Adoption 2: A new Phaze in life.
For the people that wanted a sequel, here it is. It's not as long as the first one but I think I did a good job one this one. I want to say thanks to Jozuad for his comment on the first story and the idea for the second. Hope you enjoy this one like the first. If not, feel free to ream me a new asshole. I won't stop you at all. But as usually, comments are very highly welcomed saying you enjoyed it or want to hunt me down and shoot me.
"Paulu, your going to be late for school," Deloris said knocking on the door.
"Okay mom." Paulu groaned.
He tossed the blanket off his body before throwing his feet over the side and stretched. He was bigger now then he was three years ago. He was 5'5 in the sixth grade, now as a freshmen in high school, he was 6 feet even. Muscles developed a little but didn't show in his slim body. A yawn escaped his muzzle as he reached over and put his glasses on.
"Freshmen year, who would've thought I would make it this far?" he said to himself grabbing a pair of boxers and tee shirt before heading to the showers.
He washed himself completely, making sure to get his fluffy tail. Satisfied, he turned the water off and shook the excess water off. The smell of pancakes and eggs hit his nose making his stomach growl. Heading out, he dressed in a nice pair of Khakis and shirt before heading downstairs. Azmo was at the table drinking some tea when he saw Paulu come in.
"Morning blue boy," Azmo said.
"Morning shorty," Paulu grinned.
They became the best of friends over the three years, almost like real brothers. Paulu really looked up to him as a father figure and mentor. He still remembers that night they "bonded" and sometimes think about it.
"I may be short, but I'll still beat you down."
Paulu stuck his tongue out before taking a seat as Deloris handed him a plate.
"Eat up cutie."
"Thanks mom," Paulu said taking a bite as his tail wagged happily. He still loved Deloris's pancakes.
"You have your books and schedule ready?"
"Yes mom."
"Good. You have my cell along with your brother's?"
"Yeah," Paulu said taking out his cell.
"Just checking."
Paulu finished with a burp as Azmo chuckled. Deloris grabbed his plate and washed it.
"You two get going. You have to be at school too young man," Deloris said tapping Azmo on the head.
"I know. My class doesn't start til ten."
They both got up and gave Deloris a hug before heading out and into Azmo's car. Starting it up, Azmo took off down the street.
"Azmo?"
"What's up?" he asked stopping at the light.
"Do you remember that night we............"
Azmo looked at Paulu who looked out the window.
"How could I forget." he said with a chuckle.
He looked at him again curiously.
"What's wrong?"
"Do you..........regret what we did?" Paulu asked, his purple eyes looking at Azmo.
"Why do you say that?"
"I don't know. I feel like I........forced you into it," Paulu said, ears down.
Azmo laughed at that before bopping his head lightly.
"You didn't force me into anything. In fact, I kind of needed it. So no, I don't regret what we did. Just don't think we'll do it again."
"I know. Sophie wouldn't like that," Paulu said with a smile and a wag of his tail.
"No she wouldn't."
He pulled into his old school, Tidel high and stopped at the entrance as teens flooded into it.
"Good luck bro. Freshmen year is always the hardest. Just keep you head high and watch out for freshmen hazing."
"Thanks Azmo." Paulu said bumping fists.
"If you find yourself in a fix, go to Mr. Columbo in electronics. He'll help you out."
"Will do."
"Say hi to Ruby for me." Azmo laughed before driving away.
Paulu watched his car disappeared down the hill. Turning around, he looked at the three story school before taking a deep breath and walked in.
__
Azmo pulled into Maverick Technical and parked. He was in his second year at the community college which was one of the three that wanted him. He was ranked up there as one of the best thanks to Mr. Columbo and Mr. Sizemore's recommendations.
"Hey Azmodius."
He looked to see his class mate Allen walking up to him.
"Sup Allen. You ready for today?"
"Yeah man. Got my schedule and everything. Wish I could be like you though cause you got a scholarship."
"I love electronics what can I say."
"I can see that."
They walked into the school and to their lockers.
"How are things with Sophie?"
"Great. She got her wish in becoming a nurse by getting into Lincoln."
Allen whistled at that.
"That place is expensive. How'd she manage that?"
"Dad paid it all since he hit the lottery our senior year. Won a hundred and thirty-five million."
"Nice."
"No shit."
"You guys thinking about marriage like Derrick and Alef?"
Azmo thought about it for a second before shivering.
"No thank you. I think boyfriend and girlfriend is enough for me."
"I hear that," Allen said as the bell rang. "I'll see you at lunch."
"Okay later."
__
"Man, I thought lunch would never come." Paulu said to himself.
He walked out to the eating area and sat down, laying his backpack on the ground with a sigh. Before he could dig in, his eyes got covered.
"Eating without me huh?" a silky voice said.
"Sorry Ruby. I was hungry." Paulu said with a smile.
Ruby let out a humph before sitting next to him. She grew into a cute girl, very slim and athletic. They were inseparable for the last three years doing everything together. Paulu advanced in art, even managed to get a part time job at an art store. Ruby was more of a cooker. She made lunch sometimes for the both of them on weekends.
"So what classes you have?" Ruby asked.
"Earth science, Advanced art, biology, algebra, and P.E."
"I have English, algebra with you, home economics, history and study hall."
"Not bad."
Paulu took a sip of his soda when he heard his name.
"Hey double P, what's up?"
He turned around to see a brown and grey Akita next to a husky and otter.
"Hey Spencer," Paulu said to the Akita.
Spencer, Theo the husky, and Levi the otter became friends in the seventh grade. Sure they made fun of him but when they saw his nice personality, they warmed up to him and became sort of his bodyguards.
"Can you believe we're actually made it to high school?" Levi said excited.
"Why so pumped? All it means is more work and less fun," Theo added.
"Yeah, but the girls up here are so hot so I think it kind of evens out don't you think?" Levi said watching two female wolves pass by, eyes on their behinds.
Everybody chuckled at that. Levi was the clown of the group, always making jokes but he was a smart one. Paulu went for his drink when a baseball knocked it out of his hand.
"What the hell?" Paulu growled looking back.
There was his bully for life it seems Barkley Munn. Barkley took every chance he had to bully Paulu. From wedgies to stuffing him in a locker to stealing his lunch.
"Hey little boy blue, care to blow my horn?" Barkley said grabbing his crotch.
"Very original. Did it take you all night to think that up?" Paulu growled cleaning his shirt.
"Not really. I have plenty more."
"Joy. We get to him your whole vocabulary in a single joke," Spencer groaned.
Barkley growled as his buddies, a bear named Wall, a human named Trident, and a ferret named Billy advanced a little.
"You want to step to this Billy?" Theo said standing up. "I'll still kick your ass."
"You wish mutt, or should I call you doughnut hole puncher?"
Theo let out viscous snarl and charged him only to get held back by both Paulu and Spencer.
"Easy Theo. This is what he wants." Paulu said.
"What's wrong? Let the pillow biter go."
"Back off Billy or I will."
"You talk big blue boy," Barkley said walking up and looking down at him. He stood only a few inches over Paulu but that didn't scare him. "Just remember, your friends won't always be around. Let's go boys before we get a case of the blues."
They left laughing as Theo growled angrily. Billy hurt him deep finding his only weakness. He sat back down, hands clenched into fists.
"That asshole."
"Don't let him win the mind games." Ruby said. "You're stronger then that."
Theo took a deep breath before relaxing.
"Thanks Ruby."
"Anytime," Ruby smiled as the bell rang.
"I'll catch you later guys." Paulu said grabbing his bags.
__
"Hello. You found him? Where? Okay, thank you so much Mr Caffey."
"They found him?"
"Yes."
"What are we waiting for?"
"Where are we going mom?"
