FSE

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“Help wanted:” the hot-pink sign taped next to the oaken door of the club read in bold dark letters. “Dancers,” it further exclaimed below in bright glittery text.

It was sunny on a Friday afternoon in May. It had rained not too long ago and the air was still soft and peppered with the scent of wet pavement and rubber.

Behind the stained-glass inlaid door to the club the staff was bustling about. There was a shipment and they were assisting one of the co-owners of the club; a delicately figured gazelle wearing a purple silk shirt that hung loosely around his short-furred torso, and tight black jeans. The tousled curls of his blond hair were held back in a teal clip, and in his hand he held a clipboard.

“So, Carlos,” the gazelle said, the lightest hint of a Yorkshire accent on his tongue. He sat on the polished wooden chair and looked up from the clipboard toward the red wolf taking bottles out of a case. “How are we doing on the equipment side of things?” he said checking off boxes on the paper attached to the clipboard.

“Ice-machine’s still a little janky but at least it’s running,” Carlos, wearing blue jeans and a white t-shirt, looked to the glassware hanging from brass rails over the bar. “Though to be honest, Daniel, I’m worried about the dish-washer.”

“Repairman’s scheduled to come,” Daniel paused to pick up his phone to read the clock on it, and the exhaustion on his face was unmistakable. “Actually, they should be here now.”

Daniel sighed while looking around, tapping the clipboard with his pen as if that would hasten the repairman’s arrival.

“Fuck me, I hope they aren’t a no-show,” he said as his brow furrowed. “There’s no way I’d make anyone drink from a dirty glass. Well, maybe in a scene.”

“And if the health-inspector drops by tonight and it’s busted,” Carlos made a cutting motion across his neck with a comical sound to match.

“I should call them,” Daniel said as he placed the clipboard on the bar’s polished marble surface with a clack, and started to dial the repairman’s number. The busy-signal that responded coaxed a sigh out of the tired gazelle.

“Daniel,” The gazelle turned to the deep voice of his lover coming up behind carrying a filing box. “Are you almost done with inventory? I only need that to make sure everything is balanced for the month.”

“Almost done, Steven,” Daniel said to the tall muscular lion in a black t-shirt and blue-jeans. “Make sure to remind me to reward you later, in case I forget,”

A purr erupted from Steven’s throat for a moment and a smile spread on his muzzle, then he headed up the stairs into the office, the golden furred tip of his tail twitching with a restrained excitement, leaving Daniel to admire the way his rump flexed as he ascended.

“So, the speed rails are ready, back-up stock is on hand, and we have enough Scotch for three months,” Daniel eventually said while turning back to the task at hand to grab the clipboard and started marking down numbers. “Liqueurs look good, mixers are prepped. How about the soda-guns?”

“Stocked, sanitized, and ready to go,” Carlos said and Daniel smiled. “So, if that’s all? You okay if I…” he trailed off as he hooked a thumb in the air.

“Hm? Yes. Just make sure you’re back here for your shift,” Daniel said as the red wolf grinned then went to the coat-check to pick up a side-bag. Slinging the bag over his shoulder, Carlos made to leave with a casual salute to which Daniel waved his fingers at.

It had been six months since they opened their doors as The Lion And The Gazelle; one of the best gay kink clubs in the city. Daniel reflected on how the opportunity for owning the club came to them almost as if by fate. And how Steven came into his life, and the events associated with those memories. Events that he would much rather forget.

He was lost in his thoughts so much so that he didn’t hear his lover come down the stairs.

“We’re alone,” Steven said as he slid his arms around the gazelle’s body.

Daniel gripped at Steven’s thick arms then nestled back into the lion’s muscular chest. “Oh love, we are,” He smiled wide and cooed. “I have a surprise for you.”

“Oh? Is this,” the lion nibbled at Daniel’s exposed neck, his whiskers tickling the gazelle’s nape sending a ripple down the gazelle’s back. “A fun surprise?”

“Mm,” Daniel shivered. “You’ll just have to see for yourself.”

“Tease,” Steven grinned softly into Daniel’s tall ear, his breath warming the lightly furred flesh setting the hairs on end.

“I can’t give it to you here,” Daniel said as his hand slid along the strong furred arm to bring Steven’s hand close to his heart.

Steven’s purr was soft, but told Daniel of his pleasure. “My queen, I would like to see this surprise.”

“Very well,” Daniel said, then slid his arms out of the embrace and slipped off the chair to go to the stage. He climbed the steps at the side and flipped a switch. Music started playing and the lights reflecting off the disco-ball above scattered into a thousand beams, leaving spots of light that danced around the room.

“Ambiance,” Daniel cheekily grinned then made a hooking gesture with his finger to urge his lover on stage.

“As always, if my queen wills it,” Steven bowed his head as he followed Daniel up on the stage. His muscles rippled underneath the taught shirt he wore and his tail trembling in anticipation.

He walked up and stood ready for whatever his queen had planned for him.

“Kneel, my pet,” Daniel gently commanded the lion.

The lion knelt.

Daniel reached for a small velvet box that he had stashed behind the curtain. “My love, my pet, I have something I want to give you.”

The lion’s auburn eyes were glinting with golden light as he saw his lover approach with the box.

“You have been reliably at my side through so much already and with every day that passes, I find myself growing more and more in love with you,” Daniel opened the box, grabbed what was inside, and reached around the lion’s neck to place a thin gold chain around it. “My pet, I want to make you officially mine.”

The lion was silent, but his eyes never left the steel-blue of his lover’s.

“Do you accept the terrible burden of being my pet? Officially?” Daniel asked, his calm eyes resting gently on the sight of the lion before him.

“You don’t need to ask, my queen. I am yours. I always will be,” He said, whisper-soft.

“Then take this. As a symbol of our union,” Daniel produced a small gold heart-shaped lock from the box. “As a token, and as a reminder, that you are mine.”

He slipped the lock’s shank through the two ends of the chain, and flipped it closed with a click.

Daniel closed the box softly, and placed it aside. “Now stand, my pet. And kiss me,” he commanded softly with a smile.

His pet obeyed.

Then there came a knock at the door.

A slender cheetah with pink and purple tipped hair wearing a loose white t-shirt and black spandex shorts stood in the doorway when Daniel opened it.

“Good, you are open…” the cat stiffened up and presented his hand “I’m Ricky and I would like to apply for the position of dancer.” He smiled as his tan eyes darted to the pink help-wanted sign and back.

“Oh… well, we’re technically not open yet but sure.” Daniel said as he shook Ricky’s hand delicately. He then stepped to the side holding the door open. “Come on in, love.”

“Wow, this place is amazing!” Ricky said as he entered, his eyes soaking up the details of the club’s interior; from the dimly illuminated circular booths that sat along the sides to the dance floor in the middle, and eventually his eyes landed on the caged platforms to the side of the stage.

Ricky’s eyes widened when he saw Steven’s muscular body next to the stage. “Are you the bouncer?” he asked.

“This is Steven. He keeps the books balanced.” Daniel said. “And he is co-owner of The Lion And The Gazelle. My name is Daniel.”

“Oh neat, I work with a Danny.” Ricky said, to which Daniel grinned tersely for a moment.

“That’s not my name.” Daniel calmly said.

“Oh, Sorry,” Ricky sighed.

“No, it’s okay.” Daniel said with an assuring smile. “So you’re a dancer?”

Ricky’s eyes lit up and he nodded.

“Okay, so, we’re looking for people to put on display during peak hours. Are you familiar with go-go-dancing?” Daniel asked and Ricky nodded. “Well, good. Though when you’re not dancing, you may be asked to help out with other tasks so we will need to see a resume.”

Ricky had one offered not even a second after Daniel said it.

“Excellent.” Daniel grabbed it to look while Steven came up behind. “Nice cover letter. Concise. Direct. Good… Though I do see a lot of retail here for a dancer.”

“I’m trying to get my break.” Ricky said.

“Well, the dancing you will be expected to do here may not be the kind of dancing you want to see with a resume like yours.” Daniel warned. “We have a certain… clientele.”

“I know.” Ricky smiled. “The Lion And The Gazelle. Re-opened after being sold less than a year ago. I remember reading about it on a blog.”

Steven stiffened and Daniel smiled tersely, the memories coming back to him. “Is that all you read?” Daniel asked.

“Yeah, mostly,” Ricky said as he recoiled in on himself slightly. “I did hear about an investigation or something, but that was with the old name and I didn’t look too far into that.”

Daniel sighed “Well, new name, new management, new beginnings and all that.”

“Yep,” Ricky said. “Though, may I at least show you a bit of what I can do?”

Daniel nodded and crossed his arms… He took a few steps back to give the cheetah some room to move.

On the dance-floor, illuminated by the moving dots of light from the mirror-ball above, Ricky stood in his black spandex shorts and t-shirt for a moment, his shoulders moving with the beat of the music. Then his body started moving, taking different poses all while keeping perfect balance and with a tail that flowed along with the motion.

The dance was alluring and Daniel watched intently. The smooth motion unfolding on the lithe cheetah’s body like a flower in bloom.

He continued like that for close to a minute, keeping time with the music guiding him, until he was twirling around in place to land in a kneeling position in front of the gazelle.

“That’s not like anything I’ve seen before.” Daniel said to the panting cheetah. “I am impressed. What do you think, Steven?” he asked his partner behind him.

“That was pretty good.” Steven said. “Though, what kind of dance was that?”

“Just a little thing I had in my back pocket.” Ricky grinned, flashing his teeth as he stood with Daniel’s assistance. “So, have I got the job?”

“Well, I shouldn’t say yes without verifying your references but… Oh why not. Sure. Can you start tonight?”

Ricky’s smile was wide and toothy. “Will I have to bring a costume?”

Daniel nodded.

That night the music was intense and on the dance-floor was wall to wall flesh. The fever of the music took hold as the dance pumped it’s energy into the bodies that writhed with the flow.

Daniel and Steven, for all the hustle below, were in the office upstairs with Steven standing at the window watching the throng on the dance floor through the blinds, and with Daniel sitting at the desk.

Steven was paying particular attention to the way that Ricky was dancing in the cage. The cheetah’s body was flexing and moving in time with the music. And there were a few grasping hands that rose up in a vain attempt to claim him, to which he teasingly waggled his finger before flashing a smile.

His outfit was bold and stood in stark contrast to his lighter fur. It hugged his body tightly, showing off his slender form and the light glinted off the sequins stitched into the stretchy fabric like stars in the night’s sky.

“He’s pretty good” Steven said. “Hopefully sales will reflect the increased interest in the new spectacle.”

“Well, we probably won’t see much on the books until word spreads.” Daniel was sitting at the polished wooden desk poring over the laptop open before him. “Speaking of, c’mere babe. I need a fresh pair of eyes.” He said as he tucked a loose curl from in front of his face.

Steven came over to stand behind where the gazelle was seated. “What am I looking at?” he asked. “A flyer?”

“Mhm. It’s something I’ve wanted to try for a while.”

“A theme party!” Steven exclaimed. “I don’t think I’ve ever done something like that.”

“Yeah, I was thinking it might be fun to make it an annual thing.”

“This June?” Steven asked. “That’s going to be around Pride.”

Daniel nodded. “Yes. I really think it would help the club stand-out from the crowd if we did something a bit differently than the usual vibe.”

“Don’t you think us being a kink-bar does that well enough?”

