Hello again everyone! Here with chapter 3 of Hunter Dalmatian! I just wanted to say real quick thank you to everyone reading this story. I was really worried it would completely go under the radar, but it has slowly been getting a lot of attention. I am so glad a lot of you are enjoying this so much.
And for some reason it keeps glitching on fanfiction…I don't know why it keeps becoming unavailable and as far as I know there is nothing I can do about it. Only thing I can say is if it keeps messing up please go to the story on Archive of Our Own (AO3). It is under the same title and username so it shouldn't be too hard to find. (Side note: Adding this part as I am almost done with the chapter. So far it hasn't seemed to happen again and apparently it wasn't actually blocked. I think the website was just being weird that day. Do for that I am putting the story back to K+ cause shouldn't need to be higher.)
Also we have a special guest today! Please welcome…..Hunter!
Hunter: What am I doing here again?
*sigh* I want you to be my co-host. I have one of the main characters from each of my stories help with intro's from time to time.
Hunter: Oh, well….hi? (Hunter waved to the readers still getting used to breaking the fourth wall. He seems a little embarrassed being thrown into this at the last second)
Hey no need to be nervous. You'll get the hang of this easily.
Hunter: I-I don't know about that. Shouldn't Dylan or Dolly be here instead? I'm sure they would be much better.
Dolly: We already offered.
Dylan: But 7 here said he wanted to ask you first. We don't mind taking over if you don't ever feel like it.
How long have you been standing there?
Dolly: Just got here. Door was wide open.
Fair enough. Now back to the objective, do you want to co-host Hunter?
Hunter: What do I even do?
Oh not much. Introduce the chapter, respond to comments, provide commentary like this in the notes, sometimes I'll have little funny moments/skits.
Dolly: Yeah most of the stuff is pointless. I think he just doesn't have anyone else to talk to. (she snickered at her own comment)
Hey. I do too have people to talk to! I just like to think what it would be to talk to characters in stories as well!
Dylan: Alright, alright! No need to get defensive.
Haha. Sorry, just a little tired from classes. But regardless I'm glad to still be writing when I have the time.
Hunter: Hey guys shouldn't we be getting to the story? The first page is almost full."
Huh. *Looks down* So it would seem. Alright time to wrap this up. For at least this time Hunter please introduce the story and we can talk more about you being co-host while to story continues.
Hunter: W-what do I say again? *Dolly whispers in his ear*
Hunter: Uhhh….The author does not own 101 Dalmatian street or a-any characters, please enjoy the new chapter.
See not too bad for a first time.
Hunter: I guess
Chapter 3: Can He Stay?
After the long day Dylan and Dolly had they thought it would get easier from here. Who knew that today would go as it did? Hunter showing up for help, clearly tired, and carrying a duffel bag. (Which thankfully Dolly moved to the living room) Neither one knew what to think when he knocked on their door. Dylan especially hesitant to even talk to him at first.
Hunter had only been in the house with them barley half a day, but a lot happened in that time. The biggest thing being what happened in the attic. (Which reminded both of them they needed to talk to Dawkins and Deepak about how much more responsibility they were giving themselves) Hunter's panic attack scared all of them and then later finding out he hasn't been eating probably really worried them.
But some good things happened. For starters he helped make a new family album that will also act as a way for him to help remember all the pups' names. He's even already become friends with many of the pups. And he did get some food and is finally laying down to rest. Which they honestly should have offered sooner when they saw the bags under his eyes.
After getting him to bed Dylan and Dolly were hoping it would be smooth sailing from here, but they kind of forgot one important detail.
"Kids we're home!" Their father yelled from the door as they entered. They almost forgot about their parents. Dolly winced hoping her father's yell wouldn't wake up Hunter.
Dylan too was panicking in the inside. It just sunk in how badly their mother might react to this situation. At best, she would be mad but hopefully understanding, at worst…Hunter will probably be leaving before the sun completely sets. Same could possibly be said about their dad.
As they, along with Dawkins and Deepak started to panic, several of the pups came running to great their parents. Doug accepting the growing group hug while Delilah started to laugh. They both walked inside putting their work equipment away as the pups went to either go eat or play. Many of them noticeable staying away from the living room.
'Should have had him sleep upstairs.' Dylan thought.
"Heeeeey Mom and Dad! How was work?" Dolly not very subtle about her nervousness. But it seems that neither of their parents noticed as they were both very tired.
"Busy as usual. Not much out of the ordinary." Delilah responded.
"Glad to see the house still standing." Doug joked. "I take it not too much happened today then?" As they talked both parents started to walk to the living room. Deepak and Dawkins ran ahead making sure to be quiet and not raise suspicion…and completely fail as they bump into each other trying to stand in front of the living room entrance. They shake themselves to regain their balance acting like nothing happened.
Dylan slapped himself on the face having a feeling this was only going to end in disaster.
"Are you two alright?" Delilah asked looking her two sons over. Even if they weren't actually hurt you can never stop a mother from worrying.
"Yep!" Both pups said smiling nervously. At this point all four of them were trying to decide who would break the news to their parents. That the kid that saved them from Cruella, after trying to kidnap them, was asleep on their couch. Both parents finally noticed how nervous all four pups looked.
Both parents looked at their children confused. They know them well enough that they know something was up. Question is, what it was this time?
"Uhhhh…well we did some cool things today." Dolly said sitting next to her brothers. Dylan followed suit forming something akin to a barricade in front the living room.
"What are you kids hiding?" Delilah asked cutting to the chase. She was used to her children's antics, but something seemed off here. What could they be trying to hide? They don't usually try to block them from seeing whatever mess there is. Hide it yes, but rarely do they stall.
"W-who says were hiding something?" Dawkins asked also failing to sound calm. He's done this less than Dylan and such is not a very good liar.
