{"sf1_id":257990,"sf2_id":"B1QVNb6e","title":"Aimless Fate: Chapter 2","author":"FeralFENRIR","words":6061,"posted_at":"2011-06-12T05:42:00.000Z","tags":["Blood","Canine","Death","Drama","Friendship","German Shepherd","Husky","Mutt","Red Wolf","Sad","Story Series","Suspense"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/257990-aimless-fate-chapter-2","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/B1QVNb6e","image_url":"https://cdn.sofurryfiles.com/submissions/thumbnails/99/8f/998f6e9f-00f4-4d18-b1a0-54d0cd8f1aca","description":"#2 of Aimless Fate","content":"Okay, so here is Chapter 2. \u0026nbsp;Sorry, won't be making my one week deadline, better up it to 2 weeks. \u0026nbsp;Between all the other things I do, it's hard to find time to write. \u0026nbsp;I feel this chapter was a little rushed, but I put it up anyways. \u0026nbsp;Hopefully it accomplishes what I want it to. \u0026nbsp;Anyways, \u0026nbsp;as usual, feel free to comment, let me know what you liked and/or didn't like. \u0026nbsp;Now it's time to relax, and work on Chapter 3. \u0026nbsp;Also, stay posted for edits of both this chapter and the first one. :) Until next time guys! :)\n\n-Feral\n\n**Aimless Fate: Chapter 2**\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The miles flew by, as Stray held the speedometer pinned at over 100 M.P.H.\u0026nbsp; Yeah, it was speeding, but the faster Stray left his home, the better.\u0026nbsp; So what if a cop pulled him over?\u0026nbsp; 'Wouldn't be the worst thing to happen tonight', the canine thought grimly.\u0026nbsp; A stab of pain sliced through his left shoulder.\u0026nbsp; Stray gritted his teeth, gripping the wheel harder. The blood had dried, leaving his fur sticky and matted.\u0026nbsp; It was going to be fun to clean it, he thought, scoffing.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;A sign flashed by the side of the road.\u0026nbsp; It read: Clearwater City 10 miles.\u0026nbsp; The drive to Clearwater usually takes about two hours.\u0026nbsp; Stray made it in a little over an hour.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; When he left Mike's house earlier, Stray had no idea of where he was going.\u0026nbsp; After, hitting the Interstate, he decided he needed to tell Michelle the events of the night. \u0026nbsp;His phone had been lost at some point during the night, so he couldn't call her. \u0026nbsp;He could go to Underworld, find her, and hopefully stay with her, at least for a little while.\u0026nbsp; Another jolt of pain ran through his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; 'Damn! Need to do something about that.' He thought.\u0026nbsp; Concentrating on the road ahead of him, he ignored the pain.\u0026nbsp; To keep his mind off the hurt, both physical and mental, Stray thought of Michelle.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The last time he had seen her was probably the last time he was at Underworld.\u0026nbsp; Times had been more fun then.\u0026nbsp; No responsibility, few problems, and plenty of entertainment.\u0026nbsp; Stray chuckled, remembering the crush he used to have on Michelle.\u0026nbsp; The two were like brother and sister, both wanting it to stay that way.\u0026nbsp; Stray had imagined though.\u0026nbsp; He had many thoughts of what they could have done together.\u0026nbsp; Her slim figure, that bushy tail, the way she moved . . . The canine blushed, slightly aroused.\u0026nbsp; The best part of her was her eyes, those gorgeous blue eyes.\u0026nbsp; Shaking his head, Stray restrained his imagination.\u0026nbsp; Michelle was beautiful, no doubt, but they were not meant for each other.\u0026nbsp; It just wasn't supposed to be.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The lights of the city were now on the horizon.\u0026nbsp; Stray reluctantly let off the gas, knowing it was stupid to speed within city limits.\u0026nbsp; Entering the city, it took another half hour to get to Underworld.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Finally, Stray made it to the nightclub.\u0026nbsp; The clock in the car's stereo read 3:11 a.m.\u0026nbsp; A yawn escaped the exhausted canine.\u0026nbsp; He hadn't realized how tired he actually was.\u0026nbsp; Being drugged and having your friend and his family murdered can do that to you.\u0026nbsp; Parking the car, Stray looked at the large pyramid-like building.\u0026nbsp; Bright purple lights illuminated the outside of the building.\u0026nbsp; Beams of matching light cut through the night, flashing in random patterns across the sky.\u0026nbsp; It was huge.\u0026nbsp; Stray groaned.\u0026nbsp; How the hell was he going to find Michelle once he got in?\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Opening the car door and stepping out, a familiar sensation blossomed in his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; 'First, let's cover this wound.' The canine thought, digging through Mike's car for something to cover it with.\u0026nbsp; Looking in the back seat, Stray found a plain grey hoody.\u0026nbsp; He carefully slipped it over his head, moving his left arm as little as he could.\u0026nbsp; It was a little tight, but Stray wasn't trying to look good, just hide the fact he had been shot.\u0026nbsp; Taking a deep breath, he walked toward the club's entrance.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; A large Doberman, wearing black jeans and a matching shirt with \"SECURITY\" written in bright silver letters stood by the door.\u0026nbsp; Approaching him, he stopped Stray.\u0026nbsp; \"Sorry, we're about to close for the night. Come back tomorrow.