"You'll see sweetie."
__
"Thank you come again," Paulu said with a smile handing the bag to the little fox.
"Thanks for the help mister."
"Your quite welcomed."
Paulu gave a wave before restocking the front shelf.
"Hey Paulu, have a second?" a voice said from the downstairs floor.
"Sure Troy."
Paulu walked downstairs to the books and paper department where a skunk was working.
"What's up Troy?"
"Feel like working an extra couple of hours tomorrow? There's a up and coming artist coming here to visit."
"Really? Who?"
"Raymond Roosevelt."
Paulu's eyes went wide.
"Roosevelt? Are you serious?"
"Yeah. I just got the call about two hours ago and most people I asked didn't want to stay."
"Hell yeah I'll stay." Paulu said excitedly, tail wagging non stop.
"Thanks. I had a feeling you would." Troy said with a smile as the customer bell rang. "You got a customer."
Paulu hopped up the stairs to see Ruby standing there with a smile.
"Hey there cutey what's up?" Ruby said.
"Hey Ruby. What can I do for you?"
"Just came by to say hi. Boy, you do look cute in that uniform."
Paulu blushed making her chuckle.
"Nah, the real reason is I was doing some shopping and happened to walk by."
"I see. Thanks for visiting me."
They were both quiet for a minute looking away. They were still shy around each other for some reason. Footsteps were heard coming up the stairs as Troy saw they.
"Hey Ruby. What brings you by?"
"Oh, hey Troy. Just saying hi to Paulu. I need to go anyway. I'll see you at school Paulu," Ruby said with a wave.
They watched her leave as troy walked over and threw his arm around Paulu.
"So........you bang her yet?"
"WHAT!!?" Paulu said shocked.
"Come on. You and Ruby are like this," Troy said crossing his fingers.
"We're just friends Troy. Nothing more," Paulu blushed hard.
"Sure sure," Troy chuckled. "Come on, we have customers still."
__
"I'm home," Paulu said walking in.
"Hello cutie. How was work?" Deloris asked in the kitchen.
"It was cool. Raymond Roosevelt is coming by the store tomorrow to give a demo."
"That sounds lovely. Go wash up."
Paulu walked up the stairs as he heard voices. He stopped at Azmo's door to see Sophie laying on the bed and Azmo at his desk working on something.
"Cutie!!!" Sophie cheered hopping off the bed and hugging him.
"Hey Sophie," Paulu giggled as Sophie kissed his cheek.
"Just get home from work?"
"Yeah. Hey Azmo, can I ask you a question?"
"Sure bro, what's up?"
Paulu walked over and sat on the desk chair.
"I have a dilemma."
"What did you do Azmo?" Sophie said, hands on her hips.
"Wait a minute. I didn't do anything." Azmo said in defense.
"No, no its not him. Its........."
Sophie looked at him before it hit her. She sat on the bed and smiled.
"Its Ruby isn't it?"
Paulu blushed making her giggle.
"I like her a lot but........."
"Your too scared to ask her out?" Azmo finished for him screwing a bolt into a box.
"Yeah. I need some help."
"Just tell her how you feel cutie. I'm sure she feels the same way." Sophie said.
"Or you could just bang her in the school's shower like I did with Sophie." Azmo chuckled.
"Yes Azmo, the only time I could say wow, is it over already?"
Paulu laughed as Azmo threw a pillow at her.
"Well if you want bro, you could invite her to the movies with us on Saturday. I'm taking Sophie to see Twilight."
"Hmmmm." Paulu thought. "I guess. Let me call her."
Paulu opened his phone and hit the quick dial. Ruby picked up after the third ring.
"Hey cutie, what's up?"
"Hey Ruby. Listen, I was wondering if you would.......um..........go.......out with me and my brother on Saturday?"
Ruby chuckled making Paulu blushed.
"Why mister Phaze. Are you asking me out on a date?"
"Um............yeah."
"Your on foxy. What time is the movie?"
"What time is the movie bro?" Paulu asked.
"Two thirty."
"Its at two thirty."
"Okay. I'll come by at two. Bye foxy."
"Bye Ruby."
Paulu hung up, a smile on his face.
"My bro's growing up so fast." Azmo said pretending to cry.
"Leave him alone. They've been friends for so long its only natural." Sophie added.
"Dinner time boys and girl. Paulu you still need a shower young man."
"Okay mom," Paulu said getting up. "Thanks bro."
"Anytime."
__
"And that's the difference between nimbo-stratus and nimbo-cumulus clouds. Now for a quick quiz." Bradley said.
Everyone groaned making Bradley chuckle.
"Its not that bad and its exactly what I just told you. So come up and take one."
Everyone grabbed one and started as Bradley erased the board when the intercom went off.
"Mr. Bradley?"
"Yes?"
"Is Paulu there?"
"Yes he is."
"Can you send him to the front office."
"Sure thing."
Paulu grabbed him backpack and went to the front office where a beagle was working. He looked up and saw Paulu.
"Hey Paulu."
"Hey Mr. Christy. You wanted to see me?"
"Yes. A man came by and left a note for you. Here."
Paulu took it and opened it up. He read it as he started to look confuse.
"This...........doesn't make sense."
"What's wrong?"
"All it says is to meet me in the mall tomorrow signed a good friend."
"Be careful with those kinds of letter. That's how people get killed."
"Thanks Mr. Christy," Paulu said as the bell rang.
__
The eagle, Mr. Anderson, walked around the class examining all their work. He stopped at Paulu's desk and watched his hand movement.
"Mr. Weatherby was right. You do have a good grasp of art."
"Thanks," Paulu said not taking his eyes off the table.
Mr. Anderson had a couple of objects on the table which he told the class to draw as realistic as possible, an apple, a vase with a sunflower, and a cup of water filled half way with ice.
"You do need a little work on your shading though."
"I know," Paulu said shading the apple with his pencil.
"I hear Raymond Roosevelt is coming by your store."
"I know. I'm so psych to see him."
"You could learn a bit from him." Anderson said with a smile.
Spencer let out a growl as he erased again and again.
"What's wrong Spencer?" Anderson asked.
"I can't get the vase right."
"Do what I do," Paulu said looking at him. "Think of it as a girl's body and let your fingers do the work."
Everybody laughed at that as the bell rang ending the class. Paulu grabbed his bag and headed out with Spencer to their next class.
"You should come to my job today. Raymond Roosevelt is coming."
"Really? I read a couple of his books on oil painting and landscaping." Spencer said.
"I'm not a big fan of oil. I prefer colored pencils and regular pencils."
"I'll see if I can make it though."
"Cool," Paulu said with a smile before getting shoved. "What the hell........."
He looked back to see Barkley.
"Sorry, didn't see you there. I guess they should make a stop light color for you."
"You're really getting on my nerves Barkley."
"Ohhh, I'm scared. What are you going to do, paint me to death?" Barkley laughed.
Spencer grabbed Paulu's shoulder.
"Lets go Paulu. His stupidity might be contagious."
Barkley growled and slammed Spencer on the wall, teeth bared.
"Say something again. I dare you."
"Back off," Paulu barked shoving Barkley to the ground.
"Stop this right now."
A bull walked over to them.
"Spencer, Paulu, go to you classes. Barkley, your coming with me."
"Its on neon boy. You better prepare yourself," Barkley growled.
Paulu sighed as the late bell rang.
"Lets go. Don't worry about him." Spencer said.
"I'm not."
__
"Where is he? He should be here."
"I don't see him."
"You think he got the note?"
"I hope so."
"Come on, lets keep looking."
__
Paulu let out a sigh as he came home. The store was packed with people wanting to see Raymond. He even manged to get an autograph and a couple of lessons in shading after the store closed. He took out an 11x12 paper with a self portrait of Raymond he did that was signed by him.
