Flunge
To say that Enid was happy would be a serious understatement. In fact Enid was positively bouncing down the street, still floating on the high from a few days before. Hanging out with Wednesday had been just as easy and pleasant as it had been the first few times. Admittedly there’d been a part of Enid that had feared that their interactions would turn awkward once the safety of the professional relationship had been removed. Enid’s social skills being more than a little rusty.
But instead the direct opposite had happened. They’d steadily started to understand each other more and more with each time they’d seen each other. Enid even succeeding in making Wednesday crack a genuine smile, or at the very least a mischievous smirk, several times throughout the night.
Wednesday herself was also, as Enid had already gotten a glimpse of, downright funny and genuinely pleasant. Once you got past the layer of coldness and standoffishness that was. The death glares and way too genuine threat of stabbing people however seemed to persist throughout the girls personality.
What was however most relieving was the fact that Wednesday genuinely wanted to spend time with Enid. Going as far as accepting an invitation to a bar despite knowing full well she wouldn’t be able to drink. Although Enid had maybe oversold the place a little. She was still going to take it as a sign.
A sign that had gotten Enid so riled up that she’d managed to get this weeks practice schedule from Kent, being totally smooth about it too, and was now making her way towards the rec center planning on surprising Wednesday. Fully considering skipping the last few feet down the sidewalk to get rid of some of her jitters
Opening the door Enid was quickly greeted with the slightly muffled sound of metal clanging against metal. The constant clanging only growing louder as she made her way into the gym where most of the girls seemed to be paired fighting against one another
Wednesday was as per usual easy to spot in her jet black suit. Moving back and forth on a piste engaged with an opponent in white. Whoever it was seemingly giving Wednesday more of a challenge than in the last match Enid had seen her in. The realization that she was actually able to see that causing Enid to pause for a second. The hours she’d spent reading and watching fencing matches seemingly paying off
Enid half ran over to the bleachers taking her usual seat next to Kent to gave her a small nod in recognition before turning his attention back to the gym floor. Following his gaze after she’d sat down herself Enid realized that he was watching the same match that was drawing Enid’s attention. Wednesday exchanging blows with her mystery opponent
Enid had just enough time to wonder why Kent was also observing Wednesday with such intensity, a second away from asking him just that. When Weems voice rang out through the gym and Enid’s question was answered as both Wednesday and her opponent removed their masks
Even at a distance Enid had no difficulties recognizing Bianca as the mask was pulled from her face that was shining with sweat in the fluorescents in the gym. And her being Wednesday’s opponent did explain why the fight had looked more even matched. The two of them being fairly similarly ranked, and the only ones at their level in the club as far as Enid knew
Enid was however not left alone with her thoughts on the matter for long as Wednesday, as she pushed her braids out of her face, glanced over towards the bleachers and caught sight of Enid. The various shades of pink in her outfit standing out against the polished wood.
Wednesday pulled a slight face that quickly changed into an equal parts surprised and inquisitive eyebrow raised in Enid’s direction. Enid merely responded by flashing a smile and waving happily. Taking some pride in the fact that she was certain she saw the shorter girl roll her eyes at her before making her way towards the center of the gym, where the rest of the girls were already congregating.
The rest of the practice session went with Weems giving out a few messages that Enid half tuned out. Only registering that there was something about an upcoming tournament. Which was probably what Wednesday had been talking about the other day. Luckily it didn’t take long before Weems dismissed the girls and the usual wave of white started to move toward the locker rooms. A singular speck of black in between them
Enid managed to catch Wednesday’s eye again. Enid trying to communicate that she’d just wait by the door as she usually did. Knowing that Wednesday had a preference for showering off quickly. She wasn’t exactly sure how well her facial expressions and vague hand gestures carried over the message, but Wednesday did send her a small nod before following the sea of girls out the door. So Enid took it as a success
Wednesday once again showed an impressive ability to get herself ready to leave in record time. Enid barely feeling like she’d waited for more than a few minutes before the telltale mop of wild and now unbraided hair popped up next to her
“Enid” Wednesday greeted in her usual manner. Enid smiling at the way it was already becoming familiar
“Wednesday” She shot back with a smile
“is there a problem with the article or is this another one of your attempts to drag me to a dive bar?” Wednesday asked sounding so serious that it took Enid a moment to realize that it was supposed to be a joke. Which was gonna take some time getting used to.