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Look, I don't want in.\" Stray said wearily, \"I just need to talk to a friend.\u0026nbsp; She's a \u0026nbsp;husky and a bartender here.\u0026nbsp; Her name is Michelle.\u0026nbsp; It's an emergency.\"\u0026nbsp; The bouncer just looked at the small canine standing in front of him.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Sorry, can't do that.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray took a step towards the bouncer, sticking his chin up at the dog, locking eyes with him.\u0026nbsp; \"Look, there's been a death in the family.\" He growled, \"I need to talk to her about it.\"\u0026nbsp; The bouncer pulled his lips away from his teeth, and Stray feared he was mere seconds away from having his ass handed to him.\u0026nbsp; Stepping back, the Doberman placed a finger to his earpiece.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"One moment,\" The Doberman pressed a button on his headset, turning his head from Stray.\u0026nbsp; He talked in a low voice, too low for Stray to hear.\u0026nbsp; After, a brief conversation, he turned back.\u0026nbsp; \"We've notified Ms. Michelle.\u0026nbsp; She's coming out here to meet you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Thanks.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The bouncer grunted.\u0026nbsp; Stray stood, anxiously waiting.\u0026nbsp; What was he going to say?\u0026nbsp; With a long sigh, he closed his eyes, rubbing his forehead.\u0026nbsp; His head hurt from all the emotions he was going through: pain, sorrow, guilt, anger- when would it end?\u0026nbsp; Now, he had to tell his other best friend, his \"sister\", that Mike was dead.\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt wasn't long before the husky rushed out of the club's front doors.\u0026nbsp; She saw Stray standing nearby.\u0026nbsp; Running to him, she threw her arms around the canine, hugging him tightly.\u0026nbsp; \"Stray!\" she exclaimed.\u0026nbsp; Stray yelped from Michelle's hug.\u0026nbsp; Quickly letting go, she looked him over.\u0026nbsp; \"You're hurt!\" she cried, \"What happened?\u0026nbsp; They said it was an emergency.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray softly put his hand over his wound.\u0026nbsp; He slowly looked at the husky.\u0026nbsp; Her blue eyes held him in their gaze, silently asking questions the hurting canine did not want to answer.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Mike\", he said, closing his eyes.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Oh God!\" the husky said, placing her hand over her mouth.\u0026nbsp; Taking a few breaths to steady herself, she asked, \"What happened?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Come with me.\"\u0026nbsp; The pair headed towards the Corvette.\u0026nbsp; Leaning against the car, Stray took some deep breaths.\u0026nbsp; Turning towards Michelle, he blurted, \"Mike's dead.\"\u0026nbsp; The husky squeaked and tears formed in her eyes.\u0026nbsp; Stray closed his eyes, struggling not to cry, \"And it's my fault.\" \u0026nbsp;A knot formed in his throat, and he found it hard to swallow.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I'm sure it's not.\"\u0026nbsp; She said, after a few minutes. Walking over to the agonized canine, she pulled him into her arms.\u0026nbsp; \"What happened?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray gasped, trying to say the words.\u0026nbsp; After several failed attempts, he finally managed, \"I'll tell you later.\"\u0026nbsp; Drawing a ragged breath, he continued, \"I hate to ask, but, I need a place to stay.\"\u0026nbsp; The canine looked at her, the pain and sorrow clouding his green eyes.\u0026nbsp; When Michelle met his gaze, she saw he was hurting, deep inside.\u0026nbsp; She had never seen her friend in this much pain.\u0026nbsp; Stray had always hid his pain from others.\u0026nbsp; He always tried to ignore it, act as if he were fine, even if he wasn't.\u0026nbsp; Not tonight. \u0026nbsp;Anyone could tell that the poor mutt was broken inside.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Of course you can stay with me,\" she said into Stray's ear, \"I just have to let my boyfriend now you're coming.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray's ears pricked up at the word \"boyfriend\".\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Boyfriend?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes, I'm living with him now.\u0026nbsp; He won't mind.\"\u0026nbsp; Pulling a phone from her pocket and stepping back, she pressed a button and held it to her ear.\u0026nbsp; Stray looked at the night sky.\u0026nbsp; It was clear, not a single cloud to block the infinite stars in the sky.\u0026nbsp; The moon was almost full.\u0026nbsp; 'So beautiful' He thought, 'Such a beautiful night for such a horrible day.'\u0026nbsp; A tear came to his eye as he wondered what the view of the night was for Mike.\u0026nbsp; 'At least you're in a better place, not here, wracked with pain.'\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Michelle put her phone back in her pocket.\u0026nbsp; \"Come on, you can follow me to our house.\u0026nbsp; Let me go get my car.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray nodded, as the husky walked across the parking lot.\u0026nbsp; Minutes after she had disappeared, a blue Eclipse sped towards him.\u0026nbsp; Michelle honked.\u0026nbsp; Getting into the Corvette, Stray slipped behind her and followed her.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The drive out to her boyfriend's house led them outside the city.