After the Words: Terror in Bright Harbor
Prologue
The Borowski Family are leaving Possum Sorings not entirely of their own accord, due mainly to financial reasons they are losing the house to the bank.
Strange happenings have occurred recently around Mae who at first assumed she might've just been seeing specters, she also had been feeling as if someone or something had been stalking her up until just recently when a series of tragic events fired off one after another like a flurry of firecrackers leaving her body battered and bruised and her mind in a temporary state of amnesia and unrest.
Gregg and his boyfriend Angus found themselves living out their dream to relocate out of that old fading town to the big city, they were still settling in just beginning to get acclimated to their new way of life yet despite wanting to put the past behind him Gregg has been having dreams and visions of his friends he left behind some nostalgic and pleasant while others seemed like unsettling prophecies premonitions to disaster.
After a foiled attempt at suicide Bea found herself feeling utterly alone the recent death of her father sent her spiraling over the edge, Mae managed to pull her back from the sheer brink of depression. The added loss of her placing of living made staying in Possum Springs nearly impossible for the still grieving crocodile who struggles to move on wanting now to help her dear friend whom she too feels she has lost thanks to her absent memories.
The town of Possum Springs seems to March on returning to a normal more routine way of life after the events that led up to the arrest of several members in the satanic murder cult, though something supernatural seems to have affected the survivors from the incident whether that be trauma or something else entirely, only time will really tell.
Chapter One: Trauma
Mae's eyes fired open she instantly shot upward sitting in bed she clutched her blanket her claws digging into the fabric while the young cat panted for a moment still recoiling from a dream she couldn't remember. Sweat was visibly pouring down the felines face as it was illuminated by the rising sun peaking over the mountains and tree tops in the distance visible through the opened window. Mae's head ached she pressed a paw into her forehead as a ringing filled her ears within an instant she threw the blankets off of herself and rotated slinging her legs over the side of the bed. Mae's body was covered in still healing cuts as well as fading bruises she still felt pain on the daily just moving around was painful and she didn't even remember why or how she got this way.
Mae finally catching her breath sat on the edge of her bed she slowly glanced around her room looking at old toys and comics littering the floor as well the occasional discarded candy wrapper or empty chip bag a blank expression was evident on the felines' face she seemed to feel nothing for this place it was unfamiliar to her. Suddenly a bright white light shined onto Mae's face from the right causing her to jump slightly as it had startled her she turned her head seeing her laptop computer had turned on by itself on screen was a flashing bubble appearing next to the picture of a goofy looking fox with cups on his ears.
Mae pulled the laptop close sitting it on her lap the coolness of the metal casing sent a chill down her legs as the young cat with a confused look on her face clumsily tried to operate the somewhat foreign contraption. Ever since the accident Mae hadn't quite been herself surely this would be an apt description for her. She had lost all memory of who she was and of her life not even remembering of those around her it was a sad realization to wake up to concerned faces excited for your arrival only to find that the person they were waiting for to wake up was gone entirely. Mae sluggishly navigated to the flashing bubble on screen after finally got the jiff on how to move the cursor, the weird crocodile had been showing her how to use this strange machine apparently Mae had used to practically live on this computer yet she recalled nothing.
A slight gust of a cool breeze blew into Mae's room crashing into the felines' exposed back causing her to shiver as the fur on her back stood on end she reached for the blanket that she'd cast away quickly wrapping it around her bare body. The room seemed to creak as the wind shook the old house while Mae's tail seemed to wiggle on its own unbeknownst to Mae as it flicked back and forth wanting to be free of the covers restrictions finally it had made its way through. Mae stared at the picture of the fox as she pressed on his icon she gently kicked her legs to and fro seemingly unaware of it in fact as she read the message on screen. The chat conversation was visible on screen there was a lot of messages from the strange fox with cups on his ears they read like lies stories from the past of a friend to him who did not exist. A new message suddenly appeared flashing before the felines' eyes she read it carefully somewhat enjoying the tales of this fox's machinations though this message seemed different from the rest.
"Mae... I know these stories probably don't ring any bells for you but don't you worry your fuzzy little head today is the day, finally... I'm so excited and I can't wait to see you and Bea it feels like it's been an eternity when it's actually only been like six months since I've last seen you guys. I'm gonna help you get your memories back I swear it and that's a promise coming from the coolest fox around and your friend, Gregg... oh yea and Angus says hi and hopes you feel better soon, lol almost forgot to mention that... Well I'll see you when I see you!"
Mae giggled a little as a small smile arose on her face she wasn't sure why she was laughing but she knew she liked this fox just based on his picture alone. Mae without even replying slowly closed the laptop shut she hadn't done so once not knowing what to say to him as the laptop screen faded it's light once illuminating the felines' face ceased leaving it shrouded in darkness with only bits of sunlight shining around her cheeks. Mae sighed a heavy sigh before pushing herself up out of bed and onto her feet her paws hit the floor it was cool and yet felt dirty and grimy to the touch. The sound of a creaking screeching filled the room causing Mae to unexpectedly jump once more she quickly turned to see her door opening with a figure stepping through. In walked a crocodile holding a tray of delightful looking foods fit for a 1st grader the croc merely stared at the feline who looked like a deer caught in headlights. The croc she chuckled at seeing Mae's ruffled bed head with a line of dried drool still visible going down the felines' neck from her mouth her whiskers seemed to bounced up and down unconsciously as the cat sniffed the offering of food.
"Well I see someone slept well today, what was that a good six seven hours at least." Bea spoke as she motioned to her left sitting the tray of still steaming breakfast down on the dresser. Mae remained silent she had become a bit withdrawn barely ever speaking or even replying to anyone when they spoke to her, she wasn't trying to be rude she just never knew what she was supposed to say in return. Bea cautiously stepped over in front of Mae who remained in a guarded state she held the blanket tightly around herself like a shield. Bea stopped in front of Mae whom merely stared back at the croc who had her hands on her hips looking like she was going to scold the feline. Bea took notice to Mae's clothes piled up next to her bed seeing her underwear on top. "D...did you sleep in the nude, again?" Bea questioned sounding somewhat mad but more concerned than anything. "Mae I told you, your parents even told you not to do that, it's drafty in this attic you're going to catch a cold at night if you keep this up... did you sleep with the window open too, how have you not got pneumonia and died?" The crocodile questioned while pressing a hand into her eyes rubbing them roughy, bags were visible underneath her eyes it's clear she hadn't been sleeping well lately and who could blame the crocodile. "Your mom is gonna tan your hide!" Bea finished with a deep exhausted sigh.
