*Bleep, bleed, bleed*
The sound from the digital alarm clock awakens the family of three.
“8am. That’s not a bad time to be up at.” The lioness says as she switches off the alarm with her paw.
“Not too early, not too late either.”
Leo props himself up, against the bed frame and rubs his eyes, whilst Rachael lets out a loud hyena yawn from underneath her bed sheets.
“Aside from that bad dream, how did you sleep Leo?” the feline asks her adopted wolf child.
“Oh, I slept like a log mum” the wolf says with smile. He then says with a slight hint of sorrow in his voice “I really wish, I’d stop having these awful nightmares about Kate. It really feels like I’m back at her place before I met you and Rachael.”
“I’m sure you’ll grow out of having these bad dreams hon” the feline tells him reassuringly. “Just give it time.”
“Thank you, mum.”
“Now how about we go to the beach today? I’m sure that will be fun for the three of us.”
“Alright! Now that sounds like a great idea” the hyena says in an excited tone of voice. “I saw in a brochure, that there a is a good weightlifting station at the beach.”
“I reckon it should be fun. I can’t wait to go swimming” Leo says, his busy tail wagging underneath the bed sheets.
“Perfect, a trip to the beach it is then” the lioness says.
Now fully awake, Leo clambers out of Angel’s bed and makes his way towards the bedroom door. However, he stops in his tracks and says to Angel:
“Thank you for letting me bunk in with you, last night mum.”
“It’s alright honey. Your sleep matters. Now, if you’re thinking of chilling in your room, then I will call you when breakfast has been ordered.”
“Alright! Thanks mum.”
“Is there anything you want for breakfast in particular?”
“Honestly, I don’t mind mum. I’m sure whatever you order will be great.”
“Sure, thing Leo. Also, here’s an idea. Since we are going to the beach today, I’d wear your trunks underneath your clothes. That way, it’ll save us a lot of hassle trying to find a changing room.”
“That’s a great idea mother. Thanks” the wolf says with a smile before he exists the room and makes his way back to his own room.
Back inside his hotel room, the young wolf changes into a black pair of swimming trunks, before he puts on a light blue t-shirt. The trunks he wears are, just like shorts so he won’t bother with jeans today. Leo then pulls out a chunky volume of Akira from his backpack and settles himself down on his bed. For the next half an hour, Leo reads his comic, engaged in the sci-fi world of Neo-Tokyo, the eye-catching artwork and the intense action scenes that unfold.
Then of course, Angel calls him that breakfast is on its way, so Leo puts his book down and makes his way into the dinning room area. The young canine is greeted by Angel, who is clad in a purple sleeveless summer dress. Shortly, Rachael joins them at the dinning table. The today canine sports a white vest top and cut-off jeans. Leo can’t help but wonder, what type of swimsuits Angel and Rachael, will be wearing underneath their clothes. They both owed so many. Though, he highly doubts that Rachael will be wearing that green bikini of hers, a rather tight and revealing one, decorated with white polka-dots.
Minutes later, their breakfast was delivered into their hotel room on a trolly, by a crow. The bird carefully placed the plates onto the dining table before he lifted off the silver lids, that cover the plates to reveal plump Quorn sausages, crispy fried tomatoes, mushrooms, creamy scrambled eggs and a pile of golden-brown toast. The sight alone made Leo’s mouth water.
After tipping off the crow, the family proceeded to eat their breakfast. Altogether, it tasted fantastic; Leo even tried different combinations of the different items on his plate; deciding that the eggs, tomatoes, and toast tasted the best together. After the trio had finished their breakfast, they loaded the plates and cutlery onto the serving trolley and took it out into the corridor, where it would presumably be collected.
Once their food had gone down, it was time for the beach. Angel and Rachael packed some towels into their rucksack along with some other items they’d need such as money and sunscreen. While his adopted family prepared things, Leo could not help but feel extremely excited, since beaches had always been his favorite environments. The last time he’d been to a beach had been a few months earlier when as Angel had taken him down to Swanage beach in Dorset for a day trip. It had been alright, though the weather had been far too cold for swimming. Going to a beach in California would be an experience, especially since the weather was quite warm for a winter month.
“Well,” said Leo, “I’m ready if two you are.”
“Then let’s hit the seaside!” said Angel as she threw on her sunglasses.
“Oh, I almost forgot!” said Leo as he dashed into his room and fetched his sunglasses out of his backpack before coming back. “Now I’m ready!” he said as he flipped his sunglasses on.
**************
Ten minutes after leaving the hotel, Leo, Angel and Rachael stepped onto the boardwalk (which was actually made of concrete) of Firewall City Municipal Beach.
“Hell yeah!” said Angel, “This place looks amazing!”
“It’s nice and warm, alright!” said Leo, “Nothing at all like Swanage beach.”
“I’ll say;” said Angel, “Well, let’s not waste any more time!” She pulled her dress off of her to reveal a Union Jack bikini. Leo also pulled off his t-shirt and kicked off his sandals. Angel stowed her dress and Leo’s shirt in her bag for safekeeping. Rachael stripped off her outer clothing reveling a green one-piece swimsuit decorated with designs of flowers and plants, before stuffing her own clothes into her backpack.
“Are you two alright with lugging those around all day?” Leo asked.
“It beats renting lockers out for the whole day;” said Rachael, “And there’ll be some nice dry towels for when we’re done.”
“What do you want to do first?” asked Leo.
“I was planning to head over to the weightlifting stations;” said Angel, “You up for joining me, Rachael?”
“I’m there, sister” the canine says with a grin.
“Perfect, that just what we’ll do then. Leo, you can go off and have fun, if you want to” the older feline informs him.
“Really?” asked Leo.
“Of course!” said Angel, “You are a very mature and responsible young wolf; I think I can trust you to do some exploring on your own.”
“I totally agree with Angel, kid” the hyena tells him.
“Thanks! Where and when should we meet up for a check?”
“I’d say in two hours from now.” said Angel, “We can meet up at this sand ramp.” she gestured to the ramp that lead from the boardwalk into the sand, “Just remember… If you need help with anything…”
“Go to a lifeguard or a beach official.” said Leo.
“Spot on!” said Angel, “Well… have a great time, Son.”
“See you later, Leo” Rachael says.
“Thanks, Mum. Thanks Rachael” said Leo as he ran down to the sand, “and I will!”
