FSE

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Chapter 4

Meryl sat in the fountain. She sighed softly as she let some of her stored energy flow back into the fountain.

Corrupting the both of them at once was almost too much. Not to mention what Jamie gathered for me. At least I can store the energy here rather than have to burn it off and waste it.

Meryl slowly stood up and let the fluid slowly drip down her body to return to the fountain.

I can feel my pets are awake now, I wonder what they are up to?

***

Jamie let out a long yawn as she made her way into the kitchen. She perked up immediately when she smelled breakfast being cooked. She walked a little quicker to check it out. Bill was sitting at the table reading a newspaper. At first Jamie thought he was completely nude, but the large man had a towel wrapped around his waist.

Bill looked over his paper, “Morning, Jamie”

“Good morning.” Jamie smiled as she sat in a chair across from Bill.

“Good morning cutie,” Valerie called from over by the stove.

Valerie was dressed in nothing but an apron as she cooked up breakfast. From the side Jamie could see a lot of side boob from her upper pair, but the lower pair were completely covered. Valerie's tail swished back and forth across her rear as she shifted bacon around on the skillet.

“How do you want your eggs?”

“I, uh, was just going to grab a bowl of cereal.”

“Oh you need more than just a bowl of cereal after last night, hon.”

“She's right,” Bill said as he poured a bowl of cereal for Jamie and himself, ”it's only part of a complete breakfast.”

“Heh, didn't figure you as a marshmallow cereal kind of guy.”

“When I was a kid it came out and I never stopped eating it.”

“That's the truth,” Valerie shook her head, “I tried to get him to eat adult cereals for years before I gave up. Your eggs, Jamie dear?”

“Ahh, scrambled please.” She said as Bill passed her the milk, “Have you seen Meryl today? She usually joins me for breakfast.”

“No, but her truck is still here,” Bill said in between spoonfuls of cereal.

“Is she still in bed?” Valerie asked as she whisked Jamie’s eggs in a mug.

“I don't sleep,” Meryl said as she opened the basement door. ”Morning everyone,” she walked out into the kitchen proper. She was in her true form, minus her wings, probably so she could wear her black fleece robe, which she left open and unbelted. She walked by Valerie first, running her hand along her shoulder.

“Mmmm, you smell good this morning. Can I get you something: eggs, bacon, me bent over the table?”

“Oh, I am glad I got you,” Meryl gave her a quick kiss, “I was planning on heading back into town to visit the Drip and Perk again.”

“Then I won't bother offering you any coffee, I can't compete with Blake.”

Jamie paused with a spoon halfway to her mouth, “are they still open?”

Bill looked over at the clock on the wall, “It's only a little past eleven, Blake stays open to one or one-thirty depending on the crowd.”

“Ah,” Jamie said before returning to her cereal.

Meryl walked over behind Jamie and rubbed her shoulders, “you did well last night. Besides the wings, how many big tips did you get?”

“Three and a half.”

“How did you give half a blow job?” Valerie asked as she started to plate food.

“One stop was a pair of brothers, I got them both off, but gave them a discount.”

“How thoughtful of you,” she gave Jamie a quick kiss and turned her attention to Bill, “are you just wearing a towel?”

“I don't like to get dressed until after breakfast, and I didn't think to bring my robe with me.” Bill smiled as he shrugged his shoulders.

“Yes well, in the meantime,” she slipped her robe off her shoulders and snapped it. It grew in size to fit Bill's new enhanced size, “Here, take this.”

“Are you sure?” Bill said as he took it.

“It's fine I really should get something a little more...”

“Sexy?” Jamie offered.

“Pretty much, yes,” she leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek, “go ahead and keep it Bill.”

“Thank you,” Bill stood up to put on the robe.

“Aww, now we can't see your boobs Bill,“ Jamie laughed.

“I don't see you showing off yours,” Valerie said as she brought two plates of bacon and eggs to the table.

“Now children, don't fight,” Meryl said in her best teacher voice, “I'll go get changed and head on out.”

***

Meryl parked her truck right in front of the Drip and Perk. There were no other cars parked outside, but she could see at least one table with people in the shop. Meryl paused to check her reflection in the mirror.

Whoops! She looked back at her black-sclera eyes, I almost forgot about that.

Meryl closed her eyes for a moment and when opened they were her old shade of brown. Shaking her head at her own forgetfulness she jumped out of the truck and headed into the Drip and Perk. Blake looked up from changing out a pot of coffee.

“Hey Meryl, welcome back!”

“Morning, Blake,” she walked up to the counter, “not quite as busy as yesterday, is it?”

“That's Sundays for you,” he shrugged, “people do flood in early in the morning, but then it's off to church. Once noon rolls around I'll get a few more people before I close for the day. At least I have the dice crew here,” he motioned to a table with his head.

Five men in their late teens to early twenties sat around the biggest table at the Drip and Perk. Books and notepads were strewn about and they talked softly, occasionally rolling some dice on the table.

“While the rest of the town is either sleeping off Saturday night or in church they come in and play Mazes and Monsters for a couple of hours.”

“How cute,” she gave the players a little wave as she caught them staring at her butt, “you don't mind them?”

Blake shook his head, “nah, I played a little when I was their age. Not to mention they start off buying a dozen doughnuts and buy several pots worth of coffee between them. They are my best Sunday customers. As long as they keep the volume down when arguing over the rules I don't have a problem with them.”

“That's sweet of you.” She smiled honestly at the barista.

“What can I get you today? Another dirty chai?”

“Tempting, but do you have anything else exotic? I am always on the lookout for more adventures for my tongue.”

“I'll bet,” he let out a short laugh, “I've been working on something, not sure if it is ready, or if this town is ready for it for that matter.”

“You have my attention, go on.”

“Do you want the whole story?”

“Why not, I'm not holding up a line.” She said, indicating the mostly empty shop.

“Come and sit at the bar, I'll give you the whole story while I whip one up.”

Meryl hopped up on the fist stool and folded her hands in front of her. “So, what is this tale of coffee experimentation?”

“A few days ago I was shopping at the Boxmart store off the highway.”

Meryl nodded.

“Ever since I was a kid, I can't go to a store and not walk down the candy aisle. As I looked around, something caught my eye,” he reached under the counter and pulled out a large gourmet chocolate bar and pushed it towards Meryl.

“Dark chocolate with chili oil?” she couldn't help licking her lips slightly, “That sounds interesting.”

“That's what I thought too, so I bought a bar and took a bite once I got back to my car. It's so strange but so perfect at the same time.”

“And you thought, why not add coffee?”

“Pretty much,” he paused while running the grinder, “so, I've got this spicy dark chocolate mocha I've been working on.”

“That is right up my alley.”

“I thought it might be,” he smiled back as he loaded the espresso machine, “it's nice to have someone all about exotic experiences in town.”