Mae's eyes widened for a moment before she opened her mouth slightly trying to gather the words to speak. "Pl...please d...don't tell her..." Mae spoke her voice low and very timid, talking wasn't something she had done a lot of since the accident which definitely wasn't like the old Mae who could jabber on. Bea seemed a bit shocked that Mae even replied to her this morning she hadn't heard her speak in days she wondered if she could get any more out of the feline she honestly just wanted to hear her voice. "Alright, I won't tell her... if... if you tell me why, why do you sleep naked even though all three of us tell you not to, d...do you just not understand... or..." - "I... I f...feel... sl...sleeping l...like this... I... I ca...can sleep g...gooder!" Mae stammered her voice trailing off very lowly towards the end she was struggling just to get out what was on her mind though despite that she smiled softly. Bea stood awestruck that's the most she had heard her speak since the accident though her vocabulary was a little all over the place and I'm pretty sure gooder isn't a proper adjective. Bea took notice to the smile on the feline the tired croc smiled back at seeing it, it's a sight she hadn't seen in a while to her it felt like an eternity.
Bea sighed heavily once more before slowly walking closer toward Mae who took a single step backwards an involuntary reaction one based solely on animalistic fear and yet deep down she could tell the crocodile meant her no harm especially considering what followed next. Mae's eyes broadened her pupils trembling as the crocodile had suddenly smooched the cat on the forehead. Bea pulled her lips back and took a moment to see Mae's reaction it was a satisfying one as the felines' cheeks briefly lit up with a nice pasty tomato red hue. Mae sheepishly raised a paw out from within her blanket up toward her forehead she felt the spot that the crocodile had marked as her own. Mae's blanket had fallen around her back as she wasn't holding it in place anymore, suddenly Bea's face lit up bright red taking in the view. Mae quickly took notice wondering what was wrong she had never seen the crocodile's face look like that before. "Are... you o...okay?" Mae questioned while stepping even closer toward the crocodile who suddenly stepped backwards her foot stumbling on a plushie causing her to fall forcefully onto the floor creating quite the ruckus and a loud thud.
Meanwhile downstairs Candy and Stan had finished packing up the last of the boxes today was the day after all. The scene appeared completely different from what you might remember, the walls were emptied of photographs the living room was pretty much empty what with just a few boxes on the floor near the front door. Outside a U-Haul truck was waiting nearly plum full with all of the Borowski's belongings. "Hard to believe we are really leaving this place..." Stan spoke solemnly after having lived here for nearly half his life it's no wonder he'd feel saddened by the big move. "I know deerie, but I think it's for the best there's nothing here for us anymore... Besides Mae always wanted to move to the big city to follow her friends... it will be an exciting fresh start In a whole new place!" Candy reassured somewhat in disbelief as she placed a loving paw on her husbands' shoulder he returned a smile in her direction. "I hope Mae's memories will come back soon, I miss that plucky daredevil she's gonna be so shocked when they come back and she's in a completely different place!" Stan spoke feeling hopeful yet anxious he hated seeing his daughter in such a state but he'd never stop loving her no matter what. "The doctors said she could get them back any time now and that her memory loss was most likely not permanent, so we just have to be patient she'll come back to us when she's good and ready, and not a minute sooner!" Candy replied trying to stay strong it's been hard on her it's like she had lost her daughter the one that replaced her was a stranger though despite that Candy loved her all the same even though Mae didn't reciprocate those feelings, I think that's what hurt Candy the most.
Stan held his back as he stepped toward the kitchen it'd been acting up lately rendering it difficult for him to walk around he had to wear a back brace just for support. "Did we finish packing the silverware and dishes?" Stan questioned as he reached for a cabinet handle opening it up slowly as the hinges suddenly snapped off the door falling toward the floor. Stan held the cabinet handle in his paw he looked a bit surprised he honestly couldn't believe that hadn't happened sooner. "Yes deer, I've already packed up the kitchen, I finished it last night with Bea she helped me out actually we were up till nearly 5AM packing. Poor thing I know she hasn't been sleeping well, who could blame her with what she's been through, if I was her I don't think I could sleep at all either..." Candy spoke feeling concerned for their newest family member well she was practically family at this point, Stan and Candy basically decided that day in the hospital when they found out about Bea's father that they would take her in to look after the young crocodile whom had no one left to watch over her.
"I know, Beatrice is a tough girl, she is like my Mae!" Stan spoke quite proudly as he tossed the broken handle into the sink leaving it for the bank's repairmen to clean up. Stan turned toward Candy he pulled her in close wrapping his arms around her he was so thankful for her she was his sturdy foundation. "I love you sweetie, as long as I have you and Mae then losing this place doesn't mean anything, my home is wherever you two are...!" Stan uttered happily while leaning in to kiss his wife on the lips lovingly. Candy blushed vividly hearing him speak like that made her reminisce to the olden days when they first moved in together in a crappy run down apartment complex. "I love yo-..." Candy spoke before being interrupted by a sudden loud crash that could be heard coming from upstairs in the attic bits of drywall and dust fell from the ceiling above as both Candy and Stan stared upward their hearts nearly jumped out of their chests in unison the two older cats ran feverishly towards the stairs.
Bea sat on the ground her eyes broadened she stared at Mae who stood in front of her looking like a pure godsend entirely in the nude from head to paw. Mae stood shamelessly not entirely aware as to what was going on a look of concern fell on the felines' face as she motioned closer toward the downed crocodile who at the same time tried to back away she blinked her eyes rapidly. "Damn why does she have to be so... so..." Bea whispered to herself underneath her breath as she tried not to stare or at the very least try to not look obvious in her attempts of ogling, it was clear Mae had taken the crocodile completely off guard. The feline got onto her her knees and crawled ever closer toward Bea who was beginning to sweat profusely while staring at the feline who's small supple breasts were being squished together this accompanied by the clueless expression on the young cats' face caused Bea to seriously question her beliefs.
Suddenly Stan and Candy both reached the top of the stairs, Candy's eyes widened to the sight while Stan merely stood trying to catch his breath he couldn't even he was holding his knees panting. Bea looked over head to the two standing in the doorway the crocodile looked as if she might faint at any moment. "Oh goodie... y...you're b...both here... pl...please help!" Bea begged weakly as Candy suddenly burst out into laughter before stepping further into the room. Stan finally caught his breath he glanced into the room seeing Bea on the floor looking like a fresh victim. Candy bent down picking up the blanket off the floor she draped it around her daughter who stood up to greet her. "Did... d...did I... d..do something?" Mae questioned her voice low she was looking a bit confused as Stan helped Bea up off the floor. "No... no you didn't do anything wrong sweetie, Bea is fine she's just tired!" Candy reassured as she gently ran circles around her daughters back offering her some much welcomed comfort. "Stan honey can you go grab a few more boxes we still need to pack up the rest of Mae's room!" Candy requested as she gently nudged Mae toward the bed sitting her down. "I'll help you with that!" Bea spoke as she quickly followed after Stan down the stairs she had to get the heck out of their or she might end of with a nose bleed.
