FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

The throbbing music emanating from behind the club’s oaken doors favored only the bold. And the bodies it enticed to the dance ground against one another with every pulse from the speakers pouring out the sound.

It was a Friday night in late August, and amid the heaving sea of bodies on the dance floor stood a dainty gazelle. As much as the smell of sweat and arousal tried its best to entice him to dance, and as much as he was trying, the tousled blond curls on his head hardly shook with his muted bounces, and the silver crucifix over his black fishnet shirt barely moved as if hanging still, in protest.

When the music changed to another song, he made his way to the bar. It would do no good to attempt to be carried away with the swell of the bass and the waves of percussion if he could only hope to drown in them.

He simply wasn’t feeling the magic.

“Dimitri, darling, I’d love it if you would make me a martini, shaken,” he said to the coyote behind the bar. The slight lilt of his Yorkshire accent betraying where he came from, and indicating to anyone listening that he was in a foreign land.

Dimitri stood in a black apron over a skin-tight black dress shirt and pants with a red bow-tie. Plucking a bottle of gin from the speed rail with one hand, and bringing up a cocktail shaker in the other, he began the process of preparing the gazelle’s favorite drink; two shots of gin, one of vermouth, and a dash of bitters all poured into an ice-filled shaker. Perfectly measured by eye. His skill at his craft showed as he poured the freshly shaken drink into the glass with a flourish that was equal parts showmanship and practicality.

The gazelle watched the entire affair and held up two fingers when Dimitri moved to put the toothpick with a single olive on it in the glass. After fixing the garnish, Dimitri slid the drink made to the gazelle’s liking over to his waiting hand.

“Thanks, love,” the gazelle slid a ten-dollar bill to the bartender. “Would letting you keep the change get you in my bed tonight?” He asked to the bartender’s shaking, but smiling, head. “More’s the pity. I’m certain I could tie you up in just the right way.”

“You know the only time I take orders is when I’m on the job," Dimitri said to the gazelle hanging his head in mock disappointment.

“And you know I try every time,” the gazelle said with a smirk.

“That you do, Danny.”

The gazelle nearly scowled, but relented “You’re lucky you’re as adorable as you are, Dimitri. But please don’t call me Danny.”

“Sure thing, Daniel.” He said with a wink.

Daniel grinned and leaned closer while he ran a finger along the rim of his glass. “See, that you’re such a flirt makes me think I should keep trying," Then plucked the garnish from the glass, brought it up to his mouth, licked underneath the two olives, and bit one off the pick.

“I’m on the job. Though why don’t you rope in someone from the floor? I’m sure you could.”

“I’d love to, love, but nobody here really looks like they’d be any fun.”

“I see quite a lot of yummy guys out there. And there are usually more submissives than dominants here.”

“True, but few of them are into what I like.” Daniel turned and looked over his shoulder. “See that hottie? The badger. Big burly fellow with muscles for days.”

“I see him. He’s been here a few times before.”

“I know. And I know he likes it harder than I give it," Daniel turned back, taking a sip from his drink. “He’s more into the beating and humiliation thing and I just can’t do that. It doesn’t feel right for me.”

“Is there anything wrong with that?” Dimitri asked.

“No," Daniel sipped his martini, then swallowed. “I just prefer a softer touch.”

“If I didn’t know you, I’d think you were a tourist.”

Daniel sputtered. “Ha, please. I want a guy to devote themselves to me completely. I want them to be the best pet around… able to make any dominant envious of what I have," He said with a wink towards the bartender. “Mine in body and in heart.”

“Your ego is showing," Dimitri remarked as he went to cutting slices of lemons for the garnish tray.

“Of course it is, honey. I want the best. I’m a mother-fucking hair-dye advertisement,” Daniel took another sip of his drink.

“I know you’re worth it," Dimitri said to the leering gazelle eying the coyote’s body. “And I know you’d show me my place if I said otherwise.”

“Am I that much of a handful?” He asked to Dimitri’s nodding. “Well, at least you know how to handle someone like me… not like Charles,” Daniel said as he turned to scan the crowd again. “Has he come back since?”

“Only on Saturdays. You really did a number on him back then. Though his pride got the worst of it.”

“Serves him right," Daniel lilted.

“I don’t know,” Dimitri grabbed some limes and started cutting them into wedges. “Wasn’t he just doing what he likes?”

“He never discussed anything with me. He just…” Daniel’s hands gestured in a wide splay to the bar’s polished marble surface.

“Yeah, but he’s new," Dimitri grabbed another lime. “Anyhow, he’s proven himself since then, cutie.”

“I’m sure he has," Daniel leaned in again, bringing his striped muzzle close to Dimitri’s nose. “Though… if you keep flattering me like this I might think your denial is just a ruse.”

“Old habit. It gets the tips flowing," Dimitri grinned.

“Oh! Oh you dirty whore," Daniel teased the coyote. And when he noticed the flushed expression on his face, he leaned in closer to whisper seductively. “You dirty, dirty whore.”

Dimitri dropped the knife he was holding. “Uh, not while I’ve got something sharp in my hands, please.”

“Oh. Apologies,” Daniel chuckled while pulling back, sliding a finger delicately over the coyote’s arm. “Wouldn’t want you to hurt your utterly delectable body.”

The two traded looks, Dimitri’s hand trembled slightly at the attention while Daniel teasingly bit his bottom lip with a grin.

“Oh relax,” Daniel broke the tension. “But at the very least this proves to me my flirting-game is on point.”

“I hate to interrupt your game but I see some orders coming," Dimitri pointed.

Daniel turned in his seat to see a red wolf wearing a pair of black leather pants and harness coming up with a tray holding a couple empty bottles and used glasses.

“Yeah, I’m going to need two tall-boys of lager, two pilsners, a cosmo, and six tequila shots,” the wolf said after placing the tray down and putting the cash tucked into his waist-band into the register at his station.

“Do they want the tequila dressed?” Dimitri asked, and the red wolf nodded. “Give me a few.”

“I guess that’s my cue to go, right?” Daniel said as he slowly pushed a shaker of salt towards the coyote reaching for the tequila.

“You can stick around if you want, but duty calls," Dimitri responded.

“Ah well, I wouldn’t want to be more of a distraction than I already am,” Daniel winked and bounced off the chair he was perched on.

Daniel was on his way back to the thick of the dance floor when there was a rush of cool air on his ankles. Turning to see, he saw that someone new had entered the club.

A tall… very tall lion… broad shouldered and muscular and every inch the picture of physical perfection with a gloriously thick and full golden mane.

But it wasn’t the lion’s body that caused Daniel to gasp, it was his behavior. He walked with such timidity as if this was the first time he had ever gone to a gay bar. His auburn eyes shifted around, and he didn’t seem to know where to stand, so he remained where he was on the outskirts of the room.

“Thank you,” Daniel whispered.

Daniel slowly weaved his way through the crowd, the bounce in his step matching the rhythm of the music, to meet the eyes of the hulking lion. The way that the lion smiled at Daniel as he approached was all the word he needed.

“Hey, cutie. So what brings you here? You don’t seem to be dressed appropriately," He said as he trailed a finger over the white t-shirt that covered the lion’s broad chest.

“This?” The lion blushed. “I… I don’t…”

“Hey, it’s okay to be nervous," Daniel said, pulling his hand back. “Forgive me for coming on as strongly as I am.”

“No. It’s okay," The lion blushed harder. “I don’t mind.”

“So, can I get you something to drink?” Daniel offered after a pause.

“Can I get anything here or is this a beer-only place?” the lion asked.

“You can get pretty much anything you want, sweetie," Daniel motioned towards the bar. “Tell you what. As long as you’re not asking for top-shelf, it’s on me.”

“I think I would much prefer something non-alcoholic," He smiled.

“Not much of a drinker?” Daniel asked.

“Not particularly.” The lion said.

“Not even on holidays?”

“Sometimes, but usually no.”

“Well you’re in luck, friend, because Dimitri knows how to make a brilliant virgin piña colada,” Daniel paused, his fingers stroking his chin. “I could go for one too now that I think about it. Come on, I’ll get you set up.”

Daniel took the lion’s large hand in his and led him to the bar where the coyote was staring agog at the lion’s bulk.

“Dimitri, darling, I want to get the best virgin piña colada you’ve got. A pitcher, please.”

“Sharing with your new friend?” Dimitri asked to which Daniel nodded. “And what is the name of this lovely hunk you’ve got here?”

“Oh!” Daniel’s hand clapped up to his mouth. “I’m so sorry," He turned to the lion. “All this talk and I didn’t even get your name. How very rude of me.”

“It’s Steven, and it’s alright.” Steven smiled.

“I’m Daniel, by the way. And this is Dimitri” he waved to the nodding bartender who was pouring some cream of coconut into a blender with ice.

“So, what is this place?” Steven asked.

“Oh, honey… you’ve never been to a kink bar?”

Steven shook his head. “I was looking for a fun time and thought the place seemed right.”

“Well, if you’re not into the scene, I shouldn’t make any moves on you.”

“Oh, that’s unfortunate," Steven said, then smiled.

“Why Steven, are you flirting with me?” Daniel asked with a smile.

“Maybe” Steven winked.

“Oh dear,” Daniel said with wide eyes. “Normally I’m the one putting on the moves.”

“I hardly believe that.” Steven said, choosing this moment to look Daniel up and down with a coy grin spreading on his lips to then meet eyes with the stunned gazelle.

“Oh my, you are a dish,” a deep voice came from behind Steven.

The two of them turned to look and standing there in a full black leather outfit including pants, a vest, and boots, was a panther with a devilish smile on his face.

“I’m sorry, and who are you?” Daniel asked, leaning forward, a flutter of jealously underneath his voice.

“I’m John," The panther said, his eyes never leaving Steven. “And I would love to have some fun with you.”

“Not today, Satan," Daniel scoffed. “Besides, Steven and I were having a delightful conversation.”

“About what?” The panther’s locked eyes with the slender gazelle, his cold eyes silencing whatever objections the gazelle might have tried to raise. “I know you’re a tourist; people talk. You don’t have the stomach for giving this hunk of meat the proper attention it deserves.”

“I’m not going to get into a dick measuring contest.” Daniel was shocked out of his stupor. “I don’t need to prove myself to you."

“Ah, but you do need to prove yourself to him… which, well, it’s awfully rude of you to abscond with his attention when he’s far more lion than you could handle.”

“Am I allowed to say something?” Steven asked, but was quickly silenced by a glance from John.

“Come with me," John demanded. “Give me one night and I promise you will forget about them," He looked at Daniel with disgust.

“Has anyone ever told you it’s rude to interrupt?” Daniel said.

“You need to learn the ropes first, kiddo," John said as he dragged Steven onto the middle of the dance floor.

Daniel, despite all the rage brewing in side him for the lost opportunity, watched the two of them like a hawk. He saw them dance, saw the panther grinding against Steven, and even saw him steal a deep and forceful kiss.

“Whatever," Daniel huffed as he got off the bar-seat and went to the coat-check. “I’m not going to stay and watch someone rub that shit in my face.”

“Leaving so soon?” the grizzly bear at the coat-check asked. “You’re normally one of the last to go.”

“Oh Brutus, I know. But the mood has gone sour, and now that someone over there stole what should have been mine," Daniel gestured to the dance floor to where Steven and John last were. “It’s…”

“It’s a kick in the arse is what it is," Brutus replied.

“Oh honey, you always know what to say," Daniel cooed, leaning against the counter.

“Can’t help it," He said, nodding solemnly. “It gets me out of trouble with the mister when I fuck up.”

Daniel laughed. “Oh please give Frank my regards.”

“I will, no worries,"

“Though, if you could, could you maybe ask around about John?”

“Why? Do you think he’s bad news?”

“I dunno. Something about him didn’t click tonight. He went hard and fast on Steven.”

“Aw honey, are you sure you’re not just sore that he stole him away from you?”

“No. I don’t know. I don’t think so.”

“Well, if you really believe something is gonna go down, say the word and I’ll make sure he doesn’t set foot in here anymore.”

“You’d do that for me?”

“Oh believe me, honey.” He grinned. “Just say the word.”

Then Daniel thought better of it. Was he simply jealous of John? He had it in him to be that way. And he knew what a rumor could do to an innocent person and he didn’t want that on his conscience. “Well, keep an eye on him if you can at least.”

“Will do.”

“And if anything changes, or you see Steven again, you know how to contact me.”

“Still have you on speed-dial, sweetie," Brutus chuckled as he stood to give Daniel a big hug over the partition.

“Mm. If your heart wasn’t already claimed, and you were a sub, I’d be all over you.”

“Can’t help it," Brutus grinned.

Daniel left the club, leaving the stained-glass inlaid door to close behind him, barely muting the sound of revelry inside.

He threaded his arms into the sleeves of his fluffy pink jacket and began fishing through his pockets until he found his pack of cigarettes and a lighter. When he had the slender white stick in his lips, he lit it, inhaled, and threw his head back as he exhaled with a emphatic “fuck!”

He kept walking and with every step he couldn’t escape the feeling that something wasn’t right. And the more he thought about it, mired in that feeling, the worse his mood became.

Surely John wasn’t bad news. The owners of the club had house-rules in place.

It wasn’t until he was half-way home that he realized he wouldn’t be able to shake this feeling. He was at his limit and about to run back to the club but as a last resort he did something he hadn’t done in a long time; He brought his hands, tentatively and with a tremble, close to his chest to rest against the spot near his crucifix.

Closing his eyes, he started to speak softly.

“Hey, big guy. It’s me. You know, Daniel. Yeah, I… I know we probably don’t see eye-to-eye on a lot of things but… there’s someone. Not me. I know, shocker. I’m not asking for me this time. But he’s, this guy… I’m worried he’s going to get hurt. Like, not in a good way. So. I… Oh wow, I don’t even know what I’m doing.”

Daniel’s will faltered. Surely he wouldn’t hear him. He often felt like his prayers weren’t heard, given how none of them ever came true. He almost gave up what he started, but something kept him going, and he pressed his hands tighter to his chest.

“I just… if you could please, please send someone to watch over him. I think he really needs someone to look after him. So, can you send someone? Please? I don’t want to say I’ll promise to do my hail Marys or confessional because… you know how I can be; I’m going to forget. But, anyway, yeah. Thank you. For listening, at the very least…”

Daniel eyes were wet and the tear that broke free of his wavering eyes was warm.

“Amen," He said, then crossed his chest, and continued on his way back to his apartment.

It was Thursday, and barely a week had gone by since Daniel prayed for the safety of the lion that had captivated him.

He had to spend the week at his usual day job in which time slowed to a crawl and every call he took felt like it was the same one every time, and with the same type of customer.

