FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Home for some Holidays

Chapter One

>You are roused from your dreamless sleep by the blaring of your alarm.

>You groan and grunt before your hand grasps your phone and you turn off the offending noise.

>Despite the short sleep from the night previous, you're refreshed enough to face the world.

>"God fuckin' damn it."

>Okay maybe not quite.

>Pulling your arse out of bed you shamble your way through your apartment and to your bathroom.

>Look into the bathroom mirror. What a handsome human mug you have … right …

>You are Anon.

> …. PFFFFTT! Sorry just kidding, no you're not.

>You're Dwayne Cooper. It's August 2006, you're 28 and you stand a smidge over 5'10

>You have a quick shower and shave before returning to your bedroom to put on clean clothes.

>Blue jeans, dark blue T-shirt, you're looking sharp as fuck.

>First thing you do is open the curtains to your apartment, and gaze outside.

>AH London! Yep, you're British. You gaze along the streets and buildings of London, the crown jewel, the capital of the great country of England and can't help but think.

>"What a shit hole."

>Fuck this city. Sure, it was the capital, sure it was the only city foreigners knew, the palace and the Queen were here. But you disliked the people, they were snobbish and rude, ruder than you, you disliked how busy and cramped it was, you wanted to go home back up North.

>Ah the North! Where men were men, women could be quite manly too, and beer had taste and you didn't have to get a new mortgage to have a couple of pints on a night.

>You should maybe check with work see if you can get some time off.

>Thoughts of London and the like aside you check your phone see if there's any missed calls.

>One from mum. Missed her call about an hour ago. Wait what time is it?

>Check the clock. Says 11:15. You slept in. Fuck it.

>Make a mental note to ring mum back later. You're hungry now.

>Go to the kitchen and open the fridge. Find a cold steak from last night. Nice!

>Grab steak and throw it in the oven, let it reheat. Take the time to check your emails.

>Nothing but random stuff from things you subscribe to.

>Wait a fuckin' tick.

>You focus on something, a name. One you've not seen in a while.

>Allison Cranny.

>Well damn you've not heard from her in years. 10 Years to be exact.

>You two used to go to school together.

>She was a cute, kinda timid, nerdy little white and brown rabbit anthro. She didn't have too many friends. But she was a sweet girl.

>You have fond memories of fingering her around the back of the school bike sheds when you were 15.

>Also that blowjob in the boy's P.E changing rooms when you were 16. NICE!

>Wonder what she wants?

>You open the email. The heck?

>She and others are organising a school reunion. Really? You thought that was an American thing.

>Well, you did want to go back home for a bit of time, you supposed.

>But some of those wankers you were happy not seeing ever again.

>Like that lion anthro; Adam Davis.

>He was a big guy for his age back then, but that gave him the ego to pick on people smaller than him.

>People like you and yours friends.

>Not you specifically obviously, not after the event. Which you recall fondly.

>Allison says she wants to do it for Halloween. Eh. Fuck it. Why not? It'll be a laugh if nothing else.

>You reply saying you'll be there if you can.

>Time to check in to work.

>You pull up a number on your phone and give it a ring.

>"Hello Mr Cooper." Comes a sweet voice on the other end.

>"Hey Lucy lass, listen is there any work for me today?" you ask as politely as you can.

>"Didn't you just get back last night?" Lucy replies

>Yes that you did, you just got back into England last night. You say as such.

> “Well I believe that gives you some time off, I'm sure nothing dreadful will happen with you off."

> “Don't jinx it, please." You ask in a semi-serious tone. You never know in your line of work.

> “Of course sorry. But yeah, nothing going on just now. Management are just dealing with the aftermath."

>Good, lets them get some work done, keeps them out of your hair.

> “May be a little early to ask, but do you think you could book me time off around Halloween? Just got an email from an old friend about a school reunion." You ask, fingers crossed.

> “Sure I don't see the harm. I'll get it booked off, obviously if there are dire circumstances …" she trails off.

> “Aye, I know. I'll be back at work before I can blink." He reply with a sardonic smirk.

> “Right anything else Mr Cooper?" Lucy asks.

>You reply there's nothing else and she bids you a good day, then hangs up.

>Ah Lucy, nice lass, great arse, even for an Antelope anthro.

>You go back to the oven; the steak is cooked enough for you. You pull it out, piping hot with your bare hands and start eating it, no plate, no knife, no fork. Your mum would fucking kill you.

>Speaking of which, you need to ring her.

>October rolls around pretty quickly.

>Work had you go off to do a little job around the Mediterranean which spanned about a month.

>You were finished around halfway through September. Easy peasy.

>Though you had been picking shit out of your teeth for days afterwards.

>In that time Allison has contacted you again. She asked if you were going to dress up for Halloween?

>Why the hell not, it'll be fun?

>You replied in the positive, which garnered some excitement from her. You two exchanged numbers.

> “Hello Dwayne?! Is that you?" comes a voice you didn't recognise.

> “Allison?"

> “Oh my god, Dwayne! How've you been it's been so long!" the voice replies.

>Probably Allison? Maybe? Only one way to check.

> “I'm great and how's my little geyser?" you ask in a cheeky tone.

>You hear an inhale.

> “Oh! My! God!" Yep definitely Allison.

> “I can't fuckin' believe you remember that!" she says in a whispered embarrassed tone.

> You wanked off to some of those memories.

> “How could I forget the nerdy little rabbit girl asking to be fingered behind the bike sheds?"

> You snort and laugh while you hear her groan from embarrassment.

> “You didn't tell anyone did you?" she asks

> “I've not seen anyone else since school ended, so no." you reply.

>The two of you chat briefly, mostly about the reunion, where it'll be, the dress code.

>i.e. is someone likely to come dressed as Frankenstein's slutty wife? Or Little Red Riding Hoe?

>Seems dress code is whatever, you're all adults. But then you have to ask.

>“Did Adam and Becky get invited?" you ask.

>Rebecca Fisher was the Hyena girl equivalent to Adam. A big girl who bullied people smaller than her.

>Like Allison Cranny.

>“I didn't, but I know others did and I know they're going." She replies timidly.

>You recall Allison saying she was really scared of Becky.

>Didn't help the size difference. Allison's 5'2 to Becky's 6'1.

> “Well bollocks." You kindly comment with frustration. “Alright never know, ten years is a long time, people change."

> “Yeah I suppose so."

>She doesn't sound convinced. Frankly neither are you.

>Adam and Becky had this Alpha Ego thing. Thinking because they were the biggest then they should have the most stuff, the most followers.

>Who did they think they were? Mad Max villains?

>Regardless.

> “Don't be scared of them either way, if shit happens, I'll deal with it."