“Hm, maybe. While we’re not the only kinky place on the block, I don’t think The Crop is going to be our main competition.”

“This will be my first Pride as your pet.” Steven purred as he gently started massaging his lover’s shoulders. “Will we have the chance to see the parade?”

“I don’t think so.” Daniel pouted as he leaned into the massage. “We’ll have to live vicariously through Sandra and Mavis.”

“Perhaps we can ask Sandra to D.J. the event,” Steven crouched behind his lover to press his nose against the gazelle’s nape. “You smell lovely tonight.”

“Oh honey.” The gazelle turned his head and reached to stroke the side of his pet’s cheek, smiling. “And you are, as always, the most beautiful lion.”

Steven turned Daniel around in the swiveling chair until he was facing him and dove in with a hungry kiss. Their tongues mingled as the thump from the music below kept time for them.

Steven took this chance to slide his hand down Daniel’s side to gently grip at his lover’s hips.

“Mm, babe.” Daniel said. “I want to. But we only have fifteen minutes before close.”

“That’s… not enough time.” Steven whispered with a playful chuckle. “But when we get home, may I?” His eyebrows raised as he trailed off.

“Mm, oh Steven, yes. Yes you may.”

Steven dove forward to plant another deep kiss on to his lover’s mouth, and Daniel responded by kissing back with equal fervor.

***

At the end of the night, Brutus the grizzly bear, and Steven were both finishing up moving the chairs out of the way to sweep the floor. The speakers were playing classic rock and the lights were on.

Daniel was at the bar with a martini within reach, and a cigarette lit and sitting in a tray next to him. He was counting the money from the cash register and placing it in a small plastic deposit bag.

Ricky stepped out of the dressing room in a loose belly shirt and black spandex shorts, a towel draped across his shoulder and sweat on his brow. “Is this the Stones?” He asked as he took a seat next to Daniel.

“The Who. And how dare you confuse the two,” Daniel chuckled and smiled.

Dimitri, the coyote had finished up cleaning his station and putting things away and was in the process of wiping down the taps when he said. “Here’s your share of the tips.” He said as he grabbed a roll of bills from under the bar and handed it to the cheetah. “It’s not rent, but it’s something.”

“I haven’t danced like that in a while.” Ricky said as he grabbed a chair. “I feel like celebrating a little bit.”

“If it’s cool with you Daniel, I could make a pitcher of Pina Coladas.” Dimitri offered.

“Sure, I could go for one too,” Daniel said, then asked “Were the tips good tonight?”

“Yep. Better than usual.” Dimitri then began preparing one of his best drinks.

“I believe you should thank Ricky for that,” Daniel said, tapping the ash from his cigarette into the pressed foil tray. He turned to the cheetah. “You were quite impressive in the cage tonight.”

“Thanks, though it took a lot out of me to dance that much.” Ricky smiled at Steven as he came up with a chair to sit nearby. “Can’t say it will be easy but I’ll try almost anything twice.”

“Well, you won’t be on display every day. Only Thursdays through Saturday. Breaks as needed. You can do that?”

“Easy. It keeps me open to practice which is what’s most important.” Ricky said as he sat on a chair next to the bar.

“No time for someone special in your life?” Daniel asked and then took the last sip of his martini.

“No. Not that I haven’t minded. Nobody special has come into my life like that.”

“I find that hard to believe,” Steven said.

Dimitri was ready with the drinks and they all started passing them around. Steven sniffed at his, wrinkled his nose slightly, but shrugged.

“Anyway, what shall we toast?” Daniel asked as he held his glass aloft.

“I think it should be Ricky’s choice.” Brutus said as he nodded towards the cheetah, taking a seat next to Daniel at the bar with a glass slid to his waiting hand by Dimitri.

“Oh shit, putting me on the spot? Well…” Ricky pondered for a moment, his brow furrowed, trying to find the right word. Finally he said “Opportunity.”

“That is an excellent toast,” Daniel smiled.

“I like it too,” Steven said as he raised his glass. “Maybe you’ll have your chance.”

“Mm, yeah, maybe.” Ricky grinned, then he took a sip of his drink as the others joined in.

Daniel then placed his drink next to him on the bar’s surface. “Sometimes the chances we take in life pay off.” Daniel said as he then took a draw on his cigarette. “We wouldn’t own this bar if we didn’t take ours.”

“I guess.” Ricky’s smile started to droop.

“And who knows, maybe the person you’re interested in is also interested in you?” Steven offered, which brought Ricky’s smile back, then the lion took a sip of his drink with a reassuring smile.

Dimitri drank his down completely in one sitting, drawing a chuckle from Brutus. “Well, it is late and my station is ready for tomorrow.” He said as he placed his glass on the rack in the dishwasher. He then flipped the towel in his hand over his shoulder and clasped his hands together. “So, if it’s cool with you, boss, I’d like to clock out.”

“Sure thing. Rest up, we’ll need you in top form tomorrow.” Daniel replied.

“Oh, and Daniel” Brutus said. “Don’t forget to return the props.”

“Oh, shit. Yes. Thank you Brutus.” Daniel grabbed his phone to add a reminder for tomorrow morning. “I’m sure Cass will be missing them if I forget.”

“Cass?” Ricky asked.

“Owner of The Crop.” Daniel said.

“The Crop?” Ricky asked. “Competition?”

Daniel laughed. “If we were a lesbian bar, perhaps.”

Ricky blushed, then took a longer sip of his drink.

“Anyhow, I’ve got to get home and my taxi is here.” Brutus came up to Daniel and gave him a warm hug. “I’m sure Frank is already asleep by now.”

“Do tell him I miss him.” Daniel said as he patted Brutus’s back.

“Will do.” He said back with a smile as the hug parted.

“Goodnight, Brutus.” Steven said as he raised his glass to salute, then finished his drink.

“I have to say, Dimitri does know how to make a killer Pina Colada” Ricky said. “It’s hitting me a little hard.”

“Well, you did work up a sweat and you’re probably hungry after all that dancing.” Steven said.

“I thought I saw you watching.” Ricky smiled and leaned back in his seat, letting his taut furred belly be seen by the now blushing lion. “So, if you want I do have other skills.” He eventually said as he turned his attention to Daniel.

“Well, before you say that, please understand that we are a kink bar.”

“I know.” Ricky nods. “As I said, I did my research. I was tempted to bring some of my kit but thought better of it last minute.”

“Ah, so, you’re part of the scene too?” Daniel asked, a smile slowly spreading on his face.

Ricky nodded. “Though I haven’t picked a side yet.” He stretched and yawned “not that I really want to, I’m happy playing different roles. Though I’m still looking for my break on that front too.”

“You’re full of surprises,” Steven said looking at the cheetah, Ricky noticed and blushed.

“Well, most of my free time I’m at the studio practicing.” Ricky said.

“Is that how you work out?” Steven asked.

“Kinda,” Ricky said. “It takes a lot of core control to be able to do what I do.” He smiled at the lion, feeling the boldness of the alcohol gather. “Why? Do you want to touch?” he said as he lifted the front of his shirt up further with a grin.

Steven smiled but shook his head politely.

“Aw.” Ricky pouted. “Still, let me show you a bit of what I know I can do.”

Ricky stood from his chair and approached the sitting lion. He moved with a sultry pace, to approach the lion in a rhythmic swaying of his hips, then he brought his arms up along his body seductively and then placed them around the lion’s shoulders as his began a dance that was both iconic and memorable not only for the fact that his body curled and gyrated against Steven’s lap seductively, but in the reaction that it elicited in the helpless lion.

Steven’s arousal was plainly visible through the tight jeans he wore. And Ricky, for all his confidence, noticed as well. But he held himself professionally. And Daniel was left to wonder if this was merely a demonstration of his prowess as a dancer, or his ability to seduce.

The gazelle felt a familiar twinge in his core, but it was quelled when he saw Steven reach up in a gesture that called for the dance to stop.

“You’ve more than proven yourself, Ricky,” Steven said, a gentle, but professional smile on his lips.

“if you want, you can dance tomorrow” Daniel said to Ricky who was now standing with his hands locked together and a timid smile on his face. “But it’s late and we do have to close up for the night.”

“Sure, I’d love to,” Ricky said as he shook the nervousness off him like water, and his smile redoubled itself. “Great music, a chance to dance all night, and sexy bosses to order me around? This is the perfect job!”

The next day Daniel was woken from the previous night’s sleep next to his lover by the mid-day light streaming in. He placed a hand over his eyes to shut out the brightness, as his head felt like it had been squeezed through a potato ricer and his eyes were dry and sore.

Squinting, he tried to fight the light as it’s daggers pierced into his brain, and knew he had to get something to drink.

Reaching to the side-table next to the bed, he grabbed at the water bottle and swigged a few good gulps of water. Then he carefully got out of bed and went to the kitchen to get the day’s routine started.

Walking out to the kitchen wearing nothing at all, he filled the kettle and prepared a carafe with a mesh plunger with enough coffee grounds to make enough for the two of them.

While the kettle was on the stove-top Daniel went to the pantry to see what he could prepare.

Steven came out of the bedroom and went up to place a warm kiss on his lover’s lips.

“Good morning, love” Daniel said after the kiss broke. “I hope cereal is okay for breakfast. I’ll do some groceries before the club opens.”

Steven started nibbling at Daniel’s neck, eliciting a soft moan from his lover. “We still haven’t been able to…” he said.

Daniel sighed softly while melting into the attention, the tension in his head fading with the embrace. “I know. And I’m sorry. But last night was more exhausting than I thought it would be.” Daniel kissed him deeply.

Steven kissed in return, then parted and sighed, a look of mild concern crossing his face. “I don’t mind if we can’t, but I don’t want you to think what happened with Ricky last night was a problem.” He sighed and kissed the side of Daniel’s neck.

“Steven, it’s fine.” Daniel cooed. “I would have reacted the same,” he smirked. “I know what it’s like to have a hot guy give you a go.”

“I still feel like I should say something.”

“Don’t worry about it. Besides, he was auditioning. He knows what gets people paying. Though, we’re not even going to talk about the licensing it would require for us to become that sort of establishment.”

Steven laughed softly into his lover’s ears.

“And I guess if you want to, we can…” Daniel slid his hand down to grasp lightly at his lover’s ass.

“Again, there’s not nearly enough time.” Steven grinned.

Daniel laughed “Well, tomorrow is Sunday and I don’t have anything scheduled… So, lets bank it until then?”

Steven groaned softly, but relented. “If it pleases my queen.” He paused, an eager smile growing on his face. “Will I be bound this time?”

“Maybe.” Daniel teased.

“I look forward to it.”

***

Daniel came back from the grocer a few hours later in his civilian clothing with two bags; one slung under his arm and the other held close, and his phone was glued to his ear.

Steven, in a pair of loose fitting sweat-pants and white t-shirt was sitting on the couch playing a video game, but when he saw Daniel’s arms were full, he put the controller down and stood to grab the bag that the gazelle was holding.

Daniel’s mother’s voice was on the other end of the call. “I don’t understand why you can’t find someone and start giving me grandkids.” She said in a thicker accent than his.

“You’ve already got grandkids, mum. And more coming soon.” Daniel sighed. “How far along is Beatrice anyway?”

“Three months.” His mother’s voice came through the phone.

Daniel was silent but he mouthed thanks to his lover who was now holding the bag in his hands.

“You have to promise not to say whether it’s a boy or a girl. I want it to be a surprise.”