“Oh,” she rested her chin on her hands, “how do you know it's not just limited to coffee?”

“I have my suspicions.”

Meryl stuck her tongue out and then laughed.

“I am having a few more adventures as of late.” She admitted.

“I heard you have a border now, that delivery boy that works at Tony's.”

“You mean delivery girl, and yes, Jamie has joined my happy little home.”

“Right girl, just a slip of the tongue,” he placed several pieces of chocolate on a hotplate to melt, “I suppose we should say 'delivery person' these days.”

“Or pizza carrier,” her eyes sparkled.

“It sounds better on a resume I'll bet,” he reached into a fridge, “skim, two percent, or whole?”

“What do you think?”

“Whole it is,” he smiled as he pulled out the right container of milk.

Blake made the drink, shaving a few curls of the chocolate on top before handing the tall ceramic mug to her.

“Thank you,” Meryl said before bringing the mug up to her lips.

She inhaled its aroma first before taking a small sip. The taste made her toes almost curl with pleasure.

“Mmm, that is amazing, thank you Blake!”

“That's my job, to satisfy my customers,” he started to clean up. “Can I get you anything else? I think I have a bear-claw left that I baked this morning.”

“You bake your own pastries too?”

“I'm starting to,” he smiled with pride, “the old cafe had a full kitchen in the back and I'd like to make use of it. This was the first batch and everyone seemed to like them.”

“Yeah Blake,” one of the gamers had walked up to get his mug refilled, “you need to make them again next Sunday.”

“Thanks Bruce, I don't know what I will have baked but there will be something home made in the case for you guys.”

There was a chorus of cheers from the other four players.

“Well with that kind of reaction I have to try it now,”

“Let me heat it up for you in the toaster, it's better warm.”

Meryl turned towards Bruce, “you guys having a good game?”

“Yeah,” she could see him getting flustered. It was so cute, “um, but we better pack up before she gets here.”

“Oh,” Meryl tilted her head slightly, “who's she?”

“Alice,” he almost spit it out, “she's one of those losers who goes on about M&M being evil. Worst part is she isn't some gray haired old church-lady, she's like just out of high school I think.”

“Well, Bruce, was it?” he nodded, “there is no minimum age requirement for having a stick up your ass.”

Bruce smiled, “I gotta remember that one,” he took his coffee, “I'll see you around, uh...”

“Meryl, dear.” She smiled sweetly.

“Yeah, see you, Meryl.”

Blake placed a plate with the heated bear-claw on the counter, “Making new friends again?”

“I'm always looking for new friends,” she took a small bite out of the pastry, “mmm, that is good.”

“Thank you, say how did things go with Valerie yesterday?”

“Oh quite well, we patched things up over dinner last night. In fact, she and Bill helped me find another two borders for my place, they should start moving in today.”

“Bill and Valerie usually pop in on Sundays, I didn't see them today. I hope they didn't party too hard with you last night.”

“Maybe a little,” Meryl's eyes almost sparkled, “But I think they may be planning on a move.”

“Oh?” Blake paused, a little surprised to hear the news.

“Yeah, after selling the house to me they decided to retire.”

“Where to?”

Meryl shrugged, “I heard mention of Florida or perhaps RVing across the country.”

“Huh, strange I figured they would be the kind of people to live out their lives here.”

“You know how it is, shifting your perception can be a powerful thing.”

“Well, be sure to tell your new borders about the Drip and Perk.”

“Oh, I'm sure they will stop by.”

The door opened behind Meryl and she turned to look. In stepped a rather severe looking young woman. She was in a simple black dress that fell well past her knees, stopping just above her “sensible” shoes. She wore a dark gray sweater over her top and a large gold cross hanging on a chain around her neck. Her blonde hair was pulled back into a tight ponytail. At first she started towards the counter, but then she caught sight of Bruce and his friends talking as they packed up their gear.

As a demon who feeds off of emotions and corruption, Meryl was keenly aware of just how angry this young woman was before she even opened her mouth to start yelling at the boys.

“Shit,” she heard the largest of the five curse as the woman, who must be Alice stormed over to their table.

“You evil devil worshiping heathens!”

Meryl shook her head. Her access to demonic knowledge let her know the truth. Back in the 1980s the whole “Satanic Panic” was actually started by some chaos demons as a joke; to see how far humans would take it. Even after all these years the remnants of it still pop up among the so-called religious.

“How dare you just flaunt your wickedness wherever you please!”

“It's a public place, we can play here if we want!”

“And the game isn't evil, you uptight bitch!”

“Of course it is! It corrupts young minds with the fantasy of being powerful while enslaving you to evil!”

“Look, we're leaving already, get out of our way!” Bruce pushed past her as he went to the door with his friends.”

“Forsake these lies for the truth!” Alice called after them as they walked out the door.

“Alice,” Blake's voice had a warning tone, “what have I told you about harassing my customers?”

“But don't you see what they were doing here?”

“Alice, I'm not going to tell you what to believe but you can't keep going after every gamer or person looking at an objectionable website on their phone, or -”

“Blake, please, your soul is at risk as well.”

“My soul is quite fine, thank you,” he crossed his arms, “now before you open your mouth again, I'm going to tell you you are about five words away from me banning you from my coffee shop, so pick the next things you say very carefully.”

Alice flushed and looked away from Blake's gaze, “large white chocolate latte, please.”

“You chose the right five words, have a seat.”

Alice sat on the stool next to Meryl. As she waited on her drink she played with the gold cross around her neck.

I don't feel anything coming from the necklace, Meryl thought as she sipped her drink, she is all talk but not a lot of faith to back it up, her mug hid her wicked smile from the world, this could be interesting...

Meryl let her arm “accidentally” brush against Alice's arm.

“Oh, excuse me, didn't mean to bump into you there.” She said with an inviting smile.

Alice dropped the cross and turned to face her, “It's nothing I barely even felt anything.”

“Still, don't want to make a bad impression, I am new in town. I'm Meryl by the way,” she offered her hand.

“Oh, ah, hi Meryl, I'm Alice,” she smiled slightly, “welcome, I didn't know anyone moved into town recently.”

“I'm just on the edge of town. Do you know the old house up on Mountain Road?”

“The old Victorian one?”

Meryl nodded,

“Oh wow, I saw it was for sale but never thought anyone would buy it.”

“I fell in love with the home, it has a lot of character. I've been putting some work into remodeling the interior. Have you ever been inside Double Thirty-seven before?”

“Double Thirty-seven?” She looked a little confused.

“The address is thirty-seven, thirty-seven Mountain Road,” Blake said as he dropped off her latte.

“Oh, I see, thanks, Blake.” she took a sip of her drink, “sorry, I've never been in there. Actually, when I was little I used to think the place had to be haunted.”

Meryl giggled, “I can see that, it was kind of spooky when I moved in the first night.”

“O-oh?”

“But then I realized I was the scariest thing there.”

