FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Wow, been a while since I put something up. Been kind of busy with getting ready to move and junk. This one is kind of cliché but it came into my head and I put it down. Hope you like it.

Deloris scanned the book page by page looking at the numerous kids up for adoption. She wanted to get the right one even though they all deserved good homes. She turned another page before she locked her eyes with an adorable fox.

"Have you made your decision Mrs. Matador?" the turtle said behind the desk.

"Yes I have," she said turning the book around and tapping the fox's picture. "I would like to adopt him."

The turtle looked at the picture before smiling.

"Ah, I see you choose Paulu Phaze. Good choice. He's a real sweetheart."

"I was hooked as soon as I saw his picture."

"Yes, he's a real cutie. He's had a very bad childhood so far but I know he's going into the arms of a loving family."

"Thank you."

The turtle nodded before turning to his computer.

"Okay, I need two forms of ID, two recent pay stubs, a bill in your name and your insurance."

Deloris nodded her head before reaching into her handbag and taking out the paperwork and handed it to the turtle. He took them and began to process everything.

"He has a very weird coat for a fox," she said looking again.

"Yes he does. That's one of the reason nobody wants him. They think its bad luck or some bullshit like that. I've talked to him and he's a very bright boy."

"What about his parents?"

"They dropped him off at an orphanage when he was one and claimed they couldn't support him."

"The bastards."

"No kidding. But they got theirs in the end. They tried moving but we found them in a brand new house with another child that looked very expensive. We asked how they could afford this and when they couldn't come up with a good reason, we made them pay child support until he got adopted."

"Good."

The turtle hit a couple more buttons before the printer came alive and spit out several papers. He grabbed them and stapled the top corners before facing them towards her.

"Okay. This is our policy form stating that you have full custody of Paulu Phaze. You are hereby responsible for any and all hospital fees or anything else that happens to him in your care. There will be a counselor coming to visiting him every week to check up on him. If at anytime the counselor deems him unhappy or the living situation he's in is unfit, he will be taken away immediately and you will be charged with child endangerment and fined five thousand dollars. If you agree to these terms, please sign the dotted line."

Deloris took the pen and signed without a second thought.

"Excellent. I'll send this away asap and you should get a call tomorrow on if you got approved or not."

"Thank you very much."

"No thank you. Have a good day Mrs. Matador," the turtle said standing up and shaking her hand.

"You too."

---

Deloris hummed a tune to herself as she got the room ready for the new arrival. The front door opened and closed as a tall, medium built teen walked in.

"I'm home." he said.

"Welcome home Azmodius. How was your day? Did you get everything you need for your junior year?"

"Yes mom," Azmo said plopping down on the couch.

He let out a sigh as he brushed back his long silver hair.

"You got a call from Sophie. She says she's having a sleep over and wanted to know if you are interested?"

"Do you mind?"

"I don't mind. But make sure......"

"I don't drink. I know mom."

The phone rang as he picked it up.

"Matador residents. Yes she's here, hang on. Mom, phone call."

Deloris walked downstairs and grabbed the phone.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Mrs. Deloris Matador?"

"Yes?"

"This is Herman Jochiam. I'm from child services. We reviewed your application and see no reason to decline your request for adoption."

"Oh thank you very much."

"Its no problem. We should thank you for reaching out and helping those in need. You can pick up Paulu at anytime."

"Thank you again. I just finished his room. I'll pick him up right away."

"Thank you very much Mrs. Matador. You have a good day."

Deloris hung up with a smile as Azmodius came back in holding a glass of coke.

"Who was that?"

"That was child services."

"Them again? Haven't they bothered us enough already?"

"This isn't about Felix, Azmo."

"Then what was it about?"

"I'll explain everything later. Right now, I need to go. I'll be back shortly."

Azmodius watched his mom with confusion before the phone rang.

"Matador residents."

"Hey sexy, how goes?" a silky voice said over the line.

"Pretty good Sophie. How about you?"

"Peachy. You get my message?"

"Yeah."

"So you in or out? Derrick and Alef are coming also."

"I'm in. Let me grab my sleeping clothes and I'll head over."

"Great. Also bring some cards. We want to play some Gin Rummy, strip style."

Azmo blushed at that.

"Sure........I guess."

"See you soon stud." Sophie said happily before hanging up.

Azmo looked at the phone before hanging up.

"It's going to be a long night."

---

Paulu sat on the bed, his small suitcase filled with what clothes the house provided for him as he played with his tail. He was told he was adopted which caught him by surprise. He thought people hated him cause of his fur color.

"Maybe my luck is changing."

His thoughts were interrupted when a knock was heard on his door.

"You ready to go big guy?" the brown wolf said wearing a dress shirt and pants.

"All set Marvin."

Marvin was his counselor and been with him since he was six. They were the best of friends and talked about everything.

"Lets go meet you new mom."

Paulu nodded his head, adjusting the glasses on his muzzle as he hopped off the bed. Marvin grabbed his suitcase as they walked down the hall. Several kids waved goodbye and gave him a hug. Reaching the elevator, they got on and descended to the bottom.

"What's my mom like?" Paulu asked.

"I know her from college. She's very nice and caring. She already has a son so you'll get a brother."

"Cool," Paulu said, his tail wagging happily behind him as they hit the lobby.

They walked out the elevator to the carpeted lobby where Deloris was sitting. She looked up from the magazine she was reading and had to do a double take as Paulu looked simply adorable. He was wearing a Cubs cap covering his short black hair. Tiny spectacles were on the bridge of his muzzle which slid down every chance it got. A white shirt with the black lion from Voltron was on his chest while a plain grey pair of short were on his legs followed by a pair of red shoes. His white tipped tail was moving nervously behind him.

"Wow, the picture I saw of you doesn't do you justice. You're simply adorable."

The fur around Paulu cheeks darkened.

"Aren't you going to give your mom a hug?" Deloris asked going to one knee.

Paulu smiled and ran into her arms as she tightened her embrace before spinning him in place making him laugh.

"Even your laugh is cute. Let's see if I can get more."

She began to tickle him making him laugh and squirm to get away.

"You picked a good one Deloris. Paulu's all heart." Marvin said.

"I was hooked the moment I saw his picture."

"Well he's all yours now. I'll be by in a week to see how things are going."

"Okay. Thanks again Marvin." Deloris said grabbing his suitcase.

Paulu ran over and hugged Marvin.

"Thanks for everything Marvin."

"No problem. You be good for Deloris. She's a nice lady."

"I will."

"Good. I'll see you in a week," Marvin said ruffling his hair before heading to the elevator.

He gave a wave goodbye before entering.

"Well Paulu, shall we go home?"

Home. Paulu never thought he would hear those words from anybody. It hit him hard as tears began to come down his cheek. Deloris walked over and hugged him from behind.

"I know you had a tough life Paulu. Nobody deserves what happened to you. But you belong to me now. And I will never let anything happen to you."

Paulu turned and hugged her tightly crying freely into her chest as she rocked him back and forth, rubbing his back softly. He sniffled a little as he calmed down looking up at his new mom who smiled tenderly back at him.

"Now, how about some ice cream?"

"Yay, ice cream." he cheered.

"Lets go son."

"Okay mom."

She reached down and held his hand as they walked out the lobby of the Lahey House for Children. The minivan's sliding door opened as Deloris put his suitcase in the back.

"Hop in sport."

"Cool," Paulu yipped happily.

He hopped in the front and buckled up as Deloris got in front. The car started with a soft rumble and they took off down the street.

"I got you enrolled in school also."

"That's cool. I can't wait."

"Yep. After we get you some ice cream, we'll go clothes shopping along with getting you some school supplies."

"Can I get a drawing book too?"

"An artist huh?"

"I like to draw. It helps me feel better when I'm sad."

"Okay. Maybe you can show me some of your drawings."

They drove on with idle chatter before stopping at the mall. Paulu was all smiles as he walked hand in hand with his new mom. People pointed and whispered to each other but that didn't affect them. They spent the whole day in the mall as Deloris got him tons of clothes, school supplies and a couple of games.

"Well, here's your new home Paulu," Deloris said pulling into the driveway of a two story house with a front patio.

Grabbing the bags, they walked in as Paulu mouth opened in amazement.

"Wow." he said.

The house was spacious. A huge living room with a fireplace along with two leather sofas in an L shape around an end table. A big screen TV stood mounted on the wall with an entertainment center under it with a surround sound system, DVD player and a rack full of DVDs. Beanbag chairs were placed next to it as Paulu skipped over and jumped on one with a giggle.

"This is cool."

"Glad you like it. Come, I'll show you your room."

They walked up the rugged stairs and passed Azmo's room which he peeked into to.

"That's your brother's room. You'll meet him soon."

They walked into the next room as his eyes lit up. A big bed was in the corner besides a dresser with a lamp on top. On the other side was a computer desk with a new computer. Next to it on another entertainment stand was a TV with a Wii and some games.

"Cool," Paulu yipped and jumped on the bed as the springs bounced him in the air.

"This is your room from now on."

"Thanks mom," Paulu barked happily and hugged her.

"Your quite welcomed dear. Now let's get you settled in."

"Okay."

---

"I can't believe I let you talk me into this," Azmo said sitting on the floor in nothing but a pair of boxers and a shirt.

"Oh come on. You need to unwind. You wind up any tighter and you'll snap," Sophie said in her red panties and bra. Her long raccoon tail curled into her lap.

"She's right Az. You need to get out some and clear your head." Derrick said rubbing his chubby panda stomach which was bare but he had on his pants.

"Easy for you to say," Azmo said picking up a card from the deck.

"We know its not easy for you but you need to move on hun. Stop dwelling in the past." Alef said moving some red hair from her tan muzzle. Her slim wolf body was still fully clothed.

Azmo let out a sigh before placing a card down.

"I just wish I got there sooner. He still might be alive."

"Don't keep blaming yourself Az. You did everything you could." Derrick said picking up a card.

"Apparently it wasn't good enough."

They all looked at him as he held his head down.

"All right, enough of this dark cloud," Sophie said picking up a card and then smiled. "Rummy lady and gentlemen. Lose em."

They all groaned as Azmo took off his shirt showing his average size chest. Derrick took off his pants leaving only his boxers as Alef took off her shirt and to everybody surprise had no bra on. Derrick went red along with Azmo making her chuckle.

"Don't tell me you don't like what you see?" she said shaking her breasts a little.

"Okay you kids, time to finish up in there," Sophie's dad said from downstairs.

"Okay dad."

Everybody picked up their clothes before taking turns in the bathroom to change into sleeping clothes. Back in Sophie's room, two sleeping bags were laid out as Sophie was in the bed.

"One of you gets the joy of sleeping with me."

"No thanks. I toss too much in my sleep. Wouldn't want to hit you," Derrick said.

"I like being alone in my bed, no offense." Alef added.

"Guess that leaves you tall and handsome. Step into my domain," Sophie said with a murr opening the covers.

"Gee thanks fellas."

Azmo got under the covers before Sophie turned off the lights leaving the room mostly dark except the small hint of moonlight making shadows on the wall. Sophie wrapped an arm and leg over his body.

"I miss doing this."

"So do I. But you know we just weren't meant to be." Azmo said holding her.

"Yeah. We drove each other crazy but the sex was awesome."

"You know that stuff is better said in private." Derrick said.

