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Chapter XXVIII

Meanwhile, Back in Catlanna

"Teega." Using his pet name for her, Leo walked up behind Tigresa and put his arms around her waist and began nuzzling her neck.

Tigresa leaned back into his embrace and enjoyed his neck nuzzling. "Mmmm. Yes?"

"Edward, Jacob, and I are having lunch together today. All right?"

"Of course, Leo. You don't need my permission to have lunch with them. You know that."

"I know, Teega. I just like for you to know where I am. I feel safe knowing that you know."

Tigresa turned in Leo's embrace, smiled at him and said, "Where are you going for lunch today? One of the strip clubs?"

Playing along, Leo replied, "Oh, I don't know. You know how uptight Edward is. He's afraid Susan will find out and remind him that she's his wife when he gets home tonight."

Tigresa laughed and said, "Yeah. Sometimes I wonder whose ancestors were predators and whose were prey. When the three of you make up your minds, will you let me know?"

"Sure. You going to verify that's where we are?" Leo laughed.

"I'm not talking. It keeps you honest and on your toes." Tigresa said as she hugged and kissed Leo. "Besides, the three of you always have lunch together on the first Friday of every month. You've been doing it since we graduated from college. Susan, Ophelia and I have lunch together the same day. You know that."

Leo walked into the living room in response to someone knocking on the front door. He opened the door revealing Mrs. Khomyak. Just as he opened the door, he noticed a significantly younger-looking jackal with a big smile on his face while he was waving at Mrs. Khomyak as he drove away. Leo invited her in and took her to Anne's room.

Mrs. Khomyak picked Anne up, took a breath and said, "Anne, you are a little stinker."

Leo laughed at the comment but he laughed even harder when Anne pointed to her diaper and said, "Steenkuh."

Mrs. Khomyak changed Anne's diaper as she said, "You know, Dr. Panthera, I believe Anne is old enough to be potty-trained."

"Yes, she is. Would you mind helping us?"

"Of course, I should have her trained in a few days."

"Thank you, Mrs. Khomyak. Tigresa and I need to go to work. We'll see you this afternoon."

Just before Leo left Anne's room, she said, "Dada, Mah'l come see Anne?"

"Of course, he will, Anne. He'll be back in Catlanna in two days. I'm sure you'll be the first person he wants to see when he gets here."

"Uh-kay!"

Leo left Anne's room, got Tigresa and, arm in arm, walked with her to their car after telling Anne good-bye.

*****

Edward Blaidd walked up behind his wife, Susan, a white rabbit with light, but noticeable, gray markings, piercing blue eyes, and a model's body despite being in her early 40s and having given birth to seven wolf-rabbit kits, slipped his arms around her slim waist, pulled her to him in a hug, and gave her a loving kiss on the neck. Susan lay her head back onto his shoulder, brushing the side of his head with one of her ears.

"Mmmm. What do you want? Whatever it is, take your time telling me." Susan asked.

"Do I need a reason to nuzzle the neck of the most beautiful woman I've ever met?"

"You should be careful. I wouldn't want your wife to find out about us. You know how jealous she is."

"Don't worry. I've got her convinced you're a first cousin of mine."

Susan turned around, slipped her arms around his neck and kissed him. "Well," she said. "I guess I could get away with that since we look so much alike." They both laughed. "Seriously, though, are you going to remind me that you, Jacob, and Leo are having your monthly get together today?"

Still nuzzling her neck, he said, "Mm-hmm."

Laughing harder, she said, "You're tickling my neck fur, you silly wolf but, please, continue taking your time. It feels so good."

"You smell so good, Susan. It's hard for me to stop. I was one lucky wolf when you agreed to go out with me the first time."

Closing her eyes and moaning slightly as she enjoyed the sensation of his kisses, she replied, "Well, how could I resist you in your geeky glasses. Actually, though, my first date with you was supposed to be a joke."

Pulling back, he said, "What? What do you mean?"

"I was very picky in school. I wouldn't date anyone. I was even openly accused of being lesbian by some of the guys and girls. Finally, Tigresa made me promise to go out with the guy she chose to prove I wasn't. I was more than a little shocked and not a little happy when you knocked on my door."

"Why?"

"Because we had several classes together and I had seen how you would stare at me. Normally, if a wolf looks at a rabbit, especially the way you looked at me, the rabbit gets a little nervous. But, I only felt a desire to get to know you better. Unfortunately, you were the shy type and wouldn't say anything to me. When I found out you were my blind date, I was secretly thrilled."

Smiling, he said, "I guess you found out how shy I really am."

"Humph. Only after we got married. Now you are anything but shy, as our seven kits attest to."

He laughed. "Anyway, since you already know that today is my monthly get together with Leo and Jacob, I'll just let you know that we're going to the "Southern Buck" today. Where are you, Ophelia and Tigresa going?"