> “You promise?" Allison asks hopefully.

> “Aye, I promise."

> “Think we could meet up before the reunion?" she asks.

>You ponder to yourself, should you? Yeah, why not. You're on holiday now anyway.

>You tell her the affirmative and you both set a time and place.

>You both end the phone call cordially and hang up.

>Right, you need to find a costume.

>Something tasteful. But what?

>About a week or so goes by before you drive back home.

>Six fucking hours!

>Pissing road works again. There's always something being fixed because they didn't fix it properly the last time!

>You return home. Well to your mum's house. The house you were raised in.

>Standing outside you feel a wave of nostalgia, you've not been back in, how long was it now?

>Too long.

>You had great, and terrible memories here.

>Queue the violin music!

>You were mostly raised by your mum and grandad on your dad's side. You barely remember your dad.

>He wasn't a dead beat, and he didn't leave, per say.

>He was just busy being, well …

>Dead.

>Your dad, John Cooper. K.I.A. He was a soldier, a sniper during the Falklands, he was killed when you were a kid.

>You barely remember his voice.

>Everyone says how much you look like him.

>Old photos prove that to be so.

>Everyone loved and respected John. He was a tough but fair man.

>Your grandad says you two would've gotten on like fire and dynamite.

>Old family saying which usually meant “great".

>Yeah it's weird.

>You walk up to the door and knock then wait.

>The door opens and there she is, standing a few inches shorter than you, short brown hair which is starting to grey.

>Your loving mum! Hello mum!

> “Dwayne you little bastard come 'ere and give yer mum a love!"

>Your mum wraps you in a hug, a damn tight hug. Your mum was always a tough ol' bird.

>You hug her in return, though not quite so hard. You're a tough ol' prick yourself.

> “You're running a bit late lad." Your mum says as she pulls away.

> “Pissing road works." You reply.

>She shakes her head. She knows how it is. Everyone in England knows how it is.

> “Come in son, I'll make ya a cup a'tea."

>Mum's tea. Fuck yeah!

>It's not long till you have your case in the house, and your sat down on sofa with a cup of tea and a plate of biscuits. Cookies if you're a yank.

> “Allison is pretty excited to see you Dwayne. She was always a sweet girl t' you."

>Gee wiz, you wonder why?

> “Aye? We were going to meet up later and have a chat."

> “Wonderful! Maybe you two'll hit it off again." She says with excitement.

>Now hold on there mother!

> “Eh? We were just friends mum, that's all." You try and argue.

> “Oh aye? And you must think I'm blind and daft. The looks that girl gave you."

>The what now?

> “I'd made my peace thinking I was going to have grandkids hopping around and eating their veggies."

>THE! WHAT! NOW!?

> “Mum, mum! Please me and Allison are just friends, honest!" you plead your case.

>Your mum raises a hand in surrender.

> “Alright if you say so."

>The pair of you continue to talk, going over anything and everything till the night draws in.

>Mum pulls out the meal she'd prepared for the two of you for the evening.

>Can't go wrong with chips and burgers.

>After food and more conversation your mother bids you goodnight as she heads for bed.

>You grab your luggage and go back to your old room.

>It's just like you left it.

>You unpacked your luggage.

>You don't have a costume yet. You and Allison would do that together.

>Your mum's words went through your head.

>Oh shit! Does Allison think this is a date?

>You can't date right now. Your life is … well

>Your life is your life. It's complicated.

>She deserves a nice uncomplicated guy to settle down with.

>You're just a mess. You can admit it.

>A mess filled will with rage and hunger.

>The following day comes quickly. Unlike a few months back you wake up at your usual time.

>8:24am

>You get up. You'll get a shower late but it's time for a shave

>You spend a fortune on razor blades. You idly think.

>Shave done. Nice and trim. Almost look handsome.

>Put on loose, light comfy clothes.

>Go for a morning run.

>Once you step outside the late October air greets you.

>Its bloody cold.

>You can also smell the rain in the clouds. Typical.

>You go for your jog, a comfortable pace you've developed over the last few years.

>A pace of 14 miles per hour.

>Might as well see how much of the area you remember.

>Your jog slowly turns into a literal trek down memory lane as you jog around the town.

>So many old memories. So many friends. Good times and bad times. Some scuffles and fights.

>Perhaps this reunion was really a good idea.

>Get back to your roots. See old friends and faces.

>When you return the clock read 9:49

>Not bad.

>You hear sounds from the kitchen.

>The clattering of pans and your mother humming to herself.

> “I'm back mum!" you shout

> “Is that what that sound was, I thought someone had just to rob me." She jokes.

>No one in their right mind would try and rob your mother.

>Unless they had a death wish of course.

> “Funny! I'm just gonna pop in shower." You call to her

> “ 'aight, don't take too long, breakfast is nearly ready." She says as your run upstairs.

>One shower and clothes change later you're down for breakfast sat next to your mum on the dining table with breakfast.

>Sausage, bacon, hashbrowns and a mug of tea for you. A full cooked breakfast for her.

>You dig in heartily.

>As you eat you look to your mother, she looks pensive, like she wants to say something.

>You decide to break the ice.

> “What's up mum?"

>She puts down her knife and fork and sighs.

> “Dwayne I've got something to tell you."

>Oh no. No. No! Please God don't let it be the C word. Please God plea…

> “I've been seeing someone."

>OH THANK CHRIST!

> “For FUCK sake mum!" you roar, startling her.

>You laugh.

> “Never start a sentence fucking like that ever again!"

>You lean back in your chair and laugh more in relief.

> You mum looks at your confused.

> “I thought you were about to say you were fucking dying!"

>Now your mum laughs.

> “Don't be so bloody stupid!" she shouts back all the while smiling.

> “Nothing can kill me without my permission." She says and flexes her arm muscles.

> She's not buff, but she's always had a strong body.

>No wonder someone fell for her.

>The poor guy.

> “So, you're seeing someone? Anyone I know?" you ask

> “Your remember James Arkwright?"

> James Arkwright.

> Before you left the town he was the butcher's apprentice.

> He was also a bit younger than your mum, by a fair bit. Your mum was in her mid 50s.

> You decide to approach the topic slowly and cautiously.

> “Mum you're like 10 years older than him, if not more!"

>Smooth

> “You cheeky bastard!" she retorts, none too happy.

>Quick salvage this.

> “Okay look, I'm happy for you, honest!" you put your hands up in surrender.

> “I just didn't know you'd enjoy such young men." You snort with laughter.

>Your mum crosses her arms and give you the stink eye.

> “I'll have you know we've been together since March last year, and we're happy together."

>You can't argue with that.

> “Well, I'm happy for you, both of you."