"It written all over your face's kids. What happened? Nothing bad I hope." Doug asked.
"W-well that depends on your definition of bad." Dylan started. "We had a uhhh…friend come by today. He needed help with some stuff."
"Oh. And who is this 'friend?' You didn't injure Fergus again, did you?"
"Uhhh..n-no it's not Fergus. This is a newer friend."
"Well can we see this friend?" Their mom asked. Just then she caught a scent with her nose. A very familiar scent. Panic setting in she jumped over her children running into the living room! She turned around to face the couch ready to protect her family, but stopped at the scene she saw in front of her.
Right there was on the couch was Hunter DeVil, the boy whose scent she picked up, sleeping. And not only him but DeeDee, Dizzy, Dorothy, Damian, and Domino all sleeping next to him on different spots of the couch. Doug had quickly followed his wife also stopping not sure how to react to the scene before him.
"Soooooooo, about that new friend." Dylan whispered hoping his parents wouldn't freak out.
"If we can just go to another room, we can explain everything to you." Dawkins said Deepak nodding in agreement.
Delilah took a deep breath to calm herself down, able to realize there was no immediate danger. And that there was clearly more going on here than she might have thought at first. She started walking to the dining room, Doug and the pups following. Somehow, they managed to not wake up Hunter or any of the pups.
Once they were in the kitchen, Delilah sighed trying to gather her thoughts. "Someone please tell me what is going on and why that…boy is here?" She finally asked looking at her four children.
Dolly spoke first retelling what happened earlier that day, the others adding in their own parts. Hunter showing up at their doorstep, that he is now homeless with no family to go to and so he came to them for help.
Dylan explained that they offered to let him stay for the day, since he was clearly stressed and tired. And as thanks for saving them on that night. How Hunter briefly mentioned he has had nightmares about some of the pups getting hurt and wanting to get to know the family better.
Dawkins and Deepak then started talking about what was worrying them the most. The incident in the attic. How Hunter got stuck in the box and seemed to think he was trapped in the shipping container and having what seemed like a panic attack. Dawkins also brought up that he and Deepak think he may have PTSD or at least Acute Stress Disorder, listing what they have observed from Hunter already. His nightmares, lack of sleep, his panic attack, and seemed to get scared easily.
Delilah wasn't sure to be impressed at how well her two sons researched about the topic or worried about the fact they had to in the first place.
Dolly then finished by mentioning that he told her and Dylan that he doesn't like to talk about Cruella for obvious reasons and even said to not refer her as his Aunt anymore. Dylan adding that he didn't like to refer to her by name either from what they could tell. And that, while not admitting it directly, apparently has not been eating properly. Their parents sat there for a moment processing everything that they were just told.
"T-t-that's a lot to take in kids." Doug said not sure what else to say.
"Sorry. We wanted to have Hunter with us to explain everything, but he was more tired than we even anticipated. Fell asleep as soon as he hit the pillow. And we kind of forgot to plan what to tell you when you guys got here." Dylan explained looking into the living room making sure Hunter and the pups were still asleep.
"How can you be sure he is telling the truth?" Delilah asked suddenly. She said it in such a stern but monotone voice that none of the pups, even Deepak, could tell how she was feeling. It was obvious she was concerned regardless and the most likely reason she is as calm as she is, is because of what she saw in the living room. She just wanted to be sure her pups knew what they were doing.
"He's been here for almost half the day." Deepak reasoned. "If he wanted to try something he would have done it before you two came home." Suddenly Dolly walked out of the room coming back in a few seconds later with Hunter's duffel bag placing it on the ground next to her parents.
"This is the bag he was carrying with him when he got here. When he was up in the attic, Dylan and I looked through it to be on the safe side. The only things in there are clothes, some granola bars, some money, and other basic stuff. No capture nets or anything like that."
"Also, we think he may have been around the area longer than he would want us to think. A lot of his clothes are wet or damp, and one of the jeans has a whole in it."
"Didn't it rain last night?" Dawkins asked not liking what this could be implying.
"The biggest give away though is that when looking through the bag, Dylan's allergies started acting up. We had Diesel check and confirmed that not only had Hunter been around a cat, but that the scent was Constantin's."
"Constantin?" Deepak asked surprised. "If Hunter was with him maybe he can explain some things." He said thinking he would have to visit his cat mentor soon.
"Ahem. I think we are getting a little off track." Delilah said trying to get everyone to calm down. "But you have made some good points. I'm glad to see that you four are not just blindly trusting him." She spoke. "I don't mean to sound like I don't trust you kids or that I'm mad at you, but this is putting a lot on me at your father." In truth she was glad that her kids are so kind and helpful, she wouldn't have it any other way. But this was a lot to take in. And sometimes they can be a little too trusting.
"We're sorry mom. We didn't really know how to react at first either. But we felt that we couldn't just turn him away. Especially after he helped us. Well…Dolly did. Admittedly I was more cautious myself but after everything that happened today, I don't think Hunter has anything to hide from us. He really does need help."
The four pups watched for their parent's reactions to see what they would say. Doug spoke first.
"Thank you for explaining everything kids. Your mother and need to talk in private for a moment. We'll be right back." Doug said. The four nodded as their parents walked into the dining room closing the door behind them.
"So what do are you thinking dear?" Doug asked.
"I honestly don't know." Delilah sighed.
"Well I'll say one thing. The kids definitely got their need to help others from you." Doug tried to joke to lighten the mood. It did get Delilah to smile a little.
"They got it from you too dear. And I couldn't be prouder of them." She sighed before continuing. "It's just, that boy is a De Vil. Can we really trust him? It hasn't even been a week since everything that happened." She tried to reason.
"We've been watching the news. We know that Cruella is still in jail, and the pups make a good point, he did help us in the end. And saved Dorothy when we couldn't."