Candy grabbed ahold of the tray of food on the dresser she stared down to the paper plate with pancakes and sausage links in the shape of a smily face. "Here baby you really need to eat something, today's gonna be a long one and we will probably be on the road for several hours!" Candy explained while sitting beside of Mae who was more focused at staring down toward her paws with her toes wiggling against the cool flooring. "Open up sweetie, here comes the airplane!" Candy joked while making unironic choo-choo noises just to confuse her daughter who glanced up staring blanky at her mom. Candy motherly glided the bite of pancake and sausage around in the air in front of Mae's mouth she finally received the signals sluggishly opening up allowing her access. Candy felt utterly giddy at the prospect of feeding her daughter like this as she giggled happily watching her daughter eat, it really took her back and yet made her feel old at the same time since her daughter wasn't exactly an adolescent anymore. Though that didn't stop her from doing what a mother does best which was caring for her children no matter what. Some syrup strung down from Mae's mouth getting her fur very sticky and her blanket dirty at the same time. "It's t...tasty!" Mae mumbled through stuffed cheeks as she took notice of the expression on her mother's face it caused her stomach to become a flutter like she was eating butterflies or something she didn't quite understand what she was feeling. Mae just stared at her mom who merely smiled at her while she glided another bite into the young cats mouth yet again more syrup ran down her furry chest.
Something suddenly felt off to Mae as she stared at the older feline beside of her, the room they were in seemed to darken unexpectedly as the appearance of Mae's mother seemingly shifted looking distorted unrecognizable to Mae. Everything seemed frozen lasting for a mere instant Mae simply stared at her mother unable to move as she took in the details of her appearance. Candy's face appeared to be bloody, scars and bruises covered it as well as her exposed body, her eye sockets appeared empty with trails of blood leaking down her cheeks. Mae slowly blinked her eyes shut, opening them once more to a new scene before her everything was brighter and had returned to normal yet they weren't the same. Mae had changed as she swiftly jolted backward away from her mother her heart pounded out of her chest she was utterly confused as to what she had just witnessed she probably couldn't explain it if she wanted to. Tears began forming in the ducts of the young felines' eyes as she turned her head away from the older cat whom simply wanted nothing more than to help her daughter.
Candy noticed her daughter had jumped back from her she didn't quite understand why though, she sat the fork holding a fresh bite down before moving the tray aside. "Mae... sweetie... are you okay?" Candy asked softly as she cautiously drew closer toward her daughter not wanting to spook the distressed feline. Mae remained silent though she snorted up a bit of snot revealing her true feelings. Candy placed a paw on her daughters shoulder as Mae slowly turned to face her tears visibly falling from the young cat's face sparkling in the shining sunlight. Mae's chin crinkled up tightly as snot ran down from her nostrils she sobbed lightly as her mother instantly pulled her close into a warm and loving hug. Mae opened her mouth trying desperately to speak but her voice simply wouldn't allow it she coughed trying to clear her throat.
"I... I don...don't think I... I am..." Mae stuttered in between light sniffles she breathed heavily finding it difficult to catch her breath all of a sudden though it could've been because her mother was squeezing the life out of her. "I... I d...don't... th...think that I want to... to r...re...remember..." Mae confessed stuttering heavily her voice low and trembling fear consuming her very being as she finally wrapped her arms around her mother hugging her back for the first time since the accident. "I'm... sc...scared..." Mae finished her voice barely audible and yet to Candy she could hear it like her daughter was screaming in her ears, she merely tightened her hug not sure what else she could do for her daughter and it was eating Candy up inside she felt utterly useless as she listened to Mae lightly crying in her arms. Meanwhile down the stairs just a few steps away Beatrice sat on a step holding a lit cigarette in hand a trail of smoke rising up into the air she listened from afar her hand shook as she raised the lit bud up for a hit. "It's gonna be okay baby!" Candy spoke with the confidence of a true mother. "I promise you, I'll make it okay!" She continued while breaking the hug even though she really didn't want to. Mae stared at her mother who simply smiled back at her as the young felines' vision grew blurry. Candy raised a paw gently wiping the tears from her baby's eyes as she then motioned to caress her soft cheek.
Mae felt a whole array of emotions at that moment they swirled around inside of her yet as her mother held her cheek in her paw she felt like everything would be alright her once racing heart slowed to a crawl as her breathing returned to a normal pace. Mae sheepishly raised a paw placing it overtop of her mother's still resting on her cheek she sniffled lightly before flashing a beautiful yet weak smile at her mother who nearly got taken off guard by the sheer act. Candy took a moment to just appreciate her daughter in front of her she thought for sure that she had lost her for good but she was right here. Candy chuckled softly realizing that Mae looked like a complete and utter mess like an actual 2 year old. "Mae... sweetie I know you probably don't want to hear it, b...but I think you need a bath!" Candy spoke causing Mae to suddenly recoil at the sound of that word, ever since the accident bathing has not been one of Mae's favorite things in fact it was probably her least favorite thing to do, right next to waking up of course. "Noooo..." Mae groaned lowly as Candy suddenly shot up out of bed while tugging on Mae's paw trying to pull her up as well. "Yes... Mae, don't make this difficult, I'll get your father and Bea again if you don't cooperate..." Candy replied with a chuckle recalling back to a few days prior when she tried to give Mae a bath, she had to get both Stan and Bea just to keep her in the tub the whole family ended up getting a bath that day. "Come on sweetie you want to look nice for when you meet your friends don't you, besides it will feel good I promise!" Candy reassured while tightening her grip on Mae's paw. Mae merely sighed submissively realizing there wasn't really much she could do about it this was going to happen one way or another. After a few more moments of feeble resistance Mae eventually complied getting up out of bed as Candy lead her down the stairs.
Elsewhere Stan downstairs in a closet shuffled around looking for boxes his butt stuck out into the hallway as he rooted back and forth with a flashlight peering into the dark crevices of the crawl space the vast expanses seemed to go on for infinity. "I could've sworn we had some more boxes in here..." he grumbled furiously before coughing amongst the dust he'd kicked up. "Having trouble Mr Borowski?" Bea questioned as she slide down the side of the wall next to the door frame as she took one last puff of her dwindling cigarette. Bea exhaled a cloud of smoke as she took the butt of the cigarette and pressed it firmly into her arm putting the cigarette out her face didn't even flinch as her scaly skin melted she had many such marks going down her right arm they seemed fresh this was something she just recently started doing. Bea crumpled up the cigarette in her hand dropping the ashy remains on the floor next to her before she sighed heavily. She hasn't been doing well since the accident it's bad enough she had recently lost her father, now she had practically lost her best friend with whom their relationship was starting to evolve and change into something more. Bea still wasn't entirety sure if she wanted more with Mae at the time she enjoyed her interactions with the young feline though it could've been because she felt utterly alone and Mae just happened to be there yet now she couldn't help but to miss her friend who seemed all but gone at this point. Bea pressed her claws into her forehead that seemed to ache it was probably a low blood sugar headache she hadn't been eating well or sleeping well for that matter nothing seemed to be going well for the crocodile recently.
