5 Weathervane

The three headed into the quaint downtown area of Jericho. The buildings were all old brick with large glass windows displaying an array of goods. There were several mom-and-pop type shops. Enid skipped along happily in front while Wednesday and Ezra followed behind at a more leisurely pace.

"First stop is the tech store so we can get you a phone, Ezra!" Enid declared excitedly.

Ezra chuckled at her enthusiasm. "That would definitely be helpful. I'm afraid I'm a bit behind on technology."

They entered the tech store and were greeted by rows of gleaming devices. Enid immediately made a beeline for the smartphones and started rattling off features and comparing models. Ezra blinked in bewilderment while Wednesday regarded the scene impassively.

After much debate, Enid finally thrust a phone into his hands. "This is the one! It's got all the latest features but is super user-friendly."

Ezra turned the smooth glass and metal device over in his hands. "Brilliant. Though I haven't the faintest idea how to use it."

Enid laughed. "That's what I'm here for! I'll help you set it up and teach you all about apps and social media."

 Ezra smiled wryly. "Sounds thrilling."

They made their purchase and left the store, Enid already inputting her contact information and downloading various apps onto his new phone.

"There! Now you can reach me anytime," she declared.

"My own personal helpline, how lovely," Ezra teased.

She swatted his arm playfully while Wednesday looked on indifferently.

Their next stop was a clothing store, which was decidedly more in Enid's wheelhouse than his. Ezra eyed the rows of jeans, t-shirts, and jackets uncertainly while Enid flitted around excitedly.

"Oooh, this would look so cute on you!" Enid held up a pink polo shirt.

Ezra grimaced. "Ah, pink isn't really my color."

"No problem! We'll just stick to darker, more muted tones for you," Enid nodded understandingly.

Ezra glanced pleadingly at Wednesday, but she seemed content to lurk near the dressing rooms without intervening.

Enid continued piling clothes into his arms, providing commentary all the while. "This henley is great for a casual look. Oh, and these black jeans would be sleek and versatile."

Ezra eyed the growing stack dubiously. "Please, no fluffy sweaters or odd patterns or anything of the sort."

Enid laughed. "Don't worry, I know your style. Just black, grey, maybe some deep reds and greens. Trust me!"

After what felt like an eternity, Ezra finally emerged from the dressing room laden with shopping bags. Enid clapped excitedly. "You look so sharp!"

Ezra chuckled. "High praise indeed. Thank you for enduring this ordeal with me."

"Anytime!" Enid chirped. "Though we still need to get you some more toiletries and school supplies."

Ezra stifled a groan, earning the slightest quirk of Wednesday's lips.

They managed to secure the remaining essentials without too much fuss. As they left the final shop, the sun hung low in the sky.

"One last stop!" Enid declared. "We have to end our shopping excursion at the Weathervane cafe. It's the hot local spot."

The three of them made their way down the street to the cafe situated on the corner of the main square. Through the window, Ezra could see an array of inviting pastries and coffee drinks. His stomach rumbled, reminding him he hadn't eaten since this morning.

As they reached the entrance, Enid held the door open with a flourish. "After you!"

Ezra grinned and stepped through the doorway, the scent of roasted coffee beans and sugar wafting over him. Wednesday followed silently behind while Enid brought up the rear.

...

Ezra followed Enid and Wednesday into the cozy cafe, the scent of freshly baked goods and coffee enveloping them. His eyes roamed over the warm wooden interior and chalkboard menus as Enid led them to the counter.

"I'll have a pumpkin spice latte," Enid said to the barista, "with extra whipped cream and cinnamon sprinkles!"

Wednesday eyed the menu, her expression inscrutable. "Quad espresso. Over ice."

The barista nodded and turned to Ezra. "And for you?"

"Just a black coffee for me, thanks," Ezra said. He wasn't familiar with many of the elaborate drink options.

As the barista started preparing their order, the espresso machine let out concerning noises, steam hissing as it sputtered and choked. The barista frowned, smacking the side of the machine to no avail.

"Oh no, not again," he sighed. "Sorry everyone, looks like this thing is on the fritz."

Ezra peered at the temperamental machine. "I could take a look, if you'd like?" he offered. Fixing it would be simple enough with a bit of magic.

The barista looked uncertain but nodded for him to try. Ezra then pretended to work on the machine before discreetly withdrawing his wand from his sleeve, tapping the machine under the counter, and murmuring "Reparo."

The espresso machine let out a smooth hum as it returned to working order. Ezra tucked his wand away, satisfied. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Wednesday watching him closely, her dark eyes glinting with interest. He met her gaze steadily.

"There we go, good as new," Ezra said lightly to the relieved barista.

Moments later, they had their drinks in hand and claimed a table by the front windows. Enid immediately dug into the mountain of whipped cream atop her pumpkin latte.

"Mmm this is so good!" she exclaimed. "I love this place."

Ezra took a sip of his simple black coffee, savoring the rich, bitter taste. The warm drink was comforting amidst the chilly late autumn air outside. 

Wednesday sat silently, clutching her icy espresso concoction in both hands. Her focus never wavered from Ezra. He got the sense she was scrutinizing his every move.

"So..." Ezra began, hoping to break the tension. "How long have you been going to Nevermore?"

This prompted Enid to launch into an explanation of her history at the school, while Wednesday continued observing Ezra pensively over her drink.

Their conversation was interrupted by the cafe door chiming open. A group of three boys around their age sauntered in, dressed in rather odd pilgrim costumes complete with buckled hats and shoes. Ezra raised an eyebrow at their peculiar attire.