Chapter 1 – Found

Scott pulled the collar of his jacket up a bit and tucked his chin, trying to keep out the cold rain. It was rarely this nasty in Los Angeles, but this storm had been making life miserable for three days now. As he dug for his keys, the plastic grocery bag slipped from his half numb fingers. He watched as his orange rolled across the sidewalk and just past the side of the building. He cursed and almost decided to let it go it but he’d promised his mom he’d get one because of the nasty cold he was fighting. Besides, how much wetter could he get, anyway?

He made sure the other groceries were safe and took a few steps to the side, then turned and leaned down to grab the orange but it was instead lifted for him. His eyes slowly adjusted to the darker alley and he saw a small figure dressed all in black, sitting against the building. The big green eyes were staring at the orange he held in his small, trembling hand.

“What are you doing out here?” Scott asked.

“Can I have it?”

“If you need it, yes.” He dropped his hand and stepped back, his drug-fogged brain trying to figure out what to do. “Do you have somewhere to go?”

“If I did, I would not be out here. I hate the rain.” The small, playful voice was high, but not strained or sharp. He curled further into his hoodie if it was possible, his small fingers adjusting his hood around his face.

“Why are you out here?”

“My last owner was mean. I snuck away when he went to work.”

Owner? Was some scary dominant going to come around looking for his sub? TOO much INFORMATION!! “ Are you on drugs, or dangerous, or something?“ He certainly didn’t look like a threat.

A musical laugh escaped his lips. “No Sir. Do you want me to be?”

“Not particularly. Um, okay, look….. I live right around the corner. Do you want to come in and get dry, have some dinner?”

He jumped up gracefully. Even fully upright he was much shorter than Scott but he was used to that. “Yes please.”

“Wait, how old are you?” He tried to get a better look at his face but between the gloom, the rain, and the shadows, he couldn’t see much. “Are you underage? And what’s your name?”

“I am not a child” he answered, almost petulant. “I am 20. My name is Midge.”

“Okay, follow me.” He turned the corner and retrieved his groceries, then opened the foyer door and climbed the stairs to his small apartment. Once inside he put the groceries on the small countertop and turned to the small figure hunched near the door, still holding his orange like precious cargo. “So, Midge, let me find you some dry clothes.”

The stranger slid to the floor and sat, beginning to quickly peel the orange. He had just popped the first piece in his mouth when his ears picked up the sound of footsteps coming his way on the carpet.

Scott returned a moment later with sweats and a t-shirt, along with a sweater. “They’re going to be huge on you, but I have a dryer so just hand me yours and we’ll get them dry.”

Midge handed him his precious orange and took the bundle of clothes. He let his eyes wander, but he stood in place.

“Oh, here, bathroom’s on the right” he pointed. “Help yourself.”

Locking the door behind him, Midge grabbed a towel from the back of the door and crawled into the bathtub and pulled that curtain closed as well. He listened then, but Scott was still far away, probably in the kitchen. Slowly, he untied his hood and pulled it down, then unzipped his hoodie. He used the towel to dry his hair, then uselessly arranged it around his ears. He quickly dried his torso, not minding now that he hadn’t grabbed a shirt in his rush this morning.

He pulled the t-shirt Scott had given him on and caught it when it threatened to fall down below his waist. He tied a small knot so it wouldn’t get wet, then pulled off his pants, dried off, and pulled on the sweatpants. Thankfully they had a string so he tied it tightly and let the t-shirt fall down over them. He looked down and chuckled; he looked like a clown. The tee hung halfway to his knees and the pants were bunched up above his ankles. At least the shirt would help hide his bulges.

Now, what to do about his ears? The sweater Scott had given him would be warm but it didn’t have a hood. He didn’t want to put back on the one he had taken this morning but he couldn’t go out like this, either. He contemplated asking for a hat but then inspiration struck and he wrapped the towel around his head. He took a good look at himself in the full length mirror and then stepped out softly, his bare feet padding along the carpet towards the kitchen.

Scott spotted him and quickly tried desperately to hold in a laugh. The boy looked a MESS. The clothes were bad enough, being at least 2 sizes too big but the towel was just icing on the proverbial cake. He turned back to the stove, stirring the soup he was heating, but couldn’t wipe the grin off his face.

“I look silly, I know. I am sorry. But thank you for the clothes, I am much warmer.”

“No, I’m sorry. It’s fine, no problem. Oh, here” He reached out for the clothes Midge held in his hands but the small boy jerked backwards so quickly that Scott barely had time to register. Once he saw his face though, the obvious fear made him step back as well. “I was just going to take the clothes. I’ll put them in the dryer, okay?”

“Oh, sure. Thanks.” He grinned, then stepped forward and dumped the almost dripping load into Scott’s hands. “Do you need help?” He stretched his neck, trying to see the soup he could smell so well. Tomato, definitely. Vegetables, as well. It smelled delicious and he licked his lips.

“No, it’s all good. I’m going to take care of these and then I’ll make you a bowl. Why don’t you turn on the TV and find something? I’ll be right back.” He pulled back the curtain hiding the washer and dryer and dumped the sodden clothes in, turning it on. When he looked over to check on Midge, he was curled up on the couch, staring at the window.

Midge stared at the rain that was hitting the window almost horizontally. He was so, so glad to be out of it. This couch was the softest thing he’d sat or laid on in months, and Scott was being so nice to him. Now, if he could just hide his secret long enough for the rain to stop, maybe he’d have a chance …

Chapter 2 – Warm

Scott grabbed two plates and two bowls from the cupboard and some crackers.  Once the bowls were full and crackers and spoons nestled beside them on the plates, he carried them out to the living room and sat them on the coffee table.  “What would you like to drink?”

“Do you have milk?” Midge asked, hopeful.

“I don’t….. I don’t know.  Let me look.”  He reached into the fridge and pulled out the expired milk.  He opened it to pour it down the sink before catching a whiff and dumping it into the trash instead.  “Nope.  I have cream but that doesn’t help.  Sorry.”

“Cream would be great.”

“No, I mean, like for coffee.  I have water and a bottle of wine and I could make coffee, or tea, oh and a couple of  Red Bulls.”

“Oh, water is fine” Midge said, chastising himself.  Stupid, stupid.  People don’t drink cream. He slid onto the floor, kneeling in front of the table and picked up his spoon awkwardly.

Scott had sat down on the couch and balanced the plate in his lap.  He watched Midge with fascination.  He is a weird, weird guy.  Also adorable, and funny.  I wonder where he’s going to sleep tonight.  Definitely someone’s sub, who else would eat like that?

  Maybe he’s from some weird cult ?   “Look, I know this is awkward” he said, putting down his spoon “but, if you need somewhere to stay tonight, you can borrow my couch.”  He couldn’t believe he was offering to let a stranger sleep in his apartment but something told him it was the right thing to do.

“I….. I do not know.”  If he stayed, he would be used, and he really wanted one night to heal, and rest.   But Scott was feeding him, and being so nice that he had to do something for him as well, it was only right.  It was expected.  “I can sleep in your bed, I do not mind.”  He said after contemplating his options.  Scott seemed nice, maybe it would be okay.  It was always better for him to go willingly, he’d learned that the hard way.

“Oh, you don’t, do you?” Scott chuckled.  “Well I sort of mind sleeping on my couch – I don’t fit all that well.  It’s not bad though, I’ve crashed on it before after some late nights.  Sure beats the street.  I’ll get you a pillow and blankets later.”

Midge was confused but he focused on his crackers, nibbling them in between bites of soup.  He watched as Scott grabbed the remote and watched him press the buttons, trying to memorize the pattern.  He knew that most people seemed to have no trouble with those things, but he’d never been able to figure them out beyond getting lucky every now and then.

“What do you like?”

“I like the cartoons.”

“Deal.”  He flipped until he found Adventure Time and turned the volume down low enough that they could talk.

Midge relaxed, thankful that Scott didn’t like his TV as loud as most.

“Okay, I hate to ask, but can you take the towel off?  I really can’t even think straight looking at that crazy thing.  It’s like the Leaning tower of Pisa, or… I don’t know, whipped cream.”

“I can not until my clothes are dry.”  He was so, so bad at this.  He was always found out.  It wasn’t his fault though, he was bad at lying.

“Sometimes you don’t make any sense, Midge.  Is that really your name?  Midge what?”

“It is the only name I have.”

Scott stood and took his plate to the kitchen, then came back and looked down at Midge’s, still half full.  “Want something different?”

“No, no, it is good.  Can I keep it, please?”  He still held one cracker in his hand and he put the other protectively around his plate, pulling it towards his chest.

“Wow.  Yeah, of course.  But if you don’t like it, I have other food.  Didn’t mean to rush you.”  He sat back down and turned his head towards the TV, trying to keep one eye on Midge.  He couldn’t tell how thin he was, under his clothes.  The boy acted like he was starving on one hand but also ate the slowest he’d ever seen.

“I can see you looking at me.  Why are you hiding it?  Are you mad that I am going slow?  I am not trying to be a problem.” he almost whispered.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about half the time, Midge.  I’m sorry I was staring.  I was trying to not be rude, but obviously failed.  You’re not a problem.  Take your time.”  He was really, really rethinking the whole ‘letting this guy have access to my apartment all night’ thing, but he’d already offered.  “Hey, do you like ice cream?” he asked, his scratchy throat reminding him that he’d bought some earlier for this exact reason.

“I LOVE ice cream!” Midge said, jumping up. “What do I have to do?”

“Do?  Um just finish your dinner, if you want any more, and then I’ll get us some.  I’ll grab blankets and a pillow for you while you eat.”  He stood and walked into the hallway, returning with a pile that he placed next to the couch.  “I’m going to check your clothes so you can get that turban off your head.”  He came back with the black hoodie and handed it to Midge.  “The jeans are still wet, but maybe this will help?”

Midge grabbed the shirt gratefully and dashed to the bathroom.  He took off the sweater and towel and arranged his hair, then put the hood up and tied the strings.  He checked everything in the mirror before heading out.  When he got to the living room, Scott was bringing back two huge bowls filled with ice cream.  “Do I get one?” he asked, bouncing slightly on the balls of his feet.

“Of course, I’m not THAT big of a pig.”  He sat down on the couch and put one of the bowls down in front of him, then gasped as Midge launched over the back of the couch and landed on the cushion next to him.  “Okay then….”  He bit back his curiosity as Midge let his bowl sit, his attention seemingly focused on the TV.  When he finished with snack, he stood but this time he knew to ask first.  “Finished?”

“You want the bowl?  Okay, I understand.”  He picked it up but instead of handing it to Scott, he tipped it back and drank the now mostly melted ice cream straight from the bowl.  When he finished, he licked his lips.  “Thank you so much.”

Scott reached out and took the offered bowl, shaking his head the whole way to the kitchen.  What the HELL have I gotten myself into?

Chapter 3 – Reveal

Scott loaded the dishwasher, trying to get his brain to shut up.  This was the weirdest night he’d had in a very long time, hell, maybe ever, and it was all because of that little ‘Midge’ on his couch.  He glanced over to see him wrapping up in the blankets and laying down.  He had a beautiful smile, he had to admit.  When he heard a knock at the door he peeked through the hole and opened it gladly.  “Kelly!”

        “Hey sweetie, Olaf and I are out for a walk now that the rain is finally down to just a drizzle.  Mind if we come in and warm up before the trek home?”

“Of course not!”  He leaned down and scratched the puppy behind his ears, them moved back to let them in.  “I have a guest, his name is Midge.  Midge, this is…..” he turned and stopped mid sentence because the couch was empty.  The pillow and one of the blankets remained, but there was no sign of him.  “I guess he’s in the bathroom or something.  While I can, um, he’s a little weird” he whispered. “If I end up dead tomorrow, his name is Midge.  I want you to meet him just in case I get robbed or drugged or something.”

        “What!!??? Why is this guy in your apartment if you’re worried?” she asked, obviously concerned.

“I’m not really that worried, and he needed a place.  I don’t know, it’s a weird situation.”

        “Scott, this does not sound good.”

“Just give him a minute, and you can meet him.  I’m pretty sure he’s harmless, he’s just odd.”

“I am not coming out there!” came the small shout from the bathroom.

        “How did he HEAR us?” Kelly asked.  “You really need to move if your walls are that thin.”

“Why not?  I want you to meet a friend of mine” Scott shouted back.

“You do not have to yell” Midge replied.  “I do not like dogs.  Nope.  Never coming out.  Hate them.  Sorry.”

“He’s just a puppy Midge, and he’s friendly, I promise” Scott said, walking towards the bathroom door.

“No, no, please do not make me.  Please?!”

“Okay, okay, no problem.  Just give us another minute.”

“I will wait, I do not mind” Midge said, the relief in his voice obvious.

        “Okay Scott, I guess Olaf and I will go.  But, you need to call me later and first thing in the morning, okay?  Get a picture of him and send it to me, too.  Alright?”

“That’s a good idea, I will.”  He walked with her back to the door and gave Olaf one last pat.  “Be careful.”  He closed the door behind him and turned to find Midge resettled on the couch.

“Sorry if I made a problem for you.  Do you want me to go?”

“Nope.  Just move over unless you want me sitting on you.”  He stole a bit of Midge’s blanket and settled in.

“You are really nice.  Your couch is soft and the food was great.  Thank you.”

“You’re welcome Midge.”  He turned his head when he felt the blanket being tugged lightly.  “Do you need anything else?  Is there something I can do?”

“I am really tired, so I guess I would like to pay you now, if that is okay?”  He rolled forward onto his arms and rested his hands on Scott’s thigh.  Perhaps, he thought, he could get away with a small payment for the night, since he was offering.  This was by far his favorite way of earning favors.  He reached for his zipper but yanked back when Scott gripped his wrist.

“What are you doing Midge?  You don’t… you don’t owe me anything for the dinner, okay?”

“But…. the food and your soft couch.  I was so cold.  I want to thank you, it is only right.”

“You DID thank me.  Several times as a matter of fact.  Are you a prostitute?  Did you run away from your pimp or something?”  He gripped Midge’s shoulders gently to hold him away, silently begging him to make eye contact.  It made more than a little sense, although it didn’t answer all his questions.

“I….. not really.  I mean, not…… I am sorry.”

“Talk to me, please?  You’re safe here, I promise.  Just talk to me.”

Midge went through the mental gymnastics he always did when put in this position.  He so rarely got the chance to actually ‘tell’ someone that he wasn’t very good at it, and didn’t know if he should.  It almost always ended badly, but something made him trust Scott.  He smelled good, his energy was good, he was kind, but could he be trusted? “I am a Neko” he whispered.

“A Neko?  What’s a neko?”

“I…… I am not human.”

“Oh” Scott rolled his eyes and tried not to laugh.  “Okay.  Are you an alien, or…?”

“No, just a Neko.”

“Which is… what, exactly?”

“I am part cat.”

“Part cat.  Sure.  Okay.  I’ve heard weirder, although it usually involves several rounds of shots or drugs.  That explains not liking Olaf then.  So, do you need a litterbox?” he joked.

“No, of course not.”

“Of course not.” Scott mocked.  “Sorry, but dude, you are WEIRD.  It’s all good though, but I think I’ll go to bed now.”  He stood up and rearranged the blanket over Midge.  “Sleep well.”  He took out his phone and pointed it at Midge.  “Smile.”

“Tell Kelly hi, and sorry about her dog.”

“How did you know it was for Kit?  Oh, you and your crazy hearing.  That’s a cat thing too, huh?”

“Yes” he sighed.  This had never happened before.  He could prove it, obviously, but somehow it felt better that Scott didn’t believe him.  Maybe, maybe, this was better.  It was only one night, and it seemed that he was safe for the time being.  “Goodnight Scott.”

“Night”  He made his way into his room and locked the door behind him.  He sent the picture off to Kelly and sent her a message about Midge’s confession before stripping down and crawling into bed.  He wondered if he should have been more supportive of the boy’s delusions, since he could burn the place down or something if he was pissed off.  That thought spurred a train of very bad thoughts which kept him up until almost dawn.  Every time he went out to check on things and use the bathroom, Midge was curled up on the couch in a ball, as nonthreatening as, well, a newborn kitten.

Chapter 4 – Belief

Midge couldn’t remember the last time he had slept so well.  He woke a few times during the night when he heard Scott walking through the house but the man never came for him or asked him for anything so Midge drifted back seamlessly to neverland.  When he awoke early that morning he stretched lazily, working out the kinks in his knees and back.

Once he was satisfied that he was the only one stirring, he slowly padded to the kitchen.  He hated to take more of Scott’s food but he was hungry and he had been told to help himself.  He opened every drawer and every cabinet, peeking into boxes and shaking cans, feeling their weight in his hands and nibbling from most of the open containers.  He smelled each of the condiments in the fridge and stole a drink of cream from the carton.

Afterwards he went to the bathroom, using a washcloth to wipe himself down and using the new toothbrush Scott had left for him.  He played with the lights and ran his hands over the towels and rug.  Finally, before dressing, he examined the bruises and wounds sprinkled over his body.  The burn around his neck from his previous collar had faded mostly, only one side near the back still hurt.  His wrists were still raw and his hips bruised.  Other, more delicate areas were still aching, but nothing seemed to be getting worse.  Finally, he dressed, putting on his jeans and the black hoodie from last night.  He considered keeping Scott’s t-shirt, but he had already taken so much.

Back in the living room he folded up his blankets neatly and made a pile on the floor, just where Scott had left them last night.  He looked out each of the windows, watching people and cars moving below.  He told himself over and over that he needed to leave but instead his eyes went to the remote.  Grabbing it, he sat down and pressed a few buttons, not at all surprised when nothing happened right away.

A moment later when he heard a knock at the door, he panicked, thinking he had done something wrong.  That smell though, it was the dog again.  He leapt off the couch and fled towards the bathroom just as Scott emerged from his room and headed down the hall, blocking the door.  He veered to the side, ran into Scott’s room and buried himself under the blankets.

Scott looked left, then back into his bedroom, then back at the front door.  He padded over and opened the door once he saw that it was Kelly.

        “Are you okay??!!” she asked

“I’m fine, just woke up.  Um, can you hold on?  He just flew into my room so I should check on him.”

        “And your valuables.  I’m going to make coffee.”  She slipped out of her jacket, laying it over the chair, and went to work filling the coffee pot.

“Midge?” Scott asked softly, walking into his room.

“I am sorry, I tried to go in the bathroom but you were, and the dog was, the door” he mumbled quickly.

“Olaf’s not here.  It’s just Kelly.”

“I smelled him” he said, refusing to come out.

“I promise it’s just her.  Come see.”  He pulled blankets to the side, trying to uncover Midge’s face, or at least figure out which end was where.

Midge listened but couldn’t hear a dog, and the scent wasn’t as strong as it should have been if the beast was in the apartment.  Slowly he turned and tunneled his way back out of the blankets.

Scott’s jaw dropped open and his mouth formed a huge ‘O’.  Midge looked up at him with those huge green eyes but it was his ears that had captivated Scott’s attention.  Somehow, during his burrowing, his hood had gotten pushed back and two cat ears stood at attention, one twitching to the left.  “You……. are those real?”

“Of course they are real.”

“Can I touch them?  I mean, to see if they’re real.  They can’t be real.  They’re really cool though.”

“Of course.  Whatever you would like.”  He tilted his head forward stiffly, he’d had too many people try to pull his ears off to not know what was coming.

Scott ran one fingertip along the edge of the twitching ear, feeling it flutter against him.  He ran his finger between them looking for a wire, or headband, or anything to explain how these were attached.  Finally he blew into one lightly, chuckling as Midge flinched and laughed.

“That tickles.”

“You have cat ears.”

“Yes.”

“Because you’re a Nero?”

“Neko.  Yes.”

“We have GOT to show Kelly!”

“No, please?  Do not tell her, please?”

Scott looked into his eyes, dark with desperation.  “I’m sorry, I told her last night.”

“No, you said I was odd and you were afraid I would drug you.”

“How did you…. damn those ears.  Sorry, I didn’t mean to be nasty.  I texted her when I went to bed.”

“Oh.  Can you tell her you were wrong?  Tell her I am crazy, it is believable, you said so yourself.”

Scott hated to lie and didn’t know if he could to Kit, especially not when he was so freaked out at the moment.  “I’ll do my best.  I’ll get rid of her and then we can go out for breakfast, okay?”

“I think I should leave.”

“No way.  Please, let me buy you a huge glass of milk and whatever you want to eat and then we can talk, okay?  I have GOT to know all about…. well, you.”

Midge tried to take a few deep breaths but he could feel the hair on the back of his neck standing up.  His tail was twitching, uncomfortable being contained.  He’d had lots of ‘talks’ and they never, ever ended well for him.

“Midge?  Are you okay?  It’s alright, really.  I promise.”

Inspiration struck.  Yes, he would go to breakfast and eat, since it might be the last meal he’d see for awhile.  It would be easy to sneak away from the restaurant, and it was always easier to blend in where there were more people.  “Okay, I will go.”

Chapter 5 – Ihop

Midge followed behind Scott out of the bedroom, dreading this meeting.  He could feel the energy radiating off the girl and it wasn’t friendly.  Scott had asked him to do it though and promised it would be okay, so he agreed to say hello.

Scott glanced back to see if Midge was actually coming with him.  Yesterday he had been freaked out by the fact that he walked so quietly but now it somehow seemed fitting.  Yes, Midge was there but he didn’t look happy about it.  “Hey, if you really don’t want to, it’s okay.”

“Really?”  His eyes brightened.

Scott wasn’t sure what this feeling in his chest was whenever the boy looked happy, but he was willing to piss off Kelly if it meant it might continue.  “Sure.  Go back to my room or wherever you want.”  And like a flash, Midge had ducked back into his bedroom and disappeared.  He sighed, then turned the corner.  “Hey Kit Kat.”

        “Hi.”  She handed him a steaming cup of coffee.  “Wasn’t sure what Midge would want….” she said, looking around.  “Where is he?”

“He’s nervous.  Can you give him a few days?”

        “What do you  mean ‘a few days’?  He’s staying?  Like here, with you?  The boy is crazy, you said so yourself.”

“No, he’s…” and he trailed off, remembering that he was supposed to try to keep Midge’s secret and that he could probably hear every word.  “He just needs a friend and a place to crash.  It’ll be fine, promise.”

        “Maybe he did slip you something.  It’s like some kind of ‘Don’t notice I’m crazy’ drug.”  She put down her cup and gripped Scott’s arms, making sure she had his full attention.  “If this were ME, you would call the police.”

“Don’t say that, you’ll scare him.  No one’s calling anyone, okay?  We’re going to go get breakfast and talk and then I’ll see you at rehearsal this afternoon.”

        “And you’re going to just leave him here for hours, alone?  Or what, drop him off at the mall?”

“He could probably use a few things.”

        “What is WRONG with you?  Seriously, I want to meet him.  Now.”  She tapped her foot and put on her ‘I’m not leaving’ face.

“Soon, okay?  Just not today.”  He picked up her jacket, noticing the white hairs on one side where Olaf had jumped up.  “Thanks for worrying Kakepop, but it’s fine.  Really.  I’ll see you this afternoon.”

        “Fine Mr. Stubborn.  But if something happens to you, I will be PISSED.  You hear me?  Don’t be stupid.”  She turned and opened the front door, then sent off a parting “Bye Midge” as she left.

“Midge?” he called quietly.  He stepped into his shoes and called for him again.

“I am right here” he answered from right behind his shoulder.

Scott jumped, spooked.  “You scared me.  You’re so quiet.”

“I can try to be louder but I always forget after awhile.  I am sorry.”

“It’s fine.  No worries.” He handed Midge his shoes, realizing they looked way too big.  “Are these yours?”

“I…. I borrowed them.  It was cold and I did not have any.”

“I guess we’ll need to get you some that fit.  You don’t have anything, do you?  Those clothes aren’t yours either, although they fit a lot better than mine do.”

“I do not need much, I do not usually wear clothes.”

“You… oh, cat thing, right?  Um, well you can’t walk around naked.  I draw a line, and people WILL call the cops then.”

“Oh, I never go out.  I mean, I have been out a lot the past month but when I am owned I almost never go.  My last master was very kind though and he took me to a movie theatre once, and we went places sometimes.  The movie was great” he said, a huge smile spreading across his face at the memory.

“I really want to know all about whatever the hell you’re talking about, but let’s do food first, okay?  I’m STARVED and I don’t do well when I’m hungry.”

Midge slipped into the bathroom and reappeared a moment later.  “I think I am ready.  But, Scott, I am not sure what to do.”

“About what?”

“I have never… I mean what if people see me?  It is daytime….. “  He desperately wanted to go, he was curious beyond measure, but he was also wary.

“You look fine and I’ll help you, okay?”

He took a deep breath, then looked up.  When Scott smiled and went out the door, he followed a step behind.  He balked when Scott wanted him to sit in the front passenger seat but did as he was told, and even managed to get the seatbelt on without too much fussing.  Once the car was in motion, he stared out the window taking in the sights.  The drive was much shorter than he would have liked, he would have happily driven around the city all day.

“I HOP, breakfast place of champions” Scott said, getting out of the car.  He went over and opened Midge’s door, then took his small hand in his.  “Just stay with me, it’ll  be fine.”  He looked him over again, making sure his ears weren’t visible, then led him in and got them a table.

        “What can I get you boys?” the waitress asked, pencil poised.

Scott quickly rattled off his order and looked at Midge, who was wide-eyed and petrified behind his menu.  “Want the same as me?”  At the quick nod he asked her to double it, then remembered to add in a large glass of milk.

“Thank you” Midge answered softly after she had gone.

“No problem, didn’t mean to put you on the spot.  I didn’t think.  Don’t worry though, everything’s fine.”  When the waitress returned with the coffees and milk, he watched as Midge drank the glass down quickly, his eyes lighting up.  “Want another one?”

“Can I?  Really?”

“Sure, why not?”  He signalled the waitress for a refill and then put the cream and sugar in his coffee.  By the time he was finished, she had delivered the second glass.

Midge looked at the small bowl of creamers, then at his glass.  Quickly he snuck his hand out, grabbing the entire bowl and pulling it into his lap.

Scott watched, amused, as Midge tried to secretly dump creamer after creamer into his milk.  He was such a mix of, well, man and cat but the end result was something he could only describe as childish.  When their plates were delivered he watched Midge’s face register the shock of the amount of food in front of them.  “You don’t have to eat it all, just what you want.”

He reached a hand out and grabbed a sausage, sticking the whole thing in his mouth at once.  It wasn’t easy to eat in one piece, but his expert tongue soon manuevered it around.

“Use your fork and knife, Midge.  Okay?”

His head shot up as he swallowed the last bit.  “Yes Sir, I am sorry.”  He ate his other sausage, then tried to cut his bacon with his knife.

“No, that you can eat with your hands.” Scott offered.

Midge just sighed and picked it up.  “So confusing.”  He bit into it, savoring the first bite, then practically inhaled the remaining pieces.  Once all the meat on his plate was gone, he looked over at Scott’s plate to see what he was eating, and how.

Scott had never had so much fun at breakfast.  He was fascinated with Midge and could watch him all day.  Even watching him pour syrup was fun, he’d obviously never seen the type of bottle they used here.  He figured it out quickly though, and the grin on his face when the first dribble of syrup hit his french toast was adorable.  Once they were both stuffed, he paid the bill and led them towards the car.

Midge knew this was his chance.  He was in the parking lot and there were lots of buildings around.  It was daytime though, and he had been taught from a very young age that it was the most dangerous time for him to be out.  He knew he shouldn’t go home with Scott, to have their ‘talk’ but he seemed so nice.  Maybe he could get a nap in, and dinner and then sneak out later tonight.

Chapter 6 – Talking

“Can I take off my clothes now?” Midge asked, following Scott into the living room.

“Um, I’d rather you didn’t. I mean, you can take off the hood of course but pants are non-negotiable.”

“Oh” His expressive face fell without him even realizing it. “Whatever you like.”

“Are they uncomfortable? You could have my sweats back if they fit better.” He’d never met someone so skittish who was afraid of being touched yet somehow wanted to be naked all the time. Of course, he’d never met a Nelo, Neko, whatever, either.

“Yes, can I? They feel much better. My tail is so cramped.” It twitched in response, hating the angle it bent in order to fit down the leg of his jeans.

“You…… wait, you have a TAIL!!???”

Midge frowned and squinted. “Of course I have a… Oh, you did not know. Yes, I have a tail.”

“Is that a euphemism?” When Midge looked at him, confused, Scott rubbed his hands over his chin, thinking. “And that’s why you don’t want to wear pants?”

“Yes.”

“Processing, hold on a minute. Okay, wait here.” He disappeared into his room for an old pair of sweats. When he returned, he grabbed the scissors out of the drawer and handed everything to Midge. “You can cut them and make a hole for your tail. Will that work?”

“I do not want to ruin your pants Sir.”

“Please don’t call me that, I’m just Scott, and I don’t mind. They don’t even fit anymore, they’re too small so maybe they’ll fit you better. I should have thought about them last night but I just grabbed the first pair I found. Go ahead.”

Midge walked cautiously into the bathroom. He was fairly certain he understood, but maybe it was a test? No, Scott seemed genuine and the man was amazingly easy, so far, for him to read. He gently worked his way out of the jeans and let his tail free for the first time in hours. Then he pulled the pants on, pinched the fabric where he thought the hole would be best, and took them off to cut. When he pulled them back on he was warm and comfortable, and had a full belly. It was a very good day.

Scott tried not to appear too anxious when Midge opened the door, but he could NOT wait to see if he really had a tail. His brain screamed that he was the crazy one and this boy was nothing but a fraud, but his heart and his eyes were tempted to believe him. “Come here” he said. When Midge stopped in front of him he took the scissors from him and then knelt down on the floor and trimmed the pants so they wouldn’t drag on the floor. They were still too big but it was a vast improvement and would hopefully work for today. “So, can I see it?”

Midge whipped his tail to the side, then shyly brought it back behind him.

“It moves” he said, amazed.

“Of course it moves. All of me moves. Does not all of you move? You are strange.”

“I? ME?” He laughed then, overcome with the craziness. “You have a TAIL and I’m the weird one?”

“I am sorry Sir, Scott, I did not mean to be sassy.”

“I like you sassy, there’s nothing to apologize for. So can we talk?”

“Whatever you would like. Where should I sit?”

“Wherever you want. I’m taking over half of the couch.” He sat then, watching Midge’s eyes dart from floor, to couch, to chair. “It doesn’t matter, really.”

Midge hated the fact that he was starting to think of Scott as his master. He was having a hard time not dropping into service mode. The problem was, he seemed to prefer him to behave as Trent had, but all his other owners had been much more strict and he didn’t want to do the wrong thing. So far, Scott had been kind and he didn’t want to make him angry. He decided to be brave and gently sat on the far end of the couch, letting his tail drape over the arm.

Every question Scott had disappeared. He watched Midge’s tail, enraptured. It was flesh toned, long and sleek. At the end was a smattering of black hair, or fur, whatever it should be called. The idea seemed gross but it wasn’t, it was beautiful. He watched it swinging lazily, then laughed out loud when Midge used it to push a piece of hair out of his eye. “You can do anything with it?”

“No, it is not like my fingers, it does not bend in the same ways. I can not grip things with it, but I can move it. You have really never heard of a Neko before? I thought most humans knew, even if they did not believe it.”

“Can’t say I have. Um, so ears, and a tail. Anything else?”

“I do not know. Oh, my tongue is not as smooth as yours. My nails grow fast, I have to cut them almost every day. My eyes see well at night, much better than humans. I think that is everything except for sex. Would you like me to explain my areas of expertise?”

“We don’t need to talk about that. Okay, so HOW are you a Neko? Do you have a family? Were you born this way?”

“Of course. My entire family is Neko. I do not really have them any more though.”

“Why not?”

“Once I was sold, I no longer belong to them any more. I do not know where they are.”

“Sold?”

“Most Neko children are. I was lucky to have survived at all, being a boy. Girls are much more prized.”

“But who sold you? Your parents’ master?”

“No, my mother is free. She sold me.”

“But WHY?” Scott asked, shocked.

“To help care for my sisters until they are of age. It is the way things are, it is okay.” Midge answered without more than a tiny shred of sadness flitting across his face.

“No, it’s really not. So she sold you, and that’s why you call that guy your owner and master?”

“I do not think I have spoken of my first master, but yes, all my owners have asked me to call them master of course.” His eyes were darker and his tail stiff.

“How many masters have you had?”

“I have been sold to three men, then taken in by one more but he did not truly own me. He was cruel so I ran away. I am not bad, I would not have left if he owned me.”

Scott was angry, he couldn’t understand how anyone could mistreat Midge. He was so innocent, so sweet. “Were the others good to you?”

“No. Trent was kind, he was a good master.”

“But not the others? But wait, you’re only 20, right? How old were you when your mother sold you?”

“I was fourteen. She waited as long as she could.”

Scott tried to let the words soak in. He stood, stir-crazy and watched as Midge slipped to the floor and lay down on knees and elbows, tail between his legs. “No, no, it’s okay. I’m not mad at you.”

He looked up carefully, trying to tell from Scott’s face if he should believe his energy or his words.

“It’s okay, please. I’m going to get a drink of water, would you like one?” He took a few steps back, giving Midge some room. The last thing he had meant to do was scare him.

Midge sat up, his butt resting on his ankles. “Yes please. Thank you.”

“Thanks for talking to me, for trusting me. I appreciate it.” He handed Midge the glass, then grabbed his phone. “I have to head out to rehearsal but I’ll be back later and we can order dinner, okay? Will you be alright while I’m gone?”

“Yes, of course.”

“Do you need anything before I go?”

“Would you mind putting on the cartoons? I would like to watch them before my nap.”

He grabbed the remote and turned on the cartoon channel, then handed it to Midge who placed it gently on the coffee table. “I’ll be back around 6, okay? Don’t answer the door and please don’t go anywhere, okay?”

“I’ll be here, Si-Scott.”

“Bye Midge”

Chapter 7 – Distractions

Midge sighed when the door closed, then stripped out of his clothes and snuggled into the blankets on the couch. He had never seen the cartoon that was playing on the TV but he didn’t mind. He was happy to be alone and relaxed but this wasn’t home and he wasn’t quite comfortable. He didn’t know if he’d ever have a home again, the months since Trent left him had been some of the worst of his life. No, not worst, just saddest.

Today though, he was warm. His belly was still comfortably full and he stretched out languidly, turning onto his back and tuning out the television. He forced himself to take the time to come up with a real plan. Yesterday when he’d escaped, he had acted rashly and he was lucky it had worked out as well as it had. He’d been desperate, but now he wasn’t and he needed to figure things out before he did something stupid.

When Scott had first approached him he’d almost said ‘no’ to his offer of dinner but the cold and rain had forced him inside. He’d told himself that after the past month, he could put up with anything for one night, but Scott hadn’t used him. Why not? Maybe Scott didn’t like him? But if not, why was he being kind? That human was confusing him.

His brain was screaming that he should leave, in fact he had planned to right after breakfast, but where would he go? He had no where to go and no one to care for him, and that was the trap. What options did he have? Live on the streets and eat out of trash cans? Yes, for a chance to be free, it was worth it. But it was dangerous, cold, and most of all lonely.

Maybe this, here, with Scott, would be better. He could offer his services and see how things went. If he stayed kind, maybe HE could stay. And if Scott wasn’t, he could always leave then, right? He wasn’t so far up in this building, he could climb out the window if he needed to. There didn’t seem to be a fancy alarm to contend with either. Scott had left him free, he wasn’t leashed and collared or locked in the room. Would he start doing so after they had an agreement? Somehow, he just didn’t think so. His eyes were so kind….

If he couldn’t offer himself, he would try to help Scott by cleaning up the apartment. He was used to cleaning up and enjoyed it. He explored the few bits of the apartment he hadn’t yet, then took care of his chores before curling up for a nap.

---

Scott worked hard to focus on the new arrangment they were working on. As soon as they broke into groups or a conversation started, he was lost in thought though.

    "Earth to Scotty" Avi said, waving his hand in front of his face.

“Yeah? Sorry.”

    "Can we try the break with lines 3 and 4 repeated at the end?"

“Sure, okay….. 1, 2, 3, 4…” It worked better that way, and they finally took a 15 minute break. He wandered to the bathroom and when he came out, Kelly flagged him down.

    "You're thinking about him, aren't you?"

“Yeah. Sorry I’m a little spacey.”

    "I don't blame you, he's cute.  But seriously, he thinks he's a cat?"

“I guess I misunderstood.”

    "You're lying to me, Scott Richard.  Don't.  What is it?"

“Kake, will you SWEAR to not tell anyone? Not even Avi and Kevin?”

    She let out a huge sigh, then shifted to her other foot.  "Okay, yeah.  I'm worried enough to agree to anything."

“He has ears and a tail. He really is part cat.” He watched her eyes go big and the corners of her mouth tilt up. “No, really.”

    "Okay, fine.  If that's the way you want to play it, fine, I'll drop it.  But eventually, you'll tell me the truth.  I'm going to be watching you."

Scott considered arguing the point, but clamped his mouth shut. “We should get started, I don’t want to be late getting home.”

---

He unlocked the door and walked in. The kitchen was clean, everything put away. The floor had been mopped, the carpet in the living room vacuumed. The TV was still on but the volume was turned off and Midge was curled up in the blankets asleep.

Scott stood a moment just watching him. His hair was sticking up where it had fallen over his ear and the only other part of him he could see was a bit of his nose and his eyes. He’d never seen anyone bury themselves that well.

Hunger won out, and he decided to wake him up. “Midge? I’m home.”

“I know. Good evening” came the small reply. He didn’t sound asleep, but he didn’t move either.

“Do you like Chinese?”

“Food? I will eat anything but yes, I think I do.”

Scott rummaged through the pile of menus and grabbed his favorite, then handed it to Midge. “Let me know what you’d like.”

Midge stared at it, then opened it up, hoping for pictures. No, only words. “You can choose for me, please?” He held it back towards Scott.

“I don’t know you well enough to pick. Do you like spicy food or not? I… breakfast is one thing but this is much harder, you should pick.”

Midge panicked, not wanting to admit his failures to him yet. “Can I have shrimp? And noodles? I love shrimp.”

“Shrimp lo mein it is. Sure.” He grabbed the phone and ordered, then sat down next to him on the couch. “I love Sponge Bob, can we turn it up?”

“Of course, whatever you like.” He relaxed then, watching the silly square boy and his friends. When he heard the knock on the door he buried his head under the blankets.

Scott paid the delivery guy and started taking packages out of the bag. “All set Midge, want to eat at the counter today?”

“Sure.” He stood and padded over to the stool, not remembering he wasn’t supposed to be naked until Scott dropped a container of rice all over the floor. “I am sorry, I willl…. I will dress and then clean that up. I am so sorry.”

“It’s, okay… yeah, just get dressed, please.” He watched his retreating back head towards the bathroom, the image of Midge’s beautiful body burned into his brain forever.

Chapter 8 – Eat

Midge hesitated, then opened the door slowly.  He raced towards the kitchen when he saw Scott on his hands and knees, cleaning up the rice.  “No, please Sir!  Please let me, I am so sorry.”

“It’s okay Midge, I’m almost done.”  He wasn’t expecting Midge’s hands to grab the dustpan from him, and certainly was even more surprised at the tears sliding down his cheeks and mingling with his hint of beard.

“I was so stupid Master, I did not mean to break the rules. I am so sorry.”  He swept furiously, head down.  Scott hadn’t moved though, he’d simply rocked back.  He didn’t check, but knew he was probably staring at him and trying to decide what to do to him.

“It’s okay, really.”  Now that his mind wasn’t as occupied with the rice, pictures were assaulting him.  The Midge leaning in front of him was clothed but it didn’t help wipe the image from his mind.  He was thin, so very thin.  If not for the smattering of hair along his chest, he’d probably be able to see even more ribs than he had caught glimpses of earlier.  He was perfect in a small, delectable package.  He wasn’t overly hairy but definitely hairier than Scott was.  His chest matched his lower legs, forearms, and tail, a light dusting of hair becoming thicker at the ends.   He looked human, just lean and long and more graceful than anyone he’d ever seen.  Just walking he was a beauty to behold.

From the back, he was a figment of one’s imagination.  His ears were somehow more prominent from behind, without those big green eyes to distract from them.  His hair licked at his neck and a lean, smooth back, roped with muscles led to a gorgeous, pert ass where somehow his tail, almost a meter long, looked right at home.  He remembered how it tucked down as he scurried into the bathroom, ashamed.  “Stop, that’s enough.  Let’s eat while it’s still warm.”

“I do not deserve to eat Sir, I am so sorry.  I did not mean to ruin your food, please eat mine.  I know it is not enough… but….”

“Midge, I’m the one who dropped the stupid rice, it’s okay.”  He reached out slowly and cupped Midge’s cheek in his hand, surprised but thrilled when he didn’t pull away.  He brushed a few tears away, then let his hand drop.  “Up you go, have a seat.”  He stood then and sat on the barstool to finish doling out the food.

He finally stood, pulling himself from the daze Scott’s touch had put him in, then moved slowly towards the stool and slipped up onto it.  He wasn’t sure what was going on but he did as he was told.

“Eat” Scott said, smiling over at him.  He fidgeted a bit on the stool, trying to rearrange himself.  He HAD to stop thinking about the way the light from the window was bouncing off of Midge’s naked back.

“Would you like me to pleasure you, Sir?” he asked, noticing Scott’s predicament.  “I would like to.”

Scott stopped with the fork a mere inch from his mouth.  “Midge, no, you don’t need to do that.  You don’t need to offer, either.  Was that your job, is that why they bought you?”

“Yes.  Mostly.  I am well trained and happy to be of service.”  He watched Scott’s eyes slant, his jaw tighten.  “I am sorry if I have offended.  I am so sorry.  I was trying to make it better.”

“I know.  I’m starting to put pieces of the puzzle together and maybe understand you just a little bit.  You don’t owe me sex, Midge.  I am happy to give you food, and to help you.  You don’t owe me anything and I am not your master either.  I’m not like them.  Now, please eat your shrimp.  You’re too skinny and I’m worried about you.”

“If I eat, and you will not use me, how are you going to punish me?”

Scott threw his head back in frustration.  “I’m not GOING TO!”  He regretted raising his voice immediately, wanted to take back every ounce of anger he’d let out when he saw Midge’s lower lip tremble and his eyes dart away.  “I’m sorry” he said, quieter.  “I’m not going to hurt you.  Not tonight, not ever.  Do you understand?”

Midge forced a bite of shrimp into his mouth, methodically chewing.  He relaxed a bit when Scott picked his fork back up and started eating his dinner as well.

When he finished, Scott decided that maybe they shouldn’t spend the next few hours in the apartment.  “Want to go shopping and get you a few things?”

“I do not have any money and I do not need anything.”

“I do, and you need shoes, and some clothes, and whatever else it is that Nevo’s need.  We can get some milk and a few groceries too.”

“Neko, Scott” he answered, giggling.  “But you should not spend your money on me.  I do not want to be any trouble.”

“You are the very best kind of trouble, Midgey, and the most fun I’ve had in…. well…. ever.  Have you ever been to the mall, or Target?”

“I do not think so, oh wait, I have seen commercials.  They have beautiful red commercials.  But someone might see me.”

“That’s the place.  You’re right though, we should go to Walmart instead.  No one will think twice if they see you in Walmart.   This is going to be FUN.  Grab your shoes.  Afterwards, maybe we’ll see a movie.”

Midge’s eyes popped open and he leapt up onto the barstool.  “Oh, sorry” he said, climbing down.  “So sorry, I got excited.”

Scott just laughed and opened the door, heading down to the car.

Chapter 9 – Shop

Scott pulled item after item off the rack, a bewildered Midge following close behind. He’d given up asking, the boy had no opinions and ‘didn’t need anything.’
Yeah, right. He asked for a changing room and dumped the pile in the corner. Then he looked up and saw the sign:

“For your safety and convenience, dressing rooms are monitored via closed circuit camera by same-sex security personnel.”

He threw his hand up to cover his face and sighed.
Shit, shit shit. He can’t try anything on!
What had he been thinking? “Okay, change of plans.”

“What is wrong?”

Scott just pointed to the sign and turned to leave. He stopped by to tell the associate he’d had an emergency and was sorry for the inconvenience. He didn’t say another word until they were halfway down the corridor. “You can do shoes though, right? Is there anything wrong with your feet?”

“My feet? They are fine. I do not understand.”

“Just trying not to be stupid this time and making sure we don’t get in trouble. Let’s find you some shoes and I’ll think about clothes.” He pulled him into the store and started wandering down the aisles. “What do you want? And please, please help me here.”

Midge was in overload. He had never, EVER seen so many shoes. There were boots, and a million pairs of sneakers, and even sparkling high heels. “I like the sparkly ones” he said, staring at a pair of blue sequined stilettos.

“Men’s, we need men’s. Come with me.” He led him to the, admittedly, boring men’s section and started looking. “Something versatile is probably best. Do you exercise or work out? You don’t run, right?”

“I do not, no. I do not run. I hate shoes, they hurt. Can I have soft ones?”

“Soft shoes?”
Not helpful Midge. “Let’s aim for comfortable.” When the sales associate came up they measured his feet and then Scott asked for his size in four different styles.

He sat in the chair and stared as the lady unwrapped the shoe presents, pulling paper and shapes from inside, and placed one on his foot. He had tried to help but one look from Scott had told him that he should just sit.

    "How does that feel?" she asked.

It was hard, and boring black and he hated it. “It is fine.”

“Let’s try the slip-ons please” Scott asked, and the lady whipped the boot off his foot and presented him with the much simpler brushed suede slide.

“This is better. It is softer” he answered when they looked to him. “Can I try the other one, it’s friend?”

    "Of course" she smiled and slipped the other onto his foot.

He took a few spins around the store until Scott was satisfied that he at least didn’t hate them and they didn’t seem to be hurting him any.

He quickly paid at the register and laughed when Midge was so excited that he could wear them out. “Okay, I think we’re going to go to Walmart and just buy things in two or three sizes, then return what doesn’t fit. We can at least get you a few basics of your own to tide you over a few days and then we can order online some nicer stuff once we have some idea what size you are. That work for you?”

“Whatever you think Si-Scott. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” They grabbed a cart at Walmart and headed for the clothing section. “You need underwear.”

“Why?”

“It’s just…. you just do.”

“Why?”

“Okay, we’ll come back to that. Socks?”

“Sure, socks. They are warm.” He frowned at the black ones Scott held up and found a pair of striped dress socks.

“They won’t be as soft, but if you like them, fine. Get a bunch.”

“How many is a bunch?” he asked, grabbing as many patterns as he could find.

“I don’t know, 5 will probably do for now, depending on how much you wear them.”

“Only when I wear shoes, I do not like to cover my feet.” He padded silently towards the pajamas and started fingering the buttons down the shirt. “Fancy.”

“Pajamas are fine, but you definitely need a small, those are huge.”

“I sleep naked though, do I need them?”

“Just get them.”

“Okay.” He found a light green plaid pair and put them in the cart. “What else?”

“Some sweats that actually fit you, at least one pair of shorts and a few shirts for wearing around the house.” Scott was able to convince him to get at least a few things in black so they’d go together, but in general Midge seemed happiest with as many colors as possible in the cart. So far, so good. When they got to the jeans, things got a little trickier. He tried holding them up to Midge’s waist to guess the waist and inseam but he had no idea how to account for a tail.

“Maybe we can get two and see which one is best?”

“I think we’re going to need more than that, and definitely the loosest fit we can find.” He grabbed 4 pair and tossed them in, then headed over to find him another hoodie. After refusing to buy the hideous blue camo because he couldn’t stand the thought of looking at it constantly, they found a royal blue one that they compromised on.

“This is so much, I have never had so many clothes.”

“This is a fraction of what you actually need, so I don’t, I can’t comprehend…. okay, what else? We’ll do food last, but what do you like to do? Do you need bathroom stuff too? Please, anything you need is fine, just tell me.”

“I could use a comb, and a razor. I need to cut my nails, and a file. I am sorry.”

“No, that’s actually helpful, don’t apologize. Follow me.” The cart was half full and they were on the way to get a few groceries when he turned and Midge was gone. “Midge??” He backed up a row, frantically looking around before he spotted him in down the toy aisle. He left the cart and walked over, curious to know what had grabbed his attention.

Midge reached out, almost afraid to touch it but when he did it was as soft as he thought it would be. The stuffed kitten was white, with black ears and a black tail.

“It looks like you. Do you want it?”

“I… what do I have to do for it?”

Scott picked up the stuffed cat from the shelf and handed it to Midge. “We just have to pay for it. You carry him while we get groceries, okay?”

He gripped the toy as tightly as he dared, not wanting to accidentally hurt it. It was the most amazing thing anyone had ever given him. He followed behind Scott, watching as he put two big gallons of milk and a box of cream in the cart.

“You don’t eat cat food, right?”

“Please do not make me. I mean, I am sorry. I will eat whatever you would like.”

“No, no, okay, no cat food. Just checking. What’s your favorite food?” he asked, trying to reassure him with a smile.

“Pizza. With pepperoni and sausage and all kinds of things on it. But I will eat anything.”

“I know, I know. Okay, let’s get home and order us a large pizza.”

Chapter 10 – Loss

Scott finished chewing his third piece of pizza and leaned back, content. He had watched Midge pick off each piece of meat and eat them separately before going in on the slice. He was still finishing up his first piece. Scott had come to love how much the boy enjoyed his food, how he never took it for granted. He hated the reasoning behind it but loved watching his joy. “Okay, we’ll do your clothes after you finish your pizza, but you have to finish that piece first.”

“Thank you, I am so excited!” He tried to finish quickly, he had been bugging Scott since they got home to try on his new things and now it was finally time. It had been so hard to stop asking, but he’d tried to be patient. He put his plate and Scott’s in the sink and then grabbed his kitten, arranging her carefully on the couch so she could watch. Next to that he placed his bags and started pulling things out, one at a time. He placed every piece around the couch so that he could see at least a little bit of each item. “What should I try first?”

“Maybe we should get the jeans out of the way and then we’ll start cutting up the sweats and shorts.”

“Okay.” He unzipped his jeans and pushed them down, standing in just his hoodie. “Which pair first?”

“Um” He tried to look away, up, down, out the window, at his fingers, wherever, but he had a hard time not peeking. “We forgot underwear, huh?”

“Oh, I am sorry, does this count as naked? I am sorry. I know you do not like to look at me, I am so sorry. Please.” He grabbed a pair of sweatpants and pulled them on hastily while backing away.

“It’s not that Midge, it’s just awkward.”

“You do not like me, I understand. I did not mean to break the rules. I am so stupid.”

“No. Midge, no.” He stood then and walked over, pulling him into a hug and relaxing when the boy melded into him. “I do like you, and you’re not stupid. I like you too much, okay?” He tried to pull back but Midge had his shirt fisted in his hands and was stuck to him like glue.

“Too much? I do not understand.” He looked up at Scott, his eyes sparkling green, his expression confused but hopeful.

“There are lots of things you don’t seem to be able to understand, but this is important. I won’t be like them Midge, I won’t. I’m your friend, and seeing you naked makes it really difficult to not hold you, and other things.”

“But I like being held, I am so lonely. I do not mind if you use me if you hold me too. It is more than fair.”

He couldn’t explain to him how wrong his thinking was, how it stabbed like a dagger every time he thought that his only worth was what he could do to please others. “Step back so we can see how those fit, okay?”

He hesitated a moment but then let go, moving back towards his pile and doing a spin.

“Great, are they comfy? Let me grab a pen and we can mark where your tail is.” He grabbed a marker and knelt behind Midge but suddenly got nervous. It seemed too intimate, even though Midge seemed fine with it. “I think you’ll have to do it.”

“But I can not see. I do not want it to be wrong.”

“Fine, fuck it. Hold still a minute.” He ran a finger along the top of the bulge, finding the top of his tail and drew a mark. “Okay, all good.”

Over the next hour Midge tried on every single thing they had bought, in every single combination he could think of. He wouldn’t rest until he’d tried on the pajama top with his jeans, each different pair of socks with different pants and shirts, and his hoodie with everything he now owned. Scott sat in the chair, cutting tail holes while Midge changed and grinning every time he spun. When they had finally finished the fashion show and their alterations, Scott helped him fold up everything they were keeping and emptied out space in the hall closet for him to store his things.

“I’m sorry we didn’t make it to the movie, but we’ll do it another night, okay?”

“Of course, thank you so much. I have had a wonderful day. The best day, really. You have been so nice.” He grabbed his new kitten and curled up with her in the blankets Scott had spread over the couch.

“I can’t believe how much she looks like you, it’s adorable.”

“She does not look like me, she looks like Marley. Can I call her Marley, even though she is not?”

“Who’s Marley, Midge?”

“My sister. My twin sister, my favorite. We slept together every night, so maybe tonight I will not be so lonely.”

Scott’s face fell and he turned his head, not wanting to upset him. A stuffed animal was a poor substitute for family. “Goodnight Midge. Sleep well.” He turned off the light and shuffled to his room, his heart simultaneously fuller than it had ever been, and breaking.

Chapter 11 – Sick

Midge woke early as usual and slowly walked around the apartment, fingering the buttons to his new pajamas that he had remembered to slip on underneath his blankets before getting up. He looked out the windows at the stillness before the sunrise. The city was almost pretty this time of day.

He folded up his blankets and placed them in the pile with his pillow, straightening up the living room. He took Marley with him to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of milk, drinking it down slowly. Then he opened the closet door and ran his fingertips along each item of clothing. Scott had been so good to him yesterday.

He used the bathroom and then paused at Scott’s bedroom door, listening to make sure everything was okay. He knew he shouldn’t go in but he wanted to see him, just to make sure he was alright. Slowly he turned the door knob, then gently pushed the door open.

The room was dark, the only light coming from Scott’s phone which was plugged in and charging on the table next to him. Midge took a few steps closer and that’s when it hit him, something was wrong. Maybe Scott was having a bad dream, but he was too hot, the beads of sweat barely discernible in the dark. Midge could smell them though, the salt pierced his nose

He went closer, trying not to wake him but needing to know he was okay. Sickness scared him and he was petrified that his Scott was ill. He gently placed his hand against his forehead, pulling it back when he felt the clammy heat. “Scott?” he whispered.

Scott groaned and turned to his side, his head throbbing. His pillow felt like a brick, his bed like a rock. “Fuck” he moaned.

“Scott? Are you okay?”

“Midge? What are you… what time is it?”

“I do not know, it is early. Can I help you?”

“I need some Advil and water. It’s in the bathroom.”

He raced out, grabbing a drink of water from the kitchen and bringing it, placing it on the end table. When he got to the bathroom and opened the cabinet, there were 5 different bottles of pills. He grabbed them all, then went back to ask for help. “Is it one of these?”

Scott tried to focus but it was too dark. “Advil. I don’t know. Just give me two.”

“I can not. I am sorry, I don’t know which one. Aaahhd, does it start with A?”

“Yes Midge, with A. They’re blue.” He answered, his voice strained.

He went back to the hallway so the light wouldn’t bother Scott’s eyes and found the bottle he thought was right. He opened it up and yes, the were blue. He went into the bathroom and put the other bottles back before going in and giving Scott his medicine.

“Thank you Midge.”

“Are you okay?”

“Just sick. I felt a little better yesterday but I guess this cold finally caught up with me. I’ll live.”

“Are you sure? Please, please do not die.” He ran out of the room to grab Marley and rushed back, climbing into bed next to Scott. “I can help. I took care of Trent and I can take care of you. Just please do not die.”

“I won’t die, I promise. It’s just a cold, Midge. Stop worrying.” He wanted to tell Midge to get out of his bed but he didn’t want to be alone, and he didn’t want Midge to be worried about him. He turned on his side, his back facing the small boy who had snuck into his heart, and his bed.

“If you tell me what hurts, I will try to help you.”

“Mostly my head, it’s throbbing.”

Midge curled closer to his back and reached one hand up, threading it through his hair. Slowly, gently, he ran his fingers over his scalp putting pressure on his temples and down near the nape of his neck. Over and over he caressed his head, pouring his thanks into his fingertips.

“God that feels good.” He tilted his head to give him access to as much as possible.

“If you roll onto your stomach, I can do more of it, and your shoulders. But only if you want. I will rub until you fall asleep or tell me to stop.”

Scott didn’t need any convincing, he gladly rolled forward and turned his head, giving him access to the half he hadn’t been able to rub yet. He would have sat up and stopped Midge when he straddled his hips if he hadn’t been half asleep and in so much pain but as soon as those little fingertips dug into his shoulders and his strong thumbs pressed into his neck, all thoughts of arguing disappeared.

Midge worked at the knots in his shoulders until they finally relaxed, then went back to work on his head until he was sure Scott had fallen back asleep. He felt his forehead and was thankful that it felt a bit cooler. He climbed down and pulled Marley into his arms, snuggling against Scott’s side.

When Scott woke later he knew two things. 1. He had to use the bathroom and 2. He was a lucky, lucky man. He got out of bed and looked at the wide-eyed boy tangled in his blankets. “Morning Midge.”

“Are you okay? Do you feel better?” He sat up and crawled across the bed, meeting Scott at the corner. “Would you like breakfast? I can make some things.”

“You can cook?”

“I can make eggs, and toast, and pancakes if you have a mix. Or cereal, of course, and oatmeal. You should lay down and I will take care of you.”

“I’m okay Midge, really. I’m going to pee and take a few more Advil but breakfast sounds good. I bought eggs last night, can you scramble them? And maybe some toast?”

“Yes, yes Sir.” He hopped up and scooted towards the kitchen, glad to have a job to do and a way to help.

Scott wandered out to the kitchen and sat at the counter, watching Midge work in his kitchen as if he’d been there for months. When he put a plate of fluffy eggs and buttered toast in front of him, he grinned, then dug in. ’These are amazing, thank you.“

“I am glad you like them. Please tell me if anything is wrong, I can make them however you would like.”

“This is perfect, honestly. I’m not hard to please.” He swallowed two more Advil and made his way over to the couch. “When you’re finished, please come sit with me. I want to know all about Trent.”

Chapter 12 – Past

Midge washed and dried the dishes and pan and walked over towards the couch. “Can I get you anything SiSsscott? I could bring your pillow, or help you back to bed.”

“I’m feeling a lot better Midge. I’m not great but it’s just a cold. Come sit with me. I don’t want to go to bed yet, I don’t think I could sleep. Let’s talk and then watch a cartoon, okay?”

“Whatever you like.” He perched on the arm of the couch, managing to make it look normal. His legs were bent up with his knees under his chin, his arms wrapped around his legs. His tail draped over the edge, slightly swinging back and forth. His head rested on his knees, facing Scott, one ear angled towards the front door.

If Scott had tried that there was no doubt in his mind that he’d be on the floor in seconds. “Please don’t fall.  That doesn’t look safe or comfortable.”

“I am….” he looked down, trying to understand Scott’s displeasure. “Oh, I can move to the chair.” Trent had also been nervous when he perched.

“No, close is fine.” Scott pulled up his legs and made room at the end of the couch. “Here.”

“But you should relax. I am fine, truly.”

“Okay, if you say so. I don’t know what you can or can’t do, or what you like so I have to trust you to tell me. Can you do that? Will you be honest and tell me if you’re not happy and comfortable? If you don’t like something?”

“That is not my place Scott.”

“Yes, yes it is. It sure as hell isn’t mine, okay?” He could barely think through this fog of a headache but the guessing what was really going on in that boy’s mind was driving him crazy and he knew he probably wasn’t doing a very good job of it. “Okay, let’s try this. You’re telling me what I want to hear in order to please me and not make me angry, right?”

“Yeee….Yes Sir.” he said, his voice questioning.

“Well what I want to hear and what would make me happy is the truth. I know that may be different than what you’re used to, but it’s what I prefer. Can you do it now? It’s not an… an order or whatever the heck, oh, a rule or anything, it’s just a request, as a friend. Alright?”

“You want the truth even if it… if it makes things harder?”

“Yes, yes. Absolutely Midge.”

“I will do my best to remember that.”

“I want to talk about your, God I hate the word, masters, or owners, whatever.”

“You said Trent.” His ears flattened down a bit, his tail flicking onto the back of the couch and beating out a steady, unhappy rhythm.  He could handle speaking of Trent but the others were much harder.

“Yes, only because I didn’t think you’d talk to me about the other ones. Tell me everything you can. I want to know about the last, what, six years of your life.”

“May I ask why you want to know? No one has ever asked before.”

“Because I want to help you, understand you a little, make you happy. Because I’m your friend.”

“Friend?” he asked, rolling the word around on his tongue. “I have not had a friend in a long time.” His ears flicked again to the door, then back. “I do not think a human and a neko can be friends. Humans are masters and we are made to serve. It is our job and what we are best at.”

“How are you made to serve? Tell me why you think that.”

“We are…. resilient. Quick, helpful, kind. We are happier than humans who need things and everything to always be perfect. Humans need control, and comfort, and stuff. All we need is company, shelter, and food. We live in the moment, we are made for joy.”

Resilient. Yes, yes you are. Scott thought back to all the times he had unintentionally scared Midge, how he had bounced back seconds later. How he had trusted Scott and come home with him even though he’d run away from something that Scott probably didn’t want to know about. “I think you’re better than us, Midge. I wish I could be that strong. Now, tell me about your humans.”

“My humans. That is a funny way to say it. I… can I sit near you? I need comfort to talk about Mark.” He saw Scott’s tiny nod and hopped down, kneeling on the floor between the couch and the coffee table. “May I put my head in your lap? I am dressed.”

“You, yes you are. You’re funny. You can sit up here on the couch with me if you want but yeah, that’s fine too. Whatever makes you comfortable.”

He folded his hands in his lap and tilted his head so it just barely rested on Scott’s thigh. “Mark was a miserable, broken man who liked to break boys. I do not like to speak of him. It was a horrible year, a year during which I forgot how it felt to laugh. Luckily for me he did not like the broken, so once I gave up he sold me to Jose.

“Jose was better, not so cruel, but ruthless and commanding. He was strict and I had a hard time remembering all his rules. I was….” He started rocking slightly, trying to comfort himself. His tail wound up and around his shoulders in a pitiful attempt at a hug.

Scott pulled himself out of the rage that was burning behind his eyes and looked down, trying to decide the right thing to do. He couldn’t imagine Midge not laughing for a year, how bad it would have to be to keep that boy from being happy. His hand moved on its own, coming to rest between Midge’s ears. He patted him lightly, smoothing his hair down. When Midge nuzzled closer he got braver, running his fingers through his hair. He lightly tickled around his ears, worried that perhaps he was treating him too much like a cat but when Midge’s tail unfurled and wrapped around his calf, he decided to continue.

“Thank you” he mumbled. “I was… not good enough for him. He tried to teach me, in many ways but even his belt did not work. I am so forgetful. I did not please him so he sent me to Trent.”

“Why don’t you get us a drink and then we can talk some more, if you want. Okay?” He wanted to give Midge a break, some time to snap out of the horror he must be feeling.

“Yes Sscott, of course. May I have milk?” He gently unfolded himself and walked into the kitchen.

“I bought it for you, so help yourself. Any chance you’d want to make me a cup of hot tea?”

“I can do that. What do you like inside the cup?”

“Oh, just a squirt of honey would be great, thank you.” He chuckled to himself at Midge’s phrasing; every now and then he said something in such an odd way that it cracked him up. He sat up, making room for Midge at the end and motioned to him to sit when he brought the cup in a few minutes later.

“Trent was very good to me. He let me sleep in his bed, and sometimes he brought me Happy Meals. I love chicken nuggets, and they have TOYS! He took me to a movie once, and he was kind. He did not use me so much and when he did, he, he was kinder to me. He was older though, and sick. At first I did not know, he was not so bad but after awhile he would come back from the doctor visits and still not feel better. When the nurses started coming, I had to hide a lot but it was alright. He locked me in then, he said he was scared I would run away and leave him but I would never have done that. I sang to him, and bathed him, and pleasured him. I cooked his food and helped him with everything. I learned a lot. One day when the nurse came, he left with her. He did not come back. I waited many days because I thought….. Eventually some other men came to the house and said they were going to empty it out and sell it so I left. I had a few things he had bought me so I packed everything, and the last of the food.

“After a few days though I was hungry so I started stealing out of the trash cans at night. There was a restaurant, it smelled delicious and I would go every night. One day I got caught though. That was Steven. He was going to call the police but he figured out I am Neko. He took me home with him and kept me there. He was very mean. I do not want to talk about him. I ran away and that is when you found me. Is that enough?”

“My poor, poor Midge. I’m so sorry.”

“It is better now. I think you are as nice as Trent. He was very good to me and I am very happy to be here with you now. I hope you will let me stay.”

“Wait. Hold on a minute.” He took a deep breath, shook his head to clear it an immediately regretted it when a dagger stabbed through his skull. “A master who only raped you now and then, who kept you locked in his house, who treated you like a slave and pet instead of a person was ‘good to you’?? And you think maybe, maybe I’m as nice as HE was?”

“I am sorry. You are mad. I did not mean to offend. I was… I am sorry.”

“No, no dear. I am sorry. You have no idea how sorry I am that your standard for humanity is so damn low. Do you need a hug?” In a flash he was wrapped up by Midge. Somehow that tiny boy managed to be everywhere, yet light as a feather. His head was cradled in his neck, one leg thrown over his lap. He wrapped his arms around the light bundle, rubbing small circles on his back. “It’ll be okay now. I’m going to take care of you, and make sure you can take care of yourself. I just have one more question.”

“Yes?”

“Can you read?”

He paused, thinking about his answer. “No, I can not. I know most of my letters though, and I can write my name.”

“We’ll fix that too, little one.”

Chapter 13 – Kelly

“Your phone is buzzing” Midge said, still cuddled into Scott’s neck.

“Those ears of yours are helpful.  I should get that” he said, shifting slightly.