Alice giggled herself, relaxing her guard a bit.

“If you want to stop by sometime and see the house I'd love to show it off. I'm looking for borders, you see, so I am usually around.”

“Oh, I couldn't move out from home,”

“I didn't mean to imply you should,” she placed her hand over Alice's hand and gave a small squeeze, “but if you ever want to just come up and see what I did to my little scooby-doo house you are welcome there.”

Meryl's hand felt so warm and soft. A part of Alice didn't want the contact to end. Unsure of what to do, she quickly drank her latte. She slowly pulled her hand away and Meryl let her fingers drag against the young woman's hand.

“Nice meeting you, Meryl, but I have to go,” she left money for the drink and tip on the counter and slid off the stool.

“I'll be seeing you around.” Meryl smiled and kept her eyes on Alice until she was through the door.

“What are you planning with that little girl...”

“I don't see a girl, I see a woman with a wicked tongue.”

“You sound like you have a plan for that tongue.”

Meryl just smiled as she drank her mocha.

***

Meryl was sitting in the great room watching the flames in the fireplace. Jamie had left for work and she was waiting on Valerie and Bill to return. She swirled some red wine in her glass.

I know there is something there below the surface, there always is. What do I tempt that rail of a woman with?

She blinked her red on black eyes feeling Valerie and Bill roll back onto the property.

Maybe they know something about Alice...something I can use.

Meryl gulped down her wine and got up off the chair. Her hooves clacked on the hardwood floors as she made her way to the kitchen door. Bill was lugging in a huge box by himself while Valerie pulled along a pair of suitcases.

“There you two are, I was starting to wonder if you two were coming home tonight.”

“Sorry, there's just so much to go through back at the old place.” Valerie closed the door while Bill placed the box on the floor.

“I'm glad you're back, I wanted to ask you some questions about someone I met today.”

“Oh?” Valerie's eyes lit up, “find us another playmate already?”

“Possibly, I met an interesting girl down at the Drip and Perk. A really self-righteous young woman named Alice.”

“Alice, that sounds familiar...” she scratched under her lower pair of breasts.

“She seems to be quite the vocal church goer, if that helps.”

“Alice, isn't that Marty's kid?” He tried to pull down his shirt over his abs, but his rack pretty much made it a midriff, “it sounds like a member of that family.”

“Oh, of course you're right.”

“So,” Meryl's equine ears canted forward, “you know her?”

“From around town,” Bill said as he tried and failed to slip his keys into his front pocket, “we went to school with her dad, Marty. Man, did he change after school.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah,” Bill shook his head, “back in high school, Marty was the top horndog.”

“Heh, that's being generous,” Valerie paused to pull off her shirt, “ Marty was a man-slut and would fuck any girl with a pulse.”

Bill laughed, “I wish we had thought of calling him that back in the day!”

“So,” Meryl couldn't help but smile, “how did he end up with such a straight laced Bible-thumping daughter?”

“Well Marty liked to party almost as much as he liked pussy,” Bill reached down to pick up Valerie's discarded shirt and his jeans split up the back, “driving back home with a few too many in him one night he went off the road, wrecked pretty bad.”

“Yeah, I think a lot of people were surprised that Marty survived, let alone made a full recovery,” Valerie pushed her sweatpants down and shook out her tail, “anyway after that he “found Jesus” and gave up on his party lifestyle. Marty settled down and took over the family business.”

Meryl went over and helped Bill with his clothes, enlarging them and repairing the rips he had caused over the course of moving.

“Thanks,” Bill was able to get his keys back in his pocket, “Marty runs the hardware store in town, and he married Jane, the nurse who took care of him in the hospital. They had Alice a little late in life and if I remember right they home schooled her.”

“Yeah, her home, church, and that hardware store are pretty much all she knows.” she shook her head, “I think Marty was afraid of letting any boys near her, given the man he was.”

“Sounds like she could use a little time away from mommy and daddy then,” Meryl flicked her tail, that's what I can use on her, freedom from the life her father has forced on her.

“You'd be doing Alice a favor even if you don't make her a pet,” Valerie pulled her apron off a peg on the wall, “feel like any dinner tonight Meryl?”

“Hmmm, well,” a smile slowly spread showing off her sharp teeth, “I could go for you bent over the table, if that is still on the menu.”

“For you,” she tossed her apron on a chair, “always.”

***

Meryl had no problem finding the hardware store. At one time, it had been a simple storefront on Main Street. But Marty had kept up with the times. He must have bought the surrounding lots and expanded into a larger warehouse style shop. He may not be quite as large as the big guys but could certainly meet the needs of his community.

Meryl parked her car and walked through the old storefront Marty had preserved. The old fashioned bell jingling overhead made her smile.

“Hello!” she heard Alice's voice before she saw the young woman come around the corner, “Oh, Meryl!” she smiled softly, “I didn't expect to see you so soon.”

“I'm working on my house, I was going to end up here eventually,” Meryl smiled as she walked over to her, “I didn't know you worked here.”

“Oh, my family owns the place, I practically grew up here,” she ran a hand lovingly along the top of a shelf, “What can I help you with today?”

“I'm redoing one of the bedrooms for potential borders. So I need paint and supplies to do the job.”

“Let's get you started with the paint then.”

Meryl took her by the hand,“lead the way.”

Alice had the dear in the headlights look for a moment, but she didn't try and pull her hand away. She blinked, swallowed and managed a shaky smile. She led Meryl by the hand into the warehouse section of the store. Alice worked with Meryl on picking out primer and top coat. She even had suggestions on color choice. As they talked she grew more relaxed and accepting of Meryl brushing against her or touching her arm and back.

“You've been a big help,” Meryl smiled as she placed the paint cans in her cart.

“It's no trouble, that's what I'm here for, shall we get you set up with rollers and brushes?”

“We better, otherwise I'll have to finger-paint my way through it.” Alice giggled, and Meryl suspected she didn't get to do that very often, “I just wish I could find some help with this. I can't very well ask my borders for a hand with the painting and I don't know anyone in town well enough to ask.”

“I know some of the contractors around town,” Alice offered.

“Oh, I'm sure you do, but I'm just looking for someone to lend a hand so I can knock out this room a little quicker. I'm willing to pay and I'll even throw in a lunch.”

Dad was saying something about charging me rent now that I'm finished with school, maybe I could do some jobs like this on the side to help cover that.

Meryl could see the wheels turning in the blonde girl's head, but kept her face blank as she inspected some rollers.

“You don't want those,” she pulled a different pack off a rack, “go for these. Yes, they are a little bit more, but the paint goes on much easier.”

“Thanks, you really know your way around these things.”

“Well, I don't have any brothers so I was always the one helping dad work on the house.”

“Would you like to give me a hand? How does fifty dollars and a free lunch sound?”

“I work most days, but if you don't mind switching it to a free dinner I could help you any evening, um, except Sunday, of course.”