But every spare moment filled his mind with images of Steven and the way his auburn eyes looked as he was led away. Daniel only had a few moments to talk with him and already he found himself feeling his guts binding themselves up whenever he thought of what John could do.

Crashing lazily through the door to his barely-tidy apartment he put his keys on the hook behind the door, and splayed the mail in his hand across the coffee table with a deflated toss.

“Fucking slave-drivers,” he sighed as he undid the only leash he would ever allow himself to wear; his tie. “Absolutely waiting for the day I can quit.”

Of course there was no response. The lonely walls of his apartment made for poor conversation. And standing there in his white dress shirt and navy slacks, he resigned himself to what would be a lonely time.

After putting some leftover takeout into the microwave, he grabbed the remote control to his television and flopped on to his couch. He clicked away from the news about the latest accusations of corruption and criminality and decided to see what new development had happened in the Mexican telenovella he was currently addicted to.

He was half-way through the latest episode, and his food, when he saw that his phone’s alarm was flashing. Groaning, he reached for the phone and started to dial the only number he refused to commit to his address book.

The familiar two-tone ringing came through, then when it clicked he heard a soft feminine voice ask “Hello?”

Channeling the only thing his day-job helped him with by putting on a positive face, he spoke. “Hi mum, it’s me. Your son.”

“Danny!” She gasped. “I was about ready to think you had abandoned me again.” Her accent was thicker, fuller than Daniel’s.

“Clearly I haven’t.”

“Well, you haven’t visited lately,” She complained.

“A bit tough to do when there’s an ocean in the way,” Daniel groaned.

“I never understood why you felt like leaving. It was like you just got up and left us all," Daniel’s mother continued. “Honestly, for quite some time you had abandoned us.”

“I was going through some rough sh… things. Rough things.”

“Still cursing. Honestly, I raised you better than that.”

“That’s debatable," He whispered, but when he realized that his mother heard it from the gasp, he quickly changed the subject. “So how have you been lately? Are you still taking your medication?”

“Of course I am,” she huffed. “Not that I can’t, they practically shove the pills down your throat if you try to fight ‘em.”

“They’re for the best,” Daniel said. “You remember why you need them?”

“Apparently the doctor thinks that this makes me better… But, honestly, Danny, I’m fine.”

“You’re on the meds, mum. Of course you feel fine,” Daniel sighed.

“I don’t like it. It’s ungodly," She said.

“Not this again.”

“It is. We weren’t meant to be drugged all the time.”

“Mum, I would really rather not have this conversation again.”

“Well, fine then,” His mother’s voice became hard. “So, when are you going to settle down and give me grandchildren, Danny?”

“You know that’s not going to happen," He said.

“You could at least try.”

“Believe me, I am," He quipped. “But I just can’t seem to get knocked up.”

“Daniel Reginald Anderson,” his mother screeched. “That sort of talk is uncalled for.”

“You asked.”

“It’s sin. You are living in sin.”

“Why don’t you pray for me then?” he said coldly

“I do pray.” Daniel could hear the sneer on his mother’s face. “Do you?”

Daniel sighed, choosing to avoid another fight by changing his tone. “No more than usual,” he said as he got up to go to the balcony to have a cigarette. “Hey Peter,” he waved to the sun-bathing horse in boxer-shorts on the balcony next door.

“Hi Daniel," Peter said. “I’ve got a party planned tonight if you want to let off some steam.”

“Might need to," Daniel said, then mouthed ‘it’s my mother’ as he pointed to the receiver.

“Danny," His mother said. “If you are busy, I guess I can let you go. I’m used to being left alone by now.”

“Stop it, mum. You can’t keep doing this guilt-tripping shit to me. I have my own life.”

“Danny, do not take that tone with me.”

“Sorry, mum, but I do have to go. Something has come up.”

“Daniel Reginal—” and with that Daniel ended the call.

“So, she’s still on her god kick?” Peter asked as he stood to lean against the railing.

“When is she ever not?” Daniel replied. “If she knew what I did in my spare time, she would throw her rosary away.”

“Well, if there’s a god up there, I’m sure he’s looking out for you.”

“Doubtful," Daniel puffed the last bit of tobacco into his lungs then flicked the cigarette butt over the balcony into the alleyway below. “So you said you were having a little to-do tonight?”

“Sandra and the gang are coming over.”

“Ooh! Goody!” Daniel’s ears perked up. He hadn’t seen Sandra since the night that he learned Peter was ill. “Is this going to be a fun party?” he asked, half hoping the answer would be ‘no.’

“It’s casual.”

“So how’s the treatment?” Daniel asked as he slipped another cigarette from the pack to light and take a long draw from.

“Honestly, it’s rough. Even if I had condoms I don’t think I’m in the right head-space to give you a good once over.”

“I don’t need your cock to be your friend, Peter. You know that. Besides, if Sandra’s coming over, I want to make sure I have some time with him. It’ll be nice to catch up.”

“He could definitely use some friends. He’s been pretty messed up since…”

“Ah, yeah," Daniel said. “You and Mavis did like that party-and-play lifestyle.”

“I wouldn’t have let it happen if I had known," Peter replied. “Sandra took it harder than I thought he would…”

“Is he still…?” Daniel made a drinking motion, to which Peter nodded. “I guess we should be glad that’s all he’s doing.”

“Anyway, would you like to come over? I could use the company… and a bit of help with the tidying.”

“Anything for a friend, sweetie.”

The Autumn wind was cold and the unseasonably early snow falling portended the beginning of a long and wet winter.

Inside, Daniel was at the bar wearing a purple silk shirt and black leather pants while sipping a martini when the air took on a cool rush as the doors opened.

In walked Steven… No, walking would be stretching things. He was lurching.

His fur was crusted with blood in patches, his face was swollen, his mane was gone, and he had a look like he was trying to see where he was walking, but his eyes were stuck looking off into the horizon… And he was naked, save for a heavy chain around his neck held closed with a pad-lock.

Daniel gasped, and was on his feet.

Brutus reached over the coat-check’s partition to grab the biggest coat he could find and had it wrapped around Steven’s shoulders in no time.

Steven seemed unaffected. His face was locked in a thousand-yard stare, and he didn’t look to the bear.

“Aw shit, we have to get him somewhere safe right the fuck now," Brutus called to Daniel.

The sound in Brutus’s voice lit a fire in Daniel. The normal confidence was gone and in its place was a strictness, like someone had changed the channel to a different program.

“C’mon," Brutus said to Steven. “Let’s get you somewhere safe.”

Steven’s face, trapped in passive shock, barely registered the concern.

“Oh God, no," Daniel was about to wrap his arms around Steven, but Brutus put his arm up and kept him off.

“Don’t. Give him space," the bear said.

Brutus guided Steven up the stairs to the club-owner’s office, and Daniel followed.

The office was brightly lit, impeccably clean, and reeked of bleach that pricked at Daniel’s nose. Brutus guided Steven to sit down on a couch at the side, and looked to Daniel. “Keep him there, I need to get the first-aid kit.”

“Doesn’t he need a hospital?”

“Yeah, but I gotta do something. And… Goddess almighty, If John did this, I’m gonna beat his ass raw.”

Brutus left Steven and Daniel in the room alone.

“It’s okay, big guy. We’re going to get you fixed up.” Daniel said as he leaned down to meet the lion at eye-level.

Steven, finally realizing he was sitting, and in someone else’s presence, started darting his eyes around the room and breathing heavier.

Daniel reached out to him, as if to touch him, but he held off. He wasn’t sure what was happening, and he didn’t want to disobey Brutus order. The way he held himself just now didn’t reek of the kind of authority he usually saw in the scene. It was coming from somewhere else.

Then Daniel saw the gashes buried in Steven’s fur. Most of them had either scabbed over, or were old enough to have started to heal. Some would need stitches… and Daniel started seeing red.

He couldn’t help himself from pacing, and he was near to the point of muttering and shouting. But when he saw Steven’s eyes on him, and how they reeked of the same fear when he looked at him, Daniel froze in his tracks and he stood there, locking eyes with the lion as he tried his best to keep himself from crumpling.

“Is he coming around?” Brutus walked in with a red plastic box in his hand.

“I… I think…” Daniel choked out.

“Honey, relax. If you need a drink, tell Dimitri to put it on my tab. He knows I like ya like that.”

“No. I… It won’t help.” Daniel said.

“Suit yourself," Brutus was already at work. He had the kit open and was unscrewing the top of a bottle of disinfectant. “Now, kiddo, this is gonna sting, but I’ve gotta clean these cuts.”

Steven looked to Brutus, the fear never leaving his eyes.

When Brutus reached forward, Steven’s ears flattened against his skull and a whimper escaped his throat.

“It’s okay. You’re looking at me, so that means you’re coming down from it… Nod if you understand.”

Steven sat there for a moment, then slowly nodded his head.

“Good. Now, grit your teeth, because this is gonna hurt.”

Steven tried to hold in a cry when he felt the acrid sting of the disinfectant on his wounds, but he didn’t fight, or pull back. He let Brutus tend to him.

Daniel was feeling something in him, and that bubbling emotion trying to take over was making him tremble and twitch. Steven saw, and he started breathing heavier.

“Hon, I love you, but you need to leave if you’re gonna be like that," Brutus said.

“Like what, Brutus?” Daniel snapped.

“Like this. You’re throwing off a bad vibe and this lunk is feeling it," His voice was getting harder, almost to the point of shouting. “So get your shit together, or get the hell out.”

Brutus shocked him into obedience.

He was standing outside the office’s door at the top of the stairs, and he wanted to punch something. No, he wasn’t about to stay here. Every whimper he heard through the door only set off an up-swell of gut-twisting anger that he knew he needed some fresh air.

The night was cold, but not the stinging kind. Large clumps of snow drifted down lazily, melting into the slush on the street, while the clumps still adrift muffled the sounds of the city.

He had a cigarette in his hand before he realized it, and he was about to light it when he hesitated, rolling the filter between his thumb and finger as he tried to remind himself of the damage it’d do to his lungs.

‘Fuck it.’ Daniel thought as he put it to his lips, flicked the lighter, and lit the cigarette.

Sighing the smoke out, he drew another puff and inhaled, tucking his free hand under his arm as if trying to withdraw into the wall now propping him up. But he eventually slid down the entry way until he was crouching.

Daniel stayed there, and after chain-lighting his second smoke, the door eventually opened and Brutus stood at the threshold.

“Come with me," He said.

Daniel flicked the cigarette into the street and followed Brutus inside.

They went back up the stairs to the club owner’s office. When Daniel saw Steven on the couch, tucked in a blanket and huddled with his back towards him, Daniel wanted nothing more than to stroke him, though he feared it would just make the pain he was in worse.

“Ain’t seen anyone with that face since ‘Nam," Brutus said. “I can’t say I know what he’s been through, but Christ almighty it must’ve been bad.”

“Can… Can you please not say that?”

“Hmm? Oh, sorry hon.”

Daniel nodded his head as he twisted the crucifix between his fingers.

“In any case, an ambulance is on its way, but he’s gonna need somewhere to crash when he’s discharged.”

“I’ll do it," Daniel said immediately.

“You live in a one-room, hon. And I don’t think he’s ready to share a bed with anyone.”

“I’ll take the couch. I don’t care if it sucks.”

“I don’t know. He’s gonna come out of his shell and he might freak out if he sees your toy collection.”

“I’ll throw them off the balcony if I have to," Daniel pointed at the heavy chain still around his neck. “Shouldn’t that be off?”

“I’m worried that might throw him into a panic. Besides, I don’t see any bolt-cutters laying around, do you?”

Daniel scanned the room, but knew he wouldn’t see any. Still, it helped ease his mind to try. Anything to occupy it so that he wouldn’t get caught in a tidal-wave he could barely keep in check.

“I don’t think you’re in any state to be standing up for the big guy right now. You’re quivering like a leaf in the wind," Brutus observed.

“Do you think he’ll be okay?”

“Can’t say. But it’s gonna take time. Though please try to avoid freaking out around him. He needs you to be his rock.”

“I can get him pills," Daniel said as an afterthought, thinking of the anxiety medication that he used to take.

“No!” Brutus almost shouted. “Don’t fill him up with that shit. Do you want to get him hooked?”

Steven started shaking.

“Sorry, big guy. You are safe. Rest. You’re going to be brought to the hospital. You’ll be safe there too.”

“Are you gonna call the cops?” Daniel asked.

“They’ll be sniffing around anyway. The E.M.T.’s are gonna have to file a report when they see him. And if the big guy wants to talk, let him talk," Brutus sighed. “But you know the moment the police catch a whiff, they’re gonna be crawling all over the place.”

“Ugh. It’s not like what we do isn’t consensual.”

“If they see him, they won’t believe you," Brutus stroked Steven’s head. “And the way he came in, yeah… Poor guy got in way over his head.”

“So, can you do anything about John?”

“I can get the word out. But I don’t know if that’ll do anything other than making him find somewhere else to hunt.”

“Fucking hell," Daniel cussed, then straightened his posture and smoothed down his curly hair as best he could.

“Daniel” Brutus added. “I need to give you this," He said as he held out a business card.

“What’s this for?”

“It’s a therapist: Licensed, queer positive, and kink friendly," Brutus said. “He’s not in the scene, but he knows more about it than most of us do.”

“Thank you," Daniel slipped the card into his pocket. “I’ll hold on to it for him.”

Brutus looked at Daniel with concern, but turned back to the bloodied but now resting lion.

The paramedics arrived within minutes. Brutus helped them and updated them on the situation as best he could, leaving out the fact that the club was a kink bar.

Soon Daniel was in the back with Steven as they headed to the hospital.

The stay at the hospital was rough, and took about a week for Steven to be discharged. The doctor wanted to run some psychological tests, but he refused.

And Daniel visited him every chance he could, sitting there, fetching him water or food, or just being there to remind the quiet lion that he was safe.

Inside Daniel wanted to curse and swear at the damned panther that stole him away to do all this to him. But until Steven wanted to open up about what happened, all he could do was be there for him.

When Steven was eventually discharged, Daniel was there to help him home with a change of clothing that barely fit the lion. He didn’t know where Steven was living, and the way that he didn’t speak much when asked if he had a place to go, gave Daniel the sense that he didn’t have a place to go. So he took him back to his apartment.

It was a bright Friday afternoon and Daniel was thinking he should have gone to mass that day… Though he didn’t feel like God had done much to protect Steven as he had prayed for.

And he was angry, but he did his best to hold that in for Steven’s sake.

When Steven was on the couch, he flinched when Daniel stood up suddenly. Steven was still tall, but from this position Daniel was a few inches taller.