“actually I’m here because you mentioned something about paying me back for your drinks the other night. And I’ve seriously been craving more of Eugene’s coffee” Enid shrugged doing her best to sound casual
“ah so this time it’s inviting yourself for coffee on my dime” Wednesday said as they started to make their way towards the side door Enid knew led to the parking lot
“I just didn’t think you’d want to have an outstanding debt with me” Enid teased. Knowing she’d hit home when Wednesday’s eyebrow twitched at the comment. It having been pretty clear that Wednesday took her obligations to other pretty seriously
“And I thought that debt would have been settled after I carted your drunken self home to my couch” Wednesday shot back making Enid cringe at the vague memories of having to be taken home after overindulging a bit. Damn Yoko and her siren song of free beer
“nah not applicable” Enid said refocusing on the matter at hand, rather than lingering on her own shame “that just means I owe you a night on my couch. And Yoko snores like a chainsaw so you really don’t want that” The latter part being true. Even if Enid left out that Yoko snored mostly during the day
“… fine then” Wednesday sighed after a few moments making a big show of looking annoyed at the apparent defeat. Even if Enid had a sneaking suspicion that she’d planned on giving in from the start. Especially considering the fact that they were now approaching Wednesday’s car. The girl beeping it open before depositing her backpack in the trunk. The two of them on their way down the street shortly after
“so yeah we’re pretty much ready to go to printing, so I don’t imagine there’ll be any changes to the article at this point” Enid said as she pulled the door to the café open, instantly flooded with the smell of coffee and honey “if my editor cared enough to actually do that”
“from the way you speak of him your editor doesn’t sound like a very accomplished journalist” Wednesday remarked as she followed Enid through the door
“eh it is a pretty small article” Enid shrugged “and his views on a lot of sports are not exactly positive”
“Fencing included” Wednesday snarked as she took her place in line. The small group of people making Enid strangely happy at the idea that Eugene and his mother’s seemed to be doing well
“yeah he’s kind of an idiot” Enid smiled towards Wednesday “I’d say he ought to actually try and watch it at some point but I doubt he’d appreciate it enough”
“bold words for someone who didn’t know the difference between foil and sabre at the beginning of the month” Wednesday definitely shot Enid a small smirk this time as she said it
“hey I’ve gotten better!” Enid half yelled only realizing that she was being rather loud when the people in front of them glanced back towards them “I got most of the rules down and I almost understand how priority works” Enid continued this time a bit quieter
“I’m excited for you to be introduced to competition rules then” Wednesday said her voice thick with mirth
“wait they’re different?” Endi exclaimed genuinely worried about the prospect of having to get into another set of rules right as she was beginning to understand this one. Wednesday merely scoffed in response, a hint of smile playing on her lips as she made her way towards the counter, the people in front of them having just vacated the spot
“Thought I heard my favorite customers somewhere” Eugene smiled as the two of them stepped up to the counter. Enid returning the smile feeling a little flattered to already be considered a favorite. Even if it was most likely just do to her coming in her with Wednesday
“Eugene” Wednesday nodded
“I’ll get you your usual” Eugene said before turning his attention towards Enid “and what will you be having?”
“hmmmm” Enid thought glancing over the menu. The entire selection sounding too tempting making Enid realize she really had to start deciding before coming up to the counter. She just had a bad habit of getting lost in conversation
“surprise me?” she said after a few seconds “I’m down for anything. Except matcha though”
“not your cup of tea” Eugene said clearly proud of his own joke
“too bitter” Enid made a face sticking out her tongue. Before hearing Wednesday scoff again. Enid quickly turning to glare at the other girl who was still in the middle of shaking her head
“we’ll get those out in bit” Eugene said before turning back towards a woman that Enid had only noticed just now “má, one black death and a cup of mom’s favorite please”
“still don’t think anyone should be drinking this” Enid heard the woman mumble to no one in particular as she started on the drinks. Enid silently agreeing since Wednesday’s usual still scared her a little
“hello to you too Mrs. Ottinger” Wednesday said as she walked past the espresso machine hiding most of the woman, and towards the pick up counter. Enid following behind
“so anything interesting happening with fencing recently?” Eugene asked having followed them to the other end of the counter
“not in particular” Wednesday deadpanned “unless you’re interested in hearing Weems’s detailed report on my footwork”
Eugene pulled a face that said that he was not
“don’t you guys have a match coming up?” Enid asked tilting her head ever so slightly to the side “I heard Weems saying something about plus the whole thing at the bar”
“oooooh is it against anyone exciting?” Eugene asked as he started checking the small selection of syrups and sugar that was set up by the pick up counter in an attempt at looking busy as he made smalltalk
“Hardly. It’s against Fellsprings so it offers little challenge” Wednesday replied sounding so overly confident that it made Enid smile. The girl really didn’t mess around when it came to fencing “besides it’s a practice match so noone is expecting much”
“Practice match?” Enid raised her eyebrows
“A match that’s not part of any official tournament and doesn’t award any point in rankings” Wednesday elaborated for once not teasing Enid about her lack of knowledge on the subject
“sooo it’s for fun?” Enid asked
“Partly” Wednesday shrugged “it’s also relaxing being able to be able to compete without having to worry about the consequences of loosing. And it gives you a chance to gauge the other teams strategy. And you’ll undoubtedly have to face them again at some point”
“doesn’t that put you at a disadvantage?” Enid scrounged up her nose
“Not if both teams show their hand” Eugene chimed in “then you’re still on equal grounds”
“exactly” Wednesday nodded at Eugene “besides Weems insists that it build camaraderie between the clubs. Although I fail to see the need”
“You would” Eugene deadpanned to which Enid just nodded in agreement. Both of them receiving and annoyed glare from Wednesday in response
They were interrupted by the woman, that Enid guessed was one of Eugene’s moms, placing two cups on the counter and saying something to Eugene that Enid couldn’t understand. Although the stern finger pointed towards the register made the meaning pretty clear
“that’ll be you guys” Eugene smiled “one cup of heart palpations and one surprise”
“ha. Ha” Wednesday mocked as she grabbed her monster of a drink and made her way towards a table
“It was really nice talking to you” Enid added on Wednesdays behalf before grabbing her own cup and following after Wednesday. Glancing down at the drink she’d gotten this time around. This one being an iced… something that smelled spiced in a way that was making Enid salivate
“Okay so I have no clue what I’m drinking but it’s delicious” Enid said as she sat down at the table Wednesday had picked. Taking another appreciative sip of her drink
“if it’s Eugene’s other mother’s favorite I believe it’s an iced coffee with their homemade spiced honey syrup” Wednesday replied. Still focused on her own drink which was still cooling down
“…just how often do you come here?” Enid asked “because I’m pretty caffeine addicted but I don’t know much about the local Starbucks Barista’s mom”
“am I on the record?” Wednesday shot back. Definitely smirking as she took a careful sip from her cup
“For the magazine? No” Enid grinned “but I might make an outraged post about it ok my blog. Which has like 20 loyal readers?”