The sound of rushing water soon could be heard bellowing through the run down house as Mae stood in front of the shower twiddling her thumbs nervously as her mother leant over the tub adjusting the temperature while trying desperately not to get wet. "There sweetie all ready, you can hop in!" Candy spoke confidently as she stepped aside while gesturing for Mae to get in to the death trap of a shower as water menacingly rained from above shooting out of the shower head like bullets from a machine gun. Mae simply stood frozen a bit anxious, to the young naked amnesia driven cat showers were a relatively new concept this would be her second one that she was awake to experience. Who knows why Mae didn't like it, perhaps it was the sound of the rushing water or maybe it was the feeling of heaviness when the water drenched over her furry body or just maybe she didn't like the idea of her senses being blocked, sight by the steam, smell from the water, hearing from the gushing faucet. She preferred it quiet especially now maybe it was just her instincts that preferred it this way who knows.
Mae sighed relenting as she raised a leg reluctantly stepping into the shower Candy suddenly and playfully gave her daughter a little slap on the bum causing the young cat to shriek as her tail shot straight upward she quickly turned her head glaring daggers at Candy who merely chuckled. Mae stepped fully inside the shower as water began raining down from on high rushing through her fur while Candy pulled the shower curtain shut. "Just lemme know if you need anything sweetie, I'm always here for you... and no trying to jump out the window again, you nearly gave the neighbors a heart attack." Candy joked as she sat out a few towels on the sink before walking towards the bathroom door. Mae sighed breathing a burst of hot air through the steaming water it actually did feel nice though she remained hesitant something deep down inside just wouldn't let her relax. Mae reached for the the shrunken bar of soap she raised it to her nose sniffing the bar it gave off a pleasant scent of roses that was rather soothing. Mae's ears suddenly perked up she could somehow hear the sound of a door knob jiggling and for a moment her heart sped up. "MOM!" Mae suddenly screamed out as she pulled the curtains back she desperately didn't want her to leave. "Pl...please d...don't go..." Mae begged her eyes closed tightly shut as she fell to her knees clinging to the side of the tub wall.
Everything grew quiet as Mae slowly opened her eyes, her pupils trembled as they lit up a light hue of silver blue. Mae stared over to her mother who just stood frozen in place under the doorway, sluggishly Mae turned her head looking up toward the faucet above as water droplets floated completely immobilized in the air. A look of utter confusion fell upon Mae's face as she looked over toward her mother once more and then suddenly everything sped up as the water slammed into Mae's head surprising the young feline. Candy continued out of the bathroom it seemed like she hadn't heard her daughter's plea a mere moment ago the old felines' ears suddenly twitched picking up a sound. "M...Mom... pl...please... d...don't leave!" Mae whispered lowly her voice was barely audible as she sniffled lightly while lowering her head down leaning it against the wall of tub as water poured down onto her back. Candy's ears suddenly jumped up hearing something she hasn't heard since before Mae's accident.
After a few moments had passed the smell of fresh raspberries unexpectedly began filling the room quite strangely as bubbles spawning as if from out of nowhere danced around in the air surrounding the young feline. "Hey, Mae scooch!" Candy prodded playfully while standing just above her daughter as she emptied a bottle of bubble bath into the tub. Mae opened her eyes wide seeing bubbles suddenly all around her was quite enchanting, considering her situation she had never seen a sight like it before she watched awestruck as a bubble gently fell landing on her nose it popped satisfyingly once touching her sniffer causing the grief stricken cat to giggle happily a welcomed change to her demeanor. Candy tossed the empty bottle into the sink before beginning to remove her clothes deep down she knew her daughter didn't want her to go.
Mae smiled softly while scooting backwards giving her mother some space she seemed relieved for her to join her in the tub as her tail began to subconsciously wiggle back and forth. Candy chuckled seeing her daughter happy was all that she needed to get through the day and with this big move truly life for the Borowski family was changing in a major way they were about to leave Possum Springs behind potentially and hopefully forever. Candy pushed in the stop block keeping the water from draining as she sat down in the tub across from her daughter she sighed heavily as the warm water began pounding her achy back. "Ahh I really hope the shower in our new place is as good as this one has been!" Candy opened her eyes staring down toward her daughter whom for a single instant appeared as if a young child, the notch on her ear was gone and her eyes were as big as saucers. Candy blinked and the scene before her changed yet her daughter's smile remained the same as it was all those years ago, except something had caught the old cats' eye she had noticed a fading silverish blue hue to Mae's eyes somehow it wasn't the first time she'd witnessed this odd phenomenon.
Meanwhile outside Bea and Stan seemed to be finishing up with packing as they stuffed the last boxes into the truck they were organized in such a way it was almost like someone was playing a game of Tetris. "Ahh I think we only have a few more and then we will be all packed up and ready to ship out." Stan spoke in between breaths as he hoped up on the back of the truck for a brief spell. Bea reached for her pack of smokes in her front pocket she held the box in hand glaring angrily down toward it as scowl appeared on the crocs' face it was empty she had smoked her last. Bea furiously crumpled up the box and slammed it on the ground before smashing her boot on top of the paper pack further destroying the innocent container. "Whoa, Beatrice... is everything..." Stan spoke before cutting himself short realizing it was a rather stupid question considering all she has been through it'd be shocking if she was alright.
Bea frantically paced back and forth after a few moments she began scratching the side of her head anxiously. When Mae was first in the hospital she thought that she might try to give up smoking though it became much more difficult after losing her father then when she lost Mae it seemed impossible. Stan felt exhausted from just watching her pacing. "Beatrice why not come sit with me for a bit, you're making me tired just watching you!" Stan joked as he gently pat the space next to him gesturing for her to take a seat. Bea simply continued to pace her hearing sounded like she was in a tunnel she didn't even hear that he was talking to her. "Beatrice!" Stan repeated a tad louder finally garnering her attention she stood still before looking back toward him. "Y...Yes, Mr Borowski, d...did you need something?" Bea questioned trying to be polite yet some of her anger slipped through as she stood still itching her side a bit nervously. "Come sit for a moment!" Stan spoke his voice sounding more concerned. "...and how many times do I gotta tell you, you can call me Stan!" He reassured as Bea hopped up sitting down next to him finally she was still at last.
A gentle breeze blew past ruffling the older cats' fur it was a tad cool outside though in Possum Springs it always seemed cold outside. The crisp chill was broken by the rising sun it's warm rays illuminated the two resting in the truck, despite that Bea's anxious withdrawal symptoms weren't content with just fresh air and sunshine she desperately needed another smoke. "Beatrice!" Stan spoke lowly as he turned his gaze toward her seeing the young crocodile nervously scratching the side of her head. The older feline once smoked when he was younger though he had managed to quit right before his daughter was born into the world he knew what those nicotine withdrawal symptoms felt like. Stan motioned a hand in her direction he cautiously rested it on her shoulder letting her know he was there cause he wasn't sure she realized that fact.