\u0026nbsp; The house was nestled in a patch of woods on the outskirts of the city.\u0026nbsp; It was built on a hilltop, overlooking the area.\u0026nbsp; The cars pulled up the gravel driveway, coming to a stop at a garage on the side of the house.\u0026nbsp; As the cars' lights cut off, Stray stepped out onto the gravel.\u0026nbsp; Looking back at the driveway, he could see the lights of the city miles away, over the tree line.\u0026nbsp; The canine turned around, as he heard the sound of the garage doors opening.\u0026nbsp; He looked over the house.\u0026nbsp; It was a big, wood house.\u0026nbsp; Stray guessed that Michelle's boyfriend wanted to be away from the city, away from everyone else.\u0026nbsp; Large windows were on the front side of the house, leading out to a deck on the second floor.\u0026nbsp; It seemed like a nice place to hide from everything.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Michelle called out to Stray, gesturing for him to follow her in.\u0026nbsp; Stepping into the garage, he noticed a black Camaro beside Michelle's Eclipse.\u0026nbsp; The car shined under the fluorescent lights, the silver racing stripes almost shimmering.\u0026nbsp; Stray went through the door in the garage, and climbed the stairs leading to the house.\u0026nbsp; At the top was some sort of small foyer.\u0026nbsp; His friend led him through a door, connecting to an open kitchen.\u0026nbsp; The canine couldn't help but look around.\u0026nbsp; All the appliances were stainless steel, shining in the light coming from the lamp hanging overhead.\u0026nbsp; The tabletops were all polished stone.\u0026nbsp; There was a countertop bar on one end of the open room.\u0026nbsp; Past the bar, Stray saw the living room.\u0026nbsp; It had leather couches, a low table in the center, and a huge flat-screen T.V. on one end and a fireplace on the other.\u0026nbsp; Looking up, he noticed the ceiling was high, two-stories up.\u0026nbsp; It made the house feel huge.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; A short German shepherd leaned against the island in the center of the kitchen.\u0026nbsp; Three full glasses, of rum, judging by the open rum bottle beside them, were on the tabletop.\u0026nbsp; \"Hope you like rum.\" The shepherd said, offering Stray a glass, \"It's all I have at the moment.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray guessed this was Michelle's boyfriend and owner of the house.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"It's fine.\"\u0026nbsp; He said, taking the offered drink.\u0026nbsp; Without hesitation, he downed the entire glass.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You better take the bottle,\" said the shepherd, handing it to him, \"You look like you need it.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray took the bottle and decided that was the best gesture he had received all day.\u0026nbsp; He put the bottle to his lips and took a lengthy swig.\u0026nbsp; At this moment, it was the best drink he had ever had.\u0026nbsp; After pulling his lips from the bottle, Stray put the glass down and looked at the shepherd.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Jacob, this is Stray, my old friend.\u0026nbsp; Stray, this is Jacob, my boyfriend.\"\u0026nbsp; Michelle gestured, introducing the two.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I wish we had met under better circumstances.\" Jacob rubbed the back of his head, nervously.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Screw it; it's nice to meet you, anyways.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray took another hit from the bottle.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Michelle moved over beside Jacob, kissing him lightly and grabbing a glass.\u0026nbsp; \"Now, can you tell us what happened?\u0026nbsp; Come in the living room.\u0026nbsp; Make yourself at home.\"\u0026nbsp; She turned and made her way to a leather couch in the adjacent space.\u0026nbsp; Jacob followed her, sipping from his own glass, and sat beside her.\u0026nbsp; The shepherd put his arm around her and their tails curled together.\u0026nbsp; Taking a deep breath, the canine walked to the couch opposite from where the couple was sitting.\u0026nbsp; He sat down, holding the rum bottle between his legs.\u0026nbsp; For a moment, all he could focus on was his tail moving slowly from side to side.\u0026nbsp; His vision blurred.\u0026nbsp; Stray couldn't decide if it was from his exhaustion, or if the alcohol was kicking in.\u0026nbsp; It didn't matter.\u0026nbsp; 'How do I do this?' He wondered, still watching his tail.\u0026nbsp; Still looking at the floor, he began.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Mike's dead.\"\u0026nbsp; He stated bluntly.\u0026nbsp; His eyes stayed focused on his tail.\u0026nbsp; His ears perked up at Michelle's whimper.\u0026nbsp; Stray's tail swished, just over the hardwood floor.\u0026nbsp; The only sound in the room was Michelle's crying.\u0026nbsp; Stray mindlessly counted the strokes of his tail.\u0026nbsp; 12 strokes later, Michelle attempted to speak.\u0026nbsp; The husky opened her mouth, and then froze.\u0026nbsp; Her jaw worked, forming a word, but no sound came out.\u0026nbsp; Closing both her mouth and eyes, she tried again.\u0026nbsp; This time she forced the word out.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"How?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Taking another pull from his bottle, the mutt continued.\u0026nbsp; \"Some bastards murdered him.\"\u0026nbsp; He stated flatly, never looking away from his tail.