>Pause for dramatic effect.

> “Does this mean you get cheaper meat from butchers?"

>Your mum throws a napkin at you as you both laugh.

>A few hours later and it's almost time to meet with Allison.

>You've helped clean the house, had a quick drink of tea before you left, shouting bye to your mother.

>You get in your car and drive off to meet her.

>She'd chosen an old favourite meeting place.

>Linda's café.

>Good cakes.

>Linda herself was a Labrador anthro about as tall as your mum. Nice lady.

>Husband was a plumber. He was a Labrador too.

>You park up in the nearest car park. Local citizen badge in the window.

>Don't want a fine.

>Then walk the rest of the way to the café. Which thankfully wasn't far.

>Arrive at the café

>It's a little after midday

>Café isn't too busy.

>You step inside and look around, there's a few people, humans and anthros sat at tables, chatting, eating and drinking.

>Rather pleasant really.

>You walk up to the counter, order a simple tea.

>Linda recognises you instantly. She had the memory of an elephant.

>Is that speciesist? Maybe.

>You order a cup of tea and the pair of you chat briefly.

>She and her family are doing well, kids are well, eldest is thinking of marrying his girlfriend.

>Aww bless.

>You're doing well. Just having a break from work to visit old friends and family. No kids. No wife.

>Before she can ask more you hear a voice from the door

> “Oh my god Dwayne!"

>You turn and look

> …..

> Well holy fuck!

>Gone is the timid petite 5'2 nerd bunny you once knew.

>Hello mature, hourglass figured, just a little shorter than you, bombshell of a bunny.

>Again, holy shit.

>You can see it in her, she's just brimming with confidence.

>The way she holds herself, the way she walks, the clothes she's wearing.

>A light blouse with a purple jacket on top, dark blue jeans, and stylish shoes on her plantigrade feet.

> “Holy … Allison!" you smile big as the bunny rushes up and hugs you.

>Nice firm tiddies!

>You return her embrace. Then after a gentle squeeze you separate, you smile at one another.

> “Well look at you, where'd that little bookworm go?" you ask cheekily.

> “She grew up." The young rabbit replies with a large grin.

>She orders her own drink, a black coffee and you both get something to eat.

>The pair of you sit at a table in the corner, with you sitting with your back to the wall, just in case.

> “So, wow look at you." You say again looking her over.

>She blushes, that's a good and bad sign if there ever was one.

> “Well some of it was just growing older, my growth spurt really hit me hard when I turned 19 which also started to make my uh, you know what's, get bigger."

>You glance down, yep they're bigger than you remember. You don't know the cup size but, they're definitely bigger.

> “I went to college, did a course in finance, spent a few years there, went to university."

>You interrupt her while having a grin on your face.

> “How did college and Uni go for you? You have any fun?"

>You put emphasis into fun.

>She blushes. Score!

> “I ah, had a few moments in college yeah, but uh nothing to say in polite company."

>She motions to the people behind her discreetly. Fair point.

> “Promise to tell you later though." She grins. “I also started going to the gym once a week, keep myself fit."

> “It's done wonders for you." You quip. “You're surer of yourself too."

> “Thanks Dwayne. Had to stand up for myself without my knight around." She gives you a sly wink.

>You shake your head. “I was no knight lass, maybe I just liked to fight."

> She shrugged at your comment. “Maybe, but you didn't take shit from bullies, and I admired that, still do."

> “So with all that learning what do you do?"

> “I work at McDonalds." She states in a bored tone. Then suddenly laughs at your dumbstruck look. “I'm kidding, fuckin' hell! Can you imagine? No, I work the finances for a distribution company in town, pays pretty nice."

>You breathe a sigh of relief, laughing softly to yourself.

> “What about you? After secondary you just disappeared. Where'd you go?" she asks.

>You note the subtle change in tone, rejected, sad, lonely. Does she feel you abandoned her?

> “I joined the army."

>That gets her attention, her eyes opening wider.

> “Like your dad." she states.

> “Aye, I joined the army as soon as I could, I blazed through boot camp then I was shipped off to Afghanistan, deal with the Taliban." Your hands subconsciously clench. She notices.

> “How'd that go?" she asks hesitantly.

> “About as well as you'd expect." You reply. You inhale then exhale. “I'm a sergeant now."

>Her cute bunny ears perk up.

> “Hey congratulation! That's fantastic. Well sergeant Dwayne Cooper, I'm glad you're home safe and sound."

>Not exactly, but she doesn't need to know.

> “You are alright right?" she suddenly asks hesitantly, giving you a worried look.

>You are and yet you're not, not at all, but the worst didn't happen in Afghanistan.

> “Yeah I'm fine. Just the usual fare."

>You give her an encouraging smile

> “Did you get shot?" she asks before sipping her coffee.

> “Here and there, didn't leave a scar so sadly no story telling war wounds."

>She snorts, seemingly pacified with your nonchalant attitude to it.

>That's likely for the best.

> “So what else has been going on?" you start. “Is there a Mister Cranny I should meet and threaten?" you grin.

>She just laughs and waves you off with a hand.

> “No, but bloody hell not without trying. I've gone out with a few guys, mainly rabbits, delved into other species, humans included." She looks at specifically when she mentions humans.

>Try and play it off, quick!

> “Did you ever try Tim Granger?" you ask

>Tim Granger was a rabbit anthro and one of your best mates throughout school, you'd known him for over 20 years now.

> “No, he moved away to a different college, but I heard he's coming back for the reunion."

>Okay, this could work, all you had to do was hope and pray he wasn't married.

> “What about you, there a Mrs Cooper waiting for you back in London?" she asks teasingly.

>You shake your head in the negative.

> “No, not after …" you go quiet. Allison winces.

>Wasn't a particularly good memory. When she found out Allison was furious.

> “But no, I had a few flings but nothing serious."

>Allison looks thoughtful, you're sure you see a smile at the edge of her mouth.

> “Well we're still young, we could mister or misses right soon." She says with a smile.

>Real subtle like isn't she?

> “Yeah, you never know."

>The two of you finish your drinks and down your foods then you're off to the shops

>The pair of you enter the first costume shop you find. It's a little small but deals with various holiday costumes, the cashier is a lady(?) poodle morph in goth clothes. (S)He(?) looks hilarious. The fluffy poodle fur clashing with the black and depressing clothes.

>The two of you hold your laughter and look for the Halloween section.

>Once there you start looking through the men and women sections, human and anthro respectively.

>Allison has one costume in hand already then pulls out a Wolfman costume and holds it up for you.

> “Hey there big bad wolf, you want to see what treats little red riding hood has in her basket?" Allison asks in a seductive turn and shows you the other costume.