“then I’m afraid I can’t comment on that question” Wednesday said
“Okay no judging the coffee consumption that’s fair” Enid said “then how about you tell me where this practice match of yours is happening?”
“Planning on inviting yourself again?”
“Oh no I was gonna talk Yoko into spying for me” Enid said earning her yet another eye roll from Wednesday. Not that she was keeping count
“how forward thinking of you” Wednesday said looking at Enid over her coffee “and it’s being held at the opposing teams gymnasium. A little bit outside of Lakewood”
“oh then I might actually have to involve Yoko” Enid said pulling a face “I don’t have a car” she expanded as Wednesday raised her eyebrows at the comment
“I do remember you talking about taking the bus” Wednesday nodded
“Yeah now I just gotta find a way to convince Yoko to go to a fencing match” Enid laughed. Already knowing that she was gonna have to throw in some serious bbribes and her best puppy eyes if Yoko was even going to consider it
“You could always ask to borrow her car” Wednesday suggested “If I remember correctly you don’t live too far from the bar she works at?”
“Oh yeah no. Yoko doesn’t let me drive her car. Says I’m too hick for driving in the big city” Enid rolled her eyes. Using her free hand to do quotation marks as she repeated the insult
“you’re not from the city?” Wednesday asked
“oh no I grew up outside San Francisco “ Enid shrugged “Yoko just like calling it rural cause our house was in a patch of forestland my parents own. Which is stupid cause it was like forty minutes outside the city max”
Enid was sure she saw Wednesday’s eyebrows twitch as she mentioned her parents. Although the other girl didn’t make any comment to explain it leaving Enid to wonder. In the end she just wrote it off as a coincidence since she hadn’t exactly told Wednesday anything about her parents. Even if their mention did warrant pulling a face most of the time
“so are you going to learn the competition rules before the match or will I have to explain them to you in between fencing?” Wednesday said after a few seconds pulling Enid from her thoughts
“Oh no I’ll get them memorized. I’ve got a man on the inside an everything” Enid laughed causing Wednesday to shoot na inquisitive look her way. Clearly waiting for her to elaborate to which Enid just shrugged
“a reporter never reveals their sources “ she said more to annoy Wednesday than because she cared about her knowing about Kent. A plan that clearly worked as Wednesday’s look turned into a glare. Much to Enid’s chagrin
They spent the better part of an hour like that. Talking about whatever felt natural. Wednesday complaining about something Puglsey had done the last time she’d been home, while Enid moaned about how Yoko had been poking fun at her recently. Very much leaving out the part where most of Yoko’s jokes revolved around Enid having a crush on Wednesday
When it came time to leave Wednesday quickly excused herself, explaining that it was about time for her to close out her tab for the month. The concept of a tab at a café still foreign to Enid as she watched the shorter girl walk up and speak quietly with Eugene. Who pulled a notepad from somewhere under the counter and leafed through it
Enid was however pulled from her thoughts when Eugene pressed a few buttons on his side of the register making the total pop up on the display. Which Wednesday barely seemed to register as she tapped her card against the machine
“okay sorry but did that say 430 dollars?” Enid exclaimed unable to stop herself due to pure shock
“heh yeah Wednesday’s in here more often than not “ Eugene laughed. Clearly too used to this if paying over 400 dollars for coffee wasn’t garnering a reaction. Enid genuinely couldn’t even remember the last thing she’d spent that much money on. Most of her budget going towards rent and food. Both being expenses her and Yoko split between them
“so I know I said no judging your coffee consumption but just how often are you here?” Enid said turning towards Wednesday who seemed busy shooting a half-hearted glare Eugene’s way
“I come here after practice” Wednesday responded after a few seconds
“after every practice session?” Enid said earning her a raised eyebrow from Wednesday who in all fairness didn’t know that Enid had gotten her hands on their current practice schedule. But seriously coming here four times a week did seem excessive “you didn’t go here the day we did the interview though?” Enid continued after the realization hit her
“we had already spent a significant amount of time talking “ Wednesday shrugged “it would have eaten into my scheduled writing time”
“wow you really have your entire day planned out huh?” Enid said more impressed than anything
“I like my routine” Wednesday shot back a bit quicker than she usually enough. Something Enid recognized all too well as someone defending themselves after having gotten used to being criticized
“it’s kind of cool actually” Enid said trying her best to sound as genuine as possible. Even if Wednesday’s face remained as unreadable as always “so what else do you have planned?”