Bea sat on the edge of the truck staring up into the sky her heart continued galloping around in her chest. The crocodile couldn't think straight and it wasn't just due to the side effects of withdrawal no it was something else, isn't it always. Bea squeezed her eyes tightly shut as memories began swelling up playing on repeat in her head. She recalled the time in her apartment complex inside her bedroom just before the building went down she had tried to kill herself for a second time.
The room was dark with only a few beams of light peaking through the melted window shades the wretched smell of burnt wood and plastic filled the room making it rather difficult to breathe. Bea stood holding her father's 45 in hand she merely glared down toward it for a moment before raising it closer. Bea's hands began to tremble as she opened her mouth sliding the barrel past her fangs she could taste the rust on the slide of the older weapon against her tongue. Tears shimmering in what little light their was streamed down the crocodile's face as she placed a finger on the trigger her entire body now shaking it was clear that she was utterly miserable and terrified yet still determined at the same time she simply couldn't go on not like this, something had to change.
The sound of a loud gunshot filled the room as the scene distorted while Bea's body fell to the floor blood quickly pooling around her head as the scene shifted changing. Bea stood inside the very same room just days prior a mere foot away from Mae while aiming her father's gun at the felines' head she pulled the trigger firing a round sending it ripping through Mae's forehead shattering the window behind her as glass exploded resulting in yet another distortion as the scene shifted. Bea stood outside watching as the Ol' Pickaxe burnt down to the very ground, she held a pack of matches in hand with a canister of gasoline at her side everything seemed like it was flying by at eighty miles an hour as the scene distorted once more.
Bea opened the door to her apartment feeling utterly exhausted from work she tossed her bag on the counter top in the kitchen before reaching into the fridge for a soda. "Hey dad you up, I was thinking about ordering a pizza. I brought a cool zombie movie Angus recommend to me, thought we could watch it together you know it's been a while since we had a movie night!" Bea spoke followed by a tired chuckle as she stepped into the living room. The can of soda in Bea's hand fell to the floor as the crocodile's eyes expanded to the sight of her father lying on his back with foam at his mouth and nostrils. He wasn't breathing he laid their lifeless unmoving Bea tattooed the sight of her father into her mind that night, beer cans littered the coffee table the scent was strong with alcohol it was enough to gag someone. Bea slowly fell to her knees as the scene changed yet again.
Bea watched on in terror as debris rained down onto her feline friend seemingly crushing her to death it replayed repeatedly torturing the poor crocodile whom only sought out a moment of peace in the depths of her twisted mind. "Bea..." - "Beatrice...!" - "BEEEEAAAAAAAA!" Voices screamed out to the crocodile who tried to block them out the sound of scratching could be heard soon after the voices dispersed. Bea opened her eyes to a new scene one much more welcoming than the last. Mae stood stark naked underneath the shower head in the hospital bathroom it was steamy and moist the cat seemed to gesture for Bea to come closer the rosy cheeked crocodile was hesitant though couldn't quite help herself as she drew near to her friend. "Bea... Bea can you do my back?" Mae requested as she flashed a cute smile in her friend's direction while passing her the soapy loofah. Bea complied not feeling like she really had a choice it was like she was a puppet on strings. If Bea could speak to the real Mae she would probably do more than just wash her back there was so much she wanted to say to her friend. Bea scrubbed the felines' back though something was wrong the white soap suddenly turned red as the peaceful scene distorted yet again.
Tears poured out of Bea's eyes as she held Mae in her arms blood soaked into the sleeves of her jacket as she cradled the feline close. The fierce dust cloud from the exploding building mere yards away overtook the surrounding spectators as bits of debris continued raining down around them. Bea's ears rang like a gun was just fired beside her head she couldn't even hear Officer Molly who was screaming right beside of her as the paralyzed crocodile just stared down to her friend in her arms. Mae's face grew pale losing its luster as a line of blood ran from her mouth down her neck, shimmering tears fell onto the young cats' face as the crocodile gave in unable to hold back any longer her heart split in twain as she cried at the top of her lungs screaming relentlessly.
"Beatrice..." Stan repeated as he shook the dazed crocodile whom still didn't acknowledge him the old cat grew concerned as he watched tears flow down the crocodile's face. Stan decided enough was enough he had to be bold as he suddenly pulled Bea in close hugging her tightly he cradled her head against his chest. Bea blinked her eyes repeatedly finally snapping out of her nightmarish dreamscape she sniffled lightly before beginning to sob softly into Stan's arms it reminded her of her father for a little bit at least. Stan gently pat Bea on the back of the head as he held her close not willing to let go any time soon she so desperately needed this feeling of comfort and safety as the crocodile cried softly thoughts raced in her mind. Stan finally took notice to the burn marks on the young crocs arms his heart ached knowing she'd done it to herself probably just trying to feel something other than grief. "It's... it's okay Beatrice, you're not alone..." Stan whispered to the feeble croc who's eyes suddenly broadened hearing an echo amongst Stan's words. "...Bea, I'm still here... you are still here! ...and you are not alone!" The distant voice of her friend followed behind Stan's words. Bea could hear Mae's voice remembering what she once said to her made the crocodile's pounding heart ease to a now steadier rhythm .
"Th...tha...thank you!" Was all Bea could manage her voice so low and shaky it was barely audible as she nuzzled further into Stan's chest while he lovingly rubbed his soft fuzzy chin against the croc's scaly forehead trying to give her as much comfort as he was capable of providing. "Beatrice... I know you are hurting so much right now, I can feel it!" Stan uttered softly as Bea breathed exhaling deeply she sniffed taking in the scent of Stan's cologne and for a moment it reminded the heart broken crocodile of her father's that he used to wear when mom was still alive. "Please Beatrice don't hurt yourself think of how Mae would react if she knew..." Stan continued as he cleared his throat from the pent up emotions. Bea raised a claw carefully wiping her eyes clear Stan continued to hold her close Bea didn't want to break free from his grasp just yet either. A final few glistening tears dropped onto Stan's exposed chest they slid through his fur soaking in. Stan sighed feeling relief he and his wife Candy always wanted to have more children but sadly weren't able due to medical reasons, to the old cat it was like he had a second daughter to love and to cherish.
Inside the Borowski house light giggles could be heard throughout as Candy and Mae playfully splashed one another in the steamy bathtub. "Hehehe! St...staph! Hehehehe!" Mae laughed excitedly as her mother tackled her locking into a fierce ticklehold it's much like a stranglehold but you're tickled instead, it's quite menacing. "Oh no way, I'm gonna getcha... tickle tickle tickle!" Candy chanted as she poked and prodded wiggling her fingers all over Mae whom continued laughing uncontrollably it was a much welcomed sound. "Hehehe! Hahahaha!" Mae snorted in between bouts of laughter that was much like a drug she grew addicted to, it felt different, it was nice, it felt real for once, ever since she first woke up Mae didn't feel real it was like she just came into existence and was just going through the motions not feeling anything as people talked at her their words going in one ear and out the other they meant nothing, she felt nothing.