“Of course, how about tomorrow, when do you get off?”

“At five, so I can probably get there around...five-thirty?”

“That works for me,” she took the rollers from Alice, “so, what else will we need for tomorrow?”

***

“So...you are going to seduce her by painting a room with her?” Jamie asked as she snuggled against Valerie on Meryl's bed.

“It's just an excuse to get her here,” Bill said as he climbed in next to Jamie, “like how she invited Valerie and me over.”

“It's a little of both, really,” Meryl stretched out her wings fully before approaching the bed, “yes, it does get her here where my powers are greatest, but also I think some time talking while working will open her up.”

“So you are planning to actually paint a room with her?”

“Why not?” Meryl climbed onto the bed slowly, eyeing each of her pets like a predator, “with any luck it will be her room anyway. Now, who shall be my appetizer tonight...”

***

Even as sheltered as Alice was, she knew how to find Meryl's house. She turned off Main onto Mountain Road. Her father liked the idea of her making a little extra money by helping out Meryl. Maybe, like her father suggested, she could even talk her into coming to church next Sunday.

It would be nice to sit next to someone closer to my age for a change.

Alice pulled into the drive for the house. Growing up in the area it seemed strange to see light coming out of the widows of the old home. Strange, yet inviting. Alice parked her car behind Meryl's pick-up. She grabbed her bag with some old clothes to paint in and exited the car. Alice pulled her jacket closed; winter was on its way and a cold wind blew off the mountain. But the old house almost seemed like a beacon of warmth in the cold night. She hurried up to the door and knocked.

Through the window, she saw Meryl come around a corner and head to the door smiling. She was wearing a tattered pair of cutoff jeans and an old three-quarter sleeved shirt with a very distressed college logo on the front. Meryl opened the door wide.

“It's a chilly one tonight! Come on in, it's warm inside.”

Her smile pulled Alice inside as much as the promise of warmth. Meryl closed the door and took her guest's jacket from her. Alice, meanwhile, was taking in the grandeur of Meryl's home.

“Wow, this is what it looks like...”

“Well, I have been working on it a bit,” Meryl hung up her jacket on a peg, “Are you going to paint in those clothes?”

“Oh no,” Alice shook her head, “I came straight from work,” she held up her bag, "I brought a change with me, mind if I get changed?”

“Of course, let me show you a bathroom you can use.” Meryl placed her hand on the small of Alice's back and led her towards the stairs.

“I bet it won't take you long to get a home like this full of borders.”

“Well, it's my second week and I have three so far,” they started up the stairs, “Know of anyone looking for a room?”

Alice shook her head, “most of the people I know at church already have their own places.”

“What about friends your own age? Anyone looking to move out of their parent's house.”

“Sorry, I, I don't really have any friends my own age.”

Meryl watched as Alice's shoulders sagged and her face fell.

“I'm sorry, maybe I can help you with that, after all I'm only a few years older than you.”

Alice smiled weakly, “I'm still just a kid though.”

“How old are you exactly?”

“I just turned nineteen last month.”

“That makes you an adult you know.”

“Dad says I'm still a kid.”

“He's your father, you could be fifty and you'd still be a kid to him.”

Alice laughed softly, “Yeah, probably.”

“Here we are,” Meryl gestured to the second floor bathroom, “I'll be waiting in that room,” she pointed to an open door, “when you're ready.”

“Thanks, I'll be right out,” she opened the door and flipped on the lights.

Alice almost forgot to close the door behind her as she stared at the room. Marble tile lined the floor and continued halfway up the walls. In front of the large window at the end of the room a large clawfoot cast iron bathtub sat with brass fixtures gleaming from the overhead light. The basin and toilet were vintage like the tub with matching fixtures. In a corner there was a glass enclosed shower stall, even though it was of a modern design, its brass fixtures helped it blend in.

On the same wall as the shower there was a small linen closet, pegs for holding robes and clothing and a full length mirror. Alice stared at herself in the mirror.

Could you imagine living here? She asked herself.

Alice glanced over to the tub. She thought about what it would feel like to take a bath right in front of that window. Her body naked except for soap suds as she soaked and watched the trees on the mountainside sway in the wind. She shook her head to chase away the naughty thoughts.

“This body is only for me and my husband to see,” she whispered her father's words to herself.

Still, who would see me? Up on the second floor, this window doesn't even face the road...Stop it, Just get changed!

She kicked off her shoes and tried to focus on the job she was here to do. She started to unbutton her flannel shirt. As she did so, she turned back to the full length mirror. She didn't have one at her home. There were mirrors in the bathroom, and she had one above her dresser, but nothing she could see her whole body in. She paused as the last button was undone.

It's just me in the mirror, like it always is, why does it feel so strange.

Alice slipped the shirt off her shoulders and hung it on one of the pegs. Stepping back she looked at the off-white “granny bra” she was wearing. She hated wearing this bra. There were modest options out there that didn't make her look like an old woman but her parents wouldn't allow it. Sighing she moved to her high-waist jeans. They slid down over her slim hips easily leaving her in the matching “granny panties”.

Making a face at her ugly lingerie she reached for her bag and quickly covered them up with an old pair of jeans with ripped out knees and a faded blue tee-shirt that already had a few spots of paint on it. She sat on the toilet and laced her black work shoes back on. Alice took one last look at her reflection before leaving the bathroom.

“Hey there,” Meryl said as she adjusted a drop cloth, “I was just about to check on you.”

“Yeah, sorry,” she rubbed the back of her head, “I was just distracted by your bath.”

“You should see the one on the third floor.” Meryl said with a grin as Alice helped her finish with the drop cloth.

“O-oh?” Alice almost missed the pan as she poured out the primer.

“That one has the big tub,” she winked and Alice felt her cheeks flush.

“Although I think the second floor bath has a better view,” Meryl dipped her roller in the pan, “it should be amazing the next time the leaves change color.”

“Or when everything is blanketed in snow,” Alice rolled out the primer on the wall.

“Yes, you can be in a nice hot bath while looking out into a cold winter's day.”

“With my hours, it would have to be a winter's night,” she let out a slight laugh as she went back for more paint, “but the moon shining down on the snow would be pretty.”

Meryl turned to face her, “how many hours do you work in a week?”

“Oh, I don't know,” Alice shrugged as she went back to the wall, “about as many as my dad puts in. Just part of running a family business.”

“I see,” Meryl dipped her roller in the pan, “are you planning on taking it over for him some day?”

“I can't do that,” she shook her head, “a man needs to run the store. Dad said he'll find a good man someday for me to marry and he can take over the store.”

“That's bullshit!” Meryl snapped, but she softened when she saw Alice's reaction, “I'm sorry for my language, but not my intent.”

“But I'm just a girl...”

“You are a woman,” she pointed right at Alice, “and one who puts in the same kind of hours he does.”

“But it's a man's job to provide.”