“Fine. Will you be visiting for the baptism?” Daniel’s mother asked.

“You know that might be difficult. I can’t just shut the club’s doors whenever it suits me.”

“Blood is thicker than water, Danny.”

“That’s not what the saying… oh, you know what, never mind. So, if that’s all then are you finished with me?” Daniel said, his exhaustion starting to show.

Steven helped with the last bag of groceries, placing it on the counter.

“I don’t understand it Danny.” His mum eventually said. “You keep pretending that you’re being the dutiful son by calling and yet it’s to harass me with these lies of you being a poof?” his mother’s voice was cold. “Stop playing these games and just marry someone.”

A beep intruded on the call. Daniel read the notification and his eyes lit up.

“Oh no, a very important call is coming and I have to take it.” Daniel said hurriedly and with a grin. ”Love you mum. Bye.”

He ended the call and switched over before she could say anything in response.

“You are a life-saver,” Daniel said the second the call clicked over.

“Oh?” Sandra’s voice came across. “The usual?”

“Mhm.” Daniel ran his hand through his hair. “I’m a poof today.”

“Honey, you’re a poof every day.” Sandra laughed. “Anyhow, other than mummy, how are things?”

“Doing well actually. How about you?”

“Positively dreadful.”

“Oh no! What’s wrong, love?”

“It’s just… a donor for the charity can’t renew and now Mavis’s isn’t sure they’ll have enough to make it through the year.”

“That is dreadful.”

“If we can’t come up with enough to cover the rest of the rent, we’re going to have to go back to being grass-roots.”

“Well, that’s not too bad, is it?”

“And we’d have to lay off half the staff… And our needle-exchange program will have to go… And don’t even get me started on the already-starved food-pantry.”

“Yeah, that is a problem.”

“Mhm.” Sandra sighed. “And if we lose the building, we would lose so much more.”

“Oh. Oh my.” Daniel exhaled, then his eyes grew wide and a smile crept on his face. “Actually, Sandra, dear. I think I might have an idea.”

“Go on.”

“Let’s throw a party,” Daniel smiled.

“You throw parties every weekend. How is this going to help?”

“A theme party,” Daniel beamed.

“Okay, you have my interest.” Sandra said.

“No idea for the theme yet, but something like this might help. And if we time it for during Pride.”

Sandra hummed. “Yes, I can see that.”

“And if we, say, charged something like ten-dollars to get in the door.”

“With how many people go to the club every weekend when it’s not pride…” Sandra trailed off.

“I know.” Daniel’s smile grew wider. “And if we sell enough drinks, we might even be able to match it… double the donation, essentially.”

“Don’t give me hope, honey. Not unless you plan on following through.”

“Oh, I do. I just need to know the theme.”

“I assume you’ll need Mavis and I to help spread the word? We can make a post to the socials. Get it out to everyone.”

“That might help.” Daniel was smiling wide. “I just hope it’s enough.”

“It should be. We’ll see about getting this to go viral. Modern times call for modern solutions.” Sandra said.

“Modern… yes…” Daniel’s eyes narrowed slightly and a grin began spreading on his lips.

“You’ll need some talent.” Sandra added.

“Would you be interested in doing a show?”

“I’d love to but honestly I’m booked solid for that week.”

“Oh pooh.” Daniel pouted.

“Anyhoo, I would love to chat more with you but I do have a gig tonight, and I have to find the right outfit and you know how that goes.”

“I’m glad you called. Thank you.”

“Anything for you, sweetie.” Sandra ended the call.

“I guess we have to throw a party now.” Daniel said to Steven who was close by.

“I’m sure we can do it.”

“I hope so.” Daniel ran his fingers through his hair. “I have an idea, but that’s all it is right now.”

“Oh, just as a reminder, we do have to visit Frank and Brutus today after Cass.” Steven said.

“Ahh yes. Thank you. I had completely forgotten,”

“No worries.” Steven said as he massaged Daniel’s shoulders. “I’ll get the car ready.”

The trunk of Steven’s gray hatchback wouldn’t shut with the St. Andrew’s cross in the back. A point that caused Daniel some frustration. “I guess this is where we might need to borrow some rope,” he said, pointing to the latch. “Get the door lashed as shut as it’ll go.”

“No worries, we have you covered.” Frank the slender feline said, standing next to the gazelle who was fidgeting with a key-fob. “Though you might be able to get more space if you take the spanking bench out. You can always make two trips, and it is nice to see you in a setting that isn’t the club.”

“Not that there’s anything wrong with the atmosphere.” Brutus said, leaning up from guiding the cross into the hatchback from the side door.

“I should hope not.” Daniel chuckled. “The silent partners suddenly feeling like they can’t visit their investment? That would be alarming.”

“I do love the atmosphere, especially since the renovations.” Frank said. “It’s certainly an improvement from what it used to be.”

“I know,” Daniel said. “But it’s no worries either way. I know you’re in it for the long haul.”

“Good scotch is worth sticking around for,” Brutus laughed.

At that point, Daniel’s phone decided to buzz, informing the gazelle that a message was waiting.

“It’s Ricky.” Daniel said when reading it. “He’s wants to talk to us about something.”

“Ricky?” Frank asked.

“Oh yes, we finally found a dancer. He’s really good at it too.”

“Yeah, you should’ve seen him.” Brutus said. “Kid’s got talent.”

“Well, I guess this is my fault for being such a home-body the past little while.” Frank said.

“Don’t worry about it, dear.” Daniel smiled. “I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to meet you.”

“Well, if everything is taken care of, why don’t you come in? It would be nice to have a little sit-down.” Brutus offered.

“I’m sure we can do that.” Steven smiled. “We have some time.”

“And I just made some cookies.” Frank grinned “They’re probably still a little warm.”

“So that’s what I smelled?” Daniel asked.

Frank nodded. “It’s an experimental recipe I’m trying out.”

“I would love to have a bite. Especially since you’ve so generously donated some of your old kit to the club.” Daniel said.

“Well, I know it will be put to good use there.” Frank said.

“Are you bowing out of the scene?” Daniel asked. “I mean, they look like they’re still sturdy.”

“It’s not that.” The cat sighed “I’m just not as pliable as I once was.”

“And there are other ways he can submit to me. Props don’t make the dom. Though having them on hand is nice.” Brutus said.

“Well, they’re likely to be in the back room, reserved for private affairs and demonstrations, I guess.” Steven said.

“Though having access to them is giving me ideas.” Daniel said as he turned to look to his partner coyly. “If you’re down for a little play time later, we can try them out.”

Steven blushed and a purr emanated from his throat, and Brutus and Frank both laughed softly at seeing his reaction.

“So, come on in. We’ll get the two of you set up.” Frank said as he led the gazelle to follow him.

They went into the house and were led to the sitting room, a place decorated with all kinds of porcelain knick-knacks and figurines. And as Brutus took a seat on a paisley love-seat, Frank went to the kitchen just beyond the hall.

“So how has business been for you?” Daniel asked as he and Steven sat on a white plush couch across from the bear. “A cozy bed and breakfast in the heart of the city? And with an equipped dungeon?”

“Well, we do have regulars, if that’s what you’re asking about.” Brutus said as Frank came in carrying a platter with some teacups and cookies on a plate, and a piping hot pot of tea ready to be poured.

“Tea and biscuits?” Daniel chuckled. “You do spoil us, Frank.”

“Oh please, it’s the least I can do for the two of you.” He said, his tail twitching gleefully. “Besides, I can get your final approval on whether they are a hit or a miss.”

“They’re delicious, husband.” Brutus said.

“Thank you. I do like sharing what I make. And as I said, this is a bit of a new recipe.”

“Smells a little spicy.” Steven said as he sniffed a cookie he had plucked from the plate. When he bit into it, his eyes narrowed in bliss. “Oh, this is good.”

Frank beamed at the compliment and urged Daniel to try one. “Go ahead, I did make them for the two of you if I’m being honest.”

Daniel reached for one and took a bite. The soft shortbread cookie melted in his mouth with a rich buttery flavour while the spices that Frank used started to come to the fore.

“There’s cinnamon in here” Daniel said, chewing the bite carefully. “Maybe some nutmeg, but what is this other taste? It’s familiar but I can’t quite place it.”

“Star anise.” Frank beamed. “And I’m glad you approve.”

“Oh I do, my dear. Though there is something I’ve been meaning to ask you.” Daniel said. “It’s more for authenticity for a theme-party.”

“A theme-party?” Frank purred “Oh I like where this is going.”

“Yes, it’s for a fundraiser for the charity that you volunteer at.”

“So you heard the news, then?” Frank said, his posture slipping and his face growing downcast. “Honestly, I’ve donated to help out but there’s only so much money now that it’s tied up in running the club.”

“Well, the theme I was thinking was something you might find interesting.”

“Oh? Do tell.” Frank urged.

Daniel paused to command the attention of everyone in the room for just a moment, then uttered “Mod.”

“Ooh, lovely!” Frank purred and his pupils widened. “I assume you’ll need some help?”

“We can use all the help we can get, love.” Daniel said. “Though truth be told I may have to go shopping because I don’t think I have anything in my wardrobe that would cut it at a mod party.”

“You’re about my size, I’m sure I can find something you can wear.” Frank turned to his husband “And you suggested I donate all my old vintage clothing.”

“Well, you hardly wear any of it nowadays and you have an entire closet full.” Brutus almost pouted.

“I like to look nice sometimes.” Frank said with a smile. “Especially if it’s for you.” He reached in and nuzzled his husband’s cheek.

Brutus smiled and reached his arm around the feline, holding him close. “Well, give me a good pair of jeans and my vest and I’ll be happier than a clam.” He rumbled.

“That probably won’t cut it.” Frank said as he nestled in to the crook of the bear’s arm. “Dont’ worry, husband, I’ll bet I have something that will fit you.”

The bear looked down to his gut, then back up to his feline partner with disbelieving smirk etched on his face.

“I’m sure I have something.” Frank offered, a sheepish smile spreading on his face.

Daniel chuckled “we’re planning it for the week of Pride, so it’s likely to be busy. Hopefully.”

“You might want to do some research into what drinks were popular back then.” Brutus said. “A few retro offerings might encourage people to spend a few more bucks.”

“That’s a great idea.” Daniel said. “Though what sorts of drinks did you have back then?”

“Well, I can’t speak on the mod scene but I know I drank a lot of beer when I was younger.” Brutus laughed.

“Most of them are drinks that are already on the menu nowadays” Frank purred. “Manhattans, daiquiris, the classics, really. Though don’t be afraid to experiment.” Frank said as he leaned up to smooth the fabric on his slacks. “I’m sure you can come up with something fabulous. Truth be told I never got much of a chance to participate in the mod scene, I was just a boy back then.” Frank said. “But I do so love the look.”

“Fair enough.” Daniel said as he finished his cookie. “Do you mind if I snag another?”

“Help yourself, dear.” Frank grinned.

“So, if I can ask, when did the two of you know you wanted to get married?” Steven asked.

Frank sighed wistfully. “We kinda knew from the first day that we wanted to be together.”

Brutus pulled Frank in for an embrace then said “We have similar interests, he was… is… cute as a button, and in a way it felt like the goddess is smiling on me whenever I see his face.”

“And every time he says it like that, I know I made the right choice to say yes.” Frank smiled and leaned into the embrace.

“So, Brutus, you were the one to pop the question?” Steven asked

“Yeah. If I didn’t he probably would’ve.”