“various activities such as practice, training and my writing exercises” Wednesday said sounding somewhat unsure at Enid’s sudden interest “as well as scheduling free time to allow for unexpected plans”
“can you maybe teach Yoko to do that?” Enid joked considering how often her roomie managed to forget… well everything actually “though what’s the difference between training and practice?” Enid asked as they walked back out into the cold outside
“Practice is Weems torturing us all for hours on end while training is my less gruelling gym regiment”
“You go to the gym?” Enid asked so shocked that she full on stopped in the middle of the sidewalk “doesn’t Weems already have you guys running four practice sessions a week?”
This time Wednesday’s expression turned downright suspicious and Enid realized she had to be more careful or she’d end up outing her source. Which she wasn’t sure how Wednesday would react to considering her current feud with Bianca. And Kent’s obvious connection to the girl
“yes” Wednesday said luckily not pushing the issue further “which is also why I limit myself to going once per week when Weems is this focused on getting us into competition shape”
“still that’s … a lot” Enid sighed trying to fathom how someone managed to work out that much. Especially since she’d actually considered herself generally active with her occasional runs
“I like keeping in shape” Wednesday deadpanned as she waited for Enid to catch up before they continued their walk back towards the parking lot “besides my routine is basically cardio and some basic exercises”
“I’ve seen what Weems puts you guys through. I wouldn’t even be able to move afterwards” Enid laughed even though it was properly true. Even if you disregarded the beating she’d receive if she tried participating in any fencing exercises with anyone from the club.
“if you want you’re welcome to join me to see my regiment” Wednesday offered catching Enid mid laugh so she almost choked on her own spit “since you’re apparently worried that I’m pushing myself too hard”
“wait really?” Enid asked not sure how the conversation had suddenly turned into her being invited to work out with Wednesday. Which while awesome was also something Enid was genuinely worried she might not survive
“Of course” Wednesday deadpanned “I had planned on going on Monday if that works for you?”
“uhm yeah sure. I have work but I’m free after. Although I can probably leave a bit earlier if I say I’m meeting up with you”
“I’m beginning to think you’re using me as an excuse to get paid for going to cafés” Wednesday smirked
“oh definitely no comment” Enid laughed again the two of them continuing to shoot back and forth as they made the trip back to Wednesday’s car. Wednesday promising to call Enid with the exact address of her gym before Monday so they could meet up. Enid waving slightly as the other girl turned out of the parking lot, before making her own way towards the bus stop
“okay so let me get this straight “ Yoko said while Enid was currently halfway inside the other girl’s closet throwing various items of clothing out over her shoulder “you use your day off to commute halfway across town to have coffee with this girl. Which is super gay by the way”
“the two of us have coffee all the time and pretty sure we aren’t in love” Enid said not getting out of closet as she did so. Too focused on finding something useable
“oh no honey I appreciate it but you’re so not my type” Yoko joked drawing an eye roll from Enid, even if she couldn’t see it
“Yoko” Enid warned in response
“okay okay “ Yoko sighed “but you go have coffee with gothgirl and somehow end up with an invitation to the gym which means you’re rooting through my closet why?”
“because” Enid sighed as she pulled out yet another holed shirt from some band whose name she couldn’t even pronounce “I need something to wear to the gym and all I have is my high school gym uniform. Which is… just no”
“Don’t you go running in that thing?”
“Yeah with a windbreaker over the top most of the time” Enid sighed “it says touch the beaver across the chest for crying out loud”
“always thought that was a weird mascot choice for a school located in a state without beavers “ Yoko mumbled mostly to herself
“not the point Yoko” Enid said finally sticking her head out from the pile of clothes to shoot the other girl and exasperated look
“Okay okay jeez. Touchy” Yoko said stil clearly poking fun at Enid “and get out of there. I have a tanktop and a pair of leggings that got sent as the wrong size laying around here somewhere. That oughta fit your tiny butt”
“and you waited until to tell me that why?” Enid said slowly crawling out of the closet and getting back on her feet
“Because it was funny watching you digging through my shit?” Yoko smirked earning her another glare from Enid “and also because I lost a pair of pants that make my ass look great in there a couple of weeks ago”
“You’re unbearable” Enid groaned kicking some of the clothes she’d strewn across the floor back towards the closet
“oh but you still want me drive for two hours so you can watch your new best friend play with sticks” Yoko pouted
“oh she’s not my new best friend you baby” Enid shook her head at the dramatic reaction “and it’s not like you’re doing anything else”
“uhm, sleep?” Yoko shot back
“You can sleep at the competition” Enid suggested
“Oh yeah because people smacking metal sticks against one another isn’t gonna be noisy as fuck”
“I’ve seen you sleep at a metal concert that you dragged me to” Enid said ND considered the argument won when Yoko just pulled a face rather than dispute her claim “now were are those tights? And I swear if it's the ones you sent me a picture of that has eat me written across the ass”
Yoko’s silence spoke volumes
The longer Enid spent anxiously waiting in the lobby the more she was convincing herself that this entire thing was a terrible idea
She’d arrive a little over fifteen minutes ago. Her and Wednesday agreeing on a time the day before when Wednesday had called to give her the address. But every minute she’d been standing there felt like an eternity. People walking by clearly giving her the stink eye. On top of the fact that this place seemed so out of Enid’s price range or was ridiculous. Like the fitness center had an honest to God lobby before their actual reception. And there was a fountain in here?