>Sexy Red Riding Hood.

>God damn she'd look good in it.

>You'd be turned on if it weren't for two thing.

>A- That was cringey as fuck

>B- Wolfman … you'll leave it at that.

>So you just laugh and shake your head.

> “I can be hairy enough Ally, no need to give me more hair." You reply

> “I think you'd pull off a beard real well." She replies in turn.

>Not what you meant.

>She tries again, even puts back Red Riding Hood.

> “I guess Halloween and monsters aren't scary anymore when you've been to war." She says.

> “You'd be surprised." Is all you reply with.

>The two of you continue for about an hour or so looking for costumes all the while just chatting, talking about anything and everything that comes to mind.

>Eventually you pick two costumes.

>She gets a scary sexy clown girl costume.

>You get “Hillbilly serial killer" a pair of cheap overalls a faceless bald mask and some scary skull mask that goes over your face and comes with a dinky toy chainsaw. It's scary you guess.

>The cashier asks if you want anything else.

>Yes are you a boy or a girl? You want to ask but bite your tongue.

>Allison says no, you quickly pay before she does and off you both go

>Despite the time you took finding costumes, it's still only early in the day.

>So you just hang around, walk around the city centre and talk away like the old friends you were.

>You find out she wants kids one day. At least three kids.

>Is it rude so say “Must be the rabbit genetics"?

>You wonder how it would go if you had kids.

>Turns out she already has everything planned for raising kids. She goes into long details how she'd start off, then how she'd balance work with taking care of her kids. How she'd fit every single nanosecond she could to be with them.

>She's sounds like Super-Mum!

>She'll be a great mother.

>You both conclude when the sun starts disappearing and the sky turns dark.

> “So what're you doing tomorrow?" you ask.

> “Work then going to gym." She replies with a huff.

> “You want to meet at the gym? I could do with a little work out." You smile

>Her face lights up with joy.

> “Yeah, absolutely! You staying with your mum while you're here?" she asks.

>You nod.

> “I'll drop you a text when I'm done with work and I'll come pick you up."

>You agree with her plan.

>She hugs you and kisses you on your cheek.

> “I've really missed you Dwayne." She has a small sad smile on her face as she looks up at you.

>It breaks your heart. You kiss her on the nose and her nose twitches.

>Too fucking adorable.

> “I missed you too."

>You both go your separate ways all the while you curse yourself for kissing her, you can't get attached.

>Get back to your car and drive home. Well to your mum's house.

>Door is locked but mum gave you a spare key.

>Open the door and find the lights are off, everything is dark.

>And yet you see just fine.

>You close and lock the door behind you quietly.

>Despite knowing better you go into combat mode.

>You listen for anything that doesn't fit the place, your eyes focus in the dark.

>You move from the hallway as quiet as a ghost and enter the living room.

>Eyes scan the room, top to bottom, left to right, every corner observed for something hidden.

>You see a piece of folded paper on the coffee table.

>Walking cautiously to it you continue to look about

>You pick it up and read.

>Oh bloody hell.

>Your mum has gone out with her new fella.

>Combat mode ceases.

>You sigh with relief and put the note down.

>You go to the light switch and turn on the big light.

>You see everything all the same.

>Your night proceeds thusly. You make dinner in the kitchen. Turn on the TV to watch something not terrible, then go for a nightly run before returning and heading to bed.

>You hear your mother's return. She's laughing. She's happy. That makes you happy. You go back to sleep.

>The following morning begins very much the same as the previous. You're up and awake early. You go for your long morning run before returning home.

>You hear nothing when you return except the soft snoring of your mother upstairs.

>You were meeting with Allison today at the gym, maybe you could find where she worked and jog over there, meet her there so she wouldn't have to come get you. That was an idea!

>You take a quick shower after that you have cereal before checking up on your mum.

>She's still snoozing. Good.

>You get dressed, putting a coat on since the October weather is cold and wet.

>You leave your mum a note on the dining tale that you're heading out for the day and that you have your phone with you.

>You decide, as weird as it is, to take a look at the old school.

>See if there's anyone you remember.

>And if that plan doesn't pan out, go do something else.

>You decide to walk rather than take your car. It's a nice enough day.

>Meaning it's dry for the time being.

>Outside once more the cold air hits you.

>It's not terrible, the coat helps alleviate it.

>Around you kids in uniforms are making their way to school, same as you did all those years ago.

>Within the hour you find yourself approaching the school, it's changed a little since you've been there.

>A few renovations and extra areas built that clashed heavily with the original brick work of the original building.

>Not surprising as parts of the school were over a thousand years old.

>Ye' ole England innit?

>You chuckle to yourself and scan the area mentally reliving old memories.

>A small part of you realises you look like a creep.

>Apparently so did some copper.

> “You alright there sir?" comes a voice to your right.

>You turn your head slightly and look at him from the corner of your eye.

>A human police officer in a high visibility jacket a couple of inches shorter than you, around 5'6.

>He's a community officer. The middle ground between a security guard and an actual cop.

>Your mouth moves before your brain think.

> “Yeah just looking."

> “At what?" he asks in a not too condescending tone.

>Now your brain catches up

> “Whoa I'm not looking at the kids mate!" you say with a heightened voice. “I'm not a creeper."

>He doesn't look too convinced.

> “I used to go to school here, me and some friends are having a reunion here in a few days."

>That gets his attention.

> “Oh aye? Who're you then?" he asks looking you over slowly.

> “Dwayne Cooper."

>He looks you in the face, wide eyed with realisation, a smile growing across his bald-headed mug.

> “Dwayne! You don't recognise me do ya?" he asks excitedly

>No? Maybe?

> “Dennis Lowery." He says pointing at himself.

>Hold the fuck up!

>You point at him with surprise.

> “You're bald!"

>He laughs.

> “Aye I am!"

>You remember Dennis Lowery. He was a skinny guy with a full head of hair, like really full.

>Like down to his arse, full. Like got in trouble a lot with the teachers because it was too long for a boy, full.

>This copper before you is looking a little chubby, and again he's as bald as an egg. You resist slapping his bald head with a saliva covered hand for good luck.

> “You look…" fat, bald, “good. You're looking a lot different."

>He chuckles and puts his hands in his trouser pockets casually.

> “That's kids for ya."

>He got married? Shitting hell you've missed a lot.

> “Anyone I know?" you dare to ask, not quite recalling if he was dating anyone.

> “You remember Teresa?" he asks

>You remember a few of them, which one? You ask this.

> “Malbec." He simply replies.

>Well stone you. You remember Teresa Malbec. She was a rat anthro, everyone made fun of her for being poor.

>Not you of course. Because you're amazing like that.