“Hey, I won’t hurt you. I give you my word. Swear it on the cross," Daniel lifted the crucifix hanging on the thin silver chain around his neck.

Steven’s eyebrows furrowed.

“No, I’m not the fire and brimstone type, and I won’t force that on you.”

“… T-thank you," Steven spoke with a voice that wavered. The first words Daniel heard him say since he brought him home, and he nearly burst into tears at hearing the fear in them.

“Are you going to be okay for a bit? I’ve got to get to work and…” Steven tensed up. “Shh… sweetie, it’s okay. John doesn’t know you’re here, and he sure as hell doesn’t know my number, or where I live. As far as he’s concerned, you’ve disappeared.”

“May…” Steven tried to speak, but pulled it back.

“Have faith in me. And if you need, I’m only a phone call away… and if you’re not sure you can trust me, Brutus’s number is on the board and he’s only a few minutes away.”

“… no, I’m… May I have some food.” Steven’s voice wavered slightly.

Daniel wanted to slap himself. He was so caught up in trying to help Steven rest that he forgot he would need to eat. Daniel hadn’t eaten since last night either, and he didn’t think the left-over take-out in his fridge would be enough for either of them.

“I can do that for you, though I’m not that good of a cook. You okay if I order a pizza?”

Steven eventually nodded, but then his eyes shot open wide “I… I don’t have any money, and how will I…”

“No, it’s my treat," Daniel stroked Steven’s arm, then groaned. “Wow, Shane’s gonna have my hide, but I’m taking the day off. I don’t think you’re ready to be left alone.”

Steven smiled weakly. And when Daniel saw it for the first time, his heart swelled.

“You’re beautiful when you smile," Daniel paused and grinned.

“Is that why you took me in?” Steven asked.

“I just had a bad feeling," Daniel looked at the bandages on Steven’s body, and the swelling from the many welts. “And that feeling was right.”

Steven shifted in his seat, and his face was getting tense.

“What’s wrong, sweetie?”

“I… May I have permission to use the toilet?”

“Of course. Bathroom’s down the hall.” Daniel said. Steven was making to stand, but Daniel continued “You don’t have to be like that around me. If you have to piss, take a shit, or whatever, do what you need to.”

Steven smiled, and a relieved sigh came out. “Thank you.”

He went to the bathroom, and Daniel stood to grab a flier from the cluttered stack by the door… His smile widened when he saw the deal he was looking for, and pulled out his phone to dial.

“Yes, hi," He said when the operator picked up. “I saw a deal? Oh, yeah, Delivery. My address should be on file. Okay, so, the flier is saying you have a two-for-one and a couple bottles of cola. Yeah, can I get that in a large? Brilliant. Thanks… I’ll have one veggie delight, whole-wheat crust on that one please, extra sauce and garlic too. And…” Daniel leaned to look at the closed bathroom door. “Hmm… Actually, can you make that three large? How much more is that? Okay, sure. Make it three. So, one veggie, one regular… oh, sorry, peppers, sausage and mushrooms… and the last? Let’s go for meat-lovers… Oh, I hope he’s not a vegan. A vegan lion… Hah! That’d be a thing, wouldn’t it? Oh, sorry… Yes… Okay, I’ll be paying cash, and if you send your cutest delivery guy, he’ll get a really nice tip… Oh, nonono. It’s not like that, sorry. Thank you. And you have a nice day too!”

After hanging up, Daniel felt a cold rush. ‘Shit, I hope he really isn’t a vegan… and I hope he can eat gluten… no, he’d have said so… would he? Fuck,’ he tried to shrug that thought away. “Too late now, I guess,” He said.

A crash from the bathroom startled Daniel from his ruminating and he was running to the bathroom before he had time to think about what was happening.

Slamming his weight against the door, he burst in to see Steven crumpled in the tub, hyper-ventilating and with a look of sheer terror on his face.

“Oh no, sweetie, what happened?”

He saw the chain around his neck was bloody and Daniel knew he must have opened one of his wounds trying to fight with it.

“Fuck, Brutus, I love you but…” Daniel tried to bring Steven back from the storm raging inside him by grabbing his hand and cooing. “Honey, please. Come back to me. He isn’t here and he can’t hurt you anymore.”

Steven looked to him, his eyes wild from the panic raging in him and Daniel reached for a bottle on the vanity.

“Here… I know Brutus said not to, and this isn’t going to be a regular thing, but please swallow this," Daniel put a pill near the lion’s lips, and he took it into his mouth. “It’ll stop the panic. Don’t worry, it’s legit. It’s here for when things get to be too much.”

Daniel then sat on the edge of the tub after Steven swallowed the pill, and cradled Steven’s head against his body as he stroked it gently. The lion’s gentle cries continued, but started to wane as the drug started taking effect.

Steven was still emotional, but now he was able to talk. “I… I don’t know what happened. He… He put it on me and… and when I saw it I… I was… I thought… and his eyes. He…”

“Shh, honey. He can’t have you. I won’t let him.”

“He’s strong.”

“Yeah, but I can kick like a mother-fucking stallion," Daniel forced a grin. “And he probably isn’t the type to wear a cup.”

Steven almost chuckled, but the tears weren’t done yet. And if Steven had looked into Daniel’s eyes, he would have seen the tears soaking into his fur weren’t only his.

Daniel didn’t want Steven to see him like this. He tried his best to be strong for him, but it was the hardest thing he had ever done, and he offered a silent prayer in his mind for the strength Steven needed him to have.

But despite the prayer, inside Daniel’s heart rage boiled.

The night was cold and the air was dry. Inside the apartment the clock on the wall showed that the sun was only a few hours away from rising over the horizon.

Daniel, for all the exhaustion of the previous week, was tossing and turning on the couch. No matter what position he took, none helped him relax. In his mind he kept running over what he thought must have happened to Steven to reduce him to such a sorry state.

He covered his head and sighed. “Fucking panther," He exclaimed softly. “I’d skin the motherfucker alive if I had the chance.”

He was brought out of his rumination from the soft crying sounds from the bedroom. Standing, he crept to the door to listen… but hesitated. The crying was brief and when he leaned closer to listen, he heard nothing.

Daniel went back to the couch. Surely Steven was sleeping, probably having a bad dream. Though he thought it would be best to let him rest. So Daniel laid back down on the couch, pulled the blanket over, and tried to get some sleep.

As his lids became heavy, a loud shout woke him to total alertness and he was at the bedroom before he had time to think it through.

The scene he saw when he opened the door drove a spike through his heart.

In the corner, Steven was huddled up in a ball, his back to the wall, and his eyes were wide open and was muttering something to himself.

“Hey, big guy” Daniel offered. “What’s wrong?”

Steven only started to rock in his scrunched up position.

Daniel approached slowly, reaching out to Steven to stroke his cheek gently.

But when Steven saw the approaching hand, he panicked and kicked Daniel away, off the bed. Then when he realized what he had done, he climbed forward, bowing his head low saying “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

Daniel had to fight back his tears. The only thing he thought he could do right now was to climb into bed with Steven to hopefully give him some comfort.

When Daniel came closer, Steven shielded his face with his arms and started to breathe heavily.

“It’s okay Steven. I’m here," Daniel said. His voice calm and serene, despite the raging storm in his core.

Daniel tried to climb up to where Steven retreated back to.

“I’m not going to hurt you, Steven," Daniel softly spoke as he came closer, sliding a hand up Steven’s arm to rest on his shoulder gently.

Steven flinched, but when he realized the hand wasn’t delivering brutality, his posture softened.

Daniel took this opportunity to climb next to Steven and urged him to lay down with his head in his lap.

He stroked the side of Steven’s head softly, though taking care to avoid the areas that were still swollen and painful. “It’s going to be okay, Steven," Daniel finally said. “He’s not here, he doesn’t know where you are, and he can’t have you.”

“I know," Steven whispered. “But I can’t get away from it. I close my eyes and I can see him. Smell him. Feel him.”

“It still hurts.” Daniel said, and Steven nodded softly. “I promise I will never hurt you.”

The two of them sat like that for a while, until Steven decided to sit upright, reach over to Daniel’s face with a trembling hand, and touched his cheek softly.

Daniel closed his eyes and leaned into the touch.

Then Steven reached forward and placed his lips on Daniel’s.

They kissed. Gingerly at first, neither of them wanting to press forward too hard, until they were kissing deeper, more intensely.

Daniel broke the kiss and pulled back. “I… I shouldn’t be doing this. You’re still raw.”

“Don’t you want to?” Steven asked, lines of worry crossing his marred face.

“Oh I do," He gasped. “But… it doesn’t feel right.”

“I’m sorry," Steven turned his head to look at the sheets of the bed.

“No, don’t be like that please," Daniel whispered and brought a hand up to Steven’s cheek. “When things are better, and you’re able to think a little clearer, we can talk about it.”

Steven looked into Daniel’s steel blue eyes, and Daniel looked back.

Daniel reached up to gently stroke Steven’s cheek. “Though I really want to kiss you again.”

“Then do it," Steven said plainly, tears welling up in the corners of his eyes as his voice started cracking. “Please. Let me feel something other than… this.”

Daniel sighed and urged Steven to lay down with him.

Steven nestled into Daniel’s arms, and started to gently stroke the short fur along Daniel’s back, and Daniel did similarly for Steven.

“Breathe, Steven.” Daniel said. “Slow in, slow out.”

Steven obeyed and soon the two of them were laying together letting their touch be their shared anchor.

“He used to sing," Steven eventually said. “About lions in the jungle.”

“He’d sing?”

“Before he’d hurt me," Steven said with a tremble in his core felt by Daniel. “And then he’d…”

“It’s okay. He’s not here. I promise," Daniel nearly whispered.

“I want to trust you,” Steven shook his head, his eyes wrenched closed and a grimace on his face. “It’s just that he’s here with me. Not in the room, but in my head.”

“Do you want me to get another one of those pills?”

Steven shook his head. “Not right now," He said as he pulled Daniel closer, pressing his muscular chest into Daniel’s.

Daniel closed his eyes for a moment and let himself get lost in the embrace. Steven held him close. Feeling Steven’s chest swell and deflate with each breath was hypnotic and he was melting into it.

“Do you think you might want to talk to a therapist about all this?” Daniel asked through the strokes.

Steven’s hands paused, “I… don’t know.”

“Well, Brutus gave me a number. It might be worth setting something up.”

“I’ll think about it.” Steven said as he hugged Daniel closer.

Soon the two of them felt the heaviness of sleep encroach and Daniel was nodding off in Steven’s arms.

The two rested that night.

“Tell me if you feel pain," Daniel stood in his apartment in a baggy shirt and shorts while he carefully peeled back the bandages to change Steven’s dressings.

“Yes sir.” Steven said as the wounds which were stitched closed were healing over, and the fur was beginning to grow once again from the patches where it was missing.

“Honey, no," Daniel stepped back after dropping a wad of soiled gauze into a trash bin. He gestured to his slender frame “Do you think I can pull off a ‘sir?’ Besides, I don’t like that one. I was thinking I’d be more of a queen. Has a nice ring to it.”

“Yes, my queen.”

“No… No. I need to earn it. Besides, I won’t push you into the scene if you need to get away from it," Daniel reached for a roll of fresh gauze muttering; “He really did a number on you.”

Daniel finished putting the bandages on, wrapping the gauze around in places on Steven’s body so that it would remain in place.

Then Daniel brought his hands up to Steven’s cheeks slowly.

Steven, at first shied away but as Daniel’s hands renewed their gentle urging, he relented.

Daniel’s eyes scrunched up a bit, and he gently stroked the cheek of the tense lion with a thumb.

“You are safe here. And you don’t need to pull that master-pet shit with me. I don’t need it. I don’t have an ego…” Daniel paused as he looked into Steven’s auburn eyes. “Well, okay, I do… but it’s not that big. Honest.”

Steven looked at Daniel and moved as if to say something, but the words didn’t come.

“I need you to speak freely. I mean, even if you want in or not, I need you to tell me what you want.”

“But I…” Daniel heard Steven say, but put a finger on his lips.

“No buts. Honesty, even if it hurts.”

“Will you let me speak?” Steven said, and Daniel backed up a step to let Steven speak. “I trust you.”

Daniel paused. “You… you trust me?”

Steven nodded.

“Oh, honey. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have been such a…" Daniel knelt down to face Steven. “Though I’m not going to do anything like that until we talk about what you want, and what you need.”

“That’s acceptable. I thought it was like that, but…” Steven tried to say but the words didn’t come.

“Yeah, John’s just a fucking asshole.”

Steven went silent.

“Wait, did I say something wrong?” Daniel asked.

“No.” Steven responded. “I… no. I shouldn’t.”

“What is it, babe?” Daniel cupped Steven’s cheeks in his hands. “Is this something you should tell the cops?”

“No!” Steven’s eyes grew large “I don’t want to see another uniform again.”

“Shit. Are you for real?” Daniel stepped back. “Fuck me. So, he’s a cop?”

“I think so.”

“Shit, this is bad.” Daniel’s breathing was short.

“Do you think we should talk to someone?” Steven asked.

“Yeah, that won’t work. Not that we could ever trust them.”

“What?” Steven asked.

“Never-mind," Daniel said.

“No, tell me.”

“Because they never believed me… us. They never believe us," Daniel sighed, his trembling arms locked tight over his chest. “I need a fucking cigarette.”

Daniel walked off, grabbed a pack of cigarettes from his jacket, and went to open the sliding door that led to the balcony.

Steven, however, stepped in front of the trembling gazelle. “Tell me please. What happened?”

“No," Daniel refused him, but when he saw that Steven wasn’t taking no as an answer, he slumped his head forward.

“I’m not…” Daniel said, but Steven was showing him a concerned look. “I’m not ready, okay? I can’t. I’m not this strong-willed turbo-tart you think I am, I am fucking scared… and when I tried to get help—” his voice cracked and he tried to pull open the door a few times more like a toddler throwing a tantrum. But Steven refused. “I need a cigarette, Steven. I’m not playing a game, I really do.”

Steven slid the door open. “I want you to be honest with me… even if it hurts.”

Daniel pointed at Steven with a defiant look and a mouth opening like a fish. But he couldn’t say anything to Steven, especially since he used those very words earlier.

They stepped out on to the balcony and Daniel lit the cigarette he had in his mouth before he was in the fresh air. He went to the railing, and steepled his body against it with his arms while he faced the horizon, the cigarette locked in his lips.

Steven stood close by behind him.

Daniel inhaled a drag and grabbed the cigarette from his mouth. “I did go to a someone, a bobby. They brought me to the station and I told them what happened, all of it," He stared out at the sky. “And when they found out who it was that I said did it, what I spent an hour working up the courage to say was just forgotten. It’s like somewhere along the line it was brushed aside.”