"I'm not certain. It's Ophelia's turn to choose. She always chooses either the 'Italian Greyhound' for their Italian food or the 'Texas Longhorn' for their steaks.

"You know, sweetheart, I really love Ophelia but sometimes her speciesism is a little over-the-top."

"I know. Ophelia's harmless, though; she just tends to speak her mind more than most. Just ignore her or steer the conversation in a different direction."

"Do you think she's upset because you sent Amanda with Michael to Jaguarville instead of one of the other secretaries?"

"Oh, I can guarantee it. Amanda reached the age of majority nine months ago and Ophelia still tries to make all of Amanda's decisions for her. According to Jacob, though, Amanda is happy to be with Michael and away from her mother. I wonder if--"

"Wonder if, what, Eddie?"

"Oh, nothing to worry your pretty little head about. It's something I need to discuss with Jacob."

"Of course, dear."

*****

"Now, Ophelia, enjoy yourself with Tigresa and Susan at lunch today. You know that Edward, Leo and I will be having lunch together, as well."

"Yes, Jacob."

Jacob thought, "Ophelia sounds a little depressed. I wonder if it's because I finally put my foot down and stopped her from trying to ruin Amanda's happiness once again. I guess we'll see."

He said, "Oh, Ophelia. Don't give Susan a hard time today. Okay?"

"Jacob, it goes against nature. She's a rabbit; he's a wolf."

"Ophelia, that part of nature ended for us over 19,000 years ago."

"Jacob--"

"No, Ophelia. I've humored you for almost 20 years. It's time you realized that love knows no bounds to species. Edward and Susan have been happily married for 22 years. They've got seven wolf-rabbit mix kits that they love equally well. So, please don't say anything even remotely antagonistic concerning inter-species marriage. Don't forget your great-great-great-great-grandmother was a Siberian tigress that fell in love with and married a red fox and my great-great-great-grandmother was a Javan tigress that also fell in love with and married a red fox. Both of those couples were happily married for over 60 years each."

"But, Jacob, those tigresses were full-blood. Besides, it was carnivore marrying carnivore. Edward and Susan are carnivore and herbivore."

"Get that out of your head, Ophelia; Edward and Susan are both omnivores. In fact, very few humanimals are strictly one or the other and those do it by choice."

"Well, what about their half-breed kits, Jacob?"

"Just--one--minute, Ophelia. Do not use that term to describe their pups. They are mixed blood, not half-breed."

"But--"

"No buts, Ophelia."

"Yes, Jacob.

"What about their mix-blood, kits? They'll never be able to find someone to love them. You know what that means. There's only one way they'll find anything that even resembles love. You know that, Jacob. You know about that odd-looking porn actress."

"Yes, I know about the porn actress you're referring to but, I believe she does porn by choice not because she can't find anyone who'd have her and no, I do not believe that mixed-blood Humanimals can't find someone to love them, Ophelia. As a matter of fact, Thomas Blaidd has found someone who loves him immensely."

"I can't believe it."

"Believe it. What you won't believe is who loves him."

"Who?"

"Victoria."

With utter disbelief in her voice, Ophelia said, "Panthera? Leo and Tigresa's daughter? Well, I guess I can believe it. After all, she's half-lion and half-tiger."

"Ophelia, they've liked each other since they were cubs. Thomas was too shy to ask her out. So, she asked him." Jacob paused for a few seconds for effect before continuing with, "Guess who gave her that idea?"

"Who?"

"Michael."

"Michael!?" Ophelia replied, not hiding her disgust.

"Yes, Michael. He suggested to Victoria that she ask Thomas to a group get together to put him at ease with being seen in public with her. Michael made that suggestion the day before he went to SoGa Industries to apply for a job."

Ophelia slowly shook her head as she said, "Why would he want to help Victoria?"

"As I understand it, Victoria had been flirting with him outrageously and he has a mental block about it. So, when she mentioned that Richard had been ignoring her for five years, Michael put two and two together and figured out why."

"And that was?"

"When Victoria entered puberty, Richard started to look at her as a possible mating prospect."

"Ewwww."

"Richard thought the same thing and chose to ignore Victoria rather than to give in to that. Now, things are better between them, thanks to Michael."

Jacob kissed Ophelia and said, "I've got to go to work, Honey. Enjoy lunch with the ladies and I'll see you this evening."

*****

At noon, Leo arrived at the "Southern Buck" restaurant. He walked up to the hostess, a red wolfess by the name of Tanaya Loborojo, who looked at him and smiled. "They're at your usual table, Mr. Panthera."

"Thank you, Tanaya."

Leo went to the table and found Edward and Jacob sitting there talking. When they saw him, they arose, shook hands all around, exchanged greetings, and sat down.

Edward said, "We told the waitress that we're waiting on someone else before we ordered. Now that you're here, we can order."