"How was work dear?" Deloris asked.
"Busy. The store was crazy since Raymond visited."
"Sounds fun."
"I'm going to lay down."
"Okay. Dinner will be ready in an hour or so."
Paulu walked upstairs and peeked into Azmo's room.. He was working on a circuit board with an ohm meter to see which resistors were bad.
"Azmo, you had a second?"
"Sure. What's wrong?"
Paulu took a seat on the bed holding his tail.
"I'm having trouble at school."
"What kind?" Azmo said checking the meter.
"Bully trouble."
"The fun kind. Who is it?"
"Barkley Munn. He's been bullying me since middle school."
"Munn? That's Alef's brother."
The meter made a beeping sound signaling a bad resistor as took it out and replaced it.
"Has he hit you?"
"No. But he did push me."
"I see," Azmo said checking his work. "Tell you what. I have no school tomorrow so I'll stop by during lunchtime."
"Okay. That'll be helpful."
"Dinner time boys. Wash up."
"Okay," they said.
__
Lunch time hit as Paulu grabbed his lunch and went out to the tables.
"Hey double P, over here," Spencer said.
Paulu walked over with a smile and sat down next to his buddies and started chatting. He looked up in time to see Ruby being harassed by Barkley and his crew.
"Come on Ruby. I'm so much more better then him. Why can't you see that?" Barkley said.
"I see that your a jerk. All you do is pick on people." Ruby growled.
"Cause they deserve it. I would never pick on you. You're too hot for that."
Ruby rolled her eyes.
"If your done trying to hit on me, I would like to eat."
Barkley's hand slammed on the wall blocking her way.
"You belong to a good man. I will be that man, whether you like it or not."
"Leave her alone Barkley."
Barkley turned his head a little to see Paulu standing there, hands clenched into fists.
"Well well, is he your knight in blue armor?" Barkley chuckled.
"He's more of a knight then you'll ever be," Ruby snapped.
Barkley smiled and leaned in closer then Ruby wanted and sniffed.
"You smell hot too."
"Back off," Ruby pushed him.
Paulu walked over and grabbed Barkley's shoulder which is something he expected as he lashed his elbow back connecting with Paulu's nose. Paulu yelped and stumbled backwards to the ground, blood running down his nose.
"So much for your knight."
"Oh my god, Paulu." Ruby gasped pushing back Barkley and running to him.
Paulu held his nose, tears coming down his eyes.
"I guess we're even blue boy. That's for pushing me."
"Not even yet." a voice said behind him.
Barkley turned only to get a headbutt in his face busting his nose as he let out a yelp.
"Now we're even," Azmo said angrily.
"What the hell?" Barkley growled. "Who are you?"
"His brother."
Azmo walked over to Paulu and went to one knee to check him.
"Let me see it."
Paulu moved his hands as Azmo looked at it.
"Its not to bad. Head to the nurse's office and add some ice to it."
"Thanks bro," Paulu said weakly.
"I can't believe that blueberry is your brother." Billy chuckled.
"I heard his real brother died. He must be rolling in his grave seeing this." Wall added.
This pissed Azmo off as he flew at Wall so fast it shocked everybody as he pinned him to the ground, arm behind his back stretched hard to the breaking point.
"Say something about him again. I dare you. I double dare you mother fucker so I can break your fucking arm." Azmo growled.
Paulu ran over and held his shoulder.
"Don't do it bro. Don't turn into them. Felix wouldn't want you to do this."
Azmo's silver eyes turned soft as he got up with a grunt.
"Paulu just saved your arm. You should thank him."
"Who do you think you are?" Barkley growled.
Azmo looked at him and walked over. Barkley let out a whine as he backed up until he tripped over his feet. Azmo reached down and grabbed his neck.
"I'm Azmodius Matador, Paulu's brother. If I find out you did anything to him, I'll do worse then give you a bloody nose. Do I make myself clear?"
Barkley nodded his head quickly as Azmo smiled.
"Say hi to your sister for me."
Paulu smiled as Azmo walked up.
"Thanks bro."
"No problem. Go get yourself cleaned up."
"Okay."
Barkley watched Azmo leave with a snarl as his buddies walked up.
"What do we do?" Trident asked.
"I say we jump him and beat the hell out of him." Wall added.
"Don't bother," Barkley said. "This is personal."
__
Weekend hit as Paulu was pacing back and forth in the living room waiting for Ruby. Azmo and Sophie were chuckling at him.
"Relax cutie. Your making grooves in the carpet." Sophie chuckled.
"I can't help it," Paulu said, tail twitching nervously.
"Just be yourself and you'll be fine." Azmo added.
The bell rang making Paulu jump.
"She's here."
Paulu rushed to the door, making sure to smooth his hair and tail down. With a deep breath, he opened the door to see Ruby standing there wearing a pair of loose blue jeans and a Heat jersey with a black t-shirt underneath.
"Hey foxy." she said with a smile.
"H......hi.......Ru........Ruby." Paulu said.
"We ready to go? I heard this movie is off the hook."
"All set Ruby. Just waiting for you," Azmo said grabbing his keys.
They huddled in his car and headed for the Regal Cinema. Paulu had a steady blush on his face. Reaching the cinema, they got a space as it was packed to the rim.
"You got the tickets already right Azmo?" Sophie asked.
"I thought you were going to get them?"
"I told you Wednesday to get them over Fandango. You see that long ass line?"
"Relax," Azmo chuckled. "I got them."
"You ass," Sophie growled pushing him as he laughed.
They walked in, unknown they were being followed. Popcorn, soda, and candy were ordered all around as they found some seats in a packed theater. Azmo and Sophie sat in the back while Paulu and Ruby sat in the middle. The movie started as they watched, touching hands on occasions as they reached for their sodas making them blush. Paulu decided to be brave and wrapped his arm around her. She gave a small purr and rested her head on his shoulder. The movie ended as they walked out holding hands.
"Enjoy the movie Azmo?" Ruby asked.
"I don't remember cause somebody's hands were busy."
"You loved it," Sophie giggled.
They got to the car as two middle aged foxes walked up to them.
"Paulu? Oh my god it is you."
"Um, do I know you miss?"
"Its me, your mother," the smaller fox said.
"My mother?"
"Yes. Your full name is Paulu Lamar Phaze, born on April twenty fourth at five nineteen in the morning."
Paulu looked at her before walking up. He took a couple of sniffs as the scent hit him like a brick wall making his eyes go wide.
"M......Mom!!?"
__
"Azmo, where's Paulu?" Deloris asked him as he walked into the house.
"He went off with some foxes, one was his mother."
Deloris's eyes went wide.
"What do you mean?"
"Exactly what I said."
"I thought they were in another state. They have a lot of nerve coming back like this after what they did to him. Where are they now?"
"They went to the Steak & Shake."
Deloris ran upstairs surprising Azmo with her agility. She threw on whatever she could find and rushed back down stairs as Azmo looked at her confused.
"Where are you going?"
"To get my son back."
__
Paulu was all smiles somewhat as he sat across from his real parents.
"Wow.........I...........don't know what to say."
"Don't say anything baby. I'm just glad we found you after all this time." Wanda, his mother said with a smile and a tear in her eye.
The waitress came by with their order as they started eating.
"You look so handsome," Wanda said. "Don't just sit there, say something to our son Ben."
"I'm glad to see you son." Ben said.
"So what brings you here?" Paulu asked.
Wanda and Ben looked at each other.
"We've come to take you back Paulu." Wanda said with a smile.
Paulu choked on some food before looking at them.
"What do you mean?"
"We want you back home where you belong son." Ben added.
Paulu looked confused at that.