"Quiet you. I know you'll be in Alef's bag or vice versa in the morning," Sophie snapped back.

Everybody chuckled at that as Azmo rubbed her back softly getting a sigh from her in return.

"I still love you, you know." Sophie said in a whisper.

Azmo looked at her as her eyes were misty a little. He lifted her chin and kissed her softly before kissing her forehead.

"Go to sleep Sophie."

"Jerk," she said with a smile before cuddling under his chin.

---

Paulu woke up with a jump and started to panic before he remembered where he was. He cuddled under the blankets with a murr and smiled.

"Home at last," he said happily.

A knock on the door was heard as Deloris opened it.

"Morning kiddo. Sleep well?"

"Mm-hmm," Paulu nodded.

"Great. Go wash up and I'll make some breakfast. Then I'll take you to your school to get your schedule."

"Okay."

Deloris nodded before leaving. Paulu jumped out of bed in his pajamas before giving a yip as the hardwood floor was a tad cold. He giggled and did a stretch before grabbing some undies and tee shirt. Walking out the room, he stopped at the linen closet and grabbed a towel before proceeding to the bathroom. He stripped down and turned on the water before looking in the mirror at himself.

"I kind of wished I was born normal. Then maybe people would like me." he said sadly, ears drooping a little.

Violet eyes looked back before smiling.

"But I have a great mom now and can't wait to meet my brother."

Hopping in the shower, he washed himself down completely before hopping out and shaking the excess water out his fur. He dried himself quickly before heading to his room and putting on a pair of blue shorts followed by a red shirt with a picture of Charizard on it.

"Paulu, come down."

"Okay."

He hopped downstairs and into the kitchen where a plate of pancakes, egg, sausage, toast and a cup of OJ was waiting for him.

"Dig in kiddo."

"Thanks."

Paulu took a bite and squealed with joy as his tail wagged happily. Deloris smiled looking at how happy he was as she took a sip of her herbal tea.

"Wow, this is good. Better then the place I was in."

"Cause its home made, not processed."

Paulu took another bite before drinking some OJ with a yip of happiness. He finished with a burp and blushed as Deloris chuckled grabbing his plate.

"When do I get to meet my brother?"

"He should be home later today. He was invited to a sleep over by one of his friends."

"I hope I meet some friends."

"Of course you will. You have a bubbly personality and are a real cutey," she said tickling his ear making him giggle. "Let me get dressed and we'll head out."

"Okay."

She smiled and headed upstairs as he heard rustling. She came down in a simple pair of pants and shirt.

"We'll also get you some new glasses."

Paulu nodded causing his glasses to slide down his muzzle as he pushed them back up. They walked out together to the minivan and took off driving to school. Paulu watched the scenery go by with joy in his eyes. Soon Deloris made a left turn into the driveway of the J. H. Rose Middle School.

"Here we are kiddo, your new school."

"Cool," Paulu said looking at the two story brick building.

"Your brother will be going to the school up the hill so he can come down to visit you during lunch or you can go see him."

They got out as Paulu looked around. In the back was a huge field that was currently getting mowed by a custodian. Next to it was a fenced in place with lots of tables and chairs. They walked up to the front door and inside as the smell of pine sol and paint hit his nose. The front office was just to the right of the entrance as they walked in. A collie looked up from her notes and smiled.

"Welcome to J. H. Rose Middle School. How can I help you?" she said in a cheery voice.

"I came to get my son's schedule for this year."

"Name please?"

"Paulu Phaze."

"Ah yes you called a couple days ago. Please follow me into the back office and we'll get everything set."

They followed her to a back office as she sat down behind a computer.

"Okay, what grade is he in so I can adjust his schedule?"

"Hmm, good question. What grade are you in Paulu and your age?"

"Sixth grade and I'm thirteen."

"Okay. Just to make sure we do put him in the right grade, may he take a quick test?"

"Sure."

The collie smiled before leaving and coming back with a small folder.

"Now Paulu, these are simple sixth grade questions. Answer what you can and we'll take it from there."

Paulu nodded and started to work. It took him roughly an hour but he finished and handed it back to the collie who looked it over.

"Wow, impressive. Your a bright boy. I see no reason not to put you in the sixth grade. Now I just need some general information such as vaccine shots, birth certificate, etc."

Deloris nodded and handed her the paper work as the collie typed in the info.

"Okay Paulu you're all set." she said hitting the print button as his schedule appeared. "Homeroom is at seven and your first class is at 7:15. Lunch is at 11:30 and the school day ends at two. Your school bus if you wish to take it is number 207."

"Thanks," Paulu said with a nod.

"Do you have any questions?"

"Do you think I can get an art class?" Paulu said looking at his schedule.

"Let me look for you."

The collie typed some keys and looked at the screen.

"Yep. I have one spot left. You want it?"

"Yes please."

"You got it."

She added the arts class and took off the music class.

"All right Paulu your all set. I'll see you tomorrow morning."

"Thanks," Paulu said with a smile.

"Thank you Mrs. Kelly," Deloris said getting up.

"No problem. You have a good day."

They walked out the school as Paulu looked at his schedule. He had history, math, science, gym, English and art.

"Now that that's done, time for some new glasses."

"Yeah."

---

Azmo sat in his room on the floor, Korn was blasting on his stereo as he played Dead Space on his TV. He didn't even hear the front door open and close as he was blasting necromorphs. A smile crept on his face as he took of the head of one with the Plasma Cutter.

"That'll leave a mark."

"What are you playing?"

Azmo let out a yell of surprise which caused him to toss his controller in the air. He turned to see Paulu looking at him. He turned back to the screen when he heard his guy get hit as the controller vibrated on the ground. He scrambled to the get the controller but it was too late as the screen went red with blood. He let out a groan cause he didn't save as he turned down the radio and stared evilly at Paulu.

"Who the hell are you? Don't you knock before entering a person's room?"

"I'm sorry. I did knock but you couldn't hear over the music." Paulu said ears down.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Paulu, your new brother."

Those words hit Azmo like a ton of bricks. Rage filled his face as he grabbed Paulu and lifted him up by his shirt.

"I only have one brother, and you sure as hell ain't him."

"But mom........"

"She's not your mom, blue boy."

Paulu whined at that as Deloris let out a gasp in the doorway.

"Azmodius, let him go this instant."

Azmo tossed him on the bed making him yelp as he landed on his tail at a bad angle.

"Mom who the hell is this blue freak?"

"This is Paulu Phaze, your adopted brother. I adopted him yesterday." Deloris said as Paulu hugged her leg.

Azmo looked at her with anger.

"So your just going to replace Felix with this walking blue mascot?"

"I'm not replacing Felix. Nobody will replace Felix."

"Then why get this ball of yarn?"

"He's special."

Azmo was livid as he stared daggers at Paulu.

"Its your fault he's dead."

"You don't think I know that," Deloris snapped back.

"So this is how you cope with his death? You adopt a freak of nature."

"Paulu's a nice boy who needs a family. And we're going to be that family. Don't make this any harder on me."

Azmo turned off his TV and started to get dressed.

"Yeah I bet it was real hard on you. He didn't die in your arms."

"Azmo........."

"Your arms were busy with something else," he said with malice.

"Just stop," Deloris said angrily.

"I bet that dickhead enjoyed getting his load swallowed by a neglect mother."

Paulu cringed when he heard and saw Deloris rear back and slap Azmo.

"Don't you ever talk to me like that. I am your mother. You will treat me with respect."

Azmo didn't say anything as his cheek stung, looking down at her.

"Humph, whatever," he said grabbing his keys and shoving Paulu out the way making him fall on the floor. "Stay the fuck out of my room blue boy." Azmo shouted from downstairs slamming the front door.

Deloris started to cry as she went to the floor. Paulu walked over as he hugged her.

"I'm sorry you had to see that."

"Its okay mom. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine sweetheart. Just a little emotionally hurt."

She looked at the clock which read quarter til six.

"What do you say we order out tonight?"

"I want chicken fingers," Paulu said happily.

"Chicken fingers it is."

---

Azmo drove around, not even having a destination. His head was pounding as he wanted to cry but his anger was too overwhelming.

"God damn her."

Somehow he ended up in Sophie's driveway. Her father's Lancer was there as he got out. Walking up to the door, he knocked a few times as Sophie opened it. She saw his face and the red around his cheek.

"What happened?"

"Mind if I come in?"

"Of course cutie. Come in."

He walked in as her father was watching the news. The sliver eyes watching the news turned briefly to the hallway.

"Hey Az. You feeling okay buddy?"

"Not really."

"Trouble at home?"

"Something like that."

"I understand kiddo. Your still going through some emotionally issues. Your welcomed here anytime."

"Thank you."

Sophie grabbed his arm and lead him upstairs to her room where Cold Play was playing on her computer. She turned it off with a couple of clicks before sitting behind Azmo on the bed.

"What's wrong?"

"Mom and I had a fight."

"I'm sorry to hear that," she said holding him tight. "Want to talk about it?"

"She adopted some blue mutant of a fox as a son. I think she's trying to forget Felix."

"Hun, nothing will ever replace your own flesh and blood. Maybe your mom needed a little emotional boost and found it in adoption?"

"I don't want a fake brother. I want Felix." Azmo said feeling stressed as the urge to cry was fought back again.

"Why don't you cry? It'll make you feel better."

"I'm done crying. Once Felix died, I lost the will to cry."

Sophie sighed and hugged him from behind.

"Mind if I spend the night here?"

"We have school tomorrow you know?"

"I know. I'll give you a ride as compensation."

"Well since you put it like that," she chuckled. "I need to take a shower, then mom should have dinner ready."

"Okay."

Sophie got up and walked into the bathroom attached to her room. Azmo heard the shower water running before rubbing his cheek.

"Maybe I did go to far but she shouldn't have gotten that...........thing."

He was lost in thought that he didn't hear the water stop and Sophie come out with only a towel. He looked up but averted his eyes quickly as she dropped the towel.

"Why look away? Its not like you haven't explored my body before."

"Its still not right. You have a boyfriend now."

"Such a gentleman. I'm honored."

"Sophie, time for dinner," her mom called.

"Do we have room for Azmodius?"

"Sure. I'll make another plate."

Azmo smiled and rubbed the back of neck.

"I feel like I'm intruding."

"Nonsense. My parents love you like a second......."

She stopped when she saw his face.

"Sorry."

"Forget about it."

"Lets eat then and get ready for school."

"Sure."

---

Paulu had butterflies in his stomach as he looked at all the kids getting off the bus or parents car.

"You ready sport?" Deloris asked.

"I'm nervous but I'm ready."

"Okay, lets go."

They both got out as kids stared along with a few parents. Paulu wanted to shrink and disappear as those eyes burned into him. His ears pressed tightly against his head as they entered the school. Walking to his homeroom, most parents were saying their goodbyes.

"Now Paulu, you be good for the teachers."

"Okay," Paulu said glancing around with his eyes.

"Hey, look at me."

Paulu's nervous eyes looked at Deloris's brown ones.

"You are a special person. Don't let anybody bring you down."

"Okay mom," Paulu said happily as his tail wagged.

"Good. Now remember, your brother will be up the hill at lunch time so you can join him."

"But he hates me."

"He needs time to adjust sweetie. This is a little sudden for him."