>She had this sort of not-quite-goth-thing going on.

>Good for them you suppose.

> “Good for you both." You say. “Since when?"

> “We started going out in secret in the final year. About three years after that we got married. About nine months after that we had our first kids."

>Kids. Anthro and human couplings usually do this, it defies science and no one can explain it.

>Usually when an anthro and human get together for kids, the genes stay separate, twins are formed 70-80% of the time. Both will have characteristics of either parent but it's always human and an anthro.

>Hybrids were the other 20-30% and typically rare, but not unheard of.

> “Aye, twins, boy rat, girl human." He points to his head. “That's where my hair went."

> “Stressful I take it." You grin.

> “Aye, but worth it."

>There's a comfortable silence between the two of you before you ask if he's going to the reunion.

> “Yeah, we both are, my parents are looking after the kids while we go." He explains.

> “How is Teresa by the way?" you ask.

> “A lot better than she used to be. Though not looking forward to seeing Fisher." He frowns.

>Teresa had been among the top three of Rebecca's targets to bully in school. Teresa being a rat was only round 5 feet tall on a good day, and rather scrawny and malnourished.

> “So what about yourself? Wife and kids?" Dennis asks his frown once more being replaced with a smile.

> “No kids, no wife. Just work." You reply.

>He then asks the obvious, where are you working?

> “Soldier in the army. Just got back from Afghanistan."

>His eyes open wide.

> “Bugger me. I knew you were in the cadets but didn't think you'd go full on squaddie."

>You let him get over the surprise.

> “Well um, thank you for your service, I guess right?"

>You chuckle with little humour.

> “Appreciate it."

>You're quick to change the subject.

> “You know who else is going?"

>He shakes his head.

> “Not really. Me and our lass got invited by Nat Bromley and she only mentioned Allison and Fisher and Adam Davis aaaaaand Matt Knob."

>You internally burst out laughing. You almost forgot about Matt Knob!

>Matt Knob was the tallest student in the school at 6 foot 7. Which was weird as he was crow. With bad eyesight. Even when he had his glasses on. Which he rarely did.

>Everyone placed bets on whether or not Matt was a stoner, as he always seemed stoned. But he was adamant he was just a “chill guy".

> “I fucking love Matt Knob." You suddenly state.

> “I fucking love him too." Dennis adds.

>You both share a laugh at the thought of Matt Knob.

> “What's he doing?" you ask.

> “You remember Sofia Dunn?" he asks.

>You do! Sofia Dunn was a tabby cat girl and the daughter of your French teacher, Mrs Dunn.

>She was also part of Rebecca Fisher's bullying crew. Because they were all so fucking original.

> “They're together. Not married or anything, no kids but together."

>That's unexpected. Sofia bullied Matt a fair bit. He was a gentle giant. She was a short, short-tempered bitch of a cat.

>Her mum was never best pleased.

> “You think shit'll get dragged in with Becca and Adam?" you ask and Dennis winces like he stepped on Lego.

> “I'm hoping not. I have seen Adam lately down at the pub, but I've not talk to him." Dennis replies.

>Dennis used to be bullied by Adam because of his hair. The fucking cat even cut some of it off once, “as a joke".

> “Think you can arrest him if he starts shit?" you ask.

>Dennis replies with a shake of his head. “No, I'm just a community cop, sorry."

>You nod. “Doesn't matter, I'll deal with him if I have to."

>Dennis smiled thankfully, then he had a thoughtful look.

> “You were never scared of him Dwayne, why?"

>Even when you were young you didn't have much fear in you. You thought to yourself.

>Adam was big, had teeth and claws. But you were meaner.

>Everyone who knew your dad said he never backed down from a fight. Didn't tolerate bullies.

>So neither did you. You like to think he'd be smiling down on you for what you'd done.

> “I don't scare easy, never have." Is all you reply with.

>He accepts your reasoning.

> “How long you been back in town?" he asks suddenly.

> “Just a day, met up with Allison and had a chat and a walk about."

>You pause and take a look around at the place, comparing it to your memory.

> “Things haven't really changed all that much." You comment

>He has his hands in his pocket jacket pockets and nods. “Aye, true that."

> “So now, just having a wander about, see who I can see."

>You two continue to chat aimlessly for another half an hour before his duties pull him away.

> “Right best go Dwayne." He waves at you as he walks onwards. “See you later mate!"

>You wave and shout him goodbye.

>You turn back to the school looking the building over once more before heading off on your way.

>You explore some of your old haunts for a few hours before heading back home.

>On your way back, you drop Allison a text asking her where she worked, so you'd come and meet her.

>You finally arrive home when Allison replies. You know the address, it's not terribly far away and you have a rough estimate of when to set off.

>Inside the house your mum is all smiles. You tease and make fun of her to which you both laugh.

>Seems James Arkwright is a regular Casanova as they both had a good time out.

>Good for them. It makes you happy.

>You go get a shower and a change of clothes then grab a gym bag, a loose-fitting t-shirt, shorts, trainers and a bottle of water and stuff forementioned items into said bag.

>A few short hours later before you leave for your jog, your mother informs you Grandad was coming round this evening.

>God damn.

>When was the last time you saw him in the flesh?

>Couple of years back. You've spoken to him via skype when you were in Afghanistan.

>He's proud of you. Taking on the family tradition.

>While dad fought in the Falklands. Your grandad, Sergeant Alexander Cooper, fought in WW2 and his father Alister fought in WW1.

>You wouldn't be half surprised if there was a, Sir Cooper: knight of the realm, centuries ago.

>Anyway, it'll be good to see Grandad again! You're looking forward to it.

>Your mum asks for you to bring Allison round. You mentally curse in your head but agree vocally.

>Free of the matchmaking mother you start your jog, again at 14 miles an hour, towards her place of work.

>It takes you around forty-five minutes to get there due to the twists and turns and streets you must cross. But you've done worse.

>You're not even sweating, not even tired. The cold brisk wind blows against your face.

>You arrive at her place of work. A tall multi-story building with the name “Kalen Distributors" written on the front of a sign near the entrance.

>You walk closer to the building, your eyes spot the sign for a receptionist area.

>You enter.

>The inside is as all lobbies are like.

>Receptionist's desk. Woman behind it. She's human. Glasses. Tapping away at a computer.

>You stride towards the desk and await to be acknowledged.

>You don't have to wait long.

> “'ello sir, how can we 'elp ye today?"

>The lady. “Janet" as her name badge says. Turns and fake-smiles at you.

> You explain you're here to meet with Allison Cranny from finances department, whenever she's finished.

>She looks you up and down, her smile changing ever so slightly before looking you in the eye.

> “I'll leave a message with finance to let her know you're here."