At this point Enid would probably have bailed if it hadn’t been for the fact that Wednesday didn’t own a freaking cellphone. No way for Enid to shoot her some lame excuse before ditching. In other words no way for her to not be there when Wednesday showed up without it being incredibly rude and awkward.
Enid was just about to pull out her phone to check the time again when a well known black apparition stepped into her peripheral
“Enid” Wednesday spoke glancing towards her “I apologize for the delay. I underestimated how bad traffic would be”
“Oh no it’s fine. I really haven’t been waiting long” Enid laughed. And in Wednesday’s defence Enid had gotten here early out of fear that she’d be late if she didn’t
“Shall we then?” Wednesday inclined her head towards the glass doors that led to the fitness center proper. Although there was apparently an elevator between here and there as far as Enid had been able to tell from glancing in there while waiting
“Sure” Enid smiled towards the other girl. Despite still feeling anxious about both the entire plan and her ability to keep up with Wednesday’s fitness Regiment
Enid’s suspicions that this place was high class were quickly confirmed the further in they went. After taking an elevator a few floors up the two of them stepped into what looked more akin to the fitness centers that Enid was used to. Although the entire place had a minimalistic sheen to it that Enid had no doubt screamed money
This was in no way helped by the fact that the receptionist was prepping what looked like small glasses of cucumber water, served in actual glassware, when Wednesday walked up and informed her that she was bringing a guest with her today. Providing the girl behind the counter with her last name as well as a card that Enid guessed would normally open the automatic gates that separated the reception from the rest of the gym. This time they were instead let in by the receptionist after she’d handed Enid a small embroidery knapsack that contained what Enid was pretty sure was a towel
“are you alright?” Wednesday asked as they made their way down a set of stairs towards the locker rooms. Evident by the warm and perfumed smell emanating from below “you look shell-shocked”
“nono I’m fine” Enid giggled still taking in the room “this place is just fancier that I’m used to. The last gym I was in was a fitness world so”
“I suppose this place is rather premium “ Wednesday mused as she followed Enid’s line of sight around the room “I mostly use it because my uncle recommended a personal trainer who works here”
“you have an uncle?” Enid asked. The tidbit of information about Wednesday managing to pull her focus away from their surroundings
“yes on my father’s side” Wednesday explained “although he travels a lot so I rarely see him”
“Bummer. But he recommended this place?”
“He actually recommended his old pal Antonio” Wednesday half smiled at the memory “who turned out to have been employed here since my uncle last spoke to him. He’s however shown to be worth the membership fees so I still come here”
“I mean if you’ve got the mo- oh you’ve gotta be kidding me” Enid exclaimed having been suddenly distracted as they walked into the locker rooms and she saw that there was and honest to God chandelier hanging from the ceiling. The thing was hardly extravagant, conforming to the same minimalistic principle as the rest of the place, but it was still huge, silver and suspended from the domed ceiling via a chain.
“I admit that thing is rather over the top” Wednesday said also looking up at the light fixture
“you think so?” Enid laughed as she continued into the locker room. Stopping as she reached one of the many rows of lockers. Glancing at them trying to figure out both which one she as supposed to choose, and how she was supposed to operate the things since they didn’t seem to have a traditional lock on them
“there should be a key fob in the bag you got” Wednesday said as if she was reading Enid’s mind “once you’ve placed your stuff in the locker you hold the fob up to the lock and press the red button. Then when you need to get back in it’s the same process except you press the green one”
“ah yeah that makes sense” Enid mumbled trying to handle both of bags while also rooting through the knapsack she’d received.
“you should be able to use any locker in the first three rows. Anything beyond that is their larger locker which are reserved for premium members” Wednesday continued glancing amusedly at Enid trying to balance everything in her hands “I was thinking we’d meet up under the overpriced chandelier once we’re both ready?”
“sure that works” Enid agreed wondering ever so slightly why they weren’t just changing together before her unspoken question was answered as Wednesday started walking towards the lockers. Entirely bypassing the first three rows before turning into one of the ones further back. Enid rolling her eyes before making her way into the nearest row of lockers. It being significantly easier to sort through the knapsack after she’d placed it on the bench there
The knapsack turned out to be rather more kitted out than Enid had first anticipated. On top of the towel she’d already felt in there, and the key fob Wednesday had mentioned, there was a small selection of soap, conditioner and lotion, all bearing the logo of the gym, as well as a pair of shower slippers.