\u0026nbsp; Jacob's eyes widened and his grip tightened on the husky.\u0026nbsp; A squeak escaped from her, before she buried her head in her boyfriend's chest, soaking his fur with her tears.\u0026nbsp; Stray desperately tried to drain the rum bottle.\u0026nbsp; Any escape from this pain was welcome, be it slumber, alcohol, or even- death.\u0026nbsp; His tear ducts were basically burned out by now, but hearing Michelle sob, that was unbearable.\u0026nbsp; He looked across the coffee table to the couple sitting opposite him.\u0026nbsp; Jacob was holding Michelle tight, eyes closed, nose pressed to her head fur.\u0026nbsp; Her face was turned away, her body convulsing with her sobbing.\u0026nbsp; Their tails remained curled together.\u0026nbsp; Sighing, Stray told them the story of the night: how he had spent the day with Mike, his abduction, the murder, and his flight to Clearwater.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; They listened, Jacob holding his girlfriend closely, as she turned her face sideways to listen, her fur slick with tears.\u0026nbsp; When he had finished, he downed what was left in the bottle, and stared at the ceiling.\u0026nbsp; Alcohol and exhaustion seized his body.\u0026nbsp; His head swam and his vision was fuzzy.\u0026nbsp; His chest was warm, however, the alcohol masking the hurt that lied beneath.\u0026nbsp; Darkness crept around the edges of his sight, letting him know his eyelids were closing.\u0026nbsp; 'Please- please, take the pain away.'\u0026nbsp; The suffering canine begged, 'I don't care, just make it stop.'\u0026nbsp; The darkness called to him, beckoning with promises of peace.\u0026nbsp; It was there, he just had to go to it-\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Stray!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Something was shaking his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; A tingle went through his left shoulder.\u0026nbsp; The canine pushed against the encroaching darkness.\u0026nbsp; He could hear his name.\u0026nbsp; His senses struggled to work.\u0026nbsp; Another tingle traversed his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; The darkness retreated.\u0026nbsp; Then it hit him. The sensation in his shoulder wasn't a tingle, it was burning pain. \u0026nbsp;The canine cried out, jumping from the pain.\u0026nbsp; The world shifted under his feet, and instead of jumping up, Stray jumped sideways and landed hard on his other shoulder.\u0026nbsp; The pain pulsed in his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; He lay there, groaning and clutching his injured shoulder.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"He's hurt!\" Michelle cried, looking at Jacob.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yeah, that shoulder is sensitive.\u0026nbsp; We need to get that hoody off.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Stray, can you take that jacket off?\u0026nbsp; Jacob needs to look at you.\" The dazed mutt looked at her, clearly confused.\u0026nbsp; \"He's a doctor.\" She explained, \"Let him look at you.\"\u0026nbsp; Not really caring, Stray removed his hoody.\u0026nbsp; Pain flashed through his entire upper left arm.\u0026nbsp; He threw the jacket away, panting.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Good.\" Jacob kneeled on the couch, examining the mutt's shoulder.\u0026nbsp; He noticed immediately the hole in Stray's shirt.\u0026nbsp; \"Gunshot wound.\" He noted.\u0026nbsp; \"Dear, could you get the first aid kit and some alcohol?\"\u0026nbsp; Michelle nodded, walking off to get the kit.\u0026nbsp; Jacob turned back to Stray.\u0026nbsp; \"Good thing you're sort of drunk, this is going to hurt.\"\u0026nbsp; The injured canine looked at him.\u0026nbsp; \"Sorry, but we're going to have to make do.\"\u0026nbsp; Michelle returned with the small white box.\u0026nbsp; The shepherd opened it, laying stuff on the coffee table, barely looking at each item.\u0026nbsp; \"Scissors, I need scissors.\"\u0026nbsp; The husky ran off, only to return with a pair of scissors.\u0026nbsp; Jacob took them, cutting Stray's shirt up the middle.\u0026nbsp; Carefully peeling the shirt away, he examined the wound.\u0026nbsp; \"Blood's dried around the wound, but, it is still pretty fresh.\"\u0026nbsp; He said to himself, gingerly touching the skin around the hole.\u0026nbsp; Stray winced.\u0026nbsp; \"Yeah, it is sensitive.\"\u0026nbsp; He grabbed a penlight from the table and shone it in the wound.\u0026nbsp; \"Some bleeding, but no major vessels or bones hit.\u0026nbsp; Just a flesh wound.\u0026nbsp; Can't find and remove bullet fragments here.\u0026nbsp; I'll have to disinfect and patch up.\"\u0026nbsp; The shepherd muttered, grabbing the alcohol.\u0026nbsp; \"Get ready, this is going to burn.\"\u0026nbsp; He soaked some gauze with the fluid.\u0026nbsp; \"Deep breath,\" he commanded.\u0026nbsp; Stray inhaled-and yelled when the shepherd pressed the gauze to his wound.\u0026nbsp; His fingers dug into the leather couch, as the doctor cleaned the wound.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Finally, Jacob removed the gauze, now stained red with blood.\u0026nbsp; Taking another piece of gauze, he carefully cleaned around the wound.\u0026nbsp; Next, he grabbed more gauze and a bottle of something.\u0026nbsp; \"Don't worry, it is an anti-bacterial.\u0026nbsp; It prevents infection.\" The shepherd explained, smiling, \"It doesn't burn.\"\u0026nbsp; Soaking the gauze with the yellow fluid, he firmly pressed it to the wound.\u0026nbsp; \"Michelle, would you help with the bandaging?\"\u0026nbsp; The husky grabbed the bandaging, stretching it out for her boyfriend.