Leo sprinted onto the warm sand and immediately felt it’s warmth on the pads of his feet as he ran towards the ocean. He soon reached the cooler wet sand, but had eyes only for the sparkling blue water. As he finally splashed into the ocean, he took a breath and dove right into the trough of a wave. After swimming deeper, Leo finally surfaced and inhaled a huge breath.
“Ahh!” he breathed with satisfaction; the Pacific Ocean was so nice and cooling after the heat of the day. Still full of pent-up energy, Leo began swimming down the beach. Swimming was one of his favorite sports, and he was considering joining the swimming team when he went to finishing school. Swimming in the ocean was a whole nother league since the waves provided all kinds of crests and troughs and currents to try and work with; and that was why Leo loved it so much. At that moment, Leo happened to dive under again and saw a green Frisbee just drifting about in the current underwater. He, of course, picked it up and brought it ashore. Angel had taught him that if he found something like a toy or otherwise, the right thing to do was to turn it into the authorities so it could be returned to its proper owner.
“Yo!” a voice called. Leo looked up to see a group of teenage male furs making their way over to him. There was a panther, a chameleon, and what looked like an anaconda. At the head of the group was a Dalmatian wearing a pair of trunks that were red on his left leg and blue on his right leg. Leo was slightly startled, but was relieved to see that they were smiling.
“Oh… Hello.” he said.
“All right!” said the chameleon, “You found my Frisbee!”
“Um Really?”
“Absolutely;” said the Dalmatian, “The thing landed in the ocean and we lost track of it.”
“Well,” said Leo, “Here you go then.” He handed the Frisbee over to the chameleon, who was very grateful to have it back.
“Thankssssss;” said the anaconda, “Now we can continue our game. Would you like to join usssssss?”
“Really?” asked Leo.
“Absolutely;” said the Dalmatian, “You are more than welcome to play with us; if you want to.”
“I guess so;” said Leo, “I’ve got to burn off some of this energy somehow.”
“Okay then!” said the Dalmatian, “By the way, I’m Captain Liam Bullworth of the FCPD.”
“Really?” asked Leo. He was both amazed and stunned; this Dalmatian couldn’t possibly be older than seventeen; and not only was he already part of the police department, he was a captain!
“Yes Really!” said the panther, “Let me introduce you to the youngest officer in law enforcement history. He joined the force when he was only ten years old!”
“Wow!” said Leo, “That’s amazing!” He straightened himself out and said, “I’m Leo, by the way.”
“Nice to meet you, Leo;” said Liam, “Welcome to Firewall City! Now… who’s team do you want to be on?”
“Three againsssssst two?” asked the anaconda, “Now that issssssn’t very fair, issssss it?”
“C’mon Joe;” said the chameleon, “If you’re really as good as you say you are, you can beat us even with him on our team.”
“Yeah!” said the panther, “I’m sure we can take this kid.” Leo took that a challenge, so he decided to be on the team with Liam and the chameleon (who was named Henry).
“You guys ready?” asked Leo.
“So ready!” said Liam. Joe threw the Frisbee into play, and the five of them quickly got stuck into their game; jumping, diving, and tossing the Frisbee to each other. As for Leo, he was having the time of his life.
**********
“My my, this weather is hotter than Kenya” the lioness comments as she wipes her brow.
“Trust me. The heats much worse in Egypt” her spotted companion replies as they entered the workout area to see many muscular mammals, reptiles, even avians lifting various weights at various stations.
“This certainly is an elaborate setup;” Angel thinks to herself.
“Hey! Check out this weight rack. It looks perfect. It contains single weights, as heavy 60kg” the hyena says, wagging her bushy tail in excitement as she points to a weight rack serval meters away from them.
“You have good eyes Rachael. I feel like a warmup with those 20kg weights. Then I can move on to heavier stuff.”
They two approach the rack and Angel goes to pick up the 20kg weights. Suddenly without a warning, a muscular Komodo dragon, clad in black shorts, pushes past them and sizes the pair of 20kg weights in his claws.
“Hey, what you are playing at?” Angel growls. “We were here first.”
“So what, if you were” the Komodo dragon replies rudely. “Your, in my personal work out area. Get lost.”
“Personal Work out area? Your having us on” the feline replies crossly as she folds her arms.
“Well, soon this section will be my own personal work out space. Don’t you know. I’m buying this place” the retile says smugly.
“Yeah, sure you are, millionaire” Rachael tells him in a sarcastic tone of voice. She doesn’t believe the reptiles claim for a second.
“Now look, I’m just trying to help you girls” the reptile says, trying to sound nice. “Those weights 20kg, are far too heavy for you two. You’ll probably end up dropping it on your toes. Or worse! Breaking a nail!”
The dragon then hands Angel and Rachael a single 2kg weight each.
“Warm with this” he says with a smirk.
“Right! No one insults my strength” the lioness growled “We can lift much heavier than you, you twat. Just you watch us.”
“Wait, hang on a second. Are you trying to challenge me?” the reptile grows.
“Yeah, I am!”
“And so am I” the hyena tells the dragon firmly.
“Alright follow me, then.” The dragon tells them, and he leads them to a nearby rack of barbells or what Angel and Rachael like to call long-weights.
“I challenge you kitty” the reptile says pointing a claw at Angel. “You and I lift two barbells, 60kg each, first to drop them loses and has to shove off.”
“60kg? Your joking me. I’d make it 80kg instead.”
“Alright, 80kg it is then, your majesty.”
“Hey, you sure about this Sister?” Rachael asks her, with slight concern in her voice.
“I’m sure Rachael. Help me get the weights ready and ref us will ya?”
So, the hyena helped Angel set up the long weights, so the feline could be facing her opponent. Angel rubbed her hands together and gritted her teeth as the dragon gave her a smug look.
“Alright!” Rachael announced, “Bend down and take hold of your weights!”
Both Angel and her opponent did so, giving each other one last dirty look.
“Ready…?” announces the hyena, “Set… LIFT!”
As she had done hundreds of times before, Angel used her legs to get the barbell moving up before she was able to use her arms to lift it the rest of the way over her head. Ross did the same, and soon the two of them were facing each other with 80kg over their heads.
“You won’t last a minute kitty” the reptile tells her.
Angel knew exactly what he was trying to do. He was just trying to distract her and put her off. So, she shut her eyes and concentrated solely on keeping the weight up.