Midge was halfway down the hallway before Scott had finished his sentence and returned with the phone just a moment later.  “Here you go.”

“Thanks Midge.”  He glanced at the screen and then spent a few minutes sending a few texts.  Afterwards he looked over at Midge who was picking practically invisible hairs off the couch.  ““That’s what a vacuum is for, don’t worry.”

“I am a bit of a mess, I am sorry.  I do not want to hurt your head with the vacuum.”

“You’re sweet, and also right about the noise.  I’m feeling a lot better though.  Do you feel up to having some company?”  He knew the answer to that, it was written all over his face.  “Look, Midge, you’re going to stay here, with me, right?  At least for awhile? If you want to, obviously, you don’t HAVE to.”

“I… I would like to if….  I mean….”

“No, I want you to.  Please.  So, if you’re going to stay, you need to meet a few of my friends and the first person on that list is Kelly.  I promise she won’t hurt you.”

Midge hesitated, saying nothing.

“And I promise Olaf won’t come.  She’ll bring us lunch, okay?  I just want her to meet you.  I wouldn’t do anything to put you in danger, Midge.  She’s amazing, and fun, and you will love her if you just give her a chance.”

“And you want her to know, about me I mean.”

“Yes.”

“Whatever you like.”

“I’m going to get a shower.  Speaking of which, do you bathe?  I mean, sorry but you’re just going to have to forgive my dumb questions.”

“I shower, yes.  I do not like to sit in water though.  I will shower after you, if that is okay.”

Scott was clean and in new sweats, reclining on the couch when he heard Midge calling him from the bathroom.

“Sir, I did not bring clothes, I am so sorry.  Is it okay if I wrap in the towel and come out?”

“That’s fine, no worries.”  He tried to stay focused on the TV and ignore the fact that a practically naked Midge was prancing around the room behind him.

“I am not sure what I should wear.  Jeans and my hoodie or?” he asked, the excitement and fear evident in his voice.

“No, no, be comfortable.  She can see your tail and ears, it’s the only way she’ll believe me.”  He heard the door open and close, then the bathroom door.  Suddenly, the lack of an extra bedroom seemed an obvious problem.  If Midge was going to live here he needed some space.  He needed to feel this was home and he wouldn’t if he was sleeping on the couch.  The obvious answer was to move him into Scott’s room along with him.  His bed was plenty big enough and he could easily give Midge half the dresser and some closet space.  It would also give Midge the closeness he seemed to need.  Closeness wasn’t going to help Scott though and it wasn’t a good long-term answer.  He couldn’t exactly bring a date home with someone sharing his room.  What they needed to do was move.  Pets and slaves didn’t need bedrooms, but people and his Neko, did.

The doorbell rang while Midge was in the hallway.  He looked towards the door, then to Scott.  “Do you… should I?”  He could smell the food.  He hadn’t smelled that scent up close in months but he knew that nestled down along with apple pies and beef were chicken nuggets. Are they really for me?  No, no, don’t get your hopes up.

“No, I’ll get it.”  He checked the peephole and then let Kelly in.  “Hey.”

        “Wow, you do look rough, but I think you’ll live.  Don’t infect me though, or else you’ll have to do your own shopping.  I brought McDonald’s, as requested.”  She breezed into the apartment and stopped dead in her tracks when she finally laid eyes on Midge for the first time.  “Nice ears.”

“Thank you.”  He kept his eyes down turned and his tail behind him.

Scott grabbed the Happy Meal from Kelly and handed it towards Midge.  “All yours.”

The smile which crept over Midge’s face was bright enough to provide light to most of L.A.  “Thank you!  You… Thank you!”  He carefully took the box and cradled it, looking around the room.

“Sit anywhere you want.  Let me know if you need anything.  Oh, here’s your milk.”  He popped it out of the drink holder and handed it over.  He felt like the Grinch had when his heart grew two sizes because his chest really didn’t feel quite big enough.  So much joy from something so simple.  Scott grabbed his burger and sat down with Kelly at the counter once Midge was settled on the floor near the hallway.  He had no idea why he was there, maybe he felt safer with easy access to the bedroom, but he seemed happy enough so he went with it.

        “Sooooo, that’s Midge?”

“Mmmhmm” he said, still chewing.  “He’s awesome, and you’re going to love him.”

        “So how do the ears work?  Wifi?  Some amazing new app?  Are they glued on?”

“No, Kake, they’re real.  I’ve touched them, and they’re really his ears.  He has real, I mean human ears on the side too, obviously but they’re small.”  It took him a minute to realize that Midge was listening to everything they were saying.  “Sorry Midge, I don’t mean to talk about you like you’re not here.”

“It is fine.  I will be quiet.”

“No, you can talk.  You know a LOT more about yourself than I do.  Please tell me if I get anything wrong and if you want to say something, please do.  Okay?”

Midge just nodded and went back to dipping his nuggets.  He had opened 3 different sauces and was trying them each out, repeatedly.  So far, the one with the ‘S’ words was his favorite.

“He’s smart K, but he’s not quite like us.  I don’t think he’s been exposed to a lot of things, and he doesn’t go out much.  Hey, Midge, did you go to school?”

“No.”

        “So, a half cat person who is a little weird, but not crazy, and didn’t go to school.  Oh, and he has ears.  Got it.  Scott, how high is your fever?”

“Kake, be nice.”

        “I am being nice but honey, YOU are my number one concern here.  No, my only concern.  Look Midge, I’m sorry if I’m being mean but I love this man and it’s my job to take care of him.”

“You are his?”

“No, Midge, not like that.  She’s my friend and that’s what friends do.”

“Oh, I see.”

“Midge, can she touch your ears?”

“If you would like.”  He glanced down at his remaining food, hating to leave it unguarded, and then walked over, stopping a foot from Kelly and lowering his head.

        She sent a look Scott’s way and then reached out her hand.  This is ridiculous, what the heck was he…… HOLY SHIT it moved! She bent her index finger behind her thumb and then flicked it as hard as she could.

“KELLY!” Scott yelled, his voice was raw but still loud enough to wake the dead.  Seeing Midge flinch had felt like being punched.  “What did you DO that for?  Don’t hurt him!”

“I am okay, it is fine” Midge said, his voice cracking.  He didn’t move a muscle.

        “It can’t hurt him, they’re not REAL Scott.  Chill out.”  She started rooting through his hair, trying to see where they were attached to his scalp.

“Enough Kelly, get off of him.” he said, still angry.  “Midge?” he asked “Look at me.  I’m sorry.”

He raised his head and looked up at Scott.  When his Scott reached up to wipe a tear from his cheek he leaned in, grateful for the comfort.

“I told him you wouldn’t hurt him.  You wouldn’t do that to Olaf, how can you do it to Midge?  Maybe you should go.”

        She stood but wasn’t giving up.  She circled around Midge, staring down at his tail.

“Don’t touch him”

        “Relax DipDot, I won’t hurt him.  You’re right, that was mean, and I’m sorry.  I just want to touch it, okay?”  She reached out and wrapped her hand around it, amazed at the warmth.  “I suppose you can move it, right?  Cats can.”

“Yes, I can move it.”

        “Please do.”  She saw the tip twitch but it was the muscle ripping below her fingertips that she focused on.  “Again.  Now close your eyes.”  After Scott nodded to Midge she asked him “Closed?”

“Yes.”

        “Am I touching you with two hands or one?”

“One.”

        She ran her fingertip up and down over a few inches.  “Now?”

“Two.”

        “How can you do that?”

“I can feel it and I can count” Midge answered politely.  “I do not understand your question.”

        She sat down then, her head swimming.  “If I hurt your ear, I’m very sorry.  I didn’t…. I mean….”

“It is okay, it does not hurt anymore” Midge answered.  “May I finish my lunch?”

“Of course, please.” Scott answered, still frustrated with Kelly but he understood her disbelief.

        “He’s a fucking cat person.”

“I know.”

        “How?”

“He says they’re called Nekos.”  He paused, waiting for Midge to correct him if he got it wrong again.  “His whole family is Nekos, there are more.  He was surprised I hadn’t heard of them.  Apparently most are owned by people as pets and sex slaves.”

        “WHAT?  Is he okay?”

“He, no, he wasn’t.  But he is now, I’m going to make sure of that.”  He finished his pie and glanced down at Midge who was unwrapping what appeared to be some sort of green plastic spider.  “Okay, so now that we’re all friends, how about we go to see a movie?”  He couldn’t hide his grin when Midge’s head popped up, his eyes wide.

“Really???!!!  Can Marley come too???”  He ran to the closet and grabbed his clothes, then went to change without even waiting for an answer, practically skipping.

        Once he emerged from the bathroom, looking much less like a cat, she held her hand out.  “Let’s go have some fun”  His eyes went big but she just smiled and gave him a little nod.  “It’s okay Midge.”

Scott wasn’t at all surprised that she was forgiven as he watched Midge place his hand in Kelly’s.  The two of them are going to be inseparable.

Chapter 14 – Naps

Midge had never in his entire life had a day quite this good, except for maybe yesterday.  He’d seen wonderous, amazing things today.  He learned that at the movies, Scott could buy a popcorn bucket that was bigger than his head.  He had sat in between Scott and Kelly with the huge bucket resting on his lap for the entire show.  He’d almost forgotten that they were there to see a movie until the lights went dark and he was pulled out of his popcorn stupor.

They’d even let him help pick the movie.  Scott had asked what he’d wanted to see and he’d requested a cartoon so they’d watched Big Hero 6.  It was amazing, and a cartoon so even when bad things happened, it wasn’t real.  He did feel bad about the explosion but not long afterwards he was pulled into the excitement.

Afterwards they’d gotten him something called a milkshake. It was ice cream in a cup that was already half melted!  Scott said his was for his sore throat but Kelly didn’t seem to think so.  The world was amazing.  The best thing though was that no one had really stared at him and no one had tried to grab him.  He had Scott and Kelly there to do all the talking and take care of things, so he just hung back and enjoyed it.

He’d fallen asleep in the car on the ride home and he was still mad at himself.  There were so many things to see!  He couldn’t help it though, he was tired.  Scott had laughed at him when they got home and joked that he’d had a cat nap.  Now Scott was in his room taking his own cat nap but had promised to wake up in an hour or so.

Scott was in bed trying to nap, but it wasn’t happening.  Being even this far away from Midge felt wrong and pointless.  He couldn’t invite him in though, didn’t want to give him the wrong idea.  Check that, Midge already had lots of wrong ideas, Scott just wasn’t 100% sure he could keep his hands and lips to himself.  He really, really needed a date.

Scott rolled over, fluffing his pillow and closing his eyes, trying to clear his mind.  He was glad that Kelly finally knew, finally understood.  He had been right about the pair of them, too.  She had already taken Midge under her wing and he had no doubt they’d be besties in no time.  She’d be a good influence on him and Midge needed as many friends as he could get.

But what was Scott going to do with him?  He had a show out of town this weekend and it’s not like he could bring him along.  Could Midge stay at the apartment by himself?  He really needed to get Midge a phone and make sure he knew how to use it before leaving.  He rubbed his eyes as if that would magically erase some of the millions of issues surrounding Midge.

The fact was, he was in way over his head.  Midge was a cat and a boy and in some ways almost a child, and also amazing and funny and strong and Scott didn’t know what to do with even half of that.  Midge probably needed a therapist, hell, Scott probably did too but if he called around looking for someone to talk to a Neko, they’d lock both of them up in padded rooms.

He got out of bed, giving up on his nap.  Maybe they could snuggle on the couch and watch some TV and he could get some rest that way.  Maybe Midge would offer him another amazing head rub.  GAH that had been…. literally the best thing ever.  He opened the bedroom door and heard Midge giggling.  “Hey” he said, walking around the corner “What’s amusing you?”

“The spider walks.  Look, you just wind it up and let it go, like this.”  He put the spider down and watched it inch its way across the floor about 8 inches before it ran out of juice.

“I’m glad it amuses you.  We really need to get you a hobby though.  What do you like to do?”  He sat down on the couch, hoping Midge would join him.

“I do not know” he answered, sitting down with Scott.

“Don’t make me come up with a list of things I think a catboy would enjoy.  Knitting?”

“No, I do not know how.”

“Balls?  Do cats like balls?  Yeah, with the bells.”

“No” he said, not impressed.

“Okay, I got it!  You must love fishing.”

He just shook his head while Scott laughed.

“I’m sorry.  Seriously though, what do you do all day?”

“I clean and watch TV and nap.  I can do whatever you would like me to do.”

“No, hobbies are FUN.  Things you do for fun.  You don’t read, obviously, so no computer either, right?  Do you like video games?”

“I have seen them, and commercials about them but I have never played one.”

“Aren’t you bored?”

“Sometimes, I guess but I do not remember feeling bored very much.”

“But, okay, I get that you were taking care of Trent with a lot of your time but what did you do all day with the others?”

“Healed, slept, cleaned if I was unchained.  I just waited.  I just… I waited.”

Scott sighed, then put his arm on the back of the couch.  “You can come over if you want.”

He didn’t have to ask twice, there was nowhere Midge would rather be.  He tucked into Scott’s larger frame, glad to be able to feel his heartbeat.  When Scott’s arm came down to rest across his back he closed his eyes and settled in, relaxing.  “Sometimes I draw things.”  He hadn’t planned on telling him but he felt so safe right now that it slipped out.

“Ah, there we go.  What do you draw?”

“Whatever I can see out the window or sometimes things from my head and sometimes feelings.”

“We’ll get you whatever you need tomorrow.  We need to return some things to Wally world and grab you some undies, and I’m sure they have some paper and pencils or whatever you use.  I have rehearsal too, maybe you’d like to come with me.”

“Whatever you would like.”

“No, whatever YOU’D like, little one.”

“I would like to sleep in bed with you tonight then.  Thank you.”

“That’s….” and he closed his mouth because even though it wasn’t what he’d meant, he knew it was what Midge truly wanted and it was one of the first things he’d ever asked of Scott.  “That’s fine.”  He was going to need a shower first though; a long, thorough shower.

*** There’s a chapter 14 and a half in my ‘Excerpts’ book.  It’s not absolutely necessary to the story or anything, just fun smut.  Skip or read at will :)

Chapter 15 – Up

Scott was dazed, confused, and pissed at himself.  He shouldn’t have let anything happen between them.  Currently, however, the fucking fantastic was overwhelming the guilt.  He pulled Midge to his chest when he hovered nearby, knowing even in his  overwhelmed state that he couldn’t be mad at him.  “We shouldn’t have… you didn’t have to do that.”

“I did not mind and you liked it, yes?”

“Of course I did.  It was amazing.  But… I wish…  Oh never mind, we’ll talk later.”  He kissed him between his ears and rubbed his back, trying to reassure him.

“Thank you for holding me, for the comfort.”

“You’re so welcome, little one.  I hope I haven’t let you down.”

“My Scott never hurts me.”

He turned his head, shame reddening his cheeks and that’s when he saw the clock.  “Oh shit, we need to get up, Midge.  Practice in 43 minutes.  Do you want to come with me?”

“I do not want to be away from you if I do not have to be, as long as it is safe.  But it is your choice, whatever you like.”

“Grab some jeans then.  I don’t necessarily mind if Avi and Kevin find out but let’s not tell them today unless we have to, okay?”  He headed for the bathroom then and stared at himself in the mirror.  Stupid, stupid, stupid but my FUCKING GOD!!!

They went through the Starbucks drive-thru on the way to Kelly’s place and walked in right on time.

Chapter 16 – Sing

Midge was sitting with Marley in the corner, covered with a blanket.  Kelly had given him her Ipad to use while they rehearsed and on it was a game that was helping him with his letters.  He’d thought that everyone would make fun of him for not knowing how to read but Kelly and Scott seemed to really want to teach him.

He’d met Avi and Kevin briefly.  They’d simply said polite hello’s and that had been it which was a huge relief to Midge.  Scott had been right, everything was fine.  They had been working on the same song for about an hour when he started to sing it under his breath.

He didn’t see everyone’s head turn at him, or Scott urging them to keep going, he simply sang.  He was quiet but his sweet, high tenor pierced through the room as if he were in an opera house.  He clicked buttons on the Ipad and didn’t realize for several minutes that it had gotten very, very quiet in the room.

He looked up and then to Scott for reassurance when he realized everyone was staring at him.

“You have a beautiful voice Midge” he said, smiling.

“Damn, instead of the Quarnerstones we need to be the Quin…… somethings!” Kevin exclaimed.

“I don’t know……” Kelly panicked.  His voice was amazing but he was a CAT!  BOY!  Catboy, whatever, Neko.  “Um, Scott, maybe you could talk to him about it later?”  She tried to give him an out because this was NOT easy or anything like a done deal.

“Yeah, get him listening to some of our other stuff and see what he can do” Avi said.  “If he’s interested, maybe he can come audition, not that he really has to if he can sound like that all the time.”

“Exactly, no pressure” Kelly offered.  “But I would LOVE some help trying to balance out all this baritone and bass, that’s for sure!”

“What do you think Midge?  Weird name though, maybe we could call you Mike, or something?” Kevin asked.

“Okay, okay, that’s enough” Scott said, finally coming to his rescue.  “Are we done here?  Cause I’m starving.”

“If you’re hungry, we’re done” answered Avi.  “Everyone’s set to leave Friday morning, right?  We’re meeting at me and Kev’s place, noon sharp.”

Everyone confirmed and Scott said good-bye to Avi and Kevin, who were heading out, before he got a chance to sit down next to Midge.  “Hey, no pressure or anything, I don’t want you to worry.  Are you okay?”

“Yes.”

They headed home, Midge staring out the window and Scott’s brain going in 100 directions.  When he parked he looked over to see if Midge was sleeping because he’d been so quiet but instead of closed, his eyes were wet with tears.  “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.  I am sorry.”

“It’s not nothing, but let’s go inside, okay?”  He held his hand walking up to the apartment and opened the door.  “Want a drink?”

“I will get it.” he answered, stepping lightly into the kitchen.  “What would you like?”

“Water please.”  He accepted the glass Midge handed him and walked over to the couch.  “What’s wrong?  Was it everyone hearing you sing and going a little crazy?  I promise you that it was all meant as a compliment, you really are amazing.”

“No.  I just thought… but I was stupid.  When do you want me to go?”

“Go?  Go where?”

“You are leaving, right?  On Friday?  When do I need to go?”

Scott put his drink down and grabbed Midge’s, putting it on the table as well and then pulled him close.  “I’m just going to do a show.  It’s one night, I’ll be back Saturday.  You can stay here, you don’t need to go.”

“Oh, I thought…”

“I’m not leaving you Midge, you’re stuck with me, okay?”  He placed his finger under the smaller boys chin, lifting it up so he could look into his eyes.  “You don’t need to worry.”  He kissed him on the forehead, then ruffled his hair.  “Now, I really am starving.  Let’s order.”  He jumped up and grabbed the menu and handed it to Midge before pulling it back.  “I just got it.  You didn’t order Chinese because you can’t read.  And you were so confused in the dressing room because you couldn’t read the sign.  I’m the stupid one for thinking you were just slow.  Okay, I’ll read it to you and you tell me what sounds good.”

“Wait, what are you getting?”

“I’m getting fried chicken.  I LOVE fried chicken.”

“ME TOO!!  Please?”

“Okay, that was easy.  They have fries, and curly fries, ooh and sweet potato fries, or mashed potatoes.  Biscuits, corn on the cob—”

“No, it gets stuck in my teeth.  But anything else is fine.  I just want chicken.”

“Not hard to please, are you?  I’ll order and then I’m going to try to teach you how to use the television.”

The remote wasn’t too hard, it just required a little bit of tape, some tiny pieces of paper marked with 1, 2 and 3 and a little drawing of an ear for the volume.  Once the tiny pictures were taped in place, Midge spent 15 minutes turning the television on and off, and going through every channel twice.  Scott turned on the captions for him, thinking that it might help to see what he was hearing and they settled in to watch Curious George, Midge’s choice, until dinner arrived.

After dinner they headed to Wally world for a few things and then, unsatisfied with the selection, they headed to a craft store for paper.  Midge felt each booklet of paper, running his fingertips over the weave and smelling each one until he decided on the one he couldn’t live without.  He picked out 3 charcoal pencils, and Scott insisted on the special sharpener and a case to keep them in.  And then, Midge spotted the pastels.  He tried to insist that he’d never used them and didn’t need them, but they ended up in a bag as well.

Once home, Scott was faced with the dilemma of sleeping arrangements. Making him sleep on the couch felt like a slap in the face and he knew Midge wouldn’t understand.  But what happened this morning could NOT happen again, it just couldn’t, not until he’d figured out how to say no to that boy and make sure he would say it back if necessary and how they … no, it just couldn’t.  Ever.   He was still running it through his head when he was interrupted.

“Sir?”

“Scott.”

“Scott?”

“Yes?”

“Where would you like me to sleep?”

“There’s not an easy answer to that question Midge, because what I want and what I think should happen are two very, very different things.  I’m not sure what to do.”

“What would bring you joy?”

He grinned then, somehow, despite himself.  “You may sleep in my bed, but no… no pleasure, okay?”

“It does not bring you joy?”

“We’ll talk about it tomorrow, okay?”

“Can Marley come too? She is small and does not need much room.”

“Absolutely.”

Chapter 17 – Nookie

Scott woke early the next morning thirsty.  He crept out of bed, trying not to disturb Midge and got himself a glass of water.  When he returned there was just enough light from the hall and the windows to illuminate the bed and he couldn’t help but stare. Midge was laying on his side, arms curled and tucked around Marley. Most of his bottom half was under the covers but the tip of his tail stuck out and hung over the edge of the mattress.

He looked so peaceful and he noticed that even in sleep he was grinning.  He took a few steps closer so he could see his cute little dimple and the way his hair fell around his ears.  He yelped and jumped back when a tail wrapped around his thigh.

“Coming back to bed?” Midge asked.

“I thought you were asleep.”

“I always wake up when you move, you are loud.”

“No I’m not, it’s your Neko ears” he joked, settling back down under the covers.

“You are right.  I do not sleep soundly, maybe that is why I need so many cat naps.  Are you okay?”

“Yes, I was just thirsty.”

“I would have gotten it for you” Midge offered.

“No, no.  When I’m sick is one thing, although even then I felt bad but you don’t need to wait on me, alright?”

“I do not mind.”

“I understand that, but I do.”

“I do not understand.”

“Maybe we should finish this conversation later Midge, it’s a little heavy first thing in the morning.”

He stroked Marley’s head.  “Do you think she is alright?”

Lighter, we were supposed to go lighter.   Scott hesitated, trying to find the right words.  “If your sister is half as strong as you are, I think she’s doing fine.”

“Me too.  To think otherwise is, it is impossible.”

“I’m sure it is.  Want to try to get a little more sleep?”

“Can you tell me what will happen today?” he asked, snuggling closer to Scott.  His knees were tucked against his hip, his head leaned against his shoulder.  In the space between lay Marley, snuggled into his chest.

“Sure.  We’re going to have breakfast and then I want to get you a phone.  After that, we’ll do whatever you want and get ready for me to leave tomorrow.  Is that okay?”

“Of course ma– Scott.”  He closed his eyes and slowed his breathing, but he couldn’t quite force down the question plaguing him.  “I know you told me, I am sorry.  I just…. are you really coming back?  Because I would rather know the truth, if it is my choice.  I do not want to wait and not know.”

Scott, knowing him so much better now could visualize those days after Trent died.  How he must have heard every step, every car and listened for him.  How sad he must have been to crawl into an empty bed each night.  “Oh Midge, yes, I’m coming back.  I will be back as soon as I possibly can, okay?  And you’ll have a phone so you can call me anytime you need me, alright?  Oh fuck it, come here.”  He wiggled his arm out from next to his head and threw it out over the pillow.

“Nookie.  Comfort.”

“Nookie?  Is that what this is?”  He wrapped his broad arm around Midge’s small shoulders, holding him close.

Midge snuggled onto his chest, his head resting near his heart.  “Yes, this is your nook and now we have nookie.”

Scott giggled, the joy bubbling over.  “You make me ridiculously happy, little one.”

“May I have more bacon?  I love bacon.”

“Everyone loves bacon Midge, it’s a universal love.  And yes, we can definitely get you some.”

He started tracing small circles on Scott’s chest, more out of playfulness than anything else.  “You are very pretty, and you have a very nice nook.”

“Thanks.  You’re beautiful too.”

“And I have a nice tongue.”

Scott let out an exasperated sigh.  “Nice is not the right word.  But can we please not talk about it?”

“Would you rather do?  I am very happy to please.”

“No, no… Midge we can’t.”  He sat up then, even though Midge was practically glued to his side.  “Let’s get up and get dressed, okay?”

“Whatever you want” he answered, padding out into the living room.

Chapter 18 – Purr

“No” Scott muttered under his breath “that’s definitely NOT what I want right now.” He took three steps towards the door before Midge was back in front of him on his knees, pulling at the pajama bottoms Scott had been smart enough to wear to bed. “Fuck, please get up.”

“I do not know why you talk to yourself, you do not need any encouragement.” He followed on his knees as Scott backed up and pinned himself against the bed, the whole time grabbing for his pants. “Stop being silly, Sir.”

“I mean you. Stop touching me Midge, I’m serious.”

Midge’s eyes widened and he backed up, practically falling backwards as he scooted towards the door. “I am sorry, so sorry. I heard you, I thought… I am sorry.”

“It’s okay. Look, I didn’t mean for you to hear me, I just forgot for a second. Get up, please, it’s okay. I’m not mad, alright?”

He nodded, not sure what the right words were, and stood slowly.

Scott walked towards him and took his hand. “Look Midge, when we do this, it’ll be the right way and for the right reasons and…. shit, no, we can’t do this, alright? You’re… you’re not… you can’t choose this, you can’t consent and my father taught me wise, wise words. He said ‘Son, you are not looking for consent, you are looking for enthusiasm! Consent isn’t enough’ and he’s right. He’s right Midge, and I won’t be like them and hurt you, okay?”

“But it does not hurt me. This does not… this is fun. I like bringing you pleasure, joy. You are beautiful, and good to me, and make me so happy and I just want to make you happy too.”

“You do Midge, you do. You don’t have to suck me off to make me happy.”

“But it feels good, right?”

“Of course it does. You know that, although I will grant you that human tongues have NOTHING on the amazingness in your mouth.”

“I do not know, but I know men enjoy it.”

Scott cocked his head, replaying the words. “Are you saying you’ve never had a blowjob?”

“No, I have not. Who would want to pleasure me?”

“I…. Um, ME?? How…. wow. Okay. That is the saddest thing I’ve ever heard. God, I…. that’s.. I mean HOW?” He looked into his huge green eyes, confused but trusting, his lips pursed as if he were trying to form an answer to the string of words he had just spouted. “Do you want to know what it feels like?”

He swallowed. Then swallowed again. “I think so, yes.”

“You have to be sure. You have to want it or I won’t. You don’t have to.”

“But you are offering, you are saying you will pleasure me?”

“Yes”

“Please, I would… I would like you to.”

Afterwards, Scott grinned to himself and pushed the hair out of Midge’s eyes and that’s when he heard it. The soft, low rumbling that he first thought might be his stomach but as it ebbed and flowed the realization hit him like a ton of bricks. His Midge was purring, his happiness rolling out in waves. It was the sweetest sound he’d ever heard.

***** Continued

in

Chapter 18 and a half in the

Excerpt

book :)

Chapter 19 – Bacon

No one and nothing could have pried him away from his purring boy.  He listened to the gentle rumble, drowning in the calm.  It would soften and slow, and Scott would tell himself to memorize the sound so he’d never forget it or this feeling that seemed to go hand in hand with the music.  Soon though, it would start back up, stronger again, lulling him into believing it would go on forever.  When he realized it had stopped for good he wasn’t even sure how long it had been since he’d heard it, so gently had it faded.

Then he focused on other sounds and the way Midge’s breaths were coming in short little puffs against his chest and realized that he was asleep.  He did his best to not move, knowing it might wake him but soon his stomach did the deed for him.

“Mmorning.” Midge sucked in his breath and sat up a bit, propping up on his arm and resting his head in his hand.

Scott just smiled and chewed a bit on his lip until his stomach growled again and they both laughed.

“You are hungry, we should go to breakfast, yes?”

“Yes” he nodded.  “That sounds great.”  He stared but he couldn’t help it, Midge was adorable.

“Do you, oh no, I am so sorry!”  His face fell and he was suddenly all arms and legs as he tried to manuever around to pull off Scott’s pants.  “I am so sorry.”

“No, no, Midge, it’s fine.  Stop, please.  Honey, I wasn’t smiling at you because I wanted something.  I was smiling because you’re cute, and I’m happy.”

“But you, that is not fair.  It was amazing and…. SO amazing and I should—”

“You should enjoy it and relax.  Go get dressed.   For real this time, I mean it” he said, grinning.  “Go on.”  Once Midge sprung out of bed he got himself dressed and they met in the bathroom, brushing their teeth at the same time like an old married couple.  “Alright, it’s breakfast time.  Let’s go.”

***  ***  ***  ***  ***

“I think this is my favorite place in the whole world” Midge said, looking down at his plate which held 3 orders of bacon and a scrambled egg.  He took a drink from his liberally creamered milk and started arranging the bacon into piles.

“Okay, I give up.  What are the different piles?” Scott popped a huge piece of waffle in his mouth and waited.

“Oh, these are straight, then there are folded over ones, twisted ones, and these have the most fat.”

“Of course.  You know, some people just eat their bacon.  I never realized how boring that was until now.”

“Are you mocking me?” Midge asked.

“A little bit, but it’s all in fun.  I’m just teasing.”

“Okay.  Would you like a piece of my bacon?”

“Mmmhmm, a twisted one please.”

He handed it over, then quietly asked “How do you spell bacon?”

“B-A-C-O-N.  Why?”

“I am working on C and K and they make the same sounds, it is hard.  And C and H can go together at the beginning or end, but CK only goes on the end.”

He tilted his head, thinking.  “You’re right.  It’s hard and makes no sense, but you’ll learn it.  We can put some apps on your phone later so you can practice while I’m gone tomorrow.”

“Thank you.  I was wondering if you have a library card.”

“I… I don’t, no, but we can buy you whatever you want.  We should get you some easy books, and maybe some workbooks or something.  We’ll stop by the bookstore after we get your phone.  I should have thought of that.”

“I do not want you to spend so much money, I feel guilty.”

“It’s worth it, Midge, really.  Don’t worry.  Besides, once you and your angellic voice join the group, we’ll be famous.”

“I can not do that Scott, it is impossible.”

“Nothing is impossible Midge, nothing.  We’ll take one day at a time, okay?”

He knew better than to correct his master, although he was already getting away with so much that sometimes he forgot how things were.  He still couldn’t believe what had happened this morning, that Scott had… maybe it was different, maybe Scott was his friend.  Things were so mixed up and he didn’t know how to have this kind of relationship with anyone, and certainly not a human.  He was too happy to worry though so instead he nibbled on bacon.

---

The day flew by.  By the time they had gone home to shower and then gone out to get him a phone and bought three books at the bookstore, it was nap time.  They’d found a puzzle he had fallen in love with and grabbed a checkerboard as well.  Midge curled up on the bed with Marley while his phone charged and watched Scott pull his suitcase out from the closet.  “Are you sure I can not be of help?”

“No, it’s fine.  It’s really easier to do it myself, honestly.  Are you sure you don’t want to lay on the couch where it’s quieter?”

“I prefer to be with you, if you do not mind.”

“I don’t.  A couple of days ago I didn’t even know you and now I can’t imagine you anywhere but with me.  I’m not sure what that means, but there it is.”  He slowly packed, mentally running down his list.  He didn’t need too much for a one-night show but he always packed a little extra just in case.  “Don’t answer the door while I’m gone, okay?  Even if you’re wearing clothes.”

“I know.  I promise no one will know I am here. I will be good.”

“And you’ll call me if you need anything?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t want to leave Midge, I don’t.  I love to perform, I just wish you could come with me.  Maybe next time you can come along, when we have more time to prepare and arrange things.”

“I understand.”

“Okay, I’ll finish the rest in the morning.  Now, time for a nap and then I’ll teach you how to play checkers.”

“Thank you so much, I have always wanted to play!”

He tucked Midge in and turned off the light.  “I’ll be right outside if you need anything.  Sleep well.”

Chapter 20 – Zac

After Midge’s nap that evening they cuddled and played checkers during which Midge managed to somehow STILL be halfway on top of Scott, but he didn’t mind.  Scott knew he needed reassurance, was filling up his comfort tank for tomorrow night.  Really, it was so unbelievably cute to be needed so much, to be able to make him so happy by just sitting with him that he couldn’t help but enjoy it.  Besides, Midge was a killer checkers player and after the first game, he’d won every single time.

They tested his phone, even having a conversation while in separate rooms.  It didn’t last long though, the distance, because Midge snuck into the living room and curled up on the couch not long after Scott answered.  They loaded a few apps, not too many so as to not overwhelm him, and he learned how to work each one, sounding out the names and trying to read everything he came across.

At Midge’s prompting, they worked on how to spell Scott’s name and he wrote it, first and last, again and again.  After a late picnic dinner of sandwiches and chips eaten on the living room floor, Scott finally had to face the messages on his own phone.  He left Midge with his new papers and pencils at the counter and went into the bedroom to make some calls.  Yes, he had to admit that it wasn’t really his anymore, it was just theirs.  He had to get them a new apartment as soon as possible.

He talked to Kelly who wanted an update on how Midge was doing, and how HE was doing.  He tried to downplay everything but he knew he’d failed when she said they needed to ‘TALK’ tomorrow.  He knew her talks and she would pry everything out of him in no time.  If they didn’t make it in the music biz, she would make a great psychiatrist, or even better, a detective.  She could probably pull off FBI interrogator too, especially in heels.

After checking in with his mom and giving her a brief itinerary, he called Zachary.   Zac, ‘Mr. Hot-and-heavy’ turned ‘Break’ turned ‘Off and on again’ turned ‘Who knew?’ He owed him about four phone calls and barely waited for Zac’s hello before spitting out a “Hey.”

        “Hey hon, long time no see.  How have you been?” Zac asked.

“Good, really.  Busy, but great.  Leaving tomorrow actually.”

        “No!  Shit, when do you get back?”

“Saturday, it’s just a one-night.”

        “So you’re free after, right? Saturday night?”

“I… not really Zac.  I’m not sure, why what’s up?”

        “Hey, I’m in the car, can I stop by?  It’s Chris’ birthday Saturday and I have his card.  Why don’t I have you sign it in case you can’t make it?  I’ll fill you in on the plans while I’m there.”

There was no easy way out of this.  He wanted to chip in on a gift and signing the card now all made perfect sense.  If he didn’t have a Neko sitting in his living room he wouldn’t have hesitated to say yes.   “Yeah, that’s fine.  ETA?”

“10 or 15, not long.  See you then.”

Scott disconnected and walked to the living room spotting Midge hunched over his paper.  He’d heard him enter and turned those big eyes towards him.  “Hey, someone’s stopping by, do you mind…. maybe it’s easiest if you just go in the bedroom for a few minutes?”

“Of course.” Midge gathered his pencils and gently slid them into his case, then stacked everything in a neat pile which he tucked under one arm.  “Should I move my shoes?” he asked, spotting them at the front door.

“I don’t think he’ll notice but… yeah sure, why not?  I’m sorry.”

“It is fine, I understand.”

“You’re just complicated and I don’t mind but I’m not sure about telling Zac and he might not like seeing you here, even human.  This is just easier.”

“I am happy to help.  May I use the bathroom first?”

“Of course, and he won’t be here long.”  He watched Midge’s back disappear into his room, then cross into the hallway and he couldn’t help but feel he was doing something wrong.  Better safe than sorry.

At the quick double knock he opened the door, not needing to look to know that it was definitely Zac.  “Hi, come on in.”

Zac walked over to the couch he’d sat on a hundred times before and put his bag on the table, opening it and pulling out the birthday card.  “Do you have a pen?  I might….” he rummaged through his bag, finding everything but.

“I have one.”  He sat down and signed, then handed the pen to Zac. “Keep it, I have more.”  He opened his wallet and pulled out a twenty, handing it over as well.

        “I will take you up on that” he answered, smiling and putting the pen and the card back in his bag.  “He has dinner plans with the boyfriend, obviously, so we’re meeting after for drinks.  The Blue Heron, the new place next to Roxy’s, around 9.”

“That sounds good, I haven’t seen him in awhile.”

        “You haven’t seen anyone, but I really only care about me” he chuckled.  “Can we get together sometime?  The sooner the better?” The invitation behind the words was obvious.

He grinned back at Zac’s little half-crooked grin.  “Not sure I can, we can talk Saturday, alright?”

        “Works for me.  Have a great show, break a leg and all” he said, standing and heading towards the door.  He opened the front door and then turned, kissing Scott on the cheek.  “Miss you.  See you soon” and he was gone, heading down the stairs.

Scott knocked lightly on the bedroom door before walking in.  “Hey, all clear.”

“I was wondering if I could draw you.  Would you mind?”

“No, I don’t mind.  I don’t know why you’d want to draw my ugly mug, but feel free.  Do you mean right now?”

“Yes, I would like to do it before you leave, if it pleases you.”

“Sure, where do you want me?”

“Anywhere is fine, you do not need to pose or anything, you can do what you like.  I just did not want to do it without permission.”

They sat on the couch, Midge perched on one end with his sketchbook balanced on his thighs, tongue sticking out in concentration.   Scott tried not to stare and instead put in Finding Nemo which he’d seen a thousand times but never failed to entertain him.  His eyes watched the screen while his mind replayed the last few days in his head and tried to make sense of the days, weeks and years to come.

Chapter 21 – Trip

Scott didn’t try to fight it when Kelly practically threw him into Avi’s backseat. He’d hoped to have a bit more time before the interrogation but maybe it would help take his mind off leaving Midge. Scott had asked a hundred times and Midge had answered back patiently that he was fine, that he had been left lots of times and knew what to do, that he believed Scott would come back for him, that yes, he remembered how to use his phone and would talk to him soon, that he wasn’t scared, or worried or sad. He’d finally grabbed Scott’s arms and told him in no uncertain terms that he wasn’t a child. That had shut him up because he’d been treating him as one, even if he hadn’t meant to. So he’d grabbed his suitcase and headed out, waving one last time as he got into his car.

    "NOW, tell me everything" she said, her tone hushed enough that Avi and Kevin in the front seat wouldn't be bothered.

“I don’t know how to treat him” he answered, still stuck on his earlier thoughts. “He’s smart, and almost as old as I am but I treat him like he’s 10 sometimes. He’s innocent but has been through a LOT more than I have. He’s a bit cat but almost all boy and he’s learning to read already, Kake. He’s working so hard at it and he’s bright; hell he’ll probably be reading Twilight by the time I get back.”

    "Doubt he'd like the whole werewolf thing, Dot.  Carry on."

“You’re right, bad choice for him. I honestly thought he was slow, or just not as intelligent as humans in general, but that’s bull. He’s probably smarter than I am; he’s just uneducated which is a crying damn shame. He’s the sweetest, most kind person I’ve ever met. He demands nothing but gives everything he has, no questions asked. He’s so damn agreeable that sometimes I forget to even ask what he wants, and that pisses me off because it matters, obviously. He doesn’t hold a grudge, not even if it’s more than well deserved. The smallest things make him so incredibly happy that I want to do EVERYTHING for him.”

    "Closer... keep going."

“What?”

    "I'll tell you when you're done.  More dear, more."

“He makes me laugh and I’ve smiled so much this week that my damn mouth muscles ache.”

    "Not where I thought this was going but let's run with it.  So, *ahem* is *THAT* the only reason you're achy?"

His mouth hung open and he knew he’d already given it away.

    "Are you sure that's not INCREDIBLY stupid?"

“Not at all and I’m actually pretty sure it is. Look, I tried not to, really. He offered constantly and I turned him down over and over.”

    "Yeah, for what, a day?  Day and a half?"

“No, more than that. Two I think.” Scott pouted.

    "Oh, in that case, you deserve a medal.  Wow, such restraint.  I take back everything I said."

Scott just shook his head, ashamed of himself. “I know. I’m sorry.”

    "I just don't understand, didn't you say that he'd been owned, hurt, whatever?  He was a slave, right?"

“Yeah, but I didn’t hurt him Kat, and we didn’t sleep together or anything I… I just didn’t stop him. I tried, trust me. Look, I know you can’t get it, having girlie parts that I don’t understand in the slightest, but that boy is fucking magic and the fact that I can even WALK this morning without falling over, or into a ditch, is a miracle. I couldn’t form a coherant sentence for an hour afterwards and I’m not even kidding. He’s…… that tongue…. my GOD.”

    "Stop.  Stop now.  I do NOT want to know.  Girlie parts...  You are such an ass.  I am done with you Hoying, so done.  But listen to me, and listen well:  We are NOT finished with this discussion.  Shit needs handled."  She put her earbuds in and turned towards the window, leaning her head against Scott's shoulder.

He sent off a text to Midge and then kicked himself, realizing he probably couldn’t read it so he called instead. “Hey” he said when he heard the happy “HI!”

“How are you doing?” Midge asked.

“I’m good. We’re still driving, about halfway there. What are you up to?”

“I am drawing. I had a glass of milk and vacuumed the apartment and now I am working on a picture.”

“Sounds great, thanks for cleaning up. Do you need anything? Have any questions?”

“No, I am fine SiiSscott. Sorry. I am trying.”

“I know, it’s fine. I just wanted to check in and make sure you were okay. I’ll try to call again before the show and then definitely after, before bed. You can call me if you need me and I’ll pick up as long as I’m not performing.”

“Okay. Thank you for thinking of me, for calling. It is nice to hear your voice.”

“You too. Bye Midge.” Somehow the call had made him feel better and worse at the same time. Midge seemed fine, but he wasn’t sure he was.

After they’d checked into the hotel and made their way to the venue for a run-through and sound check, then had dinner and FINALLY peformed, Scott finally got a chance to have a private conversation with Midge. The phone rang four times and went to voicemail, so he waited as long as he could which was all of three seconds in his panic, and called again.

“Hello” Midge answered “I am sorry I am late.”

“It’s fine, is everything okay?”

“Yes, just fine. How are you? How was your show?”

“It was amazing, went really well. The crowd was really energetic and into it and I had a blast. How was your day?”

“I have not done much since you called last time, just worked on my drawing and played the reading game. I had some food and now I am in bed. Is it okay, that I sleep in your bed?”

“Absolutely. Wish I was there. Not only does this bed suck but it also doesn’t have you in it.”

“No, it does not. I am here.”

“Are you being smart with me?”

“I… it was a joke. I am sorry.”

“No, no, it’s good. I don’t quite have your sense of humor pegged yet, but I’m getting there. Look, we’re going to try to leave early tomorrow, Kevin has a thing to do so I should be home by lunchtime, okay? I should get some sleep and I’ll call you in the morning.”

“Alright, I will talk to you tomorrow. Oh, I almost forgot, is it okay if I use some tape?”

Scott chuckled “No, absolutely not. Kidding. Seriously Midge, what’s mine is yours. Use all of it if you want.”

“I do not need all of it, I do not think, but thank you. Goodnight Scott.”

“Goodnight Midge. Sleep tight.”

Chapter 22 – Art

Scott was nervous and excited and more than ready to be home.  Midge had been cryptic during their phone call this morning, asking for forgiveness just in case Scott didn’t like something.   Midge repeated over and over that he had tried, and he hoped Scott liked it and if not, to please forgive him because he had done it for him, hoping that he’d like it.  What was ‘IT’?   He had no clue.  Midge refused to tell him, well, begged to not have to and so he’d dropped it.

After a very early, long morning he lugged his suitcase up the stairs and unlocked the door.  Midge was there waiting for him, and took his suitcase, wheeling it into his bedroom before coming back to stand in the hallway, watching him.  “I don’t even get a hug?”  Almost immediately he had an ear tickling his chin, Midge’s arms wrapped around his back and a tail wrapped around his thigh.  “There we go, much better. So…” he asked, forcing some space between them “Do you want to show me something?”

Midge nodded while biting his lower lip, then turned and walked to the wall across from the television, leading towards the hall.

Scott looked above Midge’s head and gasped, shocked.  On his formerly boring, blank wall were now eight of the most amazing charcoal  and pastel drawings he had ever seen.  They were arranged in a rectangle, four on top and four below.  “Midge……… my GOD these are amazing.”

He let out a deep breath, his shoulders sagging with relief.  “I wanted to show you, to say thank you.  They come down of course I just wanted… I thought they looked pretty.”

“They’re gorgeous.”  He stepped closer, putting his arm around Midge’s shoulders and angling him with him so they both faced the wall.

The first in the series was an orange being held in a small hand.  The fact that he could tell it was a freaking orange when it was done in charcoal was boggling his mind, but there was no doubt.  This was the night they met, when Midge had offered up the fruit to Scott’s outstretched hand.  Next was Scott’s couch, a tiny figure curled up on it in blankets.  Then a startling realistic portrait of his new shoes, lined up perfectly on the mat where they were currently sitting.  Finally a plate holding several pieces of bacon, a fork and knife held in small hands ready to cut it.

The next row began with a figure in green plaid pajamas, his features vague but the patterning on the clothes done in amazing texture with his new pastels.  Second was Marley, but it wasn’t the stuffed Marley nor what Scott imagined she looked like in person, rather a perfect mixture of the two.  Light touches of pastels made her eyes sparkle and her grin come alive.  Next a cartoon figure, the hero from the movie they had gone to see and finally him, seen through a window standing next to his car, waving.

“I don’t know what to say.  You’re SO good!  How did you do all these?  I’m… wow, I’m speechless Midge, really.”

“It is the story of us, of some of the times you made me happy, but I could not remember where to put the bacon because we had it two days.  I think it is backwards.  I can fix it.”

“It’s awesome, don’t worry about it.  This may be the sweetest thing anyone’s ever done for me.  I can’t get over how good you are.  I mean, these are REALLY good.  You could sell them.  Not these, obviously, but other ones.  All you need is a website and you’d be set.”  The thought percolated in his head, it was a way for Midge to support himself without having to interact with people very much.  A way to give him independence.

“I do not know how or… but I will do whatever you like.  It would be good to repay you for all the things you have bought.”

“No, no, I just thought it would be money for YOU, so you could be safe.”

“Freedom?”

“Yes, freedom, or to help your family, or just to save if you ever need it.  We’ll figure it out.  Is it time for your cat nap yet?  I’m tired.”

“I would love to nap with you.”  He started stripping on the way to the bedroom, slipping under the covers with a contented sigh.  When Scott slid in next to him he waited for his arm to move up and then snuggled against his side and placed kisses on his chest and against his heart.  “It is good to hear your beat again, I missed it.”

“And I missed you, little one.  Now get some sleep and keep your hands to yourself; there’s time for fun later.”

“Funnnnn” he answered, his voice seductive.  “I like fun.”

“And I like you.”

“I have so many hobbies now.  Drawing, playing my reading game, pleasuring you.   I have never had so much fun before.”

“Oh Midgey, what am I going to do with you?”

“Whatever you like.”

“Shhhh!  Stop that” he growled.  “Goodnight Midge.”

Chapter 23 – Afterparty

Scott stretched, rolling his head to the side and yawning.  Such a good nap.   “Midge?” he called when he realized he wasn’t in bed.

“Yes?” came his voice from the floor.  He was sitting against the foot of the bed, staring out the window with his sketch pad in his lap.

“Midge, some friends of mine are having a party tonight to celebrate Chris’ birthday.”

“Yes, I know.”

“Huh?”

“You and your boyfriend Zac will go have drinks?”

“He’s not my boyfriend.  We dated, before, but we’re not… we’re just not.  How did you know about that?  Ooh…. you  could hear us, right?  Got it.  Yeah, I’d like to go but you can come too, if you want.”

“To the party?  Could we not do it here, after?”

“Do what?  You want me to invite Zac here afterwards?  Why?”

“And Chris, of course with his boyfriend, if you want.  It is your choice.  Whoever you decide.”

“Nervous about being in public?  I’ll be there, it’ll be okay.  We’ll have a few drinks and then come home, no biggie.  But you don’t have to come if you don’t want to.  It’s your choice.”

“I….I have a question.  May I ask?”

“I’ve never stopped you before Midge, what is it?”

“After you and Zac have drinks, will you call me on the way home? How should I present?  Can I be prepared?”

“I don’t know what you’re asking me; you’re not making sense.  I’m having flashbacks to the first night we met.”

“I am just trying to understand what you expect from me because you are… everyone is different.”

Scott just shook his head, confused.

“I just wondered if I should do anything special and if they are nice like you?”

“Nothing special required, oh, do you mean like clothes?  But yeah, they’re all really good guys, you don’t need to be afraid of them or anything.  Besides, I’ll be with you.”

“Okay, I will try not to be.  Will it be like with you and me or… will you let them use me?”

“WHAAAAAAT?  Wait, hold on.  Back up.  WHAT?”

“I just…. I would rather know, if it is alright with you, what to expect.  If I do not know I will think everything and worry too much.”

“It is SO not that kind of party.  Come here.”  He pulled Midge into his arms when he came to stand beside the bed.  “I… Do you think I’m going to bring a bunch of guys home and let them fuck you?  As if I COULD let them, only you can do that, but…. is that what you think?”

“Of course, I mean, if I do not have to go.  Someone else will entertain there, right?  Or?”

“Wait, please, let me try to figure out what the HELL is going on right now.”  He cleared his throat and rubbed Midge’s head, trying to get him to relax.  “Okay, so I mention drinks at a birthday party and you end up asking me if we’re going to have an 0rgy afterwards.  More of a gang bang though, I guess.  Um, I’m not sure how we got from one to the other.  Has this happened before? Ah, it has, it must have.  Something like this happened before.  Jesus.  Can you help me understand without giving me any details at all?”

“It is a birthday so I thought…. I just, I am sorry.  I misunderstood.”

“Understatement of the millenium.  Midge, I won’t even use you, how could you think I’d bring a whole damn posse through the bedroom like a damn hooker Santa at Christmas?  And how could you sit there all calm and talk about it?  Like you’d actually do it?”  He stuttered then, trying to form words but he ended up just puffing his cheeks and blowing air out, instead.  “I don’t understand you at all.  Are you really that broken?  I’m so sorry.”

“I did not mean to make you sad.  I should not have asked.  I had learned to keep my stupid mouth shut but you make me think I am safe and I forget to protect myself.”

“But that’s just it, Midge, how can you regret asking but not the fact that you would have done it?  You would have, wouldn’t you?  If I said, right now, for you to get on all fours on the bed so me and my closest friends could all come use you, you’d do it, wouldn’t you?”  He waited then, refusing to speak again until he’d answered the question.  Seconds turned into minutes but still he waited.

“I do not know. Probably.”

“At least there’s some fucking doubt.  I guess that’s something.  Okay, a few things.  1.  I’d like you to come to the party tonight.  Everyone will wear clothes.  There will be no entertainment.  Got it?  2. I would NEVER, quote unquote LET someone fuck you.  3. You are completely in charge of what happens to your body.  I… I hope you’ll understand that some day.  4. I am sorry if I scared you at any point during this conversation.  What number am I on?”

“Five.”

“5. I am so, so sorry that it happened before.  6. I promised you I would do my best to take care of you and not hurt you and I don’t know how to get through your head that THIS would absolutely fall under that category.  7. I’m not mad, at ALL, at you, so please stop shaking.”

---

Midge stuck to Scott’s side like glue and sipped his club soda, a little overwhelmed but completely fascinated by all the people, and the lights, and the awesome music playing.  He got brave eventually and they danced, and he even took a turn playing the stick and ball table game.  It wasn’t nearly as easy to learn as checkers though.

When they were ready to leave, Zac walked them out to the car.

        “Midge, can I talk to you for a second?”

He looked at Scott who nodded and walked around to the drivers side.  “Yes, I think so.”

        “Look, I know this may sound strange, and you probably have no idea what I’m talking about” he whispered.  “But, is there any chance you’re a Neko?”

“Scott!” he yelled, backing up.

“What?  What did you do Zac?” he asked, coming over to stand between them.

        “Nothing, although that sure as hell answers THAT question.  Look, I’m cool.  It’s fine.  I know one, actually, that’s why I asked.  Does he know?” he asked Midge, nodding towards Scott.

“Yes, he knows.  Who do you know?  What is its name?”  Midge came forward, his curiousity compensating for his fright.

        “Her name is Misty.”

“Does she look like me, with long hair with a white streak in it?”

        “Yeah, exactly, do you know her?”

“Where is she?”  He knew he shouldn’t be so bold with a human but in that moment he didn’t care.

        “With my uncle, in Arizona.  You know her?”

“Is he Sebastian?  She is my sister.  Can I see her?  I want to see her!”  He pulled on Scott’s sleeves, begging.  “Or talk to her?  Please?  Is she okay?  Is she happy?”

“Calm down Midge, we’ll sort it out, okay?  Wow, are you serious Zac?  You’re not fucking with us are you because I would hate to kill you.”

        “No, no, I swear.  I haven’t seen her in almost a year, but yeah, my uncle is Sebastian so that must be her.  I can call him and see if we can visit, if you want.”

Midge held his breath, looking to Scott and saying a million silent prayers.

“Make it so Captain Kirk.”

Chapter 24 – Family

Midge was silent the entire ride home and while Scott was used to him not being overly talkative, this silence after what seemed like great news was surprising. He reached over and took his hand, giving it a squeeze. “Are you okay?”

“Yes, of course. Thank you.”

“You’re quiet.”

“I am… thinking.”

“It’s a lot to take in. I knew about Marley, but not about Misty. How many sisters do you have?”

“Three. And one brother, if he is still alive.”

Scott didn’t want to bring up bad memories, but he couldn’t help but be curious and was used to coaxing information out of Midge.  “Tell me about them all, please.”

“Misty is my older sister by 2 years, then came Marley and me. Cally and Chet are twins as well, 6 years younger than me.”

“So 3 M’s and two C’s, is it a pattern?”

“Different fathers. It is customary. My father’s name is Mitt, theirs is Chaz. My mother’s name is Sally.”

Scott couldn’t help but notice the hesitancy with which Midge answered.  “Do you not want to talk about them or what? Should I not ask?”

“I am sorry Sir, I did not mean to be rude.”

“Scott.”

“I am sorry, again, for my forgetfulness.”

“It’s a habit, I get it. But you didn’t answer the question, which you’re very good at, by the way.” He parked the car and he let the subject drop until they went inside. “Are you upset about our talk earlier, about the party? You seemed okay afterwards and at the bar.”

“I am fine. What can I do for you?”

“You can tell me what’s going on in that head of yours. Talk.  Please.”  Scott felt like every conversation was a tug of war and he wished Midge would just open up and talk.

“I am not used to talking, I apologize. I have not really had the chance in a long time.”

“You dealt with a lot of stuff on your own, okay, I get that. But you don’t have to now, if you don’t want to. I’m here.”

“Must I?”

“No” Scott sighed, smiling a shy grin that didn’t reach his eyes.

“But it would please you for me to talk?”

“Yes, but only if you want to Midge. If not, that’s okay too.”

“I feel very… jumpy. Like I am falling out of one of those planes, like those crazy people with parachutes but I’m not sure I even have one. I do not know what is happening. Before, when things were bad, I got used to it. You get numb and even though it is hard, you know what to expect, what to do, what will happen. This uncertainty is difficult. My family was the last thing I had to lose but now… maybe I have something to lose again and it is scary.”

“I can’t begin to know how that feels, but do know how much the unknown can wear you down, how scary it can be. I’m sorry. I’ll help, in any way I can. I’ll try to get you together with Misty, somehow, some way.”

“It would….it would be wonderful to see her again, to know she is alright. Scott… if we go, if we are able, are you willing to claim me? It is not safe for me otherwise.”

“What do you mean Midge?”

“You must collar me and accept ownership. It is how it is done and Misty’s master knows these things.”

“If we need to pretend to keep you safe, that’s fine. I’ll do whatever I need to do to protect you, and I want you to be able to see her.”

“I can not pretend Scott. If I let you collar me, I will be yours. To take back my collar would be a huge disgrace and I could not stand it. You must decide if you want me. I understand you may not, and that is, that is fine.”

Scott crawled into bed, glad that Midge followed him. “We’ll work something out. But you’re saying that if I don’t agree to own you, you won’t see your sister. Is that right?”

“Yes. I could talk to her maybe, perhaps her master would let her call me if we gave Zac my phone number, but I could not see her. It would be dangerous.”

“That’s a lot of power to put in my hands Midge, control that I do not want.” They lay in the dark for several minutes, Scott holding him tight. “Is she what you have to lose? You feel like you’re letting her go all over again?”

“No you silly human, no. You are. Goodnight Scott.”

Scott smiled and sniffled, fighting back the tears that pricked his eyelids. “I love you too, little one.”

Chapter 25 – Beach

Scott woke with Midge so wrapped up in him and the blankets that he honestly wasn’t sure how to get out of bed. “Good morning sleepyhead, you’re usually up before me.”

Midge lifted his head slowly, then batted his eyes open a few times. “I was awake during the night, I could not sleep.”

“You could have woken me up if you needed me.”

“Yet you are angry when I say the same thing to you. But I was fine. I had milk and drew a picture.”

“It’s because of WHY you said it, Midge, that’s all. When you say it out of love I won’t be upset.”

“You have spoken of love a lot lately. I have seen movies, I know what it is supposed to be but… I do not know. Never mind.”

Scott wasn’t nearly awake enough for a discussion about emotions.  “It can wait till later, I think. I have the entire day off, we don’t have rehearsal on Sundays. What would you like to do?”

“Whatever you would like.”

“Nope, not happening. YOU have to chose” he said, using his hands to stick Midge’s hair out in all different directions.

“You are making me look silly.”

“Yep.”

“You are silly.”  And Scott was silly, but it didn’t stop Midge from smiling.

“Yep. So what’ll it be?”

“Scott, I understand the gift, and I thank you, but I have no idea what I would like to do. How do I decide? I do not know my options. I would like to do anything.”

“I see, I see. Well, we could go to the beach and play arcade games and eat ice cream. We could drive down to the aquarium. We could go to an amusement park. There are museums around, if you would like to see art.”

“The beach? How can I go?”

“I know you don’t like to swim but what did you do last time you went?”

“I have never been.”

“You’ve….. of course you haven’t. Okay, so jeans, t-shirt and a hat. No problem. You can feel the sand in your toes and we can build a sand castle. How does that sound?”

Midge’s eyes were staring at the ceiling, his thoughts already at the ocean. “I would love to see it.”

---

They had just finished a go-cart race which Scott won simply because Midge kept getting the gas and brake pedals mixed up, when Scott’s phone rang out Zac’s ringtone. He pulled them onto a bench and answered. “Hey”

    "I talked to Uncle Sebastian and he's good with a visit.  I wasn't going to tell him about Midge but I realized that if I figured him out, Sebastian would too, especially once the brother/sister thing comes out.  I hope that's okay."

“Yeah, I don’t see how we can get around that one. We have something to handle first, but when are you thinking?”

    "I could take off Thursday and Friday and make a weekend of it.  You guys could come back whenever, obviously.  Does that work?"

“I’ll run it by him and let you know tonight, okay?”

    Zac had been hoping for an immediate answer, given the trouble he'd gone to, but Scott's schedule had always been difficult.  "Yep, have to take off the time so let me know either way before morning."

“You got it, and thanks. Really.”

    "No problem Scott. Talk to you later."

“So, did you hear all of that or just my end?” he asked, smirking at Midge.

“I heard a few words of his, but not all.”

“We are good to go on Thursday, if that works for you. His uncle is fine with us visiting. I’ll get tickets and we can head down.”

“Tickets?”

“Yeah, not driving……….. shit, you don’t have any ID, do you?”

“No”

“It’s fine, it’s not really that far. It’ll work. Does ice cream and a walk along the water sound good to you?”

“Yes. Yes it does.”

“No ‘whatever you’d like’?? That is progress.”

They walked along the water, shoes in a bag thrown over Scott’s shoulder and milkshakes in their hands. Every other step, it seemed, Midge stopped to look down at a piece of shell, or a rock, or a piece of weathered glass. Once his shake was finished he rinsed his cup out in the water and started filling it.

“Looking for anything in particular?” Scott asked, watching Midge more than the scenery.

“Pretty things. Something Misty might like. Memories.”

He took a deep breath, filling his lungs. There was a peace being with Midge, a sense of purpose and of being whole, and solid. It made no sense but it had to be love, there was no other word he could think of that could possibly describe even half of what he felt. When they reached one of the old piers he took Midge’s hand and led him towards the end.

“Is it safe? Where does it go?”

“It goes to a memory, Midge.” He stopped at the end and turned so they were facing each other. He stepped close, encouraged by the curiosity in Midge’s wide eyes. When he leaned down and claimed his lips, Midge jerked back suddenly but Scott stayed still and soon felt him return, his lips melding into his own just as his body always did. He went slowly, and gently, letting him catch up and meet him halfway.

Midge felt the edges of Scott’s lips turn up just a tad and he pulled back in time to see the smile spread across his face. Embarrassed, he glanced down but a finger was soon lifting his chin. “You have the ocean in your eyes and you kissed me.”

“Yes, yes I did.” He watched Midge lick his lips and then bite his lower one between his teeth. “I’d like to do it again, if you want me to.”

“Please.”

Chapter 26 – Tickle

They got back from the beach windblown and sunkissed and more than ready for a nap. Scott settled Midge into bed and then got online to google everything he could about Neko ownership. There wasn’t much, certainly not anything nearly as official as Midge seemed to know. Most of it was fetish stuff, or cosplay, or random stories written by people who had obviously never met a Neko.

There were only a few days before the trip to Arizona and he had NO idea what to do about this collaring and owning business. He didn’t want either; he wanted Midge to be free to say, and do, and think, and experience anything and everything he wanted. He loved Midge wide-eyed and sassy-mouthed more than anything in the world and he wanted more.

He needed it explained, needed to know exactly why things would change, and how. Would Midge retreat back into his shell once he was ‘owned’ again? Because to Scott, nothing would change. He would never, ever treat him harshly or like a slave, sex or otherwise. But he’d seen the look in Midge’s eyes, the hope, the desire. It was there, something he needed and wanted, but Scott couldn’t fathom what it was. What did Midge need from him? Could he provide it?

He gave up his search and wandered into the bedroom. He was as quiet as possible, even though he knew Midge would hear him either way, it just seemed the right thing to do.

“I am glad you are here. I warmed up the bed for you.” Midge said, uncurling slightly and scooting back to give Scott room to get in.

“This bed is becoming one of my favorite places.”

“This nook” he said, moving in “IS my favorite place.”

“Would you still say that if I owned you?”

He pulled his head back, surprised at the question. “I am not sure I understand.”

“I don’t either, but we need to talk about things. It should wait until tomorrow though, this is our day. Forget I asked.” He ran his fingers up and down Midge’s arm until he flinched. “Are you ticklish?”

“I… I have a few spots. Yes. I can control it if the movement is slow, but it is harder if it is done on purpose.”

“I would like to hear you laugh until you can’t stand it anymore and you’re breathless. Does it upset you?”

“To laugh?”

“No, silly boy, to be tickled.”

“I can not say I enjoy it, but if it would please you I do not mind.”

“You can tickle me back.”

Midge’s eyes widened in surprise.  “I can? Well I guess that changes things. Sounds more like fun.”

His eyes lit up then and he turned on his side. “Ready?”

“You mean now? Oh, yes, if you would like.”

Scott started slow, his fingers feather light across his side, just below his ribs. He watched Midge’s face, memorizing where he jumped and where he grinned. Then, once he had a plan of attack, he went all in.

Midge screamed and thrashed, making desperate attempts to tickle Scott but he couldn’t see or really control his limbs. The crazy half-sobs that came out of his mouth sounded a lot like laughter but they didn’t feel like it. Then, in desperation, he swung his tail out until he connected with something hard.

“OWWW! You little SHIT!” Scott reached up to protect his head and that’s when he got blasted full out by a pillow.

Midge was on his feet, pillow in hand. He swung down with all his might and thwacked Scott in the chest again.

“Okay, okay, truce! I’ll stop!” he said, laughing harder than he had in months.

“Promise?” Midge asked, pillow lifted over his head and ready to strike.

“Yes, yes, I promise” he gasped. His smile was so wide that his jaw ached, but his eyes were drinking in the sight of Midge towering above him, teasing him. “You’re beautiful all ruffled.”

“Did I laugh enough for you Scott?”

“Yeah, I have to admit that I had a lot of fun. How about you?”

“I prefer other kinds of fun, if it is my choice.”

“Well that seems fair, it should be your turn. Want me to come up there?”

“No, I like you right where you are.” Midge dropped the pillow then and dropped to his knees. He may not say the word to himself or anyone else, but what he did then was much, much more than just training.

---

That evening Midge did his best to ignore the coming Thursday and the question of whether or not Scott would want to collar him. He pushed the uncertainty down and enjoyed the happy while he still had it. He knew how precarious his current life was and that this joy may have to last him a very, very long time.

But oh, how much joy there was. His head was in Scott’s lap and he was getting rubbed. The silly movie on the television was probably his new favorite, although it was hard to beat the Hero. They’d popped popcorn and a huge bowl sat on the table in front of him, well within reach. He grabbed a few pieces and ate them one at a time, savoring them.

Chapter 27 – Breakfast

Scott woke to the smell of coffee, and…. food. He ran his fingers through his hair and detoured by the kitchen on his way to the bathroom.  “You’re cooking breakfast?”

“I hope it is okay.”

“It it ALWAYS okay.  I’ll be right back.”  A few minutes later there was a stack of pancakes and a steaming cup of coffee at his usual place on the counter.  “Wow” he said, sitting down.  “Do you need any help?” he asked when a second plate didn’t appear.

“No, I just need to cook mine.  Please, eat.”