>She asks politely for you to sit down to wait. You do so.

>As you wait you ponder what it's like to be home.

>It's great seeing your mum again.

>Seeing the old house.

>All those memories of you and your siblings and your friends.

>The ever fading memories of your dad.

>Your thoughts drift to Allison and what your mum said earlier.

>Do you love Allison?

>Can you love her?

>She was a good friend in school.

>And she is undeniably beautiful, incredibly fun to be with, easy to talk to.

>Your mother liked her.

>Allison's mother liked you from what you recall.

>She was perfect wife material.

>Except you were the problem.

>Allison deserved to be with someone who wasn't complicated.

>Someone who would return home at the end of the day, preferably not in a body bag or a shoe box.

>Someone loyal and loving.

>Maybe you'd get inspiration at the reunion.

>You're pulled from your thoughts by footsteps and a familiar smell.

>Lifting your head you see Allison step around the corner, her eyes meet yours and her face lights up with glee.

> “Dwayne! You came!" she walks over to you briskly.

>You stand and laugh softly.

> “Said I would didn't I?"

>You heft the bag over your shoulder for emphasis.

> “We off to the gym?"

>She nods happily.

> “I'm so happy you're coming with me! It'll be fun to do something together."

>She gives you a particular look, and her scent changes.

>Oh yeah you know exactly what type of workout she wants to do together.

>You both exit the lobby with Allison giving Janet a wave and goodbye and leads you to her car

> “There's also something else Dwayne." She says once she's pulled out of the car park and driving to the gym.

>You say nothing and wait, but look at her, signalling you were listening.

> “There's been some guys giving me shit at the gym lately." She begins.

>You raise your brow. Your hands clench.

> “I don't want ye' to do anythin' rash!" she quickly explains.

>Fighting was typically your go to problem solver.

> “Just be around me, hopefully they'll think you're my boyfriend and back off."

> “Failing that I've got some friends who'll help me remove bodies." You reply with a smirk.

>Allison laughs, slapping your chest with the back of her hand/paw(?)

>You were only partially joking.

> “Oh aye, very funny Mr Solider."

>Again, only partially joking.

> “Won't the gym owners or instructors step in, to sort 'em out?" you ask.

>Allison rolls her eyes and groans aloud.

> “I wish, they're friends with one of the instructors so he won't do shit. The others just can't be bothered, there's only one woman instructor and she's on pregnancy leave."

>Allison threw her arms up in exasperation.

> “If things get out of hand, I'll be calm and deal with the situation accordingly. It's what I've been trained for." You reply in honesty.

>She glances at you fondly for a second before focusing on the road.

> “You have changed. I remember when your take on diplomacy was to kick the shit out of someone 'til they made peace." She chuckles

>You were always a fighter.

> “I never fought unless I thought I had to." You shoot back with a smirk.

> “Then you must a thought you had to a lot." She counters.

>Okay fair point.

>The rest of the drive there you talk about your respective days.

>Hers had been, run-of-the-mill, by the books and boring.

>You told her about your meet up with Dennis Lowery and you two chatting. You asked if she knew about Matt Knob and Sofia Dunn.

>She did she says, she was happy for them.

>Soon enough you arrive at the gym. It's a large two-story building, must be one hell of a gym.

> “The bottom floor has swimming pool, the second floor is the gym." Allison explains, likely having seen your reaction.

>Makes sense.

>She parks up, you both get out and make your way to the entrance.

>Opening the door for you, take note of the entrance.

>Silver painted walls, with a golden rail, posters about fitness along the walls.

>Ahead are signs for the swimming pool areas and the gym upstairs, there's a lift, and a set of stairs next to it. Directions for toilets in the far-left corner.

>As you look around Allison gently guides you to the lady at the desk.

>An anthro lady, a jackal to be specific or something similar.

>White sleeveless t-shirt shows off her strong arms.

>Hot damn!

> “Allison, how are you dear?"

>Lady has an accent. Not English, Egyptian maybe?

>You were in Egypt last year. It was very nice, too much sand though.

> “Hey Janet, just finished work, same stuff different day you know how it is." Allison replies

>Allison turns to you and smiles

> “This is an old friend of mine, he's visiting a while."

>Look at Janet and give a friendly smile and a nod.

> “Ya'right?" you greet.

> “Ya'right." Janet replies

>Allison scans what can only be a membership card and then tries to purchase a one-day use for you.

>Jump in and pay for it yourself.

>Allison tries to complain but you stop her.

>You're a grown arse man damn it. You have money.

>Janet finds you both amusing and lets you go once you've paid.

>You both ascend to the next floor using the stairs.

>There you see the changing rooms.

>Allison says she'll meet you outside them.

>You agree and separate to get changed.

>Enter the changing rooms. You can smell the stench of sweat, terrible deodorant and guys who really need to get a room. And not this room.

>Ignore the smell and get changed, you add a little or your own terrible deodorant to your pits.

>Put your stuff in a locker, then exit changing room.

>Allison is not outside waiting for you.

>Maybe having a shower beforehand probably?

>You don't wait much longer before Allison appears.

>And hot damn!

>Purple shorts that stop just above her knees and a loose fitting grey sleeveless t-shirt.

>The entire ensemble teases the viewer of her fit frame and handful sized breasts.

>A bombshell as they'd say in America.

>Allison takes notice of yours expression.

> “You got a problem there lad?" she grins at you with her hands on her hips.

>God damn this bunny!

>Her grins fades when she looks towards the gym itself.

> “Oh great, they're here." She mutters but you hear her.

>You turn around and spot several people working out on various equipment, young and old, anthro and human.

>Your instincts land on two specific individuals.

>Two guys, anthros. A rat and a horse. Rat is a little shorter than you, horse is a little taller.

>Both have a decent physique, bigger than yours, but you're not built for size.

> “The rat and the horse?" you ask.

> “Aye, thems the two." She replies with a grimace. “Stick by me?"

> “Already promised, wasn't thinking of doing anything but anyways. Lets go."

>You nonchalantly make you way over to the gym. Firstly, the treadmills.

>There's a couple of them. Allison takes the far end one with you beside her.

>The radio around you starts playing some AC/DC.

>Good shit!

>The two of you start your respective runs in peace.

>The two guys seem to be keeping their distance.

>For now at least.

>A minute or so later you subtly turn your attention to Allison.

>She's keeping a good pace. Her breath is even. There's a determined look on her face as she stares ahead.

>Seeing her panting in time to her strides, her leg muscles flexing to keep up her pace, the shapely contours of her arse in those shorts, the way her breasts bounce just a little in her sports bra.

>It makes your heart flutter, as well as do others things elsewhere.