"But...........you left me."
"We made a mistake Paulu. A very big mistake," Wanda said sadly.
"We were just.............confused." Ben said. "You can as a shock to us."
Paulu looked at them before looking down.
"I..........don't know. This is all............so sudden."
"Its okay Paulu. Take all the time you need." Wanda said.
"Paulu!!"
Paulu turned to see Deloris storming over to them.
"Hey mom."
"Thank you for taking care of our son miss......"
"Matador, Deloris Matador. What do you want with him?"
"We've come to take him back where he belongs, with us." Ben said.
"Over my dead body. Paulu, go to the car."
"Um..........okay. Glad to finally meet you mom and dad." Paulu said with a bow before leaving.
They watched him leave before addressing each other.
"I don't know what your game is, but I won't let you hurt Paulu again." Deloris said firmly.
"We're here for our son whether you like it or not. You've done your job." Wanda said angrily.
"You gave up your rights as parents the moment you left him."
"People make mistakes Mrs. Matador. Surely you made a couple yourself, namely Felix."
Deloris froze when she heard that.
"We heard all about what happened to your son by our detective we hired. You have no right to criticize us." Ben said.
Deloris balled her fists angrily, emotions running wild in her body.
"Stay away from Paulu."
"You deny us and we'll take you to court for custody." Wanda said.
"See you in court then." Deloris snarled and stormed out.
__
"Paulu are you okay?" Mr. Anderson asked. "You've been staring at your easel for the last ten minutes."
"Huh?" Paulu said looking at him.
"I asked if your okay."
"Yeah I'm fine. I'm just...........confused right now."
Mr. Anderson smiled and patted his shoulder.
"Go see your guidance counselor. They are always there to lend an ear. All right class, here your special assignment. During your vacation, I would like you to do a portrait of somebody you know. You have eight days to do it so take your time. This WILL count as thirty percent of your final grade."
Paulu packed his bags and headed out as Spencer caught up with him.
"What's up double P, you're acting weird today?"
"My mom's here."
"Where?" Spencer said looking around.
"My real mom."
"Oh........."
They headed out the school waiting for their bus.
"I don't know what to do," Paulu said.
"I'm not a shrink or anything so I can't give you advice. The only thing I can tell you is to do what you want to do." Spencer said looking at him.
"I don't know what to do. That's the point."
"Hey," Spencer said grabbing his shoulder and looking into his purple eyes with his yellow. "Don't force a decision. If you do, you'll regret it."
Paulu smiled and nodded.
"Thanks Spence."
"Anytime. Your bus is here. I'll catch you later. Give me a call if you want to chat."
"Okay," Paulu said hopping onto his bus.
__
"We can win this case right Morgan?" Wanda asked the elk.
"Its going to be tough. You did legally give up your rights as parents." Morgan said.
"There has to be something. We are his parents for heaven sakes." Ben said.
Morgan tapped his pen on the folder rubbing his temple with the other hand.
"Most cases like these usually end in failure but I'll see what I can do."
"Thank you so much."
"No problem Mrs. Phaze."
__
Paulu laid in the bed staring at the ceiling. A knock was heard diverting his attention.
"Come in."
Azmo walked in and sat down at the edge of the bed.
"What's up bro? You haven't left this room all day since you came home from school."
Paulu sat up and hugged Azmo tight as tears started to form.
"I'm so confused."
"Shh, its okay," Azmo said rubbing his back. "I know everything will turn out okay."
"I don't want to leave you or mom, but I want to know my real parents."
"Hey look at me."
Paulu look at Azmo with teary eyes.
"Nobody will blame you if you decide to leave. Its only natural for a child to want to be with their parents."
"You don't want me here?"
"I didn't say that. These last couple years have been the greatest time for me. Your not Felix, but you are close to him in every way. I'm happy to say I'm proud to have you as a brother."
Paulu teared up more before burying his face in Azmo's chest crying.
"Now now cut that out. Your ruining my shirt."
Paulu let out a weak chuckle as he sat up.
"Thanks Az."
"Anytime. Now," Azmo said wiping Paulu's tears from his face and bopping his head lightly. "Let's go have some fun somewhere."
"Okay." Paulu said happily.
__
"Wow are you serious?" Bradley asked shocked.
"Yes. They have the nerve to comeback sixteen years later and try to take him back after what they did." Deloris said.
"That's.............shocking."
Deloris was laying on the grass, her head in Bradley's lap as they were enjoying a beautiful afternoon in the park.
"So they are taking you to court for this?" Bradley asked.
"Yes."
"Amazing."
They were quiet as kids were playing in the grass laughing and giggling.
"What would you do if they win?"
Deloris was quiet before letting out a small whine.
"I don't know what I'll do. When I saw his picture three years ago, I knew he was the one for me. I don't want to let him go."
Bradley wiped a tear from her eye before smiling.
"Sometime, we have to let the things most precious to us go."
Deloris gave a small nod before sighing.
"Mrs. Matador?"
Deloris sat up and looked behind her to see a small raptor with a suit on holding a briefcase.
"Yes that's me."
"My name is Warrick James. I have a court summons for you."
He opened his briefcase and handed a folder to her. She opened it and read the contents.
"Very well. I'll be there."
"Thank you. Have a good day."
They watched him leave as Bradley looked at her.
"When's the court date?"
"In two days. They are really rushing it."
"I guess they really want him back."
"Well I'm going to make sure they won't get him."
"Do you have a lawyer?"
"Not at the moment."
"I know a good lawyer who help me in my time of need."
"That'll be helpful."
__
Dinner was quiet as everybody ate in silence. The only thing that could be heard was the rattling of silverware.
"Mom?" Paulu said softly.
"Yes hun?"
"Is.........everything going to be okay?"
Deloris was quiet as she put her fork down.
"I don't know hun."
"Why is this happening now?"
"I don't know."
Deloris gathered up the dishes and washed them as Paulu and Azmo went upstairs. The house was quiet as everybody was in their rooms. Paulu tossed and turned in bed unable to sleep. He got up and walked out his room to Deloris's. He knocked softly and opened it to see her in the bed crying softly.
"Mom?"
She let out a gasp and sat up.
"Oh Paulu, I didn't hear you. What's wrong hun?"
Paulu walked over and laid down next to her.
"I don't want to leave you mom, but I want to know my real parents."
"I know cutie."
"But they left me and now want me back. I'm so confused."
Deloris hugged him from behind feeling the soft fur of his back. She stroked his head softly hearing him whine.
"Paulu, I can't tell you what to do. All I can tell you is if the court does go in your parent's favor, all I ask is............"
She paused and started to cry.
"All I ask..............is that you don't forget me."
Paulu started to cry himself as he turned and held her close, ear bent and tail between his legs.
"I'll never forget you mom. I love you."
"I love you too Paulu."
__
"So there you have." Paulu said to Marvin.
"I see," Marvin said tossing him back the baseball from his glove.
Paulu called Marvin over to help him discuss some things if he had the time.
"Well, the only advice I can give you is to be strong. Sometimes life can be cruel to you when its going so well."
"But I'll miss everybody here. All my friends and family." Paulu said tossing back the ball.
"Understandable. But this may be a good chance to start fresh. A clean slate so to speak."
"Perhaps."
They tossed the ball a couple more times before Paulu asked a question.
"Put yourself in my shoes Marvin, what would you do?"
Marvin chuckled at that.
"Put me in the hot seat huh. Well let see...........I guess I would just accept whatever decision is made."
"For real?" Paulu asked.
"I know its going to be a painful one, but when you look at it from a different angle, you'll get to be reunited with your real family."
"I understand that one."
Marvin's phone rang in his pocket as he dug it out.