He sipped his coffee for a moment and when Midge sat down beside him he dug in.  They ate in easy silence, his knee pressed against Midge’s under the counter.  “Once the coffee kicks in and I’m alive, we need to talk about the whole…” he waved his fork in a circle “Whatever I have to do to take you to Arizona thing.”

“You do not even like the words?  I am not sure how to talk about it without them, but I can try.”

“No, I guess if we’re going to consider the damn concept I have to at least accept the words.  You said I had to collar you, do you mean like a real collar, around your neck like a damn dog?”

“I am NOT a DOG!”  He immediately bowed his head  “I am sorry, so sorry Sir. Please, I did not-”

“Look at me.”  He waited a moment and hated the look in Midge’s eyes when he finally did.  “It’s fine.  You’re allowed to have feelings, and get mad at me.  I didn’t mean to compare you, but, well, yeah I did.  You’re right, you’re NOT a dog and that’s why I can’t put a collar on you, do you understand what I mean?  Am I making sense?”

“Yes, but it is not… I guess it is the same, in some ways.  I should not have been angry.”

“But go back, we need to go slow because I don’t understand.   Is that what you mean when you say collar?”

“Yes, a mark of ownership around my neck.”

“I can’t do that.  There’s no way, unless it’s like a necklace or something.  Not a locked, buckled damn collar that I can hook a leash to or chain you up with.  That’s what they did before, right?  I won’t.”

“I… I guess it could be anything of your choosing.  It is usually a collar but… I do not think it must be.”

“How about a bracelet?  That would be even better, I might be able to handle that.  I mean, who are we trying to impress?  Other owners, you, me?  Who is it for Midge?”

“It is for me.  And for you, of course.”

“For you?  Why would you want one?”

“It is security, safety, a home.  Being wanted.”

“But if it’s for you, why do we have to do it before Arizona?  I don’t understand how it makes you safe.”

“It is hard to explain.  An owned Neko acts differently, defers differently, is protective.  It is obvious to others.  Once you see it, it will be obvious to you as well.  I  do already act much as I would, in many ways, but I worry about  my reactions if I were tested.”

“So, let me get this straight.  I ‘collar’ you somehow and you magically change, which, by the way, is NOT okay with me, and everyone else knows it.  Some asshole who wants to own you can walk up and just KNOW that you’re not available?”

“You say it oddly, and I know you are making fun, but the basic premise is correct.”

“I don’t want you to act differently.  I love the ‘you’ I get to see sometimes, like when you got brave enough to hit me in the head last night, or when you actually tell me how you feel.  I want MORE of that, not…. not less.”

“It would make me more brave, in some ways.”

Scott stuffed another bite of pancake into his mouth, trying to grasp everything Midge had already told him.  “Explain.  I want to understand.  If I have to make a decision like this, I need to know everything.”

“I would feel more secure.  I would defend you, support you no matter what happened.  I will not obey the orders of other humans.  When it is good, ownership is what all Nekos strive for.  I WANT to be owned, by someone kind, someone good.  I know you do not like Trent, but I was happy with him because I was his.  It is a release, a comfort to not worry.”

“Okay, can I think about all of that for awhile?  I need it to sink in.  I wish I knew other Nekos, other owners who weren’t, well, who were more like us.  I wish someone could help me.  I wonder if Sebastian and Misty are like us.”

“I can only hope he brings her half as much joy as I have with you.”

“You’re sweet, thank you.”  Scott kissed him then, thoroughly, pulling him onto his lap when Midge needed more contact.  Afterwards he rested his forehead against his.  “Does kissing me bring back bad memories Midge?  I hate to ruin the moment, but I have to know if it bothers you.  I don’t think you’d tell me unless I ask.”

“No.  I have no memories good or bad.  I like it very much.”

“No…… memories.  You’ve never been kissed?”  His look of shock changed into a grin.  “I kinda like that I’m your first, even if that makes me a caveman.”

“You are no caveman, Scott.  In fact you have almost no hair.  I meant to ask how you would like my hair.  I can remove any you do not like.”

“I….. no, no, it’s fine.  You are perfect just as you are.  Although these little random ones on your chest do amuse me.  You have big patches and then, like this one” he pointed “is all lonely.”

“You would like me to be more, how do I say it, even?”

“No, no, don’t change a thing.  Please.  It’s your body and it’s perfect.  Speaking of bodies, mine is a bit ripe and I need a shower.  I do my best thinking in the shower, so it may be awhile.”

“I will clean up, and perhaps work on my reading if that pleases you.”

“You reading pleases me very, very much.  After rehearsal we can read your books together if you’d like.”

“Thank you, I would very much like your help.”

Chapter 28 – Shower

Scott ran out of the bathroom naked, dripping all over the floor. “MIDGE!”

“What is wrong? How can I be of service?” he asked alarmed, jumping to his feet.

“Come in here with me, please!” He grabbed his hand and scurried back into the bathroom, freezing. He released Midge’s hand and jumped back into the still-running shower. “Damn it’s cold out there. Sit down, we need to talk.”

“Out here? Or in the shower?”

“There, wait, no… I mean yes, there. I won’t be able to think with you in here and I almost have it. I have an idea. Are you with me?”

“I am not sure that I am because I am out here but you say this is your preference? The rug is wet, may I sit on the toilet seat?”

“Of course, I don’t care. Or on a towel, whatever. Listen, are you ready?”

“I do not know what is going to happen, so I can not be certain but I will do my best.”

“MIDGE! You drive me to distraction silly boy. Listen, there’s nothing wrong, I’ve been thinking.”

“Oh, alright.” he said, from his perch on the seat. He pulled his legs up and wrapped his tail around them.

“So this whole ‘ownership’ thing started me thinking about ‘I love Lucy’ . Have you seen that show?”

Midge was not often speechless but he was now. Often he wasn’t sure how to properly phrase what he was saying so as to be proper, but the thoughts were always there. He decided that no matter how long he spent with Scott, he might never understand how his mind worked. “I do not think so.”

“Okay, are you familiar with marriage?”

“Yes.”

“Familiar with 1950’s housewife with the dominant husband type of marriage?”

“Less so, but I do know it has changed recently, right? Some are more relaxed.”

“Exactly, so the old version seems a bit similar to ownership. Is it? Is it close enough that you could tell me the similarities and differences and maybe, just MAAAAYBE I could wrap my head around this?”

“Perhaps. There are similarities.”

“Okay, so tell me everything in comparisons. Like, in marriage you wear rings but instead you would wear a collar, right? Do they symbolize the same things? This is what got me thinking about it, so is that right and are there other things like that?” he asked, his words tumbling over each other.

“You are very excited. I will do my best. Yes, in marriage the ring is a sign to others that you are married, right? And that you are committed so yes, I think it is the same. But there are many differences, it is not like marriage.”

“Keep going, what are other similarities and differences?”

“In marriage you are expected to only have one wife or husband and to be faithful to them, that is not the same. A master may have sex with and love anyone they like. They may have other Nekos. Some Nekos are owned by married couples.”

“But you couldn’t, right? Seems a bit unfair to you, but a lot of marriages are unfair too, I guess. And selling you or giving you to someone else would be like getting divorced?”

“Yes, I think it is similar.”

“And that’s why you said you’d be sad if you had to take the collar off when the visit was over.”

“Yes. It would mean you did not want me any more.”

“But you once told me that you would never run away if you were owned, that you would not be bad. What if you wanted to leave? What if YOU wanted a divorce?”

“I would not.”

Scott sighed so loudly that it could be heard even over the water beating against the stall floor. “Not okay with that part.”

“Would you want me to leave?” he asked, perplexed.

“If you were unhappy or lonely and I…. I mean I don’t WANT you to, but I would want to know that you knew you could.”

“I am sorry Si-Scott, I did not follow that time.”

“Why would I ever want to sell you? I get to have you and whoever else I want, right? I mean, in your version. But what if I ignored you, fell in love with someone else and mistreated you? You would want to leave and I would want you to be able to.”

“Would you not know if I was unhappy? And then you could sell me.”

“Of course I would know, I think. Wait, maybe not. I don’t know, no, I don’t know if I would. You’re really good at seeming okay even when you’re not, I think. You said you got used to it. If I wasn’t paying attention, I might not see it. Would you tell me? I could never sell you, but I’d let you leave.”

“I guess you could tell me that if I was unhappy, I should talk to you.”

“Wait, so I could make rules that made it more fair, even if they went against what you… what you think of as ownership?” He turned the water off and reached out an arm, grabbing the towel from the rack and drying off.

“You have made many odd rules already and I do my best to follow them.”

“I feel a little bit like I rubbed a genie lamp and if I don’t phrase things exactly right, neither of us get what we want.”

Midge stood when Scott opened the door and followed him into the bedroom, curling up on the bed while he got dressed.

“I never thought I’d consider marrying someone I’ve only known two weeks. This is crazy.” He pulled on his jeans and buttoned up his shirt. “I’m not sure a relationship of less than equals would make me happy, long term. I don’t know if, in time, you could trust me enough to be what I need.”

“I do not know if I would please you. I would do my best.”

“Oh Midgey, I know. It’s not… that sounded harsh. Come here.” Scott sat on the bed and motioned him to come in for a hug. “How do I know how our relationship would change? How we would change and grow? We’re so young. How do I know how I would feel in a year, or 5, or 10?”

“I am not sure anyone does. It is not possible, is it? To know?”

“But you seem so sure.”

“It is the best of my options, by far. It is not a hard choice for me. That is a huge difference between us.”

“What are your options, Midge?”

“You could decide to not claim me and we continue like this until you are tired of me, or I displease you. Perhaps it is a long time, perhaps not. I live each day with joy but uncertainty. I worry each time we go out that someone may try to claim me, or take me from you. But I am comfortable, and happy, and will gladly continue this way if you choose. Or you can claim me, and make me yours. I will have a home, and be of service.”

“Until I’m tired of you.”

“Yes, of course. You may do with me as you wish. Or you decide now that you do not want me. I leave and whatever happens, happens. I do not know. But it is not my choice, what happens.

“But you want me to collar you?”

“Yes, if it is your wish.”

“Will you act the same? Would you hit me with your tail when I tickle you too much? Would you keep trying to NOT call me Sir? Would you be happy?”

“I would… if those things please you I would continue.”

“But what pleases YOU? You must have things YOU want. You can’t just want to please me. I get that it makes you happy but if I want to get a dog or make you sleep on the floor or eat cat food, THAT would not make you happy even if it DID please me, right?”

“I would do those things.”

“But it would not make you happy, right? You do not WANT to do them?”

“I would prefer not to.”

“Okay, so why can’t you SAY that? Just say what you mean. When I ask if you want collared you need to answer me in a way that I can understand, that tells me how you really feel. You can’t just agree to everything whether you like it or not. So can we please try again? Do you want to belong to me?’

“Yes” he said meekly.

“Will you still want to tell me your feelings, smack me upside the head, call me Scott, be my friend?”

“Yes”

“Would you like me to bring you home some Cat Chow for dinner?”

He paused. “It would not be my first choice… I mean no, I would not.”

Scott sighed, feeling like he’d just won a boxing match. He was sore, and bruised, but this was a major victory. “Thank you, although a ‘fuck no’ would have been much closer to what you were thinking, I’m sure. I have rehearsal but I’ll be back, okay? I would invite you but it’s not just us four today. Maybe we both need a little time to think, too. At least I do.” He tilted his chin up and gave him a quick kiss. “Call me if you need me, okay?”

Midge followed him into the living room. He’d never been so forward with a human before. He’d been beaten and starved for much, much less but somehow it was what Scott prefered and he didn’t seem at all angry. No, it pleased him, that was obvious. He waved good-bye as Scott opened the front door and smiled at him.
Good-bye Master.

Chapter 29 – Plans

Scott almost made it out of rehearsal but Avi and Kevin weren’t finished with him yet.

    "Sit down bro, unless you've got a fire to put out" Kevin said, his chair tilted back against the wall.

“What do you need?” Scott asked, looking back and forth between Kevin and Avi, who had also pulled up a chair.

    "Did you get a chance to work with Midge any?  Teach him any songs?  Record anything for us to hear?" Avi asked.

“No. I haven’t had the chance. And honestly, guys, this is not something that’s going to happen quickly if it ever does. He has a lot of other stuff going on right now and he’s not ready to jump into something yet.”

    "But he's amazing" Kevin said, wonderment written all over his face.

    "He could be perfect.  The missing piece we've been looking for" Avi agreed.

“I’ll see what I can do, but for now it’s just the four of us, okay? But I’ll work on it, I’ll talk to him.” He stood then, trying to get out of there and home to Midge as quickly as possible. “Gotta eat, I’ll see you guys tomorrow. Thanks for being so flexible about the weekend.”

    "No problem" Kevin said, "I don't mind taking a day off.  Lots of other stuff to work on."

He drove home the long way, sitting in the car for a few minutes once he parked because he still wasn’t quite settled, but he was close. He wanted to decide here, away from Midge because whenever he was in the apartment with him he pretty much turned into mush and would do anything to make the boy happy. This was big though, so he wanted to make sure how he felt before tackling it. He had to be sure.

He walked up the stairs and stood at the door, giving himself a small mental pep talk. He unlocked the door, took off his shoes, and then realized that Midge wasn’t waiting for him. He went into the bedroom thinking he was probably taking a nap. He was in the room, but not in the bed; instead he was hiding in the closet. “What’s wrong?”

“Is it okay?”

“Yes, of course Midge. Why are you hiding?”

“You waited and didn’t come in so I thought you were giving me time to hide. I wasn’t sure, so I thought it was the best thing to do.”

“It’s just me, I was just thinking. I’m sorry I scared you. You bring up a good point though, I guess we still have a lot to figure out. Can we talk? Let’s go to the couch.”

Midge followed along, taking his steps the same time as Scott and following in his invisible footsteps. It was a game he had played as a child but he couldn’t remember the last time he had done it; it had been a very long time. He perched on the arm of the couch and faced Scott, waiting.

“Your socks don’t match.”

“Oh, no, they do not. Is that okay? It seemed more fun this way.”

“You don’t usually wear them, I hadn’t noticed you did that.”

“I am washing my pants so I wore the shorts, but I was cold. It is okay, right?”

“Of course Midge, wear whatever. We need to get you more clothes. But, hold on, I wanted to talk to you about something, okay?”

“Whatev.. Sure.”

Scott grinned and nodded his head. “Better. Thank you. So I was thinking about our conversation this morning during rehearsal so I started a pro/con list. It was on the back of my music which was stupid because I had to erase it all and couldn’t bring it home, but…. sorry, never mind. So I did the pro’s first, and there were several, like seeing your sister and you feeling more secure, being safer, you know. Then I switched to the con’s and I couldn’t think of any except you or I feeling trapped. And then I realized that you feel trapped now, just in a different way, and that what I think of as trapped, you seem to think of as security. And I wouldn’t really be trapped because it’s not really a legal marriage, it’s more a partnership. Are you following? Am I right?”

“Yes… and yes.”

“Are there any negatives for you, to being collared? You’ve done this before and I haven’t. Help me.”

“It depends on the Master. I was actually excited to be collared the first time, happy to have been chosen. And then I got to his home and it was… it was not good. But with you…” He turned his head away, then picked at a piece of dust that had gotten caught in the end of his tail. “Other than not knowing what to expect with sex, I am not worried. I do not think it will be so bad.”

“That’s not going to happen anytime soon and if and when we do, it will be good. I promise. So, we would need a collar; a bracelet works, right? Is that okay with you?”

“Wha… yes.”

“Would you like to pick it out?”

“No. I… how honest should I be Sir?”

“Scott, and very. Completely, even. I’m ALL about honesty today Midge.”

“I have preferences, but I would rather not choose it.”

“Can we go online and you can show me things you like, tell me what you like about them and what you don’t? Then I can choose something I think you’ll like. If you’re going to wear it all the time, I want you to love it.”

They spent two hours searching online jewelry stores, googling images, and just messing around. Midge wanted something substantial as opposed to a soft link chain, preferably with either a cat theme or symbolism, or something resembling a collar. A piece that he believed another Neko, or owner, would recognize as a symbol of ownership.

“I hate to leave you again Midge, but I need to go shopping.”

“I understand. I am fine. You are not gone very much at all and I have many…. hobbies to do while you are gone.”

“Don’t have too much fun without me, okay?” He winked, and grinned when he saw Midge get his reference and blush. “I’ll be back. Call me if you need anything, always. Right?”

“Yes, I will. Thank you.”

Half an hour later he was walking into the Cartier store in Los Angeles. He wasn’t sure he’d find what he wanted here but during their google searches he had seen their Panthere line and he thought it was a good place to start.

He walked past case after case, all of it beautiful but not quite right. There was a plain gold bangle bracelet with inlaid diamonds that he considered, briefly, but it wasn’t quite enough.

And then he saw it and there was no doubt. It called out to him from behind the glass and he couldn’t take his eyes off of it. The black cuff bracelet looked small enough to fit snuggly on Midge’s wrist but demanded to be seen. It featured a beautiful panther head in white diamonds, black specks that were just right, and emerald eyes as big and green as Midge’s.

He asked to see it and was soon whipping a piece of string out of his pocket the exact size of his wrist. His credit card groaned in disgust but he didn’t care, this was worth every single penny. He grinned the entire time they wrapped it up, then raced home, trying to plan out the perfect way to give it him.

Chapter 30 – Bracelets

Scott woke up that morning with a plan. It was so obvious, and so simple, and he didn’t know why he hadn’t thought of it before. He needed a few things though, and that meant leaving Midge alone again which he hated to do. Speaking of which, where was he?

Scott wandered into the living room to find him snuggled in a blanket on the couch, his fingers tracing the words in his book, his mouth sounding out the words silently. “Good morning” he said, smiling up at Scott.

“Good morning Midgey. Need any help?”

“Yes, there is a word back here…” he flipped back two pages and held the book up, pointing. “It sounds like too many things, I’m not sure which is right.”

“Bear” he said “like the animal. Bare like you are right now is B-A-R-E. Did you sleep okay?”

“Very well, thank you. Yes, bear makes sense. I will start again later. Would you like breakfast?”

“You sit and read, I’ll make it.”

“But NO!” he said hopping up, then stopped. “Unless you want to?”

“I do. Sit, please. I’ve got this. Won’t be as good as your pancakes but I can handle eggs and toast.”

“Alright, if you are sure.”

“I am. It’s definitely my turn. I need to do a few things before rehearsal. Will you be okay on your own for awhile today? Is there anything I can do, or that you need? I could take you somewhere, if you’d rather go to the mall or something, while I run my errands and then bring you back before rehearsal. Whatever you’d like.”

“You said it” he answered, giggling.

“I said?” he asked, after putting the bread away.

“You said ‘Whatever you like’. It amused me, it is nothing. I am happy to stay here the whole time, I prefer to not be out without you.”

He sat the plates on the counter and grinned as Midge wrapped himself up in the blanket and waddled over. Scott poured him a glass of milk and grabbed a cup of coffee, then sat down beside him. “Are you excited about Thursday?” he asked, in between bites.

“Yes. Excited and nervous and happy all at once. I want to thank you, again. This is very kind of you.”

“You’re welcome. I’m happy to do it. I’m going to grab the quickest shower ever and get out of here. Do you mind doing the dishes?”

“Of course not Scott, I will clean up.” Scott was out the door by the time he’d finished his eggs and he cleaned up the kitchen before going back to his reading.

Scott drove over to Sara’s house, two hoodies in hand. He’d sent her a quick text when he got in the car and she didn’t even bat an eye, she was more than used to Scott needing weird sewing jobs and odd fixes. “Hey” he said when she opened the door and let him in. “Where are the boys?”

    "Off to school already.  It's not exactly early for most of us, dear.  Now, you want cat ears?"

“Yeah, on either one, it doesn’t matter. One’s lined and one’s not, I wasn’t sure which would be easier.”

    "How big?  Want them to blend in or stand out?"

“Um” He imagined Midge’s ears and held his fingers out about 3 inches apart. “This big and either flesh toned, well, my flesh toned, so white” he joked “or the color of the hoodie is fine too. Whatever you have.”

    "And you'll text me later when you're on the way to pick them up?  No problem."

“Thank you! Seriously, this is super important, you have NO idea. You are literally a life saver today.” He kissed her quickly on the cheek and was out, on his way yet again to Cartier.

He grabbed the bag with Midge’s bracelet and went inside, looking for an associate.

    "Hello, I'm Lindsey.  Can I help you?"

“Yes, I bought this yesterday and I’d like to have it engraved. I also need one more, but different. Something simpler without the panther theme, but I’d like it to coordinate a bit. Not easy, I know.”

    "Actually, I may have just the thing.  How simple are you thinking?"

“As basic as possible. I’m not a huge jewelry guy.”

    "Okay, let's get this sent to the backroom and I can show you a few things while it's being done.  What would you like it to say?"

This was the hard part, and Scott still wasn’t quite sure he was choosing the right thing, but he refused to put ‘property of’ or ‘owned by’ or any such nonsense. “Midge Hoying please.”

    "No problem, just write it down very clearly here and I'll take it back."  She disappeared behind the door a moment and then returned, leading Scott towards a display in the middle.  "Now if this isn't right, just let me know.  I'm sure we can find something."  She lifted out a soft silk cord bracelet with two interlocking rings made of black and white gold.  It matched, without matching.  It was perfect, Midge and he coming to meet in the middle.  "I'll take it.  It's perfect Lindsey, thank you."

“You’re so welcome. Let me wrap this up and we can have you step over to the register. Afterwards I’ll check on your Panthere engravement.”

He made it through rehearsal although his head was so spaced out that Kelly started tossing things at him halfway through and everyone gave up on him a full 20 minutes before their normal ending time. “See you all Monday” he called, heading out and back over to Sara’s. Finally, bracelets and hoodie in hand, he parked the car and headed up. He was ready now and wanted nothing more than to see his boy.

Chapter 31 – Collared

***** I’m so nervous about posting this, I want it to be great, and right, and …. Aaaargh. I may come back and add or change later, but I know you’ve all been anxiously waiting. So, without further ado…..

Scott slipped on his newly cat-eared hoodie as he walked upstairs and unlocked the door. This apartment had never felt so much like home. “Hey Sweetie” he said as Midge slinked up to him. He leaned down and kissed him on the cheek, then pulled Midge close. “Can we go in the living room?”

“Of course, would you like me to take your shoes or your jaaa… you have ears!”

“I do, do you like them?”

“It is……” His smile was so wide he couldn’t talk. “You are cute” he giggled.

“Hold this while I take off my shoes but no peeking. Promise?”

“No peeking.” He held the bag down at his side and watched Scott take off his shoes, then followed him towards the couch. When he held his hand out, Midge handed him the bag and sat down. “How was your day?”

“Busy, but excellent. How was yours?”

“Fine. I spent a lot of time reading. I am very slow, it takes a long time.”

“That’s because you’re learning. You’re doing amazing, really. I admire your determination more than I can say. We’ll get you some more books whenever you’re finished with those.”

“Thank you, that would be… helpful, and kind.”

Scott wiped his hands on his jeans, they were suddenly rather clammy, and then took one of Midge’s hands in his. “We should talk. About us.”

Midge nodded, but stayed silent. This was it. He didn’t think Scott would ask him to leave, at least he hoped not, but he knew that he had a lot of problems with the arrangement Midge needed. He hated talks and hoped Scott would let him know what was going on quickly.

“I … I want you in my life, Midge. I want you with me. And if we need a symbol to make that happen, that’s what we’ll do. But this isn’t going to be one-way. A relationship takes two, and that’s what this is. It’s not you following me, it’s us together, heading wherever the hell this is going.”

“Are you saying you will?” he asked, amazed at his forcefulness.

“I will if you will.” He pulled the box containing Midge’s bracelet out of the bag. “I don’t know if I’m supposed to say something specific, or if there are certain things you need to hear. All I can do is tell you how I feel and I can barely do that because I’ve never felt like this before. I want to take care of you, and help you learn to take care of yourself, if you’ll let me. But it’s your choice. You have to want this, Midge, you’re free to choose. What do you want?”

“I would be honored. I will do my best, always, to bring you joy.” He watched as Scott opened the box, the stones glittering in the light. “Oh” he gasped. “Oh” He panted quickly several times, then ran a finger out along the edge of the panther’s head. “It…..It is perfect. I can not believe you …. you found this. It looks like me.”

Scott took it out of the box and undid the clasp, holding the inside towards Midge. “Can you read the engraving?”

“It says…. Midge….Hoying. My name and your last name.”

“No, your name. I know you told me that Neko’s don’t have last names, but my partner should and I would be honored if you’d use mine. I hope it is enough to show you belong with me.”

“I…” Tears started flowing down his cheeks as he held out his arm towards Scott, and his collar. He shook, but not out of fear.

Scott closed the clasp, a perfect fit around Midge’s slim wrist.

“Thank you… Scott.”

“You’re so welcome little one. Now, my turn.”

“Your turn?”

He pulled the second, slimmer box out of the bag and handed it to Midge. “You accepted my bracelet, and in doing so you made a lot of promises to me. But I have promises to make too, Midge and this will be a reminder of them.”

He slowly opened the lid a bit, peeking inside, then closed it. “This is… not normally done.”

“I didn’t think so, but we are not normal either. I want to be yours, too. Please.” He held his arm outstretched, waiting.

Midge gently took out the bracelet, then looked up at Scott. “Are you sure?”

“I would be honored and will do my best to bring you joy” he answered, doing his best to repeat Midge’s answer. Scott watched Midge’s lean fingers tremble as he slid the cord over his hand and then tightened it around his wrist. “Thank you.”

He put the boxes back in the bag and placed it on the coffee table, then crawled into Scott’s lap. Midge nuzzled his neck, placing tiny kisses there before curling further down into his chest and wetting his shirt with his tears.

Scott leaned back, pulling him along until they were both laying down, Midge resting on his chest. He rubbed circles on his back until he calmed down.

“Thank you for the comfort, but I am not sad.”

“I know and I’m glad. I enjoy comforting you though.”

“Scott?”

“Yes?”

“I love your hoodie. It was very nice of you to go to so much trouble. You made us the same.”

“We may be different, but we’re equal, Midge. And you have to admit, I look good with ears.”

“Yes, yes you do.”

“Do you like it?” He held Midge’s hand, turning his wrist left and right to see how the bracelet looked.

“My bracelet?”

“Yes. Is it okay?”

“It is the most amazing, beautiful thing I have ever seen and the fact that it is for me is… impossible to describe. But I love it because it is from you.”

“You would have been happy with a rubber band around your wrist, wouldn’t you?”

“Yes, because the joy is not in the thing.”

“No, no it’s not. And that, Midgey, is one of the reasons I love you so much.”

“But Scott?”

“Yes?”

“This is much more sparkly than a rubber band.”

*** For those of you who like smut, there is a chapter 31 and a half. It’s in the Excerpts book, so look for it under my works.

Now, for those of you who DON’T like smut, no worries. There is absolutely no real story in it. It doesn’t affect the story at all, so you are absolutely NOT missing anything. Okay? Okay.

Chapter 32 – Wednesday

Midge carefully unfolded himself from the ball he’d been curled into while sleeping and slipped out of bed. His eyes went immediately to his bracelet, almost glowing even in the pale light, at least to his keen eyes. Scott was spread eagle on his stomach, hair going every which way, wrist wrapped with a silken thread. It hadn’t been a dream. It was real. He smiled to himself and went into the living room.

It was much brighter here without the curtains drawn but his eyes soon adjusted. After getting the Keurig ready for coffee later, he grabbed a glass of milk and curled up on the couch with his book. It was childish and silly, but he didn’t care because yesterday he had read through the whole thing. He opened it and started again but soon grew bored of it, his thoughts drifting to last night.

He’d done it, he’d been collared and even though maybe it wasn’t quite the same as he had been taught to expect, he still had a place. He belonged here now,with Scott. He had a home again. He grinned and stretched, walking over to the window to watch the day. It was late, he had slept in longer than he usually did. Instead of the early morning calm, the city below was already in full swing.

He heard the beep of Scott’s alarm, then his muffled, unhappy grunt. Smiling, he turned on the coffee machine and walked into the bedroom. “Good morning.”

“Mmmmm Uh Slp Or.”

He didn’t catch any of that but it didn’t seem to be a command, Scott never demanded much in the mornings anyway. No, ever. He never demanded much ever.  Midge still worried though, when he didn’t understand, afraid he might fail him in some way. “I am sorry, I did not understand.”

“Cmeeeere” he answered, cracking open one eye and swooping his arm out to catch him around the waist.

“Ooh, okay” Midge curled close, happy to feel his warmth.

“Huhiii” he mumbled, almost intelligibly.

“Hello”

Suddenly he turned, eyes wide. “Are you okay? With last night, with everything? Do you feel okay?”

He almost looked…. afraid? Midge tilted his head as he examined his words from several different angles. “I am fine, but I am not sure why you would ask. Did you think I would not be?”

“I’m glad. I was just worried. Not about your bracelet, although that is huge and I probably should be worried but right now I was just thinking about last night. After.”

“Ah” A smile crept onto his face and he bit his lower lip. Last night they’d gone further, come closer. Scott had made him feel ways he’d never felt, had done things to him no one had ever done. It had been amazing, and good, so good. But he hadn’t used him, although Midge had expected it and had been more than willing. After all, Scott was his owner and there was no reason for him not to.

“I like the smile on your face. I hope it wasn’t too much. I didn’t plan to do it… anything really but… GRRRRR” He held him close, his hand lazily playing with Midge’s hair. “Do I smell coffee?”

“Yes” he answered, hopping up.

“I didn’t mean you had to get up. Wait for me, I’m coming.” He stood and stretched his back, then grabbed his sweatpants and followed Midge into the kitchen. “Thank you, this is a nice treat.”  Scott grabbed his cup and went into the living room, sitting on the couch and putting his feet on the coffee table. He spotted Midge’s book and picked it up. “Do you need new books before the trip? I have a meeting but afterwards I’m all yours. We need to get ready for tomorrow.”

“I do not…. I am sorry. I would appreciate some new books, but it is not necessary.”

“That’s pretty close to a ‘yes, please get me new books’ for you, so we’ll go.”

“May I ask how long we will be gone? I am just wondering how it will work, seeing Misty.”

“Honestly, I don’t know much, we’re going to have to play it by ear. We’re going over for dinner Thursday night, and he said we were welcome to stay with them—”

“In the house? With Misty? I’m so sorry Sir, I did not mean to interrupt.” He closed his mouth and ducked his head.

“Don’t apologize, it’s fine. Midge? With me now?” He waited until he looked up and then smiled. “Okay, yes, in the house. We’ll see how things go though, we can always get a hotel room. We didn’t make any plans for Friday, I don’t know yet.”

“That would be amazing.”

“I hope so.  Zac is going to drive down with us but he’ll fly back Sunday. We can drive back whenever, depending on how things go, alright? I have no problem staying the whole weekend so you can spend some time with her if his uncle doesn’t mind. I hate saying that, but you know what I mean. I’m flexible if things work out.”

“I am so excited, thank you so much!”

“You’re welcome honey. I’ve gotta get a shower and get going but I won’t be gone long. Call me…. go ahead, finish it.”

“If I need anything. I will.”

“Good. This evening we need to get you some more clothes and some books, and anything else your heart desires. We have a big day tomorrow.”

Chapter 33 – Calendar

Scott watched Midge circle the children’s reading area, his eyes flashing bright green as they scanned the covers. He figured they’d be here awhile so he sat down on one of the small bean bag chairs and settled in. “See anything you like?”

“I can read some of the titles, although the names are still hard. How do you know how to say a name you have never heard of?”

“You don’t. It’s up to you. If it’s similar to another name I usually say it the same way, but it doesn’t really matter, I guess.”

“I want something difficult enough that I will learn, but not so hard that I can not do it myself.”

“I can help you, you know, but you’re right. I don’t want you to get frustrated and you’ve been doing a lot of reading when I’m not around.”

“How many should I choose?”

“Grab a bunch.”

“Saying a bunch is not very helpful to me Scott. Oh! I am sorry, can I say that? I did not mean—”

“You’re right, and yes, you can say anything you want to me.”

Midge was shocked at the statement. Certainly he didn’t mean anything. He certainly owed Scott an apology. “I did not mean to be rude.”

“You weren’t Midge. Why don’t you get 4 or 5 that look about right, and 4 or 5 more that are harder? I don’t know, 8 or 10 total maybe? Does that sound alright?”

He’d been hoping for at least two, or maybe even three. “That is a lot, thank you. I will try to choose.”

Scott was amused. Midge would carefully choose a book and bring it over to Scott, looking for approval. He simply nodded and held onto it, watching him scurry back to the shelves to choose another. When he had quite a little stack they made their way to the registers.

Along the way Midge spotted the calendars and stopped. He tried to sound out the words, realizing quickly that each month had a chart and then he figured out Sunday and Monday. “Scott?”

“Yes?”

“Will you help me? Is this Tuesday?”

“Yep, you got it.”

“But it is not spelled T-O or T-W-O like it should. Is there another Tue? What does T-U-E mean?”

“Nothing. It’s only Tuesday that’s spelled that day. Damn, English is ridiculous. How does anyone learn it?” He shook his head.

“And this calendar is how you know the days?”

“Mmhmm”

“But you do not have one.”

“I have one on my phone. So do you, I can show you later. You’ve never seen a… okay, I’m figuring this out. They kept you uneducated on purpose, didn’t they? Didn’t teach you to read, or use the remote or even use a damn calendar because it makes you helpless, keeps you down and subservient. And because you can’t do these things that no one can unless they’re taught, you accept it when they say they’re better than you? That you’re stupid? I thought they were just lazy and mean, but this is much worse.”

“I… I do not know. I have never thought of it that way, although you are probably right. I know that there are many things I do not understand and now that I can read, so many things make more sense.”

“It changes everything. The whole world is run on words. Pick one” he said, nodding his head towards the huge display. “We’ll put it up and use it.” He had an easy time choosing, the one of beaches was plucked off the shelf quickly and Scott added it to the stack.

“Thank you.”

“There are so many things I take for granted, that I just know. And I have NO idea which of those things were kept from you, so if you ever don’t understand something, or have questions, please ask. I want to put the whole world in your hands.” He paid and they got back in the car, heading towards one of his favorite shopping centers.

Midge rode silently, watching the scenery. He enjoyed people watching at the stoplights. He read words from signs and buildings as they went, Scott helping him out when he struggled.

“Okay, now for clothes. At least now we know pretty much what sizes you are, Mr. Tiny. We’ll buy you some stuff that you actually like and just return anything that won’t work. I think we’ll be able to guess pretty well. But, I need you to tell me what you actually LIKE, okay? The whole ‘I don’t need anything’ isn’t going to work. I want you to have things that make you happy. Alright?”

“I will do my best although I am not sure exactly what I need or what you would like me to have. I want my clothes to please you as well.”

“Come on, let’s find you some lightweight pants and some t-shirts for tomorrow, at the very least.”

Midge walked behind Scott, glad he didn’t have to fend off the sales associates which seemed to throw themselves at them every 30 seconds. When Scott pointed to a pair of pants with approximately a hundred zippers and pockets, Midge wasn’t sure if he was serious.

“Thought it might help with… well you’d have lots of places to put things.”

“Ah, yes, I see. Okay.”

“Black, gray, brown, blue?”

“Black please.” He watched Scott look for his size and his eyes roamed. Every time his gaze rested too long on something, Scott grabbed his size and held it up, waiting for a nod or a shake of the head. He’d never had so much say in…. in anything. It was weird for him to choose things like this, to have control over what went on his body, what food he ate, what he did with his time. He decided that he liked it very, very much.

“Okay, I think this will do it. Let’s take these home and see what works. If even half of it does, I think you’ll be set for the trip. Going to do another fashion show for me?”

“Wha… I would like to try them on.”

“And I would like to watch” Scott grinned. “It sounds like fun.”

That evening they tried on everything, Scott cracking up when Midge pulled his pants down low ‘like he had seen those other guys do’ and pulled his tail out, letting it stick out from below his shirt. The black cargo pants were perfect though, and as short as Midge was, most of the shirts landed down around his hips and hid his tail without too much effort.

The new calendar was hung on the wall, Scott transferring his meetings and rehearsals for the next week onto it. Midge wrote ‘Misty’ in tomorrow’s box and stared at it for awhile, letting it sink in. After a late dinner they packed their things, Midge folding his new clothes perfectly and packing them carefully in the bag Scott loaned him, very pleased with himself.

That night, even though Midge was exhausted, he lay awake in bed for a long time. He didn’t mind though, because Scott’s arm was wrapped around him and he knew that tomorrow he would see his sister for the first time in seven long years. He hugged Marley closer. He didn’t want to hope that she might have news of the rest of the family but he couldn’t help but wonder.

Chapter 34 – Drive

Scott liked waking up with Midge still in bed with him although it didn’t happen very often. He glanced at the clock and closed his eyes again, glad he still had 20 minutes before he had to get up. He planned on letting Midge sleep every one of those minutes but that didn’t happen.

“Good morning” Midge said, stretching and rubbing at his eyes. “I will go make coffee. I am sorry I slept so late.”

Scott tightened his hold. “Please don’t go yet. There’s no rush. Besides, that’s what Starbucks is for, we’ll stop on our way to Zac’s”

“If you are sure, I would be happy to stay. I would be happy to have fun, too. May I?” He slid his hand down Scott’s chest and teased him.

Scott didn’t need any encouragement, he had just woken up and was more than ready to go. He said a silent thank you to the gods for waking up early. “Be my guest.”

Two hours later they had picked Zac up and hit the road, Starbucks and breakfast in hand. They’d decided that Scott would drive the first half and Zac the second, since he knew his way around Phoenix. He’d tried to climb in the back but Midge wouldn’t hear of it. Scott had almost put his foot down but had given in when Midge said he would like to lay down and nap.

“Zac, may I ask a question?”

    "Of course Midge, what can I do for you?"

“I was wondering how you knew of Misty, and how much you know about her. Is there anything you can tell me?”

    "Oh yeah, sure.  To be honest, I don't know a ton but I'm happy to tell you what I do.  Want me to start anywhere in particular?"

“It does not matter, I will be happy with anything you share.”

    "She moved in after my aunt died."

“That’s a nice way of putting it” Scott quipped from the driver seat. “Sorry, I’ll shut up now.”

    "Yeah, sorry if I say anything that offends you Midge, this whole thing is kind of complicated."

“I understand Zac, it will not bother me. Please, tell me more.”

    "So when she first came, Sebastian told us she was an exchange student.  My aunt had been a teacher, so it made sense.  After awhile I remember hearing that he had hired her as his personal assistant because she wanted to stay in the country.   She always lived with him though, and I remember my parents discussing it.

    "My family and I visited a few times and she was always polite, seemed sweet.  She's absolutely beautiful.  I always noticed her hair, it's amazing and has that gorgeous streak you mentioned, although it's not always white.  Once it was purple, sometimes red.  Anyway, I didn't really know her well.  She mostly stayed away while we visited.  I mean, she was there but she didn't hang out with us in the living room after dinner or anything.

    "They hosted Thanksgiving one year while I was in college.  I didn't want to go, I remember that.  I had a boyfriend and he lived in Cali and I wanted to stay.  I ended up going because I didn't really have a choice, but I was grumpy and honestly, a total bitch.  After dinner I went out in the yard to take a walk and she was there, sitting on a bench. 

    "The weather was crap, it was actually fairly cold and it was windy as hell.  We were sitting there talking when her hood blew down and I saw her ear.  She tried to play it off, said her hair was a mess, hid it, you know.  I ignored it, honestly because what do you say to someone who seems to have a cat ear?"

“I am sure she was worried, it was kind of you to not scare her” Midge said kindly.

    "She was cold and we went inside, but I went with her into the library---"

“He has a library? Of his own?” Midge asked.

    "Yeah, he's a lawyer and has a ton of books.  It's a home office too, I guess, I know he works from there sometimes."

“I am sorry I interrupted, please tell me the story.”

    "No problem.  So we went in because I didn't want to spend time with my family and she was too polite to tell me no.  Hours passed while we played chess and talked.  She was really easy to talk to and I had fun.  Anyway, Sebastian came in later, I don't know if he was looking for her, or me, or something else entirely but he wasn't all that happy about me being in a closed room with her alone, that was obvious.

    "I remember him asking me if I was 'completely gay' or if he should be worried about me.  I joked it off, said he had nothing to worry about and that's when shit got a little weird.  Are you sure you want to know everything?  Maybe we should stop there.  Scott?"

“If it’s bad…… I don’t know Zac, it’s up to him.”

Midge looked out the window. “I think you think I do not know what happens. How things are. I know much more than either of you, about this. I would like to know the rest please.”

    "You're right, I'm sorry.  But Scott you've got to swear to not kill me, I didn't do anything.  Okay?"

“Yeah, I’m cool. Go ahead.”

    "Alright, this was a couple years ago so I don't remember exactly but he said something about being able to fix that.  Me being completely gay, I mean.  He said she could cure a man of just about anything, and he was happy to share as long as he got to watch.  I told him 'no', I swear.  I was completely freaked out, I mean this is my uncle.  I've known him since I was tiny, you know?  He swore me to secrecy and then told me about her.  Being a Neko I mean.

    "I saw her again the next morning.  I couldn't sleep and she was up early, working on breakfast and to-go boxes of leftovers for everyone.  We talked and she told me about being a Neko, answered some of my questions.  She made me promise not to tell and I haven't, until now.  I'm sorry Midge."

“It is alright, I thank you for telling me. May I ask how you knew about me?”

    "You just reminded me of her.  You look like her, and you talk like her.  And you seemed so lost at the bar, so overwhelmed.  I don't know, really.  It just popped into my head and once it was there, I couldn't shake it."

“Thank you for telling me all of this. Is it okay if I take a nap now, Scott? I did not sleep well.”

“Of course. I’ll wake you up when we stop and stretch.” Scott ran over Zac’s story, more than a little worried about what was going to happen when they arrived. He was really glad now that he had done everything in his power to keep Midge safe and make him feel secure but couldn’t help but feel like he was way out of his league here. When they stopped at the rest area he typed Zac a quick text to make sure Midge didn’t hear him.

Scawt:

Whatever happens, promise me you’ll help me take care of Midge.

Zaclor Swift:

Absolutely.

Chapter 35 – Sebastian

***** Okay guys, I never do this but how the HECK did this story end up on the first page?  Wow!  Thanks so much for the likes and comments, I’m sort of emotional.  I read them all, and they make writing a lot more fun.  Anywhooooo, when we last left our heroes, they on their way to Phoenix in Scott’s car …. ;)

Midge stared out the window at the beautiful houses.  One after another, each with perfect landscaping, they passed by.  He tried to think of anything but Misty, tried to distract himself but he couldn’t quite manage it.  He was grateful beyond measure that Scott had gotten into the backseat with him when they stopped for gas about an hour ago.  The arm wrapped around his shoulders was a great comfort, so solid and warm.

He looked up at Zac in the front seat, manuevering the car easily through the random narrow streets and turns.  He’d been SO nice to him all day, and he understood why Scott liked him so much.  He was big, too, tall like Scott and he felt very safe knowing they would both be with him when he went in.

When the car stopped Midge looked around.  “Which one?”

        “Just ahead of us, with the white shutters.” Zac answered.  “Didn’t want to block him in, just in case you end up staying.”

“Will you stay too, Zac?” Midge asked.

        “Probably not, my parents would like to see me but if you need me to, I guess I can for tonight.  He has lots of room.  We’ll figure it out, okay?”

“Thank you.”  The house WAS big, although certainly not the largest on the street.  It was beautiful, and he was very glad that Misty had such a nice house to live in.

“Ready?” Scott asked, opening the door and unfolding his legs to get out.  “Next time I say I don’t need a big back seat, someone shoot me.”

Midge’s eyes widened and he grabbed his wrist.

“No, no, it’s a joke.”

“It is not funny Scott.”

“Sorry.  Wow, you’re a little stressed, huh?  Don’t blame you though.  Come on, let’s get this party started.”

Scott and Midge followed Zac up the sidewalk and onto the covered front step, glad for the shade. “She is here” Midge squeaked.  “She is here!”

“Where?” Scott asked, looking around.

“I am sorry, I do not know.  I can only smell her.”

“Ah, gotchya.  Okay Zac, hit the bell.”  Scott was nervous, he couldn’t imagine how Midge was feeling.  He held onto his hand, although he wasn’t sure if he was trying to make his boy feel better or himself.  Either way, it was the only thing he could think of.

        “Hey Uncle Sebastian” Zac said when the door opened.  His uncle was not all that much older than him, being his father’s youngest brother and was still slim and had the undeniable Kirk nose.  He followed him in and turned quickly back to make sure Scott and Midge were following along behind him.

        “So” Sebastian said, “you must be Scott and this is most definitely Midge.  Welcome.”

“Thanks so much, we really appreciate you letting us visit” Scott answered.  He sat on the couch next to Zac and guided Midge down next to him.

Midge was waiting, listening for Misty.  Why wasn’t she here yet?  Was he going to see her?

        “Misty, you may come in now” Sebastian said.  He sat in his armchair and rested his hand on her head when she came to kneel at his feet.

Every muscle in Scott’s body tensed when he saw her sit on the floor but Midge squeezed his hand and he sat back, unmoving.  He tried to take a few deeper breaths and calm down a bit.

Midge stared, trying to make eye contact but she didn’t look up.  She smiled though, and Midge knew it was for him.  Her collar was deep scarlet leather, complete with a little bell, and matched the red streak in her waist-length hair.

        “So Scott, you are very young to have such an expensive toy.  I’m very impressed.  Have you owned him long?”

“No.  No I haven’t” he replied through clenched teeth.

        “Still in the honeymoon phase, ahhh, I remember those days.  Training is such fun.  I almost considered trading her in for a new kitten just so I could do it again, but people talk.  It’s easier to keep her and she is a very good girl.”

“May I sit next to her?” Midge asked.

        “Excuse me?  Who gave you permission to talk?” Sebastian bellowed.  “Scott, you had better get him under control or you’ll regret it.  You can not let them get away with stuff like that, take it from someone a bit more experienced.  And you, Midge, will not open your mouth again in my house unless you are asked a question, do you understand?”

Scott jumped to his feet although Zac stood with him, trying to get him to calm down.  “You will not talk to him that way.  He may speak whenever he damn well wants to!”

        “You don’t own him, do you?  No owner would let his pet get away with that.  Midge, is that why you’re not wearing a collar?  Come here and kneel beside your sister.”

“Don’t Midge, don’t listen to him.”

        “Midge, NOW” Sebastian repeated.

Midge didn’t have to think twice, he stayed in place.  “No, I will not.  My master forbids it.”

        “Okay, okay, hell, you can’t blame a guy for trying.”  Sebastian said dismissively.  “He’s cute though, even with that mouth.  Any chance you want to swap for the weekend?  I bet he’s really good—”

Scott didn’t have much experience hitting people but when his fist crashed into Sebastian’s face, he knew he’d done a pretty good job.

Chapter 36 – Standoff

And then all hell broke loose. Zac grabbed Scott’s arm and tried to pull him back while Misty jumped in front of Sebastian.

        “Want to have a cat fight, do you?  Not what I was planning on today, but I do love to be entertained” Sebastian said, grinning while cradling his jaw.

        “No.  Misty, sit down, it’s okay now” Zac begged.  He pulled Scott a step further back but she didn’t move.

Midge was on his feet too, already standing between Misty and Scott, finally getting to look into her face although it was filled with rage towards his master.

“Sit down Midge” Scott said, worried he would get hurt.

“I… I can not let you come to harm.  You are in danger.  I am sorry for my disobedience Sir.” Then, under his breath softly enough that he hoped no humans would hear “I am sorry Misty.  I love you, no matter what happens.  I only meant to bring us joy.”

        “He doesn’t know how this works, does he pet?” Sebastian said to Midge.  “Explain to your master all about cat fights and what’s about to happen.  You’re a boy, I’m sure you’ve been in plenty of these.  Tell him what he’s started, here.  Oh never mind, I’ll do it.  I don’t want to hear your smart mouth anyway.  This is easy, Scott.  Misty will defend me, all I need to do is nod my head or say the word, and she will attack you.  Midge will try to stop her and we will have one HELL of a cat fight on our hands.”

“Midge, don’t fight her.  No matter what.”

“I will not stand by while you are hurt, Sir.  I can not do such a thing.”

        “Uncle Sebastian, please!” Zac demanded.  “Don’t do this, she’s his sister!”

        “They’re just Nekos and I’ll do whatever I please, Zachary.  How dare you take advantage of my hospitality this way?  I am doing you a favor and THIS is how you thank me?  Your friend has HIT me and you stand there reprimanding me?  Get the hell out of my house.  Right now.  All of you.”

“NO!” Midge yelled, grabbing out for Misty’s hand.

        Quick as lightning Sebastian’s hand flew and smacked Midge across the face causing his entire head to jerk to the side.  “What did I say to you about that mouth of yours?  SHUT UP! You don’t get to touch my property!”

Midge fell to the floor on his knees and Scott lunged for Sebastian, breaking free from Zac momentarily.  The split second it took him to figure out how to get around Misty was all Zac needed to stop him and bring him to the ground.

        “Don’t make this worse Scott, get Midge out of here!” Zac begged.

“He fucking HIT HIM!” Scott spat, pushing at Zac.

        “You told me to take care of Midge and he NEEDS TO GO!  I can’t hold you and Sebastian.  Get him OUT!  GO!”  He watched Scott’s eyes flash in anger and then resignation as he accepted his words.

“Fuck, you’re right.  Okay, let me up.  We’ll go”  He lifted Midge and ushered him ouf the door and put him into the car, crawling into the back seat with him.  “Are you okay?  Midge?”

Midge said nothing, he couldn’t.  He stared out the window towards the house, his hand pressed to the glass, tears running down his face.

        A moment later Zac walked out and slid into the driver’s seat.  “I’m so sorry.  I swear I had NO idea he would… that it would… shit.  Thanks for waiting for me.  Where to?”

Scott heard him but didn’t listen, his focus on Midge.  “Look at me, let me see your face.”

He turned obediently, his eyes lowered.

“Are you okay?” he tried to see but it was too dark in the shadows of the evening.  “Turn on the lights Captain.”  They flicked on and he tilted Midge’s head to the side, then up.  “You’re going to have a nasty bruise, I’m afraid.  We need to get you some ice.”

Zac knew where to find that, at least, so he put the car in drive, dimmed the lights, and headed towards his house.

Midge turned back to the window, pulling away from Scott’s touch.  After they passed, he sat up backwards in the seat and watched until the house disappeared when they turned a corner.

“I’m so sorry Midge.”

“It is not your fault Master.”

“Please stop calling me that.  I know you wanted to do it in front of him but please, no more.”

“Whatever you like.”

“Come here, please?” he asked, moving towards the middle and pulling Midge close.  “I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to fuck it up.  Forgive me?  Please?”

“There is nothing to forgive.”

“Of course there is.  Midge?  I’m sorry.  I shouldn’t have hit him, I just…. the shit he was saying, how he was treating you, and her, I just couldn’t stand it.  Did you hear what he said?  He thought I would leave you with him!  Like the two of you are fucking interchangeable or something.”

“We are.  We are just Nekos.”

“Don’t say that, you are not just anything, little one.”  He gently wiped a tear from Midge’s cheek but there was nothing he could do to stop their falling.

Zac parked the car in his driveway.  “Be right back.”  A few minutes later he returned with an icepack.  “Scott, do you want to drive?  I programmed the gps for the closest decent hotel.  Or I can, and I’ll get a cab back once you’re settled.”

“I guess I should.  I think we need some time alone.  Thanks, for everything.”

        “I’m really sorry Scott, I am.”

“I know, and it’s not your fault Zac.  It was mine.”

Chapter 37 – Hotel

Scott found the hotel without any trouble and went inside to get a room. He hated leaving Midge in the car but he was still such a mess that Scott didn’t want him drawing too much attention to himself. He looked towards the car constantly while he handed over his credit card and waited for the key.

“We’re all set, we can park and go up” he told Midge once he was back. He parked in the overnight lot and grabbed both of their bags from the trunk. “Come on, Midgey, let’s go.”

He crawled out of the backseat on autopilot and followed Scott through the lobby and into the elevator. He gasped and grabbed the railing when it started its journey up and was very glad to get off once the doors opened. He walked into the room behind Scott, spotting the large bed in the middle of the room immediately. “May I go to sleep?”

“Aren’t you hungry? I can order room service and we can have dinner.”

“I am not hungry Sir, but I will stay awake and eat if if pleases you.”

“Stop, please Midge. Stop with the ‘sir’ and the ‘whatever you’d like’ and the ‘if it pleases you’. We’ve been over this and it’s NOT us. Okay? This is you and me now, we’re the only ones in the room. Why don’t you lay down and I’ll wake you up when the food gets here, okay? We’ll compromise.”

“Whate… that is fine.” He stripped out of his new clothes, folding them carefully and laying them on top of his bag. “May I use the bathroom?”

“Of course you can, you don’t need to ask.” He sighed as he watched Midge disappear and the door close. He had royally fucked up today and he didn’t know how to fix it. There was NO way he was going back to that house and he knew Sebastian wouldn’t let him pick up Misty and bring her here or out to a damn movie. There was no answer. And his Midge, his Midge was miserable. He wished Midge would yell at him, tell him how much he’d fucked up and get his feelings out but he couldn’t imagine that happening. No, Midge would suck it up and deal, no matter how bad he felt. He had to figure out a way to help him feel better, and quick.

Midge walked out of the bathroom and sat on the floor in front of his bag. Carefully he moved the pile of clothes to the side and undid the zipper. Once he had retrieved his stuffed Marley, he crawled into bed, holding her tight.

“I’m surprised you packed her instead of bringing her to ride in the car with you.”

“She is not real Scott, she does not mind.”

He didn’t know what to say to that because it was true, and yet somehow still very sad. He grabbed the menu and called down to order dinner, then went and kissed Midge on the cheek and noticed it was wet. “Do you want me to hold you? Do you need comfort?”

“Please” he sobbed. He was ashamed of his outburst, and fought down his emotions but he didn’t really have the strength.

Scott jumped in behind him and wrapped his arm around him. He felt Midge shift and he loosened up so he could turn, snuggling against Scott’s chest. “I’m here, it’s okay little one. It will be alright.” He said the words, but wasn’t sure if all of them were true. “I’m so sorry.”

“You do not need to apologize.”

“Oh Midge, I wish the words could help. If they did I’d say it a thousand times. But even though they can’t, I need to do it anyway because I was wrong and I hurt you and I don’t know what else to do.”

“You did not hurt me, I hurt myself. I should not have misbehaved.”

“NO. NO no no. I’m sorry, but no. You did NOTHING wrong. Please believe me. There were only two people in that room who did anything wrong. One was Sebastian who, by the way, just in case you weren’t sure how I feel, is a complete fucking douchebag. The other was my stupid ass, who should have been able to control my emotions. I wanted you to see her SO badly Midge, and I ruined it.”

“I did see her.”

“But you didn’t really, and it’s my fault.”

“I saw her more than I ever thought I would, and it was all because of you. You introduced me to Zac and told him to talk to Sebastian. You gave me permission to come and even drove me the whole way out here. If not for you, I would never have seen her. Now I know she is okay.”

“She’s NOT okay Midge. I’m sorry, and I know that’s the last thing you need to hear right now, but he’s an ass.”

“But she loves him. She is happy enough.”

“How can she be?”

“She is happy in the same way I was with Trent; she does not know any different.”

“I don’t know what to say to that. If you think she’s happy, who am I to argue? I’m glad, if it’s true. But I’m really confused… why are you crying? Your words don’t match your tears Midge.”

“I misbehaved. I do not like failing. I do not like to need punishment and I do not like to receive it. I do not know what came over me the past week, but you are my Master and I can not treat you the way I do. I am sorry. I have taken advantage of your kindness. I do not deserve you.”

“None of that is true Midge. He should NOT have hit you and I am not your master. YOU are your master and you are so, so good to me. I’m the one who doesn’t deserve you. Don’t let him have this power over you, don’t let him get in your head.”

“How am I going to go back?”

“Back where?”

“I am sorry, I should not speak of this to you.”

“Yes, yes you should honey. Back where?”

“To where I belong. How do I give up learning to read, speaking out, making my own choices? I do not know how I can do it.”

“You’re not going to. Ever. No one should live that way.”

“But I must, it is who I am!”

“No it’s not. Listen to me, we’re only going forward Midgey, not back. I’ll be here and we’ll make it work.”

“I can not. You make me think I can do things I can not do. You make me think things are possible and they are not.”

“You can, and you are, and you will. Why do you say that?”

“Because I am scared. I am so, so scared.”

“It’s okay Midgey, everyone else is too.”

Chapter 38 – California

Scott had himself so convinced that Midge would be better once they got back to the apartment that he practically hauled him up the stairs once they finally arrived. He was lucky they hadn’t gotten pulled over on the way. He settled Midge and Marley on the couch and put the bags in their room. There was no way he was going to let Midge pack her back up this morning so he’d carried her himself and let her ride in the car. He’d let Zac know they were leaving, promising to talk to him soon and let him know how Midge was, and they’d left early.

Midge was restless and conflicted. He looked down at his bracelet and ran his fingertips across the face, feeling the slight indentations of the set-in stones. He stared at it, unflinching, as if the answers to his questions were written there. And, maybe they were. He’d been running through things in his head the entire drive, but one thing was true, a constant: he had a collar. Scott was his master, and he should act the ways and do the things his master wanted, regardless of the consequences. It really was that simple. “I am sorry Scott.”

Scott came into the room with a glass of milk for Midge and set it down. “I can’t imagine what you have to apologize for, but I’m happy to listen if you want to talk.”

“I acted poorly last night and I am sorry.”

Scott wanted to interrupt and tell him he was wrong but he didn’t want to stop him, so he bit his tongue and stayed quiet, settling for holding his hand.

“I can only say that I was confused and hope you will forgive me. Being at the house was… like being dipped in cold water. Maybe it is not so bad for humans? I do not know, so I…. I am sorry, it was just hard, a shock, and it made me see things I had not been seeing. Perhaps I do not make any sense.”

“I think you do. Tell me, please” he whispered.

“I think I was not fully aware of how far I had come. I told myself I was still Neko and doing and saying new things because you wanted them and last night at the hotel I realized that I want them too. I am still figuring things out, I hope I do not confuse you.”

“I’ve felt that way since I met you, so I understand. And that scared you, wanting those things?”

“Yes. But I can not have them except for you and… Why do you let me speak so freely?”

“Because what you say is important to me and because you deserve to.”

“I am afraid of what will happen to me after you have finished with me. I am already so different.” He wrapped his tail around himself to feel more secure.

“I will never be finished with you. No matter what, we will be friends always Midge. I promise.”

He looked down at his bracelet, then further at his hand cradled in Scott’s, and then to his wrist and the two interlocked rings wrapped around it, different but connected. “Then I should not be scared, and instead focus on the joy. I am sorry for being ungrateful.”

“That is not something I would ever call you. You had a really, really tough day; don’t be so hard on yourself. I really am sorry I lost my temper though, and ruined things. I really am.”

“May I tell you a secret?”

“Absolutely.”

“Every time my cheek hurts I think of you punching him and it makes it feel better. I should not talk that way, but it is true.”

“Oh Midge, you are… something, that’s for sure. How bad is it?”

“No worse than your hand, I think. I noticed the way you held the wheel, that carrying my bag bothered it as well.”

“It’s okay, it’s just one finger that hurts, it’ll be fine. Is there anything I can do for you? To make you smile?”

Midge thought a moment, then grinned.

“What is it?”

“A memory. My mother had a song she would sing for me when I was small.”

“Would you sing it for me?”

“If you like. I am not sure it is quite right, but I will try.” And then in his soft, sweet tenor he sang out the slow lullaby:

Smile, smile happy boy

Smile, smile show me joy.

I have something just for you

Mama has brought Midge a toy.

Smile, smile that’s my boy

Smile, smile bring me joy.

You are mine and I love you

You are my sweet little boy.

Scott didn’t want to breathe or even blink, so fragile was the moment. Midge’s face was smiling, and also sad, his eyes far away.

“There were other verses, but I’m not quite sure, they blend together in my head. She had a beautiful voice. Misty does too. I do not remember Marley singing, she was always more quiet. I am sorry, I became distracted. I think you asked something of me but I am forgetful and do not remember.”

“It wasn’t nearly as important as that. You have the most gorgeous voice I’ve ever heard. It’s like an angel. And your range… how low and high can you go? Can you sing scales?”

“Oh, notes going up?”

“Yes.”

“I think so, I have never tried. You want me to start at the bottom?”

“Yeah. Just give it a go, whatever comes out is fine.”

He picked out a few notes, working his way down and then sang almost 3 and a half perfectly pitched octaves without missing a note. “I can do a few others, but there are spaces. Like this….” A few lower tones, then a few very high and even some whistle tones came out. “I do not know if that counts, it sounds like a scream. I think that is all.”

Scott was speechless. “My. fucking. god. Midge. YOUAREAMAZING!!!! Seriously, I heard you once at rehearsal but I had no idea…. Okay, Avi is right, you need to sing with us. Do you like to sing?”

“You are very pleased? I am glad, but everyone can sing Scott, I do not undertand why you are so excited. And yes, I like to sing.”

“No, okay fine, yes, everyone can sing but Midge, I’ve never heard anyone sing like YOU.”

Chapter 39 – Ears

Midge looked at his phone when it rang, alarmed, then back at Scott.

“Who is it?”

“It says… Kelly?  Does she have my phone number?”

“Yep, hit the green button and answer if you want, or she’ll leave you a message.”

“Hello?”

        “Hey Midge, how are you?” she asked.

“I am…. well.  I am fine.  How are you?”

        “Oh I’m great.  I wanted to find out how dinner went and when you’re coming back.”

“We are back now.  I had a very nice dinner, thank you.” Before that was not so good, but the picnic on the bed in the hotel was very nice.  Afterwards was even more fun.

        “I have an idea to run by you, do you have a minute?”

“I can ask Scott, but I believe I do.  Scott, do I have a minute?”

“Of course” he chuckled “talk all you want.  I’m going to unpack.”

“Yes, I have many minutes.”

        “You are adorbs.  So I was wondering if your ears bend.  Okay, that sounded weird.  I was doing my hair this morning and I realized that it shouldn’t be too hard to hide your ears, so you don’t have to worry about them and wear a hoodie when it’s 80 degrees.  Have you ever tried?”

“No, I have never tried to hide my ears.  I can put them down, but if I forget they will come back up.  Is that a helpful answer to your question?”

        “Yep” she said, popping the ‘p’.  “So, can I come over and play with you?  You can tell me all about yesterday and we’ll see what we can do with helping you blend in a bit better.”

“I… I do not mind but I must ask Scott, I think.  Can you wait for me?”

        “Sure. You really are super sweet, no wonder he’s crazy about you.  Go ahead.”

“Scott?” he asked, peeking his head into the bedroom.

“Yes?”

“Kelly has asked me if she can come over to play.”

Scott threw his head back and laughed.  “I love that girl.  Would you like her to come?”

“Yes, I think so.  Is it okay if I ask her to not bring her dog?  Or would that be rude?”

“I don’t think she would do that Midge, but yes, you can tell her that the invitation is only for her.”

“Thank you” he answered, and walked back to the living room and picked up his phone. “Scott says that is it alright for you to come and play and that it is okay that I do not want you to bring the dog.”

        “Deal, no Olaf.  Is an hour from now okay?  I’m going to put together a few…. okay a LOT of stuff.  Bags worth.  And then I’ll be over soon.”

“That is fine.  I will be here.”

        “Byyyeeeeeeeeee Midge.”

Scott opened the door 45 minutes later for Kelly and took two bags out of her hands.  “Damn girl, what did you bring?”

        “Hey, you never know what you’re going to need.  I like to be prepared.  Why is it so quiet in here?  It’s so weird, since Midge moved in there’s no music.”

Midge looked at Scott, worried.  “Why do you not have music now?”

“I guess I just noticed that you don’t really like loud sounds, and you were so skittish it just seemed like you’d be more comfortable with it quieter. I don’t know.  Would you like to listen to some?”

“Yes please, as long as it is not too loud.”

“Any preferences?”

“I do not know much, mostly what Trent called ‘the oldies’.  Whatever you would like is fine.”

        Scott looked at Kirstie, one eyebrow raised, and she nodded her head.  “Oh yeah, put the Queen on.  Time for a music lesson Midge.  How many days has it been since you listened to Beyonce, Scott?  Should I call a doctor?”

“This may be the longest stretch in history.  No wonder I got sick….”  He saw Midge’s face and clarified “Joke, Midge, just kidding.  Although music is good for the soul.  Now Kelly what exactly is all this stuff for?”

        “I’m going to see if we can hide Midge’s cat ears.  Can you hear out of both, I mean all four of them?  Both sets?”

“Yes, I think so.”

“Maybe you won’t be quite so sensitive to noise this way.”

        Kelly sat on the couch and told Scott to move the coffee table out of the way.  “Now, can you sit between my knees Midge?  Promise you’ll tell me if I pull, or if anything hurts, okay?”

“If you would like.”

        Kelly spent a few minutes gently brushing his hair out of the way so she could see what she was working with.  “Do they bend forwards easiest or?”

Midge laid his ears down flat.  “They go this way, or perhaps more front, but not back.”

        “Wow, they’re like gone. Okay, would they be comfortable if I made them stay there?”

“Yes, they do not bother me this way.”

        She tried barrettes which pinched, bobby pins which didn’t stay very well,  then a headband which worked fine except that you could see it a bit on the sides and it drew attention to itself.  The ears were easily covered, it was the keeping them down that was tough.  She took off the headband and ruffled his hair and he leaned against her knee.  “You like having your hair played with?”

“Very much”

        “Me too.  I don’t want to treat you too much like a cat though, I worry I’ll offend you.”