Paulu nodded when the bell rang.

"Time for me to go to work. I'll see you when you get home cutie," Deloris said kissing his forehead.

"Bye mom." Paulu said hugging her.

The parents left leaving their little ones. Paulu sat down at a desk as all eyes were on him.

"All right, settle down," a hawk said walking in.

He sat down and got out the attendance sheet. He ran down the names getting a raise of the hand and a here.

"Paulu Phaze," he said looking up.

"Here," Paulu said raising his hand.

The hawk did a double take as he looked at him.

"Umm........right then," he said continuing down the list.

Paulu folded his ears as he heard giggles and chuckles. The first class bell rang as he went to his first class, hoping for an eventful day.

---

"Oh god my classes suck," Sophie said at her locker as the bell for lunch sounded.

"I hear that." Azmo said.

They walked to the cafeteria where they met up with Derrick and Alef.

"You guys get sucky classes too?" Derrick asked.

"Algebra, Earth Science, Drama, History, P.E. and electronics," Azmo said.

"Better then mine." Alef said.

They all grabbed some lunch before heading out to the benches and finding a seat.

"I can't wait to graduate," Sophie said taking a bite of an apple.

"Don't rush it." Alef added. "Then once you do, you'll be wishing you were back."

"Maybe, maybe not."

Azmo chuckled as he swallowed some chocolate milk. Soon a hyena walked over and threw his arm around Sophie and kissed her cheek.

"Hey baby, how come you didn't wait for me?"

"Sorry Ivan. I got caught up with Azmo."

"So I noticed," he said with a slight growl.

"Hey, we're not dating anymore but that doesn't mean I'm going to stop hanging around him."

Azmo noticed the glare he was getting but shrugged it off.

"So you want to go out tonight?" Ivan asked.

"Sure babe."

"Cool. I'll give you a call when we leave here."

"Okay, see you tonight," Sophie said kissing him.

Ivan left but gave another growl to Azmo. Sophie sighed and looked at him.

"Sorry."

"Don't be."

---

Paulu grabbed his lunch and walked outside. The sun was out as kids sat at benches laughing and talking. Some looked at him and giggled but others just ignored him. He looked around for an empty spot and bumped into a wolf who had a couple of friends with him.

"Hey there foxy. Looking a little "blue" there." he laughed.

Paulu folded his ears and backed away.

"Leave me alone."

"How can we leave such a colorful person alone?"

"What do you want?"

"How about sharing some of your lunch with us?'

"Why should I?"

The wolf's other buddies surrounded him.

"Then we'll that statement true."

"What statement?"

"About being beaten so bad you'll turn black and blue. But in your case, just black."

Paulu whimpered as he heard knuckles crack around him.

"Now are you going to share?"

"Here," Paulu said handing him his bag.

The wolf snatched it making Paulu flinch.

"Wise choice blue boy. Consider this the start of a beautiful relationship," the wolf laughed.

As they walked away, the one behind Paulu shoved him to the ground knocking his new glasses off. He quickly grabbed them before they stepped on them. Sighing, he got up and dusted himself off as he heard giggling all around. His stomach growled before looking up and saw the dirt trail leading up to his brother's school. With a nervous whine, he started his way up.

---

"Damn this book is thick," Derrick said flipping through his science book.

"My electronics book is almost as thick." Azmo added.

"Bet you could bench press the box they came in."

"I wouldn't be surprised."

Soon commotion was heard as people pointed in the distance.

"Wonder what's up?" Alef said.

"Probably a school hazing," Azmo said biting his sandwich.

"Whoa, look at the blue wonder over there." Derrick said.

"Blue wonder?"

Azmo turned to see Paulu holding his tail nervously as he looked around. Azmo let out a groan before holding his head.

"Isn't that your adopted brother Azmo?" Sophie asked.

"I don't know him."

"Azmodius?"

Azmo shuddered at that and looked to see Paulu standing there.

"Can I have lunch with you?"

"I don't know you." Azmo said as people started talking and pointed. "Go away before you mess up my rep."

Paulu let out a whine and turned to leave before Sophie let out a squeal of joy.

"Om my god he's so CUTE!!"

Sophie grabbed him by the waist getting a yip of surprise as she pulled him into her lap.

"Cute, cute, cute," she squealed nuzzling his cheek making him giggle. "What's your name cutie?"

"Paulu Phaze."

"Azmo why didn't you tell me your brother was so cute?"

Azmo didn't answer as he continued eating. Paulu's stomach growled which Sophie heard as she looked at him.

"You hungry?"

"Yeah. Some kids took my lunch."

"The bullies. Here you go," Sophie said grabbing Azmo's fries and apple.

"Sophie what the hell?"

"You got a problem with what I did?"

Sophie stared daggers at him making him go quiet. Paulu munched happily as Sophie tickled his chin making his tail wag. Derrick and Alef looked at him before smiling as he looked too cute sitting there eating happily.

"He is adorable," Alef said with a giggle.

"Don't I know it. He's so huggable too," Sophie said hugging him getting a squeal of joy from Paulu.

Azmo looked with disgust before throwing his sandwich down with a plop on the tray. Grabbing his books, he stuffed them in his backpack before standing up and leaving. Paulu folded his ears and let out a whine.

"Don't worry about him. Just give him some time cutie. He's going through a lot right now."

"Okay," Paulu said softly.

Sophie looked at her watch and let out a gasp as they only had five minutes left.

"You better get going Paulu, or you'll be late."

"Okay," Paulu said hopping down. "Thanks again.......um, I don't know your name."

"Sophie cutie. But you can call me sister okay?" she said with a wink.

"Okay," Paulu said with a smile.

---

Deloris hummed a tune as she started driving home.

"Hope Paulu had a good day?"

Her cell phone rang as she hit the speaker button.

"Hello?"

"Hows my favorite sweetheart?" a voice boomed.

"Doing good spotty. How about you?"

"Great now that I get to hear your voice."

"How was the first day of school for you?"

"Crazy. These kids are a handful."

"Did you happen to run into Azmo?"

The line went quiet before a sigh was heard.

"He's in my Earth science class."

"Is that a bad thing?"

"Well he's still angry with me. He didn't even respond to attendance."

Deloris sighed as she pulled into the driveway.

"It is kind of our fault."

"I know. I deal with what happened everyday I wake up."

"He'll get over it hopefully. I adopted a new son."

"Really? Can I come by and say hi?"

"Maybe later. I have to get dinner ready."

"Okay. Bye love."

Deloris hung up with a sigh as she got out the van. She opened the front door and took off her shoes. Walking into the living room, Paulu was on one of the beanbag reading one of his textbooks.

"Hey cutey, how was school today?" Deloris said kissing his forehead.

"It was okay I guess."

"Anything happened?"

"Some kids took my lunch and knocked me down."

"That's horrible. Did you go to your brother?"

Paulu let out a whine and folded his ears.

"I tried to but he ignored me, saying I was going to give him a bad image."

Deloris let out a sigh and sat next to him.

"I'm sorry Paulu."

"Its okay. Sophie was real nice to me."

"Ah yes, Sophie is a real sweetheart."

"She said I can call her sister."

Deloris laughed before getting up.

"Finish your homework then I'll get dinner started."

"Okay mom." Paulu said with a giggle as she tickled his ear.

Deloris walked upstairs and looked into Azmo's room. He had his back turned at his desk as he did his homework.

"How was school Azmo?"

"Fine," he said bluntly.

"I heard from Paulu you ignored him at lunch time."

"Your point?"

"Why can't you be nice to him? He's trying to be your brother."

"He's nobody to me."

Deloris stood there as Azmo continued to study. How could he not forgive her after all this time.

"Anything else you want?" he said.

"You want to join us for dinner?"

"Thanks for the offer, but I'll pass."

Deloris balled her fists angrily.

"You know something Azmodius, you need to get over what happened. Yes its my fault that Felix is dead. I go to sleep at night with that guilt over my head. But I've moved on and adopted Paulu cause he's a good kid with a strong heart. Don't take your frustration out on him because its not fair."

Azmo turned another page before writing something.

"I'll think about it. Anything else you want to blabber on about?"

A single tear went down her face before she slammed his door. Azmo stopped writing for a second and looked at the door before going back to writing.

---

Paulu sat in art class as he was drawing on an easel. The teacher, an otter, walked over as his tail moved backed and forth carefully.

"Nice work Paulu. You really have an eye for art."

"Yeah. I like to draw. Its takes my mind off stuff," Paulu said switching colored pencils.

The teacher watched Paulu's hand techniques, his whiskers twitching a little.

"You have an unique way of bringing life to you pictures."

"You think so?" Paulu asked looked at the otter.

"Oh yes. Every artist has a different way of speaking through their pictures. Your pictures speak with two special emotions."

"What are they?"

"Love and sadness."

Paulu looked confused but continued working til the bell rang. Paulu gathered his things before the teacher stopped him.

"Paulu one second."

"Yes Mr. Weatherby?"

"Would you like to join the art club? Your talents could be of good use."

"You mean it?" Paulu asked, his tail wagging happily.

"You bet. The club started on Friday."

"I'll be there." Paulu said with a yip.

"Great, see you then."

Paulu walked out the classroom to his locker when a cute cheetah walked up to him.

"Hi." she said happily.

Paulu jumped a little and turned to look at her.

"Oh, hi."

"You draw very good. I wish I could draw like you."

"I'm not that good," Paulu blushed closing his locker.

"I'm Ruby. You must be Paulu?"

"That's me."

She smiled as they began walking.

"What class do you have next?" she asked.

"Math in room two twenty."

"Really? Me too."

"Cool," Paulu said as the bell rang. "We better hurry or we'll be late."

---

"So by closely observing the leaves, we can clearly see photosynthesis and how trees supply oxygen to the air." the dalmatian said writing on the board. "Now for a quick quiz."

Everybody let out a groan at that.

"Now now its not that bad. Just a test to see how good your knowledge of trees are. So everyone come up and grab a sheet."

All the students got up and grabbed one except a zebra who grabbed two.

"Um, Mr. Phil, why are you grabbing two?"

"Azmo asked me to grab one for him."

"Mr. Matador is quite capable of getting his own. Azmodius can you come get your test?"

Azmo let out a grunt as he stood up and walked to the front. He reached down and snatched the test of the desk without even looking at him and sat back down.

"This quiz shouldn't take too long. Once your done, you're free for the rest of the class."

The class was quiet as pencils scribbled on the paper. Azmo finished first as he got up and slammed the paper down.

"Azmodius do you have a quick second to talk?" the canine asked.

"What do you want Bradley?" Azmo said back turned.

"Listen, I just want to say I never meant for any of this to happen."

"Kind of late for that now isn't it?"

"I'm sorry Azmodius. I never felt so bad in my life. I just want you to know that I understand how you feel and what you are going through."

This ticked Azmo off as he jumped over the desk and grabbed Bradley by the shirt and slammed him against the blackboard making the students gasp.

"Don't you dare try to say you know what I'm going through. You don't know what its like to hold your own flesh and blood in your hands watching him die by the second. You don't know what it feels likes to know if you were only a minute earlier you could've saved his life."

Azmo had him pressed hard on the board as Bradley was on his toes. Phil rushed over and held Azmo from behind.

"Azmo, calm down. This isn't helping. You're only making it worse. Ease up man. Come on, ease up."