Steven wrapped his arms around the tense gazelle.

Daniel flinched, but soon leaned back into the embrace.

“I was fourteen.”

Daniel felt Steven’s shudder. “Are you okay? Do you want to talk?”

“No. No, I’m not… I’m not ready.”

“Have you talked about this with a therapist?” Steven asked, his voice gentle.

“And open a wound that I may not be able to close again? Fuck no," Daniel puffed on the cigarette. “Besides, the asshole that did it is dead. He took his life," He took another draw, hoping the familiar burning in his throat would somehow relax him. “The bastard is in hell now," Daniel said as he threw the cigarette over the rail and turned so he could face the concern in Steven’s eyes. “And he can stay there.”

Steven simply nodded with a pained expression.

“Only one to fish that out of me got their nose punched," Daniel said then immediately felt a rush of anxiety well up, and hurried to continue. “That’s not a threat, it’s… Ugh. Sorry, It’s just…” he sighed and pushed his head in the massive chest in front of him. “I don’t want to have to go through it again. Not yet," He leaned his head back so he could look in Steven’s eyes. “So please, please let me deal with it in my own way.”

Steven pulled Daniel closer, pressing his body tight against his chest.

Daniel, as much as he thought to struggle, decided to melt into Steven’s hug, and he felt his eyes begin to water.

“I’m here for you," Steven said, and that brought fresh tears to Daniel’s eyes.

Daniel slumped into the hug, pressing his head to Steven’s furred chest once more. They stood there, letting the air wash away the remaining echoes of their past, and let the heat of the sun warm their shivering hearts.

“Is that why you like being in control?” Steven eventually asked the melting gazelle.

“Probably. I’m not the only one in the scene with baggage like mine," He replied. “But to be fair… it is fun.”

“With the right people," Steven responded, and Daniel pulled his head out of the embrace just enough to see the glint in Steven’s eyes. Daniel was rendered speechless. “You’re not the first person I’ve met that liked this kind of thing,” Steven finished.

The gazelle’s jaw went slack. “Oh, honey. Is it wrong to say that I’m a little bit turned on right now?”

Steven grinned and pulled Daniel into the hug even tighter, making sure the he felt something press into him from below the belt.

“Ooh," Daniel blushed. “Do you want to take this inside?”

“Yes. But please go easy on me," Steven’s eyes darted down to his body. “Stitches.”

“Hm, let’s bank it for now then. Probably not a good idea anyway, I might get a bit too into it… especially since—” He slid his hands down to gently grasp at Steven’s rump while making a playful biting motion.

Steven grinned as a groan escaped his throat. “Tease.”

“Of course!” Daniel grinned.

“Well, big guy” Brutus said to Steven. “I’m sorry it took this long, but today’s the day that collar comes off.”

“Thanks. I… I want it gone," Steven sat on the couch while Brutus, holding a pair of heavy bolt-cutters, waited to remove the heavy chain that was locked around Steven’s neck.

Daniel’s apartment was warmly lit from the sun and the smell of incense permeated the air.

“You’ve done well. A week has gone by since you got out of the hospital," Brutus said.

“It’s… I want to say I can remember it, but it’s like I don’t know if what happened was even real," Steven was fidgeting. Daniel, standing dutifully by his side with a hand on his shoulder, looked nervous. “It’s like it was a nightmare.”

“Well, that nightmare is about to end, cutie," Brutus said. “Though you’re getting your voice back. That’s a good sign. That’s a damn good sign.”

“I’m a little… Daniel gave me something to help," Steven admitted.

“What? Oh, don’t be filling him up with drugs, honey," Brutus exclaimed.

“They’re legit. They’re dosed for me and he’s only had one this morning," Daniel interrupted.

“Hmm. Well, I guess… But don’t make a habit of it," Brutus said. “Those things can fuck you up real bad if you get hooked.”

“You can be assured it won’t be. I don’t like how they make me feel," Steven’s eyes turned to look up at Daniel. “No offense. But I don’t much like drugs.”

“None taken," Daniel shifted his weight from side to side. “So, can we get this over-with? I mean, it’s not that I’m busy… But this?” he tilted his head and looked at the chain around Steven’s neck. “well… I don’t want to be reminded of that shit-head any more either.”

“That’s fair. And I don’t blame you," Brutus lifted the pair of bolt-cutters. “Can you grab the chain, honey? These are heavy.”

“Okay," Daniel did, with Steven’s help.

“You ready?” Brutus asked, and both Daniel and Steven nodded. “Okay… One, two… three.”

The chain, after a metallic snap, became loose and fell into Daniel’s hand with a clanking sound. The moment he was free, Steven was rubbing his neck with a relieved smile on his muzzle.

“If you want to grab a shower to get that rust off, keep in mind your wounds are still healing so—”

“Don’t worry, I have a first-aid kit," Daniel said quickly. “You’re not the only boy-scout in the room.”

“I guess that’s how you got so good with knots.” Brutus placed the bolt cutters aside. “By the way, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you, Daniel.”

“Oh?” Daniel was still having a difficult time keeping his nerves in check, but there was something in what Brutus said.

“Yeah. When I told the owner what happened, he of course flipped his shit. He’s had cameras in his face almost the whole week and he was…” Brutus whistled. “He was livid. But he did say something you might want to hear.”

“Go on," Daniel urged.

“You know how you said if you ran the place, you’d never let John get through the door?”

“Mhm," Daniel nodded.

“The owner’s looking to sell," Brutus smiled.

“Wait? Are you messing with me?” the corners of Daniels mouth curled inward.

“Nope. It’s a bit of a long-story, but this was the last straw for him and he wants to cut his losses.”

“I know I said I’d buy it, but… Seriously, Brutus, I’m not what you’d call rich.”

“Don’t have to be. Just have to be willing.”

“You’re confusing me… and that’s kinda making me a bit angry, love," Daniel said flatly.

“Well, you know how Frank’s been going through some rough shit lately?” Brutus continued.

“Yeah… You got the bouquet I sent?” Daniel asked.

“He did. And he loved it. But to get back to what I was saying… Seems he’s come into a bit of an inheritance… A nice one at that.”

Daniel was feeling the nerves turn to a bubbling anxiety.

“And he’s looking to invest. He don’t know shit about running a club, but he’s willing to let us be silent partners… if that sounds good to you?”

“I don’t know. I’ll have to think about that.”

“Of course. It would be a big responsibility. You’d have to get the right permits, the place would need to be remodeled… and some renovations are overdue… Then there are regulations, laws, and all that… Oh, and it’d be lovely if you wanted to bring in some other shows.”

Steven looked up. “If you’re okay with it, I’d like to help too.”

“Hm?” Daniel nervously looked to Steven.

“I have skills I could contribute," Steven said.

“Such as?” Daniel wondered.

“I’m pretty good with numbers," Steven said, then his eyes turned to Brutus. “I can handle the book-keeping… if you’ll let me.”

“You’re making it hard for me to say no, Steven," Daniel whined. “But. You know what? Sure. Why not? It’s not like I like my job anyway.”

“I just want to make sure you’re serious here, Daniel. This is a huge responsibility," Brutus said.

“I am aware. Though I hope we don’t lose the staff. I’d hate to leave Dimitri and the rest without a job," Daniel said.

“So is this a yes?” Brutus asked. “I would like to know sooner rather than later because the owner is going to put it on the market next week.”

“And Frank is able to afford it?” Daniel asked.

“As long as the owner doesn’t try any funny shit," Brutus said. “But I’m sure if I’m the one that tells him, he is more likely to take it seriously.”

“What will we be doing?” Daniel put his hands on his hips.

“Mostly keeping the lights on and the stage… there should be a stage by the way… filled with talent to keep people coming back.”

“I don’t know," Daniel whined. “But, I guess I could… If you and Frank are serious about being partners.”

Brutus smiled as he stepped forward to give the dainty gazelle a massive hug.

“Oh, this is gonna be fun… Just make sure you can keep the magic flowing, and maybe a bottomless tab for Frank and I?”

“Well, that might be pushing things… but, sure. Why not?”

Brutus grinned as he let Daniel out of his arms. “Though don’t feel like you have to do anything more. We just need someone to help keep the place open. We don’t need you to host, or to put yourself on display.”

“But what if I like to?” Daniel said, walking around.

“I want to be there with you.” Steven interrupted. “I don’t know what it means to be with you, but I want to find out.”

“Aww, honey," Daniel cooed as he knelt down to take Steven’s hand in his. “If you want to.”

“Okay, now kiss and make it official” Brutus said, a wry grin on his face.

Daniel laughed, and Steven joined in, but they did. Steven stood, placed his hands on Daniel’s cheeks, and brought him close to a tender and lengthy kiss.

For Daniel, it was as if time held perfectly still with Steven’s lips on his and their mouths moving in tandem together.

When the kiss broke, Daniel smiled at Steven, and Steven smiled back.

“And thank you, Brutus," Steven said. “I want to help in any way I can to run the club, though I don’t know if I have it in me yet to do more than just finances.”

“Well, then I guess that’s settled," Brutus said. “I’ll notify the owner of the club, and get Frank to get his lawyer on the horn so we can do this. Though, what are we going to call the place? We can’t keep the old name, but it was never a really good one anyway.”

“Hm,” Daniel pondered. “Perhaps it is my lack of creativity at the moment but I can only think of one thing.”

“What’s that?” Brutus asked

“I mean, it’s… no, it’s too obvious.” Daniel said.

“No, please. Say it.” Steven urged.

Daniel sighed. “There was a pub I remember. When I was a boy I would sneak off there sometimes. The owners were a fox and a badger and they called it the Badger and Fox. Seemed plain to me but I remember falling in love with the two of them. And I knew then, like how I knew how it was for me, that they liked each other a little more than friends usually do. The way they’d look at one another, they way they touched.

“And they always had the best chips.” Daniel smiled.

“So, you’re thinking maybe the Gazelle and the Lion?” Steven said, his ears perking up and his auburn eyes glinting in the afternoon light.

“No… No, babe. The Lion and the Gazelle.” Daniel smiled at Steven.

Steven smiled.

Daniel sighed. “Yes, I think that should be the name.”

It was a Sunday afternoon in the small one-bedroom apartment that the gazelle called home. The sun was only a few hours after its peak and the shadows it cast were growing longer. The window was open and carrying a soft breeze that cooled the room where Daniel and Steven were discussing something.

“So, you purr?” Daniel asked wearing a baggy jumper and boxer shorts standing next to the lion sitting on the couch. “But, I didn’t think lions purred.”

“We don’t tend to.” Steven, in a pair of sweatpants, shied away slightly in his posture. “I don’t really like it, but it happens sometimes.”

“Why do you not like it? It makes you special.”

“I’ve been bullied about it a lot.” Steven said, rubbing his neck idly. “It started in grade-school. The kids would taunt me for purring like a little kitten.”

“Kids can be so cruel sometimes.”

“Yeah… and I couldn’t control it. If I was happy, I purred.”

“Oh dear. Did you try to hide it?”

“As best I could.”

“Well, here’s a thought.” Daniel mused. “Would it be something you want to work on?”

“What do you mean?”

“It could be a temporary thing if you want to, but I could command that if you need to purr, then you purr.”

“I don’t know.” Steven mulled.

“Only if you’re comfortable with it, but, I think it would do you some good to express yourself.”

Steven sat pensively for a moment, his fidgeting hands betraying his inner questioning. Though eventually he let them rest on his knees and looked at Daniel. “I guess I can try.” He said, “If it would make you happy, I think I’d like to.”

“Not for me, honey. This is for you.”

“I’m… not sure I’m used to this.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’m just not used to choosing.” Steven said, running his hand through his stubbled mane. “And when John…” he trailed off.

“It’s okay, Steven. You’re free of him now. And you get to choose.”

Steven looked at Daniel’s steel blue eyes. Then looked away. “It would be so much simpler if I didn’t have to.”

“Is that why you like kink?”

Steven eventually nodded. “I think so, but I’m not sure.”

“If you don’t want to play like that with me, I will understand.”

Steven blinked, and looked at Daniel, insecurity crossing his brow.

“With me, if you’re not okay with it, then you’re off limits for that sort of thing. Simple as.”

Steven smiled, then his eyes were cast down and his face slackened. “But, if I’m not sure I want to play like that, will you still want me around?”

“I like you. Not what you can do for me.” Daniel stood “Though as you mentioned, it can be fun.”

“It can.” Steven said, then looked at Daniel and smiled.

Daniel blushed, unsure what to do in the moment. Then he shook his head and sobered up “Well, it won’t happen until we have a good conversation about it.”

“Isn’t that what we’re having now?” Steven asked.

Daniel was again unsure what to say.

“I want to play with you. Just, I don’t want to dive into the deep end.”

“Well, that’s reasonable.” Daniel sat next to Steven. “And you always get to choose when to stop things.”

“Huh? But.”

“No, if you’re my pet, you always have the choice. Even if you want to submit to me, you always have the freedom to stop things if you need it to stop.”

“I thought.”

Daniel leaned into Steven’s shoulder. “If this is about how John treated you, please understand that I am not like him. I believe in consent… and safety, and it being sane.”

“Sane?”

“Well, I want the person to be of their right mind when they submit. It wouldn’t feel right to me otherwise.”

“Is that why you didn’t want to make love to me that night?”

Daniel paused, then said “Yes. It felt like I would be taking advantage of you.”

Steven sat for a bit, then spoke “If I were to submit, what would you want me to submit to?”

Daniel was silent for a moment. “Well, nothing that would require a first-aid kit after.” Daniel looked at the wounds buried in Steven’s fur. “I mean, sure, some people like that kinda thing, but it’s not for me.”

Steven offered a relieved sigh and pulled Daniel closer “I’m kinda glad. I mean, I guess I like a softer touch.”

Daniel smiled, and leaned into Steven’s muscular arm, holding on to his hand with both of his. “I’m glad we’re able to talk about this.”

Steven smiled and rested his head against Daniel’s. “I am too.”

They sit for a while.

“So, Steven. When you say you like a softer touch, what do you like? I mean, what is it that you would want?”

“I don’t know all of what I like. There’s some ideas I’ve had but so far they’re just fantasies.”

“Well, tell me.”

“I… kinda like being restrained.” Steven blushed. “And I sometimes like to be spanked. If I’ve been… bad.”

“So you’re a bit of a brat?”

“I don’t think so,” Steven paused, “I just prefer when things are clearly outlined.”

“Oh, same.” Daniel said, a smile growing on his lips. “I also like when I know where I can and can’t go.”