"He is also the part of the reason we got captured in the first place." Delilah seethed. Thinking back to that night when Hunter got her with the capture net.
"I know, I know. But can we really blame him?" Doug asked. "It was clear he only did it because it was what all Cruella wanted him to do. It's no different than a dog being trained to hunt." Doug tried to reason.
"How are you so calm about this dear?"
"You know I have a soft spot for kids." Doug joked. "But also, it's because of everything that the kids told us. That boy clearly needs help. Especially if he does possibly have Acute Stress Disorder. Given our jobs we can't ignore that." Her husband explained.
Delilah thought back to what she saw in the living room. Getting to see the boy when not fighting for their lives did give her a different perspective. Hunter is a very small boy. Only taking up one cushion on the couch. (And if he hasn't been eating then that is very bad.) She also remembered the pups sleeping with him. Domino acting as a small blanket. Hunter's hand on top of him to keep the pup from falling. Sub-consciously petting the small pup. Damian sleeping on top more than likely acting as a guard. The twins sleeping on the arm rest next to his head. And sweet little Dorothy sleeping in the boy's hair! If so many of their children were already so trusting, maybe she was being over paranoid? And of course, there were the points her husband made.
"Your right we can't. But I think the better option would be for him to go to an orphanage."
"Sweety you and I both now that would not be the best option. Not right now anyways. He came here because he is afraid to go to an orphanage. Forcing him to go would not make anything better."
"Then what do you suggest?" Delilah asked.
"We let him stay for a little bit." Doug said bluntly.
"What!" Delilah seethed trying not to yell.
"Only for a little while." Doug repeated. "We let him stay, give him a chance to heal. That boy had to have Cruella has a parental figure. And we can help him come over any PTSD or anything like that. After that we can help him find an orphanage to go to."
"But can we? We would have to buy food the pups can't eat, clothes, he certainly can't sleep on the couch every night, and humans are usually a handful, especially children. And what about his schooling? We are already tight on money as it is."
"Yes, but this is a human that can actually understand us. And one more mouth to feed won't be that bad. And school? Honey if what the kids have told us is true, then that is one of the last things we need to worry about. But of course, we'll only do this if you agree." Doug offered.
Delilah stopped to think again. She knows at this point as a medical professional and as a mother, she can't just kick the boy out. Well, they could…but she wouldn't be able to take the disappointment from the kids. (And her own guilt) It's clear they like the boy. She's still hesitant of course, mainly because she wants to talk to the boy herself, but she wanted to do two more things before making any final decisions.
"Okay. We can let him sleep here for tonight. I want both of us to talk to him before anything final is decided." Doug nodded agreeing that would be best. "And I want to do one other thing."
(Back with the pups)
"What do you think they're going to say?" Dolly asked.
"I honestly don't know. That was a lot to throw at them. But what else could we do short of shutting him out?" Dylan responded.
"Do not worry my siblings. I see good things are still yet to come." Deepak said.
"Are you trying to become the reverse Dante now?" Dawkins joked.
"I'm just trying to keep everyone positive." Deepak said. He really hopped Hunter could stay. He wanted to help him.
"I'm just hoping we made the right choice." Dylan sighed. They waited around for a couple more minutes before their parents finally came back in.
The four pups looked at their parents waiting for them to say anything.
"Alright kids, your mother and I went over it and decided a couple things. Before we decide anything concrete, we want to talk to Hunter first thing in the morning." They all nodded expecting their parents to say something like that. "Second, we want to make sure the family is okay with him possibly staying. We know most of you seemed to be okay with it, but we want to make sure. Dylan, Dolly, please go grab as many siblings as possible. We know we can't get everyone right now."
The two nodded quietly leaving the kitchen to get their siblings. They know they want to get the older ones; they would have the most, varied answers. Most of the younger ones would probably be okay with the decision either way. It didn't take them long to find most of them either. Dylan found Dante, Triple D, and DJ. While Dolly got Da Vinci, the Dimitri's, Diesel, and Delgado. They could have picked more but they thought they would be enough for now. They didn't want to put too much pressure on too many of the younger ones. Not to mention the are still the five sleeping with Hunter, which spoke volumes for them.
They thought it was a good mix of the younger and older pups. They went back to the kitchen explaining what was going on. Dylan and Dolly knew most of them would be completely okay with Hunter staying if their parents allowed it. The only two they weren't sure about were Dante and Da Vinci. They have been quiet the whole day ever since Hunter showed up. Neither of them really knew what those two were thinking. Dante did help Hunter in the attic, so he may be okay with it? Da Vinci is really the wild card right now.
Once everyone was in the dining room Delilah spoke first. "So, I'm sure as you all know, your father and I asked you all to come down to talk about Hunter. And if he will be staying with us temporarily." She started.
"But before we make any decisions, we wanted to hear from some of you what you thought. We want all of you and the other pups to be okay with this as well." Doug continued.
"Aside from you four;' Delilah said pointing to Deepak, Dawkins, Dylan, and Dolly, they more or less made their opinions clear, 'what do the rest of you think?" The rest of the siblings all looked at each other not sure who should speak first. Surprisingly the first one to speak was Dante.
"He isn't trying to dognap us again. I know I've been quiet today; I've been thinking about if he would stay or not. And… I think I'm okay with it. I saw him in the attic after getting him out of the box. That was dark even for me. I sense this would be the best course of action."
'Wow, Dante making a positive prediction? This night is full of surprises.' Dylan thought. Well, that was one pup down.
It seemed that Dante speaking first broke the ice and the others started to voice their support for Hunter staying as well.
"Does he like digging?" In hindsight Diesel may not have been the best pup to bring. No offense to him but he doesn't exactly understand how serious the situation is. Or he does and wants Hunter to stay regardless. It can be hard to tell what that pup is thinking aside from digging.