Jacob said, "Well, just remember Edward, the phrase eating like a wolf is just a figure of speech." Leo and Edward laughed.

They picked up their menu and perused it deciding what they wished for lunch. After making their selection, all three chose a broiled venison steak and the accompanying vegetables, the waitress took their order and the menus and left. After the waitress left, they chatted about what they had gone through the previous month. Several minutes later, the waitress returned with their meal.

After they finished their meal, the three of them were enjoying a glass of southern sweet tea, with a slice of lemon of course. As usual, the lunch was followed by general conversation.

After enjoying a long draught of his tea, Edward said, "Jacob, do you think we could find an excuse to send Michael and Amanda on a weeklong trip once a month?"

Jacob smiled and said, "Why?"

"Ever since she started working at SoGa, Amanda seems to know when I'm caught up with my paperwork and brings me a new stack bigger than my previous one. Bertha seems to be nervous about intruding. So, for the past week, I've had a paid vacation while at work." He laughed.

Jacob said, "Well, when she gets back Monday, Amanda is liable to be completely refreshed and, as a result, ready to put you back to work." All three men laughed uproariously.

Leo looked at Jacob but spoke to Edward and said, "Edward, out of curiosity, why did you send Amanda. You could have sent any of the other secretaries."

"Leo, you know why I did. Amanda would have been miserable all week. She looks forward to seeing Michael every day. To have prevented that would have been abuse." Once again, the three of them laughed loudly.

Edward glanced at Leo before saying, "Jacob, do you think they did it?"

"If you're referring to sexual relations, I doubt it."

"Why not?"

"Michael is too honorable, too much in love with Amanda, to do that. However, I do know they shared a bed."

Leo and Edward frowned before Leo said, "Why do you say that?"

"Because Amanda started her heat last Friday. We all know how a Humanimal woman gets when she's in heat and near the man she loves. I have no doubt she begged Michael for sex and Michael refused.

"Friday night, Ophelia made a special trip to Jaguarville after she found out where Amanda was, thanks to the temp that was sitting at Bertha's desk."

"Now, Jacob, that wasn't her fault. She didn't know Ophelia and her attitude toward Amanda."

"I know. I'm not blaming her; I'm just wishing I had an idea that Ophelia was planning on talking to the temp. Anyway, when I got there, Michael was protecting Amanda from her. Amanda was crying and cowering from her mother and Michael was standing between them. I sent Ophelia to the lobby while I told Michael I didn't care if they made love as long as Amanda was happy."

"But, you said they didn't do it? How do you know?"

"I called Amanda Saturday afternoon. She told me how pleasurable it was sharing Michael's bed. When I asked her if she was still a virgin, in a somewhat sad voice, she said, 'Yes'. She told me that Michael wouldn't let her sleep with him unless she was fully dressed."

Leo and Edward looked at each other and smiled. Edward said, "I'm surprised Amanda said that. I mean, guys tend to incur father's wrath if he discovers that his innocent little girl is no longer an innocent little girl."

Leo snickered. Jacob looked at him and said, "Don't laugh, Leo. Victoria is Amanda's age, you know."

Leo sobered quickly and, after stuttering for a few seconds, managed to say "Well, if Victoria isn't a virgin any longer, there's nothing I can do about it now, although I'm pretty sure that, despite her outrageous flirtatiousness, she's still a virgin."

Edward and Jacob laughed uproariously and was soon joined by Leo. After the laughter died down, Leo looked at Edward and said, "Besides, Thomas was the first guy she ever dated more than twice. He's a rabbit, and you know what they say about rabbits. So . . ." He trailed off significantly ominous.

Edward said, "He's only half rabbit, thank you. Besides, if he's experienced Victoria, she was the aggressor. You know how shy he is compared to her."

Leo laughed and replied, "Kind of like his father but, you're right. The day before Michael went to SoGa to see about a job, Victoria was coming on to him, in front of me and Tigresa. If Michael hadn't had his mental block about relationships with humanimals, he'd likely be my son-in-law, Jacob."

Once again, all three men laughed uproariously.

*****

Susan arrived at the "Italian Greyhound" and walked in. The hostess, a koala named Orsola Fratelli, approached with a menu in her hand. She said, "One?"

"No, I'm meeting a couple of friends here."

"Oh? What are their names? Perhaps they've already arrived."

"Ophelia Fuchs and Tigresa Panthera."

"Ah, you must be Susan. They told me they were waiting for you. They're right this way."

Miss Fratelli led Susan to a booth in the back of the restaurant. Ophelia and Tigresa arose when she arrived and Tigresa gave her a warm, friendly hug. Ophelia also hugged her but it wasn't as warm, nor nearly as friendly. But, then, Ophelia had never been one to show either Susan or Tigresa a lot of affection. In fact, she had rarely shown affection to anyone other than Jacob.