All of it certainly made Enid widen her eyes with how extravagant this place was as she started peeling off her clothes before pulling the stuff she’d borrowed from Yoko from her bag
Quickly putting on the various pieces of clothing Enid paused as she reached the tights. Seriously regretting not pestering Yoko for some other pair even if they’d been a bit long on her. But considering she could hardly do any exercises in the jeans she’d arrived in Enid had to take a deep breath before biting the bullet and put the damned things on and sitting down to tie her sneakers
As Enid made her way back out she almost had to stop dead in her tracks as she was met by the sight of Wednesday already waiting for her underneath the chandelier. The sports bra and shorts she was apparently using for her workout clothes leaving far too little to Enid’s imagination
Calling Wednesday buff definitely wouldn’t be the correct term considering how overall tiny the girl was. But there was definitely no arguing that the girl had muscles with the way her skin seemed pulled tight over defined calf muscles, or the way there was a definite hint of abs rippling under her skin as Wednesday bounced in place
Wednesday’s gaze swept over the room landing on Enid making her immensely grateful she’d managed to start walking again rather being caught staring at the other girl from the other side of the room
“I didn’t know you listened to deathmole” Wednesday said as Enid approached. Nodding towards Enid’s chest as she pulled a confused face at the comment
“oh no I borrowed this from Yoko” Enid laughed glancing down at the shirt. Wondering how in the world Wednesday had been able to read the damn thing considering she herself hadn’t even realized there were letters on it
“she has impressive taste then. I might have to reconsider my opinion of her” Wednesday mused as they walked back up towards the gym. Fully refusing to elaborate on what said opinion might be, no matter how much Enid pestered her to explain
Making their way into the gym area Wednesday insisted that they began with stretching before they moved on to anything else. Which Enid agreed to thinking it sounded pretty smart. Before it turned out that Wednesday’s definition of stretching was asking Enid to bend in ways that humans weren’t supposed to. Before flawlessly demonstrating the exercise flawlessly when Enid pointed this fact out
All in all the whole ordeal left Enid sweatier than she was supposed to be and definitely feeling a bit self-conscious about how she wasn’t as in shape as she’d thought. At least not compared to the freaking fencing and acrobatics extraordinaire in front of her. Wednesday however made no comment on the issue and instead was only surprisingly helpful. Offering gentle advice for how Enid was supposed to place her feet, or altering the exercises so they were more doable to her. All in all being a perfect saint compared to Enid who was internally uttering the worst curses she knew about how much her calves were burning from holding the latest position
After what Wednesday had the audacity to call a light bit of stretching, she asked Enid if she wanted to join on the treadmills as she usually did running for her cardio. Enid happily agreed, after catching her breath, thinking that she at least knew she could run without making a fool of herself
Which she thankfully seemed to be right about as they both stepped onto their own treadmills and started a steady jog next to one another. Wednesday seeming laser focused on the matter at hand while Enid kept stealing glances towards the other girl. Telling herself it was to check that she was till keeping up, and not to check out the way her legs flexed with every step, or how the sweat ran down her sides. Both qualities that Enid hadn’t even begun to notice
Enid’s ability to keep up was however short lived as Wednesday soon began to pick up speed at a remarkable pace. Enid quickly realizing that the other girl had in fact set the treadmill to some sort of interval program. Wednesday’s expression remained unchanged despite the fact that she was breaking out into a full sprint for a short duration before slowing back down to a jog. The entire process repeating itself a few minutes later. Leaving Enid feeling like she was falling behind again as she slowly increased her own speed in an effort to minimize it. Even if her legs were screaming in protest.
A while later Wednesday’s treadmill made a small series of happy sounds before the slowly starting to ramp down. Wednesday slowing to a walk before stopping completely. Enid quickly pressing the stop button on her own machine and happily placing her feet off to the side. Taking in heavy breaths as the sweat dripped from the forehead and down to the slowing belt. Beside her Wednesday had definitely worked up a sweat but was other than that not showing any signs of fatigue. Other than maybe breathing a bit harder through her nostrils as she stepped off the treadmill. Which was only more impressive as Enid glanced up at the treadmill’s screen and saw that she’d ran further than she’d done all year
“I’m… gonna need a minute” Enid gasped as she stepped off the treadmill. Steadying herself against her own knees patiently waiting for her heart to stop trying to escape her chest
“take your time” Wednesday said standing over her so close that Enid essentially got a faceful of abs as she glanced up making her hurriedly glance back at her own feet “to be fair I’m not sure whether the next part of my regiment is suited for your participation”
“oh no don’t worry” Enid breathed “I’m fine with just watching. What are you doing?”
“Taekwondo” Wednesday said if that was a perfectly normal thing to be doing at a public gym. Not reacting to the disbelieving look Enid was shooting up at her
“you do taekwondo?” Enid asked slowly getting back upright “here?”