"One sec kiddo. Hello. Yes. I understand. I'm on my way now. Sorry kiddo, duty calls."
"No problem Marvin. Thanks for coming on such short notice."
Marvin smiled as he tossed the gloves and ball into the back seat. After that, he walked over and gave Paulu a hug which he returned in kind.
"You'll always be my special buddy kiddo. Never forget that." Marvin said.
"I won't," Paulu said, tail wagging happily.
"You have my number. Feel free to call anytime you want to."
"Thanks."
Marvin ruffled his hair making him giggle before hopping in his car and driving off.
__
"All rise. This court is now in session. The honorable Judge Eleanor Crane presiding," the guard said.
Everybody stood as a female boar walked in wearing the all black robe. She walked up to the large desk and took a seat along with everybody else.
"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Today's case is Phaze against Matador. I'll hear opening statements from each side."
A panther stood up after nodding to Deloris.
"Your honor, my client is a deserving mother. She looked after Paulu after his so called parents deserted him at the age of one. If you take him away now, you'll be taken away a part of her."
The panther sat down as Morgan stood up.
"Your honor, my clients are human beings. Sure they make mistakes, but should they be denied the right to see their son. The son that they gave birth to. To keep them away from their son is wrong and unjust."
Eleanor nodded her head and wrote down some notes.
"Okay consul your witness," she said the the panther.
__
Paulu sat in the living room, easel on the carpet. After his talk with Marvin he felt a little better but not much. To help get his mind off the present, he decided to work on his assignment so he called Ruby over. The doorbell rang as he got up and answered it.
"Hey foxy, what you need me for?" Ruby asked with a smile.
"I was wondering if you could um...........model for me?" Paulu said, the fur around his cheek dark.
Ruby blushed hard too before chuckling.
"What.......kind of.........modeling?"
"I need to do a portrait of somebody I know. It counts as thirty percent of my grade."
"Sure."
Paulu smiled and moved to let Ruby in.
"Just have a seat on the bean bag chair and I'll get started."
"Okay."
Ruby sat on the bean bag chair as Paulu got ready behind the easel.
"Now just relax and I should be done in about ten minutes."
"Okay." Ruby said adjusting her hair and clothes.
Paulu took a deep breath before starting his sketch. He took a chance to glance at her every minute or so. His hand moved swiftly as all you could hear was the scribbling of the pencil on the pad. He glanced over again as he looked at her. The sun rays reflected in the window causing a small gleam behind her making her fur shine.
"Jesus she's beautiful. This may be the last time I'll be able to see her." Paulu thought sadly.
His hand started to shake a little making irregular line as he cursed.
"Dammit."
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"Nothing nothing."
Paulu started again, capturing the background before starting on Ruby. He glanced at Ruby again, eyes traveling down her body, her perfect body. The point of his pencil snapped as he growled.
"Dammit," he growled throwing the pencil down before getting up and sitting on the couch.
"Paulu, what's wrong?" Ruby asked sitting next to him. "This isn't like you at all."
Paulu looked at her before sighing.
"This...........may be the last day we're together."
"What do you mean?"
"My real parents are here. They are trying to get custody of me."
Ruby smiled before resting her head on his shoulder.
"Paulu, you worry to much."
"But.........we'll never see each other again."
"That doesn't mean you can't call."
"Its just not the same. I won't be able to laugh with you......play games with you.........hold you............"
He trailed off as he looked at her, right into her blue eyes. He leaned down slowly before meeting her lips with his. Ruby let out a sigh and purred softly before wrapping her arms around him. They broke off slowly and looked each other in the eyes.
"I guess I better say this now then. I.....I love you Ruby."
"I love you to my little blue foxy." Ruby replied.
__
"Can you believe this bull?" Allen said.
"It could be worse," Azmo added.
"We have to fix a pinball machine Azmo. A pinball machine during vacation."
"And when we do fix it, its ours. What's wrong with that?"
"I'm not as smart as you man." Allen said. "All I'm good at is reading schematics."
"Which is the reason I choose you as a partner."
Allen tossed his hands up in surrender as Azmo chuckled. They reached Azmo's car as Allen groaned.
"Crap. I forget my toolbox. Give me a sec."
"Sure no problem."
Allen hurried into the school leaving Azmo behind. Azmo turned his back and started to open his door when somebody slammed into him from behind.
"Payback time blue lover," Barkley growled.
Azmo pushed him back and turned to face him only to get a solid right to his face bringing him to the ground.
"I brought along a couple of friends of mine, hope you don't mind."
Azmo let out a grunt, rubbing his jaw as he stood up to see Barkley in between two bulldogs.
"Do you think three against one is going to help you?"
"Who said three? I'm just here to watch," Bradley grinned.
The bulldogs advanced as Azmo stood his ground. They attacked him together but Azmo was a bit better but not by much. Barkley saw an opening and gave a cheap shot to the back stumbling him which was all it took for the bulldogs to overpower him quickly as they rained down blows like a hammer on nails. One bulldog held him from behind as he other struck him over and over, blood flying to the ground with every hit. Barkley smiled before reaching into the car they came in grabbing a metal baseball bat.
"Hang on fellas. Let me get one."
Barkley walked over and knelt down to look at Azmo. His face was red and swollen as blood came from his nose and mouth.
"I was going to use this on little boy blue one day but..........."
Barkley reared back and swung hard connecting with his side with a sickening crack. Azmo let out a yell of pain and tried to cover up but was being held hard. Another blow was delivered and another as Barkley laughed. Barkley delivered one more before grabbing Azmo's chin.
"Don't feel so big now do you? Word of advice, don't mess with me. Come on boys."
They dropped Azmo to the ground and gave a final kick before walking away. Azmo coughed up blood and tried to move but couldn't. Allen came back and when he saw Azmo, he panicked.
"Holy shit. Azmo!!! Hang on," he said grabbing his phone and calling the ambulance.
__
"Why did you wait so long to tell me?" Ruby asked, her head under Paulu's chin.
"I was scared you didn't feel the same way."
"I gave you so many clues and hints foxy."
Paulu chuckled and hugged Ruby again as her purr deepened.
They sat there enjoying each other warmth when Paulu's phone rang.
"Hello. WHAT!!?" he said getting up quickly. "When? Okay, I'm leaving now."
"What's wrong?" Ruby asked.
"Azmo's is in critical condition in the hospital."
__
"Okay, I heard from the defense. Prosecution, your witness." Eleanor said.
"Thank you your honor. I would like to call Deloris Matador to the stand."
Deloris walked up and took the oath before sitting down.
"Mrs. Matador, why do you feel that you should have custody over Paulu?"
"Because I shown him love when other people have shun him because of his fur color."
"Are you sure that is the only reason?"
"I don't know what you are getting at."
"Do you feel that adopting Paulu filled the void that was left by Felix?"
Deloris tensed up, her hands balling up.
"What does that have to do with it?" she said angrily.
"He died because of your neglect if I recall."
"Objection you honor this is irrelevant." the panther said standing up.
"You honor this question has everything to do with this case." Morgan stated.
"Objection over ruled. Please continue."
"Please explain to the court how your son Felix died Mrs. Matador."
Deloris gritted her teeth, staring daggers at Morgan.
"Mrs. Matador answer the question." Eleanor said.
"Felix died from a stab wound to the stomach which pierced his liver."
"And before he died, did he call you?"
"Yes."
"And did you answer?"
Deloris was quiet, looking down at the ground.
"Did you answer the phone Mrs. Matador?"
"No.........I didn't."
"And why didn't you answer it?"
"Because........I........unplugged it."
She was quiet again as tears went down her face.