Susan said, "Well, I see I'm the slowpoke again. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm really a rabbit." She laughed lightly with Tigresa joining her.

Tigresa said, "Oh, I don't know, Susan. Ophelia beat me here. Besides, feral rabbits are known more for their dodging abilities than they are for a flat-out race, ancient human fables notwithstanding."

Ophelia, not wanting to be left out of the conversation, said, "Well, I was here first but Tigresa arrived before I sat down good."

Tigresa said, "That's true. In fact, Ophelia hadn't even straightened her dress before I was sitting down."

"I would have been here sooner but, the baby wanted to be a bit cranky before the sitter arrived. So, I had to soothe him until he fell back asleep."

The waitress, a ferret with faint, barely noticeable, tiger stripes and the name, Melissa, on her name tag, arrived and handed each of them a menu and took their drink orders. Tigresa watched her as she left. Finally, she said, "You know, she kind of reminds me of my Elizabeth, only a few years older."

Ophelia said, "How so?"

"Well, I can tell she's part tiger, even though her stripes are really light. But, I know she isn't part lion. She kind of reminds me of a mink or a ferret." In a whisper, she added, "I never could tell them apart."

Susan and Ophelia laughed, Susan more loudly than Ophelia. "Tigresa," Susan said in mock shock, "I can't believe you'd say such a prejudiced thing."

"Susan, you can't tell them apart any better than I can," Tigresa said, laughing.

Ophelia said, "I believe the difference is in their lifestyle and fur coloration. Also, the minks have a small webbing between their fingers because feral minks were more swimmers more than ferrets are. The webbing only reaches the first knuckle of Humanimals. Other than that, it's difficult to tell the difference between them."

Tigresa and Susan looked at Ophelia with unabashed shock. Susan said, "Ophelia, I had no idea you were so well versed in racial differences."

Looking a bit ashamed, Ophelia replied, "I had to learn because of Amanda. Since I was accused of cheating on Jacob on the night before we were married, I learned quite a bit about the different races. Some differences between the races are so subtle that, unless you know exactly what to look for, you can't tell the difference between them. For example, Tigresa, do you know the major difference between rabbits and hares?"

"No, Ophelia. I can't say as I do."

"I won't ask Susan since she is a rabbit. But, the major physical differences between them are hares have longer and more pointed ears and they have slightly longer legs plus, feral rabbits are more forest, swamp, and marsh dwellers and feral hares dwell in open areas like tundra and deserts."

As the ladies talked, they read their menus and decided on what they wanted for lunch. Ophelia said, "I believe I'll have the broiled chicken strips."

Tigresa laughed and said, "Ophelia, you always have chicken. You should alter your meat once in a while."

"What would you suggest, then?"

"How about the broiled mahi-mahi? I understand they use special Italian herbs and seasonings to bring out the flavor to perfection."

Susan said, "Hmm. Mahi-mahi sounds good."

Ophelia looked at her in surprise. "As long as I've known you, I still have a hard time believing you eat meat, Susan." Susan looked at her curiously. "It's just that I still see you as a rabbit even though I know that all humanimals are omnivorous."

"I understand, Ophelia. I do eat a lot of vegetables, though, but, I like meat at least once a day."

"What kind of meat do you eat?"

"All kinds. Well, I like fish, venison, beef, pork, chicken, and all the different kinds of meat you eat. I'm surprised you didn't know."

"I guess I did know. I just didn't want to accept it as the truth.

"Maybe you're right, Tigresa. I should vary my diet a bit. I'll try the broiled mahi-mahi, too. What about you?"

Somewhat ashamed, Tigresa said, "Well, I was going to order venison but, since I sort of chastised you for not varying your diet, I guess I'll have mahi-mahi as well." All three of them laughed.

The waitress returned with their drinks and took their orders. After retrieving the menus, she left and the ladies returned to their talking.

Ophelia returned to her curiosity about Susan's eating habits. "Susan, it doesn't bother you to eat meat? I mean, you don't have canines like Tigresa and I do."

"Ophelia, you don't need enlarged canines to eat meat. In fact, that's no indicator that you're carnivorous. Before the changing, canines on carnivores were only used to hold and kill prey and to fight with. The carnassial teeth, also known as bicuspids, were used to eat meat in carnivores. They were used to cut meat into smaller, more easily digestible pieces. There are numerous herbivorous animals that have enlarged canines, equines for example. They use their canines to fight and intimidate rivals. After the changing, we all gained the human flat-topped molars that are used for grinding food to make it more easily digestible."

"Oh. I guess I should have paid closer attention to biology in school." Tigresa and Susan laughed. Ophelia continued, "So, is that the reason you don't have a problem with being married to a wolf, Susan?"

Susan paused for several seconds before she responded. "Ophelia, please don't start that again. I love you like a sister; I really do. But, it really bothers me when you bring that up."