“It was a day after it became legal.” Frank said. “It was such a lousy day too, all grey and raining and blah. But when he said it, it was almost like magic how the clouds parted just for a brief moment and the sun shone down on us.”

“Wait, so the clouds literally parted?”

“Maybe, though that could be me wanting to mythologize it a little bit.” Frank chuckled. “Though the rain didn’t let up. We were both soaked by the time he finally got the question out.” Frank chuckled.

“And did you know at that time that you wanted to be his sub?” Steven asked.

“That came first.” Frank paused, placing a hand on his husband’s leg. “Why do you ask?”

Steven fished the collar out from under his mane and showed the two of them. Frank gasped and Brutus smiled wide.

“See, I told you gold would look better on him.” Frank said to the bear.

“So you finally asked, eh?” Brutus teased Daniel. “Well, good for you.”

“Yes, it’s like a dream.” Daniel said as he leaned into Steven’s shoulder. “I’m still gobsmacked he even said yes.”

“Well, I’m proud of you. You’ve come a long way from the kid I knew those years back.”

Daniel smiled. “Well, I do have to thank you for being my mentor.”

“You were a quick study. And that you have your own pet now, and a wonderful one at that, makes me real proud.” Brutus smiled.

“I did teach you a few things too, if I recall.” Daniel smirked as he lifted his tea cup to his mouth.

“Yeah, that you did.” The bear smiled. “Though I didn’t know you were a soft dom back then.”

“We figured it out rather quick.” Daniel smiled “And you never pushed me into something that I wasn’t willing to try at least once.”

“Still, I’m glad you figured out where you stand. And you’re proof that you don’t need to be hard to be a dom.”

“If he were hard about it, I likely wouldn’t have said yes.” Steven said. “Though, we should consider heading out soon, Ricky’s probably waiting.”

“Oh, yes,” Daniel said. “I’ll text him to let him know we’re on our way.”

“Where did he say he would be?” Steven asked.

Daniel pulled out his phone and read the display after tapping the messaging icon “He’s at the studio?”

“Did he say where that was?”

“No. I’ll get the address.” Daniel said as he tapped a message into his phone, then hit send.

“Well, I’m glad we got the chance to talk, and I am excited at the prospect of revisiting my youth” Frank said to Daniel and Steven. “So, how much will the cover be?”

“Oh, don’t you dare think of paying. You’re the silent partners.” Daniel urged as he moved to stand. “Though I hope we’re back in time for open.” He mused then reached over to hug Frank and Brutus. “But we really should get going. And I assume we’ll see you tonight, Brutus?”

“I’ll be there, as usual.” The bear smiled.

Ricky was practicing at the dance-studio down town, a few blocks from the club. When Daniel and Steven entered, they were pointed to the back from the welcome desk staffed by a lithe gnu in dark green slacks and a dress shirt.

“Where is he?” Daniel wondered as he scanned the crowd, walking side by side with Steven.

Around the studio were mirrors on the walls and a few couches off to the side with a refrigerator next to them.

“Up here!” they hear Ricky shout from high up.

Daniel turned his head to the ceiling and there was Ricky hanging wrapped in silk about twenty feet off the ground…

“Hi!” he said, then he released a strap from his leg and began spinning along his center in with his legs spread until he came to the end where he was hanging just a few feet above the thick crash pad below him. Twisting fluidly he placed his foot down with a wobble.

“So close…” he said with a deflated sigh.

“That was amazing!” Steven said, “What was that called?”

“That? Oh, that was a double star drop.”

“It looks dangerous.” Daniel said.

“It is. Especially if you don’t know what you’re doing.” Ricky said as he picked up a towel from the back of a couch. “I also do lyra dancing,” he pointed to a large steel hoop hanging from the ceiling across the studio with a fox spinning artfully in it.

“So, this is how you spend your free time?” Daniel asked, his eyebrows raised and a playful smile on his face. “Are you planning on ditching us for the circus?”

Ricky shook his head after wiping his brow. “No, it’s going to be a long time before I’m ready for auditions.” He said as he was moving the hanging fabric to a hook on the wall. Turning back to face them, he gestured to a fluffy upholstered couch to the side. “Can I get you something to drink?”

“I think I could go for a water.” Steven said.

“I’ll have one too,” Daniel said. “Thank you. So, Ricky. If you know all of this, why didn’t you put any of it on your resume?”

“I’m still learning.” He said. “I have classes twice a week and I try to get as much practice in when I can.”

“What’s this called?” Steven asked.

“Aerial silk,” Ricky beamed. “It’s not a very old form of acrobatics, but I think it’s gorgeous.” He smiled as he handed the two a cold bottle of water each.

Steven opened his bottle. “I’ve seen this kind of thing before.” He sipped, then swallowed.

“Probably from Cirque.” Ricky said. “They’re the ones that really made it popular. I want to work with them eventually, but I’m nowhere near ready.” He said as he twisted his body to stretch his core. “I have the grip, and I know how to do the wraps required for most of the moves, but it’s the form I’m still struggling with.”

“How so?” Steven asked as he took the seat that Ricky gestured the two to sit in. “You seem plenty flexible.” He said as Ricky was now bending over to place his palms flat on the floor.

“Oh this? Yeah, it’s not flexibility that I have trouble with.” He grinned from between his legs.

He straightened up and went to sit on an upholstered chair next to the couch with his leg on the arm rest.

“Truth be told, I want to do a paired routine for the silks.” Ricky said as a smile erupted on his face, head tilting back to look at Steven, then Daniel. “But finding a practice partner that runs the same hours I do isn’t easy.”

“So, you messaged us about something?” Daniel gently urged.

“Oh. Yeah, about last night.” Ricky placed his leg down on the floor and brushed off his lap, his smile fading and his face taking on a serious tone. “Sorry. I didn’t want to come on so hard. I was a little drunk, feeling really good about myself, and I crossed a line. I shouldn’t have.”

“Well, thank you.” Steven said. “I’m glad we got that cleared up. I wouldn’t want my… I mean…” he blushed.

Ricky smiled “It’s okay. It happens when I get carried away sometimes too.”

“You know, if you wanted to come down to the club on a day off, we could figure out if we could do this there,” Daniel mentioned, gesturing to the studio. “Perhaps, if you would like to, we could see if we can adapt the rigging at the club for a performance or two?”

Steven nods. “Yes, the hard-points are definitely solid.” He sips his water. “We’ve had some riggers put on private shows a few times.”

“How strong are they?” Ricky asked.

“They could hold a motorcycle.” Daniel beamed. “We’ve had three people tied up and suspended over the stage once with absolutely no problems.”

Ricky smiled wide. “If you can build it to spec., sure. I can get Gerald to inspect it for safety.”

“Gerald?” Daniel asks.

“He’s the owner of this studio. He knows everything about how to make it safe.”

“That would be good.” Daniel said. “We’re in need of a spectacle for a party we want to throw.”

Ricky thinks for a second, then says “if you can get the rigging up in time, I could do a performance.”

“Are you sure?” Steven asked. “It looks like it would be quite the strain.”

“Oh, I’ve done worse. I’ve practiced here for literal hours before. Gerald has had to kick me out a few times so he could close up for the night.”

“Well, just make sure not to over do it.” Daniel said.

“No worries, I can pace myself. If I do perform, I will need to take some breaks anyway.”

“Can you come up with a routine in time?” Steven asked.

“Of course. I’ve got a few I’ve been working on. Some of my best moves.” Ricky smiled.

“So can we count on you to perform for the party?” Steven asked.

Ricky nodded. “Just give me the date.”

Daniel gave the date to Ricky, at first Ricky’s eyes lit up, then his smile faded a bit. “I was hoping I could go to the parade this year.”

“Same here.” Steven said.

“I mean, if you just can’t.” Daniel said. “We can find something else.”

“No, I’ll do it.” Ricky said.

“Oh good, thank you.” Daniel said. “That’s one less thing to worry about.”

“So, just to be sure, you still want me to dance tonight?”

“Yes, Fridays and Saturdays are our biggest days.” Steven said. “And having a cute dancer on stage is sure to help.”

Ricky blushed.

“So, it’s settled?” Daniel asked, and Ricky nodded. “Good… Well, I’m glad that we got that taken care of. Hopefully the rest will fall into place before the party.”

“I can talk to Gerald to see if we can borrow what we need, but if you want me to do more than just dance in the cages, it will help if you have the right equipment on hand.”

“That shouldn’t be a problem. I’m sure we can find some cash to spare.” Daniel said. “And we can deduct it come tax time.”

“We’re probably going to need some safety equipment.” Steven added, pointing to the thick crash pad. Then turning to Ricky he continued “I don’t want to take any chances.”

“I’ll get you in touch with Gerald. He can get you a line on the best suppliers. Safest on the market.” Ricky said as his eyes darted up to the silks above. “Though that’s not to say this art is completely safe.”

“I can imagine.” Daniel said.

“Well, that’s why we need to make sure everything is down the line.” Steven added.

“So, if that’s everything?” Daniel asked, and Ricky nodded. “Excellent. We expect to see you at the club tonight ready to dance.”

“I’m glad. I’d hate to think that I blew my shot by giving Steven a lap-dance.” Ricky said as he reached up to rub the back of his neck.

“Don’t worry.” Daniel said. “If anything, it does show your prowess with the dance.”

“Anyway, we do need to get back to the club. Open is in a few hours and I’m sure Carlos is there wondering where we are.” Steven added.

And with that Daniel and Steven made their farewells and returned to the club to finish up the preparations for the night.

The next morning Daniel was woken up on the bright Sunday afternoon by gentle kisses along his neck and shoulders.

Daniel reached up to place a hand on Steven’s cheek, then gently coaxed Steven to instead kiss him on the lips.

They kiss while Steven’s hand gently slid down to pull Daniel closer, so their hips met at just the right place to show one another their arousal.

Daniel held Steven’s head close to his, their tongues delicately sampling the taste of the other’s mouth. His hand eventually slid over Steven’s shoulder to roll him on to his back, carrying his head along so that the kiss remained unbroken.

“My queen, may I ask of you something?” Steven said as the kiss ended, and another kiss began.

Daniel broke it for a moment to slide more of his body over the supine lion’s, letting his breathing recover before saying “If I am able to provide, simply ask.”

“I would like cede control. Bind me, please.” The lion urged softly.

Daniel smiled, took a moment to ponder for a moment, then made a decision. He slid off the lion’s body to reach down to a drawer beside the bed. Inside it there was an array of various instruments; handcuffs, manacles, and various segments of colored cord.

He reached for two lengths of black silk cord and placed them on the bed to shift back and return to his position above the lion.

“I believe I would like to use these today, if you are comfortable with it?” Daniel asked, and Steven nodded, the pupils of the lion’s auburn eyes dilating slightly.

The lion laid his hands on the hips of his lover, his queen, and a slow rumbling purr emanated from his throat.

Daniel reached down to gently take Steven’s right hand in his left to wrap the silk cord around the lion’s wrist with his right. Taking the time to layer the rope neatly in a coil around his wrist with just enough play, holding the tail end of the rope neatly against the lion’s wrist with his thumb.

When Daniel had the lion’s wrist wrapped enough times to feel comfortable in his inability to escape it, he fixed the wrapping with a knot that allowed for a small loop to stick out.