Azmo let out a grunt as he let Bradley go. He turned and grabbed his stuff from his desk before heading to the door.

"Azmodius........."

"Bradley.....shut the fuck up while I'm still sane enough to think."

And with that said, he walked out slamming the door behind him. Bradley sat down with a sigh before looking at Phil.

"Thanks Phil."

"No problem."

---

"Deloris, you have a phone call on line five."

"Thanks Lisa."

Deloris picked up and held it to her ear.

"Hello, Deloris Matador's office."

"Hello Mrs Matador, this is Azmodius's principal Mr Dond."

"Oh hello Mr. Dond, how are you?"

"I'm doing fine thank you. I'm calling in regards to Azmodius."

"Did something happen?"

"Your son attacked one of my teachers today."

She let out a gasp at that.

"I'm so sorry."

"School policy says to have him expelled but I'm willing to be fair."

"Okay, what do you need from me?"

"Azmodius appears to be going through a lot of emotional stress over the death of his brother."

"I know."

She let out a sniffle and wiped her nose.

"Seeing as he's going through a lot, if you can get him some therapy, I'm willing to only suspend him for only two weeks."

"That's all?"

"Yes. You can thank Mr. Bradley for that because it was his idea. He's worried about him as well as I."

"I understand. I'll get him enrolled."

"If you want, I have a couple of numbers I can give you?"

"No thank you. I know somebody that can help him."

"Okay. Well have a good day Mrs Matador and I hope to see Azmodius in good health. He's a bright kid."

She hung up and placed her hands over her face as she cried.

---

Azmo sat in his room staring at the TV. He was playing Manhunt and every thug he killed, he pictured it was Bradley. He let an evil smile across his face as he brutally took off a thug's head with an ax. Paulu sat in the living room reading an art book when Deloris walked in.

"Hey mom."

"Hey sport." she said tiredly. "How was school?"

"Great. I made a new friend today."

"That's great honey." she said hugging him when she heard a thump from upstairs.

With a defeated sigh, she walked upstairs to Azmo's room. Her eyes flashed with anger as she stormed in, turned off the TV, grabbed the controller out his hands and threw it against the wall.

"All right, I HAD IT. This attitude of yours is going to stop right here, right now."

Azmo looked at her, his eyes void of emotion.

"For the love of god Azmo, stop dragging Felix's good name in the ground. Yes, he's dead. Yes, I fucked up. But when you start assaulting people, I draw the line."

"Is that what that asshole said I did?"

SLAP.

"You watch your mouth. I'm sick of this shit. You are going to behave like I raised you to be. I'm not going to stand by and let you run over me. Your father tried and he regretted it."

"You probably watched him bang that girl silly."

SLAP.

"You got suspended from school instead of expelled provided you get help. Bradley was kind enough to suggest that."

"So I'm suppose to be grateful to that piece of shit?"

Paulu sat on the couch in a fetal position as he heard the yelling and the slaps. He covered his ears and whined when the doorbell rang. He opened the door as Marvin stood there with a smile.

"Marvin!!" Paulu yipped happily and hugged him.

"Hey champ, how's it going?" Marvin asked.

"Okay I guess," Paulu said quietly before folding his ears as Deloris yelled again.

"Did I come at a bad time?"

"I don't know."

Deloris slammed his door and leaned on the wall, tears coming down her face. She looked down the stairs to see Marvin standing there making her gasp.

"Oh, I didn't hear the doorbell. How are you Marvin?" she asked sniffling.

"I'm doing fine Deloris. Are you okay?" he asked concerned.

"I'm fine. Just mentally and emotionally tired. Please have a seat. Want some tea?"

"Sure, that'll be fine."

Marvin took a seat with Paulu at his side as Deloris came back with some tea for them both.

"Are you sure your okay Deloris? You look seriously stressed."

She rubbed her eyes before sighing.

"Its Azmo. I just don't know what to do anymore."

"Has he hit or yelled at you?"

"No. He just can't forgive me for what I did."

Marvin went to speak when a door opened and Azmo walked down the stairs. Paulu clung to Marvin and shivered a little. Azmo's left cheek was red as he grabbed his keys, jacket and hat.

"Hey Azmodius. How are you today?" Marvin asked.

Azmo stopped and turned to look at him. Marvin and Deloris shivered as they looked into his grey eyes that was void of emotion. It was like staring into a puppet.

"Fuck off," he said bluntly before slamming the front door behind him.

They heard a car engine start up and speed off.

"His eyes were so..........lifeless," Marvin said.

"He scares me." Paulu said.

"He didn't hit you did he?"

"No, I would never allow that." Deloris said as the cup in her hand shook lightly.

"We'll get to him later. But in the meantime, look what I got you Paulu."

Marvin reached into his pocket and pulled out a DS as Paulu squealed with joy.

"Oh wow cool."

"You can have this provided you do good in school. Deal?"

"Deal," Paulu nodded.

"Then here you go."

"Yay," Paulu cheered.

Deloris smiled as Paulu hurried up the stairs to his room to play his new toy. Once he was gone, Marvin got serious and looked at her.

"Okay Deloris, tell me everything from start to finish."

Azmo turned off the engine and sat in the car. Anger still flowed through his mind but his eyes was void of anything. He got out and walked the cement path in the park passing people jogging or playing games on the grass. Sitting down under a tree, he looked straight ahead where you could faintly see traces of blood on the ground. He curled his legs under him and rested his chin on his knees.

"If only I gotten here sooner," he said softly remembering that faithful night only a month ago.

---

"Felix go long," Derrick said holding a football.

Felix avoided tackles as Derrick heaved the ball into the air. Felix watched it as he made a running jump to catch it.

"Nice one," Azmo said.

"Wasn't it?" Felix said spinning the ball.

"You pushed off you cheater. That doesn't count," a bulldog yelled.

"Patrick relax, its all in fun." Azmo said.

"Yeah man, don't take it so personal." Derrick added.

Patrick growled before Felix walked over and tossed him the ball.

"Want to try again?" Felix asked, his amber eyes looking at Patrick.

Patrick wanted to say no but his football teammates were watching him.

"Come on Patrick, show him what a safety is made off," a collie yelled.

"Yeah man, its just a little kid. You should have no trouble guarding him." a cheetah added.

Patrick growled before tossing the ball at Derrick.

"Fine, lets do it again."

Felix nodded his head and stood a couple feet away from Derrick on his right side. He called a couple of signals before hiking the ball. Felix took off, Patrick next to him. Felix then faked right then went left which Patrick read easily. Then Felix stopped and did a double fake taking Patrick off guard making him fall to the ground. Derrick tossed it long to a wide open Felix who caught it easily.

"Dude you got served by a kid," the collie laughed along with the cheetah.

Even Derrick and Azmo were laughing as Patrick snarled and stood up.

"Don't think this proves anything."

"It proves I'm faster and quicker then you," Felix said with a grin.

This made the collie and cheetah laughed harder as they had tears coming down their cheeks.

"Maybe I should take your place as safety if you can't even handle a twelve year old."

Patrick snarled and grabbed him by the shirt collar. He drew his fist back but his arm was caught by Azmo.

"Relax Patrick, jesus man."

Patrick's yellow eyes stared daggers into Felix's amber.

"Your brother won't always be around punk. Remember that."

He let him go before walking towards his team mates who were still laughing. They waved goodbye as Derrick, Azmo, and Felix headed home.

"Good stuff bro," Azmo said wrapping his arm around his younger brother.

"I learn watching you brother."

"Ha ha, I'm not good. If I was, I'd be on the team."

They shared a laugh as Derrick said his goodbyes taking the side street. Walking into the house, Deloris was in the front with Bradley watching TV.

"Hey kids you have fun?" Deloris asked.

"Yeah, a blast." they both said.

"Great. Azmo, Sophie called and asked for your help with something which she wouldn't explain."

"Okay, I'll take a shower and head over."

"You take a shower too Felix."

"I know mom."

Azmo took a shower and got out heading to his room. It was around eight and night was on them as the sky was dark. Putting on some clothes, he opened the door to see Felix heading to the shower.

"I'll be right back bro."

"Okay."

Azmo headed out into his car and took off towards Sophie's house. Felix got out the shower feeling refreshed. He walked to his room and checked his pants pocket for his phone but couldn't find it.

"Oh man, don't tell me I lost it?"

He checked all over his room groaning.

"I just took a shower. Ah man."

He threw on the same clothes and jogged downstairs. He passed the living room where his mom and Bradley were locked in a passionate kiss.

"Mom, I dropped my phone in the park. I'm going to look for it."

"Can't this wait til tomorrow? Its too dark out."

"I'll be quick mom," Felix said slipping on his shoes and grabbing a flashlight.

They watched the door close before looking at each other.

"Shall we finish this some place quiet?" Bradley murred.

"You read my mind."

Felix hopped off his bike and switched on the flashlight looking this way and that.

"Ah man, where is it?"

He kept looking, vaguely aware of being watched before a hand grabbed him from behind covering his mouth.

"Where's your brother now?" Patrick growled in his ear.

He reared back and punched him in his neck sending him down on the grass. White spots filled Felix's vision before his air got taken away with a kick to the stomach.

"You made me a laughing stock."

"Not........my fault," Felix coughed out.

Patrick growled and kicked him multiple times making Felix curl into a ball. Out of breath, Patrick reached down and grabbed him by the hair. Reaching in his pocket, he pulled out a switchblade as the metal gleamed off the flashlight beam.

"I would crave my name into you to make you my bitch, but then your brother............."

He couldn't finish as Felix headbutted him in the chin dazing him. He then tackled him to the ground before letting out a yell and rolled off him, the switchblade deep in his side.

"Oh shit," Patrick panicked as he got up quickly and rushed over.

The blood was coming out fast and non stop.

"Shit, shit, shit. What do I do?' Patrick panicked and looked around.

The flashlight made a certain object glow dimly. Patrick rushed over to see Felix's phone. Grabbing it, he placed it in his hand and whimpered.

"I'm sorry. Shit, I'm so sorry."

Before he could respond, Patrick ran away. Felix felt light headed as his bloody hand opened the phone and dialed home. All he got was a busy signal.

"Bro..........ther," Felix said trying his phone.

Sophie watched as Azmo was under her desk fixing her computer.

"You know, this could've waited."

"No it couldn't. I need my YouTube." Sophie said sticking out her tongue.

"You owe me," Azmo chuckled as his phone vibrated. "Hello?"

"Bro.......ther."

"Felix?" Azmo said sitting up. "What's wrong?"

"It.........hurts. I.......feel cold."

"Felix where are you?"

"Park......." was all Felix could manage.

"Felix? Felix?"

"What's wrong?" Sophie asked.

"Felix sounded hurt. I've got to go."

"Where is he?" she asked getting dressed also.

"The park was the last thing he said."

They rushed to the car and made a beeline to the park, running a couple of red lights. Azmo tried calling home but got the same thing as Felix did.

"Shit, what the hell is mom doing at a time like this?"

Azmo didn't even park the car as he rode it on the grass. He saw something he never wanted to see as Felix laid there unmoving.

"FELIX!!" he yelled getting out the car. "Sophie call the ambulance."

"Okay."

Azmo rushed over and held Felix in his arms.

"Felix? Felix? Come on open your eyes."