Ophelia stopped, with her mouth open. Then, she said, "I'm sorry, Susan. Jacob told me to not say anything about that and I really meant to not say anything. I guess I'm too much of a speciesist to not say anything. If I've offended you, please forgive me."

Susan smiled and said, "I forgive you, Ophelia, and I'm not offended. I know you have a hard time accepting my situation. But, you don't know the reason I married Edward and I'd prefer to not talk about it while we're eating. I'll tell you one day, just not today. All right?"

"Of course, Susan. Thank you for understanding that I didn't intend to offend you."

*****

Leo said, "Speaking of Michael, Jacob when are you going to tell him the truth?"

"Truth? What truth?"

Edward said, "Jacob, don't play coy with us. We've known you since college. You know what truth Leo's talking about."

"I'll tell Michael the truth, as you call it, the day he and Amanda get married."

"Why? You've already got his future planned out for him, without his knowledge I might add."

"I have nothing of the sort. His future is his to make. Whether it includes Amanda or not is up to him."

"But, you want it to include her, don't you? Otherwise, you wouldn't have given him your blessings on, what did the humans used to call it, closing the deal?"

Faking a shocked look, Jacob said, "Edward! I can't believe you'd imply that I would approve of Michael having a sexual relationship with Amanda before they get married."

All three of them laughed. Leo said, "Well, I will admit that, even though I wouldn't have wanted Michael and Victoria to share a bed, even platonically, I could think of worse people for her to be involved with."

Edward said, "Such as Thomas?"

"Now, Edward, I like Thomas. I would be happy with him as a son-in-law. No, I'm referring to those guys that have no ambition, no drive, and no desire to improve their lot in life. Those are the guys I'm talking about. Victoria dated more than one of those in high school. Most of them thought that, since she's half-blood, she's some kind of a sex maniac. Until she and Thomas started dating, she rarely dated the same guy more than once or twice."

Jacob said, "Well, Michael and Thomas definitely don't fit into that category. Amanda told me a couple of months ago that he's improved efficiency at SoGa Industries by well over 75%."

Edward said, "I can guarantee it, Jacob. He's constantly walking around the building looking at how people are doing their job. You know, maybe we should add Efficiency Expert to his title with pay commensurate with the position."

"That sounds good. What do you think, Leo?"

"What kind of increase in pay are you talking about?"

"I don't know, 25%?"

Leo said, "That sounds more than equitable and a bargain as well. He thinks his pay rate is fantastic."

Edward said, "He told me that a C.I.T manager in his time would have made the equivalent of 80,000 Yenars a year. So, to him, 130,000 Yenars is fantastic."

There was a brief pause in the conversation as the three men thought about how their life had changed since Michael had awoken. Finally, Jacob said, "You know, Michael has been a big influence on all of us, hasn't he?"

Leo said, "Yes, he has. Through his patience, he has made Mary more tolerant of men, especially him. Anne adores him because he spends so much time playing with her. She loves him so much that, if he doesn't visit her at least once a week, she's despondent. Fortunately, he visits almost every Sunday."

Edward said, "I understand what you're saying, Leo. I've seen him spend a few minutes with each of the secretaries after our Monday morning meeting. Michelle, who's never trusted men since I've known her, actually smiles at him when he arrives on our floor. I understand that he convinced Albert Rooikat to tone down his rambunctiousness around her and she's starting to warm up to him. I understand that Albert and Michelle are dating, seriously dating."

Jacob said, "Good. I've always liked Michelle. She seems to be a sweet girl. I believe she could use some romance in her life.

"Michael has even helped Amanda. He's always telling her how beautiful and smart she is. Amanda, though, tends to make Michael nervous. Last Saturday, while she was in heat, he was talking to me on the telephone and she walked out of the bathroom completely naked and unnerved him to no end." He laughed. "I guess Michael's still getting used to Humanimal women being in heat.

"Speaking of Michael, which reminds me of my wife." Edward and Leo looked at him questioningly. "I'm referring to Ophelia's complete dislike of him. I wonder if Ophelia is being civil toward Susan."

"What do you mean?" Edward asked.

"I told her to stop being so contrary where your marriage is concerned. I told her to stop saying hurtful things to Susan."

"Well, I told Susan to ignore anything Ophelia said that hurt her and steer the conversation in a different direction if she did say anything hurtful."

"Good. Maybe between the two of us, Ophelia won't upset Susan today."

*****

Michael and Amanda returned to where Sheila, Zig Zag, and Sabrina were sitting. Michael said, "Zig Zag, what are the three of you doing this afternoon?"

"Well," Zig Zag looked at her watch and said, "the convention begins in about 30 minutes, so we'll be busy this afternoon. Why?"

"I've decided to treat everyone to dinner this evening. Amanda says she wants fried chicken. What about everyone else?"

Zig Zag thought for a moment and said, "I'm really in the mood for Chownese. Are there any good Chownese restaurants in the area?"