“I am hard to offend, especially if you are trying to be kind.”

Scott was belting as he wandered around the apartment, finally taking the time to handle his mail and do a million little things that had piled up the last two weeks.

        “I’ve got it!  Why didn’t I think of this before???  I’m going to glue them.”

That got Scott’s attention.  “WHAT?”

        “Not glue, glue.  You know when women need to hold up their dresses?  There’s tape, and then there’s spirit gum and it works wonders.  It’ll probably hold until he washes his hair, but you’d be able to peel them up carefully if you need to.  Can I try?”

“I am in your hands, I do not mind.” Midge answered, lifting his head.

        She parted his hair carefully and brushed some on, then folded his ear down and held it a moment.  She lifted her finger slowly, but the ear stayed down.  “Does that hurt?”

“No.  It is weird to be down, I can feel it, but it is fine.”

“Okay fine or really fine?” Scott asked.  “It’s not like you can’t wear a hat, this doesn’t have to work.”

“Please do the other.  I think some of the weirdness is because they are different.”  The other ear was soon also down and he felt Kelly smooth his hair down over them.

        “Why don’t you try to wiggle them, or lift them?  But only if it doesn’t hurt.”

“I am now, but I do not think they are moving.”

        “Nope!  I totally did it.”

Chapter 40 – Surprise

Later that afternoon, while Midge took his nap, Scott and Kelly sat on the couch and talked, finally, about everything that had gone wrong the night before.

        “Neither of you mentioned it, so I didn’t bring it up, but was it okay?  He said dinner was fine” she asked.

“Dinner was, because we didn’t eat there. Midge is really, really good at avoiding answering things he doesn’t want to.  Sebastian, Misty’s” He threw his fingers in the air in the universal quote, unquote signal “owner is an ASS” he hissed, not wanting to wake Midge.  “I hit him.”

        “You WHAT?” she asked, leaning in.

“He was a total tool the whole time and fucking ordered Midge around, to see if he could.  And then, THEN, he asked me if I wanted to switch with him for the weekend so he could…. I lost it Kake, fucking LOST.  IT.”

        “Oh my god.  Poor Midge.  Did he get to see Misty at all?”

“She kneeled at Sebastian’s feet for a few minutes before he threatened to get them into a fight, but I don’t think they said a single word.”  He thought about it a moment  “No, not even hello.  When Sebastian told us to get out he grabbed for her hand and said ‘no’ and the bastard HIT MIDGE—”

        “NO!” she interrupted.  “His face, I thought it looked a little swollen but I wasn’t sure and didn’t want to ask.”

“Yeah, if Zac hadn’t been there I think it would have gotten bad.  He was the only one thinking half straight.  I owe him a bottle of something expensive, at the very least.”

        Kelly moved over and sat close to Scott, leaning into him.  He put his arm around her and they sat for a moment, Kelly just trying to take in all she’d been told.

“I want to do something amazing for him, something that will take his mind off yesterday.  I don’t know what though.”

        “Something fun?” she asked.

“Absolutely.  He’s never done anything, so we don’t have to worry about that.  He’d never even been to the beach and this morning I found out he’d never been in an elevator before last night.”

        “I’m going to make a crazy guess that he’s never been to Disneyland then.”

Scott’s eyes lit up and his mouth opened wide.  “And he can ride the rides now because he doesn’t need a hat!  Have I told you lately that you are the BEST?!?”

        “Not enough, no.  Continue” she said, grinning.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you.  You are the most amazing, gorgeous, brilliant woman I have ever known.  You deserve an award and a clothing line.  You rank in my life only below Beyonce and my mother.”

        “Now that IS enough, you goofball.  You two going alone or do you want some company?”

“I think he’d probably feel better with more of us.  You and Jeremy want to come?”

        “He never passes down a chance to go to Disneyland, so I’ll ask.”

“I wonder what he’ll think of all the characters?” Scott asked, contemplating the looks on Midge’s face.

        “And the shows…”

“And the fireworks!  I have never been this excited to go, I can’t wait to see what how much he loves it!.

        “Wonder what he’ll do with a giant turkey leg?”

“Oh hell yes!”

        “Okay, let me run home and change, can’t exactly go in these shoes.  I’ll text you once I hear back from Jeremy.  Could you be any happier though?  Really?  You two are insanely cute together.”

“I am happy, even with yesterday and hating myself for it, I can’t help it.  Every day with him is like Christmas.  This is seriously the best surprise ever.”

        “See you guys later, Scooter.  Love you.”

Chapter 41 – Disneyland

Scott was SO glad Jeremy had offered to drive. For one, he’d spent a lot of hours behind the wheel already the past few days and two, he got to snuggle in the back seat with Midge.

Midge wanted to know where they were going. He understood surprises, and wasn’t scared because he knew Scott and Kelly wouldn’t give him a bad surprise, but he was very, very impatient. Scott had closed his eyes about fifteen minutes ago. “Kelly, may I have a hint?”

    "Sorry Midge, no hints, but we're almost there.  It's only about 5 more minutes."

Scott grinned “I’m awake you know, you can’t get away with that.”

“I know you are but I thought it was okay to try.”

Scott opened his eyes as they exited off the highway. “Have you ever heard of the most magical place on earth?”

“I do not think so. Are we going there?”

“Mmmhmmm. I can’t wait for you to see oooh look!” he pointed. “Can you read that?”

“D…Disn… and. Di-something-land. The middle is hard, it’s long.”

“Disney…”

“DISNEYLAND!!???!!! Disneyland? We are going to Disneyland? Really?” He grabbed Scott’s shirt, needing confirmation. “Please! Is that right?” he pleaded, his eyes wide.

“Yes, yes little one, we’re going to Disneyland.” Midge didn’t say another word, in fact Scott wasn’t even sure he was still breathing until they parked and finally made their way into the park. He and Kelly had decided that Fantasyland was definitely the place to start and would probably take the rest of the day, so they led a wide-eyed Midge down Main Street and up towards the castle.

Midge followed along, glad Scott held his hand because he certainly didn’t want to get lost. There was SO much to look at though, he wished they would slow down and let him look more. He didn’t even think of complaining though, he was just overwhelmed. And then he noticed the castle and stopped dead in his tracks. He couldn’t move, he didn’t even notice as Scott came back and stood beside him so he could get a better view.

“Sleeping Beauty’s castle. What do you think?”

“Its amaaazing!”

“Come on, we can go in.”

“In? We can go IN?” Midge asked, dumbfounded.

“Mmmhmm, come on.”

Only then did Midge move his feet, shuffling along behind Scott and getting in line. Jeremy, Scott and Kelly were talking about splitting up, and when to meet, and making plans but he didn’t care, he was in heaven. Midge watched lots of little girls in beautiful dresses walk by and finally had time to turn and really look at things.

When they were finished with the castle, Kelly and Jeremy wandered off and Scott walked with Midge over to the carousel. “Midge, listen: If you get lost, or I get lost, we will meet right here at the carousel, okay? It’s right in the middle and you’ll be able to see it from almost anywhere. Don’t worry, I’m going to stay with you but just in case, okay?”

“Alright, I will come here if I can not find you. May we ride it?”

“Sure, if you want, let’s get in line.”

They rode the Carousel which was fun but not great, the Dumbo ride that went up in the air and flew, and then spun in crazy huge cups. They went through a really neat Alice in Wonderland ride and then Scott told him it was time for a show, if he’d like to go. “Do you think I would like it?” Midge asked.

“I’m not sure. Have you heard of Beauty and the Beast?”

“Oh yes, it is wonderful!”

“Well, there’s your answer, let’s go.”

And then he watched the most amazing show. It was like watching the movie on TV but better. Belle was beautiful and the Beast was really scary even though Midge knew he was really nice and turned into a handsome prince.

“Okay, what do you say to riding something a little more fun now? Would you like to try a roller coaster? After that we can get something to eat.”

Midge agreed, and they rode a train to a different land. Once he saw what he had agreed to he wanted to change his mind. It was SO high, and he watched how fast they went while they were waiting in line. People were screaming and even though Scott said it was fun, he wasn’t so sure. “Do I have to?”

“No, but how will you know if you like it or not if you don’t?”

“I think I will not like it.” The line moved quickly and before they had much time to talk about it, he was being strapped in, a restraint coming down over his head. He looked to Scott but his was the same and he didn’t seem to mind so he tried to relax.

When the ride slowed and pulled back into the loading zone, Scott looked over to check on Midge and regretted instantly pushing him to try it. Midge was ashen, his knuckles white and lips trembling. “It’s over, it’s alright. We’ll get out in just a second, okay?” He reached for his hand but Midge refused to let go of the handle so he just patted it instead.

Midge scrambled out of the seat as soon as the restraint lifted. He didn’t even wait for Scott, he just ran down the ramp until his feet were on solid ground.

Scott watched him the whole way down and finally caught up with him a moment later. “Hey, hey, wait up” he said, taking his hand. “Come with me, let’s get out of the way so we can talk.”

He followed Scott around the corner and was instantly pulled into his arms.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know it would scare you so much. Are you okay?” Scott asked, worried.

“I am fine but I do not ever want to go again. Is that okay?”

“Yes, whatever you want. Do you feel okay?”

“I feel fine, I just hated it.”

“Okay, that’s fair, let’s meet up with Kelly and Jeremy to get something to eat and then I have a treat for you.”

“A dessert treat?”

“No, but you can definitely have dessert if you want. They do something special at the castle once it’s dark and I think you’ll like it.”

“I am not sure I can trust you. Is it a roller coaster?”

“No” Scott chuckled. “It’s not a ride at all. It’s more of a show.”

“Oooh I love shows!!!” They strolled arm in arm as the sun set and arrived to find Kelly and Jeremy already seated and waiting.

     "How was it Midge?" She asked, her eyes glowing.

“It was all wonderful except for the roller coaster. I hate it.”

    "Aww, I'm sorry.  It's one of those things though, people either love them or hate them, there aren't many people who don't really care one way the other.  But the rest of your day was good?"

“It has been amazing. It is a wonderful place.”

    "I'm so glad.  Did Scott tell you what's next?  It's my favorite part!" she said.

“He said it is a show and not a roller coaster.”

    "He's telling the truth, it is a spectacular show."

Scott watched the two of them talk, amused. It was so good to see Midge so open and comfortable with another person, especially considering how their first meeting had gone. He didn’t seem bothered by Jeremy either, although Scott wasn’t surprised by that since he was such a nice guy. Still, considering what had been going on 24 hours ago, seeing Midge out and having fun was very reassuring.

After dinner they went looking for ‘a spot’ and finally Kelly and Scott agreed on one. Scott and Jeremy sat down next to each other, knees pulled up, and Scott told Midge to sit down and relax against him. He watched Kelly and copied her, still not sure why they were here.

“Are you comfortable?”

“I am. Where is the show?”

“It’ll start in about 10 minutes, and it’s up there.” Scott pointed towards the sky above the castle.

Midge didn’t quite understand but thought he would wait and figure it out in 10 minutes. It would be hard to miss a show, after all. Looking around he noticed that lots of people were sitting and standing around, all waiting for the show. A few minutes later a bomb exploded in the sky and he ducked, curling his head into Scott’s chest.

“No, no, it’s okay. They’re fireworks. Watch.”

He lifted his head just as two more went off, the noise deafening. He covered his ears and cringed. He looked over as Jeremy tapped his arm with a pair of headphones, and slipped them on. There was music playing, helping to hide the big booms and noise.

Scott looked over, mouthing ‘Thank you’ and wrapped his arms tighter around Midge. He should have realized that even with his ears down, this was going to be LOUD for him. Scott was so used to concerts and noise that it didn’t phase him, but it obviously bothered Midge. He relaxed a bit when Midge lifted his head and pointed to a particularly huge one.

They were amazing, now that he wasn’t so scared. There were all different colors, and even different shapes, and they filled the sky. Every time he thought maybe they were finished, more would go off. He leaned forward, his head darting left and right to try to see the next one the moment it exploded. Soon he realized where they were coming from and he started following the small rocket through the sky as it rose higher and higher.

Scott watched Midge’s face instead of the fireworks finale. The ooohs and ahhhs coming out of his mouth were music to his ears and the light in his eyes was almost as bright as the ones overhead. Once the show was over and people started to go they stood and made their way down Main Street. Along the way they saw the vendors walking through the crowd, selling everything imaginable from glow necklaces, swords and hats to amazing balloons. “What would you like?”

“Oh, I do not need anything, it is just all so bright and happy that I like to look. Is that okay?”

“Always, but I’d like to buy you something too.”

“I do not need a ‘thing’ Scott, I have memories and you. How could I need more?”

Scott pulled him a bit closer. “Okay, but next time we come I’m getting you mouse ears.”

Midge just scrunched up his nose and raised his eyebrows in a look of utter revulsion which made Scott laugh.

Once they were settled in the car and back on the highway, Scott remembered to thank Jeremy for saving the show. “Thanks for the headphones, they seemed to help a lot.”

    "I have a friend who can't deal with loud noises either and she says music helps block out other stuff.  I'm glad it helped a little bit."

“It helped a lot Jeremy, thank you” Midge said “and thank you all for taking me to Disneyland. I will never forget it, ever.”

    "You're welcome Midge.  What was your favorite part?" Kelly asked.

“I liked the fireworks best, I think, but I really liked the flying Dumbo ride too. Can I have two favorites? It was not very scary but it made my stomach all tingly. It was fun.” He loosened his seat belt a little so he could snuggle up a little bit with Scott. “Thank you Scott, for today.”

“You’re so welcome Midgey. I’m glad you liked your surprise. We’ll come back sometime, there’s still lots more to see.”

“Ohhh, oooh, I…. I would like that very much.”

Chapter 42 – Tattoo

The next morning they went out to breakfast and came back to have a lazy Saturday afternoon at the apartment.  “Hey Midge, I DVR’d The Voice, want to watch?” Scott asked, grabbing the remote.

“I would be happy to.”  He curled onto the couch next to Scott and waited while he went through the menu screen.

“Have you seen it before?”

“I have not.  It is people singing?” He asked, watching the intro.

“Yep, a competition.  They have to be chosen and then they split into teams.  It’s fun to hear them sing, some of them are really good.  Not as good as you are, obviously, but good.”

They watched in content silence, Scott commenting about the contestants he had been watching the past few weeks and the ones he was rooting for until he noticed the drool practically dripping down Midge’s chin every time Adam Levine was on the screen.  “He’s hot as hell, is he your type?”

“Type?  I do not have one.  He is handsome, I agree, but I love his tattoos.”

“Is that what you’re staring at?  I find that hard to believe, but I’ll roll with it.”

“I love them” Midge said wistfully.

“Ever think about getting one? Or a whole sleeve?” he asked, surprised that Midge would want ink.  It didn’t seem to go with what he knew of him and he was interested in this new peek into his personality.

“Not really.  I think they are beautiful but I may not have one.  Unless you desire it, of course.”

“Why not?  They’re not my thing but it’s your body.”

“It is not.  Why would you say that?”  Midge really didn’t understand the things that came out of his Scott’s mouth sometimes.  He looked down at his bracelet and smiled.

“Because it’s true.  Ever notice how there are two bodies on the couch and two of us?  That’s because I get one and you get one.  Works great that way.”

“I can not alter my body, that must be your decision.” Midge said, shaking his head at Scott’s silliness.

Scott tensed up a bit and felt Midge shift, knew he had noticed.  “No, I would never… I don’t know how to say it so I guess I’ll use your words, alter your body.  Those choices are yours.  How you do your hair, whether you let this cute beard grow, if you want piercings or tattoos, the clothes you wear, that’s all stuff you have to decide.  I have no say in any of it.”

Midge knew his automatic response would be wrong, so he rolled the words around in his head awhile.  How do I explain this?   “I will most likely be worth less if I have a tattoo, so if it is your choice, it is also your loss.  I do not have the right to…  I do not know how to explain it.”

“I don’t care how much you’re worth because you’re never being sold again.”  He pulled him closer, suddenly not nearly close enough.  “So what would you get?”

“Get?  Do you mean as a tattoo?”

“Yes.”

“Whatever you wanted.”

“No, try again.  What would you LIKE to get?”

“If it was my choice?  I do not know.  I think I would like a cat.”

“Where would you put it?”

“On my arm, I think, so I could see it” Midge answered, extending his arm and rotating it as if looking for the perfect spot.

“Are you sure you would really like one?”

“Yes.  I have wanted one for a long time.  I would like many, truthfully, like him, Adam.”

“If you’re sure, we’ll go get one” he said, planting a kiss on his head.

Midge turned and lifted up so he could see Scott’s face.  “Are you joking with me?  You said you did not like them.”

“I like YOU and I can deal with a cat.  A huge flaming skull on your face would require a hell of a discussion, I think, but I’m not going to get upset over a cat on your arm.  And we wouldn’t discuss it because I control you, we’d discuss it because I don’t know if I could stand to look at it all that much and I would hope you would take my feelings into account before you made the decision.”

“But I should take your feelings into account now and you do not like tattoos.”

“I said they weren’t my thing, and I don’t plan on getting any more, but I don’t mind them on other people.  We should get online and you can look for what you want.  They’ll have books and things, but there will be more online.  I’ll call and ask Lia where she gets hers done.  She has a ton and they’re gorgeous.”

“I can not believe you will let me get one.  Are you sure you do not want to think about this more?”

“Don’t need to think about it, you do.  It’s going to be on your body” Scott answered, booting up the Ipad and handing it over once he’d googled ‘cat tattoo’.  He pulled out his phone and called Lia, catching up and asking about her ink.  “Okay, she says to go to Allie and she’ll text me the info.  Should I call and make you an appointment?”

“If you are sure, yes.”

A few minutes later he was hanging up.  “She sounds awesome, and she’ll fit you in tonight at 7.  You’re all set, so now is the time to panic if you’re going to.”

“If it is alright, I will just be excited instead.”

Chapter 43 – Another

Scott had to give it to him, that boy was cool as a cucumber, although where that saying had come from he’d probably never understand. Midge sat in the car as if someone weren’t about to put something permanent on his body with a needle, or gun, or whatever they called it. Yeah, he’d done it but only because the rest of his family had done it too, in support of his dad, and it was an all-or-nothing deal. No regrets but his was well hidden, not out on his arm for everyone to see.

Midge was excited and still rather confused that Scott was letting him, but he’d been replaying their conversation over in his head while they drove. Did he really think of things that way? That Midge was practically free? Because that’s the way he talked, as if he had autonomy and control and wasn’t in service.
Impossible.
He shook is head to clear it and looked at the glowing neon sign above the door.
It’s not as pretty as Disneyland.

The walked in and Scott looked over to make sure Midge wasn’t pulling a roller coaster and changing his mind. There was no way he was going to push him into this.

Midge was wide-eyed, his eyes scanning the room until they came to rest on a beautiful girl hunched over her work table in a side room, organizing and preparing for her next client.

When she looked up, the first thing Scott noticed was her eyes; they were a brilliant bright green, the same green as Midge’s, and huge. She had porcelain skin and a gorgeous smile. He looked back down at Midge who had his head cocked to the side, a serious look on his usually relaxed face.

    "Hi, I'll be with you in just a second.  Are you Midge?" she asked.

“I am” he answered softly, his voice flat as he squeezed Scott’s hand.

    "I'm Allie.  Feel free to have a seat or look around."

“Scott?” Midge asked, edging closer towards her.

“What is it? Do you know her?” he whispered.

“No. I do not think so. But there is a Neko here, or was, I am not sure.”

“Really? How do you know?”

“I can smell her, but it is not very strong. It is everywhere though, I do not know….” He took a few more steps towards her room and paused, then turned and walked back to the chairs near the door. “No, it is not her” he said, his shoulders slumped.

“But are you sure because those eyes… I mean she looks….”

“I know. She could be, but it is not her. Maybe when I am closer to her I will be able to figure things out, but please, please do not say anything. It may not be safe.”

“I won’t. Whatever you want Midge, you know a LOT more about this whole business than I do.”

    "So, did you bring a picture?" she asked, walking over.

“I did.” He pulled the paper from his pocket, smoothing it and handing it over.

    "Are you sure about the all black? I can throw some color in for you if you'd like.  This is really cute though."

“I am sure.”

    "Okay, let me print it out and we'll do placement next.  I'll be right back and then we'll go to the chair."  Once she had the computer up and running, she turned her head towards the back.  "Viktoria?" she called.

    "Yeah Allie?" came a lyrical voice from another side room.

    "My appointment is here and I'll be about an hour, can you catch the walk-ins?"

    "Absolutely.  I'll keep an eye out."

A few minutes later Midge was sitting back in the chair, his right arm resting next to Allie and she was diligently starting the outline. Scott held his hand while Allie worked, although Midge said it didn’t really hurt. It was practically hurting Scott though, so he held on. The entire time he wondered what Midge was smelling, or seeing, or hearing and whether or not he’d figured everything out. Allie was a hoot though, and they laughed and talked and the time flew by.

Midge knew the moment he sat down in the chair that Allie was not Neko. Where the smell was coming from was harder to discern though. Was it simply another customer who had been in before them? It didn’t seem so, it was very spread out, but perhaps she had walked around? He just couldn’t tell. The scent wasn’t particularly strong on Allie or her clothes, so he didn’t think she owned one, which was his first thought once he realized she wasn’t Neko herself.

“Can I see some of yours, Allie? I like to look at them” Midge said when Allie stopped to clean up his arm.

    "Of course"  She pulled the neck of her shirt down a bit and showed him a few that he hadn't been able to see before.

“I like the stars, they are  so bright!” Midge exclaimed. “You have a yummy strawberry.”

    "Yeah" she said, smiling.  "It's an inside joke and a long story but it's pretty much an 'F-You'.

“Creative way of doing it” Scott said, grinning. “I like it.”

    "Okay, all set.  I'll wrap it up for you and then you can pay" she announced, hopping up.

“So?” Scott hissed, impatient.

“I like it. Do you not?”

“It’s awesome but I meant HER!”

“Oh, she is not but I do not know much more.” He looked down at his forearm. “I never thought I would have one, and if I did, not one I liked so much.”

Scott refocused, realizing that the kitten on his arm was definitely the most important thing going on right now. “I’m so glad. You should love whatever you put on your body.”

“I hope it does not displease you.”

“You finally accepting that you, and all of this” he said, his eyes roaming up and down his sleek body “is yours makes me very happy. I know it’s hard, but we’re getting there.”

“Thank you Scott, for this. Could we please go this way?” He walked the long way to the register, boldly walking in front of Scott and asking him to follow. He walked past Viktoria’s now open door slowly, then passed by her while she organized the magazines on the table.

Scott shot him a questioning look but he nodded his head ‘no.’ She wasn’t Neko either.

“So, let me know when you’re ready to do his next one” Scott said, paying Allie and giving her a good tip.

    "Anytime, just give me a call.  I can certainly make room for the two of you. I'm glad Lia sent you my way."

“Thank you Allie, for my lovely gift.”

    "Oh you're welcome honey, I'm so glad you like it."

Chapter 44 – Accept

****This is very, very PG-13 and not absolutely necessary to read.  You can skip if you’d like.

When they crawled in bed that night, Midge propped his head up on his elbow.  “Scott?”

“Yes Midgey?” he asked, arranging the blankets around Midge’s back.

“I would like to say something that I should not say, but that I think you may want to hear.  I am not sure what to do.”

“If you want to say it, you should.  If I want to hear it that’s just a bonus.”  Midge blushed and he watched, becoming more curious by the second.

“It is impertinent and unnecessary but I… never mind.”  he sighed and lay his head down on Scott’s chest.

’Please tell me.“

“I would like to make sure that you know I do not mind if you use me.  It is your right, of course, but I worried… I do not know.”

“Don’t know what Midge?”

“If you do not use me because you do not want me, or if you think you should not for some reason.”

“I do want you, trust me, that is NOT an issue.  But I won’t even consider it until you stop calling it that.”

Midge rolled his words over, thinking.  “How would you prefer me to say it?”

“I think you’re being honest, and that’s how you see it so you can call it being ‘used’, it’s fine.  But I won’t use you, ever.  Maybe in time you’ll think of it differently, and when you do we’ll work it out.”

Midge wasn’t sure why he had a lump in his chest, but it was there.  “I would like to please you.”

“And I would like to please you.” Scott kissed his forehead and then leaned down to meet his lips.

Midge didn’t stop though, he was soon rolled on top of Scott, his weight resting on his outstretched arms as he hovered above him.  “But you will not… you do not desire… I do not KNOW what to call it.  To fuck me?  I do not like that word but I will use it if you prefer it.”

“I’m not going to fuck you either.  Although that’s a lot better than ‘use’ in my book.  And that’s not at ALL what I said.  I have never wanted anyone so much.”  He ran his hands up and down his back, threading one up through his hair as Midge rolled his head back for more contact.

Midge rocked his hips against Scott lazily, enjoying the friction.  “I enjoyed the other night, when we played.  When you played with me.  I would like more.  You will tell me if I am too forward?  My mouth gets me in trouble sometimes.”

“I love your mouth and everything that comes out of it almost as much as I like going IN it” he answered, chuckling.  He reached his hands down and cupped MIdge’s ass, pulling him down to grind against him.

“But I can make you feel good in other ways.”

“Mmmhmm, I know.”

“But you do not want to?”  He was rocking his hips faster now, leaning down to get as much contact as possible.

“Do you want to?” Scott asked, bucking his hips upwards.

“Yes…. I think so.  I…. I want to make you feel good.  I want to be yours.”

“When I think you can actually give yourself to me, I will be more than ready” he answered, reaching down to grab Midge in his hand, stroking him slowly.

“But ooooh yes, I…. But you said it was my body so if it is mine, it is mine to give, yes?”

“Mmm, that sounds very good.  Much closer.  Yes.  It is yours to give.”

“Then I give it to you, my Scott.”  He leaned down and flicked his tongue over his nipple, then sucked the small peak into his mouth.  “If you want it.”

Scott rolled over, taking Midge with him so he ended up beneath him.  “I want to make love to you.”

“You and your words of love.”

“You used them the other day, you said Misty loved Sebastian.”

“I said it because it was the easiest way to explain and I knew that you would understand it that way.”

“But you don’t, what?  Believe in it?  Feel it?  What?”

“I do not know but I know that I want to pleasure you, and for you to pleasure me, because it will make us happy and I want to make you happy more than anything else I can think of.  I want to belong to you in all the ways I can and this is important to me.”

“It’s very important to me, too. How do I know if you’re ready?  I have wanted you since the day I met you, well, once I realized you weren’t crazy” he joked.

Midge leaned up and nipped at his shoulder, running his tongue along his neck.  His tail curled around Scott’s thigh and his hands ran down his sides.  “Please?” he asked.

“I won’t take, but if you want to give yourself to me….”  He sank back down towards his knees, trailing kisses down his chest and stomach.  “I accept.”

***** For those of you who are thirsty (which judging by the last private chapter is MOST of you lol)  I’ll write what happens next in chapter 44 and a half and post it as private.

Chapter 45 – Away

Midge didn’t hop right out of bed the next morning like he usually did.  Instead he rested, curled up at Scott’s side. When he finally did get up he took care of himself in the bathroom and then set up the coffee machine and grabbed a glass of milk, his morning ritual.

He perched on the window sill to sip his milk and watch the world go by and when that was done, he grabbed his sketch pad. He wasn’t sure what to draw to get some of his feelings out, but he knew this was the best way. He was still holding his pencil when he heard Scott come up behind him.

“Morning Midge” he said, still groggy. When Midge tried to climb down he held up his hand. “Coffee, right? I can get my own.” He kissed him on the forehead and grabbed his cup, sitting down on the couch. “So, can I see what you’re working on?”

“I have not started today, I just woke up.”

“Can I see others then, or are they private?”

“Private? I have nothing private from you. You may see them if you wish.” He climbed down and handed the book to Scott, curling up at his side.

He held it in his hands but didn’t turn the page. “Speaking of privacy, we need to get a bigger apartment. Why don’t we go looking today?”

“You do not like this apartment?”

“I want you to have your own room, your own space.”

Midge felt like he’d been struck. He swallowed, forcing down the panic and trying to think.
What have I done wrong? I did not please you, you do not want me.
“Alright.”
I’m sorry!
“I will get dressed.”

“No rush, most complexes won’t be open yet anyway. I’ll make a few calls, I’d love to get a place at Jake’s if they have vacancies.” When he heard the bathroom door close he turned the page back and looked at Midge’s most recent drawing. It was of his tattoo, and really well done. He’d used shading to make it 3-dimensional.

The previous page was not such a happy drawing. Scott wasn’t sure what it was; it was very abstract, black with hints of red. He couldn’t help but feel angry, just from looking at it. It brought out feelings he didn’t want Midge to ever feel.

He turned back one more and that was, again, not something he would hang on the wall. Is that Misty’s collar? A hand? The colors and lines were so mixed that it was hard to tell where one part of the drawing began and another ended, they were just layered on top of each other.

Behind that page was a portrait of a man. Dark curly hair, an arrogant smirk and dark, dark eyes.
Who is this?

He heard the door open and closed the book, feeling like he had pried, that he shouldn’t have looked. He looked up at Midge and grinned. “Sorry I missed you this morning, want to cuddle and watch a cartoon?”

“If you would like.” Midge walked methodically over and sat down, curling against the corner of the couch.

“Are you okay? With everything that happened last night?” he asked, concerned. Midge seemed distracted, worried about something.

“Yes, it was… different and very nice. Thank you for being so kind to me. I… do not know how to thank you.”

“No thanks required, I’m just glad you’re okay this morning. If you want to talk, please talk to me about it, okay?” He ran his fingers through his hair and rested his head on the back of the couch, relaxed.

“I will.” he answered softly.
Do you want me to go? I should go. You are too kind to ask me leave. You should not have to move. I ruined everything last night but I do not understand how.

“Spongebob work for you?”

“Yes, he is silly. I like this one a lot.”

Scott tried to focus on the cartoon but all he could think about was the ball of guilt in his gut for looking at Midge’s book. “Midge, I looked through your drawings. I’m sorry if you didn’t want me to.”

“You may look at them whenever you like.”

“I won’t, again, unless you offer to show me. Some of them were very dark, did you do those after the trip to see Misty?”

“Two of them, I think. The ones that are not really pictures.”

“I know which ones you mean.” Scott tried to decide whether to ask, but he wanted to know. “Who was the man?”

“Oh, I drew a picture of my first master. Does it displease you? I promise that it was not meant to anger or hurt you.”

“You can draw absolutely anything you want. Your choice. You don’t even like to say his name, do you?”

“No, I prefer not to. It is up to you. Would you like me to?”

“No, no, that’s fine. I know who you mean Midge. You don’t have to say things the way I want; as long as I understand you it doesn’t matter. I’m going to call Jake and then we’ll do some looking, okay?”

“Of course.” When Scott went into the bedroom he slipped on his shoes, grabbed his hoodie and two granola bars from the counter, and slipped out the door. In his pockets were the spirit gum Kelly had left him for his ears, his toothbrush, an extra t-shirt and another pair of socks.

Scott dialed and gathered up his dirty clothes, throwing them in the hamper. He had been talking to Jake for a few minutes when he glanced over and saw something on the bed reflecting the light. He reached out and picked up Midge’s bracelet. Jumping up, he ran into the living room and looked around but he knew, without even calling out for him, that he was gone.

Chapter 46 – Search

Scott hung up the phone and ran down the stairs.  Once he was on the street, he looked left and then right before calling Midge’s name three times.  He took the time to slip on the shoes he’d grabbed and went to check his car.  On the way, he thought about calling everyone who knew Midge to look, but he didn’t want them to panic.  Midge couldn’t be far, he just had to find him.

There was no sign of Midge in the parking lot and he had to admit to himself that he’d really been hoping he would be curled up in the backseat.  Scott didn’t understand, Midge had never left before and nothing had happened!  What had happened?  Why would he take off his bracelet and leave it?  It made no sense.

Midge had stayed with assholes who used and abused him, he’d stayed with a dying man who gave him nothing in return, but he’d left him.  HIM!  How could he give himself to me last night and leave me today?  Is that why he did it?  Was he planning it all along?  How much was true?  How could he leave me?

He took one last look around the parking lot and made his way towards the apartment via the alley he’d first found Midge in.  He stopped shouting, realizing that Midge would be able to hear him, and he’d have a better chance of finding him if no one called the cops.  The problem was, he didn’t think Midge would answer.

He glanced at the apartment building and up the street and turned left.  He had NO idea where Midge would go.  He didn’t have any money so he didn’t need to check the restaurants.  He went 4 blocks before he turned up and went one block over, then made his way back home.

He walked into the apartment building and went up the stairs but Midge wasn’t there, so he went back down and turned right this time, looking everywhere he could think.  He went down alleys and looked behind trash cans.  There was no sign of him.  Scott decided he needed help and called Zac, hoping he was home from Phoenix by now.  “Hey, are you home?” he asked.

        “Yep, got in an hour ago.  How’s Midge?”

“Gone.  He slipped out of the apartment earlier and I can’t find him.  I need help Zac, please.”

        “I’ll be right there.”

“Thank you so much.  Check the apartment stairs and then head out.  I made a right, I’m almost at Prescott street and then I’m going to loop back and check the parking lot again.”

        “Alright, I’ll check in after I get there and look around.”

Two hours later Scott was exhausted.  He and Zac sat in Starbucks, checking in with each other and trying to get a bit of energy back while they strategized.  “Thanks for trying Zac.”

        “I’ll keep looking, I don’t mind.  I just don’t know…. I feel like we’ve looked everywhere.

“I know, and it’s going to be dark soon.”

****  ****  ****  ****

Midge closed the door behind him and slinked down the stairs.  He didn’t have a destination in mind and he didn’t have a plan either.  He just had to go, somewhere, anywhere, so that Scott could be happy.  He could not repay his kindness if he could not bring him joy.  At least this time he had a little bit of food and clothes that fit, with comfortable shoes.

He made his way to the park he could see from the living room window.  Once there he found a good tree and climbed up, hiding in the branches.  He wished he had known of this park when he left Steven, it was much nicer than the alley.

He knew he should plan and try to figure things out but all he could think about was what he had done wrong.  He thought giving himself to Scott would be a good thing and would make his master happy.  But it was obvious that he had made Scott angry, or disappointed him.  He did not want him to share his bed any more, but why?

Midge was listening to a feedback loop of blame in his head and he couldn’t break out of it.  It didn’t really matter though, exactly what he had done wrong. It must have had been so, so bad for my Scott to not want me anymore.   And Scott had still been kind to him this morning, even though he didn’t want him around.  He’d had to leave, he couldn’t make his master unhappy.

The realization hit him like a ton of bricks.  He jumped so much he nearly fell out of the tree, only his quick reflexes saved him. I left my master!  Oh no, I can not.  What did I do?  I can not leave my master!

He jumped back down and ran the two blocks home, quickly climbing the stairs and trying the door.  It was locked though, so he knocked.  A moment later he tried again, louder this time but Scott didn’t open the door.  I do not blame him, this is not done.  What have I done?

He went back outside and to the parking lot where he knew there would be mirrors and fixed his ears.  That taken care of, he went to the small coffee shop behind the lot and asked for a pen, scrawling a note on a napkin, hoping Scott would be able to read it.  He went to the door and knocked once more, then put the note under when it didn’t open.

I am so sorrie.  I want to com home if you let me.  pleese let me in. 

Midge

He went back to the coffee shop to wait and wrote another note just in case Scott still would not open the door.  At the apartment he knocked but was not surprised when Scott didn’t answer.  He stuck this note under the door as well, then went back to his tree to wait.

pleese forgiv me I am sorrie masture.  I promiss to be good.

Midge

Chapter 47 – Dusk

Scott and Zac decided to walk to the apartment one more time, then each take one side of the street and do one last sweep before they called it a night and rallied the troops for a larger search tomorrow.

    "Scott, where did he come from?  Where was he before you found him?"

“Some guy who worked at a restaurant, Steven I think… I don’t know. Midge ran away, it must not be too far from here but I don’t know where he lived. He wouldn’t go back there though.”

    "You don't even know which restaurant so we could track the guy down?  Or maybe know which direction he WOULDN'T go in?"

“No, I… I didn’t ask. He hates to talk about his past, I mean he told me some, enough that I wouldn’t bug him about it. I don’t want to think he’s been lying, I don’t. No, I mean Misty was obviously his sister, why wouldn’t the rest be true? I just don’t know. He said he would never leave if he was owned, I don’t get it! It makes no fucking sense and now he’s…. what if something happens to him?”

    "I don't know what to tell you Scott.  He's a pretty tough guy though, it seems, and he's not stupid.  We'll find him tomorrow, okay?  We'll have a LOT more people and be able to do a huge circle around the apartment.  Maybe he's waiting for us, let's go see if we can possibly be that lucky."

---

Midge watched a girl walk up, pulling a scuffed suitcase behind her. Her hair was dirty and she looked sad, but her energy was calm. He didn’t panic until she put her suitcase on the ground against his tree’s trunk and sat down on it.
How do I get down? I must go see if Scott has forgiven me.

He looked around but none of the branches were really long enough that he could climb out and jump down a safe distance from her; he was stuck. She was just a girl though, maybe he could simply ask her to move? Or maybe it would be best to wait a few more minutes and see if she left? That seemed less rude, so he waited.

As dusk inched closer and closer to dark, he realized she was there for the night. He’d slept outside times before but he wasn’t sure why she was. He was lonely though, and curious, and needed to get down so he softly called out to her. “Ma’am? Miss? Excuse me.”

    Ashley heard the voice and looked around, panicked, but there was no one nearby.  This was her spot, anyway, and all the regulars knew that.

“Excuse me, but may I please come down?”

    "Come down?"  She looked up then and jumped back, startled at the sight of a boy siting in the tree above her.  "Get out of my tree!"

“Yes, I would like to. Thank you.” He climbed down easily and started to walk away but turned back. “Why are you sleeping out here? Did you run away?”

    "None of your business.  Who the hell are you?"

“I am Midge. I slept outside a few times and it is not fun. I am sorry.”

    "You don't LOOK like one of us.  Where's your stuff?"

“It is in my pockets. I must ask my master one more time if I may come home but if he will not let me, may I please come sleep here?”

    "Your master, eh?  He must be a kinky fuck.  What'd you do to get thrown out?"

“I ran away. I have misbehaved and he will not let me back in. I do not blame him, it is a more kind punishment than I deserve. I do not know what else will happen later.”

    "Are you one of those leather boys who walks in the parade?"

“I am… no I have never been in a parade. I watched one on television many few years ago, I love the balloons and all the pretty costumes.”

    "I didn't mean the damn Thanksgiving parade, dude.  You're a riot.  Yeah, yeah, go home to your 'master' and if he won't have you, you can sleep here but ONLY tonight, got it?"

“Thank you, that is very kind. Why are you sleeping here?”

    "I got thrown out too, but there's NO way I'm going back.  Hey, do you have any food?"

Midge pulled one of the granola bars out of his pocket and handed it to her. “Yes, I will share.”

    "Thanks dude, and good luck."

---

Scott unlocked his front door and opened it, Zac close behind. He’d refused to leave quite yet, wanting to make sure Scott had something to eat and help make phone calls and plans for tomorrow. Scott was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t see the notes at his feet, but Zac did.

    "Scott?  Notes."

He grabbed the napkins and turned them around, reading the messages. “He wants to come home. He came back. But I wasn’t FUCKING HERE!!! Shit shit SHIT! I’m so fucking stupid!”

    "No, hey, calm down, this is good, right?  What does it say?  Where is he?"

“Nothing, everything. He’s sorry, he wants to come home, he fucking called me master again. Is he only coming back because of that? I don’t know and I don’t fucking care, he needs to come back! I don’t know where he IS!!” he growled in frustration.

    "But he's around and he wants to come back, that's all really good, right?" Zac offered, trying to calm him down.  "It's getting dark, maybe he'll come back once he thinks it's safer to walk around?"

“Maybe. Do you think so?” Scott looked out the window at the deepening dusk, lights already illuminating the parts of the city people wanted to see.

Chapter 48 – Reunion

Midge walked up the stairs but he didn’t want to, he was too scared of what would happen. If Scott didn’t open the door this time, what would it mean? Maybe he’d try once more in the morning, in case he wanted him to spend the night outdoors as punishment but after that…. he would know that he was no longer wanted.

When he reached their landing the door was propped open with Scott’s shoe holding it. His breathing went crazy and he smiled, then took a step. And then he stopped. He had to prepare himself, this was not going to be okay. Scott had never hurt him, but after what he had done today he deserved it. He felt like a failure. Whatever would happen would happen and standing out here only gave Scott more time to be mad.

“MIDGE!” Scott leaped up from the couch and ran over, pulling him into his arms. “You’re safe, are you safe? Are you okay?”

“I am fine. I am so sorry.”

Scott pushed him back a bit and took a good look at him.
He seems unhurt . “Go sit down, please.” He closed the door behind him and turned, Zac coming over.

    "I'm gonna go, you guys need to talk."

“I… okay.” A huge part of Scott wanted to ask him to stay, but he’d already done so much today. “Thank you so much.”

    "No problem.  I'll call Jake and the gang if you take care of your Quarner."

“You’re such a dork. Yeah, I’ll call them. Thanks.” Once they were alone, he walked over and stood, looking down at Midge. “Want to tell me what the FUCK happened?” He was mad, now that he knew he was safe, and wanted answers. He needed to know where he stood, what had happened, WHY.

Midge said nothing, just curled up tighter. I wish Marley was out here. He’d seen Scott angry before but nothing like this, and not directed at him. He saw him trying to control it but he felt it, it was rolling off him in waves.

“Talk to me. Explain yourself, please.”

“I am sorry. I should not have gone.”

“I can’t argue with that. How did you, anyway? I thought you weren’t allowed. How can you just take off your bracelet and leave me like that? You didn’t leave THEM!”

“You told me you would let me leave Sir. I thought…. but I could not. I could not do it even though you gave me permission.”

“I… I did. I said that. But NOT without a word, without telling me, without talking to me!”

“I was trying to help.”

“It’s like you don’t even speak English. What are you TALKING about? Look, I try to be patient but you never say what you mean. How am I supposed to know what’s going on?”

“I am doing my best. I am sorry.”

“Why is it so damn hard to talk to me?”

“I do not have much practice. I have talked more in these few weeks than in 6 years. I am sorry I do not do a very good job.”

The anger finally left Scott and he felt like a balloon that had been popped. He sat down on the couch and put his head in his hands. “Why did you leave? And please try to say it so I can understand. I don’t care what words you use, and I won’t be mad, but I need to know.”

“You do not want me any more. I displeased you, although I do not know how. I am sorry for whatever I did.”

“What are you talking about? Last night was… is it about last night? I thought you wanted… if I pushed I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! But you said… and….did I hurt you? Scare you?” he asked, his voice down to a ragged whisper. “But that doesn’t make sense. How could that make you think I didn’t want you?”

“I did want and I am not hurt. I say that because it is true. You do not want me to share your bed. I am sorry I did not please you, is it because… how did you say it? Because I am broken? I can be trained to perform however you would like. I would try to bring you joy but you did not even give me a chance. You are finished with me and I understand, it is your choice. I just wish I knew why.”

“Finished with you? I spent all day looking for you, worried sick! And what do you mean ‘broken’, did I say that? What do you mean I don’t want you in my bed? You DID please me. It’s like we’re talking about two different fucking things, I don’t understand!” He threw his hands up in exasperation.

“I am sorry. I do not know how to help. But if I pleased you, why may I not sleep with you again?”

“Why wouldn’t you? Other than the fact that you ran away of course. I mean, I’m not the most perceptive guy sometimes but you obviously don’t want to and that’s okay. You could have just TOLD me Midge. We could have talked about it. I’m not going to do anything you don’t want to, we don’t have to. But why did you run instead of talking about it?”

“I was scared you would tell me not to leave.”

“Of COURSE I would have!!! And then you wouldn’t have, right? So that means you wanted to?” He stared into his huge eyes, trying to figure out the answers. “God, can we just start this whole thing over? I’m so fucking confused.”

“Whatever you like.”

“No. NO NO NO! Okay, I can’t do this right now. I just can’t. You’re here, and safe, and that’s enough. Are you hungry?”

“Yes.”

“Can you please go make yourself something to eat and go in the bedroom? Take your books, your sketchpad, whatever. I just need to think, okay?”

“Of course.” He made himself a glass of milk and a quick sandwich and went into the bedroom, curling up in the corner to draw and wondering what Scott was planning.

Scott moved a chair in front of the main door and spent some time on his phone before spending a very uncomfortable night sleeping upright.

Chapter 49 – Listen

Midge lay in bed listening for Scott to call him or come get him but neither of those things happened.  The apartment got very, very quiet so eventually, around 4 am, he figured that Scott had gone to sleep.  He snuck out the door and to the bathroom, then detoured into the living room to check on him.  He found Scott, of course, but couldn’t figure out why he would sleep there.  Then he realized that he meant to keep him in.  But why didn’t he just chain me? He grabbed the blanket from the couch and covered him up, then curled up next to Scott’s feet and tried to get some sleep.

Scott shifted for about the 18th time that night, then noticed the daylight coming through the windows and decided he HAD to get out of this chair no matter how tired he was. He pushed down the blanket he didn’t remember having and spotted Midge sleeping on the cold, hard floor.  The crazy boy hadn’t even gone over on the carpet, he’d lay down as close to Scott as he could get.  “Midge?”

“Yes Si.. Scott.  Sir?” He looked up, trying to figure out which one was right, what Scott wanted.

“It will ALWAYS be Scott.  Just Scott.  Not Sir and absolutely not master.  Please.  Why are you sleeping down there?”

“I did not want to leave you.  I know you said… I am sorry.  You said to go to the room and you did not tell me I could come out.”  He stood and took a few steps before Scott could grab his hand.

“No, it’s fine.  You’re not like, what?  Grounded?  I just, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have told you what to do.  I was so mentally fried, I just couldn’t even think.”

“It is fine.  I just… I missed you.  What would you like me to do?”

“What do YOU want to do?  You look exhausted.”

“I am tired but you are also tired and did not sleep well.  Why did you not you chain me so you could sleep without worrying?”

“CHAIN?  What? NO.  No no no, I was just scared you’d leave and I’d never find you.  I would never… I didn’t mean to trap you.  I did though, didn’t I?  Fuck.  I am such a fuck up!  I’m sorry.”

“It is fine.”

“No it’s not.  I just, I knew we didn’t fix anything and I still don’t know why you left and if I had woken up this morning and you were gone again… I don’t know what I would do.”

“Does it make you sad?  I did not mean to make you sad.”

“You’re breaking my heart Midge, I … I need to fix this, now.  I can’t deal.  Can we talk?  Can we try this again?”

“Of course.”

Once Midge was seated on the couch with him, he tried to make him understand.  “I’ve realized that I need to be really, really specific with you, it’s the only way we have a chance of getting through this.  So, yes/no questions, and I want the truth please.  Question 1.  Did I do or say something that made you leave?”

“Yes” he answered softly.

“What?  Was it the night before?”

“No.  That was the most… no.”

“Something that morning?”

“Yes.” Midge didn’t know where to look.

“That made you think I didn’t want you, right?”

He couldn’t say the word, so he just nodded.

“What did I say?” Scott asked, bewildered.

“You told me you did not want me with you.”

“No, I NEVER said that.  It’s not true, at ALL, so I know I didn’t say it.  What did I say?  Exactly?”

“You said I should move to my own room and be alone.”

Scott tilted his head back and sighed.  “The apartment.  You ran away because I wanted to give you… you thought…… alright.  Okay.  We’re getting somewhere.  But I didn’t mean I didn’t want you!”

“You are too kind to tell me, but I understand.”

“No you don’t.  God this is so hard for you and I’m trying to not get frustrated but… I don’t know what to do Midge, I don’t.  I want to put my foot down and I can’t, I won’t but it would make things easier.  Midge, you can NOT leave me again without telling me, please?  Please?  If you really want to leave, if we talk and you want to leave me I will let you but I will make sure you have someplace to go, money, a plan.  You can’t go running out into L.A., it’s just not safe!  What if someone had found you?  What if you’d been taken?  What if you got hurt?”

“No, no, do not cry my Scott.  Please?  I am so sorry.  I did not mean to upset you.  You are angry and sad.  You should punish me, you will feel better.”

“Trust me, not an option and I wouldn’t feel better.”

“Then you will only make me stay out yesterday?  That is all?”

“What?  You mean the notes.  No, Midge, I wasn’t here!  I was out looking for you all day.  I didn’t see them until an hour before you came home.  I knew you might think that, that’s why I propped the door open.  Midge, I would never lock you out.  I wanted you home SO badly.”

“Oh.  I did not think you would look for me.”

“Of course I did!  Oh you silly, precious boy.  You absolutely have no idea how much I care about you, do you?  You have no fucking frame of reference, you just don’t get it.” He fingered the bracelet on his wrist, turning it around and around.  “Let’s just put it this way.  I’m still wearing mine.”

“I did not want to leave my collar but I knew it was very expensive and I did not want to steal it.”

“It was a gift, one I’d really like you to put back on.”

“Do you mean it?  I do not deserve to,  you should not let me come back.  Even with my tattoo, and being broken, I am worth much.”

“You’re not broken and I want you back more than you know.  I will never, ever sell you Midge, I don’t know why you can’t get that through your head.  Listen to me, and listen carefully.  I want you.  I desire you.  I need you.  I love you so, so much.”

Chapter 50 – Settled

Midge listened but he couldn’t quite believe his ears. “You love me? You should not say such things. I am sorry, you may say whatever you like. But how can you need me? Or love me? I am Neko.”

“I just do. I wouldn’t have given you the bracelet if I didn’t. I know you don’t feel the same and that’s okay but you need to know how I feel. And somehow it just doesn’t matter that you have a tail, it’s not a game-changer for me. ‘Things you never thought you’d say for 400, Alex’.”

“Ha. I have seen a lot of Jeopardy. You are funny. But are you sure you desire me? I pleased you?” he asked, still unsure.

“Were you IN that bed with me last night? God Midge, you more than pleased me. But I’m still worried, I’m afraid you wouldn’t tell me if there was something wrong. I can’t read your mind and I… did I please you?”

“Me?”

“Yes, YOU. I wanted it to be better, no, make that wonderful. I wanted you to enjoy it.”

Midge couldn’t believe that Scott could possibly care enough to ask him yet again. “I did. It was. It was amazing, I did not know it could be like that. I thank you for showing me. I did not know…” he blushed and turned away.

“What? Tell me.” he asked, smirking.

“I have never, finished, during. I mean, while… Do you know what I mean? I was a little bit afraid” he giggled “but it felt SO good. Maybe it is my new favorite thing.”

“Ahhh, yeah” he answered, grinning. “I know what you mean. You were so, so beautiful and DAMN boy. Grrrr”

“I enjoyed the kisses, you are sweet to me.”

“Mmmhmmm. I try. And I must say I enjoy trying very, very much.” He reached up and brushed Midge’s hair off his forehead. “So, can we finally talk about the apartment? Will you let me explain instead of assuming the worst?”

“Yes. I am sorry.”

“I know. Look, everyone needs their own space sometimes. Everyone needs privacy, and a place to put their things, and a place that is theirs. I love sharing my bed with you but I want you to have your own, so that you never have to be with me unless you WANT to be. I want you to decorate it how you want, and have your own closet, and be able to shut the door if I start to bug you. Have you ever had your own room before?”

“No. I do not want to make you move, it is not right. I do not need those things.”

“You don’t think you need it because you think too little of yourself. I don’t mind moving. It would be good to be closer to Avi and Kevin, and the studio. I’d love a balcony, too. I think it will help you grow, and become your own person, Neko, whatever. It will be good for you and it’ll be good for us. I still want to be with you, I just want us to be more equal. This is my apartment but the next one will be ours.”

“If it is what you want, it is fine with me” he said, trying to believe the words that had come out of Scott’s mouth. No one had ever talked to him like that, no one had ever told him a human COULD talk to a Neko like that.

“See, now was that so hard? Why didn’t you just ask me to explain earlier? Why not tell me you were upset, or angry?”

“I was not angry, only sad. I was scared Scott, I am sorry.”

“I’m sorry I upset you, I really am. But don’t you see that you can’t run FROM me when you’re scared? You need to run TO me, little one. Let me help.”

“I should not have run, I will not do it again. Am I forgiven?”

“Only if you come over here and repay me with a hug.”

Midge catapulted himself forward because he’d been waiting for the chance all day. He curled almost entirely ON Scott’s lap, his arms wrapped around his neck and his tail twisting around his waist.

“So much better” Scott murmured, finally relaxing after the stress of yesterday and the morning. “Now, want to take a nap?”

“I would like to, but more if it is with you.”

“Oh I’m coming too, I don’t think I slept 4 hours and that is not quite enough for me to be human.”

Midge turned his head up, wondering what his silly human was talkiing about. “Now you are? A beast? A sleep vampire? Tired as a dog?”

Scott chuckled. “You’re fucking with me, you made a joke, and that makes me incredibly happy. And I am tired as a dog but I’m afraid you’d hide in the bathroom if I admit it.”

“No, you do not SMELL like a dog and that is all that matters” he said in all seriousness.

“You’re cute. I’m glad I don’t, although after walking the streets yesterday I smell like everything else. You, however” he said, leaning down and nuzzling Midge’s hair, “smell very good. I can’t describe it, but you always smell like this and it’s just… you. If you could bottle this we’d be millionaires. ‘Eau de Midge’ would be the must-have scent of the year.”

“We could have fun and a shower and THEN nap, if you’d like.”

“Oh, I like, but the shower has to come first, at least for me. Want to come in with me? We can save water.”

“I would not prefer… I mean if it is to get clean I am happy to come but for fun, it is not my favorite place. I do not like the water so much.”

“We’ll just get clean, it’ll be quick, I promise. I don’t want to let you go any longer than I have to.” He stood and took Midge’s hand, leading him towards the bathroom.

***** Do you want a Chapter 50 and a half? Making up can be fun :)

Okay, okay, stupid question LOL. Drinks are up!

Chapter 51 – Coffee

**** This is the longest book… seriously. I should split it but that seems like work, so we’ll just continue on if everyone is okay with that?

(It ended up being over 100 chapters.  Oops??)

Scott HATED the sound of his alarm right now but he had practice so he’d been a good boy and set it before drifting off to sleep for their much-needed nap.

“We need to get up now?” Midge asked, his voice still groggy from sleep.

“I do but you don’t. I’ll be back in a few hours. You’ll be here, right? Midge? Promise?”

“Of course. I told you I will not leave again and I will not.”

Scott took a deep breath, kissed him on the cheek, and climbed out of the warm bed. “This sucks, I wanna stay in bed with you.”

“Will it be easier if I make you coffee?”

He leaned down to pull his pants on. “You are too good to me. Yes it would probably help but you should… never mind, you’re up already. Thanks Midge.” He grabbed a shirt and followed him into the kitchen. “Hey, you never drink coffee, do you? Don’t you like it?”

“I have never tried it.”

Scott was awake now, he couldn’t imagine living without coffee. “WHAT? You have to try it, it’s…. you just have to. This is okay, but I’ll bring you home Starbucks and you can try the good stuff!”

“Alright, I like to try new things. It has a strong smell, but I like the taste when you kiss me.”

Scott blew out his breath. “Yeah. Kisses. Bed. You. Yummy. Um, I need to stop. Okay, uh, my third grade teacher. Um, my sister naked, although for a girl she’s really pretty, but still ICK.”

“You are a weird man.”

“Yes, yes I am. But at least I can walk. I have to run love, I’ll be back about 2:30, alright? Call me…..”

“If I need you. Yes I will Scott. Thank you. Is there anything you would like me to do while you are gone?”

“Nope, just have fun and don’t leave, okay?” He kissed his cheek and ran out the door, forgetting to take his coffee.

Midge went to make himself a glass of milk but saw the coffee on the counter. He took a little sip and decided it definitely needed more cream, so he added a good sized pour and tried again.
Better. He grabbed one of his new books and curled up on the couch to sip his coffee and read.

He was halfway through his book when he ran out of coffee and decided that he’d definitely like another cup while he finished. It was warm, and milky, and he didn’t mind it at all. The taste reminded him of Scott and he set the Keurig to make him another cup. Soon he was curled back up, sipping and reading. He realized that he’d drunk Scott’s so he hopped up and made him another cup, just in case he wanted it. But no, he was bringing home some Starbucks, so Midge went ahead and drank that cup too.

---

Scott was doing a brain dump on Kelly after rehearsal and she was handling it fairly well. They were standing in Starbucks waiting for their order when Scott finally mentioned how good Midge’s artwork was and that he should sell it.

    "What about Lisa?  The Lisa that did the jewelry for Radioactive?  She does amazing jewelry and sells her stuff online on etsy; I bet she could help Midge get all set up and teach him how it works."

“I hadn’t even thought of that. Yeah, I’ll give her a call and see if she can help him out. Thank you!”

    "What can I say?  I'm brilliant.  Speaking of brilliant, are you sure that giving him caffeine is a good idea?"

“It’s just one cup Kellbell, I don’t see how it could bother him much.” He grabbed the cups when his name was called and headed home.

Midge met him at the door and took the cups from his hand. “Is one of these for me?”

“Yep, the one that doesn’t say ‘Scott’. What did you do today?”

“I read! I read a lot. Well, not a lot but more than I usually do! I read one of my new books. It is a mystery about a lost diamond and you get to pick the ending. You read a few pages and then it asks you what you want to do!” He took a breath and a sip of his new drink, all while bouncing on the balls of his feet. “Oh wow this is amazing. Really amazing. Even better than our coffee, you are right. Really good. I love this. Did you have a nice day? I had a nice day. I did some laundry, is that okay? I wanted to wash my things. I washed the towels too, I hope that is okay. This is really good!”

“Midge?!!?” he interrupted, grinning. “What? is? wrong? with? you?”

“Me? I am fine. Never felt better, really. Nope. All good. Is that how you say it? I was thinking that I want to see all the Disney movies of all the rides we went on. Can we do that? I have never seen Alice in Wonderland or Dumbo. Are they scary? Alice has a pretty dress. And I want to meet the crazy rabbit. Is he nice? It is Disney, it must be nice, right?”

“Midge?”

“But not Lion King, I saw that one a long time ago and it was really sad. So I guess Disney can be sad, right? But are those? I do not want to watch anything sad. Can you see if there are Disney movies on the TV?” He pranced over and perched on the back of the sofa.

“Please don’t fall. You are… wait, this is better than our coffee? Did you drink mine?”

“I did. It was really good.”

Scott started giggling and once Midge joined in he couldn’t stop. “Oh god, how many? Did you just have one? This is you on one and a half cups of coffee?”

“Oh no, I had more. I made one for me and one for you but you did not need it because you were going to buy some and I did not want to waste it so I had it and it was really good but not nearly as good as this one” he said, draining the rest of his cup.

“You are literally HIGH on caffeine! Oh shit, oh shit that’s funny! Do you feel okay?”

“I feel amazing although my tummy is not so good. It feels weird but not like I will throw up it is more nervous and like I ate a bug. Can bugs really live in your stomach? My mom used to say that if I did not slow down and chew my food that it would come back to life in my stomach and I used to lay in bed and wonder what would happen if I had a chicken inside me. I got really scared and I told her and she laughed at me and said she was just being silly and making a joke but I believed her. It would be a really floppy chicken though because I do not eat the bones so would it even look like a chicken or would it just be a funny lump without feathers?”

Scott brought over a bag of pretzels and sat on the couch. “Sit down here with me and eat a little something. You’ve gotta feed those bugs.”

“I do not have bugs.”

“I know, silly boy.”

He hopped up and grabbed Marley, then sprinted back to the living room and jumped over the back of the couch, landing next to Scott.

“PLEASE! You scared the shit out of me Midge. Would you SIT down!??? What have I done? Oh, hold on, I need you to say hi to Kelly. She is going to literally lose it.” He grabbed his phone and called her on skype, quickly explaining that Midge had had at least 3, or maybe 4 cups of coffee. He didn’t quite finish though, because Midge tore the phone out of his hand.

“Hi Miss Kelly! Hi! I can see you! Can you see me? Is this on? Where are you? Can you hear me? I can not hear you! How does this work? Kelly?  She is not there Scott. I can see her but… oh wait, I can hear you. Are you laughing? What is so funny? Aaaaaaaaaaaaaah DOG!” He dropped the phone and tunneled behind Scott, practically throwing him to the ground.

    Kelly wiped her eyes. "I warned you, didn't I?  Hmm? Hmm?  What do you say Dipdot?"

“You were right” Scott said, then sighed. “I don’t know what to do with him.”

    "Oh just enjoy it, it'll wear off soon enough.  Thanks for letting me experience that though, especially from the safety of my own house."

“I’ll talk to you later Kit Kat.”

    "Have fun!  Byeeeeee"

“Fun?” Midge popped his head out. “Did she say fun?”

And this is how I die. Not a bad way to go. “Movie, Midge, MOVIE! Sit, please.”

***** And, just want to throw yet another shot out to Gesges who drew the insanely awesome new cover. Isn’t it fab??!! I literally put my hand over my mouth to keep from shouting when I first opened her link. SO fantastic!!

Chapter 52 – Dancing

Midge couldn’t sit still more than eight minutes.  Scott had dared him to try for five minutes and he made it, but by the eighth he gave up and stood behind the couch, Marley in his arms.  “This movie is no fun.  Can I change the channels?”

“Sure, whatever floats your boat.”  He handed it over and grabbed his phone, sending a text to Lisa and setting up a tutoring lesson.

Midge went through all 212 channels once.  Then again.  On the third time through he found the ice skating and stopped, mouth gaping open.  “She is beautiful!”

Scott looked up briefly and nodded.  “Yep.”  Then he was back to his phone.

Midge sat Marley down next to Scott and leaped to the back of the couch, leg outstretched, as she glided across the ice.  Then he jumped down, rotating on the way.

“I’m SO going to record this” Scott said, turning around on the couch to get a better view.  He watched as Midge twirled and leaped from one end of the living room to the other, then did a spin on top of the coffee table as the skater finished her program.

“Will there be more?”

“I think so, we’ll have to wait a minute and see.”  He was half hoping there would be a million more because Midge was enjoying it so thoroughly but he wasn’t sure the furniture, or the apartment would take too much more.

“I wish I could do it for real” Midge said, his eyes fixated on the screen.

“I’m sure we can make that happen a little closer to the holidays, but it’s not as easy as they make it look.  I fell about 39 times the last time i went and almost ran over Kelly once.  Speaking of which, I always go home for Christmas, do you want to come?”

“To your home?  With your family?”

“Yep.  Wanna meet the rest of the clan?  It’s a while out yet, we have Thanksgiving first but I can’t go home this year.  Damn, we’d have to drive.  Shit.  Oh well, we’ll make it work, somehow, if you want to come.”

Midge finally sat down, weighed down by his words.  “You would like me to meet your family?”

“Yes.  Absolutely.”  He took his hand, knowing this was hard for him to accept.  “You’re a huge part of my life and they will love you.”

“I would like to meet them, if it is possible.  But I understand you would fly, so I can stay here, it is not a problem.”

“Midge, I’m not leaving you alone while I go.  That’s not happening.  What do you like to do for Christmas, Thanksgiving?  Any traditions?”

“No.”

“From when you were a kid?  I don’t know anything about you.  Where are you from?  Where were you born?”

“Texas.”

“Texas?  Are you kidding me?”

“No, I am not.”

“That’s where I’m from!  How did you end up in Los Angeles?” he asked, surprised.

“I rode in a car” he answered. He thought Scott understood that he could not fly.

“Funny.  You are such a dork.  So your family is still down there?  Your mother?”

“I do not know but it is possible.”

“We should see them, do you want to visit?  Where in Texas are you from?”

“You are silly, and have had too much coffee I think.”

“ME?”  Scott shook in laughter, then pulled Midge close.  “You, my little skater, are full of surprises.  Why didn’t you tell me you were from Texas?  I want to know everything.”

Midge was staring at the television, the program having switched to the male skaters.  “You did not ask.  They do not skate as pretty as the girls, and their outfits are boring, but it is still amazing.  Can I really try it?”

“We’ll add it to the list of ‘everything in the world I need to show Midge’.  For now though, have you ever danced?”

“Danced?”

Scott stood and held out his hand.

“Like in the movies?”

“Mmmhmm but I’m not going to wear a dress” he joked.

“I would, they are beautiful.  I like when they twirl.  So sparkly and bright.  Clothes are amazing.”

“Going to become a little fashionista, are you?”  Scott dropped his hand and picked up the blanket, tying it around Midge’s waist.  “I don’t know how much it will twirl, but there you go.”

Midge grinned and stepped forward into Scott’s arms.

Scott stepped to the side and was immediately stepped onto by an overzealous Midge.  “Follow Midge, follow.”

“Where are we going?”

“Just move with me” he said, as another foot landed on his.

It took a few tries for Midge to figure out the rhythm but soon he was swaying in Scott’s arms to the skater’s music.  “This is nice.”

“It is, when you’re not stepping on me or banging into my knees.  I’m kidding, you’re doing much better.  I’m glad you like it.”

“It feels right to me.”

“How Midge?”

“I can relax, not worry about what is happening.  Thank you Scott.”

He stepped back, holding his hands.  “Now, how about some dinner?  There’s a new place not far from here, I’ve heard it’s fantastic.”

Midge’s eyes lit up.  “Can we dance there?”

“I don’t think it’s quite that fancy honey, but we can get dessert.”

“And coffee?”

“No, absolutely NO coffee for you little one.  You are cut off until tomorrow” he chuckled.

Chapter 53 – Steven

Steven swore to himself as yet another cart of pots and dishes made it back to his washing station. There was no way he was ever going to get caught up by the time his shift ended at 9 which meant yet another write-up. He wouldn’t care too much but he’d only been here a week and had been lucky to get anything after being let go from Marco’s. It wasn’t his fault though, it was all because that stupid damn cat had run away.