“So, what do you usually like when things are over?” Daniel asked.

“Hm?”

“For after. Like, do you need alone time or do you need intimacy when the scene is over?”

“I’m not sure. I’ve never been asked that before.”

“Well, for me, I like closeness.”

“I think I would like that too.” Steven said.

“And depending on what we get into, if I push a soft boundary a little hard, I do like to be reassured that I’m not some kind of monster. That it was wanted.”

“A what boundary?”

“You know, things you’re not sure you’re comfortable with but might decide to test the waters sometime down the line. Or a boundary that’s otherwise off limits unless certain conditions are met.”

“Oh.” Steven sighed. “This is a bit more complicated than I was led to believe.”

“Its kinda necessary sometimes. There’s a lot to be wary about.”

“I know.” Steven said as his eyes turned downward.

“Wouldn’t be the first time a predator has abused the language of kink.” Daniel said, a sigh escaping his chest.

“I was almost afraid to go to the club that night.” Steven said, stroking Daniel’s hand in his. “I’m glad it was you that came up to me first.”

“Honestly, I saw you and wanted you on the spot.” Daniel laughed. “It seems silly now, but it was all so selfish of me.”

“I don’t think so. And you were respectful.”

Daniel smiled a little wider. “So, Steven. If… he hadn’t interrupted, do you think I would have had you in my bed that night?”

“If you’d have asked.” Steven trailed off with a smile.

Daniel grinned. “If you’re flirting with me, please know that it’s working.”

“Would you like to spend some time together?” Steven asked.

Daniel looked at Steven, his smile soft. “Only if you want to,” he said.

“I…” Steven’s breathing caught in his throat momentarily. “I think I do.”

“I would love to, though it doesn’t have to be kinky. And you do have stitches to mind.”

“May it start with a kiss?”

Daniel leaned up, looked at the lion and saw his auburn eyes watching him hopefully.

Then Daniel reached over, grasping Steven’s cheek gently and reached over to place a soft kiss on his lips.

Steven responded by purring, and his hand reached up to hold Daniel close as he responded with his own kiss that was equally soft, but urgent in that it called forth from his lover a weakly restrained desire to kiss more ardently.

The two shared this moment together, as their hands started to explore their bodies carefully, tenderly, and with great caution for Steven’s wounds.

The kiss continued, this time now their tongues were exploring each other’s mouths, their hands urging each other closer, pressing their bodies together.

It wasn’t until Daniel felt an exploring hand gently brush up against the base of his tail. The touch was so fleeting and light. But it was enough to elicit a shiver from the gazelle and Daniel responded with his own hands gently roaming further down towards Steven’s hips, to pause there. Gently circling his fingers around the fur just above his waistband.

Steven’s purr was the response that Daniel had hoped for and served as encouragement for him to part the kiss.

Daniel’s breath was haggard from the passion and anticipation of what he was to ask; “Would you prefer if we retire to the bedroom?”

Daniel’s heart was beating a hard staccato in his chest, each pump enervating him, making his arms tremble in anticipation of what he hoped would come.

“I think I would like that.” Steven purred and urged Daniel’s lips to meet with his, resuming their previous engagement.

When the kiss parted, they made their way to the bedroom and were barely on the bed before they were kissing again, this time more ardently, as if a keg had been tapped and they were slaking a deep thirst. Their breaths, coming in huffs and pants, matching their almost frantic touching to get clothing off of one another.

When Steven had the sweatpants off, Daniel had the sweatshirt off and when he looked to Steven, he saw the arousal that the lion was showing for him. An arousal that was matched with his own member as firm as iron.

“Oh babe.” Daniel said as he admired the lion’s nude body. The wounds were closing and healing nicely, and the stitches would need to be removed soon. “You are beautiful.”

Steven at first blushed, but then his purring ramped up as he looked at Daniel’s now nude body. “May I please you, my queen?”

“You already please me.” Daniel paused. “Are you sure you want this? I mean, we can just fool around if you want.”

“No, I want you to say it.” Steven crawled closer, to place another kiss on Daniel’s lips. “My queen, please.” He smiled.

“My pet.” Daniel said after a brief pause. “I… yes, for now at least, you can be my pet.”

“So, what would you like your pet to do for you?” the lion offered.

Daniel thought for a moment. The possibilities were endless, but for now, he settled on something a little less intense than what his imagination was coming up with.

“I think I would like you to service me.” Daniel said as he brushed his hand down his body to stroke along his stiffened member.

He sat back on the bed, and let the lion’s eyes take in the full sight of his queen and the full arousal that he was granted permission to service.

“All ways.” Daniel said, lifting a leg slightly and using a hand to pull his ass cheek apart, showing off a hint of his entrance. “If you’re okay with it, that is.” He quickly added.

Steven chuckled, then bowed his head “If it would please my queen, I will gladly service all parts of you.”

Daniel’s heart skipped a beat, but before he could think over the scenario playing out, Steven’s lips were on his before he could say anything. And instead of trying to fight it, to say something to urge the lion on, he let himself fall into the kiss as deeply as Steven was willing to give it.

Steven eventually started nibbling at Daniel’s jawline. Then his neck. Then the chest. And finally nipples where he would lick and gently bite at them which elicited a shuddering gasp from Daniel each time.

Daniel’s inhaled sharply, his breath catching in his throat as he reached up to grasp at the lion’s head. He stroked and pet Steven’s head as the lion continued his slow migration south.

Steven’s tongue eventually made it’s way down to Daniel’s crotch and for a brief moment he paused. He sniffed at the rigid member, and then looked up to Daniel’s steel-blue eyes that were narrowed from the passion.

Daniel nodded softly, urging the lion to continue.

And continue he did. He took that moment to engulf the entirety of the meat before him into his mouth.

Daniel threw his head back as his breathing came through heavy while a short moan escaped his throat. The lion purred at hearing it, and continued his savoring of the gazelle’s most intimate and private place.

Daniel’s voice was ragged and his moans from the intensity of the moment, were ragged. His breathing was thick. His toes were curling. And his hands, which were on the lion’s head, were stroking and holding him close.

“I’m close, babe.” Daniel’s voice cracked through. “Do you want me to finish, or do you want more?”

“Mm.” Steven pulled off Daniel’s cock to speak. “I will go wherever you want me to go.”

“Yes, but are you comfortable with it? Like, I don’t want you to think you have to if you really don’t want it.”

“Daniel, I want to.” Steven smiled, amused. “I want to go as far as you’re willing to take me.”

“Well then.” Daniel laughed, then moaned as Steven’s mouth dove down against to slip the gazelle’s member into his mouth once more. “I’d like you inside me.”

“Do you have condoms?” Steven asked as he pulled of again, and Daniel nodded.

“Bed-side table, top drawer.”

Steven reached over to the drawer and pulled it open. He saw what he was looking for, and grabbed one.

“Is this lube?” Steven asked, pointing to a small flip-top bottle. Daniel nodded.

“Be generous, it’s been a while.” Daniel urged. “You know, here… give them to me.”

Steven obeyed and handed the condom and bottle of lube to Daniel.

“Now, it’s my turn.” Daniel said as he coaxed the lion to sit back on the bed.

Daniel noticed the erection on the lion and smiled. “I’m definitely going to need lube.” He said as he leaned forward to kiss Steven.

Steven responded with a purr and reached his hands around Daniel’s back to hold him close.

Daniel, while kissing, decided to rest his body against the lion’s supine form and when his erection pressed up against Steven’s, he reached down and grasped the two rods in his hand and gently stroked them. He pressed them in his grip closer, much like how the kiss urged the two of them to hold their bodies similarly.

The lion’s purr at this sensation, feeling the warmth of his lover’s hand was more than welcome and his purring ramped up with every stroke. Daniel’s body was pressed against Steven’s. Daniel’s hands having become slick from the juices that both of them were leaking continued the slow rhythmic pace.

The lion was close. “I… I think I’m going to if you don’t stop.” He said as the kiss parted. His breathing and his purring coming faster and harder now as he dove his head up to catch his lover’s lips in his.

“Then let’s do this.” Daniel said, a grin on his face as he slowly leaned up and slid off the lion’s body to better prepare.

Daniel took the condom and unwrapped it. Then he placed it on the tip of the lion’s member. He rolled it down slowly, sensually. When he was finished, he took a small squirt of lube and put it against his entrance, and wiggled a finger in to make it ready to take the lion’s meat. When he was satisfied that he was ready, he straddled the lion’s hips and grabbed the wrapped member and slickened it with what lube remained on his hands.

Steven’s eyes rolled up in his head from the attention, and the anticipation. His ragged purr was constant and his eyes were narrowed from the delight. And when Daniel started lowering himself on the lion’s staff, Steven gasped, but held himself still.

And Daniel was glad for it as there was enough thickness to cause some measure of pain at the intrusion. He needed to hold himself in place for a few long and measured breaths so his body could adjust to the lion’s girth. When Daniel finally felt his body relent, and the pain receded, he lowered himself further down. It wasn’t until he felt the inner ring give way that he gasped as Steven’s member then slid almost effortlessly into the gazelle’s eager confines.

When Daniel’s hips finally rested against Steven’s, he sighed deeply. “It’s been too fucking long.” He groaned and then started to gyrate his hips up and down, massaging every secret spot deep inside his body, setting off a swirling fire of pleasure that danced in his gut.

Steven took this as a chance to start bucking himself up into the rear of his lover, and placed his hands on Daniel’s hips to help urge the slow rhythm forward. Every beat of their hearts amplified by their motions, neither of them separating, and the warmth in their groins started to bring the two of them closer to the precipice.

“I want to.” Steven urged. “May I?”

“Yes, babe. Do it.” Daniel urged as he started to stroke his own member in time with the motions.

The lion began tensing up. First it was in his core, then his legs and hips. Then his hands grasped at his lover’s hips tightly as he hunched up, and with the gazelle’s stimulation, it was more than the two could handle.

The tension in Steven’s loins became too great and he bared his teeth to then thrust deep and hard to the pits of his lover to unleash himself a few times, grinding deep.

The fireworks that were set off in Daniel’s gut traveled all throughout his body and that was all he needed. To render the one below you so powerless in the throes of ecstasy but also experiencing such a powerful physical intensity, and the pleasure it carried, caused his own tension to build and burst forth, to be released on to the belly of the still hunching lion.

They were awash in the heady drunkenness of their orgasm, and even when they had sated themselves, they still felt the heat suffuse their entire bodies, rendering a slight tingling sensation along the skin.

Daniel collapsed on to the lion, his breathing rough and heady, smearing his mess into their fur without thought. He grasped at Steven’s head and placed his lips on the lion’s.

They kissed as Steven’s softening member eventually slid out of Daniel’s rump, and Daniel inhaled sharply at the sudden absence.

Steven’s purr was soft and gentle as he stroked Daniel’s back. Eventually Daniel rested his head against Steven as he felt the slow rumbling vibrate his skin softly.

“Your purr.” Daniel said. “I really like it.”

“I like that you like it.” Steven said, the rumble getting a bit deeper, and his arms pulling Daniel tighter. “So was that about what I could expect if things get a little more intense?”

“That was softer than I can go.” He turned to look Steven in the eyes. “Why? Would you have liked me to do something more?”

“No. Right now this is just fine.” He said as he pulled Daniel closer into a tight embrace.

Weeks pass and the sale went through without a hitch. Daniel and Steven were the new owners of the newly titled “The Lion And The Gazelle.”

They gathered all the employees and made the announcement. Some were worried about their future there but Daniel and Steven both assured everyone that they were going to keep their jobs. And even better because when Steven had gone through the books, he realized that they could afford to pay them all a better wage and still make a profit.

When the renovations happened, everyone came by to help out, much to the consternation of the contractor who was more than prepared with a very well trained team.

The renovations were completed faster, and to everyone’s satisfaction, than Daniel thought it would be. And when he came through the door that first time for the big reveal he was speechless.

The room was furnished darkly and there were round bench seats around the area with a large dance floor and go-go-dancer cages next to the stage. The smell was of fresh wood, leather, and varnish and everything was impeccably clean.

“It’s perfect” Daniel said to Brutus and his feline partner as they were already waiting inside.

“I know. This is definitely an upgrade from what it was before," Brutus said. “The contractors outdid themselves.”

“We should tip them," Daniel said. “We can afford to, right?” He asked Steven.

“We can. Though is that even appropriate?” Steven said.

“And will you look at the stage?” Frank said. “All the bells and whistles included.”

“Ooh, very posh!” Daniel said to the cat. “I hope we can get some good talent for the two of you.”

“Well, let me know when you do. I may not be a fan of the meat-market, but I do love some cabaret. A little burlesque, perhaps." Frank grinned.

“This is probably the best equipped bar I’ve ever worked at," Dimitri, who was looking around, said. “Two speed rails… you’re expecting us to be swamped?”

“If things go well," Steven said. “Which reminds me, I was able to get in touch with the wineries and they’re willing to set us up with a good spread.”

“Wine?” Daniel said, but then saw Frank’s eyes widen. “Oh yeah, you prefer that don’t you, Frank," To which he nodded eagerly.

“Well, wine is fine, but liquor is quicker," Brutus added.

“Oh shush, you… you know I don’t drink to get drunk," Frank playfully chided his ursine partner. “And having wine will elevate the atmosphere.”

“Well, give me a good scotch and I’ll be happy," Brutus said. “You do have good scotch on hand, right? The previous owner only bought the cheap stuff.”

“Top-shelf all the way, baby!” Daniel added playfully. “Picture this, an 18 year old barrel-aged scotch, poured into a proper snifter and not just a shot-glass," Brutus’s eyes lit up with that. “Though I know you two have a bottomless tab, try to not bankrupt us by drinking all the good stuff.”

Brutus and Frank both laughed. “No worries, we’re not lushes," Frank said.

“Well, anyway, if everything is set to go, let’s get this party started," Daniel said with raised arms

***

The opening night fast approached. Word had spread all around the gay village and by those that were in the know. It was the talk of the scene for quite some time.

Daniel stood on stage and the entire staff was present.

“Okay, folks. This is the big day," Daniel said to the gathered crowd. “I’m so glad that all of you decided to stick with us, but it’s now time to get back to it.”

“So, what’s with the parade you have advertised on the flyers?” Dimitri asked.

“Oh, that? It’s a mixer, basically. We’re going to put doms that are looking for playmates up on stage and let the audience decide who they want to bring home with them tonight.”

“Are staff allowed to go on?” He asked with a hopeful grin on his face.

“I am sorry, but if you’re scheduled to work, you will need to be at your stations. Though, if you wanted to arrange to swap shifts with someone…” Daniel trailed off.