“yes. It’s the specialty of the personal trainer I mentioned earlier. He teaches martial arts aimed towards modern self-defense”
“your gym is seriously out of this world you know that right?” Enid scoffed at the way Wednesday clearly seemed to be enjoying how crazy Enid found the situation
“I’ve been told” Wednesday smirked before inclining her head and leading the way towards another part of the gym. Opening a door that lead into a smaller secluded room with bars mounted along the walls as well as various gym equipment being strewn about the place
“he should be here shortly” Wednesday said as she walked over to one of the walls. Depositing her towel and water bottle there. With Enid following suit except she also let herself fall to the floor and leaned against the walls. All the running catching up with her as her legs started to feel ever so slightly like jelly. Wednesday choosing to remain standing smirking down towards Enid who just rolled her eyes in response. Having given up on pretending like the workout hadn’t left her exhausted as shit. If she was gonna be out of shape she might as well own it
Just like Wednesday had said it wasn’t long before the door opened again and what Enid could only describe as a true monster of a man stepped into the room greeting Wednesday as he did so. The two of them clearly knowing each other
“Stamos” Wednesday greeted the man before she gestured towards Enid who waved weakly from her spot on the floor “this is Enid. She’ll be spectating today and if time permits I’d like to run through some of the basics with her later”
The man, Stamos apparently, merely nodded along agreeing to the terms that Wednesday proposed. Afterwards he started talking about where they left off last week and Enid admittedly zoned out. Content enough with merely watching as the two of them walked around the room, Wednesday donning a pair of small gloves while Stamos pulled out a punching dummy and some pads with straps on them
Admittedly there was a certain enjoyment in watching Wednesday and Stamos move around the room. The current exercise seeming to revolve around Stamos trying to corner Wednesday while the shorter girl had to prevent him from doing so. The whole thing being complicated by Stamos both demanding that Wednesday kick and jab at him while also having her dodge and block various hits from himself. It soon dawned on Enid that Wednesday’s almost unnatural ability to step around and avoid people likely stemmed from here rather than from her fencing. Although Enid definitely recognized the same explosive speed that she’d seen the shorter girl use on the piste. Kicks and jabs being thrown so quick that they seemed to surprise even Stamos now and then.
The two of them moved on to other exercises after a while of Wednesday getting changed around the room. These being generally stationary and focusing more on Stamos instructing Wednesday on how to do a particular move and the two of them practicing it until he was seemingly satisfied. It was clear there was some sort of connection between the various moves with Stamos instructing Wednesday in chaining them together and which situations they were best suited for. Most of that was however lost on Enid who was just focused in watching Wednesday move and the tingly feeling she got in her stomach whenever the short girl threw a kick high enough that it could have nailed Stamos in the face
It didn’t feel like she’d been sitting there for more than a few minutes when Wednesday and Stamos were suddenly exchanging a few quiet words before touching fists and Stamos started packing up some of the equipment while Wednesday and turned and indicated for Enid to come closer
“you up for some more?” Wednesday asked as Enid walked up to her. A wicked curve to her lips making Enid ever so slightly worried about what she had planned
“of course” Enid beamed doing her best to stay optimistic “just… don’t make me run anymore please?”
“I’ll keep the running to a minimum” Wednesday scoffed. Taking off her gloves and handing them to Enid before she walked over to pick up the pads that Stamos had dropped when the two of them had finished
“What exactly is it we’re doing?” Enid asked while pulling the gloves on. Having enough forethought to know that Wednesday probably didn’t want her to just hold them
“I’m teaching you to throw a punch. Every woman should know how. Especially one who uses public transport regularly” Wednesday said as she pulled the training dummy closer to the middle of the room. Moving the thing with surprisingly little effort despite how heavy it had looked earlier when she’d been beating on it
“Hey I can take care of myself” Enid protested “I’ll have you know that Yoko’s moving in present for me was maze”
“my opinion of her continues to improve” Wednesday said her tone halfway to teasing which Enid had learned was just how she sounded when she tried to crack a joke “nonetheless it’s useful to know how to defend yourself in a situation where you can’t use weapons like that”
“I wasn’t saying no” Enid rolled her eyes “just wanted it on the record that I’m not completely helpless”
“Consider it noted” Wednesday deadpanned “now come over here so we can get started”
Enid shook her head at Wednesday’s snarl but did as she was told. Placing herself in front of the dummy which Wednesday was busy adjusting until it was only slightly taller than Enid
“okay square your hips” Wednesday said walking around the dummy and stopping next to Enid who did her best to comply with the request. Taking a stance she was pretty sure resembled what Wednesday had been doing earlier. Obviously she didn’t get it exactly right as Wednesday started tapping Enid’s feet with her own until Need adjusted herself accordingly. Wednesday even grabbing at Enid’s waist and lowering her ever so slightly. Seemingly happy with effort after that
“Now throw a punch at him” Wednesday said nodding towards the dummy “slowly”
“I thought you were teaching me how to throw a punch?” Enid teased shifting her focus towards the other girl. Something that was quickly berated as Wednesday readjusted Enid into the same stance as she had been in before
“I am but I need to see what you’re doing wrong before I can correct it” Wednesday said as she pushed Enid back down