He’d had plans, big plans for that Midge. It had take a little while but he’d found a buyer who was willing to pay good money for the cat. More money than Steven had ever seen and more than enough to let him never wash another damn dish in his life. He’d held him off an extra week though, and he’d paid dearly. All the fun he’d had with the little pussy cat hadn’t been worth the money he’d lost.

He’d looked EVERYWHERE for him. Day and night, for over a week. He’d lost his cushy job from missing so much time and it was all Midge’s fault. He still couldn’t believe he’d escaped, he could have sworn he had chained him the same way he always did, the door locked to the bedroom and the alarm on the front door. He had been so exhausted that day though, having enjoyed him several times that night that he must have missed something, somehow.

When yet another cart was pushed over he threw down his towel and stomped towards the back door, wishing he could keep walking instead of coming back after his well-deserved smoke break. One of the waiters was coming in as he left, so he held the door and looked out towards the fancy dining room.
Spoiled fuckers, cook your own damn food.

He turned to leave but glanced back, something he had seen niggling at his conscience. And then, when the tall man tilted his head he saw him.
MIDGE! Oh, this was perfect. He’d spent hours searching all over the city and instead, that cat had walked right into his restaurant. How lucky could he get? He ducked back inside the kitchen for a minute to come up with a plan.

At their table, Scott pushed his plate to the side, thoroughly stuffed and happy. “So, think you’re going to want some dessert when you finally finish?”

“I am sorry I am so slow. You can have them take it if you like.”

“No, no, I’ll wait. You’re not really slow, it’s the three bathroom breaks that are cutting into your progress. Don’t worry about it.”

“I do not know why I have to use the bathroom so much, it is not like me.”

“It’s the coffee. How many cups DID you have anyway? Three?”

“Four, I think. I may have forgotten one but it is at least four I think.”

Scott just leaned back in his chair and smiled. “That’ll do it. I don’t mind waiting, enjoy it. It was good.”

“It is delicious.” He stabbed another scallop with his fork, using it to mop up as much sauce as he could balance.

When the waiter came by for Scott’s plate he asked for a dessert menu and spent a few minutes looking it over while Midge finished. “They have oreo cheesecake. Tell me you like cheesecake.”

“A cake made of cheese? It sounds wonderful, but not something humans would eat. I’m happy to try it.”

“It’s not…. well it is cheese but it’s not like cheddar.” He ordered a piece for them to share.

“I am sorry, but may I use the restroom one more time while we wait for the cheesecake?”

“Of course.”

Midge stood and made his way down the hallway. He went inside and into one of the stalls. When the door opened a moment later he didn’t pay it any mind until he heard a voice he had hoped to never hear again.

“Hello there, Midge” Steven said, smirking as he leaned against the door. “Miss me?”

Chapter 54 – Fight

*** Violence warning

Midge panicked, jumping up on top of the toilet seat.

“I know you’re in here, pussy cat.  Come out here, we’re going home” Steven heckled.

“I do not want to go with you.  I can not.”

“Oh, yes you can.  And you will.”  Steven tugged at the stall door but it was built to open in and didn’t budge.  Instead he pushed but it didn’t give.  “Come out here Midge, NOW!”

Midge froze.  He didn’t have to listen to Steven.  He was Scott’s, and Scott would not want him to go with him.  “My owner forbids it.”

“ I am your owner you ungrateful little shit.  Get OUT HERE!“ He hissed, rattling the door.

“You are not.  I will not come with you” he answered, hoping that he sounded more brave than he felt.

“Fine, we’ll do it the hard way.”  Steven got down on the floor and climbed under the door, grinning.

Midge watched, terrified.  He could not attack a human except in defense, it was not allowed.  But he could not leave with him, either.  It was also not allowed.  He opened his mouth to scream but no sound came out and a moment later Steven’s nasty hand was clamped over his mouth, another beefy arm wrapped around his chest.

Steven unlocked the door and carried Midge out of the stall.  “Be quiet and be good and I won’t hurt you.  Got it?”

---

Scott stared down at the oreo cheesecake, complete with chocolate drizzle and two spoons. Where the heck is Midge ?  He looked around, making sure he hadn’t gotten lost coming back to the table. I’ll give him two more minutes before I turn into one of those crazy, clingy boyfriends.  He didn’t leave, he wouldn’t leave.  He promised.

He fidgeted, worried, then looked around the room at the artwork while he counted the seconds.

---

When Midge saw the back door approaching, he knew that he was out of time and options. He had only one chance to do what he thought his master would want and he made a split second decision. He brought his tail up as hard as he could, smacking Steven in the face.  When the hand covering his mouth shifted, he bit down and screamed as loudly as he could.  “HELP!!”

Scott knew that voice and jumped up, his chair falling to the floor.  He ran towards the restrooms just in time to see the back door close.  He paused just a moment next to the men’s room door before running down the hall and throwing the door open.   A man was dragging Midge towards a car while he struggled.  “Midge!”

Steven was trying to get the little imp into his car which he had moved to the door during his last ‘smoke break.’  If he could just get him in and both of them out of here, they would be golden.  The stupid brat wasn’t cooperating though; he hadn’t planned on Midge resisting.  When his arm was grabbed by the stupid pussy’s golden body guard, he threw Midge towards the car and swung, landing a solid punch on that preppy jaw.

Midge landed on his feet and saw red.  He hit my Scott!  He didn’t even think, simply jumped between the two men and kneed Steven in the crotch.  When he buckled down, folding at the waist, he drew back and punched him in the nose.

“Midge, stop!” Scott begged, pulling at him.  “Get out of here!”

He couldn’t stop though, not while Steven could still hurt Scott.  He hit him again, then brought his leg up and kicked straight out, making contact with his fleshy stomach.

Steven stumbled back, trying to throw his hands up to protect himself.  He fell to his knees and looked up just in time to see a black sole aiming straight for his face.

Midge felt the impact all the way to his spine and watched as Steven’s head jerked to the side, bones and cartilege crunching beneath his foot.  He cringed at the blood, felt his stomach revolt.

Scott wrapped his arms around Midge’s shoulders, yanking him backwards.  “STOP!  Midge, please, it’s okay.  Stop.”

“You are safe?” he asked, his voice eerily calm.

“Yes, we’re fine.  But we need to get out of here.”  He took Midge’s hand in his and walked him around the side of the building and through the front entrance.

“Why are we going back?”

“I didn’t pay.  It’ll just take a second.”  It took the hostess a bit of time to figure out which check was their’s but soon they were walking out with their cheesecake wrapped to-go.  “Time to go home.”

“Thank you.”

“Midge, are you alright?  Did he hurt you?”

“I am fine.  Are you alright Sir-Scott?”

“You’re with me, I’m perfect.  But honey, what happened back there?  I thought you were going to kill him.”

“I would have.  He hurt you.”

“Remind me to never, never get on your bad side.”  He parked the car and walked around to open Midge’s door when he didn’t get out.  “Coming?”

Midge didn’t answer, just followed Scott up the stairs and curled up on the couch, shivering.

---

Steven lay in the parking lot for several minutes until one of the waiters came out for a break.  “Hey Matt….”

        “Holy shit dude, what happened?”

“Got mugged, a customer.  Tall blonde guy, table 17.  Find out if he paid cash or credit?  I need an address”  he said, holding his apron up to his face to try to stop the bleeding.

        “Of course.  I’ll send Uchenna out, she’s an EMT and can take a look at you or call an ambulance, whatever.”

“Thanks man.”

Chapter 55 – Cheesecake

Scott sat down on the couch next to Midge and opened his arms, inviting him in. He was shocked when Midge didn’t move, he couldn’t remember him ever turning down a hug or a snuggle. “Honey?”

“Yes?” His eyes lifted to look at Scott but he didn’t move. “Do you want me to come to you?”

“Only if you want to. But yeah, I do. Do you need some ice for your hand?”

“No, it will be fine.” He unclenched it and looked and although it was swollen, he hadn’t broken the skin. Then he scooted over and into Scott’s arms. The familiar warmth overtook him. Scott’s smell. Scott’s arms weighted around his shoulders. Scott’s heartbeat. These things were good, were safe, were right. He tried to think of his face to replace that of Steven’s in his head.

“What do you need? What can I do?” Scott asked, worried. “Do you want to tell me what happened? Do you want to talk? I’m so sorry I didn’t come for you earlier. I worried, I thought it was taking you too long but I didn’t want to be too…. I don’t know. I should have come sooner. I’m sorry, I know he probably scared you. Hell, he scared me. But you were amazing, I mean, you kicked his ass!”

“I do not want to talk. I want to forget. Can you help me forget?”

“Oh little one, I’m so sorry. What would you like to do? Hey, do you want to try the cheesecake?” he asked, hopeful.

“You are a strange man. Sure. I will try this cheesecake.” He watched Scott walk into the kitchen and tried to focus. Scott didn’t seem mad, of course he almost never did. “Scott?”

“Yes?” He walked over with the cheesecake on a plate and held two forks in his hand. “For you” he said, handing over a fork.

“I did things tonight I should not have done. I am sorry.”

“You mean roundhouse kicking him in the face?” he asked, taking a bite. “Oh my GOD this is good!” He put another bite on his fork and held it out to Midge.

“No, I smacked him and bit his hand before he attacked you.” At Scott’s insistence he opened his mouth and licked the cheesecake off the fork. “Ooh it is…. creamy” he said, licking his lips and looking down at the plate. “May I have another taste?”

“Of course. Help yourself. You should have done anything and everything you needed to do to stay safe, Midge. Why shouldn’t you have smacked him? I’m missing something here.” He took another bite while he waited for the answer.

“I may only strike in defense.”

“And how weren’t you? He was fucking dragging you to his car.”

“Defense of you, not me” he answered, still amazed that his human knew NONE of the rules.

“That’s stupid. You’d better defend yourself; apparently I’m too stupid to realize when you need help. Whoever made up that rule was a bastard.” He waved his fork in the air. “By the power invested in me by this fork, I now pronounce that you may protect yourself against any asshole who threatens you in any way, shape or form.” He brought the fork down and broke off a bite of cheesecake, then shoved it in his mouth. “Good enough?”

Midge didn’t know whether to laugh, cry, try to explain, or give up and eat another bite of cheesecake before Scott finished it all. “You are very good, Scott. And I understand your meaning, so I thank you.” He watched Scott grab yet another bite and reached out and took the plate from him, eyes twinkling.

“Oh, so you like it, do you? All yours, enjoy. I can’t believe you took it out of my hand.”

“Oh my… shit I am so sorry!” He thrust it back towards Scott but he had put his hands up in the air and was shaking his head ‘no’.

“I’m proud of you. That made me very happy. Now eat your dessert, okay?”

“If you are sure?” he asked, balancing the plate on his lap and taking another small bite.

Scott watched, amused. Midge put the fork in his mouth to eat the piece, but then put it back in to lick off the remaining bits that stuck. It was adorable.

“Is it okay if I get a shower now?” Midge asked, standing to put the plate in the kitchen.

“Random, but yes, of course.”

“I can smell him and I do not want to. I will wash and try to forget.”

“Want some help? I’m happy to help you shower and even more happy to distract you for awhile.”

“It is about time you caught on to my request, I thought you did not want to have fun with me. Yes please.” He stripped on the way to the bathroom and looked back over his shoulder, grinning to himself when he saw the look in Scott’s eyes.

Chapter 56 – Switch

***** Very PG-13.  Think twice before reading this at work, at school, or anywhere you don’t want people to wonder why you’re blushing :)  OH, and enjoy. 

It’s short, but I started to write this all as a hidden chapter and decided that it was important for the story.  So, here’s the concept, so people know what’s going on and how close they’re getting, how much Midge has moved forward and where he’s still unsure.

There will be a 56 and a half :)

Scott staggered out of the bathroom, a wet and naked Midge wrapped around his waist and neck.  They had probably just taken the quickest shower in the history of manki… well… ever.  He gripped Midge’s ass tighter when he started nibbling on his neck instead of just kissing it.   He stumbled through the doorway and fell to the bed with the little minx still wrapped around him.

Midge didn’t want to let him go, didn’t want anything but to feel his skin, his breath, his heartbeat.  He clung on as he was rolled over and on top of Scott.  His hands fisted Scotts hair, knees pressing in against his waist.  Only his head moved, his lips finally moving so he could kiss the amazing man who claimed him.

Scott’s hands ran up and down, grasping and memorizing every line, every muscle, every inch.  “What do you want?  Tell me” he finally managed to murmur during a quick breath.

“I want whatever you want.  I just want you” Midge answered, then kissed his way down his chest.

“I want lots of things.  I want you pressed against the window so the whole damn city can see, to make your eyes wild and your voice raw.  But even more than that, I want to be fucked.”

“WHAT?!”  Midge sat back, his eyes darting left and right.  “What do you mean?  You mean… I am sorry, I misunderstood.”

“No, no you didn’t” Scott answered, pulling him close again.  “You never have, have you?”

“Never have?  I do not know what you mean.”

“Yes you do.  Please?”

“I can not.  I can not….”  He took a few shallow breaths, Scott’s eyes watching him the entire time.  “Please be clear, I am confused.”

“I want you.  With me so far?” he asked, a mischevious grin on his face.  “I want you to make love to me.  Got it?  Is that clear?”

“But WHY?” Midge asked, anxious.

“Because I enjoy it.  Because I want to give myself to you.  Because I just feel like it.  Because you’re beautiful and amazing and I want to make you feel good.   Just because” he answered, leaving a kiss on Midge’s cheek or neck with each phrase.

“I should do whatever you want––” he said, but was interrupted.

“No, you should do whatever WE want.  You AND me, little one.  If you don’t want to, I’m more than happy to throw you over the couch.”

“I would like that very much.  But you are a man”  he sucked in his breath when his shaft was enclosed in Scott’s hand.  “But if you want… I am not sure.”

“Why don’t you think about it?  Get used to the idea.  I can wait.  I’m sure I can find something else to amuse myself with tonight.”

“You confuse me, Scott”

“Well that definitely wasn’t the plan.  Let’s see if we can find something more fun to do….”

Chapter 57 – Ideas

Scott opened his eyes just enough to see that Midge was already up and out of bed. He took the opportunity to stretch out his long arms and legs, then curled back up and replayed last night in his head. So, so good. He was still surprised that Midge had done it and he knew he’d have to make sure he wasn’t worried about anything, but it felt like a huge step forward.

He couldn’t fathom experiencing everything Midge had the past month. He’d handled everything that was thrown at him with amazing grace and a joyful spirit that Scott couldn’t help but feed off of. He needed to talk to Zac and find out if he’d talked to his uncle. He also needed to find out who this Steven guy was and make sure he couldn’t hurt Midge again. All of that would wait until he’d said good morning though.

He finally crawled out of bed and headed to the bathroom, then wandered out to find Midge. “Morning” he said, wrapping his arms around him from behind. “What are you making?”

“Pancakes. Good morning Scott. How are you?”

“Wonderful. I’m flipping fantastic. How are YOU?” he asked, leaning down to kiss his neck.

“Good, I am glad. I am perfect. Except I need to reach the fridge and I can not move.”

“Fine fine” he grumbled, reluctantly releasing him and moving back to lean against the other counter. “How do you always make breakfast right when I wake up? It’s like you’re psychic.”

“I can hear you, my silly Scott.” he quipped, grabbing the milk. “And sometimes your stomach wakes up even before you do.”

“I can’t argue with that. Can I help?”

“May I have coffee? If not, please make only yourself a cup.”

“Two cups of coffee it is.” He grabbed two mugs and started up the machine. “So, I have rehearsal but afterwards I’m going to look at an apartment. Would you like to come?”

“If you would like.”

“I would really like you to, but not if it’ll bother you, or make you uncomfortable. I know you’re still a little unsure about moving. I can take a look and if it’s great, I could bring you back.”

“I would be happy to come if you wish. Would you like me to attend rehearsal as well or will you pick me up afterwards?”

“100% up to you, but I will warn you that they may push you to sing, or bug you about joining the group.”

Midge’s eye’s finally turned away from the pan and he stared, spatula in hand. “They want me to join your group?”

“Absolutely.”

“That is so kind, even though it is impossible.” He flipped the first pancake, grinning when it landed perfectly.

“I’m not sure it’s impossible Midge, especially since Kelly worked magic with your ears.” He brought his hand up and rubbed the edge of one, giggling when it twitched. “I like seeing them though, I must admit. But seriously though, as much as you’ve been listening to me sing my parts, you probably know half the songs already. You should come today; I’d rather not leave you alone after the whole ‘Steven thing’ anyway.” He took the plate Midge handed him and sat down at the counter.

Midge pulled his plate out of the warm oven and sat down with him, leaning his head against Scott’s shoulder. “You are sure you are okay? With everything? With last night?” he asked sheepishly.

He twisted his head as much as he could and planted a kiss on Midge’s head. “I literally could not be happier. Thank you, I know it was… I don’t know, new I guess, for you. So, did you enjoy yourself as much as I did?”

“I… um, I think…… yes. Absolutely. It was amazing. You are amazing. You are right, it was a lot of ‘more’.” He finally picked up his fork and took a bite of his pancake. “I make very good pancakes.”

Scott’s mouth was full so he just mumbled a ‘Mmmhmm’ and squeezed Midge’s thigh gently. Guess he’s done worrying about it.

Chapter 58 – Three?

Midge was leaning against Scott’s chest but he still didn’t feel quite…. calm.   He loved the attention, although it was a totally new sensation for him.  “I.. I do not know if it is possible.  I am very grateful for your offer, but I…”  He turned his head and looked up at Scott for back-up.

“Let us talk about it, and he’ll let you know, okay guys?” Scott said, trying to put an end to the conversation for the day.  He couldn’t blame the guys, Avi and Kevin both completely understood what they had here, and how amazing Midge was.  Not only was his voice perfection, but he complemented the four of them effortlessly.  It had only been 2 hours but it felt as if they’d been singing together for years.  He’d worried for about the first 26 seconds that it was just him, because of the amazing connection they had, but one look at Kevin’s face had answered that question.

“Mitch, I mean Midge.  Sorry, I still think it’s a weird name.  Please?  Why not do the weekend shows with us as a trial run?  If you hate it, or us, fine…. but I think you’ll love it” Kevin asked.

“I am sorry Kevin, it is not so simple.  There are… things.” Midge answered.

Scott cleared his throat and tried to wipe the grin from his face.  “Yep.  Things.  Three of them.”

“Three?” Kelly  asked.  “Are you being a pervert again?”

“NO!  I mean, I’m counting the top two separately.”  Scott answered. “You always think the worst of me!”

Avi opened his mouth and then shut it again, then blinked slowly.  “Okay, I give.  Three what?”

Midge shifted from one foot to the other, silently begging Scott and Kelly to not say anything.

“Up to Midge.”  Scott tilted his head down and said into his ear “What do you think?  Maybe you should tell them.”

“It is up to you” he replied nervously.

“I think you should, but it’s up to you.  It’s your secret.”

“I do not know how, it always goes badly.  Will you tell them?” Midge asked, his voice shaky.

“Okay guys, sit down.  Kat, sit with the cat?” he joked.  He stood in the middle of the room, in front of the couch Avi and Kevin were waiting impatiently on.  “Okay, Midge isn’t human.  He’s Neko, and it’s sort of a cat/human mix.  He’s mostly human, obviously but he has cat ears and a tail.”

“Three things” Kevin said, eyes wide.

“Scott, WHAT are you ON?” Avi asked, standing up.

“Sit down Avi, don’t freak him out.  I’m not kidding” Scott answered, blocking his path.

“I’m not going to, what?  I’m just going to go, alright?  Kev, call me when they’re gone.  You guys don’t pay me enough for this shit.  Seriously.”  He was frustrated, but not angry.  Sometimes those two go WAY too far.  The diva duo will be the death of me. 

“Avi?” Midge called.

He turned and looked back.  He saw one ear twitch, and watched as Kelly unhooked the other.  “Kev?”

“I don’t know man, I don’t know.” he answered, staring.

“Can you take your tail out?” Scott asked.

“Mmhmm, one moment.”  He lifted his shirt a bit and his tail shot out and up over his shoulder.  He flicked the tip to wave at Avi.  “I am Midge and I am Neko.  I do not mind if you call me Mitch, it is a nice name.  I hope I am not a problem for you.  Please do not tell anyone else, either of you.  It is very important.”

“Dead serious about it guys.  Some guy tried to steal him from the restaurant we had dinner in a few nights ago.  It’s not safe for people to know about him, alright?  I trust you guys to tell no one.” Scott said, his voice authoritative.

Kevin mimed zipping his lips, then laughed.  “This is amazing!”

“So now you understand why I may not accept your offer.  I would love to but it is impossible.” Midge said.  “I hope you are not mad, I did not mean to deceive you.”

“But we had no idea” Avi said, still staring at Midge.  “How would anyone else know?  Not that I believe you.  At least I don’t think so.”

“You make a good point bro” Kevin replied.  “A very good point.”

“So dragons are real but he’s not?  Come on Avi, he’s right in front of you.” Scott answered, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t start with me Scott, you just told me your new friend is a half-cat.  Or quarter-cat, whatever.  Give me a few minutes.” Avi quipped.

“Take your time.  We’ve got an apartment to look at in 20 minutes though, so we’ve gotta run.  Talk amongst yourselves.” Scott grabbed his jacket and Midge’s hand and led them towards the door.

“Offer still stands as far as I’m concerned” Kevin said, then laughed when he looked over at Avi’s face.

“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but me too.” Avi answered, his head in his hands.  “Let us know Mit– Midge.”

Chapter 59 – Apartment

“It is empty” Midge said, stepping to the side to let Scott shut the door.

“That’s how they come, dear.  Let’s explore!”  He grabbed Midge’s hand and opened the first door off the living room.  “Bedroom – let’s see how the closet is.”  He ducked over, pulling Midge along behind and opened it up.  “It’s HUGE!!!”

“Who would need this much space?” he asked, walking inside and spinning.

“I would, and I do.  This one is SO mine!”

“That is fine.  I do not need a room anyway and certainly not two” he answered as Scott pulled him towards another door.

“Bathroom, boring.  It looks fine though.  Ooooh, here we go, your room.”  He walked in, then went to the large window.

“This closet is even bigger” Midge said, walking in and going around the bend to reveal another section.

“No fair!”  Scott joined him and wrapped his arm around his shoulder, pulling him into a kiss.

“This is a very nice closet.  I am sure I can find some use for it.” Midge said playfully, pulling at one of the bars to test its strength.  “Yes, I think it will work.”

“You’re testing… I…. damn boy.  It’s not ours yet, we’d better look at the rest of it before she comes back and finds us here.”  He placed one more quick kiss on Midge’s forehead before heading back out into the living room.  “I like it, I really do.   Want to see the balcony?”

“Very much.  It would be nice to go outside and not worry.”

“The railing is nice and high, and it’s big!” Scott announced, spinning in a circle with his hands outstretched.  “No one would even see your tail and there’s room for lounge chairs for daaaaaaaaaaaaaaays.  I may never leave.”

“Your pale will burn.”

“Pfffffffft fine.  You’d do my back, right?” he winked.

“I would.”  He walked over, now that Scott had stopped spinning, and snuggled under his arm.  “Do you like it?”

“I do.  Do you?”

“I will be very comfortable here.  I just… I will miss you.  But I can still sleep with you sometimes, right?”

“Anytime you want Midge, don’t worry.”  He stared out over the balcony at the nearby buildings.  “It feels good, and I like the area.  I also like that it’s away from that Steven jerk, not that I think he’d try anything now.  Hell, he probably still can’t walk, or breathe.”

“You may be right” he said sadly.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you sad.  Let’s go back in and look around again, okay?”

Midge was on the counter, his legs wrapped around Scott’s waist, when he heard footsteps.  “She is coming, Scott.”

“How long?” he murmured, not wanting to end the kiss.

“Now.”

He stepped back and rolled his eyes.  “I could have kissed you for at least 8 more seconds.  So, we want it, right?”

Midge nodded and smiled, then jumped down off the counter and arranged his tail, leaving Scott to open the door and talk to the complex manager.

---

Half an hour later, papers signed, they made their way back into the car.  “Okay little one, we need to talk about Thanksgiving.  I’m going to be gone on Thursday to do two shows, but I’ll be back Friday and we can celebrate then, okay?”

“That is fine.”

“But right now, I have a treat for you.  Sort of a going-away present.”  Scott was so giddy he clapped his hands softly, a huge grin on his face.

“What is it?”  His curiosity was peaked.

“A surprise.”  He pulled his cat-eared hoodie from the back seat and slipped into it, then got on the highway.

“A surprise like DisneyLand?”

“Not that big, but close.  Have you ever been to the zoo?”

“A zoo?  No, I have not.  The animals are in cages, right?”

“They call them habitats to make it sound nicer, but yeah.  Does that bother you?  I’m such a dumbass, I didn’t even think about that.”

“No, no, I just do not want to be eaten.”

Scott laughed so hard tears rolled down his cheeks.  “Oh god Midge, you kill me.  You’ll be safe, I promise.  The zoo’s not the real surprise though, it’s what happens once it’s dark that I think you’ll love even more.”

Midge’s mind started doing gymnastics.  “I like being in the dark with you” he said,  teasing.

“Grrrrr”

“You are a bear?” he asked.

“I’d rather be a lion, Midge, seems like we’d get along better.”

“Ah, you are funny, my Scott.  Yes, you would make a very good lion.”

Chapter 60 – Zoo

Midge was in overload. He’d seen a lot of the animals before on television but actually staring them in the face was a totally different experience. He held onto Scott’s hand so tightly he’d been chastized twice when Scott had pulled his hand away and pretended it was broken. He was pretty sure Scott was mostly joking though since he’d wrapped his arm around Midges shoulder after the second warning.

Scott practically dragged Midge to the Rainforest of the Americas. As they wound their way through the paths, he couldn’t help but notice how interested some of the animals were in Midge. He was used to a lot of them being almost impossible to find, or sleeping. Today, many of them walked right up to the edges of the enclosures. It took him a few minutes to figure out why, but once he did it tickled him. It also made the day of the families walking near them. “Okay Midge, let’s get some dinner while we wait for it to finish getting dark.”

“Are there going to be fireworks?” he asked, looking around the sky.

“Nope, but it’ll be pretty and bright and I think you’ll get a kick out of it.” He let his arm drop and took his hand instead, leading him towards one of the main food courts. “Maybe I should have someone keep an eye on you, or maybe you could stay with someone” he mumbled, weaving his way through the crowd.

“What?” He pulled his hand back, then threw it over his mouth. “I am so sorry. I should not have said that. I just…Why? Because I held your hand too hard? I did not….”

Scott took the few steps necessary to close the gap and put one arm on Midge’s shoulder. “What is it? Wait? What I said? I was just thinking… it’s nothing.” The look on Midge’s face was anything but reassuring but he wasn’t sure at first what was wrong. A moment later it hit him. “I mean while I’m at the shows on Thanksgiving. Not forever. Is that what you thought? I’m just worried about you being alone.”

“Oh.” A blush crept up his cheeks as he raised his head. “I misunderstood. I am sorry.”

“Let’s get some dinner, and we’ll talk about it, okay?”

“Of course.” He followed along with Scott, guilty for making him worry. “I am sorry I am so much trouble.”

“You’re not.” He squeezed his hand gently then glanced over out of the corners of his eyes. “See, no damage done.” Once they went through the line to get their giant hamburgers they found a small table tucked to the side and sat down. “I’m worried about that Steven fucker. Besides, you shouldn’t be alone on Thanksgiving. I wish you could come but we have to fly. I wish you could see New York. How are we going to get you some identification?”

“I know of a guy, but I do not need it. Papers are expensive and I am owned.” He took a big bite of his burger as if he hadn’t just spit out the answers Scott had been looking for.

“Wait, a guy? You can get a license and birth certificate and shit?”

“Of course, but I am not free.”

“YES you ARE! How? How do we do it?” he asked, his words tumbling out.

Midge looked up, his eyes wide. “I did not realize it was important. But there is a man, a politician in Texas, who gives papers for a fee. My mother has them.”

“And that’s why she’s free? Because she’s legal? Ohhhhhhh” he sighed. “So we just buy you papers and then no one can buy or sell you?”

“That is mostly true, it is much harder. With papers come friends who will protect you, try to help.”

“So we can go home at Christmas and make you a real person? That’s amazing.”

“I will still be Neko, Scott. But I will have a card and papers.”

“That’s all you need!” He jumped up and pulled Midge into his arms. “Why didn’t you tell me this in the first damn place?”

“I did not know….. it is not often done. I did not mean to withhold information. But Scott, I can not breathe.”

He finally released his hold a bit and grinned as Midge sat back down and ate his burger as if nothing was going on. “This is SO amazing!”

“Yes, it is a good burger.”

Scott tilted his head back and rolled his eyes. “You’ll never let me lose sight of what’s important, will you? Nevermind, don’t answer that.” He slid into his seat and stuck a cold french fry in his mouth. “It’s dark enough, we can head over the entrance and see the lights whenever you’re ready.”

“I am very ready.”

“Remember you said that when I show you the 20 foot giraffe. And Midge, no matter what, no climbing. Okay?”

“Okay. But Scott, it would be fun.”

“No fun for you until we get home, Mister. We still need to figure out what to do with you on Thanksgiving.”

Chapter 61 – Thanksgiving pt. 1

Midge sat, curled up on Zac’s soft recliner while he and Scott talked at the door.  Scott had told him 9 times that Zac would drive him back home Friday morning around 10 and he had a key to the apartment around his neck. 

Scott had never been so happy that someone wasn’t going home for Thanksgiving. Zac’s family was going to Sebastian’s house so he’d decided to plead a work excuse and stay home.   As hard as it was to leave Midge in someone else’s care, he knew that Zac was absolutely the best choice for every reason he could think of.  When he’d threatened Zac’s life for the 5th time, he finally decided that Midge would be fine and walked over to say yet another good-bye.  “It’s only like…. 35 or 40 hours, something like that” he said, pulling him close.

“Thirty-eight and a half.  I will be fine” he answered, his words muffled in Scott’s shirt.

“And you’ll call me….”

“If I need anything.  Yes.”

“And I will call you and check in whenever I can.  Alright?”

“I hope you have a wonderful time Scott, and enjoy your shows.  Break a leg is what they say in the movies, right?”

“Yep, you got it.  Okay, I gotta run.  It’ll be weird sleeping without you but I have to be up at 3 to catch the flight and Z-man put his foot down about dropping you off at four in the morning.  You have your bag?”

“Yes, and your pillow.”

“Which means yours is still at the apartment, right?” he grinned.  “Works for me.  I’ll call you tomorrow when I get to New York.”  He stepped back, hands still resting on Midge’s shoulders.  “I’ll miss you, but I have to go.”

“I know.  You are bad at leaving.  You should sleep.”

“Alright, alright.”  He headed for the door, then paused.  “Hey, Zac?  Don’t let him drink too much coffee, okay?”

        “I have your fucking 3-page list, Scott.  I got it.  He’s not a child and it’s one freaking day.  It’s all good, really.  Now get out of my house” he quipped, grinning.

Scott rolled his eyes even though he knew Zachary was right.  “Bye Midge and thanks again Zac.  See you two soon.”

        “Okay Midge, let me show you your room and give you a quick tour.  If you need anything at all, please ask.”  He grabbed Midge’s bag and opened the door to the guest room.

Midge walked in, pillow in hand.  “This is very nice.  Thank you so much.”  He sat on the bed and tried to bounce but he just sank into it.  “This bed is odd.  Oh, I mean, I am sorry.  I did not mean to be rude.”

        “No, no, it is.  It’s a memory foam mattress and doesn’t bounce but it’s comfortable as hell.  And Midge, I’m nothing like my uncle, okay?  You can say or do anything you want.  Let me show you where the bathroom is and where the basics are in the kitchen.  Scott says you’re an early riser so feel free to make yourself at home in the morning, okay?”

***  ***  ***  ***

        Zac opened the door of his bedroom the next morning and then quickly shut it again when he remembered he wasn’t alone.  He pulled on a pair of pants and then tried again, not quite believing his nose.  Scott had told him that Midge usually made breakfast but he didn’t expect him to do it at his place.  “That smells amazing.  Are you  making waffles?”  He grabbed the elastic off the counter and pulled up his hair.

“I am trying to make waffles but it is my first time.  I hope they are okay.  I was going to make pancakes but the box says it also makes waffles and I can read the recipe.  Do you like waffles?” he asked, hopeful.

        “Midge, I like everything.  I never turn down food and this smells amazing.  Thanks.  Want coffee?”  He grabbed the carafe and went to the sink to fill it.

“If I may.  I like it very much.”

        “I’ve been warned you’re a lightweight and have a one-drink limit” he joked.

“That is true.  Apparently I am funny but hyper when I have four cups.”

        “Four?  Yeah, that would do it.  Hey, I have bacon.  Want some?”

“I LOVE yumstrips!!!!  Oh, I’m sorry.  Yes please.”

        “You crack me up.  Bacon it is.”  He pulled the package out of the fridge and grabbed a frying pan.  “Should I just cook it all?”

“I would… if….. whatever you would like.”

        “I’ll take that as a yes.”  He got it started and then made them each a cup of coffee.  “Here you go.”

“Thank you.  The first waffle is very small.  This is hard.”

        “Yeah, mine always pour out the edges.  It’s all good, it doesn’t really matter what size they are.  So we’re going to my friends house this afternoon to eat.  They don’t know about you so you’ll have to handle the ears.  We need to leave about 1 o’clock, alright?”

“Of course.  I will be ready.  I do not mind staying here though, if you do not want to deal with me for your holiday celebration.”

        “Midge, I like you more than I like half of them, so you’re coming, alright?  Besides, if I leave your side…. let me think how he put it.  He said ‘if you leave his side other than to shit or sleep, I will make you pay.’  So you’re coming.”  He put the bacon on the plates and grabbed the syrup, heading towards the table.

“He would not hurt you, would he?”

        “Who, Scott?  If something happened to you… Yeah, he’d probably pop me one, at the very least.  But nothing’s going to happen.”  He grabbed the remote and turned on the parade.

“I love this parade!” Midge squealed, jumping up and racing towards the television.

        “Take your plate with you” he said, chuckling.  “He told me you would probably enjoy it.   Hey, did you sleep okay?”

“Very well.  You are right and the mattress is amazing.  It is like being hugged all night and is almost as nice as sleeping with Scott.”

        “I wouldn’t go that far, but I’m glad you like it.  I’m going to grab a shower.  Eat all the bacon you want, there’s more in the kitchen.”

Chapter 62 – Thanksgiving Pt. 2

Midge had thought the rehearsals he’d attended were crazy with so many people talking at once, in sometimes small spaces. This was a whole level above that though. He peeked around Zac’s arm but stayed close behind. He wanted to hold his hand but it wouldn’t be proper so he instead stuck them in his pockets. There were at least 20 people here, and his ears said even more but the noise just blended into a loud cacophony.

    Zac hugged Jake and handed him the pie he'd picked up from the bakery yesterday.  "Thanks for having us."

    "Oh Please! girl.  I'm just glad you finally graced us with your presence this year.  You must be the famous Midge" he said, leaning to the side to try to get a glimpse of the boy he'd heard so much about.

“Hello. It is nice to meet you.”

    "Midge, this is Jake.  It's his place, and he's my best friend so if you need anything at all just let him know" Zac said, moving out of the way so they could see each other.

    "There's beer, soda and water in the coolers.  Wine is in the corner.  Help yourselves.  Dinner in about 2 hours, or whenever it's ready" Jake joked, then disappeared back into the kitchen.

Midge just looked to Zac to see what the next move was.

    "Do you drink?"

“Of course” he answered.
All animals drink. Humans are very odd.

    Zac walked over to the wine table and poured himself and Midge each a glass.  "Happy Thanksgiving Midge" he said, clinking the glasses and taking a sip.

Midge copied, taking a small drink. “This is very good.”

    "Haven't met much Chardonnay I didn't like.  Let me show you around a bit and introduce you to a few people.  You don't need to try to remember everyone's names so don't worry.

An hour later Midge’s head was spinning. He’d met Grace, Kira and Julia and spent some time with them which had been fun. The men’s names were all blending together for him though, there were so many. He remembered Jake and Tyler but the rest were a blur. He looked for Zac and spotted him at the wine table and went over to grab another glass. “May I have another?”

    "Sure.  How are you doing?  It's a little crazy in here."

“It is. Everyone seems very nice though.”

    "They are.  Jake said dinner will be early but we have a few minutes to get some air if you want.  Balcony?"

“That would be nice.” Midge followed him out, grateful for some fresh air and a bit less noise. “May I ask you a question?”

    "Absolutely."

“You told me, when we first met at the party, that I talk like my sister. Today Julia asked where I was from and seemed confused when I said Texas. Can you explain?”

    "Well you certainly don't have a southern accent, that's for sure.  I meant your diction though.  You speak very formally, don't use contractions often.  It's just a little, I don't know, unusual I guess."

“You mean I say ‘I do not’?”

    "Exactly."

“And I would sound more like a real person if I did?”

    "A real person?  Not sure I would put it that way but yeah, you would blend in better I think, if that's what you mean by 'real'.  It's not a big deal though, really."

“I will keep that in mind. Thank you” he said, finishing off his glass. “This really is very good.” His phone rang in his pocket and he reached for it.

    "I'll give you some privacy.  Tell him 'hi' from me."  Zac walked back into the living room, closing the sliding door behind him.

“Hello Scott.”

“It’s so good to hear your voice. How’s everything going?”

“It is.. It’s fine. We are at Jake’s house and will eat dinner soon. Zac requested that I tell you ‘hi’ from him.”

“Wish I was there, dinner sounds good. I’m in Georgia getting ready to go onstage in about 20 minutes. We’re going to have a little meal afterwards, I think. I wanted to check in now just in case I don’t get a chance to call later tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

“That is… that’s fine. I will see you tomorrow.”

“Please be careful Midge. I miss you like crazy.”

Midge hung up the call and went inside to find Zac. He didn’t see him, but Tyler called him over.

    "Hey girl, you need a drink.  What can I pour you?"

“I am a boy. Chardonnay please. Thank you.”

    Tyler just laughed.  "No problem.  So, tell me, you and Scott?" he asked, eyebrows raised.

“Scott and I?”

    "Scott and.... whatever.  Yes.  So what's going on there?  Is it serious?"

Midge looked down at his bracelet and then back up at Tyler. “Yes. I think it is serious.”

    "Well good for you honey.  You'll have to teach me the secret to being buddies with an ex sometime because that is information we could ALL use."  He giggled and looked around the room, his eyes settling on Zac.  "Yes, that knowledge needs to be shared, especially with this incestuous little clan."  He held out the wine and topped off his glass and then Midge's before smiling and walking away.

    "Midge, dinner is served.  Come get a plate" Zac said, appearing behind him.  "You have a drink, right?  Good, let's eat."  He led him towards the counter and put a plate in his hand before grabbing one for himself. 

“There is too much food, how do I choose?” he asked, his eyes almost as big as his plate.

    "Well, I have learned one little trick along the way.  Some things will be gone after the first round, like that insanely good mac and cheese, so make sure you get some now.  Bread always waits till later, so does dessert."

“I will never be able to eat everything” he said, disappointed.

    "That is the joy and sorrow of a really good dinner, my friend.  No matter what, there will be regrets.  Luckily, there is always pie and coffee later and another Thanksgiving next year."

Midge sat down on the couch next to Zac, his nearly overflowing plate on his knees. He’d tried to get a spoonful of almost everything so that he could try it and get more of the things he liked best. He gladly accepted the glass of wine he was offered although he saw Zac decline and considered changing his answer. Once he took a sip though he was glad he’d stuck with his choice.

    Twenty minutes later Zac carefully slid the plate off of Midge's knees and angled him towards the pillow against the arm of the sofa.  He'd never seen anyone fall asleep in the middle of eating, but he didn't have much experience eating with Neko's either.  Scott had told him that he usually took a nap which he hadn't done today, so he wasn't too concerned.  He went to get seconds and chuckled to himself when he looked back at Midge who was curled into a ball, sleeping peacefully.  

Who could possibly compete with that?

Chapter 63 – Thanksgiving Pt. 3

Midge wasn’t quite sure where he was or why there were two Zac’s calling his name. “Yes?”

    "You're a little wasted, aren't you?" Zac asked.

“Wasted?” he asked, his eyes half open. “I do not know. Where am I?”

    "Jake's.  It's Thanksgiving and time to go home" Zac answered, grinning at the small boy who was desperately trying to get his bearings.

“No. Stay here on pillow. Eat pie.” His head tilted to the side as he closed his eyes again.

    "Nooooope."  With one fell swoop he lifted Midge bridal style off the couch.  "You're a tiny thing, aren't you?"

His eyes flew open as he felt himself being lifted. He threw one arm out and struggled to get away until he saw Zac. “Is okay?”

    "Yep.  I'm going to take you home."

Midge wrapped his arms around Zac’s neck and rested his head against his chest. When he saw Jake standing in the doorway to the kitchen he waved. “Bye Jake. It a very yummy dinner. Thank you.”

    Jake chuckled and waved back.  "See you soon Midge."

“Wait, I…. do we have to leave Zac?”

    "I think we should, yeah."

“I can walk.”

    "If you're sure.  If you fall, Scott won't be happy with me."  He placed him down carefully and kept his arms outstretched a moment to make sure he didn't topple over.

“You are very kind. Zac?”

    "Yes?"  He unlocked the car doors and held it open while Midge climbed inside.

“I want to do something fun.”

    "Fun?"

“Not FUN but fun.”

    "What?"  Zac was more than a little confused but he just started the car and headed towards his house.

“I mean yes FUN too but I can not so just fun.”

    "You're making no sense.  How many glasses did you have?"

“Of wine? I do not remember. I think Scott would say I had a bunch.” He laughed at his own joke before continuing. “A couple. Or 8. Or 4. Or probably something else. Can we drive around? I like the lights.”

    "I would make a snapchat for Scott but he might not find it funny.  You said you drank, but you don't, do you?"

“Now you make no sense. I drank. I drink. I drunk.”

    "That you are, that you are.  Okay, into the house with you."  He opened the door and closed it behind him, turning to see Midge stripping out of his clothes.  "Um, Midge?  You're going to leave some of those on, right?"

“Some of what where?”

    "Tell me you have drawers on."

“Underwear?”

    "Yes.  Nevermind, just go into your room before you strip, okay?"

“I hate underwear but I am wearing some. Scott made me promise. I can take them off?”

    "As long as you're in your room I don't care.  But no walking around my living room naked, okay?"

“Okay. Is the parade on?” He walked towards the couch, his pants dropping to his ankles and his tail uncurling. “So much better.”

    "MIDGE!"

He turned and sat down on his favorite recliner, pulling his pant legs off. “Yes Zac?”

    "Do you have sweats, or something?  Did you bring pajamas?"

“Why? I am not cold. May I have a drink of water?”

    "That is a great idea.  You need pants because Scott will KILL me if he finds out about this."

Midge jumped up, pulling at his jeans and managing to get them mostly on before running into his room, muttering “I am so sorry. So sorry Sir.”

    Zac grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and gave Midge a few minutes before knocking on the door.  "Midge?"

“I am sorry. I will stay here until it is time to leave. Unless you want me to leave now? I can leave now. Whatever you want.”

    "Midge, everything's fine.  Can you open the door?  I have your water."  Zac was worried he'd said something to upset him, but figured it would be much easier to deal with if there wasn't a closed door in between them.

“I can not. I should not. I am sorry. I will be fine.”

    "Open the door Midge."

He unlocked it immediately, then shrunk back and hid under the covers. “My apologies Sir, I did not mean to be rude.”

    "Don't call me Sir, you make me feel like my father or worse, my uncle."  He handed the bottle of water to Midge and sat down in the chair.  "I'm sorry you're upset.  What did I do?"

“Nothing. Nothing, of course. I am sorry. I do not want you to die. Please?” he begged.

    "Die?  What am I missing?"

“You said Scott would kill you.”

    "Oh God I didn't mean really.  He wouldn't... it's a figure of speech Midge.  People don't go around killing people."

“Yes they do. It happens often, among humans and Nekos. I do not wish to see, or cause, your death.” He couldn’t stop the tears then, when he thought about what he’d seen and done. He lay down and curled onto his side, hugging himself as well as he could.

    "Midge, I'm so sorry.  What can I do?"

“Are you sure you will not die?”

    "Absolutely.  Well, at least not because of Scott killing me.  Shit happens, I guess, but he won't be the one to kill me.  That I can promise you."

“Will you hold me?”

    "If you need me to, sure."  He walked over to the bed and lay down carefully, wrapping his arm around Midge's shoulders.

“Thank you for the comfort” he said, his tears finally waning. He lay in bed a few minutes until he heard Zac’s very soft snoring, probably indiscernible to most human ears, but there nonetheless. Then, he carefully got him undressed and comfortable to sleep and knowing he was safe with this man Scott trusted, he fell asleep too.

Chapter 64 – Black Friday

Scott was exhausted. Jumping coast to coast and back again in less than a day and a half was NOT the best way he could think of to spend the holiday. He parked the car rather sloppily and grabbed his bag, climbing the steps to the apartment. He was a little bit early and had considered picking Midge up on the way but he decided instead to get a shower and a quick nap before Zachary brought him home since those plans were already in place. Besides, as much as he loved being with people, he needed an hour to himself after the past two days.

He put the key in the lock and turned but it didn’t click over because it was already unlocked. He squinched up his forehead and thought about it, deciding that he must have left it open when he was leaving at 3:30 in the morning. Pushing open the door he walked in two steps and froze. The place was trashed. Absolutely destroyed.
Who the hell gets robbed on Thanksgiving? He grabbed his phone out of his pocket and dialed the police who said they’d send someone over.

The second call he made was to Midge, but he didn’t pick up. He tried again, then called Zac’s phone when he still didn’t get a response, but there was no answer on Zac’s phone either. He hesitated just a moment, then shot down the stairs and jumped into the car, racing to Zac’s house.

He bolted to the front door and then stilled, listening. He didn’t hear anything through the door, and Zac’s car was parked in the driveway like usual. He took a few deep breaths, telling himself he was being a childish moron for worrying so much. Just because someone broke into his apartment didn’t mean there was a huge conspiracy to get to Midge. Midge was probably fine, but he wouldn’t be if Scott banged on the door and woke him up looking and sounding like a maniac.

He closed his eyes and smacked his forehead, realizing that he’d run out on the police and they, and Midge, wouldn’t mix. He turned and got halfway to the car before he figured out that he had to talk to Zac and see if he could bring Midge over later in the day instead. He felt like a damn yo-yo, barely knowing if he was coming or going. He knocked quietly on the door, grinning when a rumpled, mostly naked Midge opened it. “Hey, how are you?” Finally the stress of the day started to dissipate.

“I do not feel well.”

“What’s wrong love?” He took a step towards Midge to pull him into a hug but stopped mid-stride when Zac walked out of the guest room in nothing but his boxer briefs. His eyebrows shot up and he raised his chin, staring and waiting for an explanation.

    "Morning Scott.  What are you doing here?" Zac asked, padding towards the kitchen to make coffee.

“I sort of want to ask you the same question right now. Did you hurt him?”

“No Scott, it is not his fault. Please do not be mad. If it is okay, please ask questions more quietly. You are hurting my head” Midge whispered. He tried to curl into Scott’s chest and get a hug but he was gently nudged to the side as Scott turned towards Zac.

    "Did I what?  I didn't do anything.  He had a bit too much to drink last night."

“Liquor? You let him get DRUNK? What the hell were you thinking? And then you can explain why you’re coming out of his room. I mean, unless he slept in yours? But why would he? Help me out here” Scott demanded.

    "Ohhh" Zac said, realization dawning.  "Sorry, I'm still half asleep, didn't have any idea what you were pissed off about.  Relax.  I didn't know he wasn't allowed to drink, it wasn't in the damn instruction manual.  I asked him if he drank and he said yes so I gave him a glass of wine.  Well, he took to it sort of how he took to coffee.  And the bedroom is nothing.  Look, he had a rough night and I fell asleep in there.  Nothing happened, I swear.  He was upset and he asked for a hug and we fell asleep, okay?"

“Do you realize how fucking lame that sounds?” he asked. He tried to keep his voice down a bit but he was out of patience. “Okay, look. I have to go home now on no fucking sleep and deal with the fact that I got robbed. Can you keep him here awhile? Doesn’t look like you’ll mind too much.”

“Scott?” Midge asked quietly.

“Yeah?” He finally turned and looked at him, trying to put half a smile on his face.

“I am sorry.”

“Do you have reason to be?”

“I do not know. You are mad, and that is enough reason I think. I do not understand – what happened at home? Did they take your things?”

“You know, all I could think about when I saw the apartment was making sure you were safe. There wasn’t anything there that mattered half as much as you. Now I know you are and I’m glad, I really am, but I don’t…. look I need to shut up before I say something I’ll regret. I don’t care about the apartment but I have to go and talk to the cops. Turn your damn phone on, okay? I’ll call you later.”

    "Scottie!" Zac called as he turned and took a step out the door.

“I don’t really want to talk about it right now, okay? I can’t deal with all this at once. As long as he’s safe, the rest I can deal with later, I guess.”

    "Nothing fucking happened Scott.  You know how I feel about being accused of shit but I'm taking it right now because it's you and I know you're head over heels.  But listen carefully cause I'm not saying it again:  Nothing Happened."

“Yeah, I know, I know – You and your ‘if you’re going to blame me, I may as well do it’ attitude. I’m not saying anything, okay? But I know him, and it wasn’t all that long ago that he was offering to blow me for feeding him breakfast, so forgive me for being a little freaked out when you walk out of his bedroom practically naked!”

    "He wouldn't do that.  He loves you Scott."

“No he doesn’t. I don’t know if he can’t or he won’t but…. he doesn’t. I thought… but if he… Midge?”

“Yes Sir?” he answered, his head bowed.

“Do you want to stay with Zac?”

“Until you are finished with the police?” Midge asked, fighting against his instinct to jump to conclusions.

“No, permanently. It’s okay if you do, I just… I need to know. I’ll do whatever you want.”

    "Scott!  Nothing fucking happened.  Why are you being an ass?" Zac asked, his eyes narrowing at Midge who was practically shaking.  "Of course he doesn't want to stay here!"

“It’s a question, that’s all. You should choose where you want to be Midge. I’ll call later and you can let me know, alright? I want you with me. Do you get that? Are you hearing me? I want you with me, but only if you want to be.”

    "Scott! You need a cup of coffee because it is too damn early to be acting THIS fucking insane.  I get that you've had a crappy morning but what year is it on the planet you just came back from?" Zac snarled.

“Awfully defensive, aren’t you? Look Zac, before it was either me or the asshole who…. you don’t need details. It literally wasn’t even a decision, alright? He stayed with me because I was his only decent option. Well, if he really loves me at all, he’ll still come back even if he has another place to go. Right?”

    Zac sighed.  "I get what you're saying but you know he'll want to go home with you and you're.... he's so upset.  Why are you doing this?"

“Maybe because I’m all in and he’s sleeping with YOU??!!!! Yeah, yeah, save it. I know. Nothing happened. I know you probably didn’t plan anything but he’s… the fucking Pope couldn’t turn him down and I’m finding it really hard to believe he didn’t offer.” He turned his back to them then and got into his car, heading back to his wrecked apartment.

Chapter 65 – Rearranging

Zac closed the door and turned just in time to see Midge duck into the guest room.  He considered following him but decided that he really needed a cup of coffee first.  He made one for Midge too and grabbed the bottle of ibuprofen before knocking on the door frame.  “Can I come in?”

“Of course.  It is your house.”

        “But it’s your room, at least for a few hours.”  He handed Midge a cup and the bottle and then sat down in the desk chair.  “Are you okay?”

“My head hurts but I am fine.”

        “I meant with what butthead said.”

“Please do not call him that, it is not nice” he pleaded.

        “Alright, but I think he deserves it.  I’m not real happy with him right now.  You know he didn’t mean any of that, right? He’s having a rough morning apparently.”

“I am sorry about the police and the apartment but I am fine.”

        “Fine?” Zac questioned.  “He owes you an apology but he’ll do it once he’s thinking straight.  He’s crazy about you.”

“It was my fault. He owes me nothing.  I did things I should not have done and I am grateful he did not beat me for it.  I am sorry, I should not have said anything.”

        “Oh….. right.  Other guy I assume?” Zachary blew out a huge breath before continuing.  “Midge, I don’t know how to say this but that’s really not who you should be comparing him to.  He was mean, even if it wasn’t as bad as what Steven would have done.”

“He was not mean, he only asked me to choose.  He said nothing that was not true.  He thought I pleasured you and he did not fight with you, or make me do so.  He said he wants me to come back and I believe him.  I am sorry I made him sad but I will do better if he will give me the chance.  I do not know why he thinks I must make a choice though, I am his.  Perhaps he forgot.”

        “Wow.  I really, really need a Neko.  So, you’re fine?  I mean, I’m glad as hell I just… okay.  Uh…. how about we go get something to eat?”

“I should not leave with you.  I will wait for Scott, if that is okay.  Oh NO!  My phone!”  He jumped up and grabbed his pants, then plugged in his phone.  “The battery is dead.  He reminded me to plug it in and I forgot.  You look sad, would you like to hold Marley?”  He held the stuffed kitten out but Zac just shook his head ‘no’ so he placed her back on his pillow.

        “Okay, I’ll run out and get us some grub and come back.  You can get dressed and pack or just try to rest that headache.  I won’t be gone long, alright?  No, wait, I can’t leave you alone.  Come with me, please?  It’s two blocks, and I’ll bring my phone.”

“If you are sure.”

        “He wouldn’t want you here alone and he’s not going to be finished with the police for at least an hour or so.  Want me text him and let him know?”

“No, I do not want to bother him if he is busy with the police.  I will be ready in a moment, I must hide myself.”

        “And I need pants.  Okay, see you in the living room in 10.”

***  ***  ***  ***

        They were almost back to the apartment when Zachary’s phone went off and he picked it up.  “Yes Ma’am?”

        “Hi Zac, is Midge still with you?” Kelly asked.

        “He is.  We have muffins and are heading back to the apartment.”

        “Perfect.  Scott told me I could pick him up and take him shopping.  Is that alright with you?  Can you ask him?”

        “Sure, hold on.  Midge, do you want to go shopping with Kelly?  Scott says it’s fine.”

“Yes, if Scott wants me to I would like to see Kelly.  But is the animal coming?”

        “He wants to know if Olaf will be there.” Zac repeated, grinning at the thought of Olaf running around a store.

        “Nope, I’ll pick him up in 20, okay?  Byeeeeeeeeeeee.”

        “Okay Midge, you’ve got 20 minutes to pack and eat and then she’ll pick you up, sans dog.  I don’t know why she’s going shopping on black Friday though, there is NOTHING I want that badly.”

“I have never been, it might be fun” he offered, ever the optimist.  He followed Zac into the apartment and went into the room to pack his bag.

Zachary sat on the couch and attacked his muffin, but was interrupted by his phone yet again.  “Hey Scott.”

“Keep him there.  Lock the door and don’t let anyone in, alright?  Don’t go anywhere.”

        “What are you talking about?  Kelly’s coming over to take him shopping.  She said you were fine with it.”

“No.  I’ll call her.  Don’t let him out of your sight.  Steven broke into the apartment.  I don’t know how he figured out where we live and I don’t know if he knows where your place is.  Just keep Midge there until I’m finished here, okay?  Please?”

        “Alright, alright.  Relax.  He’s fine and I’ll make sure he stays that way.”

“Tell him I’m sorry?  He won’t answer his phone.”

        “It was dead, he’s got it plugged in now.  He left it charging when we went to Starbucks—”

“You’re at Starbucks?” Scott interrupted.

        “No, we just got back to the apartment a few minutes ago and everything’s fine.  Don’t worry about us.”

“Okay.  I’ll call you as soon as I can.  And Zac?”

        “Yeah?”

“I’m sorry for being an ass.  Nothing happened, right?”

        “Nothing happened.”

Chapter 66 – Police

Scott ran up the stairs to his apartment just as the two police officers were coming down and they asked him to wait outside once they had his permission to head into the apartment to take a look around. He sat on the step thinking about Midge, and Zac, and the scene he’d just made. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if Midge decided to stay with Zac, but he couldn’t blame him too much after he’d spewed so much bullshit.

Now that he wasn’t standing in front of them, both half naked, Scott knew he’d overreacted. He glanced down at his bracelet and gave it a spin. Midge wouldn’t. He was ‘owned’ at least in his mind and he wouldn’t have done anything even IF Zac had tried and there was no way he had. Scott had to accept the fact that he’d been an ass.

He tried Midge’s number, wanting to apologize and make sure he was alright. He was probably hurt, and upset, and also had what appeared to be a rather unhappy hangover. What he didn’t have, apparently, was his phone. Scott shoved the useless thing back in his pocket and spent a few minutes trying to listen to what was going on in his apartment.

When it rang a few minutes later he grabbed at it, hoping Midge had called him back. Instead, it was Kelly. “Hey girl. Pack your pills in my bag again?”

    "One time, it was ONE TIME dork.  No.  I was thinking that you're probably not willing to let him go, but if you're finished getting it on, maybe I could take Midge shopping?  It's Black Friday and tradition and I figured he's never done it."

“Actually, that would be amazing. He’s at Zac’s and I have shit at the apartment I have to handle. Can you call Zac and pick him up from there? Make sure they know you asked and I’m fine with it.”

    "You gotta loosen the apron strings a little there, boo."

“No, no, just a rough morning. I was an ass.”

    "Too much detail!  Lalalalaaa lalalalalaaa"

“STOP. I wasn’t talking about sex you thirsty woman. Go get Midge and I’ll call when I’m finished here, okay?”

    "Will do.  Byeeee."

“Mr. Hoying?” the female officer called from his doorway.

“Yes?” He stood and brushed off his pants.

“We need you to come in here a moment. Don’t touch anything at all please, we have a few prints still setting up. Follow me.”

He stepped through the doorway and past the kitchen, but stopped in the middle of the living room even though the officer had moved into the bedroom. Midge’s beautiful artwork was ripped from the walls, torn to tiny shreds. Everything that had been on a table or the counter was now on the floor, along with a lot of glass from his television.

“Mr. Hoying? In here please” she called.

He put one foot in front of the other and walked into the room, where the two officers stood staring at the wall across from his bed. There, written in black was “Midge is mine!”

“Who, or what is a Midge?” the older, male officer asked.

“He’s…. he’s my boyfriend.”

“We’ll need a list of his previous relationships, and to speak to him as soon as possible. Where is he now?”

“He’s with a friend of ours.”

“He didn’t go out of town with you?”

“No, he stayed behind and had Thanksgiving with friends.”

“Do you have any idea who would have done this?”

“I…. yes. I… I just need to talk to Midge first. I’m not sure what he’ll want to do. Do we have to press charges or is it up to us?”

“That’s up to you but if it were me, I’d be doing it by the book and quickly. Incidences like these often escalate and i wouldn’t want to see anyone get hurt.”

“Thank you officer. I’ll talk to him.” He took the card he was offered and put it in his pocket. “Did he have a key? Can you tell?”

“No, he picked the lock but I wouldn’t stay here until it’s replaced, just in case. Do you have somewhere else to stay for a few days?”

“Yeah, yeah, that’s not a problem. Can I grab some clothes and things real quick?”

“Sure, just try not to disturb too much. The fingerprints are finished and we took photos already, but we may need to come back so leave it like this at least until tomorrow evening, alright? And lock the door when you leave.” She headed towards the kitchen and Scott walked the two officers out.

“Thank you both, very much.”

“You’re welcome Mr. Hoying. Stay safe, and let us know what you’d like to do.”

As soon as they left he closed and locked the door behind him and leaned against it. Steven. How the fuck does he know where I live? He grabbed his phone and called Zac, begging him to keep Midge at his apartment and safe. Then he called Kelly and called off the shopping trip.

He slid to the floor and pulled his knees up, wrapping his arms around them. They had a new apartment as of December 1st, he’d decided to pay double rent to make moving easy. He was SO glad he hadn’t pushed it off until the New Year. He just had to figure out who Steven was and how he had found them, and keep Midge safe for another week.
Maybe staying with Zac would be the best thing for him.

Chapter 67 – Spock

“Hey Midge, that was Scott.  You’re stuck with me for a little while longer, okay?  The shopping will have to wait.”

“That…’s fine.  Do you mind?”

        “Nope, it’s all good.”  Zac stretched out on the couch.  “Come get comfortable.  Your chair’s open.”

Midge grabbed Marley from the top of his bag and curled up in the recliner.  “I wonder when he will call me.”

        “Oh, info.  Sorry.  He said he tried earlier, but it must have been before you plugged your phone in or while we were at Starbucks.  He says he’s sorry and seems to have realized what an a… um, that he was wrong.  I’m sure he’ll call you later once things are settled down over there.  Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course” he answered, grinning.

        “So do you hate dogs or are you afraid of them?”

“They are evil and kill.”

        “What?” Zac asked, chuckling.  “Because you’re a Neko?  I mean I get that cats and dogs don’t get along but you’re not really a cat.  Can they tell?”

“I have never been near one but I have heard the stories, of course.  My mother told me all about the dogs.”

        Zachary sat up, looking over at Midge.  “Tell me a story, I don’t get it.”

“Neko children out during the day alone are often stolen by dogs.” he said, his voice near a whisper.

        “Seriously?  Or have you just heard it?  I mean, does it really happen or is it a story mothers tell their kids so they don’t wander too far from home?”

“Of course it must, they are evil.  I do not know why humans insist on keeping them in their homes.”

        “I’m not sure there’s actually anything to be afraid of.  Speaking of pets, how do you feel about cats?”

“I like them just fine.  How do YOU feel about cats?”

        “About the same, apparently.  I mean, do you like have some crazy connection?”

“Ah, I see what you are asking.  No, I do not think so.  I like them and think they are cute but they are not like me.  It would be nice to have a kitten, maybe.”

        “I always wondered.”

“May I ask you a question?”

        “Yep”

“Why are you kind to me?”

        “Why wouldn’t I be Midge?”

“Because you love Scott” he said, matter-of-factly.

        “A little, I guess. I don’t know.”  He sighed, then smiled.  “I like you, end of story.  And maybe I feel a little bit guilty about Misty so I try to help you.  How did you know?”

“I knew the night you came over, the way you said you missed him.  I could feel your sadness even though your voice was light.  It is in your eyes, too, sometimes.  I seem to read humans better than they read each other.”

        “That wouldn’t be hard, I barely know what I want most of the time, much less anyone else.”

“You could have lied earlier, told him I had offered or that something had happened last night.  He would have been very mad at me and maybe you could have won him back.”

        “I wouldn’t do that Midge.”

“But why not?”

        “Because it wasn’t true and he would have been just as mad at me as you, probably more.  I won’t try to get between you two, Midge.”  He ran his fingers nervously through his hair.

“But he could have us both.  I am just a Neko and you are a beautiful man.  He will tire of me soon.”

        “Why would you say that Midge?  He doesn’t see you that way, you know.  Neither do I, not that it matters too much.”

“It is kind of you to answer my questions.  May I ask one more?”

        “Yep, go for it.”

“Does he call you ‘Captain’ because of Star Trek?”

        Zac laughed.  “Yep, exactly.  I’m Captain Kirk and he’s Scottie.”

“I used to watch those shows a lot with Trent.  I liked the newer ones with Captain Picard better but he liked Spock.”

        Zac tilted his head, thinking.  “You’re Spock.  You’re totally our Spock.”

“Why?  Me?”

        “You’ve got the ears, and you’re half-human and don’t know why we act the way we do.  Plus, you see things differently.  I don’t know if you’re more logical, exactly, but it’s…. yep.  Spock.  We’ll have to run it by Scott, he’s seen every damn episode I think.  He’s such a dork.”

“It is very sweet of you to include me, I think.  Now I have two funny names.”

       “’And now the two of you can be Scock?  Uh, let’s go with Spottie instead” he joked.  “Seriously, it’s too damn perfect for words.”  Zac grabbed his phone and answered Scott’s call.  “Hey, how are things over there?”

“Fine.  How is he?”

        “Spock is great.”

“Spock?” Scott asked, confused.

        “Yep.  I don’t know how it took us this long to figure it out, but he is totally Spock.”

“Oh my god you’re right!  I’m obsessed!   Spock!”  He laughed for the first time that day.   “So does Spock hate me or does he want to come home?  Can I talk to him?”

        “Absolutely, here you go.”  He handed the phone to Midge, then went into his room to give them some privacy.

“Hey Midge, I’m sorry about earlier.  Are you okay?”

“I am fine and you do not need to apologize.  I..’m sorry.  May I please come home?”

“Absolutely, although I wasn’t sure you’d want to.  There’s just one little problem.  We don’t really have one for a few more days.”

“I do not understand.”

“It’s not safe.  It was Steven that broke in so we’ll have to stay somewhere else until the new apartment is ready, okay?”

“You could stay here, perhaps?” Midge asked.

“Why don’t I come pick you two up and we’ll go to dinner and figure things out.  Is that okay with you?”

“Very much.  I have missed you.”

“Me too little one.  See you soon…. Spock.”

Chapter 68 – Lovebirds

The drive felt at least twice as long as it actually took, but soon Scott was standing yet again on Zac’s front step, nervous.  He checked that he had his phone, then took off his hat and put it back on.  He’d just locked his doors for the second time when he heard Midge’s voice through the door.

“Would you like to come in or have you changed your mind?”

“I want to come in” he answered, feeling like a dumb ass.  When the door opened he walked in and turned to grin at Midge.

Midge wasted no time, just jumped into his arms in greeting, wrapping his legs around Scott’s waist and resting his cheek on his broad shoulder.  “I missed you.”

“I missed you so fucking much.  I’m sorry I yelled – forgive me?” he said softly, in case his head was still pounding.