“I think I might," Dimitri said. Turning to the red wolf that stood next to him. “Hey Carlos, you want to cover close?” he grinned.

“Anyhow, let’s get back to the subject at hand now shall we?” Daniel cooed. “We only have space for three seats at a time and the dress code will be formal. So you will be expected to dress the part.”

“That I can do, no problem," Dimitri grinned.

“Well, excellent. We at least have one dom to put on display now," Daniel said. “You will be expected to put on a display for them. Nothing serious, maybe a little demonstration of your skills. Nothing too saucy though," He paused, scanning the eyes on him. “We don’t want the cops crashing the party on our first night.”

Murmurs and chuckles spread around the room.

“So, if you know anyone looking for a good time, no, not that kind, and they have this Friday free, let them know," Daniel said before hopping off the stage and joining Steven who was sitting at the bar with Brutus and Frank.

“I think that went well," Daniel said.

“You’re giving them a raise, and putting on a show. Of course it went well," Brutus added.

“I hope that the night goes off without a hitch," Steven said. “It would not be a good first-impression if things went badly.”

“I hope so too," Daniel said as he reached over to place a peck on Steven’s cheek.

***

The days came and went fast, and Daniel, having given his two-weeks notice to his old job three weeks ago was practically vibrating with excitement.

He stood back-stage behind the curtain looking out at the sea of bodies on the dance floor. The music was heavy and intense, as was to be expected, and the thrones that were lined up on the stage were ready to be occupied.

“Hey, Daniel” Brutus called from the side of the stage. “We have another hopeful for the meet and greet.”

“Oh lovely, let’s see them," And when Daniel saw who it was, he knew he had to say something. “Charles! Darling, how have you been?” he asked the waiting snow leopard in a bespoke black business suit.

“Lovely as usual, my dear," He said as he went to embrace Daniel. “I’m so glad we managed to square away our first mistake of an encounter.”

“I’m glad too.”

“So, I get that you’re probably busy, but if it would be possible, I’d like to get a few minutes of your time later.”

“I’ll do what I can.” Daniel said. “Though take a seat because the curtain opens in a minute," Daniel said as he looked at the clock on his phone.

Charles nodded and quickly walked over to one of the available thrones.

When Daniel was ready, he stood in front of the curtain, gripping it. The nerves in his stomach were inflamed and he felt like he was going to throw up, but he swallowed, took a breath and threw open the curtains to bathe in the spotlight and the crowd’s cheers.

Daniel stood there in the light, letting the crowd exhaust itself but when he waved and said hello to everyone there, the crowd roared again.

“Time to put on a show” he whispered to himself.

“Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to The Lion And The Gazelle," Daniel spoke into the microphone to the dance floor filled with bodies. “It’s time to say… after a long time and much heartache, we are all pleased to announce the grand re-opening is finally here.”

The crowd applauded.

“And I have a treat for you all tonight," He grinned, flashing his teeth to the crowd. “Because tonight is a very special night for us, we wanted to make it a very special night for you as well.”

He gestured to Brutus off stage and the curtain slowly parted showing the three thrones with three bodies sitting on them.

“My beloved guests, tonight we are going to have a mixer. A sort of audition. If you’re looking for someone, then you are in luck.”

Daniel marched proudly towards each of the thrones and introduced them to the crowd.

When he reached Charles, the snow leopard decided to speak up.

“I would like to step down," He said.

Daniel paused, mulled the new situation over for a brief moment, then said to the crowd “It is incredibly unfortunate that we’re losing one of our hottest candidates right out of the gate.”

“I think it would be better to get someone else up here," Charles said as he stood. “Now, who will you choose to replace me?” He looked to Daniel.

“Well, folks, who wants to be put on display?” he asked to the waiting crowd and within seconds arms shot up.

“Oh… okay… you. The tiger. You’ll do nicely," Daniel gestured to the stairs at the side of the stage. “Come up and assume the position," He said salaciously to the crowd’s laughter. “And don’t worry, as the seats are evacuated, if you want to be on stage, you will have a chance. So, let’s get this party started!”

The first pass of individuals came and went, and they all found someone to spend time with for the night. Booths and chairs were filled, conversations were had, and the mood seemed light and jovial while the music played.

***

Daniel decided to take a break from his duties and went to the booth that Charles had chosen to sit down in.

“So, you’re not on the market?” Daniel asked Charles as he took a seat across from the snow leopard. “why’d you take the stage?”

“I like the pushy ones," Charles grinned.

“Oh, so that’s why you tried to snag me," Daniel said.

Charles nodded. “And if I end up lonely at the end of the night, so be it," He sipped at the bottle of beer he had in front of him. “It’s a pity, you had such potential.”

“I didn’t have it in me and you know it.”

“So, have you taken anyone on lately?”

“Not since I met Steven," Daniel cooed softly with his chin resting on tented arms.

“How’s he been?” Charles asked. “Devoted, I assume… but.”

“He’s getting there. He’s doing so much better. It took a long time just to get him to relax.”

“Yeah… poor guy. I heard the rumors. You’ve been wonderful for him," Charles drained the bottle of beer in front of him. “A big squishy hunk of a lion who never learned to roar.”

“That’s almost poetic. Did you rehearse it?”

“A bit, it’s the truth though.”

“I lost my shit when I saw what happened to him. Had to work damn hard to keep myself from—”

“Would’ve crushed him if he saw you snap. You can be a holy terror.”

“Yeah…” Daniel sighed. “That wasn’t the worst though. He was broken in a bad way… and you only know what you heard.”

“Please don’t say more. It’s not that I don’t care, but I can’t hear it right now” his voice wavered slightly. “Image, and all that.”

“Sorry.”

The two sat in silence for a few seconds until a server brought a plate of drinks, and Daniel snatched a martini. “Thank you Carlos.” He said.

“So…” Charles said as Daniel took a sip. “How’s the family?”

Daniel dreaded the question, especially the dreadful way it was asked. His eyes widened and a restrained sigh puffed his cheeks.

“Mum’s… mum. Sisters are okay.”

The two would have continued their private conversation but were prevented when a hyena wearing a burgundy shirt and jeans came up to stand next to the table looking at Charles.

Charles turned his head, looked the hyena up and down silently, then shooed him away with his fingers.

The hyena turned, took a few steps away, but returned with more courage.

“You say you aren’t looking, but I want to prove my worth.”

“You don’t have to," Charles leaned forward, lighting a pencil-thin cigar, and leaned back as the smoke curled around his whiskers. “I’m not on the market.”

“But," The hyena tried to argue.

“Don’t test me. I’m not the type," Charles said.

Daniel had to work hard to keep the grin off his face. He wasn’t going to ruin the hyena’s chance by intruding on Charles’s performance.

“Master… if you want me to change, I will," The hyena begged “I need you.”

Charles, scowling, extinguished the expensive cigar and stood, his chest proper and rigid, and stared at the hyena.

“First off, your posture is all wrong," Charles said and the hyena straightened up. “And I already told you I’m not looking.”

The hyena moved to speak, to urge this beautiful cat that he was worth it. But Charles, only a few inches shorter, silenced whatever words could be said before they could leave the hyena’s quivering throat.

“And I am not master. I am sir," That last word delivered with such sternness that even Daniel felt its impact.

“Sir," The hyena straightened up. “I wish to be yours, sir.”

“Go away. And don’t waste my time. Your body…” his eyes lazily scanned down to the hyena’s crotch. “Well, your body is… no. You aren’t what I’d want anyway.”

“I will work out, or change my weight, if that is what you want.”

“Why are you still here? You’re not really my type anyway.”

“Liar.” Daniel whispered as he used the rim of his martini glass to hide a smirk.

The hyena, standing there in front of him, was roasting in the heat of his blush.

The snow leopard straightened the lapel of his suit, his golden ring sparkling in the light.

“If you want to redeem yourself for rudely interrupting us, you can start by bringing me a couple beers. Lager. Bottled, not draft," He turned his head to Daniel when the hyena hurried away “I do prefer a good lager.”

“I will have the finest available next time," Daniel politely assured. “There will be a next time?”

“Of course. I wouldn’t dream of missing you.” Charles said, then turned to the Hyena. “You. Go get me two bottles.” And the hyena bounded off without hesitation.

Daniel took this opportunity to move to stand. But Charles reached over and lightly grabbed Daniel’s wrist.

“Oh, I heard through the grapevine of John?” Charles said to Daniel’s now narrowed eyes. “Seems he won’t be able to make it out tonight,”

“He’s not welcome here anyway," Daniel said sternly.

“Well, you don’t have to worry about that anymore because he’s been pinched.”

“Wait, what?”

“Yes. Seems he tried to get another victim and it turned out to be a sting.”

Daniel’s eyes widened and he moved to sit back down. “Okay, tell me all you know.”

“What I can say, at least without risking the case, is that he tried to get into some funny business with an undercover vice-agent," Charles said smiling as he fiddled with his gold ring. “And in their investigation, they learned of his history. Busted it wide open. Feds are all over it as we speak.”

“So you’re telling me this… why?” Daniel said with widening eyes and a chill creeping into his stomach.

“Well, if you were to, say, press charges? That would get their attention. And they’re looking for as much as they can to throw at him.”

“Thanks. I’ll talk about it with Steven but I doubt he’ll want to. And I won’t put him through that again if I have a choice.”

“You really do love him.”

Daniel’s eyes flicked up to Charles, who had scooted up next to the gazelle. The nod that followed was certain, but visible only to the snow leopard.

“He seems strong. You’ve done a lot for him already.”

“It hurts to see him cry.”

“Okay. But still, I think he could handle it," Charles patted Daniel’s knee. “And you can trust me when I say they won’t pry into your… extracurricular activities.”

“Yeah, sure,” Daniel said sarcastically. “One wrong word and the cops will be all over the place.”

“That’s not how it works. You can trust me to not lie.”

“Sure, and do you remember our first night?”

“Okay, after that though. And you set me straight”

“Your beers, sir," The hyena had returned with a tray holding two bottles of beer.

“You’re late, and I’m not your sir. We haven’t discussed that… yet," Charles pulled a beer to his mouth and downed half the bottle, put the bottle on the table, then took the second from the tray to hold.

“You can have the rest of that, if you’re thirsty," Casually gesturing to the half-empty bottle with a beer-holding hand.

“Thank you," The hyena moved to sit in the booth, a beaming grin on his face.

“Did I say you could sit?” the snow leopard’s words froze the hyena. “You have abysmal posture, you take your time, and you don’t seem to have much in the way of discipline," The leopard’s eyes flicked up to stare down the hyena when that last word hit his tongue. “You have a lot of work to do.”

“Yes," The hyena nodded and stood by Charles’s side, his crotch in eye-shot of the snow leopard.

“You can start by keeping the rabble off me while I enjoy a cigar… oh… well, my second cigar, thanks to you.”

“Sorry," The Hyena said.

“Apologies. I won’t have you slacking off even in your grammar. Manners at all time. ‘Sorry’ is not a word I like hearing.”

“Apologies… s-sir?”

“Don’t push it.”

Daniel grinned inwardly, knowing not to ruin the magic by laughing at how the snow leopard’s cock was probably harder than steel right now. “If you will excuse me. A host’s duties never seem to end… and I can’t have you capitalizing on all my attention.” He eventually said.

“Of course. I have important matters to attend to," He said as he pulled out his phone and started scrolling through pictures of naked men. “Busy man these days.”

“That you are, Charles. That you are.”

“So, what’s your name?” Daniel heard Charles ask the hyena before he made his way back to the stage.

***

The night eventually finished and when Daniel and Steven returned to their apartment, Steven took the opportunity to grab hold of Daniel and kissed him deeply. Daniel ran his fingers through Steven’s short mane and kissed him in return.

“Thank you” Steven said. “Tonight was wonderful and I am very proud of you.”

“Mmm, thank you my love. And I am so glad that we didn’t have any party-crashers either," Daniel said. “Though, I was talking with Charles and I think you should talk to him about… John.”

Daniel noticed the shudder that erupted in Steven’s body. “I would rather not," Steven said.

“No, it’s good," Daniel said. “John was arrested.”

Steven nearly stumbled backwards. “You mean… he’s no longer out there?”

Daniel nodded his head. “Apparently he was under investigation.”

Steven sat down on the couch to cradle his head in his hands. “I don’t know.”

“He said they would like to talk to you. They probably want your testimony," Daniel said, placing a hand on Steven’s shoulder. “If it means he gets put away for a long time. We can be free of him. We might get some justice for once.”

“I’ll have to think about it," Steven said as he pulled his head up to look at his lover.

Daniel reached up to stroke Steven’s cheek tenderly. “Whatever you choose, I’ll be there by your side. Always," Daniel said.

Daniel is sitting at the bar when a brown-furred female ermine with shoulder length wavy hair came up and took a seat next to the gazelle.

The ermine gestured to Carlos who was behind the bar and he started preparing a drink. A double shot of tequila in a fluted glass. It’s slid to her waiting hand and she placed a twenty dollar bill on the counter. “Keep the change, Carlos.” She said.

Daniel turns to look at this customer. She looks at him and winks.

“I’m sorry, my dear, but you’re a little different than the usual clients we tend to get in here.”

“I know.” She said, smiled, and took a sniff of the tequila before sipping delicately at the spirit, savouring the flavour profile and swallowing it. “Quality tequila is hard to find.”

“I know. If I hadn’t had Carlos’s and Dimitri’s expertise to help me, I’m not sure if we’d have been able to accommodate you.”

“Well, tell Dimi Cass says hi.” She said.

“Cass? As in Cassandra” Daniel asked, and she nodded. “Well, my name is Daniel and I am pleased to meet you.”

“I know who you are. You are one of the new owners of the club. Thought I should make myself known and drop by for a chat.”

“Ah.” Daniel said, “I abhor having to ask this but… do we know each other?”

“We will.”

“And you are?”

“Cassandra Sideris, owner of The Crop.”

“Ahh, so you’re a fellow business owner.” And Cassandra nodded. “And The Crop, the only lesbian leather bar in the district. Well, hopefully we won’t be in direct competition with one another.”

“I don’t think so. Though, this club is known for having a reputation for being kinky. Is that going to change?”

“No.” Daniel laughed. “This is definitely going to remain a kink bar.”

“Okay. So if you’re looking for some advice, take a few courses; accounting, management, bar tending. Stuff that will keep you out of hot water down the road.”

“Actually, I have someone on the books, and the finances are handled for the next few years at least.”

“Okay, so you’re from money and this is—”

Daniel laughed softly “I am hardly what you would call rich. Some friends are helping with the funds, and my partner is keeping the books balanced.”