Rachael kept as quite as a mouse, not wanting to make a noise that could throw her sister off her game. Though, she was very tempted to tell that rude dragon to keep his mouth shut.
Two minutes in, the reptile made another snide comment. “Give up, I can see those arms of yours shaking.”
Angel didn’t respond.
“Just ignore him. Pretend that he’s not there. It’s just you and that extra light weight you’re holding. Nothing else” the feline thinks to herself.
Through the strain of holding the weight, she managed a small smile. Angel continued her smile, keeping her eyes shut the whole time.
“Any second now, you’ll give in” the reptile grunted; clearly getting angrier, with his arms slightly shaking.
“Come on! Give up already! DAMN IT!!” he suddenly yelled out. *CLANG!* the sound of metal hitting concrete rang out which causes several near-by mammals, to glance over at them.
Angel opened her eyes to discover that her opponent had indeed dropped his weight and had his mouth open in horror. Angel slowly let the weight down and said,
“Now that was a good warm up!” She then walked up to reptile and said, “You best leave us.”
“Oh yeah…?” growled the reptile, “Well, uh… I wasn’t even trying. I was going easy on you because, I thought that your arms would give in, before mine. I demand a rematch.”
“Or perhaps you go up against me?” Rachael suggested. “I’d love to beat you and see that priceless expression of yours.”
“No thanks. You look as though you on steroids!”
“Come on Ross! You lost fair and square!” said a female voice. “I’d clear off, if I was you.”
As Ross wheeled around to see the source of the sound, Angel and Rachael caught sight of a tall female Basenji dog wearing a lime green bikini. She was a pretty tall canine, and she had shoulder length chocolate brown hair and emerald, green eyes. Her fur was a brown tan whilst her muzzle, chest fur, and paws where white.
She looked rather ticked off.
Ross the Komodo dragon, suddenly became quite afraid, “Oh hi Bobbie! I was joking around with these newcomers. I was just showing them the ropes hear.”
“No, you weren’t” Rachael growled. “You were being rude to, me and my sister and you were mocking our strength. Your now, all butt-hurt, that you lost this challenge.”
“Hey, no I wasn’t!”
“Just as I though;” growled Bobbie, “Picking on newcomers just so you can live out your marble age power fantasies.”
She suddenly got right up in the komodo’s face and said “Leave now or else I’ll kick your ass!”
“Okay, okay… I’m leaving!” Ross moaned; and he quickly made his exit.
Bobbie smirked and walked up to Angel and Rachael.
“I am so sorry you gals had to put up with that;” she said, “That idiot thinks that if covering your chest is mandatory, you aren’t fit to… be fit.”
“No trouble at all;” said Angel, “It sure was satisfying putting that twit in his place.”
“For what I saw of that contest, from a slight distance away, you done pretty good job. You kept your focus and your strength” Bobbie tells the feline.
“Thanks Bobbie” said Angel, “That Ross guy barely lasted two minutes.”
“Nor could he keep his mouth shut or his arms still!” the hyena cackled.
“Yeah…” said Bobbie, “He’s pretty strong, but doesn’t have much staying power."
“Oh, I can’t agree more. That was very good of you to stand up to that idiot” the feline says to the Bobbie.
“Oh, it’s cool;” Bobbie replied, “There is an unspoken rule among weightlifters, ‘The strongest of muscles mean nothing without a strong heart’.”
“That’s a good philosophy;” said Angel. “I’ll have to remember that.”
“Definity a phrase for the history books” Rachael commented.
"Why thanks. By the way, I like your swimsuit design; it’s very patriotic” the Basenji said to Angel referring to lioness’s swimsuit design.
“You’re both British, aren't you? I can tell by your accents."
"We are indeed;” said Angel. “Though I’m Kenyan by birth."
“I was born in England, but my folks are from Kenya” the hyena informs the Basenji.
"No kidding!” said Bobbie, “My parents are from Kenya too! They’re medical scientists looking for a cure to the Ebola virus. By the way, I haven’t properly introduced myself; my full name is Bobbie Goldhart; maiden name, Cook.”
“Angel Savannah;” said Angel as she shook Bobbie’s hand.
“Rachael Taylor” the hyena says as the Basenji shakes her hand. “That sounds very ambitious what your folks are trying to do.”
“Well fingers crossed that my parents get this Ebola cure made. Now, what brings you two hear to Firewall City?” asked Bobbie.
“Me and Rachael are here on holiday with my son Leo. Thought it might be a good idea to spend Christmas in the sun for a change.”
The feline then shrugged and said, “I’ve never actually been to the states before, so it’s a new experience for me.”
“I’ve only been to New York years ago. I’ve never been to Firewall city, before” the Hyena says.
“Well, you girls have certainly picked the right city to visit;” Bobbie said. “Besides Firewall is nothing like New York.”
“So, you girls up for a couple of rounds on those barbells? Perhaps we could have a competition of our own?” the Basenji asks them.
Rachael smiled and said "Sure thing Bobbie! You totally read my mind. Damn shame, I couldn’t compete against Ross. However, you look like a worthy opponent.”
“Your on then” Bobbie said with a grin.
*****
“Good or bad, like it or not, It’s the only one we’ve got!” Leo sang to himself as he strolled through the sand, “I won’t let the sun go down on me, I won’t set the sun go down!” The game of Frisbee had worn him out quite a bit, but he was still happy as a lark. He was, however, getting a bit parched; perhaps some ice cream would cool his throat. Good thing his trunks had secret zip up pocket were he had stored a five dollar note, in a plastic envelope to keep it from getting wet. “Excuse me!” he called to a passing armadillo, “Could you please tell me where there’s a treat shop around here?”
“Certainly, Young Man;” the armadillo answered, “Just go up on the boardwalk and find the hexagonal building with a sloping roof. They sell the best ice cream, snow cones, and churros this side of the Rio Grande.”
“Thanks!” said Leo as he strolled away, “Now let me see… hexagonal building with a sloping roof. Oh! There it…” He stopped suddenly. He turned his head seventy-five degrees to the right to see if he could find the thing he had spotted from the corner of his eye. About one hundred yards away, sitting against a beach chair, was what looked like a female Chocolate Labrador who looked about his age.
What made her stand out was that she was wearing a bright yellow one-piece bathing suit with a tiny skirt around her waist, which contrasted sharply with her deep brown fur, and what looked like pink heart-shaped sunglasses. For a minute, Leo didn’t do anything; he simply stood and stared.