“Rude” Enid scoffed but she still did as she was told and slowly extended her arm until she made contact with the jaw of the dummy. Doing the best to imitate how to shed actually punch someone just in slow motion
And sure enough her hand had barely touched the dummy before Wednesday’s own hands were grabbing at Enid’s wrist and arm. The other girl getting so close that Enid started to notice the smell of leaves and pepper flowing from her, ever so lightly masked by the salty scent of fresh sweat
“you’ve got make sure to extend your hand” Wednesday said squeezing Enid’s wrist which she had indeed straightened out “otherwise you’re going to end up with a broken hand the first time you try and punch someone”
Enid pulled a face at the image
“exactly” Wednesday responded clearly noticing Enid’s wince “you’ll also want to be careful about how much power you hot people with if you’re aiming for their jaw. If it's an emergency it’s of course better to hit first and think about that later but generally you’ll want to try and not fracture anythin”
“Sounds pretty reasonable” Enid joked exchanging a light smile with Wednesday before the shorter girl continued her lesson
“now try again” Wednesday said letting Enid throw another slowmo punch at the dummy. Although this time she opted to guide Enid through the motion. Which while it was probably beneficial in theory it did have the unfortunate side effect that Enid was so focused on not reacting to Wednesday’s fingers running gently along her side and bicep that she wasn’t really registering any of the advice that Wednesday was offering with each adjustment
It wasn’t long before Wednesday let her throw a few actual punches at the dummy. Although she repeatedly warned her not to out too much force behind it. Plus they quickly moved over to Enid punching the pads strapped to Wednesday’s hands. Wednesday saying there was less chance that Enid would end up hurting herself that way. Which Enid took offense to and made sure to put a bit of extra force behind the next few punches aimed towards Wednesday. Not that the girl seemed to notice
Once Wednesday was happy with Enid’s ability to throw a punch they moved onto what Wednesday referred to as other basic necessities which generally involved how to get out of various grips or the proper way to kick out after someone’s legs if they were holding onto you. The latter of which seemed pretty violent to Enid despite how much Wednesday swore to it’s effectiveness
Byt the end of it Enid was sweaty all over again and she could already feel how her legs were gonna give her hell the next day. But at the moment she was too busy trying to fight her way out from Wednesday’s grip. The other girl having somehow gotten her arm twister behind her and was now offering advice on how Enid could free herself while Enid was more or less just wiggling without following said advice
“You’re impossible “ Wednesday sighed before letting go of Enid’s arms the other girl stumbling forward before turning around with a huge grin on her face
“It worked to get me free though” Enid laughed taking great joy in the way Wednesday rolled her eyes and protested that it most definitely didn’t count
That argument lasted them most of the way down to the locker room with Wednesday insisting that Enid’s “escape” didn’t count while Enid just kept pointing out that she hadn’t tapped out when Wednesday let go of her
Enid’s ability to argue was however more than a bit stunted when they reached the lockers and Wednesday started to peel off her bra as soon as the two of them stepped into the changing area
Enid suddenly decided that the wall was extremely interesting as she half ran over to her own locker to retrieve her own shower supplies before stripping herself. And walking over to the showers. Extremely grateful for the open stalls that offered at least some measure of privacy as the two of them rinsed off. Enid very firmly deciding that the line on perving on her friend should be drawn well before sharing a shower
Luckily the ordeal was short lived and soon enough the two of them were back to arguing with one another as they returned to the reception freshly washed. Enid handing the knapsack back to the receptionist before they made their way back out the automatic gates and out onto the street
“I’m honestly not sure if I’ll be able to walk tomorrow” Enid moaned as they walked back into the street. Her legs already feeling noticeably stiffer than when she’d arrived
“You’ll recover” Wednesday shrugged “and then it’ll be easier next time you do it”
“Anyone ever tell you that you have a really sadistic approach to physical activity?”
“Quite often actually” Wednesday smirked which just caused Enid to shake her head. Because of course she wasn’t the first to point that out. And of course Wednesday had never changed when someone mentioned it
“if you need it I can drive you home?” Wednesday offered when they reached the point where their path naturally diverged. Wednesday having to turn towards the parking garage where she’d left her car. While Enid had to make her way towards the nearest bus stop
“oh nono you don’t have too” Enid laughed holding up a reassuring hand “I’m meeting Yoko for coffee anyhow so it’d be pretty out of your way”
“Only if you’re sure” Wednesday said which Enid responded to with a small nod and a smile
“And if you wish you’re welcome to accompany me another time” Wednesday continued “I quite enjoyed the company “
“Oh another chance to wreck myself trying to keep up with you?” Enid said her voice filled with clearly excessive glee “sign me up”
“as I said you’ll have a much easier time next time around” Wednesday said smirking as Enid groaned at the suggestion
“I’ll think about it” Enid relented after a few seconds. Even though she was pretty sure she’d take Wednesday up on the offer as soon as she could feel her legs again
“that’s all I ask” Wednesday half smiled “but do give Yoko my regards. And be careful on your way there”
“hey don’t worry about me” Enid laughed “I’m a full fledged fighting machine now”
“You wish” Wednesday set shaking her head before the two of them exchanged their final farewells and parted ways. Enid sporting a content smile that lasted her until she met up with Yoko who immediately chose to call her gay when she saw it.