“Allright, so you’re not some rich kid that decided they would run a club with daddy’s money.”

“Surely not, and let’s please keep the subject of my father out of the conversation, sweetie.”

“Sweetie, nice. Haven’t been sweetied in a few years at least.” Cassandra smiled.

Daniel was left silent for a moment, then said “I am sorry, please forgive me.”

“No worries. I’m sure you’ve had it tossed at you too a few times.” Cassandra took another sip from the yellow spirit, savoring the taste on her tongue, then swallowing it. “Besides, I’m not here to start shit. I’m trying to see if you’re going to be here a while, and what kind of person you’re like.”

“I hope I’ve passed the test.”

“That’s later.” Cassandra winked. “But you’re a good kid. I like you.”

“So, other than the drink, what brings you around?”

“I was mostly trying to see what sort of club you were about.”

“Well, I do have plans, such as getting some bigger performances on the stage. After that, well, I want to make sure we survive before we think of going further.”

“Further, as in?”

“Well, food service, mainly. Nuts and crisps are fine but I’d like something a little more substantial. And possibly with a decent profit margin.”

“That’s a lot of red-tape.” Cassandra said before taking another sip of her tequila.

“Indeed.” Daniel said as he turned to ask Carlos for a water. “As I said, I’m more concerned with the first few years.”

“Any thoughts to private events?”

“Well, I was thinking about it. We would have to inspect the hard-points for safety.” Daniel stood as he grabbed the bottle of water that Carlos slid over to him. “Though to be fair it’s going to be difficult since the old owner took off with all the props when they sold.”

“Well, if you ever need, we’ve got spares over at my place we can loan out.”

“You’d do that for me?”

“On an as-needed basis. Some of it is my personal collection.”

“I had thought to donate as well but I’m also limited at home too.”

“That’s a pity.” Cass smiled knowingly. “A good dungeon comes in handy sometimes.”

“So, is there a reason for your visit other than sizing up a fellow business owner?”

“Well.” Cass leaned over her drink, studying the bottom of the fluted glass intently. “I’m not sure I should say this, but, you’re a good kid and I wouldn’t want to see you get into trouble.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Just, keep an eye out. I don’t want to assume things but if you are new to the scene, be cautious. Not everyone is safe to play with.”

“If this is about a certain panther, he’s behind bars as we speak.”

Cass blinked. “Wait. He’s?”

“Yes. Unless things change, he’s going to trial.”

Cass turned to Carlos and gestured for a refill on her tequila. “Sorry, but I’m celebrating.”

“This feels inappropriate to ask but I assumed he only liked men.”

“He’s made an appearance at The Crop a few times before. Had to bounce him each time.”

“I’m sorry you had to deal with that.”

“Not the first time we’ve had problems. Though he got real squirrelly when we threatened to call the cops last time.” Cass sipped at her tequila. “I trust if Brutus is square with you, though, you’ll be fine.”

“He did teach me most of what I know.” Daniel gestured to Carlos to pour him a shot of tequila as well. “And we wouldn’t be having this conversation if we had never known each other.”

“Well, in any case, I guess this can be your official welcome to the gayborhood.” Cass said as she offered Daniel her glass raised in a toast.

The two glasses clinked together and the two drained them in tandem.

It had been weeks since the club was re-opened and much like every Friday night since, there was an event.

This one had Steven sitting on a red plush couch on the stage at the club.

Leaning back he smoothed down what had grown back of his mane and smiled as Daniel was pacing and fretting.

“Don’t worry. If you need a breather, say the word and I’ll get you some cover," Daniel eventually leaned in to adjust the black bow-tie that Steven was wearing, then let his eyes wander down the bare chest to the only other piece of clothing that Steven was wearing; a gold lame thong.

“My queen… Daniel… relax. You’ve shown me the ropes and helped me feel so much better with what I am. This crowd doesn’t bother me. If they want to look, let them bask in my radiance," He smiled wide, flashing his impressive teeth.

“A little thick, don’t you think?” Daniel smiled as he folded his arms across his chest.

“Sorry. I’ll be a bit more restrained," Steven replied and sat up.

“Good," Daniel stroked the side of Steven’s face as a purr rattled out of the lion’s chest.

“Though… if you wanted to slip out and…” Steven teased, giving his lover a smile and a wink.

“You really are feeling your oats tonight, honey.”

“When I say it brings me pleasure to be your pet, I’m not lying," Steven leaned forward to whisper in his queen’s ear “I want to show you just how good you’ve helped me feel. You are the best thing in my life.”

“Oh, sweet-talking me, are you?” Daniel looked his pet in the eye. “I love the idea of you telling everyone here what I’d let you do to me…” he was trailing a finger along Steven’s arm “but not tonight. This is a reprieve. Less about our pleasure, and more about the crowds’.”

“So, is that why you want me up here? To make them moist?”

“I know you can… but your role for tonight is actually to be the protector. I need you to keep the normies in check so they keep their hands off the talent.”

“And you believe my presence will ensure that?”

“Your growl is all I need, but everything else is more than welcome… though if the talent tries any funny business.”

“I doubt he’d spoil the magic.”

“It’s not the illusion I’m worried about. He… tends to get ideas sometimes.”

“Understood," Steven nodded. “If you wish to make your claim to me be known, allow me to be your throne.”

“Honestly, That would be hot, but I can’t. I have to work the crowd. Though…” Daniel’s eyes trailed down to Steven’s thong. “I would love to give something else a good working.”

Steven shivered. “Mm… my queen… your words tempt me to disobey… and I am, as you said, ‘feeling my oats.’”

“You want me to spank you?” Daniel’s voice was low, a tremble erupting from his core. “On stage, perhaps?”

Steven’s purr was loud. “If you believe I need discipline, please provide it.”

“Perhaps I should borrow someone’s flogger?” Daniel leaned in to whisper into Steven’s ear, nearly causing the lion’s thong to risk bursting. “While it would be nice, I can’t.”

“Do I need to disobey?” Steven teased as he leaned back, spreading his legs just enough so that his covered groin was exposed.

“Duties, duties, duties.” Daniel huffed as he sat down to join his pet on the couch, straddling his hips and draping his arms around Steven’s shoulders. “You’ve been so randy lately that I’d swear I haven’t been taking care of you well enough.”

“You have taken exceptional care of me, but I want more. I want to show you my devotion by…” Steven leaned closer, whispering explicit words into the tall ears of his lover. When he leaned back, he ground his hips up slightly to drive the intensity of his yearning home, sliding a hand along his queen’s waist.

“Ooh, I really want to. Believe me," Daniel smiled wide as his eyes narrowed. “But not right now.”

“Please?” Steven begged, a pitiful grin on his lips that melted into a smile as he slowly hunched his firming cock into his queen’s hips.

“Don’t make me tie you down. It’d ruin the image I’m going for," Daniel got up and stepped away from the lap of his pet as Steven whined softly. “I promise you’ll get what’s coming to you.”

“If my queen wills it.”

“And your queen does will it. Tonight you are decoration. The centerpiece. Remember that.”

“Of course, my queen," Steven bowed his head and straightened his posture.

“No, don’t sit up. Lean back, relax. Spread your legs a bit and maybe drape your arm across the couch. Make it look like you own the joint.”

“I will obey," Steven said as he reclined back. And when he saw his queen’s gaze drawn to his crotch, he forced it to twitch.

“Nice. But keep that part restrained. People might think you’re asking for it.”

“I am.”

Daniel was rendered speechless. Surely this was a sign that his efforts have been paying off. But rather than let his mind sway to the lewd images trying to tempt him to action, he leaned in to stroke his pet’s thigh. “Let’s make this a formal challenge. Be my champion tonight… and keep it in your pants. How you perform will dictate whether you are rewarded, or punished.”

Steven’s purr rose up. “Aren’t you afraid I will disobey?”

“I know you won’t," Daniel winked, then pranced off with a giggle to leave the massive lion with the onus of looking the part he was tasked with.

Daniel, as excited as he was, was a bundle of nerves. He got this way, and he usually turned that anxiety into an energy that got shit done. But, despite his confidence in his pet’s ability to perform, this was something that he knew would be a challenge for him.

Bravery before the show often failed when the spot-lights were turned on you. And this was Steven’s first time on stage.

Steven had come so far, and Daniel was recalling how different he was now from what he used to be. It had only been months since he escaped from John and had been making excellent progress with the help of the therapist that Brutus had recommended.

Daniel was already in the back and about to enter the door with a glitter-encrusted star taped to it when he heard a shriek.

His head whipped around and he shrieked just as keenly.

“Oh, my god, honey! It has been forever!” the red fox wearing an enormous brown wig and a shimmery mauve dress was careening up to hug Daniel. Then when they separated, the fox looked Daniel right in the eye and said “You’ve gained weight.”

Daniel laughed and replied “Nice try, Sandra, but you know I’m thinner than you.”

“Is that what you think I was doing? Making a subtle jab at your voluptuousness?” Sandra gasped and brought a hand up to his mouth mockingly “And here I thought you knew me better than that.”

“I do know you better than that. But it’s okay, I love you anyway.”

“And I love you too.” Sandra smiled, then nudged closer to quietly ask: “So, who’s the bouncer?”

“The lion on stage?” Daniel asked and Sandra nodded. “He’s mine. And he’s on the job.”

“Do you really think I would try to steal him?”

Daniel tilted his head at his friend. “I know you’d try. And don’t test me on this, I am the lord of this hall.”

“Mhm," Sandra nodded. “You don’t have to break out the routine. Besides, you know I have someone at home waiting for me.”

“How is Mavis anyway?”

“Good, good. She’s been asking about you.”

“Like, the family kind of asking? Or the fun kind?”

“Yes," Sandra grinned.

“Well, my schedule is pretty full so it might be a while… but make sure you tell her I miss her too.”

“She knows. She was raving for weeks after you tied her up that time.”

“Oh really?” Daniel asked amused. “Do you want to borrow some cuffs?”

“What kind of girl do you think I am?” Sandra paused, grinned, “I have three pairs now.”

Daniel laughed “Oh dear, seems you might have been bitten by the bug.”

“Once in a while it is fun," Sandra leaned in. “So… Is that him?”

Daniel nodded gleefully.

“Ooh, you said you found a gorgeous lion, I thought you were bluffing.”

“I know. Sometimes I can’t believe it myself. He is a fucking dreamboat.”

“Yes, he is. You think he’d be up for a little fun after?”

“If he’s down for it, maybe we could… you know… have a little party later," Daniel leaned in just enough to kiss the blushing fox.

Sandra gasped as he pulled back, making a fanning motion with his hand. “You’re going to make me pop my tuck, honey.”

Daniel laughed and Sandra couldn’t resist joining in.

“Though, as much as I would love nothing more than to spend eternity with you catching up, I’m going out of my mind with all I have to do tonight. And you know how it is. The show—”

“Must go on," Sandra finished with a flourish and a bow.

“That it must. We can catch up after.”

“I dread the moment," Sandra scoffed mockingly.

“Shady," Daniel said before they both laughed “Oh I so love you, honey.”

“Love you too. Now if it would please the lord of the hall” Sandra curtsied facetiously “I’ve gotta finish beating this face into shape. And this dress. No, Mavis is a doll, but I had to use three sets of pads just to fill it out.”

“It looks good on you," Daniel winked, letting the subtle jab land.

“Mhm," Sandra intoned while staring down the gazelle. “Wait, what am I doing? I don’t have to prove myself to you. I’m a god-damn super-star," he raised his arms above his head. “You’ve got things to do, and since I don’t want to disappoint my fans… shoo. Go away, honey.”

“Fine… Oh, do you want the usual? I can even have my pet hold your drink on stage for you? I think it’d look really hot.”

“Tempting, but I’m good. Three weeks sober now.”

“Aw," Daniel swooned. “Well, I won’t lead you astray.”

“Good girl," Sandra reached over to pat Daniel’s head mockingly.

“Knock their fucking socks off," Daniel stressed with a wide smile.

“I always do!” Sandra said before closing the door.

The show went off flawlessly. Sandra Thighs, as always, was one of the finest performers the club had seen in a long time and the room roared as the star of the show tossed their massive wig into the crowd at the end.

Everyone was happy, and immersed in the magic. The crowd was mingling, finishing up their drinks and getting ready to go when almost as if on cue there was a deep voice trying to break through the din.

“Weee-eee-eee-eee ah-weee-eee-eee-eee…” heads turned to look. “Ah weee umm umm ah way.”

Daniel’s joyful eyes lost all compassion and a fire started to brew within his guts while Steven, looking stern on the throne, fought to stop himself from running. His eyes gave away the terror he felt in that moment, and his claws dug into the plush arms of the couch he sat on.

And only his queen saw it. A look he wished he never had to see cross his pet’s face ever again.

He turned to find who he knew was singing that damned song.

“Wee-eee-eee-eee ah-weee-eee-eee-eee…” Daniel’s fists were so tight that no blood could make it through the skin of his knuckles as he heard it again. He was marching up to the panther and in his face as he finished his song “Ah weee ummm ummm ah way.”

“You need to leave… Now," Daniel said in his firmest tone, barely reeled back from an outright scream, to the dismissive panther’s face.

“But the party’s finally getting started," John sneered. “I have arrived.”

“I’ll call the cops if that’s what you want. I’m sure they’d love to shove you back in that tiny cell they kept you cooped up in.”

“I’m out on bail. Pricey, but oh so worth it," The panther’s cold eyes frozen in that infuriatingly aloof look pierced through Daniel to rest on Steven. “I just had to see him.”

Daniel, trying very hard to keep the rage boiling inside from spilling out, gritted his teeth.

“Oh, is the lord getting angry?” The panther chided “Am I going to face his punishment?”

“Fuck off. This isn’t a scene.”

“You sure are causing one.”

“This is OUR fucking club now, John. I will do what I need to do to keep them safe from you.”

“Kink-shaming? That’s a low, even for you.”

The slap was loud, and every phone that crept out to catch the scene on its camera caught all of it.

“Ooh, that hurt,” John sneered, looking down his muzzle at Daniel while he licked at the blood from the split lip he was given. “Mmm. Foreplay. Nice. I would return the favor but I know you’re not into it,” he bent forward, never letting his cold and unmoving eyes break sight with Daniel’s. “I’m just here to make my presence known, and to let you know that I know you’re the one that ratted me out,"

“You just can’t let go, can you. He isn’t yours, he never was, and he never will be," Daniel was fuming, so close to losing all control and beating the hell out of the smug panther.

“Oh are you sure about that? I seem to recall how delightful his whimpers were," The panther’s voice took on a mocking childlike tone. “‘Please, I promise I’ll do what you say, just stop hurting me,’” He paused, to the crowd’s silent horror. “Oh that gets me real hard thinking about it. That useless piece of meat on stage? He’s nothing. He always was. He’s just another bitch.”