Felix opened his eyes as he saw Azmo.

"Bro.......ther."

"Who did this?" Azmo said in tears.

"Pa.....trick."

Sophie rushed over and gasped before going to tears. Azmo was furious that Patrick would take it this far. Looking at his side, he saw the blade and pulled it out making Felix cry in pain.

"Come on Felix hang in there." Azmo said, his hand over the wound as the ambulance was heard in the distance.

"I'm.......scared. Don't.......leave me."

"I won't. I'm right here."

Azmo held him tight and cried as the ambulance got there.

---

"Jesus that's awful," Marvin said sadly. "What happened then?"

Deloris was in tears as she continued.

"The police showed up at out door while me and Bradley were engaged. We managed to untangle ourselves and I answered the door in my robe. When he told me the news, I was speechless and shocked. I got dressed quickly along with Bradley and rushed to the hospital. When we got there, they informed me that Felix died."

"I'm so sorry."

"I found Azmo in the waiting room with Sophie. His hands were covered in blood as he looked at them with a vacant stare. He wasn't even crying. Then he turned his head and looked at us. That's when he saw Bradley and lost control cause he knew what we were doing when Felix was trying to call us."

Deloris's hand shook the cup she was holding.

"I never seen him so enraged as he lunged at Bradley saying 'You killed him.' over and over. It took two cops to pry him off before the doctors sedated him. That was a month ago and since then, he hasn't forgiving me or him."

Marvin crossed his arms as his ears twitched. His mind was deep in thought.

"Has he showed any kind of emotion since then?"

"No. At the funeral, he still had those empty eyes, void of anything."

"I see."

"Can you help him?"

"I might be able to but it will take some time."

"Please do what you can. I just want him back to normal."

"Will tomorrow be okay for him?"

"Of course." Deloris said with a nod.

Paulu rushed downstairs and hugged Marvin.

"Thanks Marvin, I love it."

"I knew you would."

They chatted a but more before Marvin said he had to go.

"See you again Paulu."

"Bye Marvin."

Deloris let out a sigh as her head hurt. Paulu looked at her with his ears folded.

"You okay mom?"

"Fine sweetie. Just need some aspirin."

---

"So Azmo got suspended huh?" Derrick said drinking some soda at lunch.

"Yeah. From what I heard he was suppose to be expelled but Mr. Bradley made a plea with the principal. I thought he was going to kill him when he grabbed him that day." Phil said.

"He really needs to let go," Sophie said sadly. "Keeping it bottled up inside all this time is really getting to him."

"Sophie!!"

Sophie turned to see Paulu skip up to her.

"Cutie!!" Sophie cheered and pulled him into her cuddling him making him squeal with joy. "You hungry?"

"Nah. Me and Ruby had lunch together."

"Oh Ruby huh? Your girlfriend?"

"No, just a friend," Paulu said with a blush.

"Are you sure?" Sophie said tickling him.

"Yes." Paulu giggled.

The bell rang as Paulu got up and hurried down the hill.

"Bye sis."

"Bye cutie."

---

Azmo laid in the bed, staring the wall. Even though he was suspended, Sophie promised to bring him his homework.

"Maybe I should've assaulted him."

Deloris sat in the living room taking a personal day off. She sighed before rubbing her temple as the headache came back. The doorbell rang as she got up and opened it.

"Hey Deloris," Marvin said.

Instead of his usual business attire, he was wearing a pair of jogging pants that was black with a white stripe up the side and a tee shirt.

"Hello Marvin. Come on in."

She sat back down and groaned.

"He's upstairs. Good luck."

"Thanks."

Marvin walked up the stairs before knocking on the door.

"Azmodius? Its me Marvin. Can I come in?"

"Its a free country."

Marvin opened the door to see Azmo laying down, his right leg up as his left leg crossed it. He turned his head as those grey eyes looked at Marvin.

"What do you want/"

"I'm here to talk." Marvin said taking a seat on his chair.

"What's to talk about?"

"You tell me."

"I'm fine."

"No your not."

Azmo looked at him again before snorting.

"Don't presume you know everything about me."

"Then help me learn."

"No thanks."

This is going to be harder then I thought Marvin thought. Azmo's stomach growled which made him groan.

"You hungry?"

"What's it to you?'

"How about some lunch, my treat?"

Azmo looked at him again before shrugging.

"Whatever."

"Great. Get dressed. There's a nice pizza shop a couple of blocks from here."

Marvin went downstairs to see Deloris with a cloth over her forehead.

"I'm taking Azmodius with me for lunch."

"Okay."

Azmo came down in a pair of shorts and a tank top.

"Lets go buddy."

"Whatever."

---

Paulu hopped off the bus, a smile on his face. He opened the door and tossed his shoes off.

"Mom, I'm home."

"Your home early sport."

"Half day today," Paulu said seeing Deloris on the couch.

He walked over and cuddled under her as she hugged him close making him murr.

"I'm sorry for Azmo Paulu."

"Don't be mom."

"I just wish he would go back to the way he was."

Deloris softly rubbed his back. She head his breathing get relaxed before he dozed off. She followed shortly after enjoying her furry blanket.

---

"So tell me about yourself Azmo," Marvin said eating a slice of mushroom pizza.

"Why?"

"Cause I'm suppose to help you. The school will need my approval on whether to let you back in or not. If I disapprove, you'll be expelled and possibly charged with assault."

Azmo let out a laugh at that.

"That dickhead would do that too."

"So again," Marvin said taking a sip of soda. "Tell me about yourself or Felix."

He watched Azmo's hand grip the soda bottle hard.

"He was the best brother I could hope. Funny and a blast to be around."

"Was he well liked?"

"Everybody loved him cause he had a great personality. People always asked me to bring him to parties."

Marvin watched his body movement which seem to relax when he was talking about his brother.

"How about your father?"

"Dad? He left us for some bimbo at work. Only saw him at the funeral."

"Do you miss him?"

"Not really."

"What about your mom?"

"Ask the blue freak."

"His name is Paulu."

Azmo shrugged before chugging his soda.

"Your mom needs some emotional support right now. She needs you more then you think."

"She should've thought of that before unplugging the phone."

"People make mistakes."

Azmo grunted and looked away.

"Why can't you see she's trying to make amends?"

"By adopting a furry looking mega-man? You could've fooled me."

"She's not trying to forget Felix Azmodius. She's trying to move on."

"Look, can we drop this?" Azmo said irritated.

"Just tell me why your hate her?"

"Drop it."

"Tell me."

"BECAUSE SHE LEFT HIM THERE TO DIE!!" Azmo yelled.

People stopped what they were doing and looked their way.

"She had the fucking nerve to unplug the phone and let him die while she got some fucking cock in her. You know what that's like? She's suppose to be there for her SON, not some fucking school teacher."

Marvin once again shivered as those eyes, void of anything, even the anger he was showing, was looking right at him.

"You don't know what its like to watch somebody you grew up with, played tag with, even told bedtime stories to, die in your arms. So do yourself a favor "Marvin", don't try to help me."

Azmo walked away after that.

"Azmodius wait."

"Leave me alone. I'm done talking."

"Azmodius."

Azmo felt a weight on his shoulder making him tense. He turned and drove his fist into his stomach making Marvin grunt and go to one knee.

"Don't touch me. Don't come near me again. If you want to pity somebody, speak to my neglectful mother."

Marvin caught his breath and looked up to see Azmo turn the corner.

"His emotion is to built up. I need to reach him quickly."

---

Paulu sat in art class drawing a mountain landscape with some paint. Mr. Weatherby watched him in awe.

"Beautiful brush stroke Paulu."

"Thanks."

"You ever try doing a self portrait?"

"It couldn't be too hard but he'll probably run out of blue," the wolf chuckled making the class giggle.

"Shut up Barkley. Your just jealous." Ruby said.

"Why should I be jealous of him?"

Ruby tried to think of something but Mr. Weatherby spoke up.

"He has a better grasp of art then you'll ever have Barkley. To me, his art captives and surprises me with the color he uses. While your art," he said walking over to see him drawing a building badly. "Your art says help me please. This boy doesn't know what he's doing."

All the kids started laughing making Barkley growl as the bell rang.

"All right kids see you Monday. Those of you who are taking the art club come back after school."

Paulu grabbed his backpack as he and Ruby walked to their next class.

"You join the art class Paulu?" she asked.

"Yeah. Mr. Weatherby asked me too. How about you?"

"Maybe I should now that you're in it."

Paulu blushed before letting out a yelp as he was grabbed from behind and pinned against the locker.

"You listen to me blue boy," Barkley growled angrily. "Don't ever laugh at me again."

With that said, he struck Paulu in the stomach making him yelp and curl into a ball on the ground.

"Barkley you bully, leave him alone."

"Shut up runt. Your lucky my sister likes you." Barkley snarled before walking away.

Ruby rushed over to Paulu who had tears in his eyes.

"You okay?" she asked softly.

"Yeah."

A weasel walked out the his classroom to see Paulu on the floor.

"What's wrong son?" he asked.

"Barkley punched him in the stomach."

"Is that so? Well I'll talk to the principal. You two head to class."

Paulu got up after catching his breath.

"Barkley's a jerk. I wish he'd leave you alone."

"Its okay. I'm use to being made fun of because of my color."

"Well its not right."

"Thanks," Paulu said with a smile making her blush.

---

Weekend hit as kids took joy in not going to school. Paulu sat in his room watching cartoons when he heard the doorbell.

"Hey spotty, come on in," Deloris said.

"Hey cuteness." Bradley said hugging her.

Paulu watched from the railing as they entered the living room. Curiosity got the best of him as he tip toed downstairs. He heard laughter and giggling before Bradley spoke up.

"Is Azmodius here?"

"No. He went to the arcade. So we have a couple of hours to ourselves."

"I still can't believe he attacked me again."

"I'm sorry love."

"Don't be. I just want to make amends with him."

"Such a gentlemen," she sighed before kissing him.

Paulu peeked around the corner to see them kissing lovingly. He let out a gasp which Bradley heard as his ears perked up.

"We've been spotted," he said softly.

Deloris turned to see Paulu peeking.

"Come here cutie."

Paulu walked over, holding his tail nervously.

"This is Bradley. Bradley this is Paulu."

"Hello," Paulu said softly.

"He's cute Deloris. The blue fur just enhances it."

Paulu blushed before giggling as Bradley tickled him.

"I take it Azmodius hasn't warmed up to him yet?"

"No, not yet." Deloris sighed.

The sound of a car engine pulling up made everybody freeze before it shut off.

"Quick hide," Deloris said. "If that's Azmo, there's no telling what he'll do."

Bradley got up and hid in the jacket closet. Footsteps approached the door before the bell rang. Deloris peeked into the peep hole to see Marvin standing there. She let out a sigh before opening it.

"Hello Marvin."

"Hi Deloris how are you?"

"Pretty well today. Come on in."

"Thank you."

Marvin walked in as Paulu yipped happily.

"Marvin!!"

"Hey sport," Marvin smiled giving him a hug. "How are you doing?"

"Great," Paulu said, tail wagging rapidly.

The jacket closet door opened as Bradley peeked out.

"Its okay Bradley, come out."

He nodded before stepping out and saw Marvin sitting down besides Paulu.

"You're Bradley I take it?" Marvin questioned.

"That's me."