Candy took notice to Mae's face it was beginning to turn blue from the laughter, she quickly eased up on her daughter releasing her from her grasp. Mae jumped away from her mother as she panted heavily yet still giggling in between breaths as Candy sat back leaning against the wall relaxing for a moment. "Hehe! Th...that w...was... it wa...was..." Mae's sentence just trailed off she didn't know exactly what it was she was feeling, all she knew was that she liked it the corners of her mouth crept upward into a giddy smile that she flashed toward her mom. "It was fun! What you are feeling sweetie, it's called happiness!" Candy explained as she slowly motioned through the warm steamy bathwater toward her daughter. "Ha...Happy!" Mae uttered softly as she sank down her snout now just above the surface of the water she blew air causing bubbles to pop repeatedly on the surface. Candy merely spectated to the sight of her daughter she couldn't believe how energetic and playful Mae was, she was radically different from how she used to be not just but a few weeks ago. Mae's eyes suddenly spotted a yellow creature slowly floating out from behind a mound of foamy bubbles it approached Mae's snout bumping into her sniffer she reached up for the little rubber duckie with her paw.
"Hey Mae come sit in front of mommy for a second, I wanna wash your back!" Candy requested happily. "O...okay!" Mae replied quickly as she turned motioning toward her mom. Mae sat in front of her staring straight into her mother's eyes Candy simply chuckled at the sight of her goofy clueless expression. "Hehe, sweetie I sorta need you to turn around!" Candy kindly instructed as she grabbed her daughter's shoulders gently gesturing for her to turn around. "Oh! O...o...okay!" Mae uttered meekly as she complied rotating around for Candy whom swiftly went to work she lathered her paws up and massaged her back as soap suds multiplied exponentially nearly over taking the young feline. Mae merely held the little rubber duckie in her paws while she watched bubbles fall in front of her popping one after another once hitting the steamy surface of the water. Mae chuckled feeling her mother dig into her armpit it felt like at any moment she could strike again with another fearsome tickle attack. Candy moved her paws upward she began gently scrubbing Mae's scalp the young cat began to involuntarily purr all of a sudden. Candy slowed down to a halt she had noticed the spot on the back of her daughter's head where a little fur was missing and a fresh scar remained still healing. For a brief moment Candy recalled the horrifying scene as she and her husband had arrived to the hospital on that horrid day.
It was daytime just after noon as Candy and Stan burst through the doors of the Emergency Room several nurses and even some doctors tried to keep them out blocking their path. Bea walked out from behind some closed doors looking utterly traumatized her face sported a blank lifeless expression. Candy and Stan gasped at Bea's appearance blood soaked her clothes some drops fell onto the floor by the crocodile's feet. The doctors finally let the shocked felines pass as they approached Bea who didn't even acknowledge their presence. Stan stood in front of Bea he grabbed her hands leading her to a nearby chair to sit down as Candy rushed past looking through a small window on the locked doors leading to the ICU she peered into the room and her heart nearly came to a complete halt as she raised a paw covering her mouth. The scene before her showed Mae drenched in blood lying on her stomach on an operating table as surgeons operated on her head and back. Monitors in the back of the room that showed the patient's vital signs began flashing as the sound of beeping poured out into the hallway. Tears streamed down Candy's face as she clung to the door her stomach grew sickly she felt like she might vomit her legs grew weak as if they would collapse out from underneath her as Candy watched helplessly.
"M...mom... mom... mom!"
A nurse helped Candy up and over toward the waiting area Stan glanced up seeing his wife approaching the expression on her face told him all he needed. As Candy sat down Stan immediately grabbed her paw squeezing it tightly as Bea laid across two chairs with her head resting in Stan's lap. Stan sighed heavily both Bea and Candy seemed completely out of commission he had to remain strong for them and for his daughter. The old feline swallowed harshly as his eyes released a single tear sliding down his cheeks. "It'll be okay!" Stan spoke lowly as gave his wife a weak smile though she had her eyes focused on the door to the ICU. "Our daughter is a trooper, she can handle this, that's what I believe... no that's what I know!" Stan spoke a bit more confidently as Candy finally turned to face him she leaned her head weakly against his shoulder. Bea remained unmoving her pupils continued trembling as she blinked repeatedly suddenly the crocodile jolted at feeling Stan's soft paw caress her forehead in a comforting manner.
Time seemed to drag on for the three as they awaited news, dozens of people walked past as afternoon swiftly turned to midnight. Candy never for a moment took her eyes off the red light emitting from the ICU logo, it symbolized the fighting hope of the family and that the surgeons were still operating and that their daughter was still hanging on. Stan had nodded off at some point all this sitting had made him tired which is pretty ironic hopefully the old cat dreamed of happier times. Bea finally had sat up she held her claws on her knees leaning forward just breathing she could feel the dried blood on her clothing stiffening her outfit truly she was ready for Halloween she looked like an axe murderer or something. Bea raised her hands seeing them covered in Mae's blood causing her breathing to suddenly rapid getting faster and faster. A nurse approached the young crocodile who appeared to be breaking down right there in the lobby. The nurse placed a hand on her knee drawing the attention of the croc who raised her head tears streaming from her face once more.
"Sweetie can you come with me, I have a change of clothes for you!" The nurse spoke kindly yet Bea seemed unable to hear her as her ears just rang loudly. "You can change in here, come come!" The nurse uttered softly as Bea merely blinked her eyes repeatedly while the nurse led her away into a nearby room. The light on the ICU logo suddenly went dark as Candy began ruthlessly shaking her husband abruptly waking him up. "Darling w...wake up, wake up I think... I think it's..." Candy spoke stuttering heavily feeling a bit groggy as the doors to the ICU began opening slowly as light poured out through the expanding doorway.
"M...mom! Mom!"
Candy blinked her eyes as the scene in her head faded away now just a distant nightmare one more she wished she could just forget though it seemed to haunt her to no end. "Mooooom!" Mae groaned as she had her head twisted around glaring up at the older feline who merely stared back down at her looking a bit confused. "Wh...wha" - "Wh...Why did y...you stop, th...that felt r...really... it... it felt... it felt ha...happy!" Mae spoke stuttering while cutting her mother off, Mae was feeling a bit let down the massage was oh so soothing. Candy simply chuckled seeing a pouty expression on her daughter's face she continued once more scrubbing the young feline's head ensuring to keep clear of the scar it probably still hurt if it was touched. Mae suddenly began purring softly feeling very relaxed all of a sudden as her mom dug into her scalp in a soothing fashion. The door to the bathroom slowly opened as in walked Stan and Bea they stopped in their tracks at the sight before them. Candy turned her head seeing the two standing at the door looking a bit shocked. "Uhhh... hi!" Candy spoke with a little chuckle realizing she should have locked the door. "H...hey!" Mae added timidly. Stan suddenly broke out into fierce laughter he couldn't help but feel nostalgic at seeing his two girls bathing together it had been quite a long time since he'd last seen this cute sight.