“What about your mom, isn't she a nurse?”

“Yes but she just works so we can have health insurance.”

“And that isn't providing? You said it yourself you grew up in that store. I'm sure you've even run it before when he was sick or out of town.”

“Yeah but...”

“But what? Are you telling me you couldn't run that store?” Meryl put her hands on her hips, “that the entire community that relies on it will abandon it because a daughter took it over rather than a son?”

Alice was quiet, focusing on painting. As she rolled the primer onto the wall she slowly got more and more aggressive.

“Damn him!” she finally shouted out letting the roller drop to the floor.

Meryl pulled her back into a hug, “It's ok, let it out.”

“He pays me less than anyone else at the store and I've been stocking the shelves since I was ten! He has me on salary as an assistant manager so he won't get in trouble for not paying me overtime! I work damn near sixty hours a week and what do I have to show for it?”

Meryl tightened her grip, “that sucks, I'm sorry...”

“And any time I so much as shake hands with a male customer he swoops in to 'take care of things' like they are going to throw me on the ground and have their way with me,” tears started to run down her face, “and heaven forbid I talk with a boy at church, I wasn't even allowed to join the youth groups as a kid!”

“Shh, it's ok,” Meryl wiped her tears with a handkerchief, “did your father ever tell you of his past?”

Alice shook her head.

“He was one of those bad boys he is scared of you ever meeting.”

“How do you know that, you've never even met my dad.”

“I made friends with some people who went to high school with him.”

“He-he said he was homeschooled like me...” Meryl could see the doubt in her eyes.

“That was a lie,” Meryl touched her cheek softly, “all you have to do is look up some old yearbooks if you don't trust me. Your dad back in the day would, in the words of my friend, 'fuck any girl with a pulse'.”

Alice's eyes were wide with shock. Meryl wasn't sure if it was the language or the revelation.

“And when he wasn't pounding pussy he was drinking it up at parties. You know about his accident, right?”

“Y-yes, that's how he met mom in the hospital. He said a deer-”

“He was drunk and went off the road. Go ask anyone in town who was around back then. That's why he cleaned up his life, a brush with death can do that to someone.”

Alice just stood there, not bothering to question Meryl anymore.

“But rather than tell you the truth he decided to lock you up from the world and feed you lies about his past so you would never question him.”

“God, what am I going to do?”

“Whatever the fuck you want.”

Alice tensed at the curse, “Meryl I-”

“He can't stop you, grab your shit and leave. If he wants to fire you, let him. You could get a job working with any contractor in town, or head on up the highway to one of those national chain stores, you'd be a manager in a matter of months.”

The wheels were turning in Alice's head.

“Live your life the way you want to live it. That is what a father is supposed to prepare you for.”

“I don't know whether you are an angel or a demon for telling me these things,” she looked Meryl in the eyes and smiled weakly, “but thank you.”

“Oh, I'm the latter, and you are welcome.”

Alice blinked, “what?”

“I'm a demon, or at least I have been since my first night here,” she picked up Alice's roller and returned it to her.

“Are you...making fun of me?”

“Of course not. Then again, if you honestly were a true believer that cross on your neck would stop me from touching you.” she emphasized this by bopping Alice on her nose, “Oh, relax we're not quite what you have been told we are.”

“I don't believe this,” she turned towards the door, I'm-” she stopped as the door shut and locked itself.

“I'm not asking for you to take this on faith, I can show you my true form.”

Alice whipped back around, “why are you telling me this?”

“Because I am a demon of lust and pleasure not lies and deception for one thing. More importantly, you deserve the truth.”

“And all this truth will cost me my soul, right?”

“What would I do with your soul, put it up on a shelf? This is the physical realm; they only have value on the other side and I have no interest in going over there.”

“Then what do you want?”

“For you to stay here with me and my other guests, free from age or illness, free to experience the pleasures your heart desires. You would be my servant, but not my property like your father treats you.”

“And if I want to leave?”

“With a hand wave the door unlocked and opened, “everyone here has chosen to live here, no contracts signed in blood or anything like that. I won't even mess with your memory if you leave. You can decide for yourself what to do, but I urge you to step out of your father's shadow no matter what you choose.”

Alice turned and walked to the door. She paused in the doorway, her head looking down at the floor. She closed the door and turned back around.

“Show me...”

“Alright,” Meryl pulled her shirt up over her head.

Alice looked away as her bare breasts were exposed, “what are you-”

“I get a little bigger in my true form, unless you want me to rip out of my clothes as I transform?”

“N-no, it's ok...” she blushed deeply but looked back at Meryl.

Meryl pushed the tight cutoffs down over her hips and they slid down her legs. She stepped out of them and looked Alice in her eyes.

“Are you ready?”

Alice was breathing hard as she took in Meryl's almost perfect body. She managed a nod, her curiosity overriding her fear.

Meryl stretched out her arms and started to change. Her ears changed to those of a horse and a matching long tail the same auburn as her hair popped out from the base of her back. Meryl’s skin darkened, taking on a light purple shade. Wings grew from her back as her feet shifted into a pair of ebony hooves. Meryl opened her mouth letting her long tongue hang out for a moment over her sharpened teeth. She lowered her arms and opened her eyes. Where they had once been brown, now red irises on black sclera looked back at Alice. She smiled softly as her black horns grew in just behind her hairline.

“You, you were telling the truth...”

Meryl nodded, “I have no reason to lie to you, Alice.”

Alice's eyes couldn't look away from the massive horse cock and balls hanging between Meryl's legs.

“Are you a girl or a boy?”

“Both, neither,” Meryl shrugged her shoulders, “gender isn't really a thing for us. I swap back and forth, or even be both at once, see?” She lifted up her balls showing off her other sex, “I was a woman in my mortal life so I still think of myself a bit like that.” Meryl could see the curiosity on Alice's face, “come here I won't hurt you,” she offered her clawed purple hand to the blonde.

Alice reached out shakily to take Meryl's hand. The demon pulled her closer to her body.

“Go ahead, you can touch me, trust me you can't touch a lust demon inappropriately.”

Her smile and tone pulled a giggle out of Alice. Looking over all of Meryl's impressive form, the first thing she touched was her tail, she let her fingers brush though the horse-like tail.

“Why do you have, ah, horse parts?”

“When a human is changed into a demon there is always a beast form manifested. In my case I always loved horses, so subconsciously I chose that to manifest as I transformed.” she smiled as she enjoyed having her tail finger-brushed, “I'm sorry if you were hoping for a spade tipped tail and cloven hooves.”

“No, I like horses too, they're pretty.”

“Thank you,” Meryl ran her hand slowly up and down Alice's back, “Is that all you want to touch?”

Alice blushed but shook her head. She ran her hand up Meryl's back and touched the membrane of her wings.

“Can you fly?”

“I should be able to,” She flexed her wings slightly, “I haven't had the chance yet, I've been so busy with the house and my pets.”