Reaching down to the lion’s chest with his right hand, holding the lion’s bound hand in his left as he shifted and slid up to allow him to reach the clasp latched into a sturdy metal eyelet installed on the headboard. With one hand holding the loop of rope, and the other holding the clasp open, Daniel slipped the rope on and secured the lion’s arm in place.

When Daniel slid back down to rest his hips just above the lion’s groin, he leaned down on his chest and placed a soft kiss on his lips. “Do you want more?” Daniel asked when he parted.

“Yes.” The lion said softly. “I am yours to do with as you please.”

Daniel smiled, the pleasure in his eyes matching the response from his groin. “Love, I would like to have you further restrained before I satisfy myself with you.” He brought his head down to place another kiss on the lion’s whiskered lips. “Is this acceptable?”

The lion nodded and his purr grew.

Daniel reached for the second rope he had brought out and gently reached for the lion’s left hand which was now roaming and caressing at Daniel’s hips and belly. His thumb teasingly brushing up against the gazelle’s aroused penis.

Daniel sighed at the touch. “Mm. Love, in time. I will show you how much I need you.” He reached down to grab the lion’s hand to slowly bind it similarly to how the other arm was bound.

When he had the wrist tied, he leaned down while holding the arm close to plant another soft kiss on the lion’s lips, whom tried to lean forward to extend the kiss when Daniel eventually brought his head back up with a smile.

As Daniel held the arm close to him, he laced his fingers in the lion’s large hand, and slid his body up gently to reach the shackle on the other side of the headboard. When he had it secured in the same way, he sighed and smiled as he slid back down to the lion who was watching his every move with eyes that matched the excitement that stood proudly behind the gazelle. When Daniel slid back down to rest his hips above the lion’s groin, he felt it pressing against his rear.

“Mm, love, I see you’re ready.” Daniel smiled as he reached towards the night stand to grab a small plastic flip-top bottle. “Let me get ready for you.”

He had the bottle opened and applied some of the contents to his fingers, then he applied it to his rear, slipping a finger in just a bit to make sure the inside was lubricated.

When he was satisfied he was ready, he didn’t need to look behind him to reach for the lion’s stiffened member to grasp and moisten it with the liquid remaining on his hands. The lion was rendered delirious with this, his moan low and gentle with each touch of his lover’s hands.

Daniel then slid up to place a brief kiss on the lion’s lips once more, then hitching his hips up to reach the right position to allow the lion entry.

When Daniel slowly lowered himself, he gasped as the lion pressed into him. He held there, pulled up a bit, then after a second lowered himself again, letting the lion spear his flesh.

The lion was moaning as Daniel felt his confines slowly allow entry to the lion’s girth. He held there for a moment for the initial pain of the stretching to fade, and after a few slow breaths, he was ready.

“My love, don’t hold back.” Daniel urged as he began a slow rhythm as he straddled his lover’s hips, letting the lion’s meat invade his body fully. He was breathless when he finally rested his hips on the lion’s, the lion’s member buried fully inside, to then withdraw once again.

This went on for a while, the moaning and purring of the lion beneath him spurring Daniel on.

He leaned forward, letting the lion slip out a bit, to plant a rough and heavy kiss on the lion’s lips.

The lion took this chance to slowly buck himself into the deepest pit of his lover, the yearning in his flesh needing release.

Daniel was kissing heavily, and passionately, as he rocked his hips forward and back in time with the lion’s thrusts.

He leaned up after breaking the kiss, running a free hand through his curled hair as his heaving breaths matched the pants of his lover below.

Daniel took his other hand and began gently rubbing himself, hoping to intensify his already inflamed arousal.

The lion, for all his passion, was starting to strain against the restraints, and his mouth was starting to tighten at the corners, his lips slipping up along his teeth to bare them in betrayal of the fire that was engulfing him. His legs were trying to gain purchase so as to give him better position to augment his thrusts. His tail tip was twitching and trembling when it wasn’t lashing back and forth.

“My queen, I’m close.” The lion huffed through gritted teeth. “Are you?”

“Almost.” Daniel said, as he raised the tempo of his action just enough. Every time his hips would meet the lion’s, there was a deep sensation in his guts of being filled, the parts inside being pressed and massaged with every thrust.

“I… I can’t hold… back.” The lion was gritting his teeth now as his eyes were screwed shut. His arms were fighting against the restraints, and the eyelets groaned in protest.

“Do it babe.” Daniel urged, his own breathing rough and hard. His own peak was near and he only needed one more thing to bring him over the edge… something the lion was about to provide.

“Ah!” The lion gasped loudly, then bucked his hips up strongly into the gazelle’s hips, to deliver the prize that both of them sought.

Daniel was unable to hold himself in at the feeling of his lover’s finally crossing the threshold and drove down hard onto him, holding the lion deep.

The two of them reached their zenith, Daniel’s just after the lion’s, with their passion reaching it’s crescendo.

When Daniel finally came down from the high he was feeling, he collapsed with the lion still within him, to kiss the lion deeply and intensely, his tongue reaching deep, and the lion responding in kind.

Their kisses slowly reduced in passion to be soft and tender.

“Are you okay?” Daniel asked as the kiss finally ended. “I mean, do you want out?”

“Not yet.” Steven said, his breathing still heavy and his heartbeat beating out from the intensity of the passion.

“Okay.” Daniel cooed as he leaned down. “Though I think you’re slipping out.”

“Aw.” Steven pouted, but purred nonetheless.

The two rested like that, laying against one another as the lion’s mast was eventually released from it’s confines, and Daniel tensed slightly and with an inhale.

“So, what do you want to do for the day, love?” Daniel whispered as he rested on the lion’s chest.

“I’d like to lie like this, with you, all day.”

“It is Sunday. A day of rest.” Daniel chuckled. “If mother could see me right now, she’d have a stroke.”

“Mm. Maybe, maybe not.” Steven said, a hopeful smile on his face.

“You don’t know her like I do.”

“Perhaps. But I do know you. At least, more than I did since we met.”

“You don’t understand. She’s… not normal.” Daniel reached up to release one of Steven’s arms from the shackle. “She also abusive.” he paused, recalling the echos of memories he wanted to leave in the distance. Then he reached up to release the other arm from the other shackle.

Steven urged Daniel to lay back down against him, chest to chest, and held the gazelle in his arms. “Have you thought of standing up to her?” Steven asked. “You tell me boundaries are important, but she doesn’t seem to respect yours.”

“I’ve always wanted to, but that would probably just make things worse.” Daniel sighed.

“Whatever you choose, I’ll be beside you.” Steven stroked Daniel’s back as the gazelle melted into the embrace.

“Thank you. Though I hope nothing ever does happen on that front. She may be a handful but at least I can deal with that.”

“So, there’s nothing scheduled for the day?” Steven asked, tracing imaginary circles on the back of his lover, and purring contentedly into his ear.

“Not a thing.” Daniel smiled. “Why?” Daniel lifted his head to look his lover in the eyes. the steel-blue irises locking with the auburn eyes of the lion below him.

“Oh, no reason.” Steven said, then slid a hand down to grasp at his lover’s rear. “I just… want to show you how much I want you right now.”

“Ooh, is this my lucky day?” Daniel sighed as his lover’s hand slid closer to the lion’s previously claimed prize. “I think so.”

“Only if you want to.” Steven said.

“I think I do.” Daniel leaned up, propping himself up with his arms. “Should be easier a second time.”

“I’m still wearing the bindings.” Steven winked. “Maybe attach them to the ceiling?”

“The pully from last time is still up.” Daniel mulled the idea over. Trying to imagine the varying positions he could have Steven in, and he felt his loins stir once again. “Yes. I think I shall do that.”

Steven’s purr was loud and his arousal was evident to the gazelle laying on his stomach.

The party was planned for the next day and Daniel was inside the club in the middle of the dance floor looking up above the stage.

Up on the catwalk was Gerald, wearing a button-down striped shirt and navy-blue slacks. He was leaning over the edge to inspect the shackles that were locking pulleys to the riveted hard points attached to the girders of the ceiling.

“I hope he’s careful up there.” Daniel whispered nervously.

After fidgeting with the shackle, Gerald gave a thumb’s up gesture to Daniel who smiled.

“Good…” the gazelle said as he struck off an item on the list on his clipboard. He went to the bar as Gerald went back into the office where Steven was working.

“So, let’s see how fast you can do these new drinks.” Daniel said to Dimitri as he took a seat at the bar next to Ricky.

“All three?” the coyote asked, and Daniel nodded. “Well, good test I guess. Am I being timed?”

“No. But do show me your a-game.” Daniel smiled. “I know you can.”

Dimitri grinned and brought up six shot glasses and lined them all up. He grabbed a bottle of blue Curacao from the back of the bar and free-poured each shot with an ounce of the liquid. Then he took some Irish cream and with a bar-spoon layered it on top, then the last step was dripping a few drops of grenadine into the shot so it would fall through the creamy liquor pulling filaments of a pinkish hue down into the blue below.

“Good!” Daniel smiled.

But Dimitri was already on to the next drinks, pouring a shot of spicy sweet liquor into two highball glasses with ice and then filling them with ginger ale from the soda-gun. He slid them towards Daniel after dropping a tall straw into each glass.

“Easy,” Daniel remarked. “Now the last one.”

“Already on it,” Dimitri grinned as he grabbed the blender pitcher and added ice, pineapple, pineapple juice, strawberries, a few dashes of cream of coconut, and some coconut rum to blend smooth. He poured the pink contents into four tall glasses, and garnished each with a small piece of pineapple and a cherry on a swizzle stick.

“Very nice.” Daniel grinned. “If they’re as good as they look, they’re probably going to go fast.”

“If the buzz on-line for the party is to be believed, we’re going to need someone on fruit duty.” Dimitri said.

“Well, I’ll be on stage most of the night so I hope I won’t need to do other duties tomorrow,” Ricky added as he reached a hand over to one of the shot glasses. “That’s actually kinda pretty. What does it taste like?”

“Help yourself.” Daniel said. “It’s better than pouring it out. Just don’t get a hangover.”

“Don’t worry. I make sure to stay hydrated, especially before big scenes.” Ricky smiled.

“And don’t forget to stretch.” Gerald offered as he came towards the bar with a grin on his face.

“Yes Dad.” Ricky playfully chided and downed the shot, then placed the glass on the bar top.

“Anyhow, what do you think of the decor?” Daniel asked, turning on his seat with one of the blended drinks in his hand.

The place was vibrant. There were bright swatches of colored light spread all over and layered from different angles, highlighting the Warhol-esque prints hanging on the walls of various pop-culture icons, giving the place a very colorful and bold appearance.

“You should totally keep this look for a while.” Ricky said as he reached for one of the mixed drinks. Taking a small sip to taste, his tan-eyes lit up and he smiled “that tastes just like a candy I used to eat as a kid.”

“I know, right?” Daniel said as he leaned forward with a grin. “I think it was Charles that got me to try it.”

“Well, whatever it is, it’s delicious.” Ricky said as Steven came down from the office upstairs to join them. “Hey big guy, you gotta try this.” And he offered the lion his drink.

Steven grabbed it, sniffed it, and politely returned it to Ricky shaking his head gently.

Then there was a knock. Daniel stiffened, then went to answer the door. “Oh, good. You’re here.” Daniel said as he ushered the black bear in blue coveralls with a dolly of two taped-up boxes in.

Steven went over to the bear and started lifting the boxes on to the bar while Daniel signed the paperwork that was offered to him.