"Mo...mom wh...why is d...dad laughing like that?!" Mae questioned wondering what was so funny she genuinely didn't understand though she couldn't help but to giggle softly along with him. Candy joined in chuckling as she continued scrubbing causing Mae's motor to start up yet again with its light purrs. "Oh he just thinks he's so funny! It's nothing sweetie!" Candy reassured in a loving tone. "Oh I know I'm funny, hehehe! ...wait a minute... Mae d...did you just ca...call me...?" Stan questioned trailing off as he smiled broadly from ear to ear at hearing those words come from his daughter he hadn't heard it in weeks. Bea spectated quietly while standing beside of Stan she stared at Mae surrounded by a flurry of bubbles with a wide smile visible on her face that also sported a somewhat goofy expression probably resulting from her mother scratching the perfect spot, you know what that feels like. Bea smiled a small smile at seeing Mae happy it seemed like things were starting to finally get better.
"Well hehehe anyway, we uhh just finished packing up Mae's room and loaded the boxes in the truck, so we're pretty much ready to depart!" Stan spoke feeling a bit glum knowing that their time here in this house was quickly coming to a end. "Umm... sweetie, you didn't happen to pack all of our clothes as well did you?" Candy inquired a tad annoyed. "Uhh... yea they're all packed, why?" Stan inquired a bit anxiously. "Gee, dear I dunno, I guess we'll be leaving stark naked then!" Candy explained furiously as she splashed water in his direction. "I'm o...okay w...with that!" Mae suddenly added with a little chuckle she merely wanted to be a part of the conversation, after all she really didn't care for clothes that much she was just like a two year old they simply felt too restricting. "Oh hush you!" Candy cooed as she playfully shoved Mae's head underneath the bubbly water for a brief moment. Bea's cheeks lit up red all of a sudden as some dirty thoughts trespassed in her mind she certainly had no qualms with that outcome. "Okay, okay I get the picture I'll go fetch the clothes boxes..." Stan complied as he turned to the door. "I just gotta remember which stack they're in..." he whispered to himself a bit nervously while stepping down the stairs.
"Bea, can you hand us some towels I left a few out on the counter over there!" Candy requested as she pulled the stop block up as water began draining. "Wha... h...hey come on... n...not yet!" Mae pleaded childishly as the water levels sank around her. "What you all of a sudden like baths now, what happened to despising it with all of your being?" Candy questioned with a raised brow while she stood up slowly feeling immensely heavy her fur had soaked up water like a sponge she turned toward the still gushing shower head washing the soap suds off herself. Bea motioned for the towels on the sink she listened to the two felines bickering over the water the crocodile sighed feeling a bit at ease the Brorowski house sure was lively she liked that, it was a welcomed change from how she used to live. Candy pulled Mae up onto her feet the young feline suddenly fell forward crashing against her mother's stomach she felt wobbly and off balance and could hardly stand from the weight of the water. "S...so heavy!" Mae uttered timidly as Candy suddenly grabbed the young cat by the hips and stood her under the shower head rinsing the abundant soap suds off of her daughter who honestly looked like a snow woman she was so covered in them.
Bea's face lit up brightly as she stared at the two felines standing stark naked her attention mainly focused on Mae who appeared as if she had lost some weight which wasn't that surprising. She had been in the hospital for a while and they basically had to reacclimatize her to eating which as you can imagine didn't go so well at first. Bea quickly turned her head looking away trying not to seem obvious as she stood beside the bathtub holding a towel spread open. Mae raised a leg carefully stepping up over the tub wall as Candy held her back for support. Mae after instantly stepping one paw on the slick tile floor unsurprisingly slipped falling forward into Bea's arms who jolted at her presence pressing up against her chest.
"H..hey are... are y...you okay?" Mae questioned softly while staring up at Bea who's face was basically a whole tomato she had transcended from that of a crocodile to that of a mere vegetable. Bea glanced down to the cat who leaned on her chest desperately trying to stay standing. The only thing between the both of them was a thin towel and the croc's own clothing. The anxious reptile took notice of the concerned look on the little felines' face as her whiskers bounced up and down freely she seemed so adorable at that moment. Sweat rolled down the sides of Bea's face as she sluggishly wrapped the towel around Mae while still feebly resisting the temptation to stare all oogly eyed. "I... I'm fine... I should be the one asking you that, hehe... h...how, how are you?" Bea jokingly replied followed with her own questions of concern. "I'm... I... I'm h..happy!" Mae answered timidly with an expanding toothy grin she felt very comfortable being surrounded by such caring people, even if deep down she had really only known them for a short duration, they were so kind to her it made her not feel so alone and so scared unlike how she was when she had just awoken for the first time. Bea chuckled at hearing Mae say she was happy the expression on her face was very revealing to the croc.
Mae could still recall that night in the hospital, it would be the first of many traumatizing events that would forever change her outlook on life, it haunted her daily it could rear it's ugly head at any time shifting its way to the forefront of her mind. Mae's smile suddenly began to fade as she clutched the towel wrapped around herself tightly with one paw, she brandished the towel as if it was a makeshift shield for a sense of impending doom had begun to dawn on the feline who trembled. Mae meekly extended a paw outward reaching toward her friend who was standing a few inches away. A bead of sweat slid down the nervous crocodile's face as she felt an itch creeping up on her as the sight of Mae before her suddenly shifted briefly flashing an image of Mae covered in blood it startled the crocodile causing her to take a single step backwards. Mae closed her eyes sighing heavily as she tried to block out the thoughts creeping up on her she knew they were coming but didn't want this not today she just wanted to be happy and to feel safe with her new family just for once couldn't she have that. Bea shook her head back and forth in disagreement as the peaceful scene before her was now gone entirely replaced once again with a familiar nightmare only this time Bea seemed to be spectating from further away like she was watching in third person or something.
Mae opened her eyes slowly as the room lit up she knew it was happening again she was unable to stop it. Tears began leaking drop by drop from the felines' eyes as she tried desperately to move but was unable. Her body was restricted by a medical paralysis she was entirely immobilized, a plastic tube stuck out of her throat breathing for her as machines nearby pumped and whistled keeping her vitals stable. She had intravenous fluids flowing into each arm she could feel the warmth of the liquids as they seeped into her veins. To top it off the feline was experiencing a massive throbbing headache worse than the strongest migraine. She couldn't recall her name or even where she was or what was going on, she couldn't move she couldn't speak she could only feel one thing and it was fear, utterly and absolutely.