>God fucking damn it Dwayne, head out of the gutter! You're trying to avoid falling for her.

> “You checkin' me out Dwayne?" You hear her say.

>Oh crap, you've been staring at her legs, quick look at her face!

>You look up. She's looking at you from the corner of her eye and giving you a sly smirk.

>Shit.

>You say nothing and look straight ahead, though you can't help the grin that spreads across your face.

>After several more minutes the pair of you leave the treadmills in search for something else.

> “This is your day lass, what's next?" you ask.

>Allison looks at you then points to a set of dumbbells and various other weights.

> “I work me arms on them, try and keep me upper body strength goin'." She replies.

>You chuckle as you think of an incredibly ripped Allison.

> “You tryin' out for Ms Universe eh?" You jest.

> “Fuck off dick head." She replies with a laugh.

>At the dumbbells she picks up a sensibly sized and weighted dumbbell.

> “I'm just making sure me arms don't wither to skin and bones while I'm typing at my computer." Allison explains as she starts curling.

>You pick up another and join her.

> “So Dwayne, you get much of a work out in the army?" she asks suddenly, a little hint of humour in her voice.

> “Aye, heftin' around a load of kit from one place to another and dodging bullets really makes you lose the pounds. I'd suggest it to anyone whose not afraid of getting shot." You reply dryly with a lopsided grin.

>Dark humour was common in your old squad.

>You hear the muffled sound of footsteps approach. The smell of sweat and musk.

> A much larger dumbbell appears in your peripheral vision.

>The horse anthro from earlier gets way too close for comfort.

> “How you doin'?" he asks with a large grin.

> “Fine." You reply.

>You notice the rat getting up close to Allison and she's not happy about in the slightest.

>You do the you thing and step in.

> “You mind mate? She likes her personal space." You say staring towards the rat.

> “Oh and you'd know would ye?" he asks with a cocky grin.

>What a fucking idiot.

>You decide to get to the point.

> “Aye I would, you're getting on her nerves. Be a good lad, take your mate, and leave her alone."

>Nice and diplomatic.

>Your instructor would've been proud … ish.

> “Sorry to say but we saw her first." The rat replies with a grin.

>Allison steps away from him.

>You want to break his freakin' neck.

> “Saw her first? What are ye' twelve?" you shoot back.

> “I'm only asking politely once more. Fuck off!"

>Diplomacy at its best.

> “You want to fuckin' start mate?" the rat snarled.

>Allison looked uncomfortable as she looked between the two of you.

> “I'd fuckin' 'ave you mate."

>Yeah you were never good at keeping your cool for long.

>The rat drops his dumbbell narrowly missing his foot and glares at you.

>You stand up, proving your height superiority.

>The horse stand up proving his supremacy in height.

> “How about you fuck off?" the horse says with a glare aimed right at you.

>Calm down Dwayne, you're going to end up killing them both by accident.

> “How about you all calm the fuck down." Allison demands glaring at the three of you.

> “All this fuckin' testosterone." She glares at the three of you.

> “What happened to calm and collected?" she bites at you while crossing her arms.

>You suppress the tempting urge to spill their guts and eat them.

>Wouldn't want to cause a scene of course.

>An idea strikes you.

> “Alright, how about this?" you begin gaining the others attention. You voice still heated.

> “Seeing as how you, fine gentlemen seem to be honourable, sporting types." There couldn't be anymore sarcasm dripping from your words if you tried.

> “How about a wager?" This gets their attention, and you notice Allison doesn't thrilled.

>You point to the large weights not far from your position.

> “Whoever can lift the heaviest weights on the barbell and rep them three times, over their head, can take the lovely bunny here home."

>The two guys grin and Allison storms around to you.

> “I'm not a fuckin' prize to be won!" she argues.

> “True, but this'll be the only way to sort this out, right?" You reply. “Trust me."

>You gave her a look, she's not pleased, but she seems to be thinking it over.

> “Whoever loses, never talks to her again, fair?" you add looking to the two anthros.

>They look between one another, then to you, looking you up and down.

>Likely comparing the muscle build between then three of you, they're definitely on the larger size.

>To their credit, these guys are in great shape.

>Strong bulky muscles. Chiselled abs on the rat, a little pudge on the horse, but no one would call him fat.

>Probably took years of working out, very balanced diets.

>Just a pity all that work is wasted on two shit personalities.

>You on the other hand. You're not fat. You're in the best shape of your life.

>Toned athletic build, perfect for strength, speed and endurance. You served the Regiment well.

>The horse barks a laugh and nods heartily.

> “Yeah sure, it's a deal." He says.

> “You two'll have to pick between yourselves." You mention, then glance at the rat.

> “As I'm such a generous bloke, I'll even let you load up the weights, how's that?"

>The horse seems excited, he's all for it.

>The rat however doesn't seem so sure. You can smell his nervousness. He knows somethings up.

>Guess you were wrong before. The rat is the smarter one.

> “Alright, you're on." The horse hastily agrees.

>The two male anthros walk to the large weights.

>Allison waits by you.

> “This is fucking ridiculous." She whispered angrily.

> “Don't worry about it, I have this." You reply calmly.

>You even give her a reassuring grin.

>The pair of you walk over.

>In the few seconds you spoke the two anthro men are loading a bar with weights.

>Big weights.

>Something their muscles are used to.

>It looks very impressive.

>You sure do hope you can lift it!

>Sarcasm levels set to max.

> “Alright, here is 250 pounds. My mate here will go first, then me, then you skinny." The horse smirks.

>The rat huffs and moved behind the weighted bar.

>He dries his hands then grips the bar.

>After a few seconds he lifts it off its stand.

>He steps forward then lifts the bar up then back down. One rep.

>Up and back down. Second rep

>His arms shake a little.

>Up and back down. Third

>The rat steps back placing the bar on the stand.

>His arms come down to his sides heavily. The boys may be bringing out the big guns first?

>However, the rat's form was good, his stance was correct, and he lifted it like a pro.

>The horse goes next.

>Allison grabs your attention.

> “Dwayne this is daft, you can't lift that. That's 250 pounds! … You're gonna break your fuckin' neck."

> “Don't worry." Is all you respond with.

>The pair of you look back to see the horse is done.

> “You're turn." He says cockily to you.

>You dry your hands and take position.

>You grip the 250 pound steel bar.

>Allison reeks of nervousness.

>Bless her kind soul.

>You lift the bar. Your arms don't even tremble.

>You step forward and do three slow reps above your head.

>You step back and place the bar back in place.

>No problemo! As they say in … Terminator 2.

>You turn to the guys.

> “Alright, that was easy, next weights?"

>You say trying to sound as nonchalant and bored as you can.