After signing the papers and handing them back to the delivery man, Daniel then opened one of the boxes. Inside were a number of tall black boxes with a picture of a molten wax lamp on the side of each one.

“Oh wow, I haven’t seen one of these in ages.” Gerald said as he pulled one out of the box to admire it’s tall conical shape.

“I thought it would make for an authentic touch; place them in the booths, set the mood.” Daniel smiled. “Get the magic flowing.”

“So, Ricky. Have you got a routine for tomorrow?” Gerald asked as he placed the lamp on the bar top to then grab one of the pink drinks.

“I think so. Start off with the silks on the first few dances, Do a few slow poses, rotations. And move to the lyra and do the usual you’ve seen me do a hundred times by now.” Ricky said, taking another sip of the mixed drink. “thirty minute breaks in between, but each performance being about fifteen minutes.”

“This will be a good test of your endurance.” Gerald said and Ricky nodded. “And don’t worry, I’ll be there to spot you.”

“I am going to be so sore afterward.” Ricky said as he placed the mixed drink down and grabbed one of the blended drinks to take a sip. “Hm, this one tastes like a keeper.”

“You think so?” Steven asked.

“Yeah, it’s kinda like a piña colada’s gay brother.” Ricky grinned.

“The trick with this one is to use fresh fruit.” Dimitri said.

“Anyway, these are the specials for the party.” Daniel said. “But most of the other drinks that will be featured are regular orders anyway. Mostly what was popular during the era.”

“I should also take it easy I guess.” Gerald said while placing his unfinished drink on the bar. “I wouldn’t want to be off my game while Ricky’s in the air.”

“Of course, for the purposes of the party, you are technically under my employ for the night.”

“I don’t want the money, honestly.” Gerald smiled. “I’ll do what I can to help Ricky get his break.”

“Aww” Daniel said, then chuckled.

“He reminds me a lot of me when I was an acrobat.” The gnu said.

“Have you ever performed?” Steven asked.

“Oh yes. In my prime I was touring with a circus troupe. My spouse and I were a paired routine of contortionists and we did some aerial performances too.”

“Not anymore?”

“No, not anymore.” He grinned. “But while you can take the clown out of the big top, you can’t take the big top out of the clown.” He saluted.

“Its why he runs the studio.” Ricky said. “He was my teacher for a while too.”

"Does he still teach you?” Daniel asked.

“No, that time of my life is over. Age and an old injury conspired to ground me.” The gnu flashed his teeth. “But it worked out, I get to see the next generation of acrobats grow up. And seeing one of my best students getting work doing what he loves?”

“I’m sure you’re proud.”

“I am. He’s like a son to me.”

Ricky, at this point, was blushing heavily at everyone talking about him. “The resemblance is uncanny” he said jokingly, then took a long sip of his drink.

Daniel laughed and turned to Dimitri “You are good to pull double this weekend? I’m sorry to do this, but it’s all hands on deck.”

“You’re giving me double-time and a half. Of course I’m good.” He grinned. “Not the worst I’ve ever done.”

“And I can help with fruit duty” Steven said. “It’ll give me something to do.”

“It’s mostly just gonna be chopping. C’mere, I’ll show you the fast way to do it.” Dimitri said as Steven went behind the bar to watch the coyote prepare a pineapple.

“So you used to perform?” Daniel said? “What was the life like?”

“Oh it was great!” Gerald said, a smile spreading on his muzzle. “Took a lot out of me, but I have no regrets.”

“Well, maybe one.”

He grinned and turned his head while reaching up to grab his shoulder. “Yeah. Okay, maybe one. But that was a rookie mistake on my part.”

“I still think it’s not on you. The silk was just kinda old.”

“And that’s why it was on me.” He said. “Don’t make my mistakes, kiddo.” He then smiled and placed a hand on Ricky’s shoulder. “You can go as far as you want to, you just need a chance.”

“Well, regardless, I do have a performance to get ready for and I’m sure you know how that goes.” Ricky said.

“I do. Do you need a ride home?”

“I’d love one, thank you.” He said.

And with that the two of them left to rest up for the performance tomorrow.

Inside Daniel was bubbling. This was happening. The party was going to go off, everyone was going to have a great time, and the charity would be able to survive, for another year at least.

This was a good day.

The club was packed Friday night.

More than half of the party-goers were dressed in a modern manner, and the rest were dressed in some shade of kink.

The music was thumping to a classical vibe, and the drinks flowed as everyone had a thirst that night for something that was being served.

Donations were made even before the first few drinks were sold, and the numbers that they counted coming in were notable, even to Sandra whom had arrived after her show had ended, and mid-way through Ricky’s first performance.

“Oh my god, he is fabulous up there.” Sandra said, his gaze locked on Ricky posing while wrapped up in silk above the stage. “And the setting is divine.”

“Only the best, love.” Daniel smiled, sitting in a green crushed velvet jacket and cream silk cravat, sipping on a martini. The warm glow of the wax lamp in the corner accentuating his modern appearance with a bright orange and blue lightning bolt crossing down his face. “I assume Mavis will be showing when her duties are over?”

“Yes, she’s got some things to wrap up with for the charity but she will be here soon.” Sandra said, casually adjusting his bouffant wig from his earlier performance.

“Excellent.” Daniel smiled.

“I should make a complaint though.” Sandra jokingly pouted. “You missed my gig.”

“Would you like to speak to the manager?” Daniel teased.

Sandra looked at Daniel with a raised eyebrow and clicked his tongue. “If you want me to get all official on you, I will.”

Daniel laughed out loud, nearly tipping his martini on to his black corduroy bell-bottoms.

Sandra joined in.

“I guess I should consider myself lucky that I’m a V.I.P.. Though I did make a donation.”

“Good tips earlier?”

“Yes!” Sandra winked. “Real good ones too. And so many selfies. But I’m not here to talk about me. How about you?” He cooed. “You’re pulling this off like a champ and here you are shooting the shit with me like a high-roller.”

“Well, I’m not sure what else I can do in this moment. Everything seems to be going according to plan.” He turned to his friend. “But I will admit it has been tiring.” Daniel then turned to watch the crowd. “I do have to keep an eye out for trouble.”

“Well, if it’s about him, that chapter of your life is over.”

“It’s not that. He’s gone. And I am happy about it.”

The two sat for a moment, Daniel soaking up the atmosphere and letting his eyes rest on Ricky above the stage. He was currently balanced in the splits with each foot knotted into the shimmering pink silk.

“So, do you think he’s a keeper?” Sandra interrupted Daniel’s gazing.

“Hm?” Daniel turned to the fox.

“The dancer.” Sandra said. “You’ve got that look on you when you look at him.”

“Oh, it’s nothing.”

“Don’t lie to me, you know you can’t.”

“Ugh, fine.” Daniel shifted in his seat to be closer to the fox. “Ricky gave Steven a lap dance and I think he might be thinking things.”

“You know you can trust him. Steven, at least.”

“Oh that I am sure of.” Daniel said, his face softening. “He wouldn’t. Not after getting collared.”

“I heard. Lucky girl.” Sandra teased. “I guess he really is off limits now.”

“You know me, I don’t like to share.” Daniel laughed.

“I know.” The fox smiled warmly. “Still, if Ricky tries something, you can trust that Steven will do the noble thing.”

“I guess” Daniel paused to take a sip of his drink. “He has talked about boundaries, in a way.”

“Do you think Ricky might forget them?”

“I don’t think so. He’s driven and this may be his shot at greatness.” Daniel turned to look Sandra in the eye. “Even if he has ideas, I’m sure he won’t do something unprofessional. At least not right now. Not while his dream is so close.”

“Well, if that’s the case why are you so worried?”

“I don’t know. I feel uneasy.”

“It’s probably nerves, honey.” Sandra put an arm around Daniel’s shoulder. “You worked yourself hard these last few weeks. Give yourself a break and celebrate.”

“Yes.” Daniel tried to shrug off the worry. “It’s probably just nerves.” He finished the rest of his martini and placed the glass on the table. “Anyway, I do have to check on things, so I must part ways for now.”

“I’ll keep your seat warm for you.” Sandra smiled and bat his over-done lashes cutely, then leaned back into the booth comfortably.

Daniel wove his way through the crowd expertly. Having experience navigating dense crowds, he cut through expertly while keeping time with the music.

Most of the eyes were on Ricky above. And certainly Ricky was deserving of the attention. He was suspended far enough above the stage that Daniel had to crane his neck from his place on the dance floor.

Ricky now had a foot knotted in one silk and the was holding on to the other while his body was spinning artfully to appear like a ballerina.

It was a magical moment for him and Ricky was smiling above the crowd, the lights hitting his body to make his costume shimmer, and his fur glow.

Daniel was glad to have found him.

***

The music had long since changed, Ricky was currently on break, and Gerald was getting the lyra set up for the remaining performances.

Daniel went to the dressing room to meet Carlos who had come from the back shyly. “Oh hey, Boss.” He said, holding a crate of pineapple in his hands. “More fruit.”

Daniel nodded and waved him along with a smile. Then when he had left, he turned to knock on Ricky’s door.

“Hey.” Ricky said as Daniel opened the door. The cheetah was leaning forward against the spanking bench with his leg stretched on top of it giving Daniel a good view of his ass. He couldn’t help but notice and turned his eyes out of respect.

“Hello,” Daniel said as Ricky stood and turned to the blushing gazelle. “You are beautiful up on the silks.” he said, his voice gushing with awe. “I’ve never seen a performance just like it.”

It was Ricky’s turn to blush now, and he grinned, “Thank you.” He said. “I hope you’re okay if I’m taking it easy for a few, I’m starting to feel it.”

“If you need to bow out early, I will understand.”

“No, it’s okay. I can go for longer on the lyra, at least it’s not going to try to tear me in half.”

“It’s really that difficult?”

“It takes balance, muscle control, and having to manage the silks sometimes pulling you in two different directions.”

“I am surely in awe.” Daniel grabbed a chair and sat down. “I hope everything is going the way you hoped.”

“Oh, it’s a dream up there, above a real crowd.” He grinned, flashing his teeth. “It’s better than I imagined it would be.”

“I’m happy you love it. You’re practically beaming right now.”

“Yeah, I shouldn’t let it go to my head though. Pride before a fall, and all that.”

“Ah, yes.” Daniel said, thinking of his crucifix next to where the key to Steven’s collar hung.

“So, Daniel.” Ricky said, standing. “Is there a reason you wanted to see me?”

“I guess I wanted to congratulate you.” Daniel stood. “And to know you a little better. We’re going to be working together for now.”

“True, and this is a great place to perform.” Ricky offered his hand. “So, thank you.”

Daniel took the cheetah’s hand and reached around him for a hug.

Ricky hesitated, but then returned the embrace.

“So” the gazelle said as he pulled back. “You are still okay to go on for the rest of the night?”

“Oh, easily.” Ricky said. “I’ll be sticking to the lowest stress poses, mostly. It’ll be a snap.”

“Good.” Daniel grinned and turned to open the door.

“Oh, and Daniel?” Ricky said before the gazelle could leave.

Daniel turned to the cheetah.

“Thank you. Again. For everything.”

***

Ricky’s final performance for the night was flawless. His poses were divine and his control and execution were as good as Daniel thought they could be. He admired the way Ricky’s body could contort into various poses, weaving his limbs around the steel hoop so artfully as to make him appear weightless.