The young felines' heart began racing as a loud piercing beeping filled the now ever darkening room that seemed to shrink like it was collapsing on top of her, and then suddenly several faces appeared one after another staring down at the fearful immobilized amnesia struck cat whom merely stared back at them blinking repeatedly it was all she could do. Her heart rate calmed only ever so slightly thanks to their presence she didn't recognize their faces, she didn't know them but they seemed to know her the looks on their faces said it all they seemed twisted and grief stricken yet they tried to hide it for some reason. Mae continued to move trying desperately she was begging mentally feeling completely helpless unable to speak or move or to do anything at all. "Mae... pumpkin... baby..." Spoke one of the faces her voice trembling as it reached out to caress the bed ridden feline on the cheek it spoke yet the mouth on the face strangely wasn't moving. Mae stared up to the floating face amongst the darkness filled room her vision blurred and seemed to fade. "Mae... it's... it's g...gonna be okay... it's okay!" The fading voice echoed into the depths of Mae's mind as the room grew dark.
Bea watched herself from a distance as several horrid scenes flashed by quickly much like someone was fast forwarding a video tape in an old VCR. Bea was actually beginning to feel numb to the trauma at this point. Suddenly everything began to reverse like her life was rewinding days, weeks, months all quickly passed by showing all of Beatrice's life soon years began passing as her eyes broadened she fell to her knees as everything moving at the speed of light around her seemed to blur together until finally it ceased coming to a complete halt.
Bea watched a younger version of herself standing at her mother's bedside she gulped swallowing harshly at the sight before her she could practically smell the hospital room the scent of medicine was strong in the air. The scene was hazy like a dream her mother looked very tired her cheeks sunken in with tubes running down her body the sound of a subtle beeping could be heard the old crocodile she had been battling with cancer for many years. Bea's body shook trembling her breathing became unsteady as the old crocodile in bed weakly turned her head staring at the younger croc. "Beatrice..." the weakened crocodile spoke her voice shaky and low. Beatrice still on her knees watched from afar as the scene unfolded she began choking as if she couldn't breath while watching helplessly.
"Beatrice, what comes next will be hard... and even though I won't be there to guide you, I...I can't... bu...but j...just know that I will always be w...watching over you and I will always be in y...your heart... wh...when you feel happy and smile I'll be smiling right with you, and even though you won't see me just know I am." Beatrice's mom spoke softly her words echoing at varying degrees of volume. Bea within a single instant within the mere blink of an eye she suddenly found herself right at her mother's side. "Bea, my baby... I know you are hurting, I can see it..." Bea's mother continued yet her words seemed clearer all of a sudden.
Bea's father suddenly appeared standing on the opposite side of the hospital bed as the young crocodile's eyes extended outward in surprise. She took in the kind smiles on their faces but something was wrong Beatrice didn't remember this moment playing out like this in her memory it wasn't the same. "Beatrice... I know... I know I wasn't the best father toward you... but just know sweetie that I will always love you with all of my being... no matter what you choose to do with your life or wherever you decide to go or whomever your heart loves." He uttered happily feeling so relieved that he could finally say those words to his daughter to give her his blessing to move on that she didn't need to stay attached to Possum Springs or even to her family or to her ways of life.
Beatrice's face twisted with grief as her chin crinkled up tightly tears stained her cheeks as she listened quietly. "Beatrice... you are strong... my darling, you never let our deaths knock you down, your foundation may have shaken but it has not fallen... you are not lost and you are not alone, you are still here my little one my little shining angel and there are still people in your life who love you just as we!" Beatrice's mother spoke her voice sounding stronger and more confident as her face appeared healthy and bright. Bea suddenly felt a hand grab her own she glanced down seeing a dark blue paw clutching her claw. The crocodile slowly rotated her head off to the side seeing Mae standing beside of her smiling proudly her eyes brightly glowed with a silver hue tinted blue. "Bea..." Mae uttered as she tightened her grip on the feeble crocodile who smiled softly feeling so loved. "We will always be with you!" Bea's mother and father spoke in unison as the room began to grow brighter and brighter blinding the little crocodile.
"Mae... Bea..." Candy called out to the two girls that were a mere yard away as she cocked a confused eyebrow upward while throwing her bath towel around herself. "Girls... are you both alright...?" Candy questioned as she cautiously moved closer something seemed off the older feline could feel it there was a fowl tension in the air it was thickening with each passing second. The lights above began to flicker rapidly as the faucet sink turned on all of a sudden spewing water fiercely while the bathroom door slowly began moving on its own as its hinges creaked ominously the door slammed shut causing the fur on Candy's back to shoot up standing on end. "Girls...?!" Candy repeated a bit nervously as she reached for Mae grabbing her on the shoulder as the old feline drew closer electricity filled the air.
Candy first noticed that Mae was holding Bea's hand tightly as she peeked past Mae looking between them suddenly a pit formed in the worried cat's stomach as she soon realized both of the shell shocked girls were crying with tears flowing down their cheeks. Candy finally took notice to her daughter seeing her face straight on revealed that the young felines' eyes were glowing intensely far brighter than they ever had before the silverish blue gaze nearly pierced straight through Candy, who began to ferociously shake her daughter trying desperately to snap her out of whatever this was as a bead of sweat ran down the frightened felines' face. "Mae... Mae... Mae, sweetie please!" Candy begged as she pushed her daughter backwards breaking her grasp on the crocodile's hand. The once flickering lights ceased before they grew brighter within a single instant before the bulbs unexpectedly popped sending little shards of glass raining down into the floor. Mae's eyes suddenly slammed shut as she fell to the floor dropping like a rock Bea soon followed right after the crocodile's body went limp. Candy merely panted breathing heavily as she shifted her gaze looking back and forth between Bea then back to her daughter she didn't know what to do or even what the hell was happening. "STAAAANNNN! HONEY I NEED YOU!" Candy screamed out from the bathroom her voice sounding very panicked and unsteady.
Time seemed to pass by quickly as the distressed pair of felines worked together moving Mae and Bea into the master bedroom laying them on the king sized bed to rest. They seemed fine psychically with all things considered but as Candy explained what had happened to Stan he remained utterly awestruck unsure of what they could do it wasn't like they could just call for an ambulance they weren't actually hurt technically. Stan and Candy sat on the floor across from Bea and Mae as fading sunlight poured in through the slits in the window shades illuminating dust particles floating in the air. Candy held her head in her hands her body continued to tremble as she sat in silence Stan scooted close leaning against his wife as he gently placed a paw on the distressed felines' leg. Stan stared up to the ceiling fan spinning slowly over head it circulated a cool calming breeze as he sighed heavily feeling very tired already and they hadn't even left the house yet the day had truly just begun and it was shaping up to be a long one.
Chapter End