"You don't have to answer cause I'll finish it for you. You didn't answer your son because you were busy fornicating while he was dying. Your own son was dying and you were getting laid. Now I ask you your honor, is this the kind of mother you want to leave Paulu? Who knows, maybe the next time will be your son or your daughter she leaves to die while getting some. No further questions." Morgan said in triumph.
Deloris was in tears as she got up and sat down next to the panther who handed her some tissues.
"This court will go into recess while I come to a verdict." Eleanor said getting up and leaving.
Bradley rushed into the courtroom causing everybody to look at him in shocked. He looked around and saw Deloris and ran up to her.
"Deloris come quick. Azmo's in the hospital."
"WHAT!!?" she said getting up and hurrying out with him.
"Mrs. Matador what about the verdict?" the panther said.
__
Paulu was sitting in the waiting room with Ruby, ears down as he whined.
"I hope he's okay."
"He'll be fine Paulu. He's strong."
Deloris rushed in looking left and right before seeing Paulu.
"Paulu!!"
Paulu's ear went straight up as he looked behind her.
"Mom!!"
They ran into each other and hugged.
"How is he?" she asked.
"I don't know he's still in ER."
They sat down holding hands waiting for the doctor. Every minute felt like a lifetime for them. Soon a yellow dragon come out wiping his forehead. They stood up and walked over to him.
"Doctor how is he?" Deloris asked.
"Well whoever did this to him did a number on him. He's got three broken ribs, ruptured spleen, collapsed lung, and a concussion. The bleeding was pretty bad so I had to put him in a drug induce coma to slow it down and stop it."
"Is he going to be all right?" Paulu asked.
Before the doctor could answer, a nurse rushed out.
"Doctor come quick, we're losing him fast."
__
Wanda was all smiles as she entered the hotel room. Eleanor ruled in favor of them making them cheer.
"How did it go mom?" their daughter asked.
"We won Karin. You get to have you brother back."
"All right," she cheered happily.
Ben sat on the couch and sighed happily.
"We're finally going to be a family again."
"Yes. This time we're going to do things right." Wanda said.
"I'll call and get the tickets ready," Ben said opening his cell.
"Get them for Saturday. We owe it to our son to have a couple of days to say goodbye to his friends."
__
Paulu looked at his brother, tears in his eyes. They had to jump Azmo's heart and are keeping a close eye on him.
"Why is this happening to me?" Deloris cried. "I don't want to lose my last one."
"Stop talking like that," Bradley said. "Azmodius is strong. He'll pull through."
Paulu grabbed his hand and held it tightly.
"Come on Azmo. Don't leave us. Your mom needs you. I need you."
A knock was heard on the door as Sophie walked in.
"Hey Mrs. Matador. How you holding up?" she asked softly.
"I don't know anymore Sophie."
"I understand. How are you Paulu?"
Paulu didn't answer as he laid Azmo's hand on his head, his head resting on the bed's edge as he cried quietly. Sophie walked over to look at Azmo. His whole chest was wrapped up as a tube was in his mouth. His eyes were closed as the breathing machine did the breathing for him. She brushed a few strands of hair from his face.
"You jerk. You better not die on me."
The doctor walked in and read Azmo's chart on the bed.
"We're going to operate now Mrs. Matador to fix your son's lung."
"Okay. Please take care of him," she said in tears.
"We have the best surgeons here tonight. We'll pull him through. You should get some rest. We'll call you as soon as we're done."
"But........."
"Deloris, you need to rest. Your going through a lot right now. Let the doctors help Azmo." Bradley said.
"Okay," she said in defeat.
They watched him wheel Azmo out as they stood in the hall. Morgan walked up to them when he saw them come out the room.
"I'm sorry for the pain you're going through Mrs. Matador."
"The fuck you are." she said angrily.
"Deloris relax." Bradley said.
"I have some forms for you to sign if you please."
Deloris looked at him in digest as he reached into his briefcase and pulled out some papers. She snatched them out his hands and signed them.
"Thank you. Paulu, if you could come with me. I'll take you to your parents."
Paulu looked at Deloris who nodded weakly. He gave her a final hug before leaving.
__
Morgan knocked on the hotel door as Ben opened it.
"Mr. Phaze, here is your son."
"Paulu my boy, come in. Thank you for everything Morgan."
"Your quite welcomed. Have a good day."
Paulu sat down on the couch as a young fox sat next to him.
"Hi big brother," she said cheerfully.
"Hey," Paulu said quietly.
"What wrong?" she asked.
"Paulu your here," Wanda said coming in and hugging him.
She let go and looked at him with a smile.
"I promise you, things will be different."
She looked at his face and noticed his sad expression.
"What's wrong hun? Aren't you happy to be with us?"
"My brother was almost beaten to death. How can I be happy?"
"Paulu, he's not your brother anymore. We're your family now."
Paulu growled at that and pushed her back much to her surprise
"How dare you say that. You left me when I was a cub and have the nerve to come back into my life."
"Paulu we made a mistake. We're sorry."
"Well I'm not. I spent thirteen years of my life in an orphanage thinking nobody loved me cause of my color. Then I get adopted by the one person who didn't see a freak, but a person. She took me in when others laughed at me."
"Things will be different son. All we're asking for is one more chance to make thins right." Ben said.
Paulu sat down holding his head.
"I made some dinner if your hungry," Wanda said softly.
"I'm not hungry."
"Well........could you at least spend the night with us?"
"Please big brother?"
Paulu looked at Karin, seeing himself when he was that young.
"Fine," he sighed.
"Yay!! My name is Karin big brother," she said hugging him.
__
The phone rang at two in the morning as Deloris reached for it.
"Hello?" she said sleepy.
"Mrs. Matador? Its me doctor Larry."
"How is Azmodius?"
"He's doing just fine. The operation was a success."
"Oh, thank you so much."
"You're quite welcomed. You can see him later today when you get some more sleep."
"That would be lovely."
"Great. I'll see you then."
Deloris hung up and let out a sigh of relief.
"He's going to be fine." she said to Bradley.
"That's great news cutie."
"We'll see him tomorrow."
__
"Isn't it great to be able to go out like this?" Wanda said happily.
The Phaze family was in the mall walking around and enjoying each others company.
"Your city has a lot of cool malls son." Ben said.
Paulu didn't answer as his thoughts were elsewhere.
"Big brother?" Karin said tugging his hand softly.
Paulu looked down at her before giving a soft smile.
"I'm fine."
"Do they have an arcade here big brother?"
"Yeah. Its on the third floor."
"Can you take me? Pwease?"
"Sure."
Karen cheered jumping up and down.
"Here's some money. Go have some fun," Ben said handing Paulu two twenties.
Paulu led her up to the Dragon's Lair arcade.
"Wow, its so big. What can we play first?"
"Anything you want."
Karin led him around playing game after game.
"Hey double P."
Paulu looked back to see Spencer and his brother Jim.
"Hey Spencer. Hey Jim."
"What brings you here?" Spence asked.
"Who's your friend big brother?"
"Big brother? You never told me you had a sibling."
"I didn't know either. Karin, this is my high school friend Spencer and his younger brother Jim."
"Hi," she said cheerfully with a wave.
"She's cute." Jim said.
"Oh yeah. Ruby told me about your brother. I'm sorry man."
Paulu folded his ear down sadly.
"Thanks. I know he'll pull though."
"Enough down talk. Let's have some fun." Spencer said.
They played games until Paulu got thirsty.
"I'm going to grab a drink."
He walked out to the vending machine and looked for something good.
"Well well, I'm either seeing doubles of two blue vending machines or I better see an eye doctor."
Paulu froze at that and bared his teeth as he turned to see Barkley with his arms crossed.
"I'm not in the mood for you so fuck off." Paulu snarled.
"Poor baby. Are you mad about your brother?"
Paulu didn't answer as he grabbed his soda from the machine.