\u0026nbsp; \"Here, wrap it around his shoulder, and bring it under his other arm.\u0026nbsp; Yes, like that.\"\u0026nbsp; Jacob instructed, as Michelle wrapped the bandage around Stray.\u0026nbsp; Standing up, the shepherd asked, \"Feel better?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray sat up, rotating his injured shoulder.\u0026nbsp; It stung, but it wasn't burning pain anymore.\u0026nbsp; Not wanting to use energy to speak, he gave the shepherd a thumbs-up.\u0026nbsp; \"Good.\u0026nbsp; You can clean up and sleep in the guest room, if you like.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Fuck it,\" the exhausted canine slurred, falling back on the couch and closing his eyes.\u0026nbsp; 'Finally, the peace of sleep,' he thought, drifting into the darkness.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jacob nodded at Michelle.\u0026nbsp; They waited until Stray's breathing reached a steady rhythm.\u0026nbsp; Then, they carefully moved him into the guest bedroom down the hall.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The darkness had lied.\u0026nbsp; It did not bring him peace, as he had hoped.\u0026nbsp; Instead, it brought him nightmares.\u0026nbsp; Stray tossed and turned in his sleep, his sub-conscious replaying the events, adding its own twisted details.\u0026nbsp; That smile.\u0026nbsp; That smile, filled with sharp teeth, dripping with blood.\u0026nbsp; Stray wanted to look away, but it filled his vision.\u0026nbsp; Two orbs, glowing in the darkness, shone above the horrific grin of death.\u0026nbsp; They were eyes, demonic, golden eyes.\u0026nbsp; Then the wolf appeared.\u0026nbsp; Stray stepped back from the monster.\u0026nbsp; The red wolf continued to smile, his glowing eyes unblinking.\u0026nbsp; His body was distorted, thinner, and more grotesque.\u0026nbsp; Long, thin claws grew from his hideous hands, almost scraping the floor.\u0026nbsp; He moved towards the horror-struck canine.\u0026nbsp; Stray wanted to scream.\u0026nbsp; For some reason, he didn't.\u0026nbsp; He wanted to run, flee this hellish creature, but he wouldn't move.\u0026nbsp; 'Run! Run _damn it_!' his mind screamed, but he just stood there.\u0026nbsp; The diabolic wolf came to stand directly in front of Stray.\u0026nbsp; The monster cocked his head to the side, staring at the canine.\u0026nbsp; _Bang!_ Stray felt something hit his chest.\u0026nbsp; _Bang! Bang!_\u0026nbsp; Two more hits to his chest.\u0026nbsp; The canine couldn't breathe.\u0026nbsp; He gasped for air, falling to his knees.\u0026nbsp; The evil wolf looked over him, opening his maw, letting his long, forked tongue hang out.\u0026nbsp; Stray heard a gurgle come from its throat.\u0026nbsp; It threw its head back and laughed.\u0026nbsp; The unholy sound shook Stray to his core.\u0026nbsp; He fell over, closing his eyes, preparing for the worst.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; When nothing happened, he opened them.\u0026nbsp; He was lying on hardwood floor.\u0026nbsp; Slowly, Stray rose to his feet, checking for injuries.\u0026nbsp; Not finding any, the bewildered canine looked around.\u0026nbsp; This place was familiar, too familiar.\u0026nbsp; With a start, Stray realized he was in Mike's house.\u0026nbsp; He was in the entry room.\u0026nbsp; His ears swiveled this way and that, searching for danger.\u0026nbsp; This was Mike's house, but something was wrong-terribly wrong.\u0026nbsp; Stray couldn't quite place what it was, but something was not right.\u0026nbsp; Taking a deep breath, he tried to sort it out.\u0026nbsp; Something on the wall caught his attention.\u0026nbsp; Stepping towards it, the canine drew back in fear.\u0026nbsp; Long, thin lines scarred the wall.\u0026nbsp; Some devastating claw had damaged the wall.\u0026nbsp; Stray's heart thumped in his chest.\u0026nbsp; What the hell was going on?\u0026nbsp; His boot stepped in something wet.\u0026nbsp; Swallowing, he anxiously looked down.\u0026nbsp; It was blood.\u0026nbsp; A long, sticky trail led from the living room doors to where the stricken canine stood.\u0026nbsp; Grudgingly, he followed the disturbing trail to the living room doors.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The doors' nice wood had been clawed and ripped.\u0026nbsp; Stray's paw froze, just above the golden handle.\u0026nbsp; He feared what was behind them.\u0026nbsp; He feared even more that he already knew the answer.\u0026nbsp; With a quick inhale of air, he threw open the doors.\u0026nbsp; Nothing could have prepared him for what he found.\u0026nbsp; The living room was a mess straight from a horror film.\u0026nbsp; Darkness sat in the room, like an ominous cloud.\u0026nbsp; What little light was in the room, threw ghastly shadows on the wall.\u0026nbsp; It was trashed, furniture flipped and stuff scattered around.\u0026nbsp; Stray cried out, seeing what lay in the center of the room.\u0026nbsp; Sweat broke out over his entire body and he shook violently.\u0026nbsp; In the center of the room lay Mike, in a pool of dark blood.\u0026nbsp; Falling to his knees, Stray grabbed his head, shaking it.\u0026nbsp; So caught up in his fear, he almost didn't hear the voice.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Why didn't you save me?\"\u0026nbsp; The voice was almost a hiss.\u0026nbsp; Stray continued to shake uncontrollably, ignoring the voice.\u0026nbsp; \"Why didn't you save me?\"\u0026nbsp; It asked again.\u0026nbsp; The canine felt something touch his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; He looked up, into the face of Mike.