“Someone get me a phone. NOW!” Daniel shouted as the fire in his belly started pouring out in steaming huffs.

“Oh no!” the panther’s face scrunched up in a mockery of fear. “Don’t call the cops," and then the facade dropped. “I must have really hurt your feelings… Good.”

Daniel was already dialing 911 the moment a phone could be snatched from an offering hand.

“Hmm, well, this kind of pathetic scene isn’t my thing anyway," John finished.

When the panther turned to leave, the crowd parted to give him space. Whether it was because they couldn’t stand the thought of touching him, or because they were afraid to didn’t matter to the panther. He had done what he wanted to and now he was done. He had no use for them anymore and he pulled the door open so hard that it slammed against the wall and the stained glass inlaid in the window cracked.

Daniel told the urgent voice of the operator that eventually answered what happened, and ten minutes later a police car was in front of the club with paparazzi sniffing close behind.

The magic of the night was gone. Despite attempts to get it to return, even with rounds of drinks provided on the house, nothing helped.

***

When Daniel and Steven finally got back home, no longer in the cool of the night, the air in their apartment was stifling. Its warmth did little to quell the shiver in their bodies.

Steven was silent. His face frozen in an impassive expression, but his eyes betrayed him. His queen knew he was well past his limit. Steven had experience withdrawing into himself, but he could contain only so much.

When the door closed, Daniel turned to comfort his pet.

“I’m so, so sorry," He said as he reached up to hold Steven’s cheeks in his hands. A tear crept out from his eyes.

Pressing their foreheads close, he tried to coax the fear he knew his pet was feeling away from him. The hope that his touch would do it, that Steven could feel safe being held by him, didn’t seem enough to break him from the thousand-yard stare he was trapped in.

But soon Steven’s shivering became a tremble, then shaking. And his queen felt all of it. Soon, the tears Steven was holding in rolled out of his eyes to melt into the fur of his cheeks. The lion who learned to give himself permission to be confidant and secure was gone and in his place was a crumpled pile of fur on the floor of the apartment, sobbing into the arms of his lover.

Daniel was doing all he could to assure his pet that he wasn’t in danger anymore, but the fears planted deep in Steven’s mind refused to budge. Daniel cradled Steven’s head close to his heart, but even the memories of the love they shared couldn’t do anything to soften the pain tearing into them with its jagged bites.

And in Daniels heart there was a terrible sadness, but also anger. A roiling anger that robbed him of his strength. It was an anger that he knew he had to fight with all his power to keep under control because he knew that his pet needed his tender side. So fight he did, and thankfully for the both of them it was enough to keep the dainty gazelle from screaming… but oh did he want to.

Daniels eyes welled up and the sob that came out of him crashed into his lover, mingling their pain.

In that moment they were powerless. In the face of anguish’s retribution at being denied for so long, it finally had its feast… and none alive could defy it’s hunger.

The night had been a long one and the sky outside their apartment window gave way to the radiant pinks and purples of the dawn. But as much as the sun may have tried to bring them comfort, a glimmering of hope that things could get better, the two were unreachable. The shadow hanging over them was impenetrable and their faces never felt the sun’s gentle prayer.

A week had passed since the show at the club.

Daniel and Steven tried their best to return to some routine of normalcy, but Steven still had moments where he would tremble, remembering all John had done to him and now to their relationship, and Daniel had moments of indecision and self-doubt where he worried how he should have handled it.

There was a haze around the two of them that shrouded their world from sight.

The coming Saturday was an event for charity. Though they weren’t expected to go, they did attend. And while the weather was matching their mood with it’s hazy grey and chilly skies, the two of them were welcomed by quite a few warm faces.

Sandra and Mavis the foxes were both there, as Sandra had agreed to perform and Mavis worked at the charity.

And Brutus and Frank were also there, as they were part-time volunteers.

But Daniel and Steven still had to work to put a smile on.

Everyone that they met greeted them warmly and with extra care that day. They all knew what had gone down because they were either there to see it, or they saw it from all the gossip it caused online.

Still, by the end of the day Daniel and Steven eventually found something to smile about.

After the walk, they retired to The Crop to celebrate.

The change of scenery did them good. Neither of them wanted to be reminded of the previous week’s events, and the conversations had already started the second they arrived at the bar.

“How much did we raise this year?” Daniel asked Mavis.

“Enough to keep the lights on for awhile," she said, her husky voice joyful.

“Either that’s a lot, or not nearly enough," Daniel commented.

Mavis shook her head. “It’s another year. That’s as best we can hope for.”

“Oh, did you get my donation?” Frank asked.

“We did, and everyone in the office was over the moon when it came in.”

“I’m glad” the slender cat said. “I remember going there when I first came out.”

“That’s where we met.” Brutus said, and Frank nodded.

As the conversation continued, Charles the snow leopard came up with his hyena in tow, who was smiling wide. “So, Daniel. I know we’re not supposed to talk about… him. But, the trial is coming up. Have you given any thought to—”

“Just tell me what I need to know so we can testify," Daniel said quickly.

“Oh, it’s not your testimony I’m concerned about. Yours is as a character witness. It’s Steven’s testimony that will help the most.”

“A jury?” Daniel asked.

“There will be one," Charles said.

“I hope they find him guilty.” Daniel pouted.

“Don’t worry. Steven’s testimony, if he’s willing to come forward with his records of the assault, should help. But all the other evidence is enough to put him away for a while.”

“I still hate how he’s even getting a trial.” Daniel scowled.

“We can’t throw him in jail without due process.”

Daniel shot Charles a sour look.

“I don’t always like it either, given how some slip through, but this is how it’s done," Charles sighed as he grabbed the beer that the hyena brought to him. “Thank you, Michael," He smiled and kissed his partner on the cheek.

“Does your job know what you get up to with your pet?” Mavis asked. “I mean, aren’t lawyers supposed to be like super official and proper all the time?”

“You’d be surprised," Charles laughed. “And yes, they know.”

“Well, that’s good to hear," Mavis said. “Though, since I have you, I’d like to ask… If your partners are open to it, and you want to do some pro-bono work, the charity could use your expertise. A lot of patients could use a legal eagle on call.”

“We can arrange a meeting, but you will need to put together a presentation," Charles said.

“That I can do,” she responded.

The conversation continued like that for a while, most of the people there were talking about various small things while Daniel was extra cautious to watch Steven’s reactions; seeing the way his smile wasn’t quite as full, or how his rumbling purr was nowhere to be found.

“Anyhow, Frank, you’re a silent partner now. What do you think of the club?” Charles asked.

“It is a dream," He pressed his hand up to his chest. “I loved the look when I saw it at first, but I fell in love when I saw the party in full swing.”

“Then I guess we should have a toast," Daniel offered. Raising his glass to encourage the rest to join in.

“That sounds like a lovely idea. But what are we toasting?” Mavis asked.

“New beginnings," Steven piped up as he raised his glass. “A fresh start.”

“That’s a damn good reason to toast,” Charles said as he raised his beer to join in.

“I agree," Sandra said as he reached for a glass, but, instead of grabbing it, he knocked it over and as it came crashing to the ground. When he tried to grab at it before it hit, but missed, he ended up getting a cut on his finger.

“Ow, oh fuck me," Sandra cussed. “Don’t touch it. Let me clean it up," And took out a napkin from his purse and wrapped his finger tight. Then he waved to the staff to ask for a dustpan.

Daniel eyed the red-dotted tissue wrapped around Sandra’s finger.

“I may have to excuse myself," Sandra said as he gestured to go. “Just to make sure I don’t bleed on any of you.”

Everyone nodded.

Sandra and Mavis were about to leave from the front when Daniel came up to them.

“My dear, it sucks you have to go like this," Daniel said.

“I know," Sandra cooed. “But I would be beside myself if I got any of you with this.”

“That’s all it’d take tho, right?”

“Blood to blood, or any cuts or sores you might have. That kind of thing.”

“That’s good to know," Daniel said, then looked at the tissue wrapped finger.

“I thought you already knew this honey?” Sandra eyed Daniel suspiciously.

“I… do… I guess I just wanted to confirm," He said as he reached for Sandra’s injured hand.

“Hold on, what are you doing? Don’t touch it," Sandra pulled his hand close to his chest. “Do you have a death-wish?”

“It’s not a death sentence anymore.”

“It certainly ain’t no picnic either," Sandra said as he looked at Daniel’s scowling face. “But… oh no.”

“No what?”

“Do not involve me," Sandra said harshly.

“In what?” Daniel snapped back defensively.

“In whatever you’re thinking.”

“I’m not thinking anything. I’m just—”

“You’re thinking of pozzing John," Sandra scowled. “Honestly, Daniel, I thought I knew you better than this.”

“And?” Daniel almost shouted, then reined his voice in to a rasping whisper. “You know what he did. And you know he more than deserves it."

“And what do you think he’ll do if he is poz? He’ll infect so many innocent people.”

“I didn’t mean—” Daniel scoffed, but realized that his long time friend had seen through the pretense.

“This isn’t you," Sandra said, putting a hand on Daniel’s shoulder. Daniel bristled, but didn’t shy away. “You’re angry, this will pass. And when you sober up, you’ll have to live with the understanding that you murdered someone.”

“He fucking deserves—” Daniel said, but then realized what he had said and immediately hung his head.

“See, you’re sobering up right now," Sandra said. “If we didn’t have history, this would have been a deal-breaker.”

Daniel recoiled in on himself.

“I know you, honey," Sandra assured Daniel. “I know you wouldn’t be able to live with yourself if you did it. Come here and give me a hug. I know you’re hurting and I can feel it. But this? This isn’t you. You’re better than this.”

Daniels eyes were watering up.

“You are one of the sweetest people I’ve known. You’ve been there for Mavis and me when things were dark.”

Daniel sighed and cried into his friend’s arms. “I just… I hate it. I hate him so much. And I hate that I feel like I need to do something but I can’t.”

“The system, honey. Trust it," Sandra said and pressed his forehead against Daniel’s. “In any case, I do need to go. And I know you won’t do anything stupid.”

With that they left and Daniel was there standing, fidgeting.

He reached into his pocket to fish out his phone and opened the address book to find Steven’s therapist’s number.

He looked at it hesitantly. But when he thought to what he was about to do, he pressed “call.”

Charles had invited Steven and Daniel to his practice so he could take his deposition and agreed to submit their evidence for the impending trial. And after a few tense hours with Daniel holding Steven’s hand through the entire process, his story was taken down and submitted along with the medical records documenting the abuse.

The court date came quicker than Daniel wanted, but both him and Steven were ready, though they were wary that their wounds would be re-opened. Charles assured them, as did Steven’s therapist, that seeing John sentenced could help them find their comfort and emotional stability again.

They sat in the gallery together with a few others who were related to the other victims.

“Are you sure you want this?” Daniel softly asked Steven sitting next to him. “If you want to leave, or it gets to be too much, let me know and I’ll get us out of here.”

Steven shook his head. “No, I need to. I can’t let him control me anymore.”

Daniel squeezed his pet’s hand, and he saw a glimmer of a smile underneath Steven’s otherwise stoic facade.

And then there was John. He was brought in to sit behind glass in shackles and an orange jumpsuit. One of his eyes was swollen shut and there were bruises all over his face.

Seeing that made Daniel smile. He wasn’t a sadist, but the pleasure of seeing the one that nearly destroyed the love of his life brought low like this was delectably sweet.

And he looked so unlike the John they both remembered. Nowhere on the panther’s face could that cocky sneer he used to wear be found. And the way he sat, hunched over as if memorizing the pattern in the floor spoke volumes of how the inmates he was locked up with had treated him.

Daniel thought of laughing, but he pushed that thought out of his mind. ‘It’s not about me’ he reminded himself inwardly.

He was here for Steven. And Steven, although he appeared stoic, was trembling inside and his queen felt it.

Thankfully the proceedings were a closed session, and the swarm of news-vans outside would be unavoidable. But for now, in the room there was a peace.

“I’m glad Charles gave us that pep-talk," Daniel said as he held his lover’s arm close.

“Yes, he is a lovely man," Steven turned to look at Daniel. “Perhaps, when this is all over, you would like to thank him properly?”

“I’m certain a box of cigars ought to be thanks enough.”

“I agree," Steven said as he gripped his lover’s hand tight.

Steven turned to meet his queen’s gaze, and from his chest Daniel heard him purr again. It was hesitant, and withdrawn, but it was there.

Daniel, filled with a rush and an arousal, leaned into him and nuzzled his shoulder.

“Thank you," Daniel said.

“I am yours, and I am proud to be yours. I do not need your thanks.”

“Take it anyway. If I have to make that an order, then consider it an order.”

“I will not be commanded," Daniel looked up at this change in his pet… But he saw the smile. “I will accept it, gladly, because it is you giving it. I always will be yours.”

Daniel’s heart swelled, and a part of him wanted to scream… but not out of anger, or rage. This scream was one of sheer, unmitigated joy.

***

The trial was rough, and though Steven was not asked to stand, his testimony was read and there were a few shocked gasps from the jury.

It took less than 30 minutes for the jury to deliberate and when they returned, they all unanimously said “guilty.”

Six counts of kidnapping and forced confinement, multiple torture charges, many instances of rape, and even one extra charge for impersonation of a police officer. The charges were listed, and the judge ruled. John was sentenced to be put behind bars for a very long time.

When the gavel dropped was when Daniel and Steven both stood and hugged each other tightly, both letting tears fall from their eyes.

The gallery nearly erupted.

When they left the courthouse, there was a swarm of cameras and news-vans waiting to catch a glimpse of them. Gossip had spread about their story thanks to a few loose lips at the club and it going viral on the internet.

The spectacle that John put on at the drag-show was what people were glued to. And many people had things to say about it, not all of them positive. And when they pried into the details, it was like catnip to all the drama-seekers. Daniel and Steven’s story, though below the fold, was front-page news.

But to Daniel and Steven, it was finally over.

They had survived, and while they were a little worse for wear, they both knew in their hearts that they had won.

“My queen," Steven said as they neared their apartment building. “May I have some of your time to myself?”

“Of course, my love," Daniel responded. “Why?”

“Oh, it’s… I just would like to thank you for being here for me," He smiled as he nuzzled Daniels cheek. “And, maybe something more.”

“Oh honey," Daniel said. “Whatever you want, if I can provide, I will gladly give.”

“Excellent," He said. “It’s about time I thank you properly for all you’ve done for me.”

Daniel smiled.

He looked up into the clear blue sky and whispered “thank you.”