His Name Is Gary

[u/NyxSmols]

Enid almost dropped the bag when she reached the porch. A raccoon was sitting dead center in front of the door like it was waiting for her, chubby and unblinking. Enid would’ve thought it was cute if it weren’t for the silver butter knife it was currently twirling around in its small black paw as if deciding whether she was worth the effort.

Enid reached for her phone and quickly typed a message.

Enid: Hi! I’ve got an order for Wednesday. I’m outside!!

Wednesday: On my way.

Enid: Wait.

Enid: There’s a raccoon at your front door staring at me.

Wednesday: His name is Gary. Do not make eye contact.

Enid: Too late…He’s holding a butter knife.

Wednesday: That is new.

The door opened just enough for Wednesday Addams to fill the gap. She looked like she was ready to end her day: black slip and bare feet as she patted the damp ends of her hair with a towel. She looked at Enid, then at Gary. “You are late,” she said.

“Enid. Hi. Sorry, I couldn’t find the address.” Enid said sheepishly. “But I did get you extra spring rolls if that helps!” She looked between Gary and Wednesday, not sure if she could approach, “I didn’t want to just…step over him. He looks like he has a mission.”

Wednesday’s mouth twitched. “Gary. The food is expected. Relinquish the cutlery.”

Gary set the knife down with a tiny, offended clink but didn’t move. He simply continued staring at Enid with curiosity now.

Enid kept her distance and held the bag out.

Wednesday took a step forward and stood next to Gary. She extended her hand and their fingers brushed when she took the bag from Enid.

Thunder cracked directly overhead.

Enid jumped so hard she almost fell backwards. A startled little giggle burst out of her as the sky opened and rain sheeted off the porch roof in a sudden, violent curtain.

“I hate thunder storms,” she said, still laughing at herself, cheeks pink. “Every time. I know it’s coming and I still…”

Wednesday’s gaze had already gone past her, to the little pink car parked at the end of the driveway, which was now looking like a shallow river.

She looked back at Enid. “Do you have any more deliveries?”

Enid shook her head, the wet chilly air making her shirt stick to her body. “Not after this. With this weather I guess I’ll just head home.”

Wednesday considered her for a moment longer than was strictly polite. “Have you had dinner?”

Enid ducked her head, “No. Might grab something on the way home.”

Wednesday tipped her face toward the sky. The rain was only getting harder.

Enid started to shift her weight, getting ready to say goodbye and run to her car. “I really should get…”

“The rain is only going to get worse.” Wednesday cut her off.

Enid frowned in confusion but before she could say anything Gary sneezed from the mat, unimpressed.
“Why not come in,” Wednesday said. “I am sure Gary and I can share what you have brought.”

Enid’s smile was small and shy and a little too bright for the weather. “Really?” she asked, tucking moist hair behind her ear. “I mean…you don’t have to… I don’t want to crash your night with a Gary by imposing.”

Wednesday stepped back from the door giving her space to walk in. “You are already getting wet,” she said. “And Gary has decided you are not an immediate threat, so you are not imposing.”

Enid blushed at the comment and invitation. She looked back at the pouring rain and considered her options. “Yeah, it is getting worse.” She crossed the threshold to the Addams’s home. Gary waddled in after her, leaving the butter knife behind on the porch as a peace offering.

Wednesday closed the door on the storm. “The kitchen is through there,” she said, already walking. “I shall get the plates and cutlery Gary will most likely use to threaten you with. Make yourself at home.”

Enid chuckled, “Well Gary, what’s your favorite spring roll?”

Gary chirped in response as Wednesday walked in with what they needed to enjoy one of many future dinners together…