“Wow…” Leo thought to himself, “She sure is pretty. Maybe… Maybe I could go talk to her. But what would I say…?” Leo’s mind went into overdrive, trying to find an excuse to talk to the Labrador girl. “Weather…? No, that’s cliché! Uh… Ice cream…? Yeah! I can ask her if she’s had some of the ice cream from the shack and see what she thinks of it!” His mind made up, Leo began tip-toing over to the Labrador girl.
As he approached her, he could feel his heartrate going up several beats. After two whole minutes, he was almost on top of her. Leo was about to open his mouth and say something, when the girl turned her head to face him. “Hear goes nothing!” Leo thought.
“Hi there!” The young Labrador girl said, “You looking for someone to play with?”
“Uh… kinda…” Leo managed to say, “It’s my first time to the beach, so… I’m still finding my way ‘round.”
“Well, it’s nice to meet you;” said the Labrador girl as she took off her sunglasses, revealing her bright green eyes, “My name is Chrissy Goldhart. What’s your name?”
“My name is Leo. Leo Savannah.”
Many months ago, Leo had legally changed his last from Lupine to his adoptive mother’s, last name of Savannah.
“Nice to meet you, Leo.” said Chrissy, “Say... are you from England? I don't hear a lot of people with that accent around here.”
“Yep;” said Leo, “I've lived there all my life; this is actually my first trip to the United States. It’s certainly a change with all the warm weather around here.” Leo mentally cursed himself for swinging to the cliché subject of weather, but Chrissy didn’t seem to mind.
“Yeah... it’s warm most of the time here;” she said, “Of course... I wouldn't mind seeing some snow sometime. We would always get a lot of snow where I used to live.”
“So… you and your family moved here?” asked Leo.
“Uh… yeah…” said Chrissy, “You could say that.”
“Well,” said Leo, “I was thinking of getting an ice cream from the shack up there. Would you recommend their ice cream?”
“You bet!” said Chrissy, “They sell the best ice cream on the beach. Say... if I pay you, do you think you could please get me a strawberry cone?” She looked unsure for a moment before saying, “I'd get it myself, but I... can't get up right now.”
“Sure thing;” said Leo. Chrissy reached into her beach bag and pulled out some money before handing it to Leo. With the money in hand, Leo said, “I’ll be right back!” and headed up towards the boardwalk. In a minute, he was there. After pondering the menu for a minute, it was his turn.
“What can I get for you, Kid?” asked the female flamingo behind the counter.
“I’d like a mint cone and also a strawberry cone for my erm… new friend , please.”
“Coming right up!” said the bird. “I hope you and your friend enjoy.”
Leo paid the vendor and took the cones in hand. He made good time getting back to Chrissy to ensure the ice cream would be as solid as possible.
“Here it is, Chrissy!” he said when he got there.
“Thanks, Leo;” said Chrissy, “That was really nice of you.” She took her strawberry cone and gave it a lick.
“Strawberry is my favorite flavor; next to vanilla.”
“Really…?” asked Leo, “Strawberry is my second favorite flavor.” He took a lick of his own ice cream and said, “Um… I hope you don’t find this weird, but… would you be okay if I stayed here for a bit? I’d like to learn some more about your city.”
“No problem!” said Chrissy, “I’d actually like to know what it's like over in England too; my moms were over there just a few days ago with my Aunt Sylvia, shooting a television show. Thank goodness they made it home in time for the holidays.”
Leo couldn’t help smiling to himself. “So…What's your hometown like?” the dog girl askes him.
“Well…” said Leo, “Watermane is one of the most peaceful places in England. There’s a bakery, a pub, a small train station, and some assorted shops. The best part would have to be the park only ten minutes away from my house.”
“Sounds like a nice place;” said Chrissy, “Almost reminds me of my old neighborhood before I moved to Firewall City. What’s the weather like in England?”
“Oh, it's tipping it down twenty-four-seven in the winter and spring.” said Leo, “We are lucky to get snow in the winter and it's really only hot in the summer.” After thinking for a moment, he asked, “Does it ever rain much in Firewall City?”
“Well, we do get rain,” said Chrissy, “But not a whole lot. Thankfully, we have a great water treatment plant in this city; they're currently working on a way to make saltwater safe for drinking.”
“That’s amazing!” said Leo, “I never thought something like that would be possible.”
“Well, if it works,” said Chrissy, “Not only will we get more drinking water; we’ll also get big blocks of salt to sell to companies that make water softener salts and ice melting salts! Of course, that’s what this city is built upon; industry and enterprise.” Chrissy then sighed. Leo was about to ask her what was wrong when she said, “You know, I'm glad I've got someone to talk to. Most of the boys at Turner Middle School just don't get me.”
“Wow…” said Leo, “I can understand that. Back at my school not many other kids apart from a few show any interest in me. Sometimes when I want to talk to someone and start a conversation, I feel like I have the words in my head, but I just can't get them out.”
“I'm sorry to hear that;” said Chrissy, “But, trust me… I know the feeling.”
“Well…” said Leo, “I guess it’s nice to finally have someone who understands what I go through.”
“Yeah…” said Chrissy, “It is.”
“Hi, Chrissy!” said a voice, “Sorry I took so long.” Leo looked up to see a female Cocker Spaniel wearing a bright baby blue one-piece bathing suit. What stood out about her was that she had scarlet red hair that turned blue as it ran down her back. “Oh…I see you've made a new friend.”
“Hi, Mom!” said Chrissy, “I sure did! This is my new friend, Leo.” The wolf cub was amazed; no girl his age had ever regarded him as a friend before.
“Oh… Hi, Miss” Leo says the adult canine.
“Why hello there, young man;” said the Spaniel, “Are you from Chrissy’s school?”
“No, I’m all the way from England. It’s my first time hear.”
“That sounds interesting. It’s not very often that I meet furs from England” said the Spaniel, “By the way, my name is Elizabeth. I highly appreciate you keeping my daughter company.”
“Um, thanks Miss Elizabeth” said Leo politely, “I’m just hear on holiday with my family. They are at the weightlifting station. I’m just catching some sun and exploring this beach.”
“Well, you’ve certainly at the right beach for sunbathing, Leo. We usually have great weather for it hear.” the spaniel informs him. “Also are your family into weight training? My partner happens to be into that.”