"I'm okay with it." "Me too." "Me three." The Dimitri's all agreed. Having been street pups themselves, they knew they didn't want Hunter to live through that. Not exactly the best experience. While not knowing the full story they know he must be having a hard time if he had to come here for help.
"He's seemed to have changed. I say at least give him a chance." DJ agreed thinking back to when Hunter started to talk to them in the living room. He seemed really nice once you got to know him.
"I think it would be fun to have him around." Delgado voiced, wondering how fast the kid can run. And if he knows how to skate.
"Triple D? How do you three feel?" Delilah asked. "It would be an extra mouth to feed and some other supplies to be needed."
"That's" "Totally." "Understandable." They replied in their Triple D way. They want to help Hunter as much as their older siblings. Even if they may have to work a little more. Which it may or may not come to. True as far as food goes their parents cover that, but Triple D has had to pitch in a few times when money gets tight. Like when Dawkins destroyed multiple floors trying to build an indoor rocket elevator.
Everyone looked at Da Vinci, the painter having remained silent. Most likely wanting to hear everyone else speak before she said anything.
She sighed lifting herself to be above the table. "I'll be honest everyone. I don't think I can be comfortable with Hunter staying with us. Or if I ever will. I don't have anything against him personally, if anything I do feel sympathy for him. I know it's…complicated for me. But I don't want to be the reason he can't stay either. So I don't care either way if he stays or goes. But if he does stay, just don't expect me to be around him much." She spoke getting her point across. Before anyone could say anything, she walked out of the room most likely to go get some rest.
Dylan tried to stop her, but Da Vinci gave him a look that said to leave her alone for now. He complied knowing she needed space. At least she was…. sort of okay with Hunter.
Everyone sat at the table for a moment not sure where to go from here.
"All of you are excused. I think your father and I have heard everything we needed." Delilah said. No one argued and they all left to go do their own thing and relax for the night.
"Looks like Hunter may be staying." Dolly said to Dylan.
"I don't want to start assuming, but I think your right." Dylan agreed. They went into the living room deciding they should stay in there in case anything was to happen. Dylan went to the big chair while Dolly going to the bed on the shelf above the chair.
Meanwhile their parents waited for everyone to leave taking a moment to clear their thoughts. Delilah thought she should take care of something, or someone, else first.
"I'm going to go talk to her." Delilah said referring to Da Vinci.
"Do you want me to go with you?" Doug asked.
"Not right now honey. Both of us may overwhelm her. Will you take the bag to the washing room? I would like for him to have dryer clothes when he wakes up." She asked her husband. He nodded grabbing the bag. She also wanted to talk to Da Vinci first, because she tended to be more open to her than Doug.
Delilah walked out to the living room checking on their current guest again. Still fast asleep. Before she could leave to see where Da Vinci went however, a voice suddenly spoke.
"Hi mom." Damian spoke almost making his mother jump. The part that caught her most off guard was that Damian was not on top of the couch but standing right next to her! He must have been near the door.
"Oh! Damian, you scared me half to death." She whispered. "What are you doing awake?"
"I woke up when Dolly got the bag earlier. The others were trying to go through so quickly they didn't notice I was awake." He explained. "I may have overheard what everyone was talking about." He admitted. Which wasn't necessarily a bad thing. But he knows that eavesdropping is something they are not supposed to do. Speaking of which, she looked over to where her oldest children are sleeping both trying (and failing) to look like they were asleep. Delilah sighed knowing there wasn't a problem for them overhearing. They were just curious what their siblings thought about the situation.
"And what do you think about what we were talking about?" Delilah asked laying down to be eye level with her son.
Damian paused for a second thinking about what he wanted to say. "I want Hunter to stay. He helped us, we should help him back. Right?" He asked looking at his mother eye to eye.
Delilah sighed wishing that the world could be that simple. "In a perfect world Damian, that is how it would go. But what about when Hunter was trying to dognap us?" She asked her son. She thought getting an opinion from one of her youngest, may give her another perspective. Children can often see things adults often miss.
"Well… I don't know. All I know is that he didn't have contact with anyone, not even that crazy Aunt, for like six months, and then when he finally gets home, he was told to try to capture us again. And when he found out what that crazy lady's plan was, he wanted to stop her. He never actually wanted to hurt us."
Delilah thought about what her pup just said. Dylan and Dolly had explained about Hunter apparently being trapped in that container for half a year, with nothing but kibble to eat. (That incident alone deserved its own discussion) He really did need help, didn't he? She also thought about how he saved her youngest pup. If it wasn't for Hunter…she doesn't want to think what could have happened if he wasn't there to save her and the rest of the family. In a way they almost owed their lives to him, even if he was part of the reason, they were in that situation to begin with. But like she just told her son, nothing is ever that simple. She looked back at Damian as he spoke again.
"Can he stay mom? Please?" Damian asked giving her his pleading eyes.
"I can't make any promises Dami. Just go back to bed for now. I need to go find Da Vinci."
"I saw her go upstairs." Damian yawned climbing back up the couch with his mother's help.
"Thank you, sweetie. And while I can't say right now if Hunter is staying, I am very proud that you can see the good in people. You and all your siblings are so kind." She praised giving him a kiss on the head. "I love you Damian. Sleep tight." She said walking out of the room. She looked at Hunter once last time before leaving to go find Da Vinci. If she went upstairs, then more than likely she was up on the roof. Her and many of the pups like to go up there if they ever need a private moment. Or in Dylan's case to use his telescope.
Walking up to the roof she looked around seeing her daughter sitting just a few feet away staring at the stars.
"Room for one more?" She asked making her presence known.
"Mom? What are you doing up here?"
"I could ask you the same thing. You didn't really think me, or your father, wouldn't come looking for you after what just happened did you?"
"Hehe. I guess not. Sorry for making things so complicated."
