House of Frank

by Kay Synclaire

When I pull my hand away, my heart sinks at the clump of loose black strands on my fingers. Sighing, I roll up the hair and toss it to the floor. I take off my silk gloves and scrutinize the loose, age-spotted skin on my hands. I flex my achy fingers, the joints clicking. I submerge my hands, and the rest of my body, into the warm water.

Did she try to bring her back and now shes dying faster

“I have no strength, I have no speed. Give me power for what I need.”

Im confused by her power

She doesn’t understand, Fi. I don’t need the wand to help with my enchantments. I can’t make any enchantments without it. But I remain silent, and Oli looks lost⁠—rightfully so.

So shes powerles

wish I could reach through time and prevent this heartache for us both. Marionette doesn’t know where that road leads. She doesn’t know how much it costs to bring someone back, Fi. She isn’t willing to do it. But I am. I did it. I did it for you. Your voice surrounds me like a high melody, blending into a minor chord, and descends into the dark. What did you do, Saika? you ask me. What have you done?

Then again, the use of incantations is an unheard-of practice for a witch. Perhaps this will go unnoticed.

brekkie.

Lol why did this word make me laugh. I don’t usually see it typed out.

But I couldn’t help but choose this wonderful sky blue for you.” “Why’s that?” Hilde smirks at me. “It’s Oli’s favorite color.”

Hehe

She moves to pin the long sleeve of the dress but pauses when she sees the age spot on my skin. I snatch my arm back. “The sleeves are fine, I think.” She looks at me curiously.

My eyes fall on a small portrait sitting on her mantel. My blood runs like ice in my veins. It’s not hanging on her front door like in my dream, but it’s her graduation portrait. She’s grinning widely, looking as if she finally found herself.

Ope

“So, your dream was right about me. Maybe there’s something your other dreams are trying to tell you.”

Oh?

“In her sleep. It was peaceful according to Frank.”

Hmm

I wish he’d understand that when it concerns the future of Ash Gardens, he should include the people of Ash Gardens.” “He doesn’t want you all to worry.” “But that’s what a family does. We worry, but we worry together.”

I stumble to a stop when I notice what’s inside. “Where did you get those?” Morose heaves the basket, hovering with great difficulty. “Frank gave ’em to me.” Bee’s eggs shift in the basket. “Why do you want to know?” he asks.

Wtf Frank

“If she knew I released Bee, she’d never forgive me.” My hand braves the space between us, and I touch Frank’s chest⁠—right over his heart. “Frank, you know that Kye is gone . . . right?”

Until he brings her back

It’s not completely impossible in our line of spell research to come across any works that deal with the entity Death. But only the truly desperate and foolish seek out Death willingly, as we both already know.

I’m surprised she said yes to you.” “I’m not.” Hilde smirks.

Lol

And then it’s only Phil and his dog. Phil’s bright smile is gone in every photo after that. He’s found solace in the crook of his dog’s neck, hugging him tight every time he got his picture taken.

Sobs

“You weren’t fine, Fiona! You needed me!” Your presence fills the room, Fi. You stand beside Frank. Both of you stare at me, mouths slightly agape. Your eyes are fixed on me in an unwavering gaze. I didn’t need you to intervene, Saika, your voice ghosts over me. “I didn’t need you to intervene. You have to understand that,” Frank says calmly.

So confusedd

“It should’ve been longer but calling on Death proved disastrous. Phil used an ancient relic to summon him, but it wasn’t enough power. Death sought more, and he took Phil’s life. And it worked. Kye came back.” He taps his paw on the arm of the chair.

Aw Phil

He sits back in bed, and I help him lift his legs. “Yes, I think that might be for the best. There’s just something . . .” He gazes up at me. “There’s something I need to tell you, but I’m . . . I can’t remember for some reason.”

Something important i bet

He snaps his head up, eyes red and tired. “You didn’t tell them about the star, did you?”

Something is up

And I see you, Fi. But you’re a little girl again. How can that be?

The husband came. Bet that was franks news

“I spoke with the owner yesterday. A fellow named Frank. He said everything would be set.” So, this must be what Frank forgot to tell me. Damn. I can’t turn Jonathan away. He was so happy to see me. I have to see this through.

Vibrant red trim runs along the lapel of her jacket and hem of her pants. I glance down to my red dress then over at Hilde, who smirks at me. “You’re welcome,” she whispers.

The love embedded in it didn’t come from me. It came from her.” “Oh.” I blink, watching her. “Thank her properly.” Hilde winks. “Hilde!” She laughs. “It’s only a suggestion.”

Lmao

“That’s good to hear. Kye and I are happy that you two found each other.” Frank lifts his glass. “To Saika and Oli.” “To Saika and Oli,” everyone cheers. I drink, but I keep my eye on Frank as he talks with Jonathan. Kye and I . . . He’s never referred to Kye in this manner. As if she’s here. As if he’s speaking on her behalf.

“Did he?” he asks, genuinely surprised. He turns back to the window. “I miss that fellow. What did he ever get up to? Do you know?”

The same way that I’ve condemned myself. The same way that Frank has. With the star, he plans on calling Death.

“We know the pain. We know the cost,” I begin. Frank’s eyes widen, realizing what’s happening. “Saika, don’t. I don’t want to leave her.” “Now fully take this star.” I take a deep breath. “And restore what’s been lost.” The star glows hotter, but before its power unleashes, Frank grabs my wrist and presses the star against my chest. “Frank, what⁠—” “Take care of them.”

“When I die, please, do not die with me.”

House of Frank (formerly Ash Gardens).

“Ask for Oli.”

Awww