"Nice to meet you. I heard what happened with Azmodius."

Bradley let out a sigh.

"He's a good kid. I just want him to forgive me."

"It'll be hard. His emotions have taken over him so much. Has he cried anytime after the funeral?"

"No. He just sits in his room and ignores everybody. Even his friends are worried about him."

"Is my brother okay?" Paulu asked with his ears bent down.

"He's just going through an emotional time right now." Marvin said.

"Will he........ever like me?"

"Sure he will sweetie," Deloris added.

Paulu nodded before giggling as Marvin ruffled him between the ears.

"So where is Azmodius?"

"At the arcade. You'll probably find him at the batting cage."

"Okay. See you later Paulu."

"Bye Marvin."

---

Azmo swung the bat as it connected with a metal clank with the ball.

"I don't need help." he said angrily.

The machine made a clicking sound before pitching another ball which got smacked into the net behind it.

"I'll never forgive either of them. They caused everything to be this way."

Another ball was pitched as he swung angrily. He pictured every ball he hit was Bradley's head. The machine threw another pitch before buzzing to a halt. Azmo dug into his pocket for some more tokens and walked out the cage only to come face to face with Marvin.

"You again?"

"You have good form but swing the bat with so much anger."

"You rather I swing it at you?" Azmo said bluntly holding the bat over his shoulder.

"Not really. You already got in one shot at me," Marvin chuckled.

Azmo put his tokens in and entered the cage as the machine started up again.

"Sorry for hitting you."

"No problem. So what do you want to talk about today?"

"Whatever floats your boat," Azmo said swinging.

"Okay then, I'll tell you about me."

Marvin sat on a chair next to the cage.

"My name is Marvin Cutter, thirty three years old married with two kids. My wife's name is Beth. My son's name is Joey and my daughter's name is Halley. I grew up in North Dakota and got a full scholarship cause of my high GPA. I went to Harvard and majored in psychology."

"Quite an egghead aren't you?" Azmo said connecting with another pitch.

"I just like to keep my mind busy. Lets see, anything else...? Oh yeah, I like to read, play tennis, basketball, and go swimming. I'm 6'2, two hundred and ten pounds. My sign is Gemini and I lost my virginity at age nineteen to my first girlfriend Justine."

That last statement caught Azmo off guard as he missed the next pitch.

"A little bit too much info there."

"Now your turn."

Azmo let out a grunt and connected with another pitch.

"Azmodius Matador. Twenty years old, single. I'm taking up electrical engineer at Tidel High. I'm 6'0, one hundred and ninety pounds."

"When did you become a man?" Marvin asked.

"None of your business."

"Come on, what's to be ashamed of?"

Azmo looked at him briefly before sighing.

"Eighteen."

"Nice. Was she hot?"

"Excuse me?"

"Was she drop dead beautiful or Medusa ugly?"

For a second, Marvin thought he saw a tiny smile on his face.

"She's beautiful, but it didn't go well with each other."

"How come?"

"Different views."Azmo said as the machine stopped and he put the bat in the bucket.

"Care for a soda? My treat."

"Why not."

They walked up to the counter and ordered some coke and sat down at the bar and had some idle chatter which Azmo responded with single word answers.

"What are you doing Tuesday?" Marvin asked.

"Why?"

"I need a doubles partner for a tennis match at the YMCA. You want to help?"

"Don't know how to play. Plus its Sophie's birthday that day so I couldn't go."

"Sophie"

"My ex."

"Ahh. Well tell her I said happy birthday."

"I'll think about it."

Marvin finished his drink before noticing a racing game.

"Care for a race?" Marvin asked with a toothy grin.

"Which game?"

"Cruising USA."

"You can't handle me."

"Then lets have a little bet."

Azmo looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

"If I win, you have to let everything off your chest. Stop treaty your mother and Paulu like that are garbage."

"And if I win, I never want to see you again. Stay out of my life and let me live the way I want to."

"Agreed." Marvin said, hand extended.

Azmo looked at him for a second. He agreed to that kind of quickly. He's either good or trying to scare me.

"Bet made," Azmo said shaking.

"Well, shall we begin?" Marvin gestured with an open palm.

"Very well."

---

The weekend flew by quickly as Paulu let out a groan getting dressed for school. The smell of pancakes and bacon hit his nose as he licked his lips.

"Breakfast's ready Paulu. Go wash up."

"Okay."

Paulu walked into the bathroom and proceeded to brush his teeth and comb down his tail. Finishing up, he hopped downstairs to see his breakfast all set. He dug in happily as Deloris drank her tea.

"I'm going grocery shopping today. You want anything special?"

"Hmm?" Paulu thought while tapping the plate with his fork. "How about a bag of grapes?"

"Seedless?"

"Yes please."

"Consider it done,"she smiled as she tickled him under the chin making him murr happily. "You need to hurry or you'll miss your bus."

Paulu munched down everything that was left before putting on his shoes and giving Deloris a hug.

"Bye mom."

"See you when you get back sport."

The door closed as she let out a sigh. She got up and cleaned the table off before heading upstairs to Azmo's door which was closed.

"Azmo?"

She got no answer before trying again.

"Azmo?'

"What?" came a muffled respond.

"I need to go shopping. You want to come with me?"

"When?"

"In about thirty minutes. I need to clean up downstairs."

"I got nothing else better to do since that asshat got me suspended."

Deloris balled her fists and wanted to say something but let it go.

"I'll call you when I'm ready."

"Fine."

Azmo heard the footsteps leave before tossing the covers over his head. He returned his thoughts to what happened a couple days ago.

"Your lagging behind," Marvin said shifting gears.

Azmo let out a grunt as the wheel shook from him riding in the dirt.

"I'm taking my time."

"Don't look like it to me."

Azmo looked with amazement as Marvin drifted the sharp turns with ease as his feet worked the pedals like a pro. He had the lead halfway through until a sharp turn took him out which Marvin had no trouble getting through.

"Screw this," Azmo said hitting the nitro button as his car sped forward.

"Easy there. Don't waste it all." Marvin said with a grin.

The finish line was close as Azmo used his last nitro.

"Ha, I win."

"Not quite." Marvin said.

He hit the nitro just as Azmo's ran out and zoomed past him to the finish line.

"Victory," Marvin said holding up two fingers.

"Bullshit," Azmo growled as he hit the wheel.

"Since I won the bet, I'll see you Wednesday for your opening day."

Marvin got up and walked to the exit, his tail wagging happily. Azmo hit the wheel again before cursing.

---

The bell for lunch rang as Paulu heading towards the hill trail.

"Paulu, wait up."

He looked back to see Ruby running up.

"Where you going?"

"To eat lunch with sis."

"You have a sister?"

"Not really but she wants me to call her sis."

They walked up the hill as Paulu scanned the area and saw Sophie with Derrick, Alef, and Ivan.

"There she is."

Paulu walked up as Sophie gave a squeal.

"Cutie," she cheered hugging him in her lap. "Who's your friend?"

"This is Ruby."

"Hi."

"Ohh, she's pretty Paulu. Nice pick."

"Its not like that," Paulu said blushing along with Ruby.

"What are you doing tomorrow cutie?"

"I don't know, why?"

"Its my birthday tomorrow."

"Wow, cool. Am I invited?"

"Why do you think I'm asking silly."

"Sure, I'd love to go."

Sophie cheered and kissed his cheek making him blush.

"Can Ruby come?"

"I don't know. She'll have to ask her parents."

"I know they'll say yes if I'm there." Alef said. "I use to babysit her."

"Great," Sophie cheered as the bell rang. "I'll see you tomorrow night okay. Can you get a ride from Azmo?"

"He still doesn't like me."

"Don't worry cutie. I'll make him."

"Okay. I don't know what to get you though."

"Just bring yourself cutie. That'll be my present."

Paulu blushed but nodded his head.

---

Azmo was reluctant but Sophie said if he didn't bring Paulu to not come at all. The side streets were cramped as music could be heard from outside the house as people were dancing and laughing.

"Do yourself a favor. Act like you don't know me."Azmo said coldly.

"Okay," Paulu said softly ears down.

They got out the car and up to the two story house. Outside on the front porch were some of the baseball players. They looked up and waved at Azmo before looking at Paulu.

"Is that the blue wonder that has Sophie all riled up?" a beagle asked.

"Don't know, don't care."

"Is he related to you?" a lab asked.

"Do we look the same?"

Everybody chuckled as Azmo walked in leaving Paulu. The music was loud as people crowded the hallway and stairs. Sophie was in the living room with Ivan when she saw Paulu.

"There he is," she squealed with joy.

"Hey sis," Paulu said before she gave him another hug and kiss on the cheek.

"Look who's here," she said pointing to Ruby who was with Alef.

"Ruby!!" he yipped happily.

"Come sit with me and meet everybody."

"Okay."

Azmo disappeared into the crowd not really caring about anything. He grabbed a can of Jolt cola before walking out the front door onto the the porch stairs.

"Felix would've loved this" he said to himself as he looked up into the night sky.

The stars were bright as they surrounded the quarter moon like a blanket. He reached into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet, taking out a picture. It was of him and Felix at his seventh birthday. He got him a remote controlled car that he always wanted. But all that was taken away from him. Just thinking about it brought more anger into him. He closed his wallet with a sigh before downing his soda.

"Hey Azmodius, what a hit man?"

Azmo looked up to see a rottie that was in his electronics class holding a blunt.

"Nah man, I don't do that stuff."

"Come on man. You look tense and this does wonders for you when your tense."

"No thanks man."

"Okay, your lose."

The rottie walked around the house before stopping and shouting back.

"She's about to open her presents so you might want to head in."

"Thanks Allen."

Azmo got up and headed to his car and opened the glove compartment pulling out an envelope. He managed to get a ticket for an all day massage and beauty parlor at Wellspring Spa. Closing the door, he made it inside as they finished singing happy birthday.

"Wow, a trip to a ski resort. Your too kind Ivan," she said kissing him. "Paulu, go around and collect some presents for me."

"Okay sis."

People started warming up to him cause he had a nice sense of humor and was too cute to resist. He got to Azmo and tugged at the envelope.

"What are you doing?"

"Sophie said to collect some presents."

"I can do it myself."

"But......"

"Go away," Azmo said angrily shoving him.

He shoved a little too hard as Paulu tripped over his foot and fell backwards with a loud crash as he hit his head on the end table. He let out a yelp holding his head in pain.

"Oh my god, Paulu," Sophie said rushing over. "Let me see it."

He moved his hand slowly showing a tiny bit of blood.

"Alef, grab some bandages and a hot cloth for me."

"Okay," she said.

"What the hell is wrong with you Azmo?"

"Nothing's wrong with me."

"Why can't you be nice to Paulu. He's trying to be a good brother to you."

"He's not my brother."

"Yes he is."

Azmo grinded his teeth in anger.

"There is only one brother and he's six feet under ground."

"I know that Azmodius. Why can't you move on?"

"You don't understand. None of you do."

"I understand Azmo. I was there remember?"

Alef came back with some bandages and a hot cloth as Sophie began to clean Paulu's head.

"Its not bad cutie, but you'll have a headache and a nasty bump."

"Okay," Paulu said sniffling.

"At least its not serious. Jesus Azmo, he could've seriously been hurt."

"So?" Azmo bluntly.