"A real shame what happened. Pity he messed with the wrong wolf."
Paulu tensed and looked at him.
"What did you say?"
"I said he messed with the wrong wolf. So I had to teach him some manners in respect."
"It was you," Paulu snarled, his claws digging into the plastic bottle as the liquid leaked out on the floor.
"An eye for eye. Next time he'll stay out of my business." Barkley laughed.
This was all Paulu could take as he reared back and caught Barkley square in the jaw making him yelp in surprise before tackling him to the ground. People started to gather around chanting "Fight Fight". Barkley got the advantage as he topped Paulu and struck him hard a couple of times.
"Its lesson time blue boy and I'm your teacher for today. First lesson is never try to fight me."
He went to strike him again but Paulu caught his fist in his teeth and bore down hard drawing blood quickly. Barkley let out a howl of pain before a yelp as Paulu kicked him off. He didn't have a chance to recover before Paulu tackled him and hit him with lefts and rights.
"I hate you," Paulu snarled wrapping his hands around his throat.
Spencer finally managed to push his way through the crowd with Ruby who appeared and saw Paulu choking the life out of Barkley. He rushed over and grabbed Paulu off, struggling to hold him.
"Paulu relax."
"He almost killed Azmo. Let me go," Paulu snarled.
"Paulu stop this," Ruby said.
Ruby ran in front of him and looked into his eyes. They were full of rage and anger making her shiver. She grabbed his face and looked at him.
"Paulu look at me." she said sternly.
He looked at her breathing hard.
"This isn't you. I understand wanting revenge but that's not you. I want the Paulu I feel in love with."
Paulu's eyes soften as he relaxed in Spencer's arms.
"I'm sorry." he said softly.
"Don't be. Your anger was the one in control, not you."
Spencer let him go as Paulu sighed.
"Besides. I think Barkley's learned his lesson." Ruby said looking at him.
Barkley managed to get to his feet while they were talking. His nose was bleeding along with his mouth as his left eye was swollen.
"I guess your not such a little blue boy after all. But round two will belong to me," he growled before leaving.
The crowd scattered as fast as it gathered as Karin rushed over.
"What happened big brother?" she asked looking at his face.
Paulu wrapped the blood from his nose and smiled.
"Nothing. Did you have fun?"
"Yeah."
"She's cute," Ruby said tickling her cheek making her giggle.
"What brings you by Ruby?" Paulu asked.
"Your brother is awake in the hospital. Your mom's there now."
"I better go then."
__
"Oh my baby. I'm so glad your okay," Deloris said in tears holding Azmo.
"Ow, mom your hurting me," Azmo said with a weak chuckle.
"Is that all the info you can give us?" the officer asked.
"Yeah."
"Okay. We'll get right on it. You have a good day."
He watched him leave before sighing and closing his eyes. Sophie stroked his cheek and kissed him softly.
"I saw him mom." Azmo said softly.
"Saw who?"
"Felix."
Deloris looked at him as she wiped some tears away.
"When I died, I saw him. He told me it wasn't my time, that everybody needed me and I was stronger then this." he said opening his eyes.
"Thank you for coming back to me."
Azmo smiled at her when Paulu came in. He saw Azmo's eyes open as he rushed over and hugged him.
"Your awake. I'm so glad."
"Easy bro. I'm still in pain."
Paulu let go as Azmo noticed his face.
"What happened to you?"
"I had a fight with Barkley and won."
Azmo smiled as he rubbed his head.
"My bro's growing up."
"Thanks to you," Paulu said with a giggle.
"When I get out of here, we'll celebrate with a milkshake."
Paulu went silent and pulled away.
"What's wrong?" Azmo asked.
"I leave for my new home tomorrow with my parents."
"I see," Azmo said softly.
Azmo looked at him before holding his hand out. Paulu grabbed it as he gripped it hard.
"I said it before and I'll say it again. These last three years have been the greatest for me. And I'm proud to have had you as a brother. I love you bro."
Paulu teared up before burying his head under Azmo's chin. Azmo held him softly and rubbed his back.
"Your messing up the wardrobe." Azmo chuckled.
Paulu chuckled also before wiping his eyes and giving Azmo a lick on the cheek.
"I love you too bro."
__
"So, are you ready to go son?" Ben asked.
Everybody was all packed as they headed for the door.
"I guess," Paulu said softly.
Ben walked around and placed his hands on Paulu's shoulders.
"I know this is sudden Paulu. But your going to enjoy living with us. Just like a real family."
"I guess so."
"Great. Your going to love you new home and school."
They headed out and piled into their Ford Explorer. Ben started the car as it came alive with a soft purr and pulled out to the street.
"Next stop, the airport then home."
"Yeah," Karin cheered. "I'll show you to all my friend big brother."
Paulu was quiet as he watched the city go by. He saw the orphanage he was left at, his job and the mall.
"Can we stop by the hospital?" Paulu asked.
"The plane leaves in two hours son." Wanda said. "What do you need to do?"
"I want to see my brother one last time."
Wanda looked at Ben who sighed.
"Okay son. We'll make a stop at the hospital. But you have to make it quick. The plane leaves at twelve and we have to be there by ten thirty."
"Thank you."
They made a couple of turns before pulling into the Aquarian Hospital. Getting out, they walked in and went to the tenth floor via elevator. It reached the tenth floor with a bing as they got out and headed to room 1049. Paulu gave a knock before walking in.
"Hey bro," Paulu said with a smile.
Azmo took another spoonful of corn from the nurse before smiling at Paulu.
"Hey bro."
"How are you feeling?"
"Besides horrible hospital food, I'm fine."
Wanda, Ben, and Karin walked in as Azmo looked at them.
"Um........these are my parent Wanda, Ben, and my little sister Karin."
"How do you do? I would give you a bow but I'm a little beat up." Azmo said.
"Thank you for taking care of our son." Wanda said.
"Yes, thank you very much." Ben added.
Azmo looked at them before snorting.
"Glad to be doing your job for you."
"Excuse me?" Wanda said shocked along with everybody else.
"Desert the boy while he's just an infant cause of his color and come back when he's big so you can fit in with the snobs."
"How dare you."
"How dare you. You call yourself parents but you leave your first born. Why? So you wont have to deal with the people pointing and looking at you when you walk down the street. So you don't have to deal with the calls from school saying Paulu has been picked on by others. My mom took him in and even I hated him. But deep down, he's more of a parent then you two will ever be."
"You have no right to speak to use that way." Wanda growled.
"Your lucky I'm injured otherwise I'd knock some sense into both of you."
Ben let out a growl and was about to advance when Wanda stopped him.
"Lets go dear. He's not important anymore. Paulu we're leaving, now." Wanda said angrily.
Paulu watched them leave before looking at Azmo.
"I guess.......this is goodbye."
"Its never goodbye."
Paulu gave him a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"Thank you for everything."
"What are brothers for," Azmo said with a smile.
Paulu smiled before heading to the door. He gave a final look at his brother and nodded before leaving.
__
Deloris sat on the couch, eyes staring into nothing.
"You feeling okay cutie?" Bradley asked, holding her close and rubbing her shoulder.
"He's gone Bradley. Paulu's gone and never coming back."
She looked down at the small table seeing a picture they all took together. Paulu had on a nice tux along with Azmo as they stood on either side of her as she had a nice dress on sitting on a leather chair.
"We took this when he was fifteen. He was so handsome in that tux and so happy." she said tracing a finger around his face. "Now I'll never get to see his smile again."
"There's always Christmas and summer vacation hun."
"Its not the same Bradley." she said standing up and pacing. "I'll never get to hear him laugh or cuddle with him when he's sick."
Deloris started to cry as Bradley hugged her.