\u0026nbsp; Screaming, he flung himself backwards, away from his dead friend.\u0026nbsp; Panting and shaking, Stray beheld his friend, standing before him.\u0026nbsp; The hole between his eyes was there, and Mike stared at him through lifeless eyes.\u0026nbsp; \"You're the reason I'm dead.\"\u0026nbsp; He whispered his mouth not moving.\u0026nbsp; Stray started sobbing.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm _sorry!_\" he babbled hysterically, as Mike moved towards him.\u0026nbsp; Mike stood over his friend, now hugging his knees and crying.\u0026nbsp; Emotionless, he touched Stray's left shoulder.\u0026nbsp; Confused, the canine stared at him.\u0026nbsp; Something warm and wet was on his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; He looked and saw blood flowing freely from where Mike had touched him.\u0026nbsp; Falling back, he held his shoulder, seeing the evil wolf in the corner of the room, with his glowing eyes and wicked smile.\u0026nbsp; Blood covered Stray and he tried to scream-\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray woke up with a scream.\u0026nbsp; He was sweating and out of breath.\u0026nbsp; His hand flew to his injured shoulder.\u0026nbsp; There wasn't any blood.\u0026nbsp; 'It was just a dream,' he breathed, 'a nightmare.'\u0026nbsp; Moaning, the canine let himself fall back into bed.\u0026nbsp; His shoulder was sore, but thanks to Jacob, it felt better.\u0026nbsp; Lying there, it occurred to him that he didn't remember being in this room.\u0026nbsp; The last thing he remembered was Jacob patching up his shoulder on the couch.\u0026nbsp; Michelle and Jacob must have moved him after he passed out.\u0026nbsp; Stretching out, Stray observed the room.\u0026nbsp; It was big, but not too big.\u0026nbsp; There wasn't much in here except a dresser and some pictures of landscapes.\u0026nbsp; Bright orange light came in from a window beside the bed.\u0026nbsp; 'It must be sometime in the evening,' he thought.\u0026nbsp; The canine rolled over and looked at the alarm clock on the nightstand.\u0026nbsp; It read 6:14 p.m.\u0026nbsp; Throwing back the covers, he slowly stood.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The light hurt Stray's eyes and his head hurt.\u0026nbsp; He noticed a piece of paper at the edge of the nightstand.\u0026nbsp; Picking it up, he read, \"Sorry, we moved you to a more comfortable position.\u0026nbsp; We figured you would like a bed, instead of the couch.\u0026nbsp; The bathroom is across the hall from you, if you need to shower or anything.\u0026nbsp; Jacob and I have taken some time off work, we should be nearby if you need us.\u0026nbsp; -Michelle\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray left the room, walking down the hall towards the kitchen.\u0026nbsp; Michelle was in the living room, watching something on T.V. \u0026nbsp;Her eyes were swollen slightly and there were many tissues lying crumpled near her, indicating the husky had been crying. \u0026nbsp;\"Good morning.\" She called.\u0026nbsp; The mutt grunted in response.\u0026nbsp; \"Need anything?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Just a drink.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"The kitchen's right there.\u0026nbsp; Get what you want.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He intended to do just that.\u0026nbsp; Reaching the fridge, he scanned its contents.\u0026nbsp; The thirsty canine grabbed a soda, quickly gulping it down.\u0026nbsp; Wiping his mouth with his hand, he walked towards the bathroom.\u0026nbsp; \"You wouldn't happen to have any clothes lying around, would you?\u0026nbsp; I'm about to shower.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Not really, but, Jacob should have something you can borrow.\u0026nbsp; I'll find you something.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Thanks.\" \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You okay?\" she asked concerned.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yeah.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray contemplated telling her about his nightmare, but decided not to. \"Are you?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I'll be fine eventually.\"\u0026nbsp; Nodding, the canine headed towards the bathroom.\u0026nbsp; Entering the bathroom, he noticed everything was clean and organized.\u0026nbsp; It gave a really nice impression, and Stray wondered if all furs like Jacob kept everything immaculate.\u0026nbsp; Removing his jeans and boxers, he stepped into the shower.\u0026nbsp; Minutes later, steaming water was streaming over his fur.\u0026nbsp; He found himself working shower gel into his fur, not really paying attention.\u0026nbsp; The headache was still there, making it harder for the canine to focus.\u0026nbsp; It wasn't like he really wanted to.\u0026nbsp; At this point, Stray did not know what to think.\u0026nbsp; Everything just didn't matter anymore.\u0026nbsp; Standing, the canine let the water roll over him.\u0026nbsp; 'There has to be something,' he pondered, '_something_, to deal with this.'\u0026nbsp; All he wanted to do was curl up and do nothing.\u0026nbsp; His fingers found Mike's pendant, and began turning it over, again and again.\u0026nbsp; He thought of Mike, and what he had said in his nightmare.\u0026nbsp; With a heavy sigh, the canine stepped out of the shower.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Drying off with a nearby towel, he wrapped it around his lower body.\u0026nbsp; Stray leaned over the sink, staring at his reflection.\u0026nbsp; His bright eyes were dull.\u0026nbsp; The weary face looking back showed he looked as bad as he felt.