“Yeah, my mother and my aunt are pretty much body builders. They take their work out sessions very seriously. Heck, my aunt Rachael works as a personally trainer.”
“That’s nice to hear” Elizabeth says before she turns her attention back to her daughter.
“Say Chrissy, how about we go swimming?”
“Sounds good to me!” her daughter replies.
Then to the young wolfs amazement the Labrador says to him,
“Would you like to join us, Leo?”
“I’d love to” the wolf finds himself saying, unable to believe that this pretty Labrador girl wants to further associate with him.
“Good;” said Elizabeth, “Let me just get your lifejacket on, Chrissy; and we should be good to go.”
Leo didn’t say anything as he watched Elizabeth put a blue lifejacket on Chrissy. But for odd some reason, Elizabeth picked Chrissy up in her arms rather than helping her to her feet. Overrun with curiosity, Leo said,
“Uh… Chrissy…? Do you have trouble swimming? Y’know, I used to be not great at swimming. That was until my mum tough me how to. Perhaps, I could give you some advice?”
“Um, thanks. I highly apricate that.” Chrissy replied, “I know how to swim, but I can’t because… my legs don’t work.”
“Don’t work…?”
“I can’t even feel them anymore. So I can’t do anything with them. I can’t walk, I can’t run, I can’t swim, I can’t even jump for joy anymore.” Her voice tone suddenly become rather somber.
"Oh…” said Leo, “I'm sorry to hear that, but… It doesn’t matter to me!”
“It doesn’t…?” asked Chrissy.
“Not at all! I don’t think that it should matter at all” the young wolf replied.
“Thanks…” said Chrissy, “That really means a lot to me.”
“No problem;” said Leo.
“Well then…” said Elizabeth, “Maybe now we can go have some fun swimming.”
“Well, I’m all set” Leo says.
“Good, we’ll be right behind you, Leo” Chrissy tells him.
The wolf scampers down the beach and into the water. Elizabeth was right behind him with Chrissy in her arms. Once in the water, Chrissy brightened up a lot. She was whooping and laughing as the cool waves carried her and Elizabeth in their currents. To Leo, the sound of Chrissy’ voice was nothing less than sweet music.
**********
Back at the weightlifting stations, Angel, Rachael and Bobbie were taking a break after their strenuous workout.
"Woah…” said Bobbie, “You both did pretty well there. How did you mange that?"
"Well;” Angel explained, “When I'm weightlifting, I mentally tell myself that's it's not heavy and sometimes focus my mind on something else. Besides, I have Rachael to thank, for teaching me that technique. After all she works as personal trainer and she’s taught me very well.”
“Hey, what do you know. I happen to work as a personal trainer myself, Rachael” the dog says with a grin.
“Nice one girl” the hyena says with a grin, “It’s a job that I enjoy and make plenty of profit from. I also really find it satisfying helping others and watching them progress.”
The hyena took a swig of water before saying to Bobbie, “By the way, you've got an impressive structure, that many mammals would desire.”
“Why thank you;” said Bobbie, “I've been training since I was sixteen years old. I’ve also stuck to a good diet and mental regime. That’s why I’m so strong today.”
“That’s very impressive, Bobbie. I started working out when I was eighteen” said Rachael, “You certainly don’t fit the American stereotype these days!” Bobbie chuckled in response to the hyena’s comment.
“Say Bobbie, out of interest, is Firewall City really the safest city in America?" Angel asks Bobbie.
“It sure is;” said Bobbie, “We’ve got the best police force in the world, a strong fire department, and excellent medical services. With all that, I think I can safely confirm that Firewall City is the safest city in the world."
At that moment, a young Basenji pup, wearing a lime green pair of swimming trunks, ran up to them.
“Hi, Mom!” he said.
“Hey there, Ryan;” said Bobbie, “How have you been?”
“I'm good;” said Ryan, “The water is great, but Casey and Joey had to leave, so I thought I’d see how you are mom.”
“How did you know that I’d be here…?” asked Bobbie.
“Given how much time you spend here;” said Ryan. “Besides, I wouldn’t mind seeing you in action weightlifting.”
“That’s my boy!” said Bobbie as she tousled her son’s head fur.
“I take it this is your son;” said Angel.
“He sure is;” said Bobbie, “Ryan, these ladies hear, are Angel and Rachael. Their visiting from England.”
“England!?!” said Ryan, “Cool!” he turned to Angel and said, “Have you ever been to London? What’s it like there?” Angel laughed and said,
“I've been to London quite few times; and it's safe to say it is very atmospheric. Not to mention plenty of sights to see. The tower of London, Tower Bridge, Piccadilly Circus, The London Eye, and Buckingham Palace."
“Wow!” said Ryan, “I’ve always wanted to see those for real! I’ve been trying to convince Mom to take us there for a vacation some time.”
“Well…” said Bobbie, “We might just end up doing that next summer.”
“Hey kid, I have some photos London on my smart phone. I can show you them if you like?” the hyena says to Ryan.
“Woah, really. I’d like to see them miss.”
Whilst Rachael showed Ryan her photos of London, Bobbie turned to Angel and said, “So, Angel, ready to begin another session.”
“Sure, I…” Angel started, when she noticed the time on the clock.
“Oh! I just remembered” she groaned, “I forgot to meet up with Leo. It’s been over two hours now.”
The feline then said to Bobbie
“I’m really sorry about this but I’ve got to go and meet my son now. Rachael you can stay here if you want to?”
“Nope, I’d rather meet Leo with you Sister. I feel like I’m done weightlifting for today” the hyena replies.
“I’ll come with you, Angel. I still have plenty of things, to discuss with you and Rachael,” said Bobbie.
“Aw thanks!” the feline says before grabbed her bag, and walked quickly out of the weightlifting station, followed by Rachael, Bobbie and Ryan.
*****
Back in the waves, Leo had also lost track of time because he was having such a wonderful time playing with Chrissy. At one point, Elizabeth let her float about in the waves. Leo was impressed how Chrissy could still move about without the use of her legs.
“Wow, Chrissy…” he said, “You’re still a good swimmer.”
“Thanks!” said Chrissy, “Being in the water is one of my favorite things.” At that moment, there was a slightly bigger wave than the one before it. “Whoa!” cried Chrissy.
“The surf’s picking up;” said Elizabeth, “We better head for shore.”
“Good idea!” said Leo. He turned himself and said, “Grab my ankles, Chrissy; I’ll pull you in.”