        “That’s a much better reunion than the ass-hattery filled circus of bullshit that went on this morning.  I’ll be in my room for exactly 20 minutes and then I want the dinner I was promised.” Zac said, walking into his room and closing the door.  “And use the bedroom, NOT my couch!” he yelled through the door.

“Will do!” Scott yelled and made his way to the guest room with Midge still wrapped around him.

“We should not have fun here, it is not nice.”

“Not going to, not that I think he’d mind, but I really need some nookie.  Is that alright?” he asked, backing against the bed and sitting down.

“That would be very nice.”  He climbed off Scott just long enough for him to lay down and then snuggled against him.

“I could blame this morning on the fact that I was on overload between the traveling, and shows, and no sleep, and showing up to my wrecked apartment, and not knowing if you were okay” he said, stroking Midge’s hair “but the fact is that I was a jealous asshole although… I don’t know, I guess I did mean a lot of it.  Are you with me because you feel like you have to be?  Because you have nowhere else to go or because of the bracelet on your wrist?”

“I want to be with you.  I am yours.”

“Such a contradiction, but I want to believe the first part so I will.  Are you happy with me?” he asked hesitantly.

“I have never been happy like this.  Why are you sad?  What do you  need from me?”  Midge propped his head up on his hand so he could see Scott’s face.  “Is it because you said I do not love you?  Is that connected to this?”

“Yeah.  It’s all connected, I guess.  I don’t know how you feel because….it’s just weird.  Our relationship is complicated, to say the least.  I just have to deal with it until you come into your own a little more.  I just worry you won’t.  Fuck it, I’m sorry.  I don’t want to deal with this right now.  I’m good if you are.”

“I am, I think I..’m better than you right now.  But will you tell me what you mean when you say I do not love you?  What do I … what do I not  feel that you are missing?  Or do you want the words?  I will say them if you want.”

“I can’t tell you why you don’t love me, that’s all you Midge.  I can’t answer those questions for you.  But no, I don’t want you to say it if you don’t.  Ever.”

“I do not know if what I feel is love, it is just not… it is not important with Nekos and not talked about very much.  I am happy with you, and I want to bring you joy.  I like being with you and hearing you laugh.  You are good to me, and make me feel safe and wanted.  I miss you when you are gone and it makes my heart hurt when you are because I feel connected to you and your energy.  I have fun with you…. wonderful fun.  I am sorry I made you sad today because it hurts me to do so.  If that is love then I do.  If it is not, it is still amazing to me and I thank you.”

Scott took a deep breath and rolled to his side, hugging Midge tight and wrapping his leg around Midge’s until they were a jumbled mess of arms and legs.  When his eyes had mostly dried and the knot in his chest loosened, he kissed his forehead and then down his cheek, finding his lips when Midge tilted his head up.

“I did not mean to make you sad, my Scott.”

“You didn’t, silly boy.  I’m very, very happy.  That was beautiful, and amazing.  Thank you.”

“Humans are very weird.”

“Yes we are.  And this one loves you too.”

        “Come on lovebirds, I’m STARVING !!!”  Zac called from the living room.

Midge looked at Scott who had a huge smile on his face and burst into giggles.  Scott joined in a second later, laughing until his sides ached.

        “Y’all are FREAKS!  Who laughs afterwards?  Or during????” Zac yelled.

“Maybe you are doing it wrong” Midge said, bursting into a whole new round of giggles.  He laughed until he had tears running down his cheeks.

“See, we’re not so odd after all” Scott said, kissing a happy tear from his eye.  “Let’s go before he leaves without us.”

Chapter 69 – Notice

Chapter 69 doesn’t really exist, but 69 and a half does.  It’s in the ‘Excerpts’ Book. 

For those of you who don’t like smut chapters, let’s just say that the boys went out to Applebee’s to eat and Midge and Scott decided to stay at Zac’s for the night.  You may join us again the  next day in chapter 70 :)

I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the votes and comments – they mean a lot.  Writing a story this long and detailed takes a TON of time and a good bit of effort and I appreciate the fact that you’re enjoying it and let me know.

If there’s anything you’d like to see happen, things you want Midge to experience or ideas you have, feel free to leave them below in the comments.  I make no promises but I will do my best if something works well with the story.

Okay, off to write smut now…..

And it’s up ahem  giggles like a child

Chapter 70 – YouTube

Scott didn’t notice when Midge got out of bed the next morning but he felt him crawl back in and pulled him close.  “Mmm stay here” he muttered into his hair.

Midge didn’t answer except to comply, curling in closer, nuzzling against his chest.  He lay there for another hour, content to listen to Scott’s heartbeat and breathing.  He knew he was exhausted from travelling and the long day they’d had yesterday and wanted him to rest.  He heard Zac come back from the gym, he had read the note on the counter while he had been up earlier and knew he was planning on coming back and then would be gone most of the day.  He listened carefully, playing a game he had played for years, although in the past it had been to try to figure out what his master was doing, and his mood, and what might happen to him, and when.  Now it was fun, simply something to occupy his mind.  Zac had been in the shower but now was in the kitchen.  He knew he was right a moment later when he smelled milk and…. cereal maybe.  Raisins?  It was hard to tell through the closed door.

Scott shifted and half-rolled, then woke a bit and realized he had Midge in his arms.  “Good morning.”  He kissed the top of his head and playfully squeezed his ass.

“Good morning” he giggled, wiggling his hips playfully.  He nipped at Scott’s nipple and took it into his mouth.

“Mmmmm” He looked down at Midge who looked back at him, and tried to decide how far to take things.  “Is he here?”

“Yes.”  He was proven right a second later when the television turned on.

“Fuck.  Oh well, tomorrow we move into the new place so we’ll have to be good and wait.  Avi, Kevin, Jake, Jeremy and Zac are going to help move stuff and I haven’t packed a damn thing.  Of course, most of it’s trashed so I guess there’s not too much to worry about.  Maybe Kirstie and you can pack up some stuff while we move it in shifts.  I don’t want to THINK about moving right now.”

“But you are.  You should stop.  Would you like a massage?”

“Would I?  I would literally DIE for one.  Wait, I know you’re weird about that, sorry.  Yes, I would LOVE one.”  He flipped onto his stomach and groaned when Midge’s weight settled on his ass.

He started low, palms spread against Scott’s lower back, slowly making circles with the heels of his hands.  Then his thumbs, working the muscles along his spine until he reached his shoulders, then back down his sides.

“Please don’t stop.  Ever.  Just…. owww yes there.  It’s a good pain, don’t stop.”  His breathing slowly relaxed again as Midge worked out a huge knot below his shoulder blade that he hadn’t even known was there.  When his nimble fingers later worked up his neck and started to caress his scalp, he was in heaven.  “That feels sooooo fucking amazing.”

Midge answered by placing a few kisses between his shoulder blades, his fingers not stopping.  He worked up his scalp and gently tugged at his hair, then back down to his shoulders and to his worst spot to make sure it was not tightening back up.  “You should take a nice hot shower, it will help you feel better.”

“That does sound amazing.”  Once Midge had moved off him he waited just a moment before slowly sitting up.  “Oh, I wanted to show you our New York performance.”  He went to his bag and pulled out his Ipad and hopped on YouTube.

Midge settled beside him, watching him.  He was absolutely fascinated by the intro screen.  “What is this?”

“Oh, YouTube.  It’s all videos that people upload.  There’s like, literally everything on here.  There are a bunch of our videos but you can also see anything in the world.  Just type it here” he pointed to the search bar.  He pulled up the video from Thursday and handed it to Midge.  “I’m going to get a shower.  Thank you so much.  Feel free to amuse yourself while I’m gone.”

Midge watched their performance and then went back and found a few others.  It was amazing watching them on the stage.  Scott was mesmerizing, at least to him.  He was confident and played to the crowd and looked like he was having so much fun.  He clicked a video that was suggested on the right and then another, ending up watching people who were not nearly so good.

Then he had an idea, and typed ‘Neko’ in the search bar.  And then he wished he hadn’t.  What is this?   He clicked a random video but it wasn’t in English.  The words flashed across the screen but it was too quick for him to read it well enough to really follow along.  It didn’t take him long to figure out that the cartoon girls in underwear were certainly not very interesting to him.

The next click brought him to something called Neko club and although it was a silly cartoon girl on the screen, what caught his attention was the music.  He was fascinated, his ears picking up many different sounds, layered enough to pull him in.  Drumstep?  Dubstep?   He was still staring at the unchanging screen when Scott walked back in.  “What is this?”

“Heck if I know.  EDM of some kind.”

“EDM?” he asked.

“Electronic dance music, or something like that” he replied.  “Do you like it?”

“It’s amazing.”

Scott glanced at the screen and read the title.  “I have no idea how those things go together.  When I first met you I googled Nekos and this is about as helpful as that was.  I ran into Zac on his way out and he brought up a very good point – we need to go shopping for furniture, a new TV, all kinds of shit today so it can get delivered fairly soon.”

“Can we bring the music?”

“Hand me your phone and I’ll hook you up while you get showered, okay?”

“Thank you so much!”  Midge practically skipped to the bathroom, beats and rhythms flowing through his head.

Chapter 71 – Ikea

This was the biggest store he’d ever seen.  It was like walking through a mall, but with 3 (or four, he had lost track) floors and it was all one store.  What worried him was that Scott looked just as overwhelmed as he felt.

Scott wasn’t sure why he was holding this ridiculously small pencil or where in the world ANY of this stuff was or how this worked.  He would have left and gone back to the apartment to tear into Zac except he couldn’t figure out how to get OUT of the damn place.  Finally, inspiration struck.

        Scawt:

Come help me.  I’m lost and don’t know how this works.

        Z-man:

  Ikea?

        Scawt:

  This is like a haunted house, but happy.  HELP.

        Z-man:

  You want me to leave Jake’s poker game to come help you shop?

        Scawt:

Isn’t that what I said?

        Z-man:

You’re hopeless.  Be there in 20.  Meet you at the restaurant.

        Scawt:

  How do I get there?

         Z-man:

  Follow the damn signs with forks.  I’m done with you Scottie.

“Okay Midge, it’s going to be okay.  Zac says there’s food and he’s going to come rescue us.”

“Yes, but the food is above us.  I think they have meatballs.”

“Lead the way please!  Maybe this place isn’t so bad after all.” He followed him back through approximately 89 couches, 31 chairs and more place mats then he’d ever seen in his life.  “Why are there SO many light bulbs?”

“I do not know.  But the food is…..”  He stopped a few feet outside the doorway and ducked his head.

        “Midge?”

Scott didn’t recognize the man but he knew he wasn’t anyone Midge wanted to see.  He stared him down, gently nudging Midge towards the door.  “Go ahead.”

        “Relax, I don’t mean nothing by it,  I just hadn’t seen him in awhile.  How you doin’ Midge?”

“I am fine Carlos.”  He watched as Carlos stared at him and realized he was looking for his collar.  He pushed his sleeve up and held his hand out a bit to show his bracelet.

        “Have fun with your pet” he said, looking at Scott, then walked out of the restaurant.

Scott took Midge’s elbow and led him over to a table.  “Who was he?  Do we need to get out of here?”

“He is Carlos and everything is fine” Midge answered.  “Are you hungry?”

“No, I’m worried.  Who is Carlos?”

“He is a friend of Jose.  He is not a danger to me.  He knows the rules and knows you are my master.  I am safe.  I would like some meatballs if that is okay.”

Scott rested his chin in his hand and stared at Midge a moment.  “If you say so.  Okay, meatballs it is.  He got up and brought Midge to the counter with him where they ordered their food and waited.  “You’re sure it’s fine?”

“I am sure.  These are good.  They are balls of meat and are called meatballs.  Why is all food not named that way?  Bacon should be called ‘yumstrips’ and coffee should be called ‘hypermilk’.  It would make it easier to order.”

Scott had to put his fork down and tilt his head down to hide his laughter.  He covered his mouth and almost had it under control until he looked at Midge who had the most innocent yet cocky expression on his face he had ever seen.  “They do it for fried chicken too.”

Midge’s eyes widened.  “You are right!”

“And cakeballs.”

“What is a cakeball?  You mean it is a ball that is cake?”

“Exactly.”

“I must try these cakeballs.  Balls are very good.” he said, popping another meatball into his mouth.

“MIDGE!” And he was gone.  He tilted his head back and laughed until he was bright red.  When Zac walked in a minute later he tried to contain himself but as soon as he uttered “And orange juice” he lost it again.

        “I should keep walking and pretend I don’t know you.  Hi Midge.”  He sat down in the chair and turned to the only sane one at the table.  “Is he okay?”

“I think so.  He is laughing and that is good.”

“They’re even better with sticks.  Cakepops.  Oh god.  Sticks.  Balls.  Pops.  I can’t!” Scott muttered between labored breaths.  “Oh god.  Help me.  My stomach….”

        Zac rolled his eyes and sighed.  “Has he been like this all morning?  Or is he always like this around you?  That explains the laughing yesterday…. Oookay, um, are you ready to go?”

“I am finished but Scott has not eaten all of his.”

        Zac stabbed two meatballs with Scott’s fork and shoved them into his mouth.  “He’s had enough.  Come on Spock, he’ll follow along.”

Chapter 72 – Beds

*** Guys, this little story that started in my head as a bit of a mostly forgotten dream now has 150,000 reads.  Thousand.  150.  Um, WHAT?!!?!?!!  sighs  I’m a bit emotional.  Thank you all so much.  SOMAJ!! 

passes out hypermilk and chocolate-chip circletreats

Scott saw Midge’s hesitation so he smiled back and got up and followed along, catching up to them easily.  He still didn’t trust himself to speak though so he just followed along and made funny faces at Midge.

        “Have your list Scottie?” Zac asked.

“List?”

        “Yeah, of the top fucking diesel truck engines of 2014.  What you NEED, Scott.  The list of what you NEEEEEED.”

“Oh, that would have helped, probably.”  He held up one hand and started using his fingers to count on as he rattled items off.  “I don’t know, I guess we um, we need a bed and nightstand and whatever for Midge’s room.  New dishes, a TV, a stand to put the new TV on.  Bedding for both beds.  I don’t know, I think that’ll get us through the first week or so until we figure the rest out.”

“I did not realize he took so much.” Midge said sadly.

“Most of it he just destroyed.  I’m not sure he actually took anything, oh yeah, the PlayStation.  He took that, and a few of my hats.  It was too much of a mess to notice much else.”

        “He came to Ikea without a list” Zac mumbled under his breath.  “Who fucking comes to Ikea without a list?”

“Scott does, you said so.”  Midge answered, unaware that it wasn’t meant to be heard.

“Talking shit about me Zac?  He has really good ears, you know.”

        “Sorry.  No I’m not, it’s still true……..” he joked.

“Shut up old man” Scott joked, standing still.  “Seriously, where do we start?  What are all these damn numbers and tags for?”

“He is not old.  Are you old?” Midge asked.

        “Older than him, just a few years although sometimes it feels like a LOT.  Scott, just write down the numbers of the stuff you want, okay?  We’ll figure out what we’re taking and what will get delivered when we check out.  Can’t get the TV here but just about everything else probably.  Okay lovebirds, let’s go.  I have a date later and I am NOT cancelling.  Come on.”

They went by the dishes first and picked out a set.  Next came the beds, all done up with pretty bedding.  “Okay Midge, try them out and see what’s comfy” Scott said.  “I’m going to grab a comforter and cover for mine and I’ll be right back.”  He wandered around the display, finally deciding on boring blue and went to the stacks to find it.  “Zac?  Help.  How can it fit a full or a queen?  What?”

        “It’s all like that.  Do you never buy anything?”

“But I wanted this one and they only have twins.  Which one is closest?”

        “Do I LOOK like I work here?  I don’t know.  Go check.”

“You are SO NOT helping.”  He grabbed what he hoped would work and headed back to the corner they’d left Midge in but he didn’t see him anywhere.  “MIDGE??” he said loudly, frantic.  He spun in a circle, not sure which way to go first.

“Yes Scott?”  Midge sat up from the bed he’d been napping in.  “I like this one.”

        Zac was speechless and chuckled to himself.  “You two, I swear.”

“God you scared me.  Okay, I’ll write it down.  Why don’t you pick out some blankets with Zac?  And Captain – could you please HELP him?”

        “Of course.  He needs help.”

“So did I!”

        “NO, you’re just lazy.  There’s a difference.  Come along Spock.”

“You should not be–Oooooooooooooooooh” he gasped.  “This is so pretty!!!!”  Midge held up the striped duvet in purples, blue, pink and white.

        “This one’s your size – here you go.”  Zac handed him the cover and walked him over to pick a comforter and sheets.  Once that was done, he carried them back to where Scott was reclining on the bed Midge had chosen.

“Hey, I had to test it out.”

        “Come on lazybones, don’t you need a TV stand and a nightstand and what, a dresser?”

“Do you want a dresser Midge?”

“I have a huge closet, I do not see how I could possibly need one.”

“Okay, maybe some baskets or whatever to organize it?” he asked Zac.

        “Alright” he sighed.  “Come on.”  He looked at his watch and then grinned at Midge before sending a nasty face in Scott’s direction.

Midge was fighting to keep up but Scott and Zac had very long legs and were heading off quickly.  He glanced to his left and saw it, Disneyland.  It wasn’t quite the same, but it was full of toys.  He stood mesmerized a few moments and then hurried over to the huge selection of stuffed toys.  There was the most adorable elephant he had ever seen, along with birds, a stupid dog, and even rabbits and frogs dressed in clothes.  There was a train set and a dollhouse but what called to him the most was the easel.  He grabbed the markers and sat down on a circle of poof and then started drawing; he hadn’t been able to in almost a week and had to much he needed to express.

Scott looked back and froze, trying not to panic.  “Midge?”

        “Midge?” Zac called, looking around as well.  “Let’s backtrack, maybe he got distracted.”

“Okay.  I’m not panicking.  I’m not.”

        “Good, wouldn’t help.  Wait, is that him?”  Zac could only see his head through the racks of toys but it was definitely a possibility.

Scott walked up as quickly as possible, letting out his breath when he realized it was his Midge.  He almost interrupted but instead stood and watched him draw.  Trees took shape, the forest more blurry already filled in behind him.  Then two people, from the back, no, make that one person and one Neko because it was definitely them.

        “Wow, you’re really really good Midge.  Can we buy him the easel and take it with us?  I’ve got an hour and a half to be ready.” Zac asked.

“Oh, I am so sorry Zac.  I did not mean… I am sorry.  I was rude.  I will come with you if you can walk just a bit slower.”

        “No problem Midge, but we should head out and finish up the list.”

“Can we bring these happy dots Scott?  They seem to go on the wall?”

“You sure love colors.  Yep, hand them to Zac the pack mule.  And I’m sorry Midge, I didn’t mean to leave you behind.  Come on.”  Scott took Midge’s hand in his and they had soon picked out a night stand and lamp for Midge’s room.  When they were finally in the car and headed back to Zac’s apartment, Scott made one last quick stop for food.  “Have you ever had Chipotle?”

“No, I do not think so.”

“Well it is PAST time.  Come on in and be prepared for yummy.”

Chapter 73 – Moving

Scott decided that he didn’t want Midge anywhere near the old apartment.  He didn’t need to see the mess and destruction, and he definitely didn’t need to be anywhere Steven could find him.  Avi, Esther and Kelly had agreed to sit tight at the new place with Midge to help unpack and get things organized.  They were going to handle all the food and be there for the cable installers to hook things up and the delivery guys to bring Midge’s bed and mattress as well.

        “I’ve got it Scott” Avi said again, trying to get him to finally let Midge out of his sight.  “I’m not going to let anything happen, alright?”

“I know.  I appreciate you hanging here.  I just feel safer leaving him if there are people around and you know most of it, so…. okay, I’ll be back in awhile with the first truckload.”

        Avi turned around just in time to see the girls and Midge disappear into what he thought was going to be Midge’s bedroom.

“This is my room, he says.” Midge told them, walking in and over to the corner.

        “This is NICE!!  The bed would be perfect there.” Kelly said, pointing to the wall across from his closet.

“That seems like a good place.”

        “Why the sad face Midge?” Kelly asked while Esther checked out the closet.

“I would rather be with him but it is fine.  It is what he wants.”

        Avi peeked his head in the door.  “Do you need me to save you from the girls yet?” he asked, grinning.

“No.  I am fine.  Kelly says the bed should go there.”

        “Will do.  They just finished unloading Scott and Zac’s cars so if you want to come sort this stuff out, I can haul it to the right rooms.”

The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur.  There were boxes and bags and lots of people wandering back, forth and through the apartment.  Esther arranged lunch and 5 pizzas disappeared in shifts as people took a break whenever they dropped off a load.  Midge spent most of his time directing traffic.

        “Okay Avi, you and Midge need to hold down the fort while we ladies go and get you some groceries, alright?” Kelly asked, list and keys in hand.

        “No problem, we’re good.  Scott told me they were going to start cleaning up over there now, there’s not much more.  Besides, I want to get a chance to talk to Midge.” Avi answered, practically pushing them out of the apartment.

        “We’ll be back soon!” Esther called over her shoulder.

        “So, Midge.  Mind taking a break?  I’ve been wanting to ask you something.”

“Sure.  I will try to help.”  He curled on the couch which had been delivered only an hour ago.

        “If this isn’t okay to ask, or if you’re not allowed to tell me or something like that because it’s secret, or magical or something, just let me know, alright?  I totally get that.”

“Okay?” Midge said, curious.

        “I have SO many questions.”

“About what?”

        “You.  And other beings.  Can I ask… I mean, do you KNOW, like for sure, if dragons exist?”

“Today?  Do you mean are they still alive?  I do not believe so  I think humans would have found them by now.  After all, you can find Scott’s car on his phone as it drives.  That is so amazing.”

        “But they TOTALLY did, right?!!???!!  When?? What were they like?”

“I have never seen one, Avi, I only know stories and fairytales but they are not the same as yours.  Who is to say who is right?”

        “But you’re…. you’re magical so you must know, I think.”

“I am not magic, I am just a Neko.  You are silly.”

        “What about gnomes and trolls and elves and fairies and all those other things?”

“I have never seen them.  I think you must read a lot of books.”

        “But YOU’RE real!  And before now I only saw Nekos in Anime so what if it’s all true?”  he asked, eyes wide.

“Perhaps you are right” he answered.  He didn’t want to ruin Avi’s fun; he knew how much dreams were worth.

        “Okay, okay, so where did YOU come from? Nekos I mean.  You must know that.”

“Where did humans come from?  I know lots of stories.  We were kept by the Pharoahs of Egypt; that is as far back as my knowledge goes.  There are also stories of us being from the North, where it is very cold.  They say we split from humans around the time they settled in Canada many, many years ago.  But as to how we became part cat?  Some say it happened while we were still in Asia, and that is why they still revere cats in some of their cultures.  The truth is probably neither.  I am sorry I can not help.”

        “Do you have any, like, powers or abilities?”

“I can hear well, and see better at night although I do not see well far away anymore.  I have a good sense of smell.  I am told I can sing.  But I can not do magic, if that is what you are asking.”

        “Are you telling me that because you’re not allowed to tell me anything?  That’s it, isn’t it?  Are you allowed to tell me if…. you probably can’t.  I get it.  I get it.”  He nodded his head, a knowing smile on his face.  “Of course you can’t tell me the truth and that is absolutely cool.  I get it man.”

“You are an odd person, but I like you Avi.  You are fun.  Scott is back.”

        Avi turned to the door but didn’t see him.  He turned back at Midge who just tilted his head towards the door.  Avi grinned, taken aback when Scott walked in a minute later with the vacuum cleaner.

“Heeeey, we’re finished.  Finally.”  He collapsed onto the couch next to Midge.  “Comfy.”

“You smell.”  Midge said, leaning away.

“No shit.  Sorry.  Even I can smell it, it must be awful to you.  I’ll get a shower as soon as I can get up.  Any chance we have towels and soap in there?”

“Yes, it is all ready.”

        “Alright guys, if you’re settled I’ll head out.  Thanks for everything Midge, it was nice getting to know you a little better.”

“You as well Avi.  I..m sorry I did not have answers for you.”

        “I get it, I get it.  No worries man.  See ya Scott!”

“Do I even want to know?” Scott asked.

“Probably not.  He is a little weird but very nice.”

“My thoughts exactly.  You’ve got him pegged.  Although, sometimes I think HE’S the normal one and just seems weird to me because I’m strange.  I don’t know.”  Scott slowly stood, exaggerating his movements as he rose.  “God I’m beat.  I’m going to shower and then not move from this couch until it’s time for bed.”

“Kelly and Esther are bringing back the food; I will open the door for them and put the things away if that is alright.”

“That would be amazing” he answered, shuffling away in the wrong direction for a moment before remembering where the bathroom was.

Midge grinned with happiness and then spun in a circle with his arms outstretched before going in search of Marley.

Chapter 74 – Returned

Midge rummaged through his overnight bag for several minutes before giving up and dumping it out on his bare mattress.  No, not here.  He looked around the room, then walked back to the living room to see if he had left her on the couch, or in the kitchen.  He was still prowling around when he heard Esther and Kelly at the door.  “Coming.”

        “Hey hon, take this” Kelly said, handing him a gallon of milk.

“Thank you so much!”  He put it on the counter and went back to walking around the apartment.

        “K-poof, what is he doing?”  Esther asked.

        “No idea.  Midge?  What are you doing?”

“I can not find Marley.  Have you seen her?  I am trying to remember if she was here earlier.”

        “Who’s Marley?” Esther asked

“My stuffed cat.  She is black and white, and stands up, and is about this big” he answered, holding his hands out.

        “I don’t remember a stuffed cat, but this place is a disaster – who knows?” Kelly said.  “Midge, make sure the cold stuff gets in the fridge, okay?  I have GOT to get home and walk Olaf, poor boy has been cooped up for hours.”

“Okay” he mumbled, walking into Scott’s room to look.

        “Okay Esta, we are OUT.  Byeeee Midge, and Scott, wherever you are!!” she called, closing the door behind them.

Scott came out of the shower a few minutes later and swore the apartment had somehow gotten messier.  The food was still sitting on the counter, including Midge’s beloved milk and his first thought was to panic when he didn’t see him anywhere.  “MIDGE???” he called, walking towards his room.  He knocked, then peeked in the door but he wasn’t there.  MID–“

“Yes?” he asked, standing in his doorway.  His eyes were red and his forehead was furrowed down.

“God you scared me.  What’s wrong?”

“I can not find Marley.  She is gone.  Will you help me?”

“Yeah, yeah, of course.  Um, let’s get the groceries put away though, don’t want to ruin your milk.”  He walked into their new kitchen and started going through the bags, throwing the cold stuff into the fridge and freezer in no particular order.  “Okay, are you sure she made it here?  Could she be at Zac’s?”

“YES!  Maybe she is there.  I do not remember if she was here.  It was such a busy day.”

“Okay, let me find my………… phone, where’s my phone, ah.” he said, wandering back into his room and grabbing his jeans “and call him real quick.”

        “The answer is no.  Whatever you want.  No.” Zac joked before Scott had a chance to ask him anything.

“Is Marley, the stuffed cat, at your place?” Scott asked.

        “Uhh, fine, I’ll look.  Let me check the room.  Hold on.”

“What’s all the noise?  Having a party?”

        “For your information I am alone.  I’m rocking my tiger onesie and singing my heart out while drinking several alcoholic beverages.”

“I knew we were keeping you from the things you love.  I can’t believe you let us stay as long as you did.  Any sign of her?”

        “I’m only looking for Midge.  You understand me Hoying?”

“Yes Captain” he answered sheepishly.  “Are you actually serious?”

        “Mmmhmm, want a snap?”

“Absolutely.  Midge will get a kick out of you dressed like a cat.”

        “I’ll think about it.  I don’t see the stuffy.”

“Did you just call it a stuffy?”

        “Shut up Scottie.  I’ll let you know if I find it.”

“Thanks.  Have fun tigger.”

        “Tiggers are wonderful things Pooh.”

“Boing Boing.”  After hanging up he turned to Midge who had a hopeful look on his face.  “Sorry, he didn’t find her.  He’s going to keep looking though.”

“Oh.  Alright.  I was just hoping.”

“She’ll turn up tomorrow Midge, don’t worry.  It’s just chaos with all the moving.  I’m sure she’s fine.”

“I did not want to sleep in the new bed and new apartment alone.  I … I will be fine.  I am sorry, it is fine.  Thank you for asking him.”

“You can sleep with me, although I’m not quite as snugly as Marley.  We should try out your new bed, don’t you think?  I’ll help with the sheets.”

“I like you MUCH more than Marley, well, this Marley.  You will sleep in my bed?  That would be wonderful and I would like it very much.  I am doing much better you know.”

“You’re amazing, but what in particular?”

“I am telling you what I want and you do not get mad.  It is very nice.” Midge said, throwing a pillowcase at Scott.

“You’re right, you’ve been doing great.  I appreciate it, too.”  He dressed two pillows and sat them to the side.  Once they had gotten the sheets and blankets on, he threw them back onto the bed and then belly-flopped onto it.  “Oh yeah, this will work.  Come here, you.”

Midge crawled in, burrowing under the blankets and cuddling up with Scott.  “I am glad we did not misplace your nook.  I would rather have it than Marley.”

“You’re sweet, and it will always be right here if you need it.  I am literally exhausted.  I own too much heavy shit.  Next time I move I will hire people to lug it around.  I am SO done.”

“I am sorry you went to all this trouble for me.”

“Don’t do that Midge, don’t put that on your shoulders.  I was glad I did it BEFORE that fucker broke in and now I’m extra glad.  I obsessed with this place, so no regrets.  Okay?”

“Thank you.  Someone is here, I think.  I do not know the sounds here yet.”

A moment later he heard the knock at the same time his phone went off.  “I’ll get it.  It had better be important” he grumbled, climbing out of bed.

Midge followed behind as Scott looked through the peephole.

“I can’t see.  Who is it?” he asked.

        “It’s Captain, with a runaway.” Zac answered.  “Open the damn door before someone sees me and calls the cops.”

Scott opened the door and sucked in such a big breath he could barely close his mouth.

“You are a tiger!!!” Midge exclaimed, clapping.  When Zac brought his hand out from behind his back and showed him Marley, he grabbed for her.  “Marley!”

“You, you came out in that.  You went in PUBLIC like that.  I can NOT with you!” Scott said, still laughing.

        “I knew you’d be all ‘oh please, I’m so tired, please bring it over here’ but we’d talk and I’d try to get out of it for half an hour but you’d finally convince me so I saved the time and just did it.  I’m going home now so shut up.  And you owe me Scottie.  I WILL collect, so be ready.”

“Bye Cap, thank you!” he said, closing the door.  “So, one big happy family again.  Is the TV up and running Midge?”

“I believe so.  Avi was watching it a bit earlier to test things.”

“Okay, movie time.  The couch is definitely big enough for all three of us but if the blanket isn’t, furriest gets left out.”

Midge tilted his head to the side.  “That..s fair.”

*** There is a 74 and a half in the Excerpts book ;)  Enjoy!

Chapter 75 – Momentum

It took two days but the apartment was finally at least mostly in order. There were still a few corners to go through but it was getting there. Scott returned from rehearsal to find Lisa and Midge still pouring over the computer and printer where he’d left them two hours before. “How goes it?”

“The pictures are all online and Lisa showed me how to print labels and mail them. I just need to add new drawings as I make them.” Midge answered, beaming.

“Can I see?” he asked, walking up to peer over their shoulders. “Wow, it’s perfect Lisa. I am obsessed!”

    "Thanks.  I didn't do much though, it's his art that's amazing.  Etsy's fairly easy once you get the basics set up" she answered.  "So, call me if you need anything Midge but I think you're set.  I need to get home in time to feed the children.  They get restless otherwise."

Scott laughed. “Food is literally the most important thing ever. Thanks again Lisa, we owe you one.” He walked her to the door and came back over to sit next to Midge. “Are you sure you really want to sell the originals and not just copies?”

“Yes, it is fine. I like to draw new things and I think it is more personal to have the original, do you-don’t you think? I want people to like them.”

“Can’t argue with that, I’m damn glad I have the original you” he answered, pulling him into a hug. “So, I heard someone mention dinner?”

“Lisa did, yes. Are you hungry?” Midge asked.

“Almost always. For everything. You, dinner, you. Mmhmm, I am very, very hungry. Want to go out?” Scott asked, looking him up and down and smirking. “Or we could order in?”

“You are being suggestive. It does not matter to me. Out then back or staying in is almost the same. Both ways are nice.”

“Actually, we should go out. I have a business proposition for you and it seems weird to offer it naked. Besides, your ears are already down so we may as well. Give me 15 and we’ll go, alright?”

---

Midge sat in the booth sipping his iced tea and listening carefully. Scott was acting so calm about it but it seemed like a very big deal. “Could you please say it again? It was too much to take in the first time.”

“Sure. Okay, maybe background would help. So, we were all talking at rehearsal today about a really great song that just isn’t working for us. Avi wrote it and it’s amazing, but we can’t quite pull it together. Something’s missing. Kevin muttered under his breath that it was a shame you weren’t there, because it would sound much better and it just clicked for all of us. He was absolutely right.”

“So” Scott continued, “stick with me here. We want you to consider being a guest artist and collab on the song with us. It would go on the album but you wouldn’t have to join the group or perform with us, because we wouldn’t do it live. It would be a great way to get your feet wet. We could get in the studio, see if your voice works as well as we think it would. What do you think? And we’d pay you, of course.”

“I do not like to be wet” he answered. “But I think I understand now.” He was interrupted as the waitress sat their plates in front of them. “I would like to think about it tonight, is that okay or do you need an answer right away?”

“Tomorrow is fine. You can come to rehearsal with me and listen to it, if you want, before you make up your mind. I’ll be gone this weekend Midge, we’re leaving Friday morning and I won’t be home until Sunday night. I wish you could come, I really do. I’ll talk to Zac and have him check in on you. You can call him if you need anything – I’ll put his number in your phone tonight. I’m sorry I have to go but it pays the bills.”

“And you love it.”

“But I love you too. I hate to leave one thing I love to do another, but I like having an apartment. And food.”

“I like those things too. I would hate to sleep in the tree very much.”

“A tree?”

“I have not thought of her, I should take her some food and make sure she is okay.”

“Who? I am SO lost.”

“When I… when I ran away I went to the park and a kind girl there told me I could sleep in her tree if you would not let me back. She was hungry and I gave her a granola bar. I should visit and bring her some more food. I should have thought before we moved, it is further now. I am so forgetful.”

“The old place isn’t that far, but I don’t want you going alone, alright? I’ll take you sometime if you want.”

“Thank you. I think I would like to help her.”

Chapter 76 – Olaf

Midge heard his phone ringing as soon as they entered the apartment. He grabbed it and plopped down on his bed, excited that it was Kelly. “Hello.”

    "Hey Midge, how are you?"

“I am fine Kelly, how are you?”

    "Not great, actually.  I need to ask you a HUGE favor."

“I would love to help you, you have been very kind to me. But if it is about the song I am not quite sure yet. Scott said I could decide a bit later.”

   "Actually, it's worse.  Well, for you anyway.  You know we have shows this weekend, right?"

“Yes, Scott told me.”

    "Okay, I know that you seem to not like dogs, right?  But Olaf is SO sweet and I know you would just LOVE him if you met him and I really, really need you to help me" she rattled on in one big breath.

“Your favor is about your dog?”

    "Could you PLEASE watch him this weekend?  PLEASE?  I'll check with Scott and make sure it's okay if he stays and he owes me so he'll have to say yes.  Just PLEASE?  I can't put him in a kennel and Jeremy is leaving Wednesday and will be gone all weekend too.  I have one friend down with pneumonia, another who's about to pop out a baby any day, three who have finals that are making them absolutely crazy and another one out of town for a family emergency.  Please, please PLEASSSE?"

“But he does not know me. He would not like to stay with me” he offered, hoping it would convince her.

    "That's why I'm going to bring him to practice tomorrow!  You're coming, right?  You two can get to know each other and then maybe I'll crash at your place Thursday night with him so he gets used to it before we leave.  It's perfect!"

“But… I do not think I can… uh walk him.”
There, that will do it.

He’s great on a leash and he can help protect you while Scott’s gone. He can’t expect you to stay indoors for 3 days, right? There’s that cute little dog park near your apartment, too.“

“Maybe Zac or Jake would like to keep him?”

    "Jake is working all day Friday and Saturday and Zac works Friday too I bet, and I just don't know him as well.  Please???  Just meet him tomorrow, okay?  You're going to love him.  Look, I don't trust many people with my puppy but I know you would take good care of him."

“You must check with Scott. It is not really up to me” he said, hoping he could convince Scott to say no. He would do anything to not have a dog in his house.

    "Okay, I'll call him now.  Think about it, okay?"

“I will. I hope you find a good place for him Kelly.” He hung up and went in search of Scott, trying to get to him before Kelly called so he could beg. Instead he heard Scott’s phone ring and stop just as he knocked on his bedroom door.

“Come in” he said. Kelly was asking him about the apartment’s dog policy and Olaf and…. Midge was frantically shaking his head ‘no.’ It took a moment for Kelly’s questioning to link up to Midge’s actions and he grinned at the poor boy practically giving himself a concussion in the doorway. “You want to bring him tomorrow?”

Midge got on his knees on the floor, his head resting near Scott’s knee. He looked up when he felt Scott’s hand run through his hair. “Please no” he mouthed silently, then bowed his head.

“Kel, he’s really afraid of them….. Yeah, that’s true….. I’m not sure…… I will……Right…… Yeah, that sounds fair…. Sure…. Okay, we’ll see you two tomorrow.”

“Sir please do not ask this of me. Please.”

“Don’t call me Sir, Midge. I didn’t say yes to the weekend, just to him being there tomorrow. There are dogs in the world, honey, and you can’t be afraid of them forever. Just get to know him. I’ll be there, she will be, Kevin and Avi too and Olaf will be on a leash and a harness, okay? He’s not going to hurt you. You haven’t called me that in awhile, why now?”

“I… I was trying to be respectful. To ask politely. I am sorry, it is a habit.”

“I know, I know but it makes me crazy. One of these days I’m going to go around calling you ‘Sir’ and see how you like it. Come up here, please. You don’t need to kneel on the floor like your sister. Shit, I’m sorry.”

“It is fine.”

“No it’s not. I get so on edge when you call me that, it just throws me for a loop. I feel like I’m missing something. Why did you say it? Why did you need to be respectful? It only comes out sometimes, when you’re scared or nervous usually. You’re scared of seeing Olaf, right? Or of me?”

“I thought it more likely my request would be granted if I was polite. It is usually true. But it is up to you, of course. I will meet this dog if I must.”

“I’m totally making decisions for you aren’t I? You’re calling me Sir because I’m acting like… Right. I’m so fucking sorry. I’ll call her, you don’t have to do it. I’ll tell her to not bring him and that you can’t watch him. Okay? That’s what you want, right?”

“I will meet him if you want but I do not want to be alone with him.”

“Sounds like a compromise to me” Scott answered, running his hands through his hair. “Hey, would you cut my hair? This scruff on the sides is driving me crazy.”

“Certainly. Do you have a buzzer razor?”

“Yep, let’s go in the bathroom and do it up!”

Chapter 77 – Bravery

“You don’t have to do this.  Really.  I am SO sorry I pushed you.”  Scott was turned as much as he could in the car, worried about Midge who was holding on to his seat for dear life.  “I can call her and ask her to take him home.  It’s fine.”

Midge had been through two showers and as many shirts and he was soaking through another one.  He swallowed, then scratched at his ear which was twitching even though it was pinned down, resulting in an annoying itch.  He didn’t say a word, simply opened the car door and walked through the parking lot towards the studio door.

Scott jumped out of the car and caught up, reaching for one of his hands and holding it in his.  “Nothing bad will happen.  Olaf is adorable and he will love you.”  He pushed the door open and suddenly it was chaos.

Olaf was barking, lunging as hard as he could against his harness and practically pulling Kelly along with him.  Avi took the leash from her and she bent down to grab him around the neck, trying to calm him down.

Midge was hiding behind Scott, fisting the back of his shirt in his hands and unknowingly practically choking Scott in the process.

Everyone was trying to calm down the crazed pup but he was absolutely determined to get to Midge and refused to be distracted from his goal.  He was up on his hind legs, pawing at the air and barking and yipping excitedly.

“Fuck” Scott muttered under his breath.  “Maybe we should go outside Midge” he said, hoping he would be heard through all the noise.

Midge looked around at everyone in the room, making sure there was no one about who didn’t know about him.  Then, he took one step to the side and hissed at Olaf.  The hair on his arms and neck was standing upright and his eyes were wide.

Olaf hushed immediately, falling onto all fours and turning his head to the side, bewildered before laying down next to Kelly.

“Stupid dog.  What was all that fuss about, huh?” Midge asked.  “You think you are tough but you are silly.”

Scott’s, along with almost everyone else’s, mouth hung open.  Then he laughed, shaking his head back and forth.  “You are something Midge, that was literally the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen.  How did you do that?”

“I do not know.  I just… I just did.  We did it as children sometimes, playing games, but I have never actually tried it on a dog.”  He slumped onto the nearby chair, exhausted by his fear.

        “God Midge, I’m so sorry!  I had no idea he would freak out like that” Kelly said, worried.

“It is fine.  I am fine and he is confused but fine too I think.”

Everyone watched as Olaf stood, then dug under a chair for his ball which had rolled underneath it before all the rucus.  When he retrieved it, he walked as far as he could towards Midge but Avi held him back.  When he realized he was stuck, he dropped the ball and it rolled towards Midge, a peace offering.

“I will not touch that slimy ball that you licked, stupid dog.”  He kicked at it with his foot, sending it back in Olaf’s direction.  Olaf nudged it with his nose, sending it rolling back to Midge’s feet.

“I guess he’s decided that he likes you” Scott said, going over to pet him.

“I suppose that is better than wanting to kill me” Midge answered, ignoring the ball.

        “I’m going to put him in his crate and then we can talk business” Kelly said.

“NO!” Midge yelped.  “I… I am sorry.  It is fine, he is a stupid dog.  It is big enough for him?”

        “He loves it and yeah, it’s huge.  It’s okay Midge, really.  And don’t worry, he won’t be able to get out.”

“I know he can not.  It is fine” he answered quietly.

Scott watched Midge’s reaction and saw the look on his face when he passed by the crate on the way to the chair Scott pointed out for him to use.  Something was up, there.  Something he probably didn’t want to know about.  The problem with things like that is once they’re in your head, it’s very hard to let go.  He decided that Midge had probably spent time in one while he was with one of his jackass masters and then tried very hard to get the image out of his mind.  “Okay guys, I told him the basics and he’d like to hear the song before he makes up his mind.  Can we run through it?”

        “Seems more than fair” Avi said.

After the first run through they started working on Midge’s part, filling in the background.  After about half an hour, Scott had an epiphany.  “He should sing the lead.”

“That’s your part Scott” Kevin said.  “I mean, do you really want to give it up?”

“I think he could slay it, totally.  Let’s try.  Do you still have the lyric sheet Avi?”

Music and papers were passed around and Midge agreed to give it a try after much urging on by Scott and Kelly. The first few runs were a bit rough as they reworked some of the harmonies go to with his higher tenor but within an hour it was shaping into one of their favorite songs they’d done.  They did a final run-through without Midge so that he could record it with his phone and practice over the weekend while they were gone.

        “So we’ll get this one recorded late next week?  We have studio Wednesday and Thursday” Avi said, checking his calendar.

“Up to you Midge, are you sure you want to do this?  It’s absolutely okay for you to say no.” Scott said, hoping he would feel safe enough to tell them what he wanted.

“I enjoy singing with you very much and would be very happy to record the song with you.”  Midge answered.  He walked by Olaf’s cage on the way out and paused.  Then, slowly, he stretched his hand out to see what the dog’s reaction would be.  He giggled when Olaf pressed his side against Midge’s fingers, asking to be scratched.  “He is not so bad…. for a dog.”

Chapter 78 – Bars

*** Trigger warning, self-harm mentioned in passing.

Late that night, long after Midge’s breathing got quiet and his tail finally stopped twitching, Scott lay in bed awake just watching him sleep.  He didn’t want to leave him, ever, but certainly not so soon after the break-in and not alone.  Midge had tried to reassure him, told him that they had moved and had an alarm so he would be safe, but Scott couldn’t shake the feeling that their time together was precious and possibly in short supply.

Perhaps it was because he loved him more and more each day, or because Midge needed him less and less, or maybe it was just love that refused to let his heart unclench and relax completely.  How someone could be so strong and brave, yet so fragile and tender he would never understand.  He thought back to him hissing at Olaf and chuckled quietly to himself.

“You are okay?” Midge asked, sleepy.

“Yes.  I didn’t mean to wake you up, go back to sleep.”

“You are not sleeping?”

“I’m okay Midgey, just thinking about you and how insanely amazing and wonderful you are.”

“This seems to be a conversation I would like to stay awake for” he joked.

“Could you be any cuter?”  Scott pulled Midge just a tad closer and tilted his lips down to kiss his hair.  “I was thinking about you hissing at Olaf, even though you were so scared.”

“He is a stupid dog, nothing more.  Now he thinks we should be friends.  As if!” he spit, furious.

“Oh God Midge, you are something else.  Don’t hold your meeting against him too much, it’s not every day he meets a Neko, I’m sure.”

“You are probably right.  I will give him another chance but I do not want to take care of him.  You said I do not need to, right?”

“Nope, Erica’s going to do it.  Her parents aren’t thrilled but it’ll be fine.  I don’t think you know her yet but she’s a hoot.  I met her a few years ago at Kelly’s birthday party.  Hey… when’s your birthday?”

“It is in the summer, but I do not know the day.  It is in July.  My mother always said we were born on the hottest day of the year.”

“Do you ever get something stuck in your head and it won’t let you go?”

“Yes, sometimes.  It is annoying.”

“Can I ask you something I shouldn’t?”

“Of course.  What is it you say?  ’I’ve never stopped you before” he said in a low voice, mocking Scott.

Scott grinned, unable to stop himself even though his thoughts were dark.  “The cage… his crate.  It bothered you, didn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“Because you’ve been in one?” he asked, hoping he was wrong.

Midge took a moment to breathe, trying to decide exactly how much to share.  “I was kept in one by my first master.  He liked to have me close by so he kept me in one by his bed.  I was too loud though, my crying, so he moved the cage to his closet.”  He paused a moment, waiting for Scott to say something but when he just held him closer, stroking his back, he continued.  “It was cold, and dark and very uncomfortable.  I…  I hated it.  He pulled me out to use me, and twice a day for the bathroom and to bathe and walk sometimes but I was mostly there.  Is that enough?”

“You can stop whenever you want.  And you can tell me anything you want.  If you want to get it out, or just… if it helps to say the words, I’ll always listen.  I’m so sorry little one.”

“I am fine now.  I have your nook and a bed and blankets.  Life is very good right now.  Thank you for your kindness.”

“I’d give you anything, Midge.  You deserve it, after… after what you’ve been through.  I don’t know how to even begin to process how anyone could treat you that way, or how you survived.  I would be, I don’t know, a broken shell just cringing and crying on the floor.  I probably would have slit my wrists–”

“No” Midge interrupted.  “Do not say those things.  I do not want to think of you so sad.”

“But you’re amazing and thriving.  You faced down a dog today!  And you’re going to sing with us.  And you’re reading, aren’t you? I saw you with the lyric sheets today even though you knew most of the words already but it helped, didn’t it? I know it’s not easy yet but you’re doing so well.  You’re getting sassy and telling me how you feel and you’re just… I am in awe of you.”

“I feel better than I have in a very long time.  Maybe since I was old enough to understand the world, or at least mine.  I still do not understand yours well.  It is late and you should be sleeping.  This I am sure of.”

“I never want to lose you.  I never want you to go.  I want you right here, with me, always.  Okay?  Will you stay?  Will you be mine because I want to be yours.”

“You are sweet and very sappy.  I am yours, Scott and will be as long as you desire.  Now get some sleep before you must go tomorrow.  If you sleep now we will have time for fun and breakfast in the morning.”

“There’s no way I’m leaving you to eat breakfast.  Grrr”

“Goodnight Scott” he giggled.

Chapter 79 – Fire

Midge uncurled from the floor and stretched his arms languidly over his head.  The coffee table was strewn with papers, pencils and pastels.  Marley sat on the couch behind him, watching, and his empty milk glass sat next to him on the floor.  He glanced at the clock and stared a moment.  How can it be 9:13 already?   His stomach growled and he placed his hand over it.   Okay okay we will eat.

He opened the refrigerator and peered inside, his eyes instantly falling on the package of bacon.  Yumsticks!   He grabbed it, a block of cheese, and then the large skillet and started it heating.  He arranged as many pieces of bacon as he could possibly fit in the pan, even pressing them up the sides, and put the rest away for tomorrow.

He stood watching the bacon sizzle while he nibbled on the cheese for a few minutes before his eyes wandered back towards his stack of papers.  He had done 3, two of which he would put on Etsy after he had dinner.  The other was a gift for Zac at Christmas, who he knew would appreciate it since he painted and also drew sometimes for work.  It seemed the least he could do after he let him stay for Thanksgiving and then found Marley and brought her home.

He went over to spread out the two he wanted to sell so he could look at them again.  Then he had an idea and rummaged through Scott’s desk for the tape and attached them to the walls carefully. Yes, they look very nice.  I like them.

His nose caught the smell of smoke and he ran to the kitchen, grabbing the pan of bacon and tossing it in the sink and turning on the water.  He jumped back when it sputtered and sizzled, smoke and steam billowing into the air.

The smoke alarm blared almost immediately, completely deafening Midge who threw his hands up to cover his ears.  He ran into his room and closed the door, jumping under his covers and putting a pillow over his head to help lessen the onslaught of noise.

A few minutes later he realized that it wasn’t going to go off on his own but he remembered that their house alarm had a fire alarm in it as well, so he crawled out of his room and went to the panel, trying to decide how to stop all the lights from flashing.

Scott had shown him what to push to leave the house, and then when he came back inside but he hadn’t told him what to do now.  He tried putting in the code and telling it that he was home, but it didn’t work.  What does it want?  Make it stop!   He was still pushing random buttons when there was a loud knock on the front door.       

        “Fire Department!  Open the door.”

He panicked, absolutely confused.  He had promised to not open up for anyone he didn’t know, but the Fire Department were not normal people, they were here to help.  When they started banging again and threatening to knock down the door, he opened it.

“I am so sorry.  It is fine.  I only burnt my dinner.”

        “Why didn’t you turn off the alarm?” the man asked, reaching over and pressing the silencer.

Midge could barely catch his breath.  The man was HUGE and wearing a ton of equipment and just looked generally scary.  “I do not know how.  I am sorry.”

        “Do you live here?”

“I… yes but not for very long.  I did not learn the alarm yet.”

        “Kid, read the damn manual.  We don’t have time to be running around every time somebody burns toast, alright?”  He reached over and pushed a few more buttons on the panel.  “Put in your code.”

Midge entered it and the alarm finally stopped flashing.  “Thank you.  Yes, I will read it.  I am sorry for the trouble.”  He didn’t dare breathe until they turned and headed down the hallway.  He closed the door and grabbed Marley from her spot on the couch before jumping into Scott’s bed. I am never coming out.  I am never coming out.

He tried to think of happy things, to let his mind go somewhere safe and calm but his usual comforts weren’t working.  He cuddled closer to Marley and wondered where she really was and if she was safe and happy.  Maybe she is thinking of me, too.

Chapter 80 – Alarm

Scott slumped onto the counter in the dressing room and opened his bottle of water, downing half of it in one long go.

    "That was amazing guys" Kevin said, pulling out a chair.

    "I can not WAIT to get back to the hotel, I want to put on my slippers and order room service" Kelly declared, bending down to unstrap her heels.

“I could literally eat anything and everything right now.” Scott heard the beep from his phone and rolled his eyes towards Avi, who was sitting next to it. “Give you a million dollars to throw that over here.”

    "Better than the kiss you offered me last time.  Deal."  He tossed it to Scott and then returned to packing things into his bag.

“No, no, no” he muttered under his breath, listening to his voice mails from the security company. He immediately dialed Midge’s phone, forcing himself to breathe as it rang and then went to voice mail.

    "What is it Scottland?" Kelly asked, noticing how pale he was.

“The fire alarm went off at the apartment and didn’t get turned off for like half an hour. Now I can’t get ahold of Midge.” He chewed on his lip, then put his fingers against his lips and blew on them. “I’ll try him again.”

    Kelly watched and knew without asking that he hadn't answered.  "Maybe he called Zac?"

“YES!” Scott hopped down and called Zac, pacing the floor while we waited.

    "Hey" Zac answered, the noise behind him making him hard to hear.

“Did Midge call you? Have you checked on him?”

    "Came here right after dinner, haven't heard from him.  Why?"

“I need you to go over there. Now. Please?” Scott asked.

    "I'm in the middle of a date.  It's going to have to wait."

“NO! They sent the fire department. Zac, Midge and the fire department can NOT be a good mix. What if they arrested him or something, or took him? He’s not answering his phone. I’m in fucking Chicago, I can’t get there.”

    "Jesus, calm down.  Fine, I'll go over but I'm bringing Lee with me."

“I don’t care if you take Jesus, just go, please. Wait, no, what if his ears are out? You have to go alone.”

    "The amount you owe me is now about the size of the national debt and you want me to what, make Lee wait in the car or something while I go check on my ex's boyfriend?  He's going to think I'm crazy."

“You ARE. He may as well find out now. Seriously Zac, I NEED you to… Please?” he asked, his voice cracking.

    "Fine.  I'll call you when I get there.  I swear..."

It took Scott a moment to realize he’d hung up mid-sentence but once he did he tried Midge one more time.

    "Van is waiting for us Scott, let's go." Avi said.

“I have to get—”

    "I got your bag hon, you're all good" Kelly said, handing it him.  "Come on"

---

    "I'm really sorry about this Lee, it'll only take a minute."

“No worries, I’m flexible.”

    Zac looked over and grinned.  "Is that so?"

“You have NO idea but I’m more than happy to show you later.”

    "That sounds like a really, really good plan.  Are you sure you don't mind waiting?  I'll be as quick as possible."

“I’m fine, go ahead.”

    Zac flew up the stairs two at a time and knocked on their apartment door.  He gave Midge about two seconds to answer before he knocked one more time, loudly.  "Midge, it's me, I'm coming in."  He put the extra key Scott had given him in the lock and walked in just as Midge walked out of Scott's room. 

“What are you doing here? Is something wrong? Is Scott hurt?”

    "No, no, he's fine.  He's been trying to call you."

“Oh, my phone is in my bed and it is on vibrate. I am so sorry, I did not hear it.”

    "What did you burn?" he asked, his nose twitching.

“Yum…bacon. I burned the bacon by accident.”

    "But you're okay?"

“I am fine.”

    "Okay, then I am gone.  Call Scott right now, okay?"

“Oh, okay, I will. You do not want to stay and visit?”

    "I can't, I'm sorry.  I'm on a date.  I'll call you tomorrow though and I'll stop in, depending on when Lee leaves."

“Leeleaves?” Midge asked, confused.

    "Lee, his name is Lee.  When he leaves. Nevermind, it doesn't matter.  Call Scott, alright?"

“Is he cute?”

    "He's... yeah, he's very cute.  Hands off, you got it?" Zac smiled and then closed the door behind him "Don't forget to set the alarm" he said through the door just as a woman came out of the apartment across from them.  "I meant him, but uh, you should set yours too Miss.  Can't be too careful."  He shook his head and tried to wipe the blush from his cheeks as he headed back to Lee.

“I am sorry” Midge said as soon as Scott picked up the phone.

“Are you okay?”

“I am fine. I did not mean to cause trouble, I am sorry.”

“Did the fire department come over?”

“Yes. He yelled at me for not knowing how to turn the alarm off. I was scared when he asked if I lived here, I did not want to have to leave.”

“I was so fucking worried when I heard the messages. God, in my head the whole city was burning and you were in jail. I was a mess.”

“I did not know they would call you. It did not interrupt your show?”

“No, no, I didn’t have my phone with me. It’s late there, are you heading to bed?”

“Yes, I was almost asleep when Zac came. Is it okay if I sleep in your bed?”

“Absolutely.”

“Will Kelly sleep in your bed?” he asked, jealous.

“No, no Midge. We have our own beds. You are the only one I want in my bed, okay?”

“That is nice.”

“Get some sleep and please don’t burn the place down before I get home, alright?”

“I will not. It is less than two days, I do not think I will have any more trouble.”

“I hope not. I’ll call you tomorrow love. Night night.”

Chapter 81 – Sale

Midge pretended for the first two hours that Scott was still sleeping.  He got himself a glass of milk like usual and then decided that coffee would be safe, so he had a glass of hypermilk as well.  He pulled a chair up to the window and peered out while he sipped.  The view was not as nice from here as at the old apartment, but it was safer.  He missed watching his park though.

Four hours later he admitted to himself that he was bored.  He’d sat on the balcony and read a book, watched a cartoon and cleaned up the kitchen from last night’s disaster.  He didn’t want to draw, and even the computer Scott had left behind for him held little interest.

What he wanted to do more than anything was to go outside.  It was sunny and the perfect temperature outside so that he could bundle up enough to cover and not be hot.  How wonderful would it be to go to his park and draw?  He could try to find his friend and help her, and explore as well. But I can not .  He knew it was absolutely forbidden.  Scott had asked him not to leave the apartment at all if it wasn’t necessary unless he was with Zac.

Zac said he would call him today but it was still only lunchtime.  His stomach rumbled and he went to the kitchen but refused to cook anything.  Even the microwave seemed a bit too much to risk.  He made himself a sandwich and then ate just the meat and cheese out of it before nibbling on his chips.  He grabbed the Ipad and turned on some EDM since it wouldn’t bother Scott and was halfway through the first song when his phone rang.

“Hello Zac.”

        “Hey buddy, what’s up?  Set off any alarms yet?”

“No.  I did not cook.  I will be careful” he said sadly.

        “I’m sorry Midge, I was just joking, alright?  It’s all good.  So, want to get out of there for awhile?  We could do dinner tonight, or I remember Scott saying you love the movies.”

“I would love to spend some time outside.  Could we walk to dinner?”

        “Honestly, Midge, I will do absolutely anything you want to do today.  I am so FUCKING great that I don’t care.  About anything.  At all.  So whatever” he cackled.

“Did you have a very good date with the cute Lee?”

        “Hells yes.  And a very good night.  And morning.”

“You like him very much?  I am glad.”

        “He’s smart, and funny, and really sweet.  Only huge downside is that he’s so far in the closet, he’s behind the Christmas decorations.”

“Why is he in your closet?  Is he hiding?”

        “Not MY closet, uh, no one knows he’s gay.  Is that better?  NO ONE.   So I don’t know if that’s going to work long-term” he answered thoughtfully.  “You’re ruining my high little guy.  So, you want to enjoy this lovely weather?”

“l would.  But I know you will want to be with Lee and that is okay.”

        “Can’t see him until Monday after work, he’s gotta to pretend to be straight for awhile, or something like that.  I’m all yours.  Anything you want.  I’ll head over and we can figure it out, alright?”

“Thank you so much.  I will be ready.”  He quickly cleaned up the coffee table, putting Zac’s picture away so he would not see it.  He started to shut down the computer and saw that he had a message so he checked his email account. A payment notice?  From Etsy?  I sold one!! He clicked the link to see which one had sold before turning it off, a huge smile on his face.

He was still grinning a moment later when he heard Zac coming up the stairs.  He waited until he knocked though, he had learned that it made people wonder when he opened doors too early.  “Hi!”

        “Hey, how are you?” Zac said, returning Midge’s smile.

“I sold one!  I am so happy.”

        “Sold a what?”

“My drawings.  A woman in Oregon has bought one of my drawings.  The one of the buildings, the street that turns into a tree.  Let me show you.”  He grabbed Zac’s hand and practically pulled him into his room and into his closet.  “This one!”  he held it up carefully.

        “Wow, that’s amazing.  The perspective change makes it really, really interesting.  She’s a lucky lady to have this.”

“Thank you!  I will mail it to her on Monday and hope she likes it.”

        “I have no doubt.  So, where to?  Daylight is wasting if you want to be outside.”

“Anywhere, can we take a walk?  I like to explore” he said, slipping into his shoes.  “I would like to buy Scott a Christmas present with my new money.  Do you think it is okay to buy him one?  I would not want him to feel that he has to get me one but he has done so much for me that I would like to.”

        “I think he’d love one, but don’t spend too much or he’ll feel bad.  He’d probably rather have a picture, especially since the others were destroyed.”

“The ones on the wall?  That is why I did not see them in the things.  It was… they were special.”

        “I know, he was really upset about it.  The rest of the damage didn’t bother him too much but he stared at them that morning for awhile.  He tried to pick them up, talked about taping them or keeping them even if they were ruined but they were just hopeless.  Could you make him another for Christmas?  He’d love that more than anything you could buy him, honestly.”

“I will, yes, I will draw him a picture.  But I..d like to buy him something too.  Can we go in here?” he asked, looking in the window.  “There are so many different stores.”

        “You can say that again.  I’m sure Kelly or Scott would be happy to show you ALL of them one of these days.”

Midge wandered through the aisles, looking at everything.  “I have no idea what he would like.”

        “I’ll take you out another day so give it some thought.  There’s tons of stuff online too, you can look there and just order whatever you want.”

“Thank you so much Zac, you are very kind to me.  Now, you would like some dinner?  Did you work up an appetite this morning?”

        “Starving Midge, I’m starving and yes, I definitely earned it.  Let’s go.”

Chapter 82 – Porn

“And set the alarm.” Zac yelled through the door on his way out.

Midge grinned and did so, glad to have had a break from the apartment for a few hours.  He wasn’t quite ready for bed yet though, and Scott hadn’t called, so he grabbed his phone, Marley and the Ipad and curled up on the couch with every pillow he could grab and both blankets.

Zac had told him a few places online that he could look for something that Scott might like so he pulled one up.  All he had to do was find the perfect thing and Zac would order it for him the next time they were together.

Nothing seemed right though, there was nothing good enough for his Scott.  He needed something to try to show him how much he appreciated everything he’d done.  He decided to check the next site and typed it in, trying to remember the trick letter Zac had told him.

What popped up on his screen wasn’t a store for hats though, it was a naked woman fondling herself.  He clicked the ‘X’ on the screen but it didn’t close, instead another window opened up on top of it, this one with moaning and groaning while a man and a woman had sex.  Oh no oh god uh….

He clicked the ‘X’ again but a tiny box asking him if he wanted to close it came up.  YES! It didn’t work though, it only closed that box and he was left with the moaning and first woman as well.  He reached out with one hand and pushed Marley under the blankets so she wouldn’t see.

He put the tablet face down on the couch beside him but his curiosity won out once he realized he was alone and wouldn’t be in trouble.  He picked it back up and watched the clip, fascinated.  He had been taught before he was sold what would be expected of him, and once they knew he was going to a man he had been trained some before leaving home.  He’d never had any experience with women though since his masters had all preferred only men.

He clicked on another link to the side and viewed a series of pictures, each more detailed than the last.  When his phone rang he picked it up without his eyes ever leaving the screen.

“Hey sweetheart, how are you?” Scott asked.

“I am fine.  I am…oh, fine.  Sorry.”

“Midge, am I interrupting something over there?”

“No, no, of course not.  I am… there is something on the computer.  I can not make it disappear.”

“You’re watching porn on the Ipad?  Oh god that’s literally the funniest thing I’ve ever heard.  I’m glad Kelly’s not here, she’d be throwing things at me.  I am so red!”

“I have put it down.  I would rather talk to you than watch.”

“Take notes and we’ll try it out when I get home.”

“It will not work, I am not a woman.”

“Ewwwwwwwwwww you’re watching GIRLS???” he said, then cleared his throat.  “Mood ruined.”

“Why?  You only like boys, right?  And so you do not like to even watch girls?”

“Uh, yeah.  Men all the way.  Wait, do YOU like girls?  Holy shit, are you bi?  Or wait, are you even gay?   I mean at all?  I can’t believe I’m asking you that, I mean, you know.  But….you said you’d been trained, right?  Did you pick?  How does that work?  I sound like a moron, I can’t talk.”

“That is a lot of questions.  I do not think I like girls but I have never tried so I do not know for sure.  I like you, that I know.”

“God, I was scared you were straight and just doing what was expected.”  He let out a long breath.  “Thank God.  I was worried for a minute.”

“That could be true, I do not know.  No one has asked me before.”

“So did you pick if you went to a man, the first time, I mean, you know, him?”

“No, I had no say.  I was small though, and not athletic or strong so it was likely I would be taken by a man.  Women sometimes choose the strong boys but usually they go to fighting rings.  I was lucky that I was not sent there, or worse.”

“So you’re saying that you, I don’t know how to say this, that you never really figured out for yourself who you’re attracted to?  I mean, you were with a man so that’s what you did, but what if you’re straight?  How is it possible that I literally know NOTHING about you?”

“I enjoy being with you and having fun.  I think you are beautiful.”

“And Kelly?  Or the lady on the screen?  Do you want to have fun with them?”

“Of course not, I am yours.”

“But if you weren’t Midge…. are you interested?”

“Maybe I am curious, but nothing more.  I want to be with you.”

“I wish I was home.”

“Me too my Scott.  You will come home tomorrow afternoon?”

“Yep.  Good thing too because the weather’s supposed to get bad.  I’ll be home before then though, don’t worry.”

“Am I in trouble for watching?  I did not mean to turn it on, it was an accident.”

“Of course not.  Imagining you getting all hot and bothered isn’t helping me out though, I gotta tell you.  I should go to bed but I think I”m going to need a shower first.“

“Oh, you mean, I see.  Call me after if you still need more help, maybe I can be of service.”