"Da Vinci… we've talked about this. Nothing about what happened before you came here was your fault. It is completely understandable you feel like you do."
"It's just…everyone is being so accepting of Hunter, even after everything he did. Course being trapped with him did shed some light on things, but it doesn't change the fact he still did it." The painter had to hold back some tears leaning into her mother for comfort. Delilah gave her a small hug in return.
"You're right. It doesn't. But even you said you have nothing against him. Sounds to me that isn't what is bothering you." Da Vinci didn't respond which confirmed what Delilah said. "I know you don't like being around humans very often. But if anything, you and Hunter may have more in common than you would think. I still haven't made up my mind if he is staying with us temporarily or not. But if he does, I only ask you try to talk to him at least once. It could be beneficial for both of you. You don't have to if you don't want to."
"… Okay. Thanks mom."
"Any time dear." She said giving her daughter another hug. "Now how about we go inside? It's getting late." Da Vinci nodded walking back to the door. Delilah following right behind. Walking back downstairs she went to the living room checking on their guest on last time. With Hunter still asleep, she went to go sleep on the other side of the room so she could talk to Hunter first thing in the morning. Doug had the same idea as he walked in a few minutes later walking up and laying down next to Delilah.
"We really do have wonderful kids." Doug commented. "Wanting to help those they can."
"Yes, we really do. Let's get some rest now dear." Delilah chuckled. The two parents fell asleep tonight's events, along with work, making them very tired.
(The Next Morning)
Hunter woke up to the light hitting his face from the window. Rubbing his eyes, he looked around, having to take a moment to remember where he was. He's still in the Dalmatian house, so either the parents don't know he is here yet, or they are actually letting him stay. He tried to get up from the couch, but found there were a couple of problems. That being the balls of fur surrounding him. Apparently, some of the pups decided to keep him company, Domino sleeping on top of his stomach, and could tell at least on pup was sleeping… on his hair?
He also realized that he didn't have any nightmares. (Assuming he was actually awake this time) He was kind of expecting it with all the stress of waiting for the pups parents to come home, but it didn't happen. He tried to turn his head hoping not to knock the pup down sleeping on his hair. He was surprised to see the living room so empty minus those sleeping with him, and four others. He could see Dylan snoring on a yellow chair across the room, Dolly sleeping on a bed above him. Looking back next to the chair he saw, their parents. Both still asleep.
Hunter started to slightly panic in the inside not ready to face the possible rejection. He wanted to desperately leave the room, but also didn't want to wake those on the couch.
'Dang it what do I do?' He thought. 'Maybe wake up Domino? Then I just have to move whichever pup is on my head.' He couldn't see Damian or the twins, so he had no idea those three were also there.
'Then again I'm still here. That's got to mean something right?' Before he could do anything however, he heard someone else starting to wake up across the room.
Looking over he saw Dolly starting to wake up. 'Oh thank goodness.' He thought.
He watched Dolly expertly jump down from the bed somehow nit making a sound.
"Dolly! Dolly!" Hunter seethed trying not to wake the others.
"Oh morning Hunter. Sleep well?"
"Yeah I actually did." Hunter responded before remembering what his current predicament . "I'm kind of trapped by these two. Can you help me?" He asked pointing to Domino and the pup on his head.
"Haha. Yeah one sec." Dolly reached over picking up the pup in his fur first. Surprised to see it was Dorothy. His hair must be really soft. Dolly carefully moved her to the other side of the couch the small pup rolling over to get comfy again. She then did the same to Domino the pup stirring a little before snuggling up to his little sister.
"You now next time you can move them yourself." She joked.
"I didn't want to wake them up." Hunter explained.
"Well they're the ones that wanted to stay with you instead of going upstairs so that would be on them." Dolly reasoned. "Plus all the others will be waking up pretty soon."
"Oh. I'll keep that in mind." He looked over past Dolly to see if the parents were still asleep. "So I noticed your folks are back." He said addressing the elephant in the room.
"Yeah. Got home not long after you fell asleep. Me and the others had a lot of explaining to do."
Hunter frowned not liking the sound of that. As much as he feared facing their parents, he didn't mean for the others to talk to them on their own.
"So, what did they say?" Hunter asked.
"They want to talk to you first. Make sure everything we told them was true most likely."
"Oh. I guess that makes since. I hope you didn't cause too much trouble."
"Dude you were asleep." Dolly said in a deadpan voice.
"You know what I mean." Hunter said looking around the room. "Hey. Have you seen my duffle bag?"
"Oh right. Dad took your clothes to be dried. We noticed that the bag was a little damp. When we took into the living room."
"And to make sure I wasn't hiding anything, I'm sure." Hunter sighed. Not like he could blame them. And he didn't have anything to hide so it's not like it mattered either way.
"Well…. don't get mad but me and Dylan actually did that first. When you were in the attic." The two started to walk to the kitchen.
"Can't say I blame you." Even if he wanted to be mad, he felt it would be selfish to do so. This family has already done so much for him. "What do you guys have for breakfast? I'm a little hungry."
"With how fast you ate that sandwich yesterday I believe it." Dolly laughed leading him to the kitchen. "I don't think we have many things aside from peanut butter. I hope that's okay?"
'Given the situation I don't think I can complain. Not that I was going too.' Hunter though before speaking. "Yeah that sounds fine. You wouldn't happen to have any fruit to go with it do you?" He was hoping to eat a little more since he held the sandwich down this time. It was nice to eat something other than granola bars.
"I think we have some bananas. Just ordered them." Dolly explained as they walked in the kitchen.
"So do you guys' order everything online?" Hunter asked. He was started to wonder about that. The family has so many things but lived on their own.
"Yep. Everything from kibble to chew toys and in-between. We can't carry cash around, and aside from you, humans can't understand us. So, we have to have everything ordered online."