"As a matter of fact, there is. It's the Golden Panda and it's owned by a panda who was born in a small village in central Chowna. It's about three blocks east of here. Oh, by the way, don't be surprised when you see the owner and chef. He's a golden panda."

Zig Zag said, "What? Are you kidding?"

"Nope. Mr. Jinse Xiongmao has a rare genetic condition in which the white parts of his fur are a golden yellow."

Sabrina said, "Interesting. I hope he won't mind if I take his picture. I've never seen a golden panda before and I know Lee hasn't seen one either."

Amanda said, "Lee?"

Michael responded, "Sabrina's fiancé. They've known each other since they were five and four years old."

"Oh. I guess I overreacted."

"No, Sweetheart. You didn't know; therefore, you reacted as you thought you should."

Amanda whispered, "Michael, do they have fried chicken there? I'm really craving some since I've had to curtail my desire for it all week."

Michael smiled and whispered back, "I would think they do. Fried chicken wings used to be a staple of Chinese restaurants when I was growing up."

Sabrina asked, "Michael, why are you treating all of us to dinner? You barely know us."

"Well, Sabrina, it's because of you."

"Me?"

"Yes, Amanda walked away because she was upset and jealous of you. She thought that I loved you."

"What?" Sabrina reacted with surprise.

"Yes. Because of her jealousy of you, I was able to say something to her that I had wanted to say for the last couple of days. I just didn't know how to do it."

Sheila asked, "What is that?"

"I told her that I loved her and I wanted to have a relationship with her."

Sheila squealed with delight and Zig Zag said, "All right! I'm so glad that you did that, Michael. I just knew you loved her more than you were willing to admit to. I could see it in your eyes as you looked at her. The convention closes at 1100 this afternoon. We'll wait for you here."

"All right, Zig Zag. Come on, Amanda, if you're willing to wait until tonight for your chicken, we can have a sandwich and walk along the river walk and enjoy the cool breeze off the river."

Zig Zag said, "I can hardly wait for dinner. I haven't had an authentic Chownese meal since the last time we were in San Fincisco two years ago."

*****

At 1100, Michael and Amanda were walking into the lobby of the convention center and saw Zig Zag and everyone else waiting on them. They walked the few blocks to the Golden Panda. Everyone entered the Golden Panda and were greeted by Mei Xiongmao. She seated everyone and handed them menus. She looked at Michael and said, "Are these friends of yours, Michael?"

"No, Mei." He pointed to Sheila and said, "She's Amanda's first cousin and," he pointed at Zig Zag and said, "she's a distant cousin to Amanda," and pointing to Sabrina, he added, "and she works for her." He pointed at Zig Zag again.

"I am very pleased to make the acquaintance of you. Michael and Amanda have visited our restaurant a couple of times since they have been in Jaguarville." Mei stared at Zig Zag as she spoke. Finally, she said, "Pardon me but you look like a tiger but not a tiger."

Zig Zag said, "I'm a quarter tiger and three-quarter skunk."

"Ah, like the . . . Oh, my, God. You're her, aren't you?"

Michael was surprised to see embarrassment cross Zig Zag's face. "Yes. But, I'm trying to not draw attention to myself. I hope you don't mind."

"Oh, I understand. Do you mind if I tell my father? He knows of you and has always stated he'd love to meet you one day."

Zig Zag smiled and laughed quietly before saying, "As long as he doesn't make a big deal out of it."

Before she left, Mei asked, "Will everyone take tea to drink?" After everyone nodded an affirmative, she said, "I shall return shortly to take your orders." She left.

Shortly after Mei left, Jinse entered the dining room and walked straight to their table. "Michael, Amanda, it is good to see you again. Mei's fiancee would like to meet and speak with you."

Michael looked at Jinse with understanding and smiled at him. "What's so funny, Michael?" Jinse asked.

"I knew it."

"Knew what, Michael?"

"Where's your Chownese accent, Mr. Xiongmao?"

Jinse laughed and said, "You are a very observant young man, Michael. Yes, I don't have much of an accent anymore. My wife taught me to speak without one. However, she said that in a Chownese restaurant, most patrons would be a bit suspicious of a Chownese cook who didn't have a Chownese accent. So, I cultivated the accent and only speak it at work and to strangers. Because you and Amanda have become regular customers, I feel safe in speaking with my normal voice rather than that stereotypical one." He laughed again.

"You had given yourself away a little the last time we were in here. I was just hoping that I'd catch you without the accent.

"Now, about Mei's fiancee, when does he wish to meet and speak with me?"

"He would like to speak with you Saturday evening if that's all right."

"It's fine with me. I look forward to meeting the tiger that's won your daughter's heart. I intend to visit St. Alsatian Saturday so ask him to call me before he comes to the hotel. We're in the Marmoset Hotel. I'm in room 1109.

