Hollis Ward's Links
Hollis thinks Deacon is great. There's something magnetic to him, whether it's his grumpy attitude, intense social anxiety, impossible potion talents or the way she thinks he might actually be a small offended cat piloting his body around. She thinks he's very cute while also being an interesting disaster.
Ultimately she likes being around him and would be horrified to know that she intimidates him when she just wants to be an affectionate friend.
Deacon isn't exceptionally close with Hollis, but they're friendly and he knows she's very good at what she does. His effort to remain level-headed around her often lands him with a headache, but something about an intimidatingly competent and attractive woman as his contemporary makes him want to leave... well. A better impression than he leaves on most people, which isn't saying a lot, but it says he has some dignity.
Hollis grew up with a single mother and as such does not have much in the way of family. She tends to be deeply affectionate for whatever friends she gains. Having a student is akin to almost having a daughter or a much younger sister for herself. Even if Helena is too old to be her real daughter.
She greatly enjoys supporting Helena's growth and explorations. She should know herself! She's worth knowing! Hollis has a lot of pride in Helena's learning and is thrilled to bits knowing she's contributing to her growing up.
Helena sees Hollis as something like a super cool hippie aunt, or maybe a fairy godmother? What she's sure of is that Hollis seems super confident and empowered, which earns her admiration. Helena loves getting to learn from her on the few occasions it happens; what she teaches is a lot different from what Deacon does.
Will or has flustered him some February.
Will or has been flustered by her on some February (or any other month).