What Dolly said made Hunter stop and think for a moment. "Wait, can anyone learn to speak dog?"
"Jury is still out on that. You're a very special case." A new voice spoke. The two looked over and saw none other than Delilah standing in the doorway.
"Morning mom!" Dolly said as she handed Hunter his sandwich and banana. She made it while they were talking.
"M-morning Mrs. Dalmatian." Hunter stumbled thinking she was still asleep. He almost dropped his sandwich from just the nervousness alone.
"And a good morning to you too." Delilah said. She said it in a very dry tone. Not hostile, but not warm either. Since she had some time to think about last night and sleep, she is a lot calmer with Hunter being here. She's still keeping an eye out in case of any danger but right now she knows Hunter is very nervous.
"Sorry if we woke you up. Hunter here is apparently an earlier riser."
"I think that's just because I went to bed at a decent time." He sheepishly admitted. He normally would sleep in till nine in the morning. Right now, it was seven-thirty.
"Yes well, I'm glad you were able to get some sleep." Delilah nodded before cutting to the point. "Hunter, before Doug and I leave for work we wanted to talk to you. And preferably before the pups wake up." Hunter gulped. Knowing this was coming did not help his nerves.
"O-o-o-of course." Hunter nodded.
"Please there is no reason to be scared. We just need to clear some things up." Delilah reassured him. He more she saw him as scared and nervous as he was, the closer to a decision she was making. "Dolly, can you wake up your brothers and sisters and go upstairs? The others should be waking up soon."
"Sure mom." Dolly said walking out of the room. But not before giving Hunter a reassuring smile to help him calm down. Delilah motioned for him to follow her back to the living room. Dolly quickly woke up Dylan and had him help carry their five other siblings. The two left without another word leaving Hunter alone with their parents. Doug apparently woken up by Delilah.
Hunter started to slightly shake trying not to panic. Doug and Delilah could see the sandwich shaking in his hand.
"Please sit on the sofa if you need to. Don't let us stop you from eating." Their dad kindly suggested. He seemed a lot more…welcoming? Calmer maybe? Then the mom. No offense to her. Hunter also just realized he never asked the other what their names are. He was just having mistake after mistake apparently.
Regardless he did has suggested sitting on the couch and taking a few bites of his food. Remembering not to inhale it this time. "T-thank you sir."
"Oh, please call me Doug. And my wife's name is Delilah."
"O-okay." Hunter replied. He thought he would have to ask for introductions.
The parents and Hunter just sat there all three trying to think of where to start. Delilah finally spoke after a few awkward minutes. Mostly giving Hunter time to eat.
"Hunter, while the kids explained most of what happened, we wanted to hear your side of the story. Why did you run from home?" She asked.
He guessed that was a fair question. Make sure the stories match. He really didn't want to talk about it but if it would gain their trust…
"Cru-That woman as you know is in jail. She was my guardian and paid for the house I lived in. The other day the police came to the house to look for any evidence against her. They told me I was going to be taken to any relatives I knew of, but I don't have any others. I knew that meant I was…am an orphan now so I ran. Packed some stuff and left." He started.
"But why did you run?" Doug asked. Hunter thought for a moment thinking of how to answer.
"That woman is all over the news. As soon as people find out I'm related to her…I doubt anyone would want me."
'Okay so the kids weren't kidding about him not naming Cruella. And has a fear of not finding a home, that explains a lot.' Delilah thought. She also realized that Hunter just admitted that he is on the run from the police. Not for anything technically illegal but that could be a problem.
"Why… and please do not take this the wrong way, did you come here then?" Delilah asked. Hunter looked down at his legs unable to look either of them in the eyes. To him it sounded like neither of them, or at least Delilah, did not want him here. So why were they pretending to care?
'Just like her.' He thought. But he answered the question the best he could. "A-at first I didn't know where to go. I just started running and ended up on Dalmatian Street without even realizing it at first. I-I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask for help si-since you and your family are the only ones I could go to for help. At least for a little bit." He answered truthfully. Once again, he was having to hold back tears. Trying not to make a scene in front of the two parents.
He had to take a few deep breaths, trying to calm himself. When suddenly Delilah suddenly spoke again.
"Okay one more quick question. W-hy do you think we should HELP YOU?!" The mother suddenly barked loudly causing Hunter to jump further into the couch!
"Huh?!" Hunter screamed shocked. He pulled himself up, so he was standing on the couch. Despite standing above the two dogs, he still felt like he was trapped. He heartrate started beating fast as he looked at Delilah. The mother looking like she was ready to fight.
"Why do you think we would help a USELESS boy like you?! You tried to hurt out family!" The more she spoke the angrier she looked.
"I didn't know! I honestly didn't know! If I did, I would have stopped it!" Hunter was about to try to jump off the couch when suddenly-
"Hunter? Hunter! Are you okay?!" Doug asked. Hunter looked over at the father of the house seeing him still sitting in the same spot as if nothing just happened. He looked over to Delilah but instead of the look of anger he saw just a second ago, she looked just as confused and…concerned? That didn't make since. What just happened?
"W-what?" Hunter asked coming back to his senses. He looked at himself seeing that he was standing on top of the couch, probably looking ridiculous.
"What happened Hunter? You look like you saw a ghost?" Delilah asked. One second the boy was sitting there nervous but otherwise fine, the next he suddenly froze in place with fear in his eyes before trying to run off!
"I-I don't know. I-I think I blacked out for a second. What was the question?" He asked sitting back down. He really didn't want to tell them that he thought Delilah was about to attack him.
'Blacked out?!' The parents thought. He clearly looked like he saw something. Maybe he imagined it? Suddenly they both remembered what their children said about his possible symptoms for ASD. Being a nurse and a firedog they both knew how to keep an eye out for possible symptoms of stress or worse. If that was the case then…
Both parents looked at each other nodding their heads. They had honestly more or less made their decision. But this conversation, short as it was, is what sealed the deal. They could not in good conscious leave Hunter to fend for himself.