*** *** And yes, there WILL be an 82 and a half over in the Excerpts book but I’m not sure when it’ll go up.  Sometime today, most likely :)

How much do you love me?  Part 82 and a half is

posted and it is HOT.  Don’t worry though, it’s not crucial to the story so feel free to skip, as always :)

Chapter 83 – Welcome

Midge glanced at the clock. 11:49. He carefully gathered Scott’s two drawings and placed them inside a book he had hidden in his closet. One was almost finished, the other just started. He knew they would be perfect though, he just had to make the time to work on them while Scott was at practice this week.

He cleaned the kitchen and wiped down the counters, then picked up the few things he’d left laying around the living area. After running the vacuum he snuggled up on the couch and found a cartoon to help pass the time. The next thing he knew there was a hand gently running down his cheek as he opened his eyes to his grinning Scott.

“Did you have a good nap?” he asked, straddling Midge and hovering over him.

“I… yes. I did not mean to fall asleep” he answered, groggy.

“I can’t believe you didn’t hear me come in but you’re so cute asleep. I shouldn’t have woken you up but I missed you.” Scott leaned down gently until their lips came together, then kissed him hungrily. “So much.” Once he had sat back and moved to sit where Midge pulled his legs up, he put his arm over the couch and beckoned him over.

Midge planned on leaning daintily on his shoulder but ended up on his lap with his arms thrown around his neck. “I am glad you are home.”

Scott pulled him tight, breathing him in and nuzzling his hair. “Missed you.”

“I hated sleeping without you.”

“Kelly snores.”

“She does not! No! Really?” he asked, eyes wide and mischievous.

“No, she doesn’t actually snore, but it still sucks. Then you told me you were watching porn of girls and when she came back to the room it was all I could think of. I’m scarred for life. I don’t know how I’ll go on.”

“You are still kidding.” Midge asked, wanting confirmation.

“I barely said 6 words to her on the plane, she probably thinks I’m mad. But yeah, I’m sure I”ll get over it. I wasn’t kidding about missing you though, that is 1000% true.“

“I am glad.”

“You have to tell me all about the fire later, I want to know what happened.” He saw Midge’s face fall and caressed his cheek. “I’m not blaming you, I’m just being a control freak and I’m worried. Besides, I need to know if the fireman was cuter than me.”

“He was NOT. He was rather rude and upset with me, but it was my fault. But no, he was not cute at all. Zac says his Lee is cute, is he?”

“Haven’t met him but Zac seems more than a little interested.”

“He likes him very much but he is… um, hiding he is gay until Christmas, or something like that.”

“That’s one hell of a present. ‘Hey mom, Merry Christmas. I got you a movie of me and my boyfriend having sex.’ Sorry, dirty mind after you last night.”

“You should be clean after all that time in the shower.”

“Oh GOD Midge, you are funny” he said, laughing. “I love your sense of humor.”

“And I love you. It is okay to say it?”

Scott had a hard time breathing for a few seconds but once he recovered he grinned from ear to ear. “Oh yeah. Love you too little one.”

“I can not breathe very much” Midge muttered a few minutes later, squished into Scott’s chest.

“Oh, sorry!” He relaxed his arms and let Midge adjust. “Sorry. I just… I don’t know.”

“Need to be closer?” he asked, wiggling his eyebrows.

“You!!! I just got home!”

“Yes you did. We have been over this, I am very glad. Perhaps we can move on?”

“I actually can’t, I promised to call my mom at 2 and work out Christmas plans which means I need to be completely unflustered in six minutes. So be good.”

“Alright.” Midge climbed down from his lap and sat serenely on the couch a foot away. “I want to say, if it is okay, that I understand if I am not invited or if it does not work well for me to go and meet your family.”

“Midge—”

“No, please? I do not mean to interrupt but, is it okay?”

“Go ahead. I want you to say whatever’s on your mind.”

“I do not expect to go, and it was very nice of you to say and make me feel wanted, but I know it is hard. It is far away and you are busy and I… well I am not a real person.”

“What do you mean you’re not real?”

“You said it, that… that if I had papers and such that I would be real. I do not know what it means that I am not, but I know that I am not, that I am weird. I talk oddly and do not always know how to act with humans. I just want to say that it is okay.”

“I didn’t mean it like that! That you were less, or something, just that you would be legal. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean that how it sounds. I want you to come and I have been working REALLY hard to make it happen. I just need to work a few things out with mom because, well, I’ve never brought anyone home before and I don’t know if she’ll be okay with us sharing my room. I just need to talk to her, okay?”

“Alright Scott. Whatever you… whatever happens is fine with me.”

“Good thing my phone still works. Okay, wish me luck.”

Chapter 84 – Monday

Midge woke to the sound of rain tapping against his window and a sleeping Scott gripping his wrist.  He smiled, content.  How amazing my life is.   He’d spent an anxious hour last night as Scott talked to his mother after finally getting ahold of her that evening.  Midge had thought she was upset and didn’t want to talk because of him but once Scott checked his texts he found out she had switched shifts at the hospital and would call him afterwards.

They spent the afternoon in other ways, having fun and finally unpacking a few more boxes and organizing the kitchen a bit.  Scott had made dinner and showed Midge how to turn off the alarm if it happened to go off again.  They’d put the dots up on the wall, Midge giddy at how bright they were.  Finally, after dinner, Scott’s mother had called.

He’d tried to read Scott’s face as he asked about bringing him but it had been amazingly flat.  Only near the end had he smiled, his jaw relaxing and eyes brightening.  He thought then that she had probably said yes, although he still felt bad for being so much trouble.  Afterwards they talked about him driving down, Scott trying to explain why they wouldn’t fly.

When Scott finally finished his call he’d said they were all set, that it would take two days but he would drive them down and if all went well and they got papers, they would fly back.  If not, the rental car would be extended and they’d leave a day early.  Through it all, even though it would be a huge amount of trouble, Scott only seemed happy and excited.

And now he was sleeping, curled on his side with one hand wrapped around Midge’s wrist as if he didn’t want him to go.  “Morning” Scott murmured, still sleepy.  “You wake?”  He moved his hand from his wrist and slipped it over Midge’s chest, wrapping him up.

“Good morning.  Yes.  I am awake.  Did you sleep well?”

“Mmhmm better ’an hotel.  You warm.”

“You are cute when you are sleepy.  It is raining.”

“Storm coming, get bad later.  Glad home.”

“Me too, I do not like thunder and storms.  I hope it does not get loud.”

“Found you in one.  Was raining that day.”

“Yes.”  He thought back to how he had shivered in the alley, hungry but too afraid to venture out until it was darker.  “You saved me.”

“Think you saved me too” he answered, finally a bit more awake.  “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

“If it is about fun or coffee, I am.  Also the trip to Texas.”

“I was thinking about coffee but those are all nice things to think about.  Very nice.  You are a little minx, aren’t you?  Thirsty boy.”

“It is why Nekos are such good… I do not know the word you would like me to use.  I know some of them bother you.  It is why we are so content at our …. jobs?  That is a good word?  I did not know I would ever want but I enjoy fun with you so I want more.”

“You’re telling me that Nekos are just generally horny?”

“Um, yes.”

Scott didn’t know what to say to that so he chewed on his lip while he tried not to smile too much.  “I guess I can deal with that.  I mean, it’s not exactly a problem.  Having you flirt with me, I mean.”

“You will let me know if I am too forward?  It is always your choice.  Do you not want me to speak of it?”

“No, no , no, you can flirt and suggest and drive me crazy all you want.  Maybe not so much when we’re with my parents, okay?” he asked, grinning.

“Yes, I will behave.”

“Want to go to Starbucks with me?  You can try something new.  I know you don’t like the rain so I’ll go if you want, but you’ve been home a lot and it’s only going to get worse.”

Midge sighed, not exactly loving either option.  “I would rather be with you so I will go.  The rain will not hurt me and I will come back home and be warm.”

“I’m happy to warm you up when we get back.  For now though, we’re going to need pants.”

“In that case I change my mind” Midge joked, getting up and wandering to his closet.

“See you in a few silly boy.”  Scott wandered into his room to get changed and grab his wallet and a hat for his insanely squashed hair.

---

Midge stripped as soon as they walked back in the door, balancing his caramel macchiato in one hand and using his tail to help lift his shirt over his head, then push down his pants.  “It is COLD and windy.  But my drink is amazing.”

“Thought you’d like that.  I’m going to get dry clothes and snuggle on the couch – want to join me?”

“More than anything.  I do not need clothes though, do I?  I will use a blanket.”  He jumped onto the couch and crawled under a blanket, still holding his drink.

Scott couldn’t see anything except the tip of his tail poking out as the shape under the blanket shifted into a sitting position.  “You won’t be able to see like that, you know.”

“But you will be here to warm me then, so it is okay.”

It is so much more than okay, little one.

Chapter 85 – Lee

“The food is coming” Midge said, sitting up to let Scott off the couch.  “It smells so good.”

“Thanks hon, I’ll get it.  Can you grab plates?”  Scott went to the door and opened it a moment before the delivery guy knocked.  He took the huge bag of Chinese and paid, giving him a good tip for coming out in the downpour.

        “Thanks so much.  You guys still have power eh?  Hoping mine is on when I get home.”

He shut the door just as a huge boom of thunder cracked right over their building.  “Midge?” he asked, putting the bag down on the table he had just scurried under.

“I hate it.”

“I know, but it won’t hurt you.  I’m sorry you’re scared though.  Come back out?”

“I am being stupid, I know.  Thank you for not laughing or yelling at me.”

“Never.  But hon, there is a roof over our heads, the table’s not keeping you dry or anything.  Want to eat on the couch?  We can snuggle that way and finish the movie.”

Midge peered out from around the seat of a chair.  “That would be okay, I think.  I will get Marley.”  Quick as a flash he pounced on his bed and grabbed her, then landed on the couch and pulled the blanket up.  “Oh, I am so sorry!” He started to get up and help Scott carry things.

“No, I’ve got it.  It’s all good.  Sit, sit.”  He carried the bag and plates, putting them on the coffee table “Here’s your shrimp.”

Midge took the container from Scott and dipped his fork in, eating from the container as Scott filled his plate.  “You do not want any of this, right?”

“No, and good thing too” he said, rolling his eyes.  “I have plenty.”  His phone rang and he considered ignoring it but decided to talk to Zac.  “Hey”

        “Hey, any chance you have power and food?”.

“Actually, I have both of those things.  I take it you don’t?”

        “Nope.  Lee’s here and we can’t go to his place but he doesn’t want to go out so he’s going to leave unless… fuck it, can we come over?”

“Sure.  I owe you and  I’ve been wanting to meet Lee.  Midge says he’s cute.”

        “He is.  Okay, we’ll bring Starbucks as payment if I can find one that’s open, deal?”

“No problem.  See you soon.”  He shoved another bite in his mouth before noticing that Midge was looking at him expectantly.  “Sorry” he said, mouth still half full.

“I can wait.”

“Zac and Lee are coming over because his power’s out.  They’re going to try to bring coffee.”

“I hope our power does not go out.”  Midge looked out the window but all he could see was the water rushing down the glass and flashes of light.  “It is lightning.”

“Doesn’t look like it’s going to stop anytime soon, either.  Let me check the weather.”  He pulled out his phone.  “Supposed to stop storming early morning and just rain tomorrow, off and on.”  He turned the movie back on and went back to his dinner.

“She only likes the girl because she bewitched her that everyone would like her.”

“Oh, Malificent.  Yeah, she doesn’t seem to get that, though.”

“So she is still evil, even though she is acting nice.” he said thoughtfully.

“I hadn’t thought of it that way.”

“They are here.”

Scott got up and walked to the door, letting in Zac and Lee.  “Hey, welcome.”

        “Scott, this is Lee.   Lee, Scott and….” Zac grabbed Lee by the shoulders and turned him to the side, his eyes shooting daggers at Scott.

“Zac?”

        “Midge needs to uh, get dressed.  Or, yeah.”

“Oh I am so sorry!” Midge said, pulling his hoodie up to hide his ears.  I will be right back.“  He rushed into his bathroom to take care of things while Scott laughed at the look Lee was giving Zac.

“Sorry about that.  It’s nice to meet you Lee, come on in.”

        “Any chance you’re going to share some dinner?  I am STARVING” Zac asked.

“Absolutely, here are plates.”  Scott got Lee a glass of water and took the coffee from him, grabbing his and putting Midge’s on the coffee table.  “Must have worked out today.”

        “I did.  Forgot my damn headphones and had to go back, but I did it.  Poor Lee had to work all day.”

        “Unfortunately.  Some of us aren’t lucky enough to have flexible schedules” he answered as Midge came back and sat down with them.

“Midge, this is Lee” Scott said.  “What do you do?”

        “I’m a lawyer, corporate law.  It’s boring as hell but, eh, what can you do?  Family tradition.  What do you guys do?”

“I’m in music, a little a capella group.  We do okay.  Midge is about to take the art world by storm.  He’s amazing.”

        “That’s really cool.  Must be nice to do something you’re really passionate about.” Lee said, nibbling on his dinner.

“So do you work with your dad or something?  Have your name in the title of the law firm?” Scott asked.

        “Yeah, actually I do.  Although now it’s ‘Kilmer, Grande,  Johnson and Kilmer’ which is about the funniest thing I’ve ever heard although none of the old guys seem to get the joke.”

        “Tell them what Johnson was doing in the meeting today.  He texted me and I almost DIED.” Zac said, turning pink.

        “He kept saying ‘Now gentlemen, we what we need now is a new direction’ but ALL I could hear was ‘what we need is a nude erection’.  I had to excuse myself and go in the freaking break room to laugh my ass off.  I will never be able to hear those two words without losing it.”

“OH GOD I would have literally DIED” Scott said, holding his stomach.  “Nude erection.  Hell, maybe that’s what he meant.  Freudian slip or something.”

        “I wish” said Lee, grinning.  “They’re so straight-laced they didn’t even get it.  They are oblivious.”

Scott grabbed his coffee and leaned back on the couch just as the lights went out.  “Shit.”

“NO!” Midge exlaimed.

“It’s okay.  Where’s your phone?”  He took it from Midge and turned the light on, putting it on the couch between them.  “Well, it was nice while it lasted.”

        Zac turned his on as well after unplugging it from the charger he had been borrowing.  “Glad I charged it up a little.  Want us to head out?”

“No need, it’s up to you.  We could always play a game.”

“A game?!  That sounds like fun” Midge said, momentarily distracted.

Chapter 86 – Games

*** PG-13

“I guess it’s up to Lee” Zac said.

    "No pressure, right?"  Everyone gasped as the lights flickered, then came back on.  "I guess we're staying" Lee said.

“Yay. Zac was right, you are very cute.” Midge said, rubbing his hands together. “What can we play?”

    "Cards against Humanity!" Zac said.

“I have it but… have you seen the games Midge?” Scott asked. “I have no idea if they’re unpacked yet, or where they got to.”

“I have not, but we still have many boxes to open. I will look for it if you would like” he answered.

“We could play truth or dare and get to know Lee better” Scott smirked.

    "Oooh, I am SO in with that." Zac said, rubbing his knee.

    "I'm outnumbered, it appears.  What about you Midge, want to be on my side on this one?"

“I will do whatever Scott likes.”

    "Yeah, that's never going to work Lee, they're freaky like that.  I want liquor." Zac got up and walked into the kitchen.  "Orders!!???"  Soon he came back into the living room with drinks for everyone.  "Surprised you're going to let him drink Scott."

“One. I said one. Okay Lee, it’s only fair that you get to go first.”

    "Alright Scott, truth or dare?"

“Truth.”

    "Are you two a dom/sub thing, er, relationship?  Or am I reading too much into it?  And if so, can I pick your brain later?"

“Is that what it looks like?” Scott asked.

    "Yep."

“It’s uh, more complicated than that.” Scott said at the exact same time Midge said “Yes.”

    "Got it.  Complicated.  Your turn Scott."  Lee took a sip of his drink and grinned at Midge.

“Lee, truth or dare?”

    "Truth" Lee said, leaning back against Zac.

“What’s with coming out at Christmas?” Scott asked.

    Zac threw his head back and laughed while Lee just looked at him perplexed.  "I don't know?"

    "Oh god, the decorations!" Zac said.  "That's a fucked up game of telephone.  I uh, I told Midge that you were so far in the closet you were behind the Christmas decorations.  I didn't say you were coming out at Christmas.  Oh that's priceless."

“That makes a LOT more sense” Scott said. “So why aren’t you out? Work? Family? Not sure?”

    "Oh he's sure" said Zac, playfully.

    "I... it was family, now it's mostly work.  It's just easier.  My family would absolutely throw me out and I'd like another year or two of work experience and money in the bank before I'm on my own.  Zac, truth or dare?"

    "Oooh, I don't know Lee.  A dare could be fun, but uh, truth?"

    "Who was your last boyfriend and how long did it last?"

    "Um, that guy right there" he answered, pointing at Scott.  "I guess it was about a year off and on, maybe a little longer.  I dated after him, but nothing serious until you."

    "I like the sound of that but wow, way to put my foot in it.  But you get along apparently?" Lee asked.

    "Yeah, we're friends.  No worries, it's fine.  It is SO my turn.  Hmmmmm.... Midge!"

“Yes?”

    "Truth or dare?"

“I do not know. There are things I should not say or do. I will choose dare?” he asked, looking at Scott.

    "No worries little guy.  Um, didn't expect dare.  Let me think."  He downed the rest of his drink and got up, taking Lee's and Midge's with him and getting refills.  "Midge, your dare is to drink this as fast as you can."

“Zac!” Scott swore.

    He just shrugged. "It's a fairly tame bet, Scottie.  And trust me, you'll thank me later."

“Fine. Go ahead Midge” he grumbled.

Midge drank it down quickly, then sat the cup back on the table. “They are very good. Now I must ask someone?”

    "Yep."

“Lee, truth or dare?”

    "Dare."

“I would like you to kiss Zac. I want to see.”

    "Little perv" he chuckled.  "I'd be happy to."  He turned and threw his hands around Zac's neck, kissing him passionately.

    "Nice job Midge" Zac sighed.  "Very nice.  I owe you."

“It is your turn Lee.”

    "Midge, truth or dare?"

“Truth?”

    "Have you ever had a three or foursome?"

“You mean sex?” he asked hesitantly.

“No, no, don’t, you don’t have to answer that Midge” Scott said.

“But it is a game. It is okay to answer? I have done many more, at a party.”

    "Like a full out orgy?" Lee asked, eyes wide.

“Close to that, yes, I think.”

    "I am SO jealous, you have no idea." Lee said, his eyes drifting.

    "You are going to be the death of me" Zac said, grinning.  "I'm really looking forward to it."

Midge chuckled. “Scott, truth or dare?”

“Oooh, getting brave aren’t we? Dare.”

“A dare? And I can choose anything? Zac, what should I do?”

    "Uh, hmmmmmm, no idea.  Personally I'd make him rub my back but I'll try to talk Lee into it later.  What do you think Lee?"

    "I'm kinky and a little drunk, you shouldn't ask me."

“You are like me, it does not take many. I want a kiss.” He turned and climbed onto Scott’s lap and tilted his face up until he felt Scott claim him.

    "Damn they're hot" Lee breathed.

    "Yes, yes they are.  Come here." Zac pulled him in and soon both couples were making out and no one even noticed the power was back out for several minutes.

“Is it me or is it dark in here?” Scott asked.

    "Damn it" Zac answered, frustrated.

“It is not storming, I do not know what is wrong.” Midge said.

“Sometimes it goes out so they can fix things” Scott offered. “Hopefully it won’t be out long.”

    "We should go, if we're going to be in the dark there are things I'd rather be doing right now." Zac said, running his fingers down Lee's thigh.

    "Sounds VERY good to me.  It was nice meeting you guys."  Lee said, standing up and taking Zac's hand.

“You too Lee, we’ll hang out some other time when there’s not a natural disaster going on outside.” Scott walked them to the door and let them out. “Careful out there, it’s probably a mess.”

    "Bye Scottie!"

“Lee is very cute” Midge said, running his hands down Scott’s back.

“Yes, he is and Zac seems happy. He’s not nearly as cute as you are though.”

“You are very kind. May I have another drink? I am very thirsty and a little bit happy.”

“I like you thirsty and happy. I’ll make you one, but that’s it, okay? I don’t want you hungover in the morning.”

“Oh yes, that headache was not fun. Can we play our own truth and dare now?”

Scott’s eyes widened and he swallowed. “Hell yeah. Let the games begin.”

***** So in honor of 200K reads (WHAT??!!!) I thought y’all might like another half chapter. 86 and a half is posted over in the tidbits. Hope y’all enjoy.

Chapter 87 – Wyatt

Scott wasn’t quite sure why Midge was so attached to his hip. It had been this way since he’d woken up this morning and it wasn’t bothering him, but he was curious if there was a reason. The only time MIdge had been more than 2 feet from him was when Scott went to the bathroom and he hadn’t been sure he’d be able to do even that alone. When he turned from the fridge and bumped into Midge, he finally asked. “Are you alright?”

“I am fine. I did not mean to be in your way” Midge answered, backing up a bit.

“No, I mean, with everything? You’re very… clingy today. Do you need something from me? Comfort? Are you worried about something?”

“Oh, you are worried about me? I am not used to…”

“To being loved?” Scott closed the distance and pulled him against his chest, his arms resting lightly on Midge’s shoulders.

“Yes” he whispered.

“Is it about last night? Are you unsure or worried about what happened?”

“No, I had fun last night and you are happy, I can tell. I guess…. I guess I am a little bit lonely from the weekend and I know you will go again soon and I understand that you must but I just want to be close to you while I can.”

“Maybe you need a pet. I know you have Marley to keep you company when I’m gone but maybe… I don’t know, would you like a kitten or a hamster or something? Or would you eat a hamster?”

Midge shot him a dirty look. “You did not ask me that. You are kidding, right?”

“About the hamster, yes. But I was kind of serious about the cat, unless that’s offensive in which case I’m kidding about all of it and just forget it.”

“You are funny.” Midge said, watching Scott blush and squirm a bit. “I like cats. Maybe it would be fun to have something to play with when you are gone.”

“Maybe we should go to the pet store and see if someone wants to come home with us.”

“Today?”

“No time like the present. Besides, tomorrow we have practice and studio time. You’re still in for the song, right?”

“Yes, I will do my best. I hope I will not disappoint you all.”

“Your best is breathtaking, so don’t worry about that. Want to stop by the pet store?”

“Sure. Is it near the park?”

“Oh, your friend. Yeah, we can stop there, it’s not far. Why don’t we get her some McDonalds or something and take it over after we kitten shop?”

“That would be nice. Thank you Scott.”

---

Midge was a little anxious as he walked through the door Scott held open. The first thing he noticed was the smell; so many animals in one large room. The next thing that hit him was the noises. He heard the rodents chewing and running in their wheels, several things scratching, and the birds all screeching and cawing.

“Wow, they have a ton. Let’s find the kittens.” He took Midge’s hand and pulled him further back into the store with him.

Midge knew immediately when Scott saw one he liked. He peered out from behind his arm and smiled at the little calico kitten in front of him. She was rubbing herself against the front of the glass cage while her two littermates slept in a ball in the back. She walked up and headbutted against Scott’s hand, her face split in two by a cute patch over her eye.

“She’s adorable. Do you like her? Or him? I have no idea.”

“She is cute.” He wandered down to the next set of cages, his eyes immediately drawn to the bottom cage where a single kitten lay in a ball, shivering. “He is hairless.”

“Oh my god. WHAT is that??”

“It is a cat, Scott. He needs a home, he is cold.”

“But he’s… um… I guess they’re cuter with fur.”

“I do not have so much. Well, more than you of course. Do you like me?” he asked.

“I more than like you, boy, and you know that. You are fishing for compliments.”

“You are obsessed with me and fishing. He is perfect.”

“Well, it is for you so you should love whatever we get. Want to hold him?”

“YES!”

“Wait here, I’ll go ask for some help.”

A few minutes later Midge was seated on the floor with a now non-shivering kitten curled up in his lap. “I love him.”

    The salesperson seemed pleased. "I'm so glad.  His brothers and sisters have been gone for two weeks but for some reason, no one wanted the last one.  What are you going to name him?"

“I would like to name him Wyatt” Midge offered.

“Wyatt it is. Wyatt Blue, after Beyonce’s daughter” Scott added.

    "Do you guys have a litterbox, food, toys, all the stuff he'll need?"

“Nope, can you help us with all of that?”

    "Sure, let's get you and Wyatt all set up."

Chapter 88 – Contact

Scott loaded about 429 pounds of cat stuff in the car and opened the door for Midge so he and Wyatt could slide into the seat.  He grinned to himself at how careful Midge was being and how quickly he’d fallen head over heels.  This was literally the best idea ever.

Midge hated to keep him in his travel carrier but he knew that Wyatt was scared and didn’t want him to run away and get hurt.  Stay still, we won’t hurt you.   He knew he should help Scott with the things but also knew Scott wouldn’t let him so this time he didn’t waste time offering.

“Let’s get him home and situated, and then we’ll handle dinner for your friend.”  He pulled onto the road and was parking less than 10 minutes later.  “You going to bring him up?”

“Yes.  I can help with the rest if you would like.”

“No, I’ll get it.  I’ll bring the food up later, she said not to feed him right away.”  He followed Midge up the stairs, thankful he’d held the door.  “Keys in my pocket.  Go fish” he offered, grinning.

“Fish again?  There are things better than keys in there, but it is what we need” he answered, grabbing them and unlocking the door.  “Where should I put him?”

“Why not your room?  She said somewhere quiet and small so he wouldn’t be too afraid.  Just leave the door cracked and he’ll come out when he’s ready, I guess.”

Midge settled him into his room and set up the litter box, calling to him softly to coax him out of the carrier.  Wyatt was more than eager to jump out and onto Midge’s lap but ran under his bed when he laughed.  “I am sorry I scared you kitten.  I must go check on my Scott but I will come back soon” he whispered.

“How is he?” Scott asked, patting the couch next to him.

“Wyatt will be fine.  He is out of his carrier now and exploring.”

“We need some dinner, and you want to try the park, right?  I’d rather do it before it gets too dark.  I know you can see, but I’d feel better if I could too.”

“Oooh, nuggets.  Yes please.  We will be back soon Wyatt” he called softly as he stepped into his shoes.

They went through the drive-thru, Scott ordering for the 3 of them and then heading towards the old apartment.  “I can’t say I love this idea Midge, but if it’s important to you we’ll do it.  Just stay close, okay?”

“I will” he answered, stepping out of the car, her food in his hand.  He took Scott’s with his other hand then headed towards his tree.  “This is where I came when I was bad.  I do not know if she always comes here, but…. Hello!” he called, spying her leaning against the trunk.

        “What the hell do you want?” she asked, defensive.

“I have brought you dinner to say thank you.  Do you remember me?”

        “No.  Do I know you?  Just throw it over here.”

“Your drink will spill but here is your food” he said, tossing it.  “I was in your tree a few weeks ago.  You said I could spend the night but I went home.”

        “You’re the parade freak!  Yeah, yeah, I remember you.  So, he let you come back eh?”  She opened her bag and dug into her burger.

“Would you like your drink?”

        “Yeah, but just you.  Not your freaking daddy or whatever you call him.”

Scott shook his head and rolled his eyes as Midge walked over towards her.

        “So, did he punish you?  Are you okay?” she asked.

“No, he did not.  He was very worried about me.  I was worried about you during the storm.”

        “Shit was intense.  I rode a bus through it, I’m too smart to stay outside in that.”

“I am glad you were safe.  Oh, I brought you a few granola bars to keep.”  Midge reached into his hoodie pocket and pulled out 4 bars.

        “You’re sweet, really.”

“What is your name?” he asked.

        “It’s Ashley.  What was yours again?”

“Midge.  You have beautiful hair Ashley, I have never seen any so long.”

        “Yeah, if I let it down from the ponytail it’s past my ass.  Your master is looking grumpy.”

“Yes, I should go now.”

        “Hey, thanks for the dinner.  You didn’t have to do that and I… well…. thanks.”

“You are welcome.  I will try to come again if that is okay.”

        “You bring me food you can come anytime, kid.”

Chapter 89 – Nanny

She put on her coat and headed out, glad for some fresh air. She’d missed her walk yesterday due to the storm and was later than usual today but a short walk was better than none at all. She hadn’t been sure anyone would be home in time to relieve her, they’d been working more than usual the past two weeks, but she had been pleasantly surprised when her employer had blown in a few minutes ago and told her to head out.

She glanced at her watch and decided to do the short loop around the park. It could be a bit scary but seeing the trees was worth it. There were a lot of people out tonight, so it felt like a good risk.

She was grateful that these past two years she’d been allowed to come out alone, that she was trusted. She’d done her job well, and was proud that she was rewarded with this freedom. But there were times when instead of filling her heart and making it lighter, seeing others made her wish for things she didn’t have. Ungratefulness was not a comfortable emotion for her and did not sit well, so she soon left it behind.

She had three wonderful children to look after and she had grown to love them very much. The first year had been hardest; the worst was the transition, leaving her family and getting used to caring for another. When Jacob was born six months later her hands were more than full with all three children home and under her care. Claire had started school this year though so there was only Jacob who didn’t go to school during the day now. It would be very quiet around the house next fall when he went to Kindergarten as well.

Her gaze landed on a homeless girl throwing away trash into the can with a huge smile on her face. The smell of McDonalds hit her just before a scent she had not smelled in many, many years. She took a few steps forward, unsure and nervous but pushed by her curiosity.

Could it be? The girls’ hair was the longest she’d ever seen, even longer than her sisters’. She was smiling, content in the midst of her filth and that smell, it was….. she took another step before the girl saw her and shot her a nasty look. “Hello?” she asked meekly.

    "What do you want?"

“You… are you?” Words failed her, she could not come out and ask, she had to hope the girl would smell her as well and understand the connection. There was no hint on her face either way, just a well-practiced poker face.

    "You look like just like the parade boy.  Did he send you?"

“I do not know a parade boy.” She took a few steps closer and realized the scent wasn’t getting stronger. “I made a mistake, I am sorry. I will be on my way.”

    "Whatever floats your boat.  Weird day" she mumbled, heading back towards her gear stashed at the bottom of her tree.

She quickly made her way back to the apartment, rapping on the door quickly twice before putting in her code and entering. She hung her jacket up and listened, the sound of a bedtime story being read by Mister Brian upstairs answering her question.

She walked into the kitchen, surprised to see her employer snacking on the leftover chicken. “May I make my plate now?”

    "Absolutely, and thank you for dinner, it was wonderful as always."

“Thank you Miss Lydia. I will clean up and go to my room for the night if you require nothing else?”

    "That's fine.  Ricky seems a bit congested, you will keep an eye on him tonight?"

“Certainly. Would you like me to sleep in his room?”

    "I don't think he's that bad -- just keep one of your famous ears open.  I'll see you in the morning."

She washed the dishes and then wiped down the dining room. She picked up toys on her way through the living room and up the stairs, always amazed at the mess one family could make. Tomorrow she would clean their bedrooms after she got the baking out of the way. Hopefully Ricky would not be sick and would be able to go to school.

She found herself humming softly to herself, startled when she recognized the song. It was a lullaby her mother had once sang to her and her brother, but she had not heard that song in at least ten years, probably more. She couldn’t remember the words but the tune was still there and she smiled all the way to her room.

Chapter 90 – Recording

Scott was absolutely entranced and chortled softly when Kelly reminded him to breathe.  He glanced around, slightly embarrassed but realized that he wasn’t the only one.  In fact, everyone in the room, Kelly included, had a look on their face that was a mix of being stuffed full after Thanksgiving diner and being in a field watching shooting stars at night.

Midge finished, the background vocals dying out, and he waited for further instructions.  All the people involved had been so patient with him, showing him how things worked and explaining exactly what would happen.  Scott had promised not to leave his side and he’d been true to his word.  He was smiling at him even now, so he returned the grin and then looked towards the man who had been talking to him through his headphones earlier.

        “Oh, sorry, uh, yeah, that was perfect” he said, regaining his composure.  “Let’s break.  Mitch you can put the headphones down right on that stool and come on out.”

“It’s Midge” Scott said under his breath, again.

        “Actually, I was thinking we should talk about that.” Avi said, leaning in towards him.  “You said some guy tried to take him, right?  Maybe we should change his name so people can’t find him.  Midge sort of stands out man, ya know?”

Scott had never considered that seeing Midge’s name in print could cause him trouble. “Shit, maybe you’re right…. Hey” he said as he turned toward Midge, putting his arm around his shoulders in greeting.  “We should consider that Avi, maybe you’re right.”  He led Midge towards the break room and grabbed them each some water before finding a seat. How in the world do I bring this up without accidentally freaking him out?   “Midge?”

“Yes Scott?”

“Avi mentioned something to me and it sort of got me thinking, so I wanted to know how you felt about it.”

“Okay.  It sounds important.”

“It is, in some ways.  But it is 100% up to you, alright?”

“Maybe you should just say it instead of worrying.”

Scott nodded, his lips pursed.  “You’re probably right.  Avi was wondering if putting your name on the album, and just out more in general society as you meet more people, might not put you in danger.  I mean, Midge is a pretty uncommon name.  Do you think we should call you something else to keep you safe?  Would it help?  Would you mind?  What do you think?  Am I overthinking things?”

“Are you done?” he asked, head tilted to the side.

“Um, yeah, I guess so.”

“I do not mind if you do not use my name on the album at all.  In life, I do not think it would make much difference either way.  I used to hope, well, that maybe my family would want to contact me or find me, but that is not going to happen so it does not matter.  I do not mind having a new name, although if it is very different I may forget to answer.  Would that make you angry?”

        Kelly was seated next to Scott and overheard most of their conversation.  “Does that mean I couldn’t call you Scodge any more?  It has a nice ring to it.  I wanted to call you Midgott but Jeremy worried someone would be offended if they overhead.  He had a point…. um, sorry, butting out now.”

“Where did you come up with Scodge?  That sounds like some skin disease.  It’s Smidge, obviously” Scott answered, poking her in the side gently until she swatted his hand away.

        “Like a smidge of this and a smidge of that?” she asked, grinning.  “Certainly fits Midge to a T.  Okay, potty break.  Behave yourselves boys.”

“We could just use Mitch, everyone calls you that anyway.  Heck, Kevin does it half the time even now.  Plus, it sounds a lot like it so you wouldn’t be confused all the time.  I don’t know if it helps if the name is that close though.  I don’t know… it’s up to you.”

“Perhaps we could try it out and see how it feels?  What is it you always say?  ‘You won’t know unless you try’?”

“Alright Mid-tch.  It’s SO WEIRD to call you something else.  I literally don’t know if I can do it.”       

“You seem able to do almost anything, my Scott.  I…’m sure you can do this too.”

“You and your contractions, you crack me up.”

“I was told I might fit in more, sound more….” he stood on his tiptoes and whispered into Scott’s ear “human.”

        Jonathan came out of the studio and gathered everyone around.  “What you guys did today sounds AMAZING.  Mitch, your vocals were angellic.  I’d like to let the engineers mix these a bit, work with what we have.  You may get lucky and have the day off tomorrow but you can certainly take the rest of today.  I’ll call everyone later, alright?”

Scott took Midge by the shoulders and turned him so they were facing.  “Do you know what this means?”

“No?” he asked, wide-eyed.

“Christmas shopping.  Miiiiiitch, you are about to go to……. drumroll please….. the MALL.”

        “I’m IN!” Kelly said, grabbing his hand.  “I can NOT wait to see your reaction!”

Chapter 91 – Mall

Ikea had been fun, but this was EPIC.  Midge had been to a mall with Scott the first time they’d gone shopping but it had been nothing compared to THIS.  It had been one floor, maybe 50 stores in total.  This, well, this was a wonderland and not only was it HUGE and amazing but it was decorated for Christmas!

He was glad Kelly was holding his hand because he really didn’t want to spend any energy or thought trying to figure out where to go.  He let her lead him, Scott out in front blazing a trail.  They both had lists and seemed to have a PLAN.  “So you are buying gifts for your family?” he asked Kelly.

        “Yes, and YOU are going to help me, right?  I have….. 18 to do.  What about you Scott?”

“Going to do the whole fam since we’re driving down so I don’t have to worry about mailing.  It’s a ton but I don’t want to count because it’ll seem impossible.  Oooh, H&M, you need this right K?”

        “Yep!”  She led him towards the scarves and hats and starting rummaging through them.

Midge grabbed a sparkly red scarf and threw it around his neck and grabbed a fluffy hat.  “It has ears!”  He put it on his head, grinning when Scott threw his hand over his mouth to keep from laughing.  “Do you like it?”

“I like yours better, but you could totally wear that and no one would know.”

“I do not think they are quite big enough for mine though.  Oh well, maybe I will find another.  I do like the scarf though.”

“Nope, can’t deal.  Sorry love.”

“You are no fun.  What do you like?”

        His answer was cut off by Kelly reappearing, bag in hand.  “I can’t believe our luck, no line.  Let’s go boys!  Next stop, Macy’s and Michael Kors!”

Midge didn’t really care what was next or where they were going.  What he really wanted was to slow down so he could look at everything. Why are humans always in such a rush?  Don’t they know how amazing this is?   He felt a tug and hurried up, pulling his eyes away from the jewelry store.  He walked into Macy’s and his eyes went to the ceiling of the three-story store.  There were escalators, and wreaths and glittering gold hanging from the ceiling.  “Can I ride them?  Please?”

        “I’ll wait with him Scott, go ahead.”

“Just up then straight back down–”

“I am not… I am sorry Scott.” Midge interrupted, then felt guilty.

“No, I’m sorry.  Okay, can you please forget I treated you like a 5 year-old?  I’ll meet you at the bags soon, alright?”  He gave Midge a quick smile before heading off to find a gift for his mother and sister.

        Kelly watched Midge go up and then come back, a grin on his face.  “Yeah, yeah, go again” she added before he asked, knowing he wanted to.

“That was so much fun, you can see so many things from the moving stairs!” he squealed.

        “I need to go to the purses, come with?”

“Of course.”  He spotted Scott almost immediately, noticing that he had a bag in his hand.  “You have found something?”

“Mmmhmm, it’s for Kelly though so you can’t see it right now.”

        “It IS?” she asked, leaning in.  “It looks jewelry sized.  Kelly LOVES jewelry.”

“You’re a dork.  Now, help me K.  This one?” Scott asked, holding up a bag.

        “Yes, but not black.  The maroon” she decided, nodding.

After another hour and several more purchases, they decided to head for the food court and take a break to rest and regroup for the next phase of shopping.

“Okay, I’m going to take ALL of this to the car so we don’t have to haul it around.  I’ll be back.”  Scott stood and started gathering bags, somehow managing to get ahold of all of them.  “See you in a few.”

        “Okay Midge, gotta find something for Scott. Let’s go!”  Kelly grabbed his hand and dashed through the mall.

Midge did his best to keep up, even when she dropped his hand to go around a woman pushing a baby carriage.  It wasn’t until a group of young men got in between them and blocked his view that he was worried.  He moved around them but didn’t see her in the huge mass of people in front of him.  He stood still a moment, looking but instead of on her, he eyes landed on the Cartier window beside him and his bracelet gleaming in the case.

Kelly finally ducked into the store and looked behind her and saw…. no Midge.  Shit.  No, no no.  Scott will KILL me.   She walked back into the corridor and in the direction she had come but couldn’t see anything over the heads of all the people in front of her.  “Midge?” she called, hoping he would hear her.  She waited a minute, then two, and then headed back towards the food court, calling for him as she went.

Scott saw Kelly coming and breathed a sigh of relief.  “I was just about to call you.  Where….. is MIDGE?” he asked, his voice showing his concern.

        “He’s…. I don’t know.  He was with me and then—”

“NO.  NO NO NO NO.  Where?  Where did you go?  Take me!” he ordered.

Chapter 92 – Panic

Midge walked in, captivated by the way the light bounced off the gold and diamonds that surrounded him.  He peered closely at the first case, mentally examining each piece.  The second case didn’t appeal to him as much and he didn’t have holes in any of his ears to wear the glittery jewels.

He moved to the third case and leaned down to see it more closely.  He noticed the case was open at the same moment he saw the most beautiful bracelet he had ever seen.  It had a small circle in the middle that was open just a bit, but he wanted to see what was beneath the cover.  He reached around and picked up the bracelet, clicking it onto his wrist.  He had just peered beneath the cover, revealing a tiny watch, when he heard the man behind him.

        “Take the jewelry off and hand it to me.  Now.”

Midge looked at the large man behind him.  He wore a uniform and a frown on his face.  He took off the watch and extended it, palm up.  “I am sorry, I just wanted to see it.”

        “And the rest of it.”

“The rest?  I did not touch anything else.”

        “The Panthere bracelet.  Now.”

“But it is mine.”

        “You need to come with me.”  He took Midge by the elbow as another guard came towards him and yet another appeared at the door.

“Where are we going?”

        “I need to ask you a few questions about the bracelet.  Come along.”

---

        “This is as far as I went.  I ducked in here and looked back to make sure he was with me and nothing, no Midge”  Kelly explained.

“When did you drop his hand?  How far do we know he came?”

        “I don’t remember exactly, it wasn’t far, maybe 3 stores down.”

“Show me, let’s see what’s in between.  Maybe he got distracted.  We need to check all the stores, both sides.”  He walked out and down about 10 feet before he saw what he was dreading.  “A fucking escalator.  Maybe he took that?  He could be anywhere!”

        Kelly knew Scott wasn’t really mad at her, he was just scared and honestly, so was she.  The place was huge.  “I’m so sorry, I didn’t think… I mean…. it’s so easy to forget he’s not… I’m sorry.”

“Go up and down the escalator and look and call for him.  You don’t have to be too loud, he might hear you.  I’m going to try all the stores.  I’ll meet you right back here in 15 minutes, okay?”

        “Alright Dip Dot, let’s do this.”  She headed up first so that she could start from the top and work her way down all three floors, then back up again.  She looked left and right, calling his name every few minutes.  The people near her probably thought she was crazy, but she didn’t really care at this point.

Scott was frantic.  He was so worried that he took a deep breath and stepped into the Victoria Secrets store that loomed in front of him.  Yes, Midge definitely might have come in here, curious.  He headed to the right then made his way to the back of the store, trying his best to not touch ANYTHING.

        “Would you like some help?” a salesgirl asked, stepping in front of him so quickly he almost ran into her.  “Looking for a gift?”

“No, no, someone.  A friend.  Um, this tall, dark, cute little beard?” he asked, holding his hand up to show how much shorter Midge was.  He continued looking around, his eyes darting around the store as quickly as possible to try to prevent himself from actually seeing something.

        “Sorry, I don’t remember seeing him but it’s quite busy today.  Let me know if you need anything.”

“Thanks.”  He fled towards the door, checking out the opposite side and finally relaxed a little when he was back in the corridor.  He glanced at his phone to check the time, then stepped into the Radio Shack next door to look.  No luck though, and it was time to go back to meet Kelly.  He could only hope she’d found him.

        Kelly was back on the third floor and had pretty much given up hope.  She’d really thought she would find him, being able to see so much as she passed by, but there had been no sign of him.  She headed back to the second floor to meet up with Scott, hoping he’d had better luck.

Chapter 93 – Interrogation

“Sit down in that chair while we go over the video tapes.”   The officer sat at a nearby desk and turned on the computer, another guard keeping an eye on Midge.

“It is mine, it was a gift.”

        “Then the tapes will show that, won’t they? he said. “Joe, get his information and fill out the paperwork.”

Midge sat still, his hands in his lap.  He knew that he must do everything right and even then, this could go very badly for him.  He had been taught to stay away from the police, and for good reason.

        “Okay, I need your I.D. please” the younger guard asked, sitting next to Midge with a clipboard on his lap.

“I do not have I.D.”

        “Of COURSE you don’t.  What’s your name?”

“Midge.”

        “Midge what?”

“Midge… Hoying.”

        “Age?”

“I am 20.”

        “And you don’t have I.D.?  Know your social security number?”

“No.”

        “Address?”

“8219 Sundial Drive, apartment 4B, in Los Angeles.”

        “Wait here.”  He stood then went to his desk and attempted to pull up the missing information on this ‘Midge’.

Midge let his eyes roam around the room, looking for an escape route if it came to that.  So far he was unchained which was a huge advantage to him.  He noticed the camera in the corner and tried not to face it.

        “Alright, tell me where you got this bracelet?” the older officer asked, turning in his chair.

“It was a gift.  It has…. wait it has my name in it!”

        “It’s engraved?  Let me see it please.”

“You will give it back?”

        “If it’s yours, of course I will, and I’ll apologize too.  Don’t think that’s going to happen though, is it?”

“I do not know.”  He pressed the hidden latch and removed it, then looked at it one more time before handing it to the large man.

        “Well I be.  Alright, alright Mr. Hoying, let me just take a picture and you can have it back and be on your way, with our apologies.”

“Thank you Sir.  I am sorry for causing trouble.”

        “Hey, misunderstandings happen, right?  I hope you won’t hold it against the establishment, you must understand their position here, right?”

Midge just nodded because he was too busy finally breathing again to speak.  He refastened his collar around his wrist, his shoulders relaxing. “I may go?”

        “One second boss, he’s uh, he’s not here.  I can’t find anything on the kid.” the young man said.

        “What do you mean?”

        “Address has a Scott, but no Midge.  Not a single Midge Hoying in any of the databases, hell I even tried google.  He doesn’t exist.”

        “Is that a nickname, son?” he asked Midge.

“Um” he panicked.  He was so close to being let go and now he had no idea what the right answer was.  “Sometimes I am called Mitch.”

        “Where were you born?  Birthdate?”

“I was born in Texas, in July of 1992.  I did not take the bracelet, you said I could go.”

        “Give us a minute, alright?  What’s the hurry?”

“Scott and Kelly are waiting for me, I did not mean to get separated.  They will be worried.”

        “Give ’em a call if you want, tell them you’ll be a few more minutes.”

“I do not have my phone.  I wish I did but I forget to charge it and did not know I was coming to the mall after the studio today.  I should never leave it home again.”

        “We can’t really hold him Joe, even though it’s awfully strange that you can’t find him.  Nothing yet, huh?  Even under Mitch?”       

        “Nothing.  We could search him, it would give me a few more minutes.  How do we know he didn’t grab something else from that case that we missed on the tape?”

        “I like the way you think Joe” the older officer said, standing.  “Alright, I need to pat you down Midge.  You got anything on your person you don’t want me to find?”

Chapter 94 – Caught

“No, no, do not touch me” Midge begged, curling as far into the seat as possible.

    "Look, don't make this hard.  We have every right to search you.  Stand up."

“I can not. You…. no please???!!” he whined. “I did not take anything. Please let me go. Please.”

    "If I didn't think you were guilty before, I sure as hell do now kid.  Stand up, or I can call LAPD right now.  Your choice."

’Who are they?“

    "The Los Angeles Police Department, kid, and if you think I'm unhappy, you do NOT want to meet one of them."  He looked over his shoulder at Joe.  "Anything?"

    "Nada.  Checking missing persons reports now.  Can we print him?"

    "Not unless I find something, that's a PD thing.  Okay, now, last time kid.  Stand up, hands on top of your head."

Midge wanted to run but there was no way he’d get around Joe who was between him and the locked door. All he could do was what he was asked, and hope that they would not find his tail. His ears were probably safe, glued down as they were and his hands would be there….. it was just his tail he was worried about. Plus he did not want to be hurt, or touched at all by anyone but Scott. He had no choice though, so he stood slowly and raised his arms.

    "Good choice kid.  Now, any knives, guns, weapons?"

“No, no, of course not” he answered hesitantly.

    "Then if you don't have any lifted merchandise, we'll be all good here.  Stand still."  He started at his wrists, feeling down his arms and then patting his way down his chest.  He put a hand in each of his jeans pockets in the front, then patted down his legs where he lifted the hems to look at his socks and shoes.

Midge relaxed a bit, thinking he was almost done.

    "Turn" he said, spinning his finger.

He was caught, he knew he was. He turned slowly, trying to stop the tears. When he felt the man’s hands slip down from his shoulders and towards his lower back he shivered. He felt those hands brush against his tail and then his shirt lift up. Then it was dropped down and he heard the man step back.

    "Pull the waist of your pants down so I can see."

“No, please” he begged. “Just let me go, please.”

    "Joe, you're gonna wanna see this.  Get the camera and tell me I'm not fucking crazy."

Midge froze as he felt hands wind around and undo his button and zipper, then push his pants down a few inches to expose the base of his tail. Tears fell full force now, he had no idea what would happen to him but he would never be with his Scott again.

    "Jesus, Mary and the Pope, is that fucking REAL?" Joe asked.

    "Kid, start talking.  How the hell do you have a tail?"

Midge didn’t answer, he leaned forward against the wall, overwhelmed with anguish, his shoulders shaking.

    "Joe, call L.A.P.D. and tell them to come get him, or it.  They can hold him for 24 hours without charges and try to figure out what the fuck it is.  I swear, kids these days are crazy."

    "Maybe he's an alien or something.  Or it could be, I mean some crazy fetish or kink thing?  Can you GET a tail sewn on?"

    "Maybe he was born with it, I don't know, but I am NOT dealing with it."  He got on the radio, calling for another guard to come in the room.   "Sit down kid, but don't try anything funny.  I don't know who or what you are but the PD will figure it out soon enough."

Chapter 95 – Jail

Midge sat on a metal chair, his legs pulled up and his arms wrapped around them. He knew that deep down he was probably hungry and cold, but the only thing he felt was scared. The officers he’d been picked up by were actually no meaner than the ones he left behind at the store. The ride over had been fine until they turned the sirens on but even that hadn’t been too bad.

When he arrived, they stripped him of his bracelet and shoes along with the few dollars he had in his pocket. Now he was sitting in a stupid cage and waiting. He heard footsteps and then looked up when a voice spoke to him.

    "You can come make your phone call now.  Follow me."

He trailed behind to a huge phone attached to the wall and simply stared at it. He had no idea what Scott’s phone number was, it was just in his phone, already programmed. “Can you find a number for me?”

    "Here's the book.  You've got 2 minutes."

He opened it up, realizing it was alphabetical and looked frantically for Scott but he wasn’t there. Then he realized the names were by last name first so he searched for Hoying and then Scott, but it proved useless. “He is not in this book.”

    "Can't help you.  If you get booked you'll get a defender and he can help you.  Let's go."

He sat back on his chair, his waiting broken by dinner being brought to him. He nibbled a bit but stopped when he heard his name. A moment later two guards were at his door.

     "Medical exam, let's go."

One of the guards led him into a room only slightly larger than his cage while the other waited outside. There was a desk on one wall, a cabinet full of supplies, and a bed in the center.

    "Put this on, Doc will be in shortly" the guard said, handing him a small robe.

Midge started to put it over his clothes until the guard stopped him.

    "NO, strip and put it on."

“What is happening?”

    "Medical exam, freak.  Heard you have a tail.  Now strip and put that on, times a-wasting."

Midge looked up from the floor for just a moment but couldn’t face the guard. He quickly slid off his shirt and put the small robe on, then slipped his pants off. The door opened then as a middle-aged man walked in.

    "I'm Doctor Kline.  Lay on your front on the table."

“No, I …. but…. what are you going to do to me? May I ask?”

    "It's just an exam.  Lay down please."

He lay down stiffly and tried to relax, to calm his mind and go to his happy place. He thought of laying on Scott’s couch, his head in his lap while they watched a movie. He tried to block out the feeling of the doctor’s hands on him, pinching and prodding at the base of his tail.

    "Midge?" Doctor Kline asked.

“Yes?”

    "I asked if you can move it."

“I can move my tail.”

    "Show me."

He did, hearing the gasps from the group who were now assembled, filling in every corner of the room.

    "Were you born with this tail?" the doctor asked.

“Yes.”

    "Please sit up so I can continue your examination."

Midge sat, his legs hanging over the edge of the table while people stared at him and watched everything the doctor did. His ears were found and released so they stood upright again. All 4 were thoroughly checked, and the doctor spent a long time looking at his ears and mouth, down his throat and into his nose.

    "You are amazing.  Please lay back."

His belly was prodded and poked, his peni$ and balls thoroughly examined before the doctor moved down to his as$. Apparently his legs were fairly uninteresting because that part went fairly quickly.

          "Alright, you're finished.  I'm going to swab your cheek and draw some blood and then you will return to your cell."

He watched the blood slowly filling vial after vial. He thought he was done after the fifth but the doctor simply switched arms and filled 3 more.

    "He will need to be escorted.  He may be a bit light-headed so please watch him carefully.  Make sure he is fed and has enough blankets to stay warm." Doctor Kline told the guards.

    "Let's go, pussy boy" the guard joked, grabbing Midge by the elbow.

He was almost glad to see his cage again. He was cold and tired, so he curled into a ball on the smelly, bumpy mattress and cuddled under his thin blanket. He wished he had a pillow to hold but he didn’t even have one for his head. It was okay, he had been through much, much worse. He told himself that repeatedly and even though it was true, it did little to ease the sadness or fear.

He wondered where Scott was, if he was warm at home and snuggling Wyatt. He wondered if he would look for him, and if he would be allowed to go back if Scott managed to find him. He finally fell asleep thinking about him, pretending that the cold wall at his back was instead his Scott, here with him.

Chapter 96 – Carousel

“Okay, help me think. What would he do? Where would he go? If we stick with the ‘he’s just distracted and not taken’ thing, what should we do?” Scott asked, holding onto Kelly’s shoulders for support.

    "He would notice eventually, right?  Maybe we should go back to the food court since that's the last place we were together?"

“Yes, yes, okay. Food court. That makes sense.” He grabbed Kelly’s hand and practically dragged her back to the very table they’d sat in half an hour ago. “He’s not here. What now? Can we page him? Don’t they do intercom things?”

    "Yes!  Of course.  Brilliant Sherlock.  Look, I'll go and get him paged and tell him to come here, alright?  So just get a cup of coffee or, no, strike that, something without caffeine and I'll be back."  She didn't really wait for a response, just took off towards the gift-wrap table to find out where customer service was.

Ten minutes later Scott heard the intercom asking for Midge. It was fairly hard to understand but he thought that Midge’s ears would definitely pick it up and even if he was in some wonderland of, who knows, Build-a-Bear or Lindt, it would get his attention and he would be back. Any minute. He would come rushing over saying ‘I am sorry’ any…. minute….“ He stood up, figuring that even if he didn’t spot Midge, it would be pretty easy for someone to find him. He saw movement and tried to hide his disappointment that it was Kelly who appeared.

    "Not yet?  He'll come Scott, he'll come.  Just give him a little more time, the mall is huge.

“Yeah. He’ll be here any minute and later we’ll laugh at ourselves for being worried. Any…. minute now.” He turned his head, constantly scanning the food court. “He’s not coming” he whispered a few minutes later.

    "Yes he is."  Kelly tried to reassure him but as the minutes passed by, she got more and more worried herself.

“Maybe Zac and Lee and Jake and everyone could come help us look?”

    "Absolutely.  I'll call Jeremy, Avi, and Kevin.  Wait, what should I tell them?"

“Just get them here and looking, have them call me if they find him. My phone is charged. God, I TOLD him today to not worry about his phone because we were just going to rehearsal and… FUCK. I am SO stupid. I told him I’d be with him Kake, I promised and he’s––”

    "He's lost.  Just lost.  Look, they'll start closing the stores soon so eventually he is going to be in this corridor, no matter how much fun he's having.  Right?  RIGHT?"

“Right. Yeah, okay. So they’ll kick him out and we’ll find him. Okay, I’m going make some calls. Let’s do one more loop while we’re calling. Maybe he’ll see us? I can’t sit here anymore.” They walked the entire length of the second floor then went down the escalator. He started laughing, pointing at the carousel and heading for it.

    "Scottland?  Do you see him?"

“NO, but he’s HERE, KK, of COURSE he’s here! I’m so stupid, I forgot all about the carousel. The CAROUSEL Kake!!!”

    "WHAT are you talking about?"

“Disneyland! I told him that if we ever got separated to meet at the carousel! The music is loud, he probably didn’t hear the page. He’s here, look around.” He dropped Kelly’s hand and started making a loop around the ride, calling Midge’s name. For the first time in over an hour he relaxed, putting a smile on his face so Midge wouldn’t be worried when he saw him. Five minutes and about 8 loops later, his smile was gone. “But where else could he be Kelly? He would have answered the page, or come here. Something’s wrong.”

    "Don't think the worst.  I just got a text that Jeremy's already here, we'll find him when it closes, okay?"

    Zac and Lee, still dressed in a suit and tie, came around the corner.  "Hey Scott  I think you should sit tight somewhere.  Don't they always say that if you're lost, don't move?  What if it's a whole 'notes under the door thing' all over again?" Zac asked.  "We'll split up and cover more ground than you could, anyway."

“Okay, yeah, you’re right. Um, KK can you stay here and I’ll go to the food court? Thanks guys, I owe you yet another one Zac.”

Two hours later the mall was empty except for a few employees pulling down the store gates and heading towards their car. The entire assembled gang, all 8 of them, stood next to the carousel which had stopped running 15 minutes ago.

     "Lee and I will take the third floor" Zac said.

    "Me and Kev'll get the second" Avi offered.

    "I'll take Jake and do the first" Jeremy said.

Then they were off, one last pass back and forth to cover the entire mall before mall security threw them out for the night. Scott put his head down in his hands. He didn’t want to watch them return, one pair after another without his missing half. He felt Kelly’s head rest against him, knew she was tired and sad and guilty but he couldn’t find any energy to comfort her.

He heard and felt them come back, their mumbled ‘sorry’ and ‘we can try again tomorrow’ and ‘is there anything else we can do’ all blending together into one single word. ‘NO’. He stood then and opened his mouth to scream. “MIIIIDGE!!!!” he bellowed, full strength.

    "Time to go home Dot.  Want to come with us?  We can get your car tomorrow."

“No, I’m going home. Maybe he’ll come home. Somehow.”

Chapter 97 – Eval Pt. 1

Midge Hoying                                                     Case No.: 19,821                Building No.: 2   Admission Date: 12/10/2012       Date of Evaluation:  12/11/2012 Date of Report:  12/11/2012

                                                      

PURPOSE FOR EVALUATION :

Intake examination for 20 year old, single, male.  Admitted due to physical abnormalities and generally fearful behavior.

The purpose of this evaluation is to screen for evidence of psychosis and clarify whether or not the patient is mentally stable.

ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES :  

       Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III (MCMI-III)         Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2)         Mental Status Examination        Clinical Interview

      This patient participated in 3 hours of testing and a 1 hour diagnostic interview.  Tests were administered by Lena Smith, M.S. and interpreted by John Myrabelle, M.A..

BACKGROUND INFORMATION : Patient denies previous mental health testing or admission to facility.  He was solemn, but cooperative during his stay and presented well for testing.  Reports from Doctor Kline indicate patient was cooperative for his medical exam.  Blood work is still outstanding.  Patient denies any current medications or medical problems.

MENTAL STATUS EXAMINATION :

Results of mental status examination revealed an alert, attentive individual who showed no evidence of excessive distractibility and tracked conversation well. The patient was casually dressed and groomed. Orientation was intact for person, time and place. Eye contact was appropriate. There was no abnormality of gait, posture or deportment. Speech functions were appropriate for rate, volume, prosody, and fluency, with no evidence of paraphasic errors. Vocabulary and grammar skills were suggestive of intellectual functioning within the average range.   Please note that patient does not use contractions.

The patient’s attitude was secretive yet cooperative. His mood was solemn and controlled. Affect was appropriate to verbal content and showed broad range. Memory functions were grossly intact with respect to immediate and remote recall of events and factual information.  Questions of his past were largely unanswered.  His thought process was intact, however and well organized.  Social judgment appeared below average, as evidenced by interactions with staff.

SUMMARY/RECOMMENDATIONS : 

Results of psychological evaluation reveal a history of physical, sexual and emotional abuse and a psychotic disorder characterized primarily by disturbance of thought content, with relative integrity of thought process and no clear indication of perceptual disturbance. Currently, Mr. Hoying appears to remain extremely distressed, anxious, paranoid, and delusional, despite self-reports to the contrary. He lacks sufficient capacity/ motivation to rely on external supports and lacks sufficient personal insight to cope independently at present. The patient appears to be attempting to cope with his illness using extreme guardedness and withdrawal. He has shown no signs of aggressive ideation and is not believed to be a physical risk to himself or others at present.

It is recommended that efforts to establish a trusting relationship with this patient be continued, in order to help him cultivate a more adaptive coping/defensive pattern. Individual therapy will be more productive than group interventions. Once his guardedness has been relaxed, it will likely be beneficial to explore psychosocial issues present at the time Mr. Hoying left home, as these appear to have partially precipitated the current psychotic exacerbation. Additionally, the patient will benefit from encouragement to explore the social and adaptive significance of his abuse history.

Please let me know if any additional information is needed concerning the results of this evaluation.  A full transcript of today’s interview will follow on the next pages.

---

James R. Jones, M.A. Psychology Associate                   George F. Fink, Ph.D. Psychologist II

Chapter 98 – Eval Pt. 2

Midge stirred when he was told by the guard to come out of his cage. He glanced briefly at his uneaten breakfast and ran his fingers through his hair before making his way through the door and down the hallway.

    "Right here, inside you go."  He peeked his head in at the doctor.  "Want me to stay ma'am?"

    "Has he been violent?"

    "No, meek as a mouse.  Funny since he's a cat.  But no, no trouble."       
    "Wait in the hallway then, please" she answered, opening the blinds on the window between the hallway and her office so the guard would have a clear view.  "Have a seat Mr. Hoying."

Midge looked at the metal chair briefly before sitting down and putting his hands in his lap. He watched her take out the tape recorder and turn it on.

Smith: I’m Doctor Smith, and all we’re going to do today is have you take a few tests and then talk awhile, alright? You are being recorded. This will be easiest and most helpful for you if you cooperate and tell the truth. Do you understand what I’ve said to you?

Midge: Yes.

Smith: Are you fully fluent in English?

Midge: Yes, I think so.

Smith: Are you literate?

Midge: Can I read?

Smith: Correct, can you read?

Midge: I… yes but not well.

Smith: Alright, I’ll help you with the tests then, it’s not a problem. I will ask you a question and you tell me if you think it applies to you never, sometimes, or often. Do you understand?

Midge: Yes but I do not know your rules. I do not know what is proper or how I should act.

Smith: Just tell the truth, there are no rules.

Note: Two hours break for evaluation tests. Patient was allowed a bathroom break and given some water before he took the final two tests.

Smith: Now, can I get you anything before we have our talk?

Midge: No. I am fine

Smith: Please tell me your name and age, for the record and my report.

Midge: My name is Midge, I am 20 years old.

Smith: And how are you feeling today?

Note: Patient often takes up to 30 seconds before answering.

Midge: I do not feel good.

Smith: Physically or mentally? Please explain.

Midge: I am tired and cold and hungry. I am scared and very sad and want to go home.

Smith: And where is home?

Midge: With Scott.

Smith: Who is Scott?

Midge: He is…. I live with him.

Note: Patient often rubs wrist, including now, although he is not handcuffed.

Smith: Please explain what happened yesterday, and how you came to be here.

Midge: I was at the mall with Scott and Kelly but I went into a store alone. I should not have done so. I touched a bracelet but I did not know it was wrong. The guards were very angry although I gave it back. They found out about me and brought me here but I did not do anything wrong.

Smith: Were you going to steal the bracelet?

Midge: No. I was just looking at it. I wanted to see what was inside and it was a watch. It was beautiful but it was not mine. I have a bracelet, I do not need another. I wish I could have it back.

Smith: You did not see a problem with taking it out of the case and putting it on?

Midge: No, but I understand that it must be wrong. The guards were angry with me.

Note: Patient was shivering and given a blanket which he wrapped completely around himself. He seemed slightly more relaxed.

Smith: Can you tell me about your tail and ears please?

Midge: What do you want to know?

Smith: Does anyone else in your family have the same mutation?

Midge: We are all Neko.

Smith: What is Neko?

Midge: What I am. I do not understand.

Smith: Do you mean you describe someone with your mutations as Neko?

Midge: I think so.

Smith: Are you a Neko Human? For instance, I am a Caucasian, female human. You are a Male Neko human?

Midge: No, I am a boy Neko.

Smith: Do you know of anyone else with this mutation? Other than your family?

Midge: Yes, there are others.

Smith: You hide yourself, as I’m sure you feel you must. Do you fear people finding out about your tail and ears?

Midge: I am here because of it. I do not understand. I have done nothing but you will not let me go home.

Smith: Tell me about your childhood, growing up. Did others know?

Midge: Only my family and other Nekos. I did not see humans very much. Some knew, I am sure but not many. The man who bought my sister knew, he saw me.

Smith: The man who bought your sister?

Midge: Yes, Misty’s master Sebastian knows of me. More now but he knew then and that is your question, correct?

Smith: Explain how your sister was bought?

Midge: My mother received money and he took Misty. That is how you buy things.

Smith: Were you also bought?

Midge: Yes, later.

Smith: By who? What happened?

Midge: I do not like to speak of it, he was cruel.

Smith: Abusive?

Midge: He owned me, he could do with me as he wished. But I did not… I did not like my time there.

Smith: Are you with him now?

Midge: No, he sold me.

Smith: Please explain how you were treated.

Midge: By my first master?

Smith: Yes.

Midge: I was used. He hurt me for fun. He kept me in a cage much smaller than this one. I was hungry, sad, alone. There was no comfort.

Note: Break for lunch. Patient seemed to have no concept of how inconceivable his experiences were and relayed them without emotion until he spoke of his first master. Then he showed physical signs of distress including sweating, shaking, rubbing his wrist and halted speech. He is very guarded and thinking carefully about each answer. I have no way of knowing how much of this is factual or if it may be psychosis, especially given his lengthy pauses. In a human who presented physically correctly I would mark him as highly psychotic immediately. However, with his physical mutations I am unwilling to form an opinion without more information and more extensive examination. Possible schizopsychotic disorders can not be ruled out.