>The horse moves you out of the way and the pair remove smaller weights and add larger ones.

> “Alright 300 pounds!" the rat says with a snarl in his voice.

>The rat goes first again.

>He repeats the same process.

>You notice he's tenser. His arms shake a little more on the last rep than they did before.

>But he does it without much fuss.

>Horse's turn.

>Allison gets your attention again. She looks at you wide eyed and shakes her head.

>You just chuckle and wink at her before waving her off.

>You look back and its your turn again.

>Same as before.

>Get into position. Lift the bar. Step forward. Three reps. Back then down.

>No problemo 2: Judgement Day.

> “Guys, can I suggest you bump it up a little more please? How about a nice round 400?"

>The pair look to one another unsure.

> “I'll sweeten the deal," you announce getting their attention.

> “450 pounds. I'll go first. If I fail, fair and square. You get the girl, you don't even have to try."

>Allison loses her cool.

> “I'm not agreeing to this!" she stomps forward.

>She's got a backbone now, you're glad for that.

>You turn to her with a reassuring smile.

> “Allison please, listen to me." You say in a calm reserved voice.

>You lead Allison away and talk to her quietly.

> “Don't worry, it'll be fine. I promised to look out for you right? I'm keeping my promise."

> “In what way? You can't lift that fuckin' much weight!" she whispers back furiously.

> “Trust me, go with my plan. I promise it'll go okay." You reply.

>She looks over her shoulder to the two anthros who're watching and waiting.

> “You better keep this promise Dwayne or I'll never speak to you again." She warns, dead serious.

> “Promise," you smile, “can't let anything happen to me little geyser."

>You slap her arm in good nature and she curses at you loudly.

>She's funny when she's mad.

>You nod to the two males and they get about setting up the weights.

>Four hundred. And fifty pounds. Of weight.

>Once finished you step up to the stand. The 450-pound bar in front of you.

>You reach up and grab it.

> “No trying to tickle me or anything lads." He say and look at them with a smirk.

>If your boss caught you doing this he'd have your arse kicked.

>But what he doesn't know doesn't hurt you.

>You grip the bar tightly then lift.

>Your muscles tense a little as the weight becomes pronounced in your grasp.

>You step forward, arms holding strong.

>You grunt and let out a low groan as you push the bar up then bring it back down.

>You keep your breathing slow and measured.

>The bar goes up and down once more.

>You tilt your head and look to the anthro guys.

>To say they're shocked in an understatement.

>You look ahead once more.

>Keep your breathing even.

>The bar comes up and down once more, you step back and lower the bar.

>Not a tremble in the arm nor a shaking of the breath.

>Not even a sweat.

> “Your turn lads." You say with the largest shit-eating grin you can muster.

>You step aside and wait.

>This will either end in their surrender.

>Hurting themselves trying to lift the weight.

>Or confrontation.

>You are prepared for all three.

>The horse steps forward. And he isn't happy.

> “Fuck this bollocks, bets off!" he yells and steps closer to you.

>Everyone else in the gym looks over.

>You're calm and collected.

> “Well then bright eyes. What're you going to do about it?" You say with your grin still firmly in place.

> “Because she's not going with you, and you and your friend there, are going to leave her alone." You add with a cold serious tone.

>You stare the horse down, you don't tremble, you don't shake. You exude sheer professional confidence.

>If you really wanted it, the horse and his friend would be unconscious on the ground, if they were lucky.

>You had an idea.

>Maybe if you simply give him a nice smile he'll go away.

>You do so, showing him your pearly whites and giving him a special look in the eye.

>It has the intended effect.

>He steps back, confused, unsure, scared. You can smell the fear start to pour from him.

>It's an addictive smell. It makes you hungry.

>The horse in front of you looks less of a man.

>And more like prey.

> “Dwayne?"

>Allison's voice snaps you out of your trance.

>You look at her, she didn't see the smile you gave nor the special look you gave the horse.

>Good.

> “Maybe we should just go." She says with a defeated sigh.

>You look back to the horse and the rat.

>He must've seen too.

> “I don't want to hear about you two again, understand?" you say calmly and stare at them.

>They nod their heads in confirmation.

>You and Allison go get changed then leave.

>She and Janet have a quickly heartfelt heart to heart before she steps out with you close behind.

>You hear a growl coming from behind.

>Turning you see Janet leaving her place and making her way up the stairs.

>Someone's fucked.

>You leave the building and quickly follow the peeved bunny.

> “Allison wait for me, hold on!" You call after her.

>Allison curses out loud and kicks the wheel of her car.

>Which draws another curse from her.

> “This was a terrible idea! UGH! Stupid, stupid rabbit!" she curses herself and slaps her forehead several times.

> “Alli! Alli! Pack it in." you say as you grab her hand to stop her.

>Allison looks up to you with tears in her eyes.

>Heart = broken. Plus Awww!

>You gently stroke her hair and put on an encouraging smile.

> “I just want them to leave me alone, that's all." Her voice cracks as tears run down her face.

>A primal instinct wells up in you.

>Dark thoughts well up in your soul. Thoughts and feelings that aren't alien to you. But would be grotesque to others.

>Others like poor Allison here.

>So you quickly push them down.

>You're just good old Dwayne right now.

>Though you are tempted to act on said feelings.

>You pull Alli into a hug, pressing her head against your chest.

> “It's alright lass, let it all out." You speak softly into her ear.

>She cries against your chest.

> “I just wanted 'em to leave me alone." She sobs into your chest.

>Your heart breaks.

>You were never good at keeping your temper for long, the one thing your C.O. complained about.

>You'd gotten better! At least you'd not hurt them.

>But right now, you really want to hurt them.

> “Come on let's go elsewhere, I'll drive." You say and usher her into her car.

>As you walk around to the driver's side of the car you hear a commotion coming from the gym.

>Looking up, you see Janet the Jackal lady pushing the horse and rat out of the building their gym bags around their shoulders, yelling less than lady-like words at them.

>The lady is pissed and you're glad you're not a part of it.

>Seeing her standing you realise she has some height on her too, about as tall as the horse if not a smidge taller.

>You pause for a moment watching and listening as Janet curses them out and points away from the gym, she put her thumb to the side of her neck and drags it across to the other side all the while having a large snarl on her face.

>You rub your neck self-consciously.

>With a shake of your head you walk on to the driver's side and get in.

> “She's really letting them have it." You say to sad bun-bun.

>Allison looks up and sees what's going on.

> “Yeah I could hear her." She chuckles dryly.

> “Aye, suppose you would." You smile at her. Then reach out and pat her shoulder.

> “Come on then, let's be off." You say before Allison passes you her keys.

>You start up the car and drive off.