“Okay then!” said Chrissy. She took hold of Leo’s ankles and held on tight as the young wolf started swimming. Remembering Angel’s training, Leo kept his head down as he paddled; only lifting it when he needed to breathe. Elizabeth was speechless;
Leo and Chrissy were already almost to shore. In no time, Leo hit the beach and used his arms to haul himself into the sand away from the water; dragging Chrissy behind him in what could only be described as a comical and undignified manner.
“Oh…” he said, “Sorry about that, Chrissy, I guess I got carried away.”
“Don’t worry;” said Chrissy, “I’m fine. Maybe if you turned me over it would be easier.”
“Uh… okay…” said Leo. He got up and approached Chrissy, almost afraid to actually touch her. Thinking quickly, he took hold of her shoulders and gently turned her over. With Chrissy on her back, it was much easier to pull her along without worrying about getting sand in her face. In a matter of seconds, they were back at the beach towel.
“Wow…” said Chrissy, “You're so strong. Are you an athlete?”
“Kinda…” said Leo, “My mum is very athletic; she hopes of joining the Olympics someday. I kinda… follow in her paw prints.”
“Cool;” said Chrissy, “My Aunt Bobbie is a personal trainer, so she'd be impressed.”
“She certainly would be!” said Elizabeth as she joined them by the towel, “That was an impressive display of strength and skill, Leo.” Leo practically glowed with pride.
"Why, thank you...” he said, “Not a lot of people really see me as strong.”
“Well, I certainly do;” said Chrissy, “I wish I could be as strong as that.”
“Hey, sorry about this Chrissy” Elizabeth tells her “But I’ve got to use the bathroom. I’ll be back as quickly as I can.”
“Okay, Mom;” said Chrissy, “We’ll be here.”
“Take care now!” said Elizabeth as she walked quickly off. At that moment, Chrissy turned her head in such a way that she caught sight of something she hadn’t before.
“Oh my!” she said, “You’ve got a scar on your arm!” Leo froze up for a moment, then looked over at it and said,
“Oh that…” he said, “Yeah…” I got it in an… accident months ago. I’d rather not talk about it.”
“Okay;” said Chrissy, “I’m sorry I brought it up.”
“It’s okay;” said Leo, maintaining a kind face.
“So then…” said Chrissy, “What family members are with you on holiday?”
“It’s just mum, my aunt Rachael and myself of course. Well, alright Rachael isn’t really my aunt, but she’s just like one to me.”
“Your dad couldn’t make it, huh?” asked Chrissy.
“Well… no;” said Leo, “The truth is, I don’t really have a dad anymore. He… He… He walked out on me.”
That wasn’t entirely true. Something much worse had happened to Leo’s biological father, but he couldn’t bring himself to explain what had happened. To was far too disturbing.
“Ouch…” said Chrissy, “That’s horrible. Man, it really stinks when your parents basically abandon you.”
She suddenly became more somber and said, “Trust me… I know…”
Leo suddenly became very intrigued at this revelation, but decided not to ask about it for fear of upsetting Chrissy. Then, Chrissy looked back at him with a look that Leo couldn’t quite place.
“Hey…” said Leo, “Are you feeling okay?”
“Oh yeah, I’m alright…” said Chrissy, “It’s just that I… I’ve never really met anyone like you, Leo. You're strong, friendly, courteous, and... um... handsome...” Leo didn’t know what to say; he could only blush.
"Why… T-thank you…” he said, “You know, you have to be one of the nicest girls I’ve ever met in my life. Also, you’re uh… really pretty…”
“Really…?” asked Chrissy, “You really think so? That’s the nicest thing any boy’s ever said to me. So… thanks.”
“You’re welcome;” said Leo. Suddenly, he remembered…
“Oh shoot!” he groaned, “I forgot to meet up with Mum and my aunt.”
“I’m really sorry Chrissy, but I’ve got to go, otherwise they’ll both get worried.”
However, deep down, Leo doesn’t want to abruptly leave his new friend.
“Do you know where they’ll be?” Chrissy asked him.
Leo thought about it, then said, “They should be nearby the boardwalk, just where the sand ramp is. That’s where they said they’d be.”
“Are you sure they’ll be there?” the Labrador girl asks him.
“That’s a good point.”
“Here’s an idea Leo. Do you know your mom’s mobile number?”
“Yes, I do.”
“I have a mobile phone in my bag, I’ll let you borrow it, so you can call her. Then that way, you’d know if she’s at the sand ramp or not.”
“Chrissy you’re a genius!”
The young Labrador hands Leo the mobile phone and he proceeds to dial Angel’s number.
**************
Meanwhile, Angel, Rachael, Bobbie, and Ryan had just reached the ramp that led to the sand, but Leo was nowhere in sight.
“I don’t see Leo here…” Angel said with a hint of worry in her tone. “I sure hope nothing bad has happened to him.”
“I’m sure Leo will be fine, Angel” Bobbie told the feline reassuringly. “I bet you, that Leo’s on his way hear, right now.”
Suddenly, Angel heard her phone buzz in her bag.
“Hmm, an unknown number. I wonder who this might be?” Angel says as she looks at her phone screen.
“I bet it’s Leo?” Ryan suggests.
“Well, lets hope it is kid” the lioness replies as she answers the phone.
Angel: Hello? Who might this be?
Leo: It’s me mum.
Angel: Leo! Oh, thank goodness it’s you.
The feline breaths a sigh of relief.
Leo: I’m really sorry, if I had you worried, mum. I kinda of lost track of time. I’ve made a new friend…
Angel: Hey, it’s alright kid. Me and Rachael lost track of time as well. Also, it’s great to hear, that you’ve made a new friend. Would you happen to you be with them?
Leo: I am indeed. She’s letting me borrow her phone, so I can call you. Her name is Chrissy.
Angel: Chrissy? Now that’s a nice name.
“Chrissy? Hang on a minute, my daughter’s name happens to be Chrissy” Bobbie said. “Angel, ask your kid, if the girl’s surname is Goldhart.”
Angel nodded and proceeded on with her phone conversation.
Angel: Say Leo, would Chrissy’s last name happen to be Goldhart?
Leo: Um sure. How do you know that?
Angel: *chuckles* well I happen to be with some family members of hers.
The lioness then nodded at Bobbie and said quietly away from the phone “Yup, he’s with your daughter alright.”