Sophie stood up and decked him with a right hand making everybody gasp and some cheer.

"Get the fuck out of my house. I never want to see you again if your going to be like this."

Azmo looked at her shocked as he stood up rubbing his jaw.

"What about your present?"

"Shove it up your ass. Get out," she snarled.

"Sophie........"

"She said to get out," Ivan said walking up behind her.

Everybody gave Azmo an evil glare as he balled his fists angrily.

"Fine. I don't need you. I don't NEED any of you mother fuckers." Azmo yelled.

He stormed out the house and into his car. Revving up the engine, he took off down the street.

"I'm sorry cutie," Sophie said caressing his cheek.

"Can I go home?" Paulu said softly.

"Sure. Derrick can you take him home?"

"Sure thing. Come on little guy."

Derrick drove him home and walked him to the front door.

"Listen Paulu, don't think badly of Azmodius. I'm sure in time he'll come to like you."

Deloris opened the door and gasped when she saw the bandage over his head.

"Paulu what happened?"

"Azmo pushed him I don't know if by accident but he tripped on the way down and hit his head on the table."

"Dammit Azmodius."

"I'm sorry Mrs. Matador."

"Its okay. Thank you for bringing him home."

"No problem. Bye Paulu."

"Bye Derrick."

Deloris took him upstairs to his room and laid him down gently.

"My head hurts." he whined.

"I know. Just get some rest and I'll tell the school you won't be in tomorrow."

"Okay," Paulu nodded and snuggled under the covers.

Deloris closed the door softly and balled her fists angrily.

"Something wrong love?" Bradley asked from the bedroom door.

"Azmo hurt Paulu. I've had it. If Marvin doesn't help him, so help me god I'll hurt that boy."

"I'm sorry."

"I'm done being sorry. He's going to get over this and he's going to get over it now."

---

The morning sun rose slowly in the horizon as the wildlife began to stir. Azmo was in the cemetery by Felix's grave, his back to it as he held his knees to his chest.

"They all forgotten about you Felix but I haven't. I never will. They even accepted that blue freak as my brother. I only have one brother and that's you."

Azmo drove straight to the cemetery after leaving the party and spent the night in his car next to the grave. He didn't even go to sleep as his anger kept him up. He didn't think everybody would turn on him but they did.

"Screw them all."

A light breeze blew some leaves by. Azmo closed his eyes as sleep was hitting him. A loud slam of a car door woke him up a couple hours later. He looked to see Marvin with a growl on his face walk angrily up to him.

"Let's go, your coming with me."

"Why?"

"I said, lets go," Marvin growled and picked him up by his shirt.

"Let me go."

Azmo managed to get out of his grasp but Marvin was quicker as he slammed him onto the car hood.

"You listen to me. I don't care how you go about your life but when you put your hands on one of my clients, I don't hold back my anger. So now, your going to feel it. Get in the car."

Azmo, to shocked to do anything, got in. Marvin followed and revved up his engines before leaving the graveyard.

"What about my......."

"Shut up and sit there."

He drove past the city limits as Azmo started to get a little scared. Marvin took the next exit and onto the city street. A couple more blocks and a YMCA appeared around the corner which he turned into.

"What are we doing here?"

"Get out," Marvin said.

Azmo got out and had to jog to keep up with him. They walked up to the entrance as a roo greeted them.

"Is he the one?" the roo asked.

"Yeah. Are we all set?"

"Yep. Nobody's in there so your good to go."

"Thanks Joshua. Lets go."

Azmo followed him downstairs and into the gym which was void of people. Marvin walked over to the boxing ring and tossed Azmo a pair of gloves.

"Put them on. I'm going to give you a lesson on how to be angry."

Azmo put on the gloves and watched Marvin jump into the ring and stretch before putting on a pair himself.

"What are you waiting for? Scared?"

"I'm not scared of anything."

"Put on your helmet, cause I'm not holding back."

Azmo put on the padded helmet in time to get a body blow sending him to the ropes.

"Cheap shot."

"You're one to talk."

Azmo put his guard up as Marvin came at with lefts and rights. A hook to the head had him reeling as he went to one knee.

"What's wrong Azmodius? I bet your brother could do better then this."

This got the reaction he wanted as he ducked and evaded Azmo's swings.

"Haha, I know Felix was better even without meeting him. Were you jealous?"

"Shut up," Azmo yelled.

"He could've been a better sportsman then you if he was alive."

"Shut up. You have no right to talk about him."

"That's it. Just a little more push and I know I can get it out of him." Marvin said to himself as he took a blow to the chest.

"I bet Bradley liked him better."

"Bradley doesn't care."

"Oh, but he cared enough to get into your mother's pants."

Azmo let out a yell and threw Marvin into the corner and began a relentless attack.

"He caused it. He caused all of it."

"It was an accident."

"He killed him. They both killed him," Azmo yelled, tears finally coming down his face. "His never coming back. NEVER!! I'll never hear him laugh or cry and its all their fault."

He drew back for another swing which Marvin ducked under causing Azmo to crash into the corner. He slid down to the mat crying for the first time in a long time. Marvin looked at him with his ears down and tail drooped as he sat next to him. Cautiously, he put on arm around him and pulled him close as Azmo cried on his shoulder.

"Let it out. Let it all out."

After a while of crying, Azmo was laying on his back, eyes closed as his head pounded from crying.

"Feel better?" Marvin asked.

"Somewhat. My head hurts along with my arms."

"I don't blame them. You were swinging like a wild man. Good thing I avoided half of them."

Azmo chuckled but regretted it as his head throbbed.

"So tell me a little more about Felix."

Azmo let out a sigh before opening his eyes looking at the ceiling.

"He was more then a brother to me. He was my best friend. We were always there for each other, even when dad left us."

"What did he like to do as a hobby?"

"He was a reader. Always had a book in his hand. You could always find him in the library. He said he was going to own his own library one day." Azmo chuckled. "Even young I kind of envy him. He was smart for his age and picked up on things quickly. Even some of my friends went to him for help."

"How did he die?"

Azmo was quiet before closing his eyes.

"Stabbed in the stomach which pierced his liver. Doctors said if he gotten help sooner, they could've saved him. I blame myself."

"Don't. That's how you ended up the way you were. Death of a love one is a painful thing. But instead of dwelling on how you could've done this and that, focus on the happy memories he gave the both of you."

"You're probably right. God I messed up so bad."

"Nobody blames you Azmodius. They knew what kind of pain you were in and wanted nothing more then to see you well."

He let out a shaky sigh before sitting up. Marvin was right. He was so caught up in his emotional anger that he was hurting himself as well as the people around him. The silence was broken up by his stomach growling.

"Hungry?" Marvin said with a laugh.

"Yeah."

"Lets go grab some lunch then."

"Cool."

They headed back to the car and into town with more talk as Azmo opened up. It was close to dark when they came back to his car.

"Thanks..............for everything," Azmo said quietly.

"Its my job."

"Don't know how I'll face mom after this."

"Just say your sorry. Simple as that."

"Yeah, guess your right."

Azmo got out and headed to his car before Marvin called him.

"I'll give the school a call and let them know your clear."

"Thanks."

"See you soon Azmo." Marvin said and drove off.

---

The lights were off in his house as he drove into the driveway. He saw his mom van along with Bradley's car. He got out and closed the door quietly. Opening the front door, he walked in and took off his shoes when he heard rustling in the kitchen.

"Oh man, I needed that," Bradley said with a sigh washing a glass.

He headed out and let out a gasp when he saw Azmo standing there. A small whine escaped him as he backed up a little.

"A......Azmo, I......didn't see.....you there."

Azmo walked up to him making him shiver a little. He held out his hand making Bradley flinch before looking at him.

"I'm sorry Bradley. I shouldn't have.........assaulted you like I did."

Bradley looked at him before smiling and shaking his hand.

"You have nothing to be sorry about. I never wanted what happened to happen."

"I know that now."

They separated before heading upstairs.

"So did I miss much?" Azmo chuckled.

"I'll let you make it up to me on the weekend."

"Fair enough."

Bradley walked into Deloris's room where she was doing some paperwork. She looked up to see Azmo as she stood up. He walked over and hugged her tight before crying. She hugged back crying herself.

"I'm sorry mom."

"Don't be baby. I'm just glad to have you back."

Bradley smiled watching them as everything went back to normal.

"You stink," she chuckled.

"I know. Marvin and I had a boxing match. I'm going to grab a shower."

"If your hungry, there's some stew left over in the fridge."

"Thanks mom."

They watched him leave as Deloris wiped some tears from her eyes.

"He's back." Bradley said holding her from behind.

"I'm so glad. He finally let go."

Bradley ran a hand over her stomach softly making her shiver.

"How about we celebrate?"

"Mmmmm why not. I feel like playing connect the dots anyway."

"Sounds like a plan."

---

Azmo knocked on the door, butterflies in his stomach. He wasn't sure if Sophie would forgive him for what he did. The door opened as Sophie stood there in a pair of silk pajamas bottoms and a shirt with no bra.

"What the fuck do you want?" she said angrily crossing her arms. "You know half the people think you're a dickhead for what you did."

"I am a dickhead Sophie. I regret what I did. I just........."

"Was lost in your anger and couldn't let go?"

"Yeah. I'm sorry Sophie. If you never want to speak to me again, I understand."

Sophie looked into his grey eyes and saw he was honest.

"Humph, your lucky you're so damn sexy."

Azmo walked up to her and hugged her which she returned. He couldn't resist and reached down to squeeze her ass making her jump.

"Jerk," she laughed pushing him gently. "Sorry about hitting you but you made me mad."

Azmo pulled her close and kissed her making her meep before going weak in the knees and pressing back into him. He broke off making her whine a she smiled.

"Go back out with me and we'll call it even."

"Deal. You don't have to ask twice."

"Geez just like that. What about Ivan?"

"He was starting to be a jerk anyway. Besides, he doesn't bring the wild side out of me like you do when having sex."

"I feel honored. See you in school Monday."

---

Paulu sat in his room playing his DS. Deloris went out with Bradley and left him alone with Azmo. He wasn't sure if Azmo liked him still after all this time but Deloris said everything is okay. His stomach growled as he got up and went to Azmo's door. He knocked softly as the music was turned down and Azmo opened the door looking down at him.

"Azmo.......I.......I'm hungry."

Azmo looked at him before giving him a soft smile.

"What do you want to eat?"

"Pizza?"

"Sure thing. Let me call."

Paulu looked confused but didn't question it. Thirty minutes later he was chomping down pepperoni and sausage pizza in Azmo's room. He looked around and saw various posters and pictures of video games and movies.

"Cool posters."

"Want one for your room?"

"If I could?"

"Which one?"

Paulu pointed at the Metroid Prime picture. Azmo took it down and put it up in his room.

"Thanks Azmo."

"No problem. Want to play some games with me?"

"Yeah," Paulu said happily.

They sat down and started to play Gears of War. Paulu caught on the controls quick much to Azmo's surprise. They played for a while until lighting flashed in the sky making Paulu jump into Azmo's lap.

"Scared of the storm?"

"Yeah."

Soon rain came down hard hitting the window like hail. Azmo stood up and looked out the window as it came down.

"Wow, its coming down hard."

The phone rang as he picked it up.

"Matador residents."