And when the music came to a thrilling conclusion, the lights went down and applause rang out from the crowd, and Daniel joined in.

Ricky was slowly winched down by Steven with Gerald standing just out of sight behind the curtain as the lights slowly went up. Ricky was waiting for his chance to take a bow before the crowd. The last thing any performer does, and that’s to give the crowd one last memory of the event.

He was close to the ground when he reached out, to leap the last few inches down, and when he did, his ankle twisted.

He shrieked.

He fell.

The thick crash pad caught him, but the damage was done.

And there were gasps from the crowd and Steven came rushing forward, as did Gerald.

“No, It’s okay, I’m good.” The cheetah said, his face looking flush with embarrassment.

With Steven’s help, he moved to stand.

It wasn’t until he tried to place his weight on his twisted ankle that he inhaled and whimpered out a short “ow.”

“Here, let me help.” Steven urged and swept Ricky up into his arms.

The lion brought the cheetah to one of the booths that cleared at Daniel’s urging. The crowd gave them space quickly.

Ricky was placed down gently with his feet up on the bench and Steven had the injured ankle in his hands. He was carefully pulling up the fabric of the cheetah’s costume to inspect and what was seen was not pretty.

The flesh was reddened underneath and there was swelling. And when Steven gingerly touched it, Ricky flinched.

“We need to get you to a hospital.” Daniel said.

“Aw man, and I was so close too.” Ricky chuckled through the pain.

“You were amazing up there.” Steven said.

Ricky shrugged, then when Carlos came up with a towel wrapped around some ice to pass to Steven, the lion placed it against the injury carefully. Ricky winced.

“Thanks.” The cheetah said. “It’s probably not as bad as it looks.” He said, hoping for the best.

“Well, regardless, when you speak to a doctor, be sure to have them get the right paperwork for workers comp.” Daniel said, worry leaving its trail upon his brow.

“I’m going to be so out of shape after this.” Ricky whined. “First vacation I’ll have had in a while and I won’t be able to dance.”

“I’m sure you’ll make a swift recovery” Steven said as he gently laid Ricky’s ankle down on the bench.

“you’ll bounce back in no time.” Carlos said.

“I’ve made the call, ambulance will be here in ten.” Dimitri said as he came up to the growing crowd.

“Please, some space” Daniel reminded the crowd. “Thank you.” He smiled, doing his best to keep the concern in his mind from taking over. This was the first real performance at the club, it ended so poorly, and Ricky? His injury could end his career.

He was certain Ricky was not taking it well.

Ricky did seem calm, though now carefully holding the ice against his ankle.

Dimitri and Carlos were also politely asking a few party goers to not take photos out of respect, but a few snaps were heard.

It was an utter disaster. People would certainly be talking about the party, but for all the wrong reasons. This was to be Ricky’s big moment and now all they’re likely to talk about is his fall.

Daniel’s heart stewed on the fears of what would happen to the cheetah laying there trying hard not to cry. But he could do nothing more but wait for the paramedics. They arrived sooner than anticipated and were guided in by Brutus who expertly cleared a path.

Ricky was guided on to the gurney by the medic, a slim wolverine, and was laying there with Steven close by.

Steven was recounting to the medic what had led up to the accident and as the wolverine was inspecting the wound, he confirmed the fear. “Could be a sprain or a break. An x-ray is going to be needed to know for sure.” He said. Steven nodded, deferring to their expertise.

Steven stepped Closer to Ricky while the medic was getting Ricky ready to go when the lion heard the cheetah say “Steven?”

He turned his head and before he could react Ricky’s hand was reaching up, grasping for his mane, and pulled the lion in for a kiss.

Steven appeared shocked for a second, then jerked back sharply to a snapping sound.

Ricky’s hand pulled back, the hand that had grasped at the lion’s chest fur was holding something shiny.

Daniel saw it. His eyes widened. His breath caught in his throat and his heart sank into his stomach. He brought his hand to his mouth in shock as Steven was breathing heavier, his hands now clasped against his now naked neck.

Ricky looked at what lay in his hands.

He was holding a gold heart-shaped lock on a chain that had snapped.

“Oh.” He said, his face falling into a rictus of worry. Then he looked at Steven, seeing the aghast look on his face, and then the panic on Daniel’s, and said “I’m sorry.”

He handed Steven the chain and the medic wheeled him out.

Daniel went up to Steven the moment the ambulance was gone. “Are you okay?”

“I’m.” Steven paused, “I’m not sure right now.”

“It will be okay.” Daniel promised. “It can be fixed, love.” He tried to keep his voice as calm and collected as he could, given the situation. His lover had lost the symbol of their devotion to a stolen kiss.

A violation of boundaries had occurred.

But Steven was not trembling. And as Daniel brought him into his embrace, his breathing became regular and calmer.

Still, he protested. “I mean. But he…” he brought the chain that his queen had given him up in his hands.

“It’s fine.” Daniel soothed the lion. “It’s just a symbol. We can get it repaired. And you saw his face when he saw it. He knows what he did.”

“I shouldn’t have been so nice to him.”

“Are you listening to yourself, Steven?” Daniel exclaimed. He leaned his forehead against the lion’s.

“But it’s no longer perfect. I was hoping it would be perfect, forever.” Steven urged his lover. Even though it sounded childish, it was an honesty that he was glad to hear.

“I know. And in a way I did as well. But rarely is life like that,” Daniel said as he touched his lover’s chin, bringing his muzzle up to look at him in the eye. “You handled it tremendously well. I am proud of you.”

Steven sighed. “Your claim to me—”

“I will have the chain repaired. And as for my claim to you” Daniel slid his fingers down to trace a circle over Steven’s heart. “My claim to you remains.”

Steven purred.

“Besides, my pet. It wasn’t you that kissed him. He kissed you.” Daniel stroked the side of Steven’s head. “I will be having a word with him.”

“Is he getting fired?” Steven brow was furrowed but Daniel assuaged his pet’s fears with a gentle shake of his head.

“Well, he did kiss you so I’ll make sure he remembers boundaries, but otherwise I want to see him dancing in the cages as soon as he is ready.”

Steven smiles. “Thank you.”

Daniel’s phone started to ring.

Daniel sighed. “Of course.” He gritted his teeth and inhaled. “You know I have to take this.”

“I know.” Steven smiled and reached for his lover’s free hand as the gazelle stood to bring the phone up to his ear.

“Hi mum, it’s me. Your son.” Daniel said, a slight musical lilt on his voice.

“Hello Danny!” his mother’s warm voice came through from the other end. “I haven’t heard from you in a while and I didn’t want you to forget me again.”

“Of course I haven’t forgotten you, mum.”

“Well, anyway, Beatrice’s ultrasound came back and—”

“Please no. Don’t tell me. You promised you wouldn’t say.”

“Oh… well, if that’s the case, never mind.” She’s huffed into the phone.

“No, I’m happy for her, and you. I’m sure you are overjoyed and I am glad to hear of it.” Daniel looked into Steven’s eyes as he stroked his lover’s hand in his. “I assume the baby is healthy?”

“Oh yes. And she kicks like a mule too.”

“Mother!”

“What?!”

“You said you wouldn’t tell.”

“Oh, well, in any case, you know now, they’re going to name her Mathilda.”

Daniel sighed and rolled his eyes. “That is quite… the name.”

“Yes. After her great aunt Mathilda. You remember her, don’t you?”

“Yes mum.” He mouthed ‘who?’ to Steven.

His mother sighs. “Well, I wanted to call you to see how you were doing.”

“I’m doing fine, mum.”

“Are you still living with that…” Daniel could feel her eyes narrowing over the call. Her voice became pointed and jabbed at Daniel with each staccato. “With him?”

“Yes. Mum, yes. I am.” Daniel’s stomach was threatening to revolt on him and his hand felt a slight tremble.

“Well, one of these days you will open your heart to him. He will relieve you of this perversion. I pray for it every mass.”

“You clearly don’t understand the book you’re referencing.”

Her voice responded sharply “And what does the book say about you being a dirty little fa—”

“I’m sorry mum but I will not let you speak to me like this.” Daniel interrupted, his voice wavering, but firm.

“You?!”

“Sorry, mum, but I must go. I have a business to run.” His voice was absent of any warmth in that moment, though his heart was screaming from inside his chest to run, to hide, to do anything other than stand there.

Daniel ended the call and sighed deeply, his eyes wide and his hands shaking.

“Daniel.” Steven said and Daniel turned to look his lover in the eyes. Steven’s smile was wide and warm. “I’m proud of you.”

“Thank you,” he said, his voice robbed of all trace of the confidence he showed previously. His eyes welled up. “That was… difficult.”

“But you did it.”

Daniel let out an unsure laugh. “I did, didn’t I.”

Steven took this opportunity to reach around and pull Daniel into a warm embrace.

Daniels eyes took that moment as their cue to let the tears they were holding in to come tumbling down the gazelle’s striped face to land into the mane of his lover.

Daniel was being held by his lover. His pet. He was trembling slightly in his core. A whisper of the fortitude he called on to stand his ground all that was left. He was glad to be in the arms of his lover in that moment, though he was still a little shaken.

Steven was purring, and the sound of it kept Daniel rooted.

Eventually when their embrace parted, Brutus interrupted “Daniel, we’re okay to close up if you want to head home early.”

“Yeah, we’re good here.” Dimitri said.

“I’ll be fine.” Daniel said, wiping an eye with his palm. The emotions of the call and how it ended still raw in his mind. “I just need some fresh air I think.”

So he went outside, his mind brimming while he had to navigate a few stragglers whom were standing around after hours, waiting for their ride home or having a smoke like Daniel was about to.

Daniel hadn’t noticed that Steven followed him outside.

Daniel had the cigarette in his hands and lit in a few moments, then as he exhaled the smoke out, he saw the lion was near.

“Daniel” Steven starts.

“Yes, love?” Daniel returned, exhaling the smoke from his lungs.

“I was hoping that this would be under better circumstances.” Steven paused, a look of concern crossing his brow briefly. “I mean, with everything, I wanted to do this in better spirits.” There was a glint in his auburn eyes.

“What do you mean?” Daniel was growing fearful of what could be asked. He didn’t necessarily like not knowing where he stood but he kept that in check as it was Steven saying these things.

“I wanted to…” Steven fumbled with something in his pocket. “Even though Ricky got hurt, and even though he kissed me, I wanted this to be the last thing that happened tonight.”

“The last thing? Steven, what do you mean?”

“It’s better that I show you.” Steven blushed and finally managed to bring something out of his pocket.

It was a small black velvet box.

“Steven, what are you doing?” Daniel was starting to get nervous, spying a few curious eyes now watching the display, anticipating what the lion wanted to say as much as Daniel did.

“My queen. Daniel.” He said as he took a knee in front of his lover. “You have been the best thing in my life in a very long time.” He smiled as he reached up with the box.

“Steven?” Daniel gasped. All the moments in their past, all coalescing in his mind in this moment to be rendered silent as he anticipated what he was seeing in front of him.

Steven looked up at Daniel. “And you’ve helped me, stood by me, through so much already.”

Steven opened the small velvet box and showed his lover the gold ring inside.

“Daniel, will you do me the greatest of honors and be my husband?”

Daniel was speechless. A rare response from the gazelle that usually knew what to say.