"Oh, by the way, may I introduce some new friends?" Pointing to each in turn, Michael said, "This is Sabrina Mordaces, Sheila Vixen, and Zig Zag."

Speaking to Zig Zag, Jinse said, "Ah, yes. My daughter told me you were here, Guniang Zig Zag."

"Are you a fan?"

"Oh no, Miss Zig Zag. I have friends who are fans, though. They had told me about your unique fur pattern. Because of my fur color, I'm always interested in meeting others with unique fur patterns or colors. That's one of the reasons I like Guniang Amanda. Michael said that she is, technically, full-blood red fox but she looks like a tigress."

Mei, who had been standing patiently behind her father, said, "Dad, please allow them to order their meal."

Jinse laughed, "My daughter is ever one to do her job, especially if it means she gets to leave early. Please to enjoy your meal with us today."

Each of them ordered their meal and Mei left them to bring their drinks. Amanda sat as close to Michael as she could. Michael, for his part, openly enjoyed her attentions. She wasn't as clingy as she had been a week ago but she still acted as though she was afraid he was going to leave and never return. Michael tried to reassure her by putting his arm around her shoulders and letting her press her body against his while they talked to the others. When their meal arrived, they continued to talk and enjoy each other's company. Michael learned that most of what he had read in the comics as he grew up had actually happened to Zig Zag and Sabrina. He didn't know as much about Sheila but, he did learn that her sister, Tammy, had retired from doing porn when her boyfriend and onscreen partner had died of cancer at a relatively young age.

After they had finished eating, Mei continued to bring them something to drink as they visited and talked. Zig wanted to learn everything she could about her new cousin and was dismayed when she learned that Ophelia hadn't treated Amanda with love. Zig remembered how her kithood hadn't been the warm loving kithood that she had seen others enjoy but, even though she hadn't been around that much, her mother hadn't been the kind of mother that continually found fault with her looks as Ophelia had been of Amanda's. Michael learned that Zig Zag had quite the wonderful sense of humor and continually made jokes, some were crude but most were clean. She also told her version of some of the stories that Sabrina had told him earlier in the day. Her version of those stories was even funnier than Sabrina's, even Amanda laughed at some of the situations.

Jinse closed the restaurant at 1500 and, subtly suggested that everyone leave and go somewhere else. Michael suggested going to The Caribou bar and grill for a few drinks before they called it an evening. The group walked the three blocks to the bar and got a booth.

As he entered The Caribou, Michael looked around and saw a mixed group of humanimals and a few humans. He also noticed how the men were looking at him, or was it Zig Zag; Michael wasn't certain. Michael suggested that Zig Zag sit as far in as possible and, despite giving him a strange look, she did as he suggested. Michael's suspicion turned out to be right because they had barely gotten settled when a burly looking wolverine approached their booth.

The wolverine looked at Michael and said, "How much?"

Michael looked at him curiously and said, "How much? How much what?"

"How much for time with one of your girls?"

Michael understood what he was implying and, even though it angered him, said calmly, "Sorry. You've got the wrong idea. These ladies aren't prostitutes. They're friends of mine. We're here to get acquainted and enjoy ourselves."

"No man has four women with him just to talk and I recognize her." He pointed at Zig Zag.

"I don't care what you believe and who you recognize, we're here to enjoy ourselves. Nothing else."

The wolverine bent down and got right in Michael's face causing Michael to scrunch up his face from the smell of beer on the wolverine's breath. "Now listen, human. You're the only guy with four very attractive women and I want to spend time with one of them. How much!?"

About this time, an equally burly tiger walked up. "Is there a problem here?"

The wolverine turned quickly and said, "This ain't none of your business. I'm trying to conduct a bit of business with this human."

The tiger looked at Michael and said, "Is that true? Is he conducting business with you?"

"No sir." Michael pointed to everyone in her turn and said, "This is my girlfriend, next to her is a distant cousin of hers, next to her is her first cousin, and at the end is an employee of her." He pointed back at Zig Zag.

The wolverine whispered, rather loudly, "Don't you recognize that tiger-striped skunk, Anthony, that's Zig Zag, the porn actress."

"Carl, I don't care who she is. She's a customer in this bar and she'll be treated with respect."

"But, . . ."

"No buts, Carl. Now, either leave them alone or I'll be forced to have you leave."

Zig Zag said, "If we're going to cause a distraction, maybe we should leave."

"No, ma'am. Carl's been here for several hours and he's a little miffed that he can't find someone to share his bed tonight. He's taking it out on you." Anthony looked hard at Carl before continuing, "I'm sure he's ready to leave. Aren't you, Carl?"

Carl looked at Anthony and said, "Yeah. I guess I am." With an angry scowl at Michael, Carl turned and weaved his way toward the door and left.