Part 3 will follow on the next page.

Chapter 99 – Eval Pt. 3

December 11, 2012 Midge Hoying Altercation summary brief

Inmate refused breakfast and lunch. Doctor Kline was consulted and recommended an IV due to extended blood draw yesterday evening during medical exam.

IV was inserted at 1:18 pm with consent. Shortly after it was taped he became agitated and asked what it was for and why it wasn’t coming out, although he had been fully briefed prior to insertion.

Inmate removed IV himself and got down from the examination table. Guards were called by the on-duty nurse but inmate was calm and nonthreatening. However, when informed that the IV would be replaced he refused to lay on the table. Inmate was restrained with Posey cuffs to ankles and wrists. Tail was secured using an ace bandage to his leg.

IV was reinserted at 1:52 pm.

Dr. Kline advises he receive two saline bags before being released. Estimated release time of 4:32 pm. Total time in restraints estimated at approximately two and a half hours. Dr. Kline has filed a sedative request.

Inmate was asked several times if he was comfortable but refused to answer. Psychiatric admin have been notified and will add an addendum below.

Filed 12/11/12 Captain Brian Rogers

---

December 11, 2012 Midge Hoying Psychiatric addendum

Part 3 of patient intake psychiatric evaluation has been postponed indefinitely due to patient unresponsiveness.

Midge was quiet but in obvious emotional distress when I entered at 2:27 pm. He asked to be released and promised that he would ‘be good’. Patient is fearful for his safety. When informed that he would be released when he had finished his treatment he became silent and refused to ask or answer any further questions.

Given his interview this morning detailing abuse and time spent in a ‘cage’ I can not condone the use of restraints at this time. Whether real or invented, it is most certainly true enough to him to cause him additional suffering. If he must be restrained I suggest that he be sedated in order to lessen the trauma of this event.

I can not be certain that he fully understands the ramifications of not eating. I request he be brought to my office with his dinner so that we can attempt to make him comfortable enough to eat of his own free will and prevent further incidents.

Filed 12/12/12 Dr. Lena Smith

Chapter 100 – Reward

Scott had finally fallen asleep around 3:00 a.m. but here it was not even 8:00 and he was awake again.  He ran to the door and opened it just in case there was a sleeping Midge curled up outside but no, of course there wasn’t.

Think.  He had to think.  What were the options?  What was most likely?  He had to figure out what had happened before he could solve the riddle and find his boy.  Paper.  Yes, this was going to require paper.  And hypermilk, um, coffee.  Yes, definitely coffee.

He sat down at their small dining room table with both things, pen in hand.  Okay, what did he know?

1.  Midge would not have run away 2.  He was IN the mall with him and Kelly 3.  The customer service desk said they hadn’t seen him, and he hadn’t answered the page. 4.  He seemed to not be in the mall when it closed. 5.  He didn’t have his phone 6.  …  … ….

So where did he go?  He wouldn’t have left the mall without Scott unless he had to, right?  He didn’t like to go out alone and no, that just wasn’t likely.  So, he had left against his will.  With who?  How?  Someone had taken him, it was the only thing that made sense.

He tilted the chair back and rubbed at his scratchy eyes.  Who?  How?  The last time Steven had tried to take him Midge had more than taken care of himself.  Steven.  He could have seen them and Scott probably wouldn’t have noticed him in the crowd, he wasn’t really paying attention.  He could have waited for a chance while Midge was alone and grabbed him.

He threw his coat on over his sweatpants and grabbed his keys, heading to the restaurant.  He ran to the front door and realized it was closed, it didn’t open until lunch time.  “FUCK!” he yelled, banging on the door anyway.

He gave up and headed home.  He needed help, and a plan, and someone to work things out with him and make sure he wasn’t missing something.  He grabbed a shower and called Zac and Kelly, hoping they could come over and help him come up with a solution.  Kelly was free, since she had studio time booked on her calendar.  Zac however had to work but said he could reschedule his afternoon meetings and would be there by noon.

        Kelly arrived with muffins and a hug, both of which were desperately needed.  “What’s the plan babe?”

“I don’t know.  I think Steven might have him so I want to go to the restaurant and talk to him.”

        “Talk?” Kelly questioned.

“Well, enough to find out if he has him.  Then I’m going to make him give him back, one way or another.”

        “Some people would just file a missing persons report Scott.”

“I thought of that, but is getting the police involved a good idea?  What am I going to say ‘Oh, this guy with no last name that’s been crashing at my place and happens to have no ID, oh, and he’s part cat, well, he’s gone missing’?”

        “Uh, yeah.  I see the problem.  So uh, if someone took him, what would they, I mean, do you think they’d want to keep him or didn’t you say they got sold?  I mean, is it a money thing?”

“Sometimes, probably.  Steven hurt him though, kept him for awhile, I don’t think he would sell him.”

        “But if it’s not Steven and just some random person?  Or if he wants money more than Midge?  What if we put up reward posters?”

Scott jumped up and pulled Kelly into his arms, bouncing.  “YES!  Oh my god I LOVE you.  Yes.  Okay, so maybe I can sort of buy him back?  That sounds so wrong.”

        “But I know what you mean.  Yeah, maybe they’d ransom him to you or something.”

Scott ran into his bedroom and grabbed the laptop to make a flyer.  “Okay, do I make it like REWARD real big on the top?  That makes him sound like a missing pet.”

        “How about Missing?”

“Yeah, okay.  So, missing, and then his picture below that?  Which one should we use?”

        “Well I wouldn’t show his ears.  Anyone who has him will recognize him, I’m sure.  Oooh, that one” she said, pointing.

“Okay, and below that a little blurb that he went missing yesterday and the reward, and a contact number.  Anything else?”

        “Looks good, really good.  Let’s get some printed and we’ll put them up all over the place.”

Scott put an online order in and listed Kelly as the alternative pick-up person.  “Can you grab some and see what you can do about getting some posted?  When Zac gets here I need to go see Steven, and I’ll put a bunch more up afterwards if I don’t get any info out of him.”

        “Will you call me after, let me know how things go?”

“Sure Kake.”

        “And if you need company tonight, you know you don’t have to be alone.  Call me, or someone.  Okay?”

“I’m not feeling very much like company but thanks.”

        She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him on the jaw.  “Love you Dot, take care.  We’ll find him.”

Chapter 101 – Transfer

*** I know you guys have been biting your nails and yelling at the screen so without further ado….

Agent Guy stared at the computer screen before him, barely believing his eyes. Did he really see the words ‘Midge’ and ‘Neko’ in the same report? He threw his head back and laughed, then picked up the 1990’s piece-of-shit phone that sat on his desk, which was probably older than his current office. “Vanessa” he said to his secretary, “get me a plane ticket to L.A. I need to be there ASAP. Yesterday would be even better.”

At 10 am the next morning he strode into the precinct office, straight off the plane. He left his rental car running and illegally parked in the loading zone directly out front. “I’m Agent Guy. I need to speak with whoever’s in charge. Now. And don’t you dare tow my car.” He flashed his badge and decided to stand after looking at the state of the waiting room.

It took a solid four minutes but soon the Captain was waving him through security checkpoints and into his office. “Captain, I’m here for the Neko. You will release him into my custody immediately.”

    "I don't know what you're talking about" he answered.

“Don’t bullshit me. You want me to believe that you have a cat-human in custody and don’t know about it? I may have been born at night but I can assure you that it was not LAST fucking night. I have a plane to catch and two tickets. NOW.”

    That's a tall order, Agent..."

“It’s Agent Guy, Homeland Security. Midge, now, and I’m not going to ask again. I’m out of patience Captain. That was as nice as I get.”

    "You can't waltz in here and move my inmates without paperwork!"

“Oh, he’s an inmate now, is he? Just what is he charged with?” he asked smugly, resting his hands on the Captain’s desk and looming over him.

    "Uh, well, we had him on 24 hour hold and then he uh...."

“Let me help you out Captain. I’m sure you’ve broken several regulations and bent the hell out of a dozen more. So, unless you want every Fed in California breathing down your neck, you will comply. Start walking.”

    "Right this way, he's in a medical cell."

“If you have touched one hair on his freakish tail…”

    "No, no agent, of course not.  He was refusing to eat, that's all."

“You probably scared the shit out of him, moron. Ever think of that??” His eyes got wide when he rounded the corner and reached the cell. Midge was slunk as far into the corner as possible, hiding under the thin sheet that appeared to be serving as his only blanket. “Sorry I yelled Midge, didn’t realize we were so close. I’m not going to hurt you. Come on out.”

Midge stayed still but lowered the sheet so he could see more clearly. He didn’t answer, simply stared at the new man. He was wearing regular clothes, not the uniforms the guards wore.

“Midge Golding?” Agent Guy asked.

“I am Midge, but not Golding. I do not know that name Sir.”

“Son of Sally and Mitt? Are Misty and Marley your sisters?”

Midge jumped up and ran towards the bars but stopped just out of reach. “How do you know them?” He had not told the guards any names, he was sure of this. The only person he knew of that knew all their names was Scott. “Scott? Did he send you? Are you going to take me home?”

“I’ve been looking for you for years kid, and yeah, I’m taking you home. Who’s Scott? Is he your guardian?” Yet another non-cleared owner to deal with. They didn’t pay him nearly enough.

“Yes. Yes. I must see him, to tell him I am okay. I fear he is very worried” Midge said, excited.

“We’ll handle all of that eventually. I need you to come with me now.”

“Yes sir.” He waited as the guard unlocked the door and then stepped to follow behind the Agent. “Sir?”

“Yes Midge? And you can call me Guy.”

“Will we take my things? May I have my collar?”

“Yeah, we’ll stop and get that on the way out. Come with me.” They followed the Captain to the front desk where they were given an envelope containing Midge’s shoes, bracelet, and few other items. “Missing anything?”

“No Sir, thank you.” He clicked the latch of his collar on securely and sighed in relief.

“A wrist collar, eh? Sure looks fancy. Okay, to the car then, it’s right outside. We’ll have time to get you some food at the airport if you’re hungry as long as traffic isn’t too bad.”

“Airport?”

“Yeah Midge, I’m taking you home.”

“But Sir, I live in Los Angeles, why do I need to go to the airport?”

“I’m taking you back to Texas.”

“But Scott is here and I can not leave him. And Sir Guy, I can not fly, I do not have papers.”

“Yeah, that seems to be what got you into this mess but we’ll deal with that later. I can get you on the flight, just stay close to me and don’t get lost, alright?”

“But we will tell Scott?”

“Midge, one thing at a time. You’re safe and out of that hell-hole jail cell, so don’t worry about anything else, alright? Monday mornings were made for shit like that and it will come soon enough.”

Chapter 102 – Challenge

Zac was relaxing on the couch with a cup of coffee.  Scott had rambled, between sips of his coffee, for over 20 minutes and although he had HEARD the psuedo plan that came out of his mouth, Zac wasn’t quite sure Scott shouldn’t at the very least take a nap and if that failed, a valium.  “Let me get this straight, make sure we’re on the same page.”

“The two of us getting something straight, well,  I’ll do my best.  Shoot.”

        “You want for us, you and me, to go down to this guys place of employment and talk to him?”

“Yep”

        “Not finished.  This Steven dude is the same guy who tortured Midge, then tried to steal him, and THEN broke into your apartment and trashed it.  Right?”

“Yeah.”

        Zac looked straight at Scott.  “And you want US?  Me, who will snap like a twig and you who will run screaming?  To confront a crazy, scary dude?  Alone?  Are you fucking CRAZY???”

“Well when you say it like that…. but what other choice do I have?  He HAS him, he has to!” Scott said, standing and pacing back and forth.  He ran his fingers through his insane hair although whether he was trying to style it or just make it stand up more was anyone’s guess.

        “We’re going to need back-up.  Like, hundreds of big, scary dudes.  And cash, you should just bring a suitcase full.” Zac said, shaking his head in wonder.  “This is insane.”

“Think the L.A. Gay Mens chorus would help?”

        “The drag queens might distract him, at the very least.  Seriously, we can’t do this.”

“I’m just going to talk to him!”

        “Yeah, YOU’RE going to talk but he is going to what, invite you to tea?  He’s CRAZY!!  You think he’s just going to say ‘Yeah, I have him.  Give me $20 and he’s yours?  Thanks for stopping by’???”

“But even if he denies it he’ll KNOW I know and then I can make a plan.  I can’t sit here and do nothing!!”

        “I get that Scott, I get it, but this plan is NOT a plan.  It’s going to accomplish nothing except getting one, or both of us, hospitalized.”

“That wouldn’t help anything, well, it might distract me.  He’s been gone a whole day.  I don’t want to imagine what he’s doing to Midge.  I can’t” he answered sadly.  “And I can’t do anything.  At all.  I need to DO something.”

        “The reward posters were brilliant, you ARE doing something, but I know what you mean.  Come sit down and let’s figure something out.  So, posters are up, and you said Kevin and Avi went back to the mall today?”

“Yeah, just in case he hid really well.  They’ve done two laps already though and haven’t found him.  I don’t think he’s there.  They’re going to sit and eat something in the food court and then check one more time.  They’ll call again after the final lap and let me know.”

        “So that’s all good.  Are you SURE you can’t call the cops Scott?  I mean, I see the issues but what if they know something?  Anything?  I could go with you.”

“Okay, but if it gets hairy I’m leaving.  I don’t want them to know he’s Neko or anything, it could be dangerous for him.”

        “That works.  Bring a picture or two and we’ll try.  Worse that can happen is nothing.  We can put up a few more flyers on the way, too.  Have you eaten?”

“Not really.  No.  I had a muffin.”

        “Food, then police station.  I’m driving.  Oh, and Lee said he’ll help any way he can.  Let’s call him after we talk to the police, maybe he can help us figure out the next step.”

“You sound like you have some sort of plan Zac. I still want to go see Steven though.  Does Lee have any huge, scary brothers or friends?”

        “Actually, I bet he probably does.  I’ll ask him while we’re eating, okay?”

Chapter 103 – Alive

Marley stood staring at the telephone pole, the flyer making it impossible for her to turn away.  She reached one hand out, running her dainty fingers across his face and smoothing the hair out of his eyes that always drove him crazy.  Those eyes, it must be him. Carefully she removed the flyer, easing it away from the staples which held in in place.  She folded it up and put it into her jacket pocket.

Her walk back home gave her time to let the full realization hit her.  He wasn’t dead.  When his master, Mark had returned the next year looking for a new boy she had begged him for information.  She remembered his snarl and it sent shivers down her back even now.  He’d told her Midge had been sent to the fighting rings, certain death for a boy of his size and disposition. 

Later that night she had told her mother, begging her to do something to help him but it had been useless.  Her stepfather had said no, it was done, and that had been the end of her hope.  Marley had accepted that he was dead after a year had passed with still no word.  Then she, too, had been sold, the last of Mitt’s children to leave home.  She had always given thanks that she had been bought by such a wonderful couple and had such a good life.

The wind shifted and she adjusted her wig out of habit, turning towards home to make her plate and think of some way to try to find Midge.  She could not contact his master, could she?  What if he was like Mark?  As she passed the park she remembered the smell from last week and turned in, looking for the McDonald’s girl.  She found the girl with the long hair a moment later, disappointed that the familiar scent wasn’t present this time.  “Excuse me?”

        “Yeah?” Ashley asked.  “Wait, didn’t I see you last week?”

“Yes, yes, you told me I looked like someone.  Is this him?”  She took out the flyer and pressed it open, showing it to the dirty girl.

        “Yeah, parade boy.  I know him.  Can’t blame him for running away from that freaky shit.”

“You know him?  You know Midge?”

        “Yeah, sort of.  He brought me food once, he’s a nice kid.”

“He is my brother.  I am trying to find him.  Can you please tell him Marley is here, I live right there” she said, pointing to a high-rise.

        “Doubt I’ll see him but yeah, if he brings me dinner I’ll pass along your message.”  Crazy as hell.  Every single fucking one of them.

Chapter 104 – Barter

*** Just cause I can, another pic of Lee is above.

Scott had known ahead of time that going to the police wouldn’t accomplish anything and he was right. They’d spent half an hour in the waiting room and then about four minutes with some clerk or officer who didn’t give a DAMN. They’d filled out a piece of paper that meant nothing, and would do nothing, before being shown rather quickly out the door. At least dinner had been good.

    "Lee and 3 of his friends are already at there, at the bar.  He said, and I quote: 'Only one of them is tough but they're all black so if he's as assmunchish as you say, maybe we'll scare him.'"

“He said assmunchish?”

    "Yep."  Zac grinned. 

“I really, really like him” Scott said, a small smile cracking his hard face.

    "So do I."

“I’m glad. Really. I… I’m just glad.”

    "Thanks.  So, to 'Engleterre' or however you say it.  Oh, and, we're not together.  Remember?  Closet.  SMALL, dark closet."

“Oh yeah, thanks. Okay, my lips are sealed. ‘Bro’ voice activating… now.”

    "Dumbass.  I can't with you.  Just worry about Steven and don't mention the two of us screwing, alright?  He's sort of going out on a limb for me, and you, here."

“I get it Zac. I mean, this is me we’re talking about. It’s cool.” He tapped a rhythm on the door dashboard with his fingers, trying to occupy his mind. He knew he should have a plan but he didn’t really. He just wanted to talk to Steven and try to find out if he had him and if he did, what it would take to get him back.

    "Alright, in we go." Zac said, parking the car.  They got out and walked in, immediately spotting Lee and his friends waiting at the bar.

“Hey Lee, thanks for coming man, I appreciate it.”

    "No sweat bro.  Zac, Scott, this is Mac, Dev and little Tony."  Lee nodded slightly at Zac but what he really wanted to do was pull him in for a hug, smell his cologne and nip at his collarbone.  He would have settled for holding his hand, too, but it was impossible.  There was so much for him to lose and he wasn't ready to give up his friends, his family, his job.  He envied those who could, who could come out without losing everything.  He'd never be one of those people though and no matter how good Zac felt right now, no one was worth his life.

Scott gave them each a nod until he reached Little Tony who in no way resembled his name. He was actually taller than Scott and had a solid 100 lbs on him. He nodded and grinned. “Hey.”

    "LT played college ball at UCLA.  Got drafted into the NFL but blew out a knee first year."

“That sucks man, I’m sorry. You must have been good.” Scott said, trying to figure out if they were talking about football.

    "Yeah, yeah, but hell, life happens.  Now I get to use my size for other things.  So this guy broke into your apartment?" LT asked.

“Yeah, totally trashed it. Left some nasty messages for a friend of mine who fell off the grid the other day. I’m worried about him.” Scott answered.

    Lee turned and scanned the room.  "Any sign of him Scott?"

“Nope but I don’t think he works out front, I didn’t see him last time I was here. Let me ask for him.” He got the bartender’s attention and asked for Steven and was told he’d be out in a minute. “So can I buy you guys a drink? Least I can do.” Shots were poured and they were on the second round before he saw Steven come around the corner.

    "You?  What are you doing here?" he asked, looking around to see if anyone from management was nearby.

“I’m looking for Midge.”

    Steven was about to tell him to fuck off until a huge black guy saddled up next to Scott.  He realized then that they were ALL with him.  "Haven't seen him."

“Is that so? And I should believe you why?”

    "Is what it is."

“Cause if you had seen him, I’d be willing to barter for some info.” He had to choose his words so carefully. He didn’t necessarily want Lee’s friends to figure out it was his boyfriend he was looking for, and he sure as hell didn’t want ‘Neko’ to come into the conversation.

    "Would you now?  In that case I'll look harder cause I like to barter.  But, like I said, I haven't seen him.  He's hard to hold onto, you know.  Slippery.  Hard to find if he doesn't want to be."

Scott tried to read into his words, figure out if there were hidden meanings behind those words but he could barely think at all. “I’ll stop by again soon, to check in, see if you’ve heard from him.”

    "Fine man. I gotta get back to work."  Steven hit his fist against the top of the bar and walked off towards the back.

    "Want us to go around back and rough him up?" Dev asked, itching for a fight.  "He might know something."

“What do you think Zac? Get anything?”

    "I don't think he has him Scott.  There was nothing, not even a flicker in his eyes when you mentioned the money.  We can try again but" he shook his head "I don't see it."

    "Hate to say I agree" Lee said. 

“Thank you guys so much for coming out, I really appreciate it. I owe you.” He slapped two more $20’s on the bar. “Next round is on me too. Thanks.”

    "No problem" LT said, waving down the bartender.  "Easy work for free drinks, call me up anytime."

Lee caught up to them just before they reached Zac’s car. Scott slid into the seat and closed the door to give them a little privacy.

    "I'll call you tonight and I can help tomorrow, whatever you guys need done.  Any chance you can make some time for me?" Lee asked, smirking.

    "All kinds of fucking time Lee.  Thanks for the help, I know this was a bad situation all around."

    "You guys were awesome though, Scott's good at it.  I'll call you.  Gotta get back inside."

Chapter 105 – Flight

The excitement of getting out of the cage was starting to fade but Midge didn’t have much time to think about everything that was happening once they dropped off the car and made their way into the airport.

    "Hold onto my elbow and don't let go.  Do not say anything to anyone, do you understand?" Guy asked.

“Yes Sir.” He wrapped one slim hand around Guy’s arm and followed him towards the security line. He didn’t want to go, he didn’t want to be near anyone with a uniform but he had no choice but to hope Guy would keep him safe so he simply zoned out as was expected and did as he was told.

    "Exempted under 19-201...  Bypass required... Yes" and then Guy found himself signing yet another piece of paper. 

What is the point of having technology if the government still requires all these stupid pieces of flutter? A moment later he was buckling Midge into the window seat and sending nasty looks to anyone who even thought about sitting next to him. He didn’t really have a LOT of experience with males, they seemed to be the first ones to be, well, disposed of. This was only the second he’d come across.
Fuck that Williams and the mess he left me!
“We’ll be in Texas in a few hours. Just sit tight and we’ll handle things once we get there. You can talk but just to me and do it softly – no big questions until later, alright?”

“Yes Sir” he whispered. He was doing it, he was leaving. I promised him I would not leave but it is not my choice.

He will understand. He will come to Texas for Christmas and I will see him. He will forgive me and take me home. It sounded nice, but even he didn’t believe it.

    The engines roared to life and he saw Midge flinch.  "Oh yeah, it gets really loud.  Sorry.  Hold on."  Guy rummaged through his bag and grabbed a pair of ear plugs.  "Here ya go.  I never leave home without earplugs and a hat.  They come in handy."

“Thank you.” Midge stared out the window, grabbing the armrests when the plane started to back up from the gate. He watched the safety briefing with awe, doing his best to actually follow along in the brochure. “I do not swim, I do not like the water” he said as she explained the floatation devices.

    "We're not going to be over any water, don't worry about that.  Planes are very safe." 

Every single one of them hates the water. Every. Single. One. At least this one was talking. The last boy he’d rescued had shivered and practically cried the whole way back. Of course, he’d had reason to. He pulled out the copies of Midge’s psych eval and physical to read during the flight, wanting to know what he was up against with this one. He skimmed it over quickly before take-off. Yes, Mark Lehman, jackass. He’d known of him, had followed Midge’s trail on to Jose Vasquez. After that, he’d fallen off the radar. He’d contacted Jose to get him to bring Midge in for registration but Jose had sworn he’d run away. Guy figured he’d have to find out later, although Lord knows the damn Nekos didn’t like to talk. Knowing Jose, Guy didn’t exactly blame him even though it made his job a lot harder. “How you doing over there?”

“I am fine. These are…. clouds?” he asked, looking out the window.

    "Yep."  

Smart, this one. “We’re pretty high up now. How do you like it?”

“I do not like it… I am sorry. I did not mean to be rude. I am thankful for your help.”

    "I don't like flying either, honestly, but I like driving 26 hours a hell of a lot less.  So, here we are, riding a sardine can through the sky.  Nevermind, you don't get that, I'm sure."

“It is amazing, even though I do not like the feeling. To go so far so quickly is wonderful. Scott flies for work a lot, he went to New York City for Thanksgiving and to Chicago last weekend. He said he will take me once we get my papers.”

    "You think so, huh?"  

Yeah right, a master letting his Neko run around the country on a plane? Of course he never thought he’d see the day when grown women carried dogs in their purses, either.

“I do. He does not say things he does not mean. I miss him” he said sadly

    "I know." 

In their warped, brainwashed minds they actually do. Doesn’t make it any easier to send them back though.
“So, I’m going to take you to my house and get you settled for the night. I’ll send the Missus shopping, we’re not really stocked for a male. Sunday we’ll talk, get things planned out and situated, and then Monday you’ll come into the office with me and we’ll get the ball rolling. I know you’re curious, but that’s going to have to tide you over until tomorrow.”

“I will stay at your house?” he asked as the stewardess pushed her cart next to their aisle. “This will be my third night from home.”

    "For the time being, yeah.  We'll sort all that out soon enough.  Hey, you want some peanuts?"

“Yes please… and do they have—?”

    "Milk, yeah, one milk please" he asked the stewardess.  "And a Coke with two bottles of JD, for me."

Chapter 106 – Safehouse

Midge enjoyed his comfortable bed at Sir Guy’s and stayed in it, a pillow hugged to his chest, until he heard who he thought must be Misses Guy up and working in the kitchen. He’d been told last night that he was free to roam the bottom floor of the house but he hadn’t wanted to do anything wrong. Jail was not somewhere he ever wanted to go again. “Good morning Ma’am” he said, padding into the kitchen.

    "Hey sweet thang, how did you sleep?  You sure look better than you did last night, that's for sure.  You hungry?" she asked in a rich southern drawl.

He grinned at her then and nodded his head an emphatic yes. “May I help?” She was voluptuous and curvy and Midge thought she had the prettiest smile he’d ever seen. She also had higher hair than he’d ever seen except for a guy he saw on TV once with a mohawk. Hers was poofy though, and so blond it was almost white, and just…. everywhere. He had decided that he liked and trusted her as soon as he’d been introduced last night when she blew in from the grocery store laden with bags.

    "Oh no sugar, you just sit right there.  Now, what do you like?  I've got lots of bacon and some ham slices, and I could whip you up some french toast.  How does that sound?"

“I like all of those things very much. But I do not want you to go to any trouble.”

    "Oh hush,  we've all gotta eat and it's no problem.  Haven't met a Neko yet who doesn't like some meat for breakfast and no one, human or not, has ever not liked my french toast.  Now, while I cook, why don't you tell me a little bit about yourself.  You've been living in L.A., is that right?"  She was her husbands number one weapon and best spy.  It had always been hard getting the females to talk, many were just scared senseless of him but they always had an easier time opening up to her.  

If I’ve told him once I’ve told him a million times to not be so damn forceful and scary. Wouldn’t hurt him to smile at them once in awhile either.

“Yes I live in Los Angeles with my Scott.”

    "My Scott, isn't that cute?  You like him?"

“Very much. He is wonderful.”

    "Well that does my heart good to hear you say that child.  Yes, yes it does."

“Do you know what will happen? When I may go home?”

    "Oh that's not up to me love, there are things to do before then, you know.  We need to get you some papers and registered first off, plus see to any other issues going on.  You don't worry about that, Guy'll take care of it all for ya.  Now, here's your milk."

“Will I see my family? I am sorry to ask, but it has been hard to wait.”

    "Well coffee's brewing which means that lug of a man will be downstairs any minute now.  Now, I'm gonna give you a piece of advice.  You ready?"

“Yes ma’am.” he said, eyes wide.

    "Don't say anything 'cept 'good morning' to him until he's had at LEAST one cup of coffee, and I wouldn't ask anything hard until he's had most of a second cup.  He'll talk when he's ready, alright?"

“Yes ma’am, thank you. I would not want to make him angry.”

    "Oh that's not the problem honey, I just don't want him to scare you.  He's not a morning person dear, that's all."

“He is coming down the stairs now.”

    "Oh good, we'll be eating in just a minute then" she said, putting the battered bread into the pan.  "Remember, yes and no answers only if you're asked.  Hush now" she said, grinning.

Midge listened to the bread sizzling, as content as he could be without his Scott. This actually felt much like the first few days with him had, although Sir and Missus seemed to understand Nekos much better than Scott had and it was nice to not have to explain himself so much.

    "Mornin'" Guy mumbled, sitting down and cupping the coffee cup which appeared in front of him with two hands.  He sent a nod over towards Midge but knew Kimberly had probably warned him.  It wasn't his fault he could barely breathe in the mornings, must less talk or think.

    "Morning love, here's your breakfast" she said, setting a plate down in front of him and then one for Midge.  "Eat up boys, let me know if you need anything else."

Midge ate his bacon and then his ham, enjoying every bite. He had not had much to eat the past few days and his nose twitched at the delicious smells. He was quiet and used his manners until he bit into the first piece of toast. “Oh god” he murmured softly.

    Mrs. Guy laughed, then gave him a wink.  "Told you.  Good, ain't it?"

“This is amazing. Thank you so much” he replied.

    "What he said" Guy mumbled.  "Thanks.  More coffee?"

    "You got it dear" she answered, topping up his cup.

Midge took a deep breath, enjoying the smell and watched it pour into Mister Guy’s cup, steaming.

    "You want a cup of coffee Midge?  I should have offered" she said.

“If I may, I like it very much. Only one, please” he answered excitedly.

    "Like him more all the time" Guy muttered.  "Kid after my own heart."

    "Alrighty, here you go.  Now you boys finish up your breakfast and then we can have a nice talk in the living room, isn't that right Guy?"

    "Yeah, yeah, after coffee."

Chapter 107 – Answers

“Okay Midge, let’s start from the beginning.”  Guy pulled a binder onto his lap and opened it up, flipping through to the middle.  “My name is Agent Guy.  You do not need to know my first name, nor my wife’s but you will be provided with my phone number when you leave.  I am part of the Neko Containment Force, NCF for short.  We are a very small part of a larger part of the government, called the Department of Homeland Security.  I know none of this makes much sense to you, but bear with me.”

        Guy cleared his voice before continuing.  “You are currently in violation of several statutes, which we must remedy immediately.  You are over the age of 18 and not registered so this is the first thing we need to handle.  We will fill out the appropriate paperwork and you will be provided with a social security card and birth certificate.

“I will get papers?  But I do not have money.” This was too important to mess up, Midge wanted to understand exactly what was happening.

        “They don’t cost money, Midge.”

“But my mother said they were very expensive.  That she got them from Williams but I would have to talk with a Guy.”

        “Williams was dirty Midge, do you know what that means?”

“No.”

        “He was charging for papers that should have been free and pocketing the money for himself.”

“But she sold me, and Misty, so that the others could have papers.  But you say she did not need the money for their papers so did not need to sell me?” he asked, his eyes filling with tears.

        “Yeah.  I’m sorry Midge, really.”

“So why did my masters not get my papers as was promised?  If they would not cost money?  When I was sold, Mark told my mother that he would buy my papers, it was worked into my price.  He did not though, he sold me before, did you say 18?”

        “Yeah, he sold you to Jose.  Can you tell me what happened then?  And please tell me the truth Midge, nothing bad is going to happen, I promise.  I need to know.”

“He sold me to Trent.”

        “You were sold?  You went straight from Jose to Trent?  When was this?”  He picked up his pencil, ready to write.

“I do not know when.  It was spring.  I went with Mark when I was 14, it was winter.  I stayed until the next spring, so I think I was 15 then.  Jose kept me longer, two springs so I was 17?  Then I stayed with Trent until he died and that was 2 years or maybe not quite.  He died in February and I stayed there awhile, then left.  Steven found me and kept me for several months.  Then I escaped and found Scott.”

        “Okay, hold on.  So you went with Mark in the winter of 2006 which matches my records of December 8th.  Spring of 2008, it was actually March 29th that he registered your sale, you went with Jose.  And you say you were there until sometime early in 2010?  I visited him late that year and he said you were gone, so that checks out.  Do you know Trent’s last name?”

“Bunker I think.  I am not quite sure if I remember the spelling.”

        “And he died in February of this year, 2012?”

“Yes.”

        “He never registered you or got you papers. Damn Midge, I looked all over the place for you.  Where were you living with him?  In L.A.?”

“Yes.”

        “And who is this Steven guy?  He bought you?”

“No, he just found me and took me.  He locked me up.  He tried to steal me from Scott when he saw me at a restaurant but I escaped.  Then he broke into Scott’s apartment and destroyed things.  He is not a nice man.”

        “Haven’t met many owners that were.  So okay, what happened with Scott?  I see you have a collar, but he hasn’t registered either you or your sale.”

“He does not know how.  He did not buy me, I gave myself to him so he could keep me safe.  He wanted to bring me here for Christmas and we were going to try to find out how to get my papers.”

        “Is that so?  What’s his last name and address?”

Midge gave him all the information he had, then excused himself to use the bathroom.

        Kimberly had been quiet throughout the interview but spoke up now.  “He’s been through hell and high water, that one.  He’s sweet though.  What’ll happen?”

        “I don’t know.  He has a chance, we could save this one.”  He hushed as Midge came back and curled up in the recliner.  “Missus, could we have some of your famous tea?” he asked before flipping to the next page in his binder.  He closed his binder though, then looked at Midge.  “Look, most of the Nekos I rescue are registered and owned and if the owner has filled out the proper paperwork, I have to return them except in very specific instances.  Do you understand?”

“So I would go back if I was registered but I am not properly owned?”

        “Exactly, so you don’t have to go back.  You could be free.”

“But…. I want to be free and with Scott.”

        “Why him?  Why go back if you don’t have to?”

“Because I love him.”

        “Holy JESUS in heaven!” Kimberly exclaimed from the kitchen, running back into the living room and putting her hand over her heart.  “Did you HEAR that?”

        “Calm down Missus, you know how these things go.”

        “But none of them have ever said THAT!  It’s so sweet.”

        “Okay Midge, we’re done for now.  We’ll go into the office tomorrow and start getting you squared away.  You can go to your room and watch TV, or whatever you’d like to do for awhile, alright?”

“Yes Sir.”  He wanted to ask if they would call Scott tomorrow but he held his tongue.  Visions of a life without being sold swirled through his head and for the first time in a long time, he allowed himself to think of his family.  Maybe I can at least see them.  I will ask tomorrow.

Chapter 108 – Flip

*** Suicide warning but DON’T panic!!!

Midge sat quietly while Mister Guy typed a lot and swore at his printer and computer. He had a million questions but it didn’t seem to be the right time to ask.

    "Okay, Midge Golding, right?"

“I do not understand Golding. Why is that my name?”

    "It's your mother's name and I'd like you to use it unless there's a damn good reason not to.  Y'all are hard enough to track as it is."

“It is fine. How do you spell it?”

    "Why?"

“I want to be able to read and write it.”

    "It's G-O-L-D-I-N-G. You know, if you want to stay free we can get you enrolled in some education, teach you how to read, try to get your GED eventually."

“I know how to read, although I am not perfect. I have much to learn.”

    "Wait, you what?  Who taught you?" Guy asked, amazed.

“I am sorry, if it is wrong. I did not know.”

    "Hell no it's not wrong but you'd be the first.  Sorry, I get sort of animated when I'm excited, I'm not mad.  Always wondered if y'all could read if someone taught you.  Where'd you learn?"

“Scott taught me. He gave me apps and games on my phone and bought me books.”

    Guy leaned back in his chair, thinking.  He'd never met an owner who gave their Neko's one ounce of independence.  Sure, some of them weren't all bad.  Hell, Midge's sister had one of the nicer ones he'd come across, a couple who seemed to treat her pretty well for a Neko.  But teaching one to read?  He thought back to the comments on the plane, about Midge saying Scott wanted to get his papers, to his wife's reaction to his mention of loving him. 

    Ten years ago none of this would have bothered him.  When he was fresh out of the academy he stamped them and sent them on their way without a care in the world.  He followed the regulations, insane as some of them were, and minded his own business.  They were just Nekos, a troublesome problem that needed to be managed.  Then he'd met Jenny. 

    Jenny's owner had brought her in for papers and he'd had to turn his head in order to not lose his lunch.  She was skin and bones and obviously sick, shivering and scared and acting as if she'd never left her house before.  He'd demanded a private meeting with her, knowing he could be reprimanded but not caring.  After an hour of her gentle one-word answers he knew enough and what he knew changed everything for him.

    He confiscated her, went through miles of red tape and enough meetings with his supervisors in D.C. that the damn airline security recognized him and said 'hello'.  She'd been placed in a hotel but over the first few weeks she got only worse, not better.  He'd contacted the only family he knew of, a sister, but she could not and would not take her back into her home.  His wife had begged him to let her move in, told him that she needed people, contact, interaction.  Then, he hadn't been willing to bend or break the rules.  Then, he'd truly believed everything Williams had put in his reports.

    He'd gotten the call early one morning from the police, notifying him that she had jumped to her death, diving off the hotel balcony.  Those words, his failure, had spurred him to change tactics, to learn everything he could, to start over.  He'd interviewed every single one that came in to get registered, visited most of them in their homes after new sales had been recorded and filed.  And yes, he'd pulled a few out of bad situations.

    Most of the ones he rescued, either from the police, the streets, or their owners eventually went back into service.  They needed it, somehow, and seemed happy enough if their owners were kind.  Honestly, they were mostly happy even if they weren't.  Nekos fascinated him, and this one in front of him more than any of the others.  A Neko who could read?  Who had been through so much abuse yet answered his questions boldly, with eyes raised?  A Neko who loved his master?

    The problem was, even if this 'Scott' was the most amazing guy on the planet, his sale wasn't authorized.  He had to track down the relatives of his last owner, because they officially owned him now.  Midge couldn't just pick who he wanted.  Besides, Scott hadn't been through the training, hadn't been background checked and registered as an owner.  God, the paperwork and bullshit this was going to cause!

    But maybe, just maybe, it was worth giving this guy a call and scheduling a meeting.  He hadn't been doing this job for 15 years without learning to read people and not much got by him anymore.  As much as he liked the idea of a free Neko, the government certainly didn't and if Midge could actually go with someone who treated him well.... that was probably best for everyone.  Hell only knew how he was going to make it happen though.  First things first....

    "Okay Midge, tell me more about Scott."

Chapter 109 – Texas

Zac was worried, really worried.  Scott was sitting on the couch, exactly where he’d been when he left yesterday, headphones still on, eyes still red.  He dumped the Starbucks and bag of bagels on the table and walked over, lifting off the headphones and putting them over his own ears instead.  It was… wow.  It had to be Midge, because it was definitely the QuarnerStones but that voice was….  He took them off, sitting them on the coffee table. “No” he said, when Scott reached for them.

“Give him back.”

        “You need a break.  You need food, and a shower, and to get out of this house.  Aren’t you supposed to be packing for Texas?”

“Are you fucking crazy?  I am NOT leaving L.A. unless it’s with him.  He’s out there, alone or probably much worse and I…. I can’t leave him.”

        “Scott, you always go home for Christmas.  Your mother will kill you.”       

“Let her.  I don’t care.”  He reached for the headphones again, his only connection to Midge but his hand was slapped away as Zac scooped them up.  “I need to hear him.  It’s the rough cut, it’s not perfect yet but he’s…. he’s there.  This was Thursday, the day I lost him.  And the words, the song.  It’s….”

        “It’s hurting you more than helping, I think.”  Zac replied sadly.  “I’m sorry I can’t stay, I have to get to work.  You have to at least get in the shower before I go.  Please?”

Scott looked up, the weight in his chest so heavy that even moving his head felt like a battle.  “Later.”

        “No, now.  I don’t want to come back tonight and find you here, exactly the same.  Shower, shave, put on PANTS and then eat some breakfast.  Minimum.  That’s the minimum, got it? Get up.”

“I can’t, okay?  I know you don’t get it but I can’t.  All I can imagine is him chained up somewhere, hurt and scared.  And I’m sitting on my fancy fucking couch drinking Starbucks and that is NOT okay.  I have to hurt at least a little bit, don’t you see that?  I can’t…. it can’t be all him.  It’s not fair!”.

        “I know, it’s not.  But you hurting isn’t helping Midge.  He wouldn’t want you to feel like this, it would make things worse if he thought you were like this.

Scott’s phone rang and he let it go to voicemail before it instantly rang again.  He picked it up, glancing at the number.  “Texas?  Not in my address book though.  Probably some random relative.  I don’t care” he mumbled before putting it back down.  The third time it rang he threw his head back in frustration and then answered.  “Hello?”

        “Scott?”

“Yes.”

        “This is Agent Guy.  I’d like to talk to you about Midge.”

“MIDGE?!!?”  He sat up and grabbed at Zac with his free hand.  “Do you have him?  Is he safe?  Where is he?” he asked.

        “He’s with me, and safe.  We have a lot to discuss but he’s told me that he would like me to contact you.”

“Can I talk to him?  Please?  Is he there?  What happened?  Wait, you’re Agent Guy?”

        “Yes.  He is here, and you can say hello once we finalize some details.”

“Agent Guy?  A Guy?  You’re ‘A Guy in Texas’ he told me about?”

        “Yep, that’s me.  Those Nekos, always so literal.  Funny.  Now, we need to meet.”

Scott knew it was completely inappropriate but the stress of the past 5 days finally broke and he laughed.  “A guy.”  Finally he composed himself a little bit.  “Where are you?  Where do we meet?  I want to see him.  Please.”

        “Midge tells me you might be willing to come to Dallas.”

“You’re in Dallas?  Absolutely, I mean, I’m in Los Angeles so it’ll… yeah I can come.”

        “When works for you?”

“Today.  Today!  I’m fuck…sorry!  I’m coming now.  I just have to get a flight and…. oh my god I was so scared.  I thought Steven had him or… god I didn’t know.  What happened?”

        “LAPD got ahold of him.  He had a rough few days in jail but he’s fine now.  You have my number, call me back when you have an ETA to Dallas and we’ll plan where to meet.”

“Can I talk to him?  Please?”

        “Yeah, hold on a second.  Midge, you wanna say ‘hi?’

“Hello Scott.  I missed you” Midge said softly.

“Oh god MIdge.  I… I missed you too.  I was so scared.”

“I am sorry I could not call you before.  I did not mean to leave but…”

“It’s okay, it’s okay.  Really.  Please don’t apologize, I’m just so glad you’re safe.  Are you?  Are you okay?”

“I am fine.  Are you coming to get me?”

“Yes little one, I’ll be there soon.  As soon as I possibly can, okay?”

“Alright.  Thank you for coming.  I will see you soon.”

“Music to my ears love, music to my ears.  I’ll call Agent Guy once I have a flight, okay?”

“Good bye Scott.”

“Good bye.”  He stared at his phone a moment even after he had disconnected, then looked back at Zac.  “He’s okay.  I’m going to Texas to get him.  Guy called me.”

        “That’s what he meant!”

“Huh?”

        “I called Uncle Sebastian, I was desperate.  I thought maybe, just maybe he could help, you know?  But he didn’t, he just said for you to call Guy and I thought he was being an ass and ignored it. I didn’t know…”

“It’s so fucked up and funny.  Agent Guy, don’t know who he’s working for but I’m going to ask him a LOT of questions when I get there, trust me.  I have to go.  I have to shower and pack and get to the airport!”

        “I’ll call Esther for you on the way to work and have her get you a flight.  You need to take care of the nasty.  Call me later, okay?  Let me know how it goes.  I’ll cross my fingers.”

“Thanks Zac, really.  I….”

        “Yeah, yeah, you owe me.  Buy me an Island.”

Chapter 110 – Probation

Scott figured he had probably broken at least 6 traffic laws on the way but he hadn’t been caught and that was all that mattered.  He slammed the door of his rental a little harder than he probably had to and took the stairs two at a time before banging on the rather nondescript door.

        “Scott?” Agent Guy asked, opening the door.

“Yes.  Agent Guy?”       

        “It’d be creepy that I knew your name otherwise.  Come in.”

Scotts eyes scanned the nondescript room with a few chairs and a desk tucked in the corner.  No Midge .  He followed the agent through another door which seemed to be his office.  No Midge.   “Where is he?” he asked, his voice cracking.

        “He’s home watching a movie.  My wife’s a musical buff and he’s getting a thorough education in all things broadway.  Have a seat.”

“I thought I could see him” he said, slumping into the chair.

        “Soon enough, maybe even in the morning.”

“No!  No, you mean like tomorrow? No.  I can’t… please?” he begged.

        “Relax, we need to talk and we’ll see how things go, alright?”

Scott knew that this ‘Guy’ was in charge and he would have to suck it up and chill out.  “Sure.”

        “So I did some checking on you, you come up clean.  Ever been in any trouble with the law?”

“No, never.”

        “Tell me, really briefly cause trust me, he talked a LOT, how you met Midge.”

“He was hiding in the alley near my apartment.  I brought him inside to get him dry and something to eat and well, he never left.  We’ve been together a couple months now.”

        “And about the collaring?”

“He wanted me to, said he couldn’t visit his sister otherwise, that it wasn’t safe.  So we exchanged bracelets because it seemed important to him.”

        “Exchanged?”

Scott pulled up his sleeve and showed Guy his. “Yeah, granted his is a little more fancy but… yeah.”  He spun it around his wrist, a habit he’d developed whenever he was trying to think.

         Guy had been speechless more the past two days than in the last year combined and that included him forgetting his wife’s mother’s birthday which was apparently important and worthy of a tongue lashing.    “He says you know nothing about Nekos.”

“Only what he told me.  I tried google but that was absolutely useless.”

        Guy laughed, a deep bone jangling laugh that went down to his toes.  “You are something else, that’s for sure.  So there are rules, regulations, etc etc etc” he said, waving his hands around.  “Pretty much a shitload of paperwork and me, breathing down your neck now and then.  So here’s what we’re going to do.  You are on probation, son.  I am going to let you two see each other and I will be watching and listening to EVERYTHING.  If he is the least bit fearful or scared of you, you are going to walk back onto a plane.  If even what HALF of y’all say is true, I’m willing to bend some rules and see about keeping you two together.”

“That’s fine, he’s not scared of me, but why?  Can’t he choose?  Why do you get to choose for him?”

        “Well, you know about Trent?”

Scott nodded.

        “Well he apparently bought Midge which makes him an owner and upon his death, ownership should revert to whoever he decided, or whoever took his estate.”  He watched Scott’s breath halt, then continued.  “But, and this is a big but, Trent didn’t record the sale or register Midge, so I can, if I want, sort of pretend that never happened.  Jose sure isn’t looking for him and he’s the only one who would have rights to him if the sale wasn’t proper.”

“Damn this is complicated.  What is the deal?  Are you with the government or something?”

        He flashed his badge for Scott to see.  “Homeland Security, although that’s fairly recent.  Before that we were under the DoD.”

“The army?  Why?”

        During the World Wars, the DoD rounded up just about every Neko they could find for spy work.  You can imagine how helpful they were in the field, with their crazy ears, being able to see at night and being so sneaky.  They did a lot of good work, but most never came home.  Afterwards there were so few of them that I guess no one really bothered to change it.  Now it’s me, my secretary, and my supervisor in D.C. and that’s it.“

“How many are there left?”

        “By my counts, adults and children?  153.  I’m sure there are some I don’t know about, but that’s my best guess.”

“Wow.  That’s uh, a lot to take in.  Wait, do you know where Marley is?  He would do just about anything to see her.  Is she still at home maybe?  Has he seen his family?”

        “I know where she is but I can’t tell you that.  She’s not at home.  I offered to take him by his mother’s today, so they could hash out some things but he said he’d rather I call you.  Surprised the hell out of me, honestly.”

“You said the LAPD got him.  What happened?  He’ll tell me he’s okay because, well, that’s just the way he is but… is he?”

        “You really care, don’t you?  He wasn’t real good when I got there, no.  They’d done a shitload of tests, psych and medical and had him in a crappy cell.  At least he was alone.  Apparently they restrained him a good bit too, which given his history must have, well, sucked.  He’s alright now though, but I’m glad I got there when I did.”

“Thank you.”

        “If he goes home with you, you MUST call me IMMEDIATELY if he goes missing.  Not that night, not the next fucking morning, not on Christmas.  Immediately.  Got me?”

“Absolutely.”

        “We’ll go over the other rules and shit if I decide to let you take him.  Now, why don’t you go get a hotel and some dinner and we’ll get together tomorrow.”

Scott didn’t want to wait, he wanted to shake this asshole until he caved but he was stuck, and he knew it.  “Could I talk to him again?  Tonight?”

        “Yeah.  I’ll put you on speaker though, I’ll be listening.”

“That’s fine.  Thanks.”

        “We’ll call you.  See you tomorrow Scott.”

*** By popular demand there’s a 110 and a half, but it’s Lee and Zac, not Scomiche so feel free to skip if you want.  But, it’s there, so, yeah.

Chapter 111 – Trial

Scott was really glad he knew his way around Dallas pretty well because otherwise, even with directions, he would have had a hard time finding Guy’s house. He was glad the agent had decided over their phone call last night that he could come to the house; Scott took it as a good sign that they hadn’t met at his office.

He parked his car to the side of the long driveway and walked to the door, then knocked. He didn’t realize he was holding his breath until it opened.

    "Well aren't YOU a tall drink of water?" Kimberly drawled.  "Yes, yes, you come on in now.  Welcome."

“Thank you ma’am.”

    "Manners too.  Mama must have raised you right.  Come on into the living room now and have some tea and make yourself at home."

He stepped in a bit, taking in his surroundings while looking for his boy. He turned and stepped into the living room and there he was, his Midgey, sitting on an armchair, nervous but smiling. He didn’t know what to do, wasn’t sure what Agent Guy would or wouldn’t approve of but he knew he wanted a hug in the worst way.

Midge looked up, chewing on his lip. He wanted to run over but wasn’t sure he could until Scott grinned and nodded his head, almost imperceptibly. He jumped up and covered the distance in 4 large steps, then leaped up and wrapped his arms around his neck and his legs around his waist.

Scott giggled, holding onto Midge and tilting his head down to have as much contact as possible, all thoughts of Guy pushed aside.

“You came” Midge whispered.

“Always. As soon as I could. I was so worried about you.”

Midge answered by finding Scott’s lips with his own, first tentatively and then more brave, his tongue darting out to play.

Scott backed up until his calves hit the couch and sat down, Midge still completely wrapped against him.

    "Well isn't that a nice way to say hello!" Kimberly said, giggling.  "You two are so sweet I can hardly STAND it.  Guy, look at that!"

     "I'd rather not."        

    "Oh stop, it's the 21st century." she scolded playfully.

    "I don't care they're gay, I just don't wanna see anybody going at it in my living room, that's all."  He cleared his throat in an attempt to get the boys to take a break to breathe.

“I am sorry” MIdge said, looking sheepishly back at Guy and crawling off Scott’s lap. “I did not mean… I am sorry.”

    "OH that's alright sweet thang, we know you missed him.  Bet you boys could use a drink after all that, now couldn't you?  Let's have a little talk and get to know each other" Kimberly gushed, smiling.

“Yeah, sorry” Scott said, bright red. “I uh, yeah.” He grabbed his tea with one hand and held Midge’s with the other, grinning as he scooted closer and closer.

    "Y'all are SOOOO cute" Kimberly sighed.

    "Now that all of THAT is out of the way, thought it would be nice to go over a few things and hang out awhile."  Guy said.  "I put in for his papers, they should be here in a few days.  Until then, he can't leave the state.  Now your folks are in Arlington, right?"

“Yes, born and raised. We were going to spend the holidays there, so it’s no problem staying close. I brought some of Midge’s things so we’re good to hang out for the rest of the week.”

“Did you bring my sketchbook?” Midge asked, hopeful.

    Guy noticed right away how forthright and free Midge was, almost interrupting Scott to ask a question and that it didn't seem to bother or surprise Scott at all.

“I did. Your pencils and pastels too. I have your phone, a few books, your stuffed Marley, and plenty of your clothes. Pretty much everything. I brought your bag with me in the car, just in case you needed things and were going to stay.”

“Thank you so much. I would like very much to draw and I have missed Marley but I am glad she did not come to jail with me, it was not good. But wait, why would I stay? I…” he looked to Scott and then Agent Guy, unsure whether Scott didn’t want him back or if Agent Guy wouldn’t let him.

    "My decision Midge, just wanted to make sure you were going to be safe and happy if you went back home with him."  Agent Guy answered.

He was right, Scott wanted him back. He curled on the couch, his head resting on Scott’s thigh and smiled when his hand came down to play in his hair. “I want to be with Scott.”

    "I know Midge and trust me, that does matter in my decision, alright?"  His phone rang and he stood, walking towards the dining room "Excuse me a minute."

    "So, Scott, you must be thrilled to be reunited.  Midge is a special boy, we've both come to like him a lot while he's been with us."

“I can’t thank you, and Agent Guy enough for finding him and getting him out of there. I…. I was literally worried something awful had happened, that someone had caught him and I’d never see him again. I… I almost can’t believe I’m here with him now. It’s surreal, a little.” He looked down at Midge’s face, smiling and teary-eyed at the same time.

It was over. Scott was here and everything would be okay. He would have papers and be safe and Mister Guy would help him if he ever got in trouble again. He focused on Scott’s fingers running down towards his neck, tickling him gently before running back up between his ears and for the first time in almost a week, relaxed.

    Kimberly's eyes flew open and her hand covered her mouth in shock.  "Is he?" she mouthed towards Scott, then pointed down at Midge  "purring?"

Scott just nodded, his face almost splitting from his wide smile as he continued comforting Midge.

    Guy walked back in a moment later, falling silent when his wife motioned to him.  And then he heard it, a sound he knew probably existed but had never heard, not in all his years of dealing with Nekos.  There was no question as to what it was though, and not a doubt left in his mind that he was doing the right thing.  These boys were going to spend Christmas together with Midge's new family.

Chapter 112 – Papers

Two days after Christmas Scott was once again parking and walking up the nondescript stairs to Agent Guy’s office. The difference was that this time, Midge was by his side. He knocked and opened the door at the gruff ‘Come in’. “Hey Agent Guy.”

“Hey Scott, Midge. Come on in, have a seat. I have a few things for Midge and he’ll need to sign a few things.” He opened the manilla folder on his desk and pulled out a Texas birth certificate, handing it to Midge. “You’re officially an American, and human to boot. Congrats Mr. Golding. Here is your Social Security card, you’ll need to sign the bottom.”

Midge could barely hold the pen, although he had practiced his signature for almost an hour last night, preparing for this moment. Finally he put pen to paper and signed his name. “Thank you.”

“No problem. Now I need a few pictures. One to submit for your state identification card and one for my files. I’ll print you out a temp card today and your fancy one will be mailed from the Department of Motor Vehicles in about a week. Sit in the metal chair for me and smile.” He walked over to the camera on the tripod and snapped a few pictures. “Scott I need one of you too.” Alright, while that prints and processes, tell me about your Christmas, Midge.“

“It was really fun. Scott’s family is very nice. His mother is an amazing cook and his sister is very sweet. I have a present for you.” he said, pulling a slim package from his bag.

“You didn’t need to do that Midge. It says it’s for me and the Missus, want me to open it now or wait until I’m home with her?”

“I would like you to open it now and see if you like it.” Midge answered.

“I like you kid, I really do. Alright.” He slid the paper off the frame to reveal a beautiful drawing of their kitchen. Kimberly was standing with a carafe of coffee in her hand while Guy sat at the table with a cup in his hands, smiling up at her. “This is really good Midge, I uh, I don’t know what to say, really. I love it and she is going to go crazy. It’ll go up on the wall for sure. Thank you.”

“You are welcome. Thank you for helping me.”

Guy took a few deep breaths to get his emotions in check.  “So, you were telling me about Christmas – how was the day?”

“It was a joy tornado. Everyone was very happy and they even got me presents which was very sweet of them. I got some gift cards that I can use to buy things… right Scott?”

“Yep. We’ll go shopping back home so we don’t have to fit it all in the suitcases” he answered.

“Joy tornado is about the best description of Christmas I’ve ever heard. Glad you had a good one Midge. You guys heading out soon?”

“Yeah, probably tomorrow. I have to head to NYC not long after New Years and I want some time to get things organized in L.A. We sort of left it in chaos with, well, everything that happened” Scott said.

“Hey, I want you to know that I talked to your Steven. I explained a few things to him and you don’t need to worry about him. At all. If you see or hear from him, let me know. I’m giving you a copy of the rules but let me go over the main ones really quickly. You’re to check in at least twice a year. If Midge goes missing you are to contact me immediately. If you lose any paperwork, same thing. You must keep his Neko identity a secret to the best of your ability. Got it?”

“We can do that” Scott said. “Thanks for all your help, having an ID is literally a game-changer.”

Chapter 113 – Marley

It was a bit surreal to walk into the apartment and Midge stopped just inside the door.

“You okay?” Scott asked.

“Yes, it is just, it has been awhile since I was here. I left to go to the studio weeks ago and now I am home again.”

Scott wrapped him into a hug and ran his fingertips through his hair. “You’ve been through a lot this month. I’m so sorry. You’re safe now though.” He stepped back and brought the bags in while he kept half an eye on his boy.

“I should put my things away” he said, taking his smaller bag in and laying it on his bed. He pulled out his Marley and put her against his pillow before taking out his stash of gift cards. “Scott?”

“Yeah” He peeked his head in Midge’s doorway.

“Can we give my Starbucks card to Ashley so she can be dry and have hypermilk and breakfast?”

“Ashley from the park? Yeah, of course. You’re such a sweetheart.”

“We can go soon please?”

“Yeah, before dinner if you want to. I just need to make some phone calls and touch in with the band, figure out the next shows and then we’ll go.”

“I will take a cat nap if that is okay. Thank you Scott.”

“No problem. Sleep tight.”

---

Midge placed his hand gently on Scott’s arm as he took off his seat belt. “I would like to go alone, if it is okay?”

“I can come with you.”

“I know, but I must not be afraid. You will be able to see me if I need help.”

“You’re right Midge, you’re right. I don’t want you to be afraid. Go ahead love.”

Midge stepped out of the car and quickly hopped the low fence so he could walk directly to Ashley’s tree. “Hello Ashley.”

“Midge? Hey buddy” she croaked, her voice ragged.

“You are not well?”

“Sick, but the food smells great. Hand it over parade boy.”

He sat down next to her and opened the bag, peeling back the wrapper and handing her the sandwich. “Can I do anything for you? I can ask Scott to take me for things if you need it. Or we can take you to a doctor?”

“Just need to eat and rest. I’ll live.” She gulped down her drink and ate quickly, barely chewing her food.

“I brought you some cards so you can go get a treat and be dry if it rains.”

Ashley took the gift cards and grinned, then shoved them into the inside pocket of her jacket. “Thanks. Heard you ran away.”

“I was taken, I did not run. But Scott has found me and everything is okay. How did you know?”

“Some girl showed me one of the flyers he posted.” She leaned her head back against the tree, her eyes closing. “Looking for you.”

“Yes Scott was looking for me. I will come back in the morning and check on you and bring you some things to help you. I am sorry you are sick. Sleep well Miss Ashley.” He gathered up the trash and walked away slowly, wishing there was more he could do. When he sat back in the car he continued to stare towards her.

“Everything okay?” Scott asked.

“She is sick. She knew I was lost, said you came looking for me.”

“I didn’t talk to her, didn’t see her when I came by to put the flyers up.”

“Perhaps I misunderstood. She is not well. Can we come back tomorrow and check on her?”

“Absolutely.”

---

The next morning Midge convinced Scott to stop by the pharmacy for a few things to add to his care package. He had put together some crackers, granola bars, a few bottles of water and his stuffed Marley into a bag and added the Advil and cough drops. At Starbucks he bought an extra cup of hot tea and a sandwich and carried it all towards Ashley’s tree where she was curled up, still sleeping. “Miss Ashley?”

“Midge? You again?” she asked, struggling to sit up.

“I brought some things to help you. Here is some tea.” He handed her the still-warm cup and placed the bag of things beside her after removing Marley. I thought you might not want to be alone. I will come back for her tomorrow if that is okay?“

She dug through the bag and popped a few Advil, smiling as the tea washed them down. “This tastes SO good. Thanks kid. Yeah, you can come back. Hey, what should I tell the girl if I see her again?”

“What girl?”

“The one that was looking for you. Your sister.”

Midge’s eyes went wide and his lips pursed. “You have seen my sister?”

“Yeah, she showed me the flier. Didn’t I tell you? Damn fever, I don’t know. She walks by almost every night, sometimes she says hi and asks if I’ve seen you. I didn’t tell her shit though.”

Midge was confused and knew Ashley must be confused but did not want to be rude. “I think you are mistaken.”

“Hell if I know. All I know is she looks like you and kinda talks like you. There’s a resemblance is all I’m saying. I’ll tell her I don’t know anything, no sweat.”

“She walks here at night?”

“Yeah, in the evening. Usually around 6:30 or so.”

“If I bring dinner will you show her to me?”

“Yeah, yeah. Don’t blame you for wondering who’s got their eyes out for ya.”

Midge practically jumped up and ran back to the car. “Scott! Scott!”

“What? You okay?” he asked, alarmed.

“She says she has talked to my sister” he said, grabbing at Scott’s arm and bouncing in the seat.

“What?” Scott was as confused as Midge. “Misty?”

“It can not be. What if it is Marley?”

“What if she’s crazy? Honey, don’t get your hopes up. She’s a homeless girl who doesn’t even know you’re a Neko, right? How would she know Marley?”

“I do not know. She said a girl showed her the flier you made and was looking for me.”

“Why wouldn’t she just call? My number was on it. If it’s Marley wouldn’t she call you?”

Midge’s face fell. “Yes, if… I would call her if I had her number.”

“And what, Marley was walking around L.A.? Talking to homeless girls in parks? Isn’t she owned? I mean, most of them don’t…” he said, hating that he had to be the voice of reason when Midge was so excited.

“I understand what you are saying. You are right, it is not possible.” He finally fastened his seat belt and forced a smile. “It was a nice thought.”

“I’m sorry Midge. We will look for her, I promise, but I don’t know how to find her. We’ll do whatever we can. I’m sorry to dash your hopes.” He took Midge’s smaller hand in his then brought it to his lips and kissed the top of it.

“I promised her dinner. I should bring it, even though we will not see Marley.”

“We can do that. We’ll stop by after rehearsal. But no more McDonald’s, how about Chipotle?”

“That sounds very good. Thank you!

---

“Six o’clock, as promised” Scott said, parking.

“Will you come with me?” Midge asked.

“Sure.” He grabbed the extra bag for Ashley and followed Midge the long way around, glad he didn’t have to jump the fence.

“Hey Midge, and uh, master.”

“No, he does not like it, please call him Scott.” Midge sat down next to Ashley and handed her the bag. “Are you feeling better?”

“I am. Thanks for everything. She doesn’t always come, so I can’t make any promises.”

“It is fine. It is not her, but I would like to see her if she passes by.” Midge answered.

“I’ll keep my eyes open” she said, digging into her bowl and eating heartily.

“Is there anything we could do to help you? I mean, why are you on the streets?” Scott asked.

“I’m in a park, if you haven’t noticed, and I’m okay being here. I like being on my own and it beats where I was. Eventually I’ll have to figure something out, I guess, but I sure as hell ain’t going home. Hey, there she is!” She pointed with her fork at the small woman walking briskly around the corner.

Midge stood and watched as she got a bit closer. He put his hand on Scott’s shoulder for support and gasped when he could finally clearly see her face. “Marley?” he whispered. He dashed off, running towards the fence and clearing it easily. “Marley?” he asked, stopping about 10 feet away from the girl.

“Midgey?!!??” She launched herself forward, falling into his arms. “You are okay!?? You are alive.” She hugged him tightly until she saw Scott and pushed away. “I am so sorry if you are in trouble.” she whispered, ashen, and stepped back.

Scott walked up and put his hand on Midge’s shoulder. “It’s really her?”

“Yes. It is my Marley!” he exclaimed, bouncing on his feet. “It is okay Marley, he is very kind. I am not in trouble.” He turned to Scott, momentarily afraid he had overstepped but was reassured by his grin.

“I’m Scott. It’s so nice to meet you” he said, extending his hand.

Marley stretched hers out timidly, then shook his hand. “It is nice to meet you Sir.”

Midge jumped towards her again, wrapping Marley back into his arms and they stood, their happy tears mingling as they rolled down their cheeks.

“I told you it was her” Ashley said, extending out the stuffed Marley towards Midge. “Don’t want you to forget this in all the excitement.”

“No, it is okay. You may have it. I do not need it any more.”

****** The End *****

The End

Now that everyone’s gotten a chance to wipe the happy tears away, it looks like this is the end. Sort of. It has been an AMAZING ride and I want to thank each and every one of you. I’ve loved your comments, your guesses, your help and your love for our Midge.

I know this book could go on almost forever. There are lots of things yet to resolve, and lots I know you want to see and experience through Midge’s eyes. This seems like a good place to stop though, and so I shall.

It’s time for these boys to go to Amazon. I’m going to write about their Christmas (can you imagine Midge at his first real Christmas?) and publish it all as a huge E-

book.

Thanks so much for everything!

Stay #fcute.

Lots of love,

Deanne

---

Oh, and just in CASE Mitch or Scott stumble upon this little story and actually read it, a few words. First, I KNOW that Mitch is not a Neko; I promise that I am not completely crazy. You gotta admit though, it made for a HELL of a story, didn’t it? Love you both somaj. Stay yourselves, always.

Published !!!!

Hello all,

I hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know our Midge.  If you’ve enjoyed it this far, please consider supporting me by either reading on Amazon for free if you have Unlimited or purchasing a copy.   They have a kindle app, so you don’t have to have a kindle to read it. 

The sequels are available on Amazon as well!! :)

All the links are in my profile but if you’re not in the US, you’ll likely need to change the .com to .uk or .ca etc.

Thank you so much!!