Leo: Wow, fancy that. So, should I still meet you at the sand ramp near the boardwalk?
Angel: You could. However, perhaps if you want, me and Rachael could meet you? Is there a certain that location your near?
Leo: That would be great. I can’t quite describe where I exactly am on the beach.
Angel: There’s rush no hun. Perhaps you could google map us your location?
“Hey, Miss Angel, I have an idea” Ryan suddenly piped. “I know the usual beach spot that me, Chrissy and my family always chill at. There’s a good chance Leo and Chrissy will be there. I can guide you straight there, if you like?”
“Son, that’s sounds like a great idea” Bobbie said with a smile.
Angel: Hey, Leo. Good news. I think we know where to find you. Just say with Chrissy. We won’t be long.
Leo: Oh, you do? Sure, I won’t be going anywhere. See you soon mum.
Angel: I’ll see you soon as well honey.
The lioness ended the call and placed the phone back in her bag.
“Ryan, you’re a life saver” the lioness said with a grin.
“Thanks, miss” the pup replied politely. “I best guide you there.”
So, Angel followed Ryan, flanked by Bobbie and Rachael. In a short amount of time, they reached the towel where Leo and Chrissy awaited them. Elizbeth who had just returned from her bathroom break, greeted them.
“Oh, hi, Bobbie” the Cocker Spaniel said to her partner. Before she then noticed the lioness and the hyena. “Are these ladies, new friends of yours?”
“They sure are. I met them, at the work out station” Bobbie explained, “Angel and Rachael hear, are Leo’s family.”
“Wow, fancy that. I guess it’s a small world, we live in. I was talking to Leo earlier and he wasn’t over exaggerating when he told me, that you two are body builders” Elizabeth says to the lioness and the hyena.
Whilst Elizabeth introduced herself to Angel and Rachael, Ryan approached Leo and Chrissy.
“Hi, Leo!” said Ryan as he stepped forward and extended his hand, “I’m Ryan, Chrissy’s brother.”
“Nice to meet you, Ryan” Leo says as he shakes Ryan’s paw.
“Also, thanks keeping my sister company” the benshi pup, says to Leo.
“Oh, it’s nothing” Leo replies causally. “Just looking for some new furs to talk to. Perhaps, I could learn more about this city, from them.”
“I get ya, Leo” Ryan says. “Besides if you’re from England, I wouldn’t mind finding out more your country. From what, I’ve heard England is a very interesting country.”
“Well then…” Angel said as she other adult females approach the three kids. “It appears that we’ve all made some new friends today!”
“We sure have;” said Racheal, “And what a day it’s been so far.”
“I’ll say;” Bobbie said with a grin.
“Angel and Racheal here can lift like you wouldn’t believe. Angel even beat out that bum, Ross, in a powerlift-off” The adult benshi tells her family.
“Far out!” said Chrissy, “About time that guy got what was coming to him.”
“I can’t agree more.” Angel said. Then, she bent down so to shake the young Labrador’s hand.
“It’s good to meet you in person Chrissy. My name is Angel. I’m Leo’s mother.”
“Nice to meet you, Miss Angel. And you must be Racheal, right?” the young Labrador says as her gaze falls upon the muscular hyena who stands near by the lioness.
“The one and only” the hyena grins before, she sakes the young canine’s paw. “Thanks for keeping Leo company for us.”
“That’s alright” said Chrissy, “I’ve had a great time playing with Leo; he’s so strong and friendly.”
“And Chrissy’s really nice too;” said Leo, “We’ve had some great fun today.”
“That sounds great, son,” Angel says with a smile.
“Say Angel” Bobbie says, “Is there any chance that you, Racheal, and Leo might like to meet up with us tomorrow?”
“Sure!” said Angel, “We’re still new in town, so it might help to have someone who knows the ins and outs of Firewall City.”
“Count me in” the hyena replies.
“Well, we’d be honored to take you on a small tour tomorrow;” said Elizabeth, “Wouldn’t we, Bobbie?”
“Certainly!” said Bobbie.
“Alright!” said Ryan, “Leo, there’s a comic store near the city center that you have to see!”
“Comics…?” asked Leo, “That sounds good to me.”
“Would there be any good spots shops in town?” the hyena asks.
“Don’t worry Rachael, I know of a good spots shop in town” Bobbie informs her.
“And wait till you see Margarita’s Coffee Shop;” said Elizabeth, “Best place for a pick-me-up in the western seaboard.”
“It all sounds so exciting;” said Angel, “But for now, we should probably get going; I think Leo might want to see the boardwalk park before we go back to the hotel.”
“Okay, Mum;” said Leo.
So arrangements were made for both parties to meet up the next day. Before they went their separate ways, Leo looked at Chrissy and said, “I look forward to seeing you tomorrow, Chrissy.”
“Me too, Leo;” she said in return, “See you tomorrow!”
**********
Hours later, after a lovely excursion in the boardwalk park, Leo, Angel and Rachael were back at the hotel. It had been a great afternoon, but Leo simply could not get Chrissy out of his mind. He had tried taking a relaxing lavender bath in the hot tub, and a self-meditation session to clear his head, but he just couldn't get the image of the beautiful Labrador out of his head. The memory of the relatable conversation he'd had with her as well as helping her swim were all fresh in his mind as though they'd happened minutes ago. Finally, in defeat, Leo collapsed on his bed and stared up at the ceiling. So far in his life, Leo had never gotten this far with a girl his age. Granted, he did have a liger cousin, who was a relative of Angel’s, but she was much younger than him and he considered her part of his family. No girls in his school seemed interested in him; not even just to be his friend.
Whenever he tried starting causal conversations with them, he'd easily become lost for words, usually due to nervousness. One time he'd tried to talk to a pretty German Shepherd girl in the canteen, but despite his best efforts, she mostly ignored him and finally told him (in a rather rude manner) that she couldn't be seen with him. For the first time in his life, Leo felt love and attraction for someone that felt genuine. As they would likely be seeing each other tomorrow, Leo wondered how Chrissy would react if he mentioned that he had feelings for her. He feared that she would be creeped out and not want to associate with him anymore; unless maybe, she would understand his feelings and might even have similar feelings towards him.
“C’mon, Leo!” he mentally screamed at himself, “You’re thinking crazy! You’ve only just met her and even if she did like you, keeping a relationship solid when you’re on opposite sides of the world is just too hard!”