Anthony said, "I'm terribly sorry, sir. I should have gotten here sooner but I was dealing with another rather rowdy customer. Carl's usually a pretty good guy, except when he's had a few too many and he starts pestering the female customers."

"That's all right, Anthony."

Looking at Zig Zag, Anthony said, "Are you really Zig Zag?"

Straightening herself up so her rather noticeable breasts could be more easily seen, Zig Zag said, "Yes, I am. Do you want an autograph?"

"Oh, no. But, if my future father-in-law knew you were in town, he'd be trying to find you for one."

"Well, why don't you get me a pen and a piece of paper and I'll give you one to show him."

"Really? You'd do that for me? Thanks." Anthony left rather hurriedly.

Michael said, "Zig, you really don't need to do that."

"Spoilsport. How do you think I'm going to remain on top of my profession if I don't cater to the requests of my fans?"

Anthony returned with the pen and paper and, rather shyly, handed them to Zig Zag. She signed the paper with "To Anthony. Thanks for your help tonight. Zig Zag". Michael noticed how she signed the paper and smiled as he saw a rather large Z with ig above ag next to it.

"There you go, Anthony. Show that to your future father-in-law and make him jealous."

"Gee. Thanks, Zig Zag. I'll do just that." Anthony started to leave when Zig Zag grabbed his shirt and kissed him in front of the whole bar. Anthony's knees buckled and he fell to the floor.

"Oh, my." Zig Zag said, "I think I may have overdone it."

Michael and Amanda just put their heads in the hands and sighed.

*****

Finally, around 1800, the group broke up and Michael and Amanda headed back to their rooms at the Marmoset Hotel. Michael was surprised when Zig Zag and her group entered the Marmoset, too. Zig explained that she had booked the entire 9th floor for her group. Before they parted ways, Zig told Michael that she expected an invitation to their wedding which she predicted would be in less than a year. Michael laughed and said that as far as he was concerned the three of them had an invitation but it would be up to Amanda. Amanda, who had warmed significantly to Zig and Sheila, said she would most definitely invite them, especially if it would cause her mother any amount of consternation which caused everyone to laugh. Just before Zig and her group got off the elevator, she stuffed a small piece of paper into one of Michael's pockets.

"My studio's mailing address, Michael. I'm sure you'd rather send the invitations there rather than my private home."

"I know it would make Amanda feel better if we did it that way."

*****

Michael and Amanda reached their rooms and Michael walked her to her door. When they arrived, Amanda turned, put her arms around Michael's neck, pulled him close, and kissed him. Michael had put his arms around her waist and held her close during the kiss.

"Are you going to sleep in your room tonight?" He asked.

Looking at him with a bit of a shocked look on her face, Amanda replied, "Michael Thomson, are you implying that we should share a bed before we get married?"

Smiling, Michael said, "Well, since you put it that way, I guess not. I wouldn't want to sully your reputation by giving the impression that we're not pure and chaste in our relationship."

"That's right, big boy, and don't you forget it."

Kissing her one more time, Michael said, "Good night, my dear. I'll see you in my dreams and then, I'll see you in the morning."

He turned back to his door and opened it. When he turned on the lights, he looked at his bed and saw Amanda already under the covers and holding them up for him to climb in. He laughed and said, "Let me get ready for bed. I'll be out of the bathroom in a few minutes."

"Hurry. I don't want to get cold waiting for you."

Michael laughed lightly and went into the bathroom, changed clothes, got into bed, and cuddled up to her.

As they lay there before they fell asleep, Amanda said, "Michael, you don't have to worry about what you said to me earlier today. I'll just be happy knowing that you are the best friend I've ever had and that includes Victoria, Penny, Bertha, Wanda, and Michelle."

"Amanda," Michael replied as he pulled her closer to him, "you don't understand. I meant every word. I had a nightmare this morning before I found you in bed with me. That nightmare and the dream that followed it convinced me that I need to let you know about my true feelings for you. Now, let's get some sleep. I need to decide where I want to visit tomorrow. I want to go to either St. Alsatian or visit the Oakefernokee Swamp.

"Oh, I don't think I've heard you mention Penny."

"Her name is Penny Wydra. She's half-otter/half-raccoon. She works as a waitress at 'The Blue Deer' restaurant. If you've ever eaten there," Amanda stopped as she remembered the night that she and her family had dinner there after she got hired at SoGa Industries.

"What's wrong?"

"You've met Penny. She must have been your waitress the night after you woke up from stasis. She told me and my family about the human that was with the Panthera family that night. I wanted to go see Victoria but my mother wouldn't allow it. Now, I wish I had been allowed to go. I would have met you under less painful circumstances." She laughed causing Michael to laugh as well.

"Ah, now I know who you're talking about. She's very pretty. I loved her markings. She looked more like an otter with raccoon markings."

They both were cuddled quietly for a few minutes before they both fell asleep, each dreaming his own special dream.