"I'm sorry Hunter. I imagine this must be difficult for you to talk about." Delilah said. "Is it okay if I feel your head really quick? I want to make sure you aren't running a fever."
Hunter just nodded still processing what happened. He felt a paw against his head for a few seconds as Delilah checked if he was feeling unwell. He almost forgot she is a nurse. The whole time he looked over to Doug's direction avoiding eye contact with Delilah.
"Hmmm. You don't feel like you would have a fever. Do you feel okay?"
'Depends on your definition of okay.' Hunter thought. "I don't feel sick." He answered truthfully.
"Alright. Then back to the conversation." Doug said getting back on track. Hunter nodded taking another deep breath. He saw the look the two gave each other. They were about to tell him to leave weren't they? There was no way they were actually letting him stay. Should he go ahead and just tell them he can go grab his stuff? Say goodbye to the pups? No that would take too-
Suddenly Hunter was broken out of his thoughts when Doug spoke again. "What food do you normally eat?" Doug asked. Originally they were going to ask about him possible being at Constantine's house but that would be for later. Clearly this talk was making the poor boy feel worse.
"W-what?" Hunter asked caught off guard. "Come again?"
"Well if you are going to stay here for a little while we need to feed you. And we don't want you eating kibble." Doug said smiling. Was this real?
"Y-y-you mean you're letting me-" He stuttered not sure he believed his own ears. Both parents nodded yes before he could even finish the question. "But why?" He asked very confused. He of course happed they would say yes but he didn't think thy actually would!
Both had to stop and think of how to word their reasoning. "Delilah and I… understand you are going through a hard time right now. Something that no child your age should." Doug started.
"And as some of the pups mentioned last night, we know that you have been dealing with nightmares…among other things. We want to help you get better." Delilah added. Hunter started to have tears going down his eyes starting to wonder if he was actually dreaming again.
"E-e-even after everything I've done?" He asked no longer able to hold back tears having to wipe them away.
"We came to an agreement that you should not be held at fault for what happened that night. That evil woman lied to you. And it is clear you want to make it up to us. This is also our way of repaying you for saving Dorothy. And our family." Delilah assured. "But we may have to have another discussion later. It doesn't have to be right now but there are some other things I feel that we should talk about." She added.
"T-t-t-t-thank you. You are t-t-too kind." Hunter said barely able to talk now. This was actually happening. Granted he doesn't know how long he will be staying. He told Dylan and Dolly just so he could figure things out, but how long would that take him?
"Of course dear. Is it okay if we give you a hug?" Delilah asked. She's noticed how jumpy he's been and doesn't want to cause any unnecessary trouble. Still trying to calm down the crying Hunter could only nod as both Doug and Delilah came up to either side of him to give him comfort. Hunter in response started to pet their backs to give him some way to return the hug.
"Now about that grocery list." Doug said afterwards. Hunter finally calmed down enough that they were able to make a list of basic foods and other essentials they would need. Hunter tried to offer that he could buy them himself with the money he brought but Doug and Delilah told him to save that for now.
A few moments later all the pups started coming down to get ready for the day. But before going to the kitchen they all stopped in front of the living room entrance seeing Hunter and their parents talking about what food they would need to get him. Dylan and Dolly both standing in the front.
Suddenly Delilah looked over and saw the pups looking at them. She laughed alerting Hunter and Doug who looked over to see what she saw.
"Come on in everyone. Your father and I have an announcement."
"So…how did the talk go?" Dolly asked.
"Everything okay I hope?" Dylan added.
"Does Mr. Funny Face get to stay?!" DeeDee and Dizzy asked running up to Hunter sitting next to him.
"Yeah does he?" Damian asked. Him and Domino also joining the twins.
Delilah looked at Doug who nodded. Giving her the signal that she could tell them the good news.
"We have decided that Hunter will stay with us as long as he needs." She confirmed. As expected all the pups started cheering and jumping around the room. Many suddenly jumping on Hunter's lap to officially welcome him or give him a hug. Domino, Damian, DeeDee, Dizzy, and Dorothy almost tackling him. Hunter meanwhile looked around at all the exited faces wondering what he did to get here. Not even trying to hold back the tears of joy going down his face. But even though he was happy, there was another part of him not so certain about this.
'Why do I feel so bad about this? They are letting me stay, which is what I wanted, but…do I really deserve this?' He thought to himself. He was happy that he is staying, he really was. But there was still a part of him doubtful that this was the best option. Not for himself really but rather…for the Dalmatian family.
"-ter. Earth to Hunter you still there?" Hunter was once again broken out of his thoughts this time by Dolly waving her paw in front of him.
"Huh…oh sorry I just got lost in thought. What were you saying?" By this point many of the pups had heading to the dining room for breakfast some still lingering in the living room. He quickly wiped away his tears looking at Dolly.
"I was asking if you were excited! I thought you would be happier." Dolly commented. He looked around at the few pups still in the room, plus their parents, and smiled.
"I am happy. Just, still processing everything I guess?"
"That's understandable." Dawkins said walking up to them. "Many of us ourselves weren't sure what Mom and Doug would say." He chuckled.
Hunter nodded in understanding before looking over to see one of the two pups he didn't get to see very much yesterday. Dante. Before anything he got up and walked over to said pup sitting down next to him.
"Dante, right?" He asked making sure he didn't get him mixed up.
"Y-yes." Dante said caught of guard that the attention was suddenly on him.
"I know it doesn't really make up for it but…I'm sorry about that night. When I first came back and all."
"Oh. Your still hung up on that?" Dante asked not sure what else to say.
"W-well I could tell I kind of scared you at first so I wanted to apologize and all that."