“I know!” Leo said out loud, “But… what if she does like me…? Staying in contact with her wouldn’t be impossible; just difficult.” But then again, unless Chrissy fancied him as well and wanted to stay in contact with him, Leo doubted a long distant relationship would work. So, for the next ten minutes, Leo lay back on his bed staring up at the ceiling, whilst his mind swam with nonstop information. He didn't even notice Angel enter the room.
“You alright, Sweetheart?” she asked.
Leo jumped a bit before saying, “Uh… I’m fine; Just… tired.”
“Well, you look a bit tense;” said Angel, a bit concerned, “Is there anything bothering you at all?” Knowing he couldn’t hide it for long, Leo sighed and said,
“Okay… If I was tell you, would you…?”
“Honey; whatever you tell me stays between us and only us.” said Angel, “You have my word.” Leo took a deep breath and said,
“Mum, I… I… I really like Chrissy.”
“Really…?” asked Angel, interested.
“Yeah…” said Leo, “I know it sounds crazy as I just met her, but for what I know of her so far, I really feel I like her. From the sound of things, the two of us actually have a lot in common. She said something about being abandoned by her parents, and I feel like it’s something that I can identify with.”
He sighed and said, “It’s a damn shame, that we live so far apart… I… I know I must be sounding crazy at this point…”
“Not at all, Leo darling;” said Angel, “Those feelings are perfectly normal; epically for a boy your age.” She smiled and said, “Besides, I’m very happy that you have someone new you can relate to. Yes, it’s annoying that she lives a long distance away but, unfortunately, life is never simple.”
“Right…” said Leo, “So, what do you think should I do, Mum? I really feel like Chrissy is special since no girl has ever been interested in me before. Not even as a friend. Should I tell her that I like her and have feelings for her?”
“Well, all I can say, Leo;” said Angel, “Is be yourself; because you are a nice, helpful kid and yourself is all you can be. As for telling her that you like her; that is your decision alone. Tomorrow I’d get to know her more and then just find the right moment.”
“Ok;” said Leo, “I just hope she doesn’t get put off by me; or worse, creeped out, if I was to tell her.”
“Well she sounds like a nice girl and her family was very nice as well;” said Angel, “I could be wrong, but I think she’ll understand and won’t be creeped out.”
She thought for a moment and said, “Did you get her number or her email address? That way you could both keep in touch much easier.”
“Ha! I didn’t think of that! But I will when we meet again tomorrow.”
“But remember, Leo;” said Angel, suddenly becoming rather serious, “You’re still very young; and you have your whole life ahead of you. I know that Chrissy feels like the only girl in world to you right now, but… IF it somehow… doesn’t work out, I’m sure you’ll meet loads of girls later on in life.”
“Okay, Mum. I understand.”
“Good,” Angel said with a smile, “Of course, there’s no harm in trying.”
“Say, Mum…” Leo said, “Did you… well… did you ever meet someone you fell in love with?”
“As a matter of fact, I did;” said Angel, “There were a lot of boys whom I thought were rather cute when I was in starter school. But I didn’t get a real boyfriend until I was twenty; and by that time, I was at University…” She chuckled and said, “Of course, that didn’t quite work out. But in all honesty, there’s nothing really wrong with being single, and I’m quite happy with it. And I’m not alone since I have you.”
“Thanks, Mum,” said Leo as he got up from the bed and gave her a hug, “I feel a million times better now.”
“I’m glad to hear that, Sweetheart;” Angel said, before two mammals where startled by a knock at the door.
“Is everything ok in there?” Rachael asked them through the closed door.
“Everything’s good Rachael, come on in” the feline calls.
Rachael enters the room and Leo suddenly feels it in his blood, to tell the hyena about his feelings towards Chrissy. Afterall next to Angel, Leo trusts Rachael the most, out of all his adopted family members.
“Say, Aunt Rachael. I have something on my mind that I’d like to tell you about.”
“What would it be honey?”
“Well ok. I bet, I sound crazy, but what if I told you that I that have a crush on that Chrissy girl from earlier.”
“Woah really?” the hyena says. A warm smile appears on her muzzle.
“That doesn’t sound crazy at all, kid. It’s perfectly normal for a wolf your age and to have feelings for another canine.”
Rachael then surprises Leo saying to him;
“Are you planning on telling Chrissy, how you feel about her?”
The young wolf nods in response.
“Well, I wish you the very best of luck kid” the hyena tells him. “You know, your very brave for being able to discuss this matter with us and deciding to tell Chrissy, yourself. Some furs can’t even face thought of doing that.”
“Thanks aunt Rachael” Leo says as he gives her a quick hug. “I’ve discussed this earlier with mum, however I really hope that Chrissy and her family aren’t put off by me, if I was to tell her.”
“Leo, I’m sure Chrissy or her family won’t be put off by you. They seem like nice canines to me. Besides there’s is nothing wrong with telling someone, how you feel about them” Rachael explains.
“As long as your able to respect Chrissy’s feelings and you can be ready for disappointment, then it should be completely fine” The hyena tells Leo reassuringly.
“Thank for that, Aunt. I’m really glad that I have you and mum in my life. Because otherwise, I don’t know where I’d be.”
“Well, I’m glad to hear that, Sweetheart;” said Angel, “Now I’ve also been thinking about what we should do tonight.”
“ We could head out to the city plaza cinema?” Leo suggests, “We could see Wolf’s Blade or Cyber Runner?”
“I’ve seen Cyber Runner and it’s really great film” Rachael says. “I honestly wouldn’t mind seeing it for a second time.”
“Alright then!” said Angel, “I’ve been wanting to see Cyber Runner for a while now. But we best get a move on; the plaza is roughly a twenty minute walk away from the hotel.”
“Can we get dinner afterwards?” asked Leo.
“We won’t need to!” laughed Angel, “I’ve been told that the plaza cinema has dinner theater; we can eat our dinner while we watch!”
“Cool!” said Leo. So the three of them got dressed and headed out to the city plaza, looking forward to a night on the town. Even so, Leo kept that happy memory of Chrissy fresh in his mind.
“I’ll tell her tomorrow…” he told himself, “I’ll be myself and tell her exactly how I feel. The worst that can happen is that she doesn’t feel exactly the same. There’s no reason at all why we can’t still be friends.” With this in his mind, he settled in for a fun evening out.