"I lose two people that I love and almost a third. I don't know what to do anymore Bradley."
"Shh. Everything will be all right hun."
__
"Flight number 1108 now arriving at gate E." the announcement said.
Paulu sat with his parents in the waiting room of Southwest airlines. Karin was sitting to his left reading Calvin and Hobbes and giggling.
"Look big brother, Calvin is funny."
"Yeah, a blast." Paulu said softly.
Karin looked at him, head tilted to the side.
"What's wrong big brother? Don't you want to live with us?"
Paulu looked at her before sighing.
"No, I don't."
"Why not? I miss you." she said whining.
"But I hardly know you or them."
"Mommy told me all about you though."
"What did she say?"
Karin tried to remember but couldn't. Paulu sighed as Ben and Wanda came back with the tickets in hand.
"We're all set son," Ben said handing him his ticket happily.
"In a few hours, we'll be home. Aren't you excited?" Wanda said, tail wagging happily.
Paulu looked at them then at the ticket in his hand.
"We'll get you enrolled in a good school. I'm sure you'll make the same friends and even a cute girlfriend back home. So cheer up son."
They sat there all smiles except Paulu who was deep in thought.
"If I leave, all my memories will be memories. I'll have to deal with new insults, new jerks and new situations that I don't want. Everybody here likes me for me, not my color."
"Son, are you okay?" Ben asked. "You're kind of quiet over there."
"He's just anxious dear. Leave him to his thoughts." Wanda said.
Paulu sat in the waiting room looking at the clock. It read eleven thirty."
"Attention Southwest passengers. Flight number 2120 to Florissant will now be boarding at gate C."
"That's us son." Ben said.
They got up and went into the line.
"Paulu!!!"
Paulu turned around to see Ruby running up.
"Ruby?"
She caught up and collected her breath.
"What are you doing here?" Paulu asked.
"I just wanted to say goodbye to you."
"You didn't have to."
"What kind of girlfriend would I be if I didn't?"
She hugged him and gave him a deep kiss.
"I'll miss you my blue knight."
"I'll miss you too kitty cat."
"Paulu, come on son." Wanda said.
Paulu gave Ruby another kiss before caressing her cheek.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
He reluctantly let her go and followed his new family into the plane.
__
Deloris laid on the couch asleep holding a pillow. She managed to cry herself to sleep as Bradley went to the store. The doorbell rang waking her up with a jump. She let out a groan and sat up rubbing her face.
"I'm coming," she said as the doorbell rang again.
She opened the door to see Ruby and a person she didn't expect to see.
"P........Paulu!?"
"Hey mom," he said rubbing the back of head. "Can I.......still live here?"
She laughed and cried while hugging him. They made it to the living room and sat down.
"What happened? What are you here?"
__
Paulu entered the gateway into the plane. The crew gave a wave before he found a spot next to Karin by the window. Wanda and Ben sat in the row next to them.
"I'm so excited. We're finally going to be together after being apart for so long." Wanda said happily.
"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. I'm your captain for this flight Tracey Sinclair. We will be flying non stop to Florissant at an altitude of thirty thousand feet. The flight will be exactly six hours and the weather is clear and blue. So sit back and enjoy the flight."
Karin was giddy as her tail was wagging non stop.
"Aren't you excited big brother?"
Paulu didn't answer as he looked out the window.
"Good afternoon again ladies and gentlemen. We just been informed we will be delayed a few minutes as the runways are jammed. We apologize for the daily and should be moving in roughly five to ten minutes."
"Its always something." Ben said.
Paulu's mind was racing as he looked at his town.
"So many memories. So many friends. Gone in five minutes. Mom and Azmo too. Ruby..........beautiful Ruby. She means everything to me. I can't let her go. I can't do it."
Paulu got up after unbuckling his seat belt.
"Where are you going son?" Ben asked.
"Back home, where I belong."
"But we're your family now," Wanda said.
"No, your not. I'm thankful you gave birth to me, but you left me mom. For thirteen years I've been verbally abused by people because of my color. Then I met the one person who saw a boy, not a thing. That person is my mother now. She showed me loved when people couldn't."
They looked at him in shocked as Paulu folded his ears.
"And the one person who showed me any kind of fatherly love, is laying in the hospital bed. I'm sorry, but my home is here."
"Paulu wait please," Wanda begged, tears in her eyes.
Paulu walked over and gave her a hug and a lick on her cheek.
"Take care of yourselves. I'll always remember you."
With that said, he walked off the plane to the waiting room. He looked around but didn't see Ruby. He caught her scent and ran after her. She was almost to the train station when she heard her name.
"RUBY!!"
She turned around and her eyes widen as Paulu ran to her. She met him halfway as they hugged tightly.
"What are you doing here? Why aren't you on the plane?"
"I couldn't do it. This is my home now and forever."
Ruby smiled and kissed him softly.
"Besides, I still have to finish painting you. I owe you that much." Paulu said with a grin.
"Ohh, well then I'm ready for my close up mister artist," Ruby purred.
__
"Sophie you know I hate this food. Why are you trying to shove it down my throat?" Azmo groaned.
"Because its healthy for you. Plus it has all the stuff you need to get your strength back. Don't argue with the nurse."
"Lock the door and I'll show you how much of my strength is back." Azmo grinned.
"Don't make empty threats. Now eat," she grinned stuffing a spoonful of rice into his mouth.
A knock was heard as Paulu and Ruby walked in.
"Cutie, your back." Sophie cheered.
"I couldn't leave." Paulu said. "You guys mean to much to me."
"Ahh, how adorable," Sophie cooed as she hugged Paulu.
Azmo looked at him with a straight face.
"You had a chance to be with your real parents and you blew it."
"Azmodius what are you saying?" Sophie asked.
"You're an idiot. WE aren't your real family Paulu."
"That's doesn't matter to me. You and Deloris are the only two people who saw me for me. You shown me love and compassion instead of hate and insults. As far as I'm concerned, Deloris is my mother and your my brother."
Azmo looked at him with amusement. He forced himself to a sitting position and held his hand out. Paulu walked over and grabbed it as Azmo pulled him into a hug.
"Welcome home brother," Azmo said with a smile.
"I'm home brother." Paulu said.
They broke off as Paulu gave him a quick kiss on the lips making the girls swoon.
"Shall we leave you two love birds alone?" Sophie said with a smile.
"Nah, four is better then two," Azmo said with a grin making Paulu and Ruby blush.
"Your disgusting," Sophie chuckled. "Which is why I love you."
"So your going to throw away that prison slop and get me a burger?"
"Guess again buster. Your going to eat every bite. And if your nice, maybe I'll give you a prostate exam."
"I think that's our cue. Come on Ruby, we should go. I'll see you tomorrow bro."
Azmo waved goodbye before groaning as he swallowed the bland food.
__
"Are you almost done?"
"Almost Ruby. Just a little more," Paulu said switching pencils.
His hands moved rapidly on the paper as his eyes danced back and forth. He did a couple more scribbles before smiling.
"Done."
Ruby got up from the beanbag and stretched before walking over to look. She was speechless as she looked at it. Everything about it was beautiful, from the shading to the texture. She was sitting on the beanbag with a beautiful smile, hands over her lap. The sun was peeking in from the covered windows as the couch looked alive with the pillows fluffed.
"Oh my god Paulu, its beautiful."
"Thanks. But its nothing compared to the real thing."
Ruby blushed before sitting in his lap hugging him. Paulu kissed her forehead making her purr.
"You really do have a way with art."
"I have great hands for the job."
"Really? Then how about we go upstairs and do a little body painting?" Ruby said tickling his chin making him murr as his tail wagged rapidly.
"I think I have a brush that can handle that." he said with a grin.