“Oh the room! I'm just standing here and-”

Meryl placed a finger over her lips, “watch,” she placed her hand on an unpainted section of the wall.

The plaster seemed to ripple like water. The walls shifted and went from bare patched plaster to perfectly painted walls and trim.

“See? The work is all done.”

“So, you didn't need my help, or even the paint,” She didn't seem angry, but her expression demanded an answer.

“I admit I used it as a pretense to get you up here tonight. I'm sorry, sometimes I do have to be a little deceptive,” she made a small space between her thumb and forefinger.”

“I think I can let that slide,” Alice smiled as she grew more comfortable, “I can touch you anywhere.”

“Anywhere you want and anyway you like.”

“What about anyplace?”

“Hmm?”

“Well I was wondering, maybe we could go back in the bathroom there is a mirror there and...stuff.”

“Like the shower and tub?”

Alice's blush was answer enough.

“You've had a long day, how about a nice shower and a long soak in the tub?”

“That sounds...nice,”Alice let Meryl lead her back to the bathroom.

Meryl closed the door and paused to look at her own reflection. She glanced over at the shower and decided it was best to just hide her wings. Alice watched with amazement as Meryl shifted her form with a thought.

“So you can just change to look however you want?”

“Within reason,” Meryl said turning to look at Alice, “I can pretty much shift anywhere between my true form and my old mortal form, which is handy not only for blending in, but this for instance,” she indicated her cock, “If I tried to use this on a mortal, well, it wouldn't end well. But this,” her member kept its inhuman shape, but shrunk down into a more reasonable size for a human, “This is something I can play with a human with.”

“It is a little less, um, intimidating.” Alice's blush was starting to fade, “This is all just so unreal,” She pulled her shirt up over her head and instantly frowned in the mirror, “fucking granny underwear,” Alice slapped her hands over her mouth not believing the word she just used.

Meryl laughed, “I'm not about to wash out your mouth, Alice, and besides you are right, they are fucking horrible.”

“Yeah, and I have the panties to match.”

“I could make them a bit more...age appropriate if you like, just like I did with the walls.”

“I'd rather you just burn them.”

“I can do that too, there are a lot of fireplaces in this house. Well if you hate them so much, why don't you take them off?” Meryl smirked over at her, waiting.

Alice smiled at the suggestion. She unhooked the bra and tossed it on the floor. Her old jeans and panties quickly joined them. Alice looked at her body in the mirror, her small breasts were barely an A-cup, her hips were narrow and she was sure her butt was far from sexy either. She looked longingly over at Meryl's body.

Meryl noticed the look, “It's not fair to compare your body to a demon of lust and pleasure,” she placed an arm around her waist and pulled Alice into an embrace, “just enjoy what you've got.” She kissed her softly on the lips.

Alice practically melted into her, gripping the demon tightly and moaning against Meryl's lips. Slowly they parted, Alice was panting for air as Meryl held her.

“Th-that was my first kiss...”

“I know, and it was delicious,” she licked her lips, “I'm going to enjoy being your first, well, everything.”

“Umm, do, ah, fingers count? Because, you know, in the shower back home...”

“They only count when it's not your fingers,” she placed a finger gently on Alice's lips.

She smiled when she felt an unsure tongue lick it softly.

“Shall we hit the shower then?”

Alice nodded and they walked over to the stall. Hot water came streaming out as soon as the shower was turned on. Alice sighed as she felt the hot water run over her body. Meryl stood behind her, holding her gently. Alice closed her eyes and smiled, enjoying the sensations of Meryl's hands as they explored her body.

“If you want me to stop, I will,” Meryl whispered in her ear, “but I hope you won't.”

Meryl leaned down and started to kiss her neck. Alice leaned to the side letting her have more access. The demon's hands cupped her small chest and she moaned as her nipples were teased. Alice reached behind her and grabbed onto Meryl's thighs grinding against her half hard cock.

Meryl smiled, “you're not ready for that just yet, but this,” she let her hand rub slowly against Alice's slit.

She buckled hard against Meryl just from the touch. Meryl continued to tease her folds with her fingers. Meryl hid her claws, not wanting to accidentally hurt Alice as she bucked and twitched against the demon.

“Please, please...” Alice begged with her eyes shut.

“Stop?” Meryl asked.

“More!” she demanded grinding against Meryl's fingers.

The demon smiled as she slid a finger slowly into Alice's folds. She moaned loudly, her passage clenching and relaxing around Meryl's finger. Soon Alice back arched as she climaxed hard. Meryl's grip on her was the only reason she didn't fall on the floor of the shower.

“That was quick, you were a bit pent up, hmm?”

“Y-yeah.” Alice panted heavily, “and it...it gets better?”

Meryl brought her finger up to Alice's mouth. The blonde eagerly opened her mouth and sucked her own juices off the digit.

“It gets much better,” she tilted Alice’s head to the side and kissed her deeply.

Alice returned the kiss as best she could, exploring Meryl's mouth with her novice tongue. Alice shifted in her grasp wrapping her arms around Meryl as they kissed. The demon pushed her slowly against the wall of the stall as hot water ran down over them. Alice could feel Meryl’s cock growing hard as she was pressed against the wall. Meryl lifted Alice up easily and she instinctively wrapped her legs around Meryl's waist.

Alice broke the kiss and softly moaned into Meryl's equine ear, “don't stop...”

Meryl smiled and reached down to grab her hips. Angling into her she slowly sunk her cock into Alice while keeping her pinned against the wall. To Alice it felt like an eternity as she was slowly filled by Meryl. By the time she bottomed out Meryl could feel that Alice was on the verge of another orgasm. She held her partner there, pinned against the wall, letting her virgin pussy adjust to the big cock now violating it.

Alice panted as she looked right into Meryl's red eyes, “I-I said don't st-stop!”

“Relax,” Meryl sighed as she feasted on the raw lust pouring off of her partner, “I'm not stopping any time soon.”

Meryl started to rock back and forth slowly, barely moving inside her at all. Alice moaned at each movement. As she felt her partner relax, Meryl began to move with slightly longer strokes. When she felt Alice starting to push back to meet each thrust she started to really move. Alice half wondered if she was trying to push her through the wall with her thrusts. She cried out digging her nails hard into Meryl's back as she pulled herself onto the cock with her legs, matching each thrust. Finally throwing back her head she hit her orgasm. As she felt the pussy clamp down on her cock, Meryl let herself go, pumping the young woman full of her hot seed.

Alice was on the verge of passing out. Meryl kept her supported, gently nipping and kissing Alice's neck while she recovered. Alice groaned and shifted slightly, sighing with delight as Meryl pulled out of her. Her eyes finally opened and she smiled almost in a daze at Meryl.

“Fuck, that was way better than my fingers...”

Meryl giggled as she kissed her softly under the stream of hot water.