“I mean…” Steven started to hesitate. “If you’re not ready I can—”

Daniel dove forward and planted a deep and heady kiss on Steven’s lips. Steven initially was surprised, then began to kiss back in equal earnestness.

When Daniel and Steven’s kiss ended, both of them breathless, Daniel whispered, then spoke clearer “yes.”

“Yes?” Steven asked, his eyes beginning to water.

“Yes, Steven. Yes. I do. I mean, I will. Yes!”

Steven stood and wrapped his arms around his lover. His tears flowed. Daniel’s eyes also lost their fight against remaining calm and he started crying into the arms of his lover.

Daniel’s world was spinning in that moment. A heady rush of emotions, all at once, all crashing at him with the sole intent of raising him up like a boat is raised by the tide.

Were he not moored in the arms of his lover, no, his now fiancee, he would have wanted to shout. Instead he lavished his pet with kiss after kiss after kiss, unashamed in front of the crowd of onlookers gasping and hooting in support.

When the dizziness of the moment passed, Daniel was left with Steven in the center of a clearing, not caring a bit that their proposal was now being recorded.

‘Let them watch’ he thought, and went in for one more kiss, a hand grasping at the lion’s cheek, stroking it gently.

Steven’s purr was loud in Daniel’s ears, and audible to everyone close. Hearing it only made Daniel love his partner even more, knowing what it meant to know where it came from, and what it represented.

It had been two weeks at the club without Ricky. The sales and donations from the party were more than enough to cover the rent for the charity, and as such, Steven and Daniel were both thrilled to hear it. However, there was a certain dimness in the atmosphere despite the promise of a marriage on the horizon. It was a lacking that was easy to figure out why it was present, but nobody wanted to say it.

The club was just about to open its doors for the night on a warm July evening. The sun was still high in the sky, though the shadows it cast were starting to grow longer.

Ricky came in on crutches wearing a bandage on his ankle while Carlos was finishing up the last-minute stock checks, and Daniel was there with his clipboard.

“Daniel,” Ricky said, making no hesitation. “About that night.”

Daniel placed the clipboard on the bar’s polished marble surface and turned to the cheetah in front of him. He wasn’t sure what to expect but he waited nonetheless.

“I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry.” Ricky hung his head and closed his eyes. “I thought everything was crashing down and Steven was so nice and I was scared I would miss out on my one shot.”

Steven came down from the office upstairs, and when Ricky saw, his eyes grew tight on the corners and tears welled up in his eyes.

“I didn’t know,” the cheetah cried softly. “And when I read on-line that there was a proposal, I figured it had to be you two and I didn’t think I had the right to come back.”

“Why did you?” Daniel asked, concern for the cheetah on his face.

“I guess I needed to make it right.” Ricky said, wiping his eyes. “I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I didn’t at least try.”

“That’s very mature of you.” Daniel said.

“Well, anyway, I’m also here to collect the rest of my stuff. Being wheeled out in an ambulance made getting my things a little tough.”

“Why? Do you think you’re fired?” Steven asked.

“I mean, I kissed you. You’re my boss, you’re in a relationship, and I kissed you. Why would you want me around after all that?”

“Ricky, you’re a skilled dancer, and when rehab is over, we expect to see you back on the job.” Steven said. “We need you.”

“Wait, so I’m not fired?”

“Of course not, love.” Daniel said. “Your performance elevated the place. I’m sure we can find more ways to put your unique talents to good use.”

“And you are talented,” Carlos interrupted. “I can imagine having you do your thing will garner a few more eyes than usual.”

“Well, I’m not ready yet.” Ricky gestured to his wrapped ankle. “It’s going to be a while before I’ll be back in the air, or in the cages.” He paused, looking downward. “I don’t know if I’ll have earned that privilege though.”

“Ricky, you made a mistake. You’re forgiven. There’s nothing more to worry about.” Daniel placed a hand on the cheetah’s shoulder. Ricky looked up at Daniel, and Daniel smiled.

“Besides, we talked about this and we both agreed that a mistake like that shouldn’t be the end of your dreams.” Steven said.

“And you did say that this was a great place to perform. Get some experience on your resume, or whatever acrobats use.” Daniel added.

“You all seem like it’s already decided.” Ricky sighed and looked down. “I’m… glad you feel this way about me, but I’m not sure I do. Not yet.”

Carlos came up to Ricky. “I hope you decide to come back.” He looked hopeful. “Even if it’s not to dance, it’d be nice to have you around.”

Ricky smiled as the two traded looks.

“Well, I do hate to change the subject but open is minutes away.” Daniel said. “You’re welcome to stay as long as you want.”

“I think I’d like that.” Ricky said, moving to take a seat at the bar near where Carlos was putting his apron on.

Beep-beep.

Beep-beep.

Beep-beepClick.

“Hi… Hi mum, it’s me, your son.”

“…”

“It’s me… Danny.”

“…”

“Mum, please say something.”

“…”

“I’m getting married this Friday.”

“…”

“Please mum, I sent the invitations and everything. You should have gotten it weeks ago.”

“…”

“Mum, please. I know we fight a lot but it would mean something if you were here.”

“…”

“Please don’t do this again, mum.”

“…”

“Please, I’m sorry. Say something.”

“…”

“Please mum—”

“… You’re sorry?”

Daniel sniffled. “I—”

“You’re sorry?!”

“…”

“How dare you.”

“Mum, please don’t do this to—”

“How dare you!”

“please—”

“ How dare you call yourself my son!”

Click.

Dial-tone.

Daniel sniffled.

Click.

It was mostly sunny that Friday when their marriage ceremony was to be held. A few scattered clouds, but otherwise a warm and pleasant late-august day.

The church where the ceremony was to be held was modestly decorated and in the nave were a handful of guests of various relations to both Steven and Daniel.

But Daniel was not there. He was in another room preparing for his big day.

“Are you ready?” Sandra, wearing a red taffeta dress, was biting at his fingernails.

Daniel nodded nervously. “This is our day.” He said, looking down at his cream tuxedo. “I’m going to be happy. For us, because I want it.”

The two were shocked out of their last minute preparation by a light rapping at the door.

“Who?” Sandra asked and then went to open the door a crack, looked though, and slammed it shut. “Oh no no no. You know the drill, it’s bad luck.”

“But I…” Steven’s voice came from behind the door.

“No buts.” Sandra said loudly. “You get your scrumptious ass out of here and wait. It’s less than five minutes.”

“Don’t worry, honey, I’ll make sure he behaves.” Mavis voice came from the other side of the door. “Come on, big guy.”

“Well, it’s not the typical ceremony but I will adhere to what traditions I can.”

“You know it’s not by the book. If it were, mum would be here.” Daniel said.

Sandra sighed and smiled, coming over to rest a hand on Daniel’s shoulder.

“It’s bad enough that she isn’t here.” Daniel said coldly, arms crossed in front of him.

“I know.” Sandra patted the gazelle’s shoulder. “It’s your big day.”

“I know we never really liked each other, but she’s still my mother.” Daniel went to sit. He slumped down on the leather upholstered chair. “At least I understand why Beatrice isn’t here, she’s too far along to fly.” Daniel sighed. “And Gemma? Well, I didn’t expect her to anyway. She never dared to cross mum.”

“I get it.” Sandra said. “And I know she’s been riding your ass all these years about getting married.”

“To a woman.” Daniel said coldly. His eyes went to the stained glass window that depicted a shepherd tending to his flock. “I sometimes wonder if I’m doing the wrong thing.”

“You best not be getting cold feet now, miss.” Sandra said with a smirk. “I paid damn good money for this hideous dress to make you look good and I am not wasting it on a no-show.”

“Oh, hell no. I’m getting married.” Daniel said firmly as he turned to look at the red fox in front of him. “That’s already decided.”

“So what’s wrong?”

“I was holding on to the hope that maybe she would come around.” Daniel rubbed his temple with his fingers. “To share at least one good thing with me, you know? Make that whole ‘family’ thing she’s so insistent on holding on to actually mean something.”

“Well, you know you have family here and we’re all rooting for you.”

The music from the organ started up.

“That’s our cue!” Sandra said. “Come on, honey. Let’s go!”

Daniel stood and smoothed down the front of his tuxedo then adjusted the corsage of wildflowers on his wrist. “I’m ready.”

Daniel was walked by Sandra to the doors to the nave where Steven was standing with Mavis beside him.

Steven took one look at Daniel and smiled wide, his auburn eyes beaming. “You look amazing” he said.

“And you are gorgeous.” Daniel smiled back, soaking up every detail of his lover’s appearance.

Sandra and Mavis made their way down the aisle first, scattering rose-petals along the floor as they went. Then they took their position next to the altar. That’s when the music shifted to a celebratory tune.

Daniel slipped his hand in Steven’s, and Steven squeezed gently.

Steven looked at Daniel and asked “Are you ready?”

Daniel swallowed trough a mouth that became dry, then nodded.

They both start walking down the aisle together, hands linked.

When they arrived at the altar, the priest was there in white vestments to greet them and offer blessings as they knelt.

When they stood, they turned to face one another.

The priest made the speech, talking for a few minutes about love and what it represents.

Then they traded their vows and slipped the rings on each other’s fingers.

Steven was first, and he held on to Daniel’s hand gently as he slid the ring on.

When it was Daniel’s turn, he took the ring and placed it on Steven’s finger, his eyes locked on the band until it was in place and he looked up to see Steven’s eyes getting moist at the corners.

And at the very end, after both of them said “I do” they kissed.

The ceremony ended with the two being declared husband and husband.

They needed to be brought back to the sanctuary to sign the proper forms and documents to make their marriage official in the eyes of the state, but they didn’t need any of that to show one another that they loved each other dearly.

It was now official. Daniel Reginald Anderson and Steven Walter Thompson were now married.

***

The reception was held in a park just a short walk from the church, where a small river passed through. The air was thick with moisture.

As most parties went, this one was rather usual. There was music, dancing, and festivities as everyone dined and drank and celebrated Daniel and Steven’s wedding.

And at the front, on display, were the newlyweds. Both were happy and there were many ringing of glasses and short speeches celebrating the two. Smiles were on their faces, and rarely were they not holding hands, or touching, or leaning into one another. It was as if they wanted to soak in every detail of the day so that their memories were forever emblazoned with it all.

As the party went on and as everyone had a few drinks in them, Steven eventually whispered to his husband. “I would like to speak to you privately.”

They excused themselves from the table to walk a short distance to a pedestrian bridge that crossed the river.

“Okay, we’re here. What is it you wanted to talk to me about?” Daniel asked Steven.

“My collar. May I please have the key?”

“I…” Daniel paused, unsure about what he was being asked. “I mean, sure.”

He fished out the silver chain that hung around his neck and grabbed the key that was threaded on the chain next to the silver crucifix he was wearing.

He handed the key to Steven.

When Steven held the key, he looked at it for a bit. His eyebrows were furrowed slightly as if he was thinking about something that Daniel didn’t want to consider.

Then Steven looked at Daniel, a smile breaking out on his face, and then he turned to face the water and threw the key into it.

It landed in the water in the middle of the river.

“Steven… I…” Daniel was stunned.

“Daniel, my queen, I want nothing more than to be with you. And I will always be there for you.”

“Steven… Are you sure this is what you want?”

“Yes.” Steven smiled, and brought Daniel’s face up to kiss him deeply, passionately. And when the kiss ended, they lazily made their way back to the reception as the skies decided to shower the two with a light drizzle of rain.