\u0026nbsp; He saw himself as what he thought he was- a miserable, worthless stray.\u0026nbsp; He had no home, no family, and few friends.\u0026nbsp; 'Why am I even alive?' he wondered, beginning to hate the mutt in the mirror.\u0026nbsp; His reflection pulled his lips back, in an intimidating snarl.\u0026nbsp; \"It's your fault!\" he snarled, pointing a finger at the mirror.\u0026nbsp; \"You're the reason he's dead! You're nothing more than a pathetic, fucking _stray!_\"\u0026nbsp; Stray punched the mirror, shattering the glass.\u0026nbsp; Pain bloomed in his hand.\u0026nbsp; Panting, he fell back against the wall, seeing the broken fragments lying in and around the sink.\u0026nbsp; He slid slowly to the floor, holding his head.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The door flew open, hitting the counter with a _Bang!_\u0026nbsp; \"Stray! What happened?\"\u0026nbsp; Michelle found Stray, curled up on the floor, and also noticed the broken mirror.\u0026nbsp; Her friend just sat there, not even moving.\u0026nbsp; Kneeling beside him, she gently touched his shoulder.\u0026nbsp; \"Stray,\" she said gently, \"are you okay?\"\u0026nbsp; Touching his hand, she noticed the blood on it.\u0026nbsp; \"You're bleeding.\u0026nbsp; What's wrong with you?\" she asked worriedly.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"What do you fucking think?\" He snarled, glaring at her.\u0026nbsp; The husky was startled by his hostility.\u0026nbsp; \"Maybe the fact that my friend was murdered?\u0026nbsp; Maybe the fact that I was completely helpless, and couldn't save him?\u0026nbsp; Maybe the fact that I really am a stray?\"\u0026nbsp; He looked at her, anger flaring in his eyes.\u0026nbsp; \"I mean, look at me.\u0026nbsp; What do I have? Nothing.\u0026nbsp; I've lost, not one, but _two_ families.\u0026nbsp; My apartment, my home? Gone.\u0026nbsp; What's left?\u0026nbsp; Nothing.\u0026nbsp; I don't deserve to live.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray looked away from Michelle, concentrating on the blood dripping from his injured hand.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Don't say that.\u0026nbsp; Please, you're scaring me Stray.\"\u0026nbsp; She moved to hold him.\u0026nbsp; He pulled away from her touch, but she grabbed him tightly.\u0026nbsp; \"Listen to me, Stray.\u0026nbsp; It was _not_ your fault. Understand?\u0026nbsp; It just happened; there was nothing you could do.\u0026nbsp; I miss Mike, too, but he's gone and we have to accept that.\"\u0026nbsp; She caressed his back, putting her face next to his. \u0026nbsp;\"You're not a stray, you're my friend. I know things are bad now, but they will get better.\u0026nbsp; I don't know when, or how, but they will.\u0026nbsp; I'll be here for you every step of the way.\"\u0026nbsp; She kissed his forehead, rubbing his head fur.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I just- I just don't know what to do.\u0026nbsp; Nothing matters to me anymore.\u0026nbsp; I want to do something, anything, but no matter what comes to mind, I just don't feel like it.\u0026nbsp; I can't feel happy.\"\u0026nbsp; Looking at Michelle, the anger faded from his eyes, slowly being replaced with sorrow.\u0026nbsp; Michelle hugged him tighter.\u0026nbsp; Seeing him in this state was just wrong.\u0026nbsp; She couldn't see the cheerful, nonchalant, friend he was supposed to be.\u0026nbsp; Instead, he was a broken mess of a creature.\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnger swelled within her. Michelle stayed on the bathroom floor, holding her friend, praying that he would be okay- and that the ones who had done this to him would burn in Hell.\n\nStray let Michelle hold him.\u0026nbsp; He had cut his hand pretty bad on the mirror, but, it would heal.\u0026nbsp; Jacob could patch it up in no time, he figured.\u0026nbsp; Michelle breathed softly on his neck.\u0026nbsp; She was doing her best to soothe him, and it was starting to work.\u0026nbsp; 'Would he ever feel better?' he asked himself.\u0026nbsp; All his feelings, good and bad, had disappeared.\u0026nbsp; A void was all that was left of them. \u0026nbsp;Slowly, he stood.\n\n\"I need fresh air.\"\n\nMichelle nodded.\u0026nbsp; On her way out of the bathroom, she handed him some clothes.\u0026nbsp; Stray put the jeans and plain tee on.\u0026nbsp; He looked at the remains of the mirror, noting he would have to pay Jacob for that. \u0026nbsp;Stepping out, he walked towards the living room. \u0026nbsp;He opened the sliding glass door that lead to the deck outside.\u0026nbsp; The cool air was a relief, as it rushed past his face.\u0026nbsp; Jacob had a nice deck.\u0026nbsp; It looked over the trees, to the city on the horizon.\u0026nbsp; The canine imagined it must look amazing with the city lit up at night.\u0026nbsp; He laid back in one of the deck chairs nearby. The sun was just sinking below the horizon, letting the darkness take the sky.\u0026nbsp; Stray inhaled, wishing there was a place where he could hide from the pain, and the nothingness inside it left him with.\u0026nbsp;\n\nHis ears twitched as he heard the door open behind him.\u0026nbsp; \"Nice view, isn't it?\"\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jacob leaned back in the chair next to his.\u0026nbsp; \"It's one of the reasons I wanted this house.\"\n\n\"It is a nice view. \u0026nbsp;This house is nice. \u0026nbsp;You must get paid pretty well.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray commented.\n\nJacob laughed, \"Well, I'm only a few years out of med. school actually.