"Azmo, I'm going to spend the night at Bradley's. The storm is pretty bad out."

"I know."

"Are you going to be okay?"

"I'm little anymore mom."

"I know. How's Paulu?"

"He's fine. We ate some pizza and playing some games."

"Good. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay."

They played some more until a loud boom followed by a crack of lighting made the house go dark.

"Guess the power's out."

"I'm scared." Paulu whined.

"Relax. I'm right here."

Paulu held him tight, his head under Azmo's chin. Azmo chuckled and patted his head.

"You do remind me of Felix somewhat."

"I do?"

"Yeah. Your both scared of lighting. Stay here, I'm going to grab some candles."

Paulu let out a whine as Azmo got up. He heard his curses when he bumped into things. Thunder and lighting went wild outside making the house shake as Paulu whined.

"Relax, I'm back." Azmo said hold two candles in a holder.

He placed it on the dresser lightly dimming the room with a soft glow. Paulu held onto him tight as the storm raged on. Azmo looked at him as he remembered Sophie would cuddle up to him like this. His thoughts got the best of him as Paulu felt a small poke on his thigh and looked down to see Azmo's shorts tented.

"Azmo.........do you........like me?"

"Of course I do. I'm just sorry that I treated you the way I did."

"I meant.....do you like me?"

Azmo looked confused before it dawned on him that he was sporting an erection.

"Umm.....you see....."

He couldn't finish as Paulu reached down and squeezed it lightly making him groan.

"Its so big and warm."

"This.....this isn't right."

Paulu looked up at him, his purple eyes capturing Azmo. Azmo was speechless until Paulu leaned forward and kissed him. His body tensed and Paulu noticed as he pulled away whining.

"I'm sorry.......I didn't mean......."

Azmo's head was in a shock of emotions. His good side said to stop right now but his horny side said to relieve the pressure since Sophie wasn't here. With a swallow, he reached up and slowly took off Paulu's glasses making him ten times cuter.

"Jesus your cute." Azmo said softly making Paulu blush.

He pulled him close and kissed him again._ "What am I doing?"_ Azmo thought to himself as his tongue wormed its way into Paulu mouth and twisted with his making them both moan softly. He ran his hands under Paulu's shirt making his squirm before they parted breathing heavily.

"Should we be doing this?" Azmo said.

"Do you want us to stop?" Paulu asked.

"Do you?"

Paulu shook his head no.

"This feels to good to stop. I want to keep going."

Azmo looked at him before smiling.

"Okay. We'll go slow."

"Okay."

"First, we need to get rid of these," Azmo said tugging on his clothes.

Paulu nodded and stood up on the bed taking off his shirt. He sat down and took off his pajama bottom and underwear and sat there in the nude, his fox-hood poking out his sheath as he held his tail with a blush.

"Damn, he is cute," Azmo thought again as he took off his shirt and boxers.

Leaning back on the bed, he held his hand out to Paulu. Paulu crawled over and sat in his lap as they embraced again. Paulu's senses were overwhelmed as his penis rubbed Azmo's smooth belly making him bark softly. Azmo chuckled as he felt the wet pre Paulu made on his chest and looked down.

"Impressive for your age," he said reaching down and squeezing it softly making Paulu yip.

"Oh god," Paulu moaned.

Azmo watched Paulu's small body shiver with pleasure as he stroked him up and down. Paulu whined and bucked into the smooth hand. Azmo reached over to the dresser and pulled open the top draw taking out a small bottle.

"Been that long huh?" he said to himself.

He popped open the bottle and applied some to his hand stopping his motion as Paulu looked at him with confused and glazed eyes.

"Why did you stop?"

"Relax. You'll like this better. Put your hands on my shoulders."

Paulu nodded and placed his paws on his shoulder leaning up. He let out a gasp as something cool and slick was applied. He bucked his hips as a tight pressure was applied making him buck again and again. His ears folded back as pleasure so intense clouded his mind as he proceeded to thrust madly into Azmo's hand.

"Oh.........god this...........feels so good."

It wasn't long before his young body tensed up, his balls pulling into his body.

"Az......Azmo something.......good is happ.....ening to me. I.....can't stop......it."

"Don't try to stop it. Let it go."

Azmo felt the small knot that formed and made a ring around it. This was all Paulu could take as he made another thrust before letting out a bark as he came all over Azmo's chest. Azmo smiled as he looked cute, ears folded back, tail stiff as his body shook. After the shock passed, Paulu collapsed onto his chest smearing the cum between their chest.

"How did that feel?"

"Oh god.......it felt.......good."

Azmo laid back with Paulu on top rubbing his back. His erection was still hard and being tickled by Paulu's fur. After getting his sense back, Paulu sat up and looked at him.

"Thank you Azmo."

"Your quite welcomed."

"Can I make you feel that good?"

"Don't worry about me."

"But I want to. Please?" Paulu pouted.

"Okay you win."

Paulu gave a yip of happiness before reaching down and slowly stroking Azmo making him gasp. This was pure bliss for him as the pads on Paulu's hands were soft and smooth. A small bead of pre leaked out onto Paulu's hand before he brought it to his nose and gave it a sniff. It was strong and made his head spin lightly. He brought his hand back down continuing the motions until he got tired.

"I'm not good at this. I'm sorry."

"Don't be."

"I really want to make you feel good like you did to me."

Azmo was quiet looking into his eyes. He didn't want to suggest it but he did anyway.

"I could make us both feel good if you want."

"Really? How?"

"I'm going to put this inside you."

Paulu looked down at his shaft as it throbbed lightly. Could this really fit inside me?

"Okay," Paulu said nervously. "What do I do?"

"First, I need to get you ready. Lie down for me."

Paulu laid down on his back as Azmo sat up. He looked down and couldn't help but run his hand over Paulu's stomach making him moan softly.

"This is going to feel weird at first but it will end up feeling good."

"Okay."

Azmo applied some lube to his fingers and rubbed the tight ring under his tail. Paulu gasped as the cold touch.

"Cold."

"It'll warm up. Now I need you to relax."

Paulu nodded and closed his eyes. He felt pressure in his tail hole as Azmo pushed one finger in slowly. He panted hard and tensed up squeezing the finger.

"Relax," Azmo said softly rubbing his stomach again.

This had the desired effect as his body went limp. Azmo moved his finger back and forth slowly, getting a small moan from Paulu. He added a second one slowly before a third. Paulu's penis was hard and leaking pre onto his chest as he moaned. After a few minutes, Azmo pulled out and applied some lube onto his shaft.

"Okay Paulu, I need you to sit on my lap, hands on my shoulders and your tail up."

Paulu sat up and crawled onto his lap placing his hands on his shoulders again raising his tail. Azmo lined himself up before looking at him.

"You ready?"

"I'm ready."

"If this hurts, please tell me and I'll stop. I don't want to hurt you again."

Paulu nodded and relaxed his body. Azmo slowly pushed up feeling the resistance. With a small push, the small ring of muscle opened up making Paulu yelp.

"Are you okay? Do you want me to stop?"

"No. I can......do this."

Azmo pulled him down slowly feeling those tight walls close around him. Paulu gritted his teeth, tears starting to come down his face as he got penetrated.

"Paulu I'm going to stop. I'm hurting you."

"No Azmo. Please don't. Let me do this. Let me make you feel good." Paulu pleaded.

Azmo looked down and saw he was about three quarters of the way in. Grabbing his hips, he pulled him down more as he felt Paulu dig his claws into his shoulder. After another minute, Paulu sat flush on Azmo lap.

"You okay Paulu?"

"I think so. I feel.......full."

"I'll let you get adjusted."

Paulu nodded as he felt that shaft inside him throb lightly. It felt so weird but it also filled him with a warmth he couldn't explain. He shifted his hips causing an unbelievable surge of pleasure to run up his spine making him yip loudly.

"What......was that just now?"

"That is your prostate. You'll learn more about it in sex ed."

"I want to feel that again. Do it again."

Azmo lifted him up slowly before lowering him back down causing another wave of pleasure to shoot up his spine as pre shot onto Azmo's chest.

"M.....more," Paulu moaned.

Azmo nodded his head before he proceeded to slowly fuck Paulu. Paulu thought what he felt before was amazing, that was hundred times better. Each thrust upward made him tighten up on Azmo causing him to moan. Soon Paulu was beginning to push back on Azmo taking him deeper.

"Az.....Azmo this is......so good."

"God Paulu your so tight."

The sound of the storm outside was drowned out by the two as the only thing they heard was their hard breathing and moans. The candle lights flickered a little as they panted for air. Azmo felt his balls pull tight to his body. Without a second thought, he reached down and began to masturbate Paulu making him whine and tighten even more.

"Christ.......Paulu......I'm going.......to cum."

"Do it. I want......you to.......cum. I want.......to make........you feel..........good."

Azmo's hand was a blur on Paulu's cock as he reached lower and squeezed the knot. Paulu's eyes rolled into he back of his head and he let out a howl and came for the second time. The tight tunnel squeezing him along with the sight of Paulu cumming pushed Azmo over the edge as he pushed into him and came hard. Paulu's body shook hard as he was filled with a burning warmth.

"Fuck," Azmo said tiredly as they both collapsed on the bed.

"So........good." Paulu panted.

"Yes it was."

They listened to the rain hit the window as the smell of their activity filled the room.

"We need a shower."

"So.....tired though," Paulu said weakly.

"Yeah, that happens. Come on, you can shower with me."

Azmo pulled out with a shiver from both of them before carrying him into the shower. They showered down the event before drying off. Azmo headed to his room with Paulu behind him before he stopped and turned around.

"Sorry, I sleep alone."

"But......." Paulu whined.

"You have your own bed."

Paulu folded his ears and whined before letting out a yip as Azmo pulled him into a hug.

"I guess I can make this one exception."

"Thanks." Paulu said nuzzling him.

Paulu hopped into the bed getting under the covers as Azmo blew out the candles. He crawled in as he felt Azmo hug him tight with a sigh.

"Azmodius?"

"Yes?"

"Thank you for being my brother. Even though we're not really related."

"Just don't tell mom about this or we'll both be in trouble."

"Okay," Paulu mumbled softly before he passed out.

Azmo planted a kiss on his forehead and hugged him as they fell asleep.

---

Azmo was on one knee next to Felix's headstone.

"Hey bro, how you doing? Sorry I haven't been myself lately. I guess I took your death more harder then anybody."

He placed Felix's remote control that belong to his car on the grass.

"I figured you would want to have that with you since it was your favorite."

Looking at the headstone, he felt tears come into his eyes.

"God I miss you so much. Its just not the same without you."

He felt two arms around his neck as Paulu leaned on his back.

"Is this Felix's grave?"

"Yeah."

"Thank you Felix," Paulu said with a bow. "I sorry I never got the chance to meet you, but Azmodius is the best thing that's ever happened to me."

Azmo wiped the tears away before standing up. A car horn beeped as he looked to see Deloris, Bradley, Sophie, Ruby, and Alef waiting for him.

"Keep watch over me Felix. I'll come back to visit you every chance I get."

"Can I come?" Paulu asked.

"Your more then welcomed to. Now lets go have some fun at the amusement park."

"Yay!!" Paulu cheered rushing back to the van.

Azmo followed before stopping and looking back. With a smile and a nod, he walked back to his family and friends.