“Mmmm,” Alice broke the kiss, “Did I...taste good?”

“You were the tastiest thing I had yet,” Meryl smiled as she touched her cheek, “can you stand?”

“I think so...”

Alice lowered her legs slowly to the ground. She leaned against Meryl but managed to not fall over. Meryl reached up to her hair and pulled out the hair band Alice had neglected to remove before climbing in the shower. She then started to rub shampoo into her hair.

“What are you doing?”

“Just washing your hair, after all you did need an actual shower after all day at the store.”

“Are you going to bathe me too?”

“Do you want me too.?”

Alice closed her eyes and sighed, “yes...”

Meryl's hands felt so good on her body as she worked luxurious lather over every inch of her body. Alice started to giggle.

“Sorry, did I tickle you?”

“No, it's just I'm so happy it sort of bubbled out.”

“Well now that you're clean, how about a soak in the tub?”

“Can we both fit?”

“As long as you don't mind being close.”

Alice's long kiss was answer enough. Meryl had already filled the tub with hot water by the time they switched off the shower. Meryl climbed in first and Alice quickly joined her slipping in between her legs. Alice tried to look out the windows but the lights in the room glared off the glass. Meryl saw her trying to enjoy the view.

“Here, let me get the lights.”

With a snap the lights flicked off and several candles in sconces came to life. The candlelight gave the room a soft glow while not stopping the stars and moon from shining through the window. Alice sighed leaning back against Meryl, her head ended up resting on her large chest. They sat enjoying the warmth of the water and their bodies for some time.

“Meryl?”

“Yes?”

“You haven't asked me to stay.”

“Do I have to? We both know your answer.”

“Will I change?”

“A bit, but only in ways that you will enjoy.”

“I'm afraid of my father, I don't think he will let me leave.”

“If you choose to be my servant, he will not be able to stop you.”

“Meryl,” she reached to the cross around her neck and pulled it off, “I want to stay with you.”

“When you are done with your soak, we’ll begin.”

***

“It's glowing,” Alice said as she watched the fountain pulse and cycle through its color change.

“Yes, I come down here and just watch it sometimes.”

Alice was standing in the chamber. A large white thick towel was wrapped around her body, there was no point in getting changed after her bath.

“So, I just climb in?”

Meryl nodded, “I know it looks strange but it feels good.”

Alice dropped her towel and slowly walked to the edge. As she felt the fluid touch her toes she smiled,

“It does feel good,” she said before sliding off the edge into the pool.

“Make sure you get completely covered,” Meryl called as she watched.

Alice followed her instructions, dunking herself several times before returning to Meryl. The demon lifted her out and Alice sighed, running her hands over her body as if trying to rub the viscous fluid into her skin faster than it was being absorbed. Her whole body tingled and she let out a soft moan. Alice fell to her knees as her hands kneaded her breasts. As she worked them they seemed to expand, growing bigger and bouncier. Alice giggled, naughty thoughts of what she could do with them now already filling her mind.

Her hands slid down her sides where her hips were now changing, flaring out as if to balance her new C-cup breasts. Alice reached around to her ass and gave it a squeeze. She couldn't see it but could tell it was round and tight. Alice moaned as she felt her pussy's growing need. Her fingers started to play with her clit and folds as she closed her eyes.

Alice's mouth opened with a long moan and her tongue lolled out the side. Her pink tongue seemed to grow as if falling out of her mouth. Alice's eyes snapped open as she felt her own tongue brushing against her chest. At first it was shock that filled her eyes, then curiosity as she realized she could control the tongue, easily licking her own nipple.

Alice realized what she could do with her new tongue. Reaching down with her pink appendage she was able to lick her own pussy. Using her fingers now to spread herself wide Alice started to lick. Her eyes closed, lost in the pleasure of it all. Alice didn't even notice the blonde horse tail that grew out over her backside.

She was now jamming the tip of her tongue hard into her pussy while flicking her fingers over her clit. With a final deep plunge she sent herself over the edge. Her cries were slightly muffled by her tongue. She fell onto her back and panted, slowly pulling her tongue back into her mouth with each breath. As she lay recovering on the ground, she felt Meryl lay down beside her.

“How do you feel, Alice?”

“Much better now,” she giggled, “I can't wait to see myself in a mirror.”

“Hmm, I felt the same way after my first dip,” she ran her hands down her body, “do you like your special gifts?”

“I do,” she reached out with her tongue to gently lick Meryl's cheek then giggled.

“Do you know why I gave that to you?”

Alice shook her head.

“The first time I met you at the coffee shop I heard your mouth in action. So, I decided you should have a truly wicked tongue. I have also given you an alluring scent, it will work on most humans, but you do need to be close for it to take effect, not that you will need much help with that body.”

“Thank you,” she pulled Meryl into a long kiss.

“Mmm, you're having fun trying out that tongue, aren't you?”

Alice giggled, “a bit.”

Meryl rolled onto her back and lifted her sack up exposing her slit, “why not come over here and give it a real test”

Alice quickly moved in between her legs. As soon as she could get her head reasonably close she started to flick her tongue over Meryl's folds. The demon's hand went to the back of her head, pulling her closer.

“Now is not the time to tease me, cutie.”

Alice responded by beginning to practically tongue bathe Meryl's slit with her now much more powerful tongue.

“There's a good girl,” Meryl sighed and leaned back her head.

Alice moaned, getting hot again just from the taste of Meryl. Spreading the lips with her fingers, she pushed her tongue into the hot hole. Meryl let out a moan and squeezed her new pet's head slightly with her hand.

“Don't hold back,” Meryl groaned, “I'm not some human you are tongue-fucking...”

Gripping Meryl's thighs tightly she pushed more of her tongue into her lover's pussy. Alice then figured out instead of simply making her tongue longer she could plump it up making it much thicker. With a tongue as long and thick as any of her fellow pets' cocks she began to move it in and out. Slowly at first as she mastered the movement, but Alice quickly gained speed.

Meryl's moans let her know how good a job she was doing. Alice could feel the demon's thighs starting to squeeze against her as she tongue-fucked her. Meryl suddenly smashed her face tight against her pussy and cried out with her climax. Alice could feel her pussy squeezing against her tongue. Once Meryl had relaxed Alice slowly retracted her tongue savoring her taste.

Alice climbed up on top of Meryl's body, kissing and licking her way up as she did so.

“Very nice,” Meryl said as she ran her hands over her latest pet.

“I love the way you taste,” Alice whispered into her ear.

Meryl giggled softly as she continued to pet her, “me too.”

***

Alice followed Meryl up the stairs to the kitchen. She had the towel thrown over her shoulders, feeling no shame at all with her new body. Unlike with her trip down to the fountain, the kitchen wasn't empty.

She saw a woman who looked to be in her late twenties to early thirties at the stove stirring something. She was wearing an apron and nothing else from what Alice could tell. As she turned to face them she could see four bumps in the front of the apron, and fifth one towards the bottom.