\u0026nbsp; I've been out for about three years. I'm still really just paying back loans.\"\n\n\"Who bought the house then?\"\n\n\"My parents,\" the shepherd said indifferently.\u0026nbsp; Stray turned to look at Jacob.\n\n\"They must be loaded.\"\n\nJacob shrugged. \"They're doctors.\"\u0026nbsp; He stared at the twilight sky.\u0026nbsp; \"We all are actually, me, my sisters, and our parents.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray's eyebrows rose.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Your entire family?\"\n\n\"Yup,\" he continued, avoiding eye contact, \"all in different fields.\"\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Stray whistled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"It must have been tough growing up.\u0026nbsp; Under all that pressure to be a doctor.\"\n\n\"Not really,\" the shepherd shrugged again, still not making eye contact, \"I wanted to be one, so I became one.\"\n\n\"They buy you the Camaro, too?\"\n\nJacob smiled, \"Yes, it was my graduation present. My parents get us cars for graduating med. school.\"\u0026nbsp; The shepherd smiled, remembering his graduation day.\u0026nbsp; \"It was the happiest day of my life.\u0026nbsp; That day I became _Dr._ Jacob.\"\u0026nbsp; He chuckled, \"The better part of 20 years, working my tail off to get there.\u0026nbsp; Mom and Dad were so proud.\u0026nbsp; I finally had my degree, and my car.\u0026nbsp; My sisters were there, too.\"\u0026nbsp; Jacob trailed off, his smile fading.\u0026nbsp; Stray noticed.\n\n\"Are your sisters older or younger than you?\"\n\n\"One is older and the other younger.\" Jacob said apathetically.\n\nStray thought for a moment.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Where are you from?\"\n\n\"The South.\"\n\n\"How did you end up here?\u0026nbsp; It's a little far from home.\"\n\nJacob continued staring out over the railing.\u0026nbsp; \"I wanted a change of scenery.\u0026nbsp; I was tired of the heat and the flat land.\"\u0026nbsp; There was something in the doctor's voice, making Stray suspicious.\u0026nbsp; He couldn't quite tell what it was, but Jacob's tone seemed-hurt.\n\n\"You ever miss home, and your family?\"\n\nJacob shifted nervously, and cleared his throat.\u0026nbsp; \"Actually I haven't talked to any of them in a while.\u0026nbsp; I haven't seen any of them since I graduated, now that I think about it.\"\u0026nbsp; He continued staring over the trees, towards the city, deep in his own thoughts.\u0026nbsp; His tail swished anxiously, and his ears were held low to his head.\u0026nbsp; Stray guessed that Jacob wasn't telling him everything.\u0026nbsp; He wondered why Jacob was uncomfortable discussing his family.\u0026nbsp; 'Why did you leave your family?', he wondered.\n\nJacob turned, realizing Stray's hand was bleeding.\u0026nbsp; \"What happened to your hand?\"\u0026nbsp; Stray looked away, embarrassed.\n\n\"Well, I kind of got angry at myself and hit your mirror.\u0026nbsp; I'm sorry, I'll buy you another one.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe shepherd nodded, \"I see. Don't worry about it, I'll deal with it later.\u0026nbsp; Here, I can bandage your hand if you want.\" \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\n\nBoth canines turned at the sound of the glass doors being opened.\u0026nbsp; Michelle walked out, forcing a smile.\u0026nbsp; \"We all have a lot on our minds.\u0026nbsp; So, how about tonight, we just go out, have a good time, and forget everything for awhile.\"\u0026nbsp; She suggested, looking in turn at the two males.\u0026nbsp; \"We'll go to Underworld, get hammered, and let go of all our problems.\u0026nbsp; It'll be like old times.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Just without Mike.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray muttered.\u0026nbsp; Michelle looked down.\n\n\"Yes, but we need to get our minds off that.\u0026nbsp; We need to accept he's in a better place, and forget the pain right now.\u0026nbsp; Especially you, Stray.\"\u0026nbsp; Her blue eyes bored into him.\u0026nbsp; The canine sighed.\u0026nbsp; She was right.\u0026nbsp; He wanted an escape from the pain.\u0026nbsp; Here it was.\u0026nbsp; All he had to do was have a good time with Michelle and her boyfriend.\u0026nbsp; A few drinks and losing himself to the music in the club seemed like a great idea.\u0026nbsp; He had to get his mind off Mike, and his grief.\u0026nbsp; If he didn't start feeling better soon- well he didn't want to imagine what he would do.\u0026nbsp; Turning towards Michelle, he nodded.\n\nJacob began to walk inside, \"Okay, we can take the Camaro, assuming Stray doesn't mind the back seat.\"\u0026nbsp; The mutt shook his head from side to side.\u0026nbsp; \"Oh, and I'll bandage your hand before we go.\"\u0026nbsp; Stray, thanked him, and followed him inside.\u0026nbsp; After his hand was taken care of, he got in the car with Michelle and Jacob.\u0026nbsp; Jacob backed it out of the garage, and headed for the city.\n\nStray stared out of the small window, thinking to himself.\u0026nbsp; He had suffered so much lately and now, he was afraid to even sleep.\u0026nbsp; He shivered, remembering the demonic wolf from his nightmare.\u0026nbsp; Even asleep he couldn't escape the pain.\u0026nbsp; Stray shivered again.\u0026nbsp;\n\nIf the only thing he had was pain and suffering, what was the point of living?\n\n  \n  \n\n","series":{"name":"Aimless Fate","previous":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/252956-aimless-fate-chapter-1.json","next":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/262485-aimless-fate-chapter-3.json"}}