time.
"Wednesday, look at it!" He screams happily.
"I am"
The car is bigger, shinier, and already smells so much better than his last. To make every thing even better, it's in the blue he adores so much. Wednesday watches him run around it, like he was a child who was gifted a new bike- she loves seeing him like this, so care free and happy. Tyler then spends the next 10 minutes in the car, testing out the new gears. She doesn't join in and opts to stay outside as he plays with his new toy.
Tyler comes out finally and heads to Wednesday. He wraps his arms around her tightly and she reciprocates the action with her own arms at his waist. Because of her height, his chin is able to rest on the top of her head which isn't too heavy for her. "Thank you, Wens"
"The car was not my gift"
"No, thank you for the party. For putting all this effort for me. You might've not gotten me a car, but you got me something so much better. You got me you. And that's all I could ever ask for." Wednesday could feel her cheeks burn up and turn red, but for once she allows the feeling.
"You've said more, 'thank yous' today than you've ever told me you love me" She jokes but it comes out very seriously.
"I guess then I have to tell you 'I love you' repeatedly until you get sick of it"
"Tell me once and I'm already sick. Besides, it is your birthday today. I believe I am supposed to be iniating affection and romantic gestures"
"You don't have-" She cuts him off with a sharp glare and allows her to continue.
"Tyler. There are many things you have given me. Loyalty. Safety. Assurance. Trust. Life. And love. I only wish I am able to do the same for you. As you are aware, I'm not used to this- being a relationship nor being affectionate. But you came along, and how I've crumbled under you. Yoou Tyler, are perfect. You are my muse. My sun. And my love. I may not always be able to tend to your every needs, but I am forever grateful for you. Now and forever" Her confession moves him deeply and he leans down to capture her lips in a kiss.
It's deep, raw, and passionate. The two seperate, testing foreheads together while they catch their breath.
"I love you, Tyler"
"And I love you, Wednesday"
"I do still need to give you my gift"'
"I don't need anything else"
"After the party we will go to Crackstone's Crypt, just the two of us. Away from every one else. There, my gift awaits for you. Dress appropriately, it gets hot" And with that, Wednesday hands inside first, leaving Tyler to his own.
He doesn't follow her instantly, taking the time to breathe in a fresh sigh of relied and contempment. It was only a few months ago that his life took a turn for the better. After his mum's death, he threw himself into a pit of depression- as if on autopilot, his days looped in the same boring way it has been from before Wednesday would step into the Weathervane. He'd go to school go to work, and come back home to a lonely dinner at an empty table in an empty house.
Sure, his relationship with his dad was rockier than ever, but they were getting there. Now they (or try to) have dinner together 3 times a week. It's the most Tyler could've bargained for. They sit at the table, talking about school and work and the the game. Again, it was a work in progress.
Wednesday walking into the Weathervane was equivalent to Moses parting the red sea. She had come in with determination and a plan to leave Jericho but had left with a quad and Tyler's heart. With her came friends Tyler was forever grateful for. He was no longer lonely, but now surrounded with the constant reminder that he was loved by many. Gone was the boy who cried himself to sleep every night. He was now replaced with some one who had so much love, happiness, and life to live. This Tyler beamed with extent and joy.
Tyler smiles to himself- a great girlfriend, a proper family, amazing friends. What more could a boy ask for? And with that, Tyler walks back in not before coming to a realisation at Wednesday's words, "But it's gonna rain tonight!"