“Hello Alice, welcome home,” she said with a warm smile.

The simple greeting almost made Alice cry. She pulled them back, not wanting to ruin the moment.

“Hi, uh, Mrs.-”

“No, no,” she quickly closed the distance, “it's Valerie, hon,” with that she gave Alice a big hug.

“I see you're getting started on dinner,” Meryl said as she walked over towards the pots, “I am quite stuffed myself but I'm sure Alice is hungry.”

“I figured she would be,” she gave Alice a quick peck on the cheek and returned to the stove, “I'm making spaghetti and meatballs, I hope that's alright, hon.”

Alice smiled, “it is more than alright, I love spaghetti and meatballs. Mom never seemed to make it growing up,” she pulled out a chair and sat down, “that's probably why my favorite thing at church was the spaghetti dinners.”

“So it's spaghetti for dinner?” Bill said as he walked into the room.

He was wearing his overalls but didn't bother with a shirt leaving his large breasts mostly exposed. Bill had a bottle of wine in his large hands that he placed on the table.

“Yes, but do try to leave some for Jamie, she's working until eleven tonight.”

“Oh, I was hoping to meet everyone before I had to head home,” Alice frowned.

“Wait, aren't you staying with us?” Bill said, walking over to her side.

“I will be, but I need to get my things from my parents and I need to have a talk with my father.” Bill could see her face darken as she finished that sentence.

“Do you want me to come with you?” Bill asked, putting his hand on her shoulder, “I did know Marty in High school, and if you are afraid of anything going down...”

“You’re sweet, Mr., I mean Bill,” she pulled him down and kissed his cheek, “my car is in his name, so if he tries to take it away from me could you...”

“I'll follow you down and make sure you make it home, one way or another.”

“Thanks Bill.”

***

Alice pulled up to her parent's house and flicked off the engine and lights. She didn't bother to lock the car, she was either going to be leaving with the car, or it wouldn't be her problem anymore. She waved at Bill who sat in his SUV parked back just a little way from the front of the house. She reached for her keys to unlock the door, but her father was waiting and opened the door.

“Hey, you're home, that's good. I was just starting to get worried.”

“Afraid I wasn't coming back?” She asked softly as she entered the house.

Marty was puzzled by her tone, “Did the job go alright?”

“It went quite well,” Alice smiled as she thought back on the night, “we just lingered over dinner talking and such.”

“You got paid too, right?”

“Why,” she narrowed her eyes, “are you collecting the rent now?”

“Hey now, don't you talk to me like that young lady!”

She turned away and continued down the hallway towards her room. Marty noticed she kept her jacket on instead of hanging it up in the front closet. Alice stepped into her room and reached under her bed pulling out an old suitcase.

“Are you listening to me? What do you think you're doing?”

“Packing up, I decided to move into one of the rooms Meryl is renting.”

“The heck you are!” He marched into the room and knocked the suitcase off the bed, “I'm your father and no child of mine is-”

“Child?” Alice stood up and faced her father, “Do I look like a child to you? I'm an adult and I am leaving, tonight.”

Marty was flushed red with anger, “you think you can get away with talking to your father like this? Are you forgetting the Fourth Commandment?”

“Kind of hard to show honor to a man willing to lie to his daughter, isn't it?”

Marty seemed to gag on his words and just sputtered.

“I had a talk with some people who knew you growing up, Dad.”

“What are you-”

“Remember Bill Birch? You should, you went to high school together!” she pushed past her father, “Why the hell did you even lie about that? So I wouldn't question being homeschooled?”

“Alice, that's-”

“Before you try and lie some more about it, I saw the yearbook. But what I found really interesting is what you were like in high school, quite the heart-breaker weren't you?”

“Stop this right now!”

“How about how you met mom, huh, it was a deer that popped out on the road? Maybe that's not a complete lie, maybe you were so god damned drunk you thought you saw a deer!”

Marty slapped her hard across the face, “you do not take the Lord's name in vain!”

Her eyes glared at him but she smiled, “sorry, you were so fucking drunk then!”

“I'm going to-”

“You aren't going to do a damn thing to me,” she started to throw things in the suitcase, “I'm going to tell you how it's going to work. No more of these sixty hour weeks for shit pay. You are going to pay me what an assistant manager should be paid, and I'm working a regular schedule from now on.”

“You think you can order me around?”

“You seem to think you can do the same to me. Either treat me like a proper employee or I quit.” She pulled some clothes out of a drawer.

“I've let you go too long without a husband to rein you in.”

Alice threw back her head and laughed, “Like I could ever have a husband, you chased everything with a dick away from me. What were you going to do, huh? Saddle me with some thirty year old loser who thinks even less about women than you do? Well, you can stop worrying about my love life, I've got it covered.”

Marty grabbed her by the shoulders, “You ungrateful little-”

“I let you have that one slap,” Alice’s voice was low and dangerous, “you let me go now or I will do a lot more than just swear at you.”

“You would strike your own father?”

“Only if he makes me.”

Their eyes locked but Marty faltered under Alice's gaze. He released her arms. Alice adjusted her shirt and returned to packing.

“I won't let you take the car with you.”

Without a word she removed her home and car keys from her chain and tossed them at Marty.

“Well, am I fired?” she said as she zipped her suitcase shut.

He was silent, just staring at her.

“Then I will see you tomorrow at eight.” She lifted her suitcase off the bed and walked out of her old room.

“What about everything else in here?” Marty called after her.

“Sell it, donate it, burn it, I don't care.” Alice continued to the front door and opened it. “If mom wants to come up and talk to me at my new place that's fine, but I don't recommend you show up any time soon.” Alice slammed the door and walked past her car to Bill's.

She tossed her suitcase in the back and climbed in. She knew her father was watching from the window but refused to acknowledge him.

“You ok?”, Bill reached out for her hand.

“I will be, once we get home,” Alice squeezed his hand back.

Bill started up the SUV and pulled away.

***

Meryl slipped out of her bed. The welcoming party for Alice had left all four of her pets passed out in a tangle on her bed. She stretched and walked as quietly as her hooves would let her to the seat in front of the fireplace. The fire was burning low but Meryl enjoyed the long shadows it cast on the room.

I think I will take a break from finding any new pets for a while, she summoned a glass of wine to her hand, I know Alice kicked up a bit of dust tonight, I best let things settle a bit, she sipped her wine, Besides I need to start harnessing all the energy my pets are building for me. In the meantime, what to do... she looked at the clock on her mantel, well, in four and a half hours the Drip and Perk will open...

___________________________________________________

Original story and setting by Syntaxerror37

FA: https://www.furaffinity.net/user/sevencrown37/

SoFurry: https://sevencrown.sofurry.com/

Discord: therealse37

Bluesky: @sevencrown37.bsky.social