"No offense Hunter, but you lost most of your scary factor when Dylan got us to escape my tickling you." Dawkins slightly chuckled. Didn't see that often.
"No one is going to let me forget that are they?" Hunter sighed.
"Nope!" Dylan said from the side.
"But in all seriousness, apology accepted. I practically gift wrapped myself to be captured so I don't really hold it against you."
"And what does that mean?" Delilah asked raising an eyebrow. Causing Dawkins, Dylan, and Dolly to flinch. By the time their parents had gotten there when Hunter came back, the Dylan and Dolly had already taken care of him. As such, they kind of left the part out where Dante let himself get captured.
"Uhhhh….I sense that breakfast is ready!" Dante said running into the dinning room. Dylan and Dolly following him. Hunter decided to go by their example and also ran to the other room.
Despite everything seeming to go against him just the day before, everything seemed to be looking up for Hunter.
(Meanwhile: in the local police station)
Officer Pearl, a police horse, walked down the halls of the station. Normally she would oversee the area with the other animals, but she has been keeping a close eye on the stations most recent inmate. She apparently had many crimes against her, the most outrageous one being kidnapping the entire Dalmatian family. She would do everything in her power to make sure this woman would not escape. "Not while on my watch." She said to herself.
She walked up to the cell at the very end of the hall making her first check of the day. There sat Cruella Devil almost completely still with the exception of occasionally running her finger across the wall.
"Oh it's you." Cruella said looking at Pearl. The horse came by at least twice a day apparently making sure she was still trapped in here. At this point she just liked to tease the old horse. "I'll get out of here. And when I do, those puppies and that BOY will be mine!" She threatened. Staring to laugh just to make a point. She seemed to have snapped since the night she was arrested.
Pearl just huffed in response not even bothering to say anything in return. It's not like the woman can understand her anyways. 'Crazy lady.' She thought walking back the way she came. How she has not been arrested sooner Pearl would never know. Although speaking of that boy, Hunter, apparently, he was announced missing after running from the police. Maybe she should go check on the Dalmatian family and ask if they have seen anything.
As she walked out Cruella's laugh echoed down the hall and didn't stop until the door was closed behind her.
End Chapter 3
Aaaaaaaaaaand done! I've said this before and I'll say it again. This chapter was much longer than I thought it would be. Granted only by a few pages but still. The more I write this story, the more I'm liking it myself. It has evolved so much from what it was originally going to be. In fact while working on this chapter I couldn't help but think:
'You know this was originally supposed to a 1 to 2 chapter story about Hunter moving in the Dalmatians and having fun adventures with them and end with him basically getting adopted. And now I somehow ended up writing a mental health recovery/found family fic….How did this happen?'
Well past me I think it started when I decided I wanted to have the first chapter focus on him going to the family for help instead of already being there, then started to research about ASD and PTSD to write his character better. Went back and added the nightmare scene in chapter 1. (Yeah originally that was not there until I was almost done with the chapter.) And the chapter got long enough I realized it would have to be a two part story, and then that chapter got super long because of introducing all the pups….where was going with this? I had a point?
Oh right. My point is this story has become so much more than what I originally intended and I'm glad so many of you like it. And I hope this chapter meets the same reception. Cause I'll be honest I had a little trouble writing this one. A big reason is of course because of college. But aside from that I wasn't entirely sure where I wanted the direction of this chapter to go at first. The parents specifically were hard for me to write. I went through so many ideas in my head of how they would or should react to Hunter. And I feel this chapter will be a make or break for a lot of people reading this. There was a reason I made the parents coming home its own chapter…other than these chapters being so long.
As it was explained in the story, the parents didn't entirely trust Hunter (Still don't trust him completely off course). Delilah specifically if you didn't catch that. But they can tell when someone may pose a threat to their kids, and Hunter no longer poses a threat to them. Not only because he came to them out of desperation, but also because he helped save their family. Which is why I ultimately went the direction I did. Doug was pretty easy to write as he has always seemed more laid back. When DeeDee and Dizzy brought a human to the house in the first episode he was worried, but ended up trusting Dylan in what he was doing. (But still keeps a close eye during the rest of the episode.)
Delilah on the other hand was harder for me to write. Since she has had more of a history with Cruella even if until the final episode of the show, all she heard was stories. Would she be angry at Hunter? Reject him? Or even talk to him? Some of the first ideas I had included her trying to kick him out before the others could explain anything. She was going to be much harsher. But I realized that would actually be out of character for her by a lot. Especially since they left on good terms at the end of the show, I felt like she would at least hear Hunter and especially her kids, out first. And then of course there was the moments with Da Vinci and Damian. Da Vinci will have a bigger role later in the story.
And of course Hunter. This is the first chapter where he was not a part of most of it. Which I thought would be a nice change of pace for this chapter. I wanted to focus on the parents this chapter to get across why they would let Hunter stay. Hunter himself still doesn't seem to understand why the family is being so nice to him. Constantly expecting the worst outcome. And of course he had another little episode having a…I guess you would call it a daymare? While he is able to talk to Doug and Delilah, right now he doesn't really like being around adults. Pay attention to what he thought Delilah was saying/going to say. Sound familiar? All this being said I decided to not do the whole, Hunter overhearing part of a conversation and running away because of it, plot….yet. I may have something in the works but not this soon. Right now I want to focus on him making actual family bonds. Which so far has started with Dante. Don't worry there is going to be more between them. I just wanted to get the apology out of the way cause there really shouldn't have been a reason for him not to.
And yes Cruella will be in this story. Why? Cause Hunter has to face his fears eventually am I right?
Also after this chapter don't expect the rest to super long. Espically since many of them are going to be Hunter hanging out with different members of the family. I'm not used to writing stories this long that isn't a Loud Hearts chapter and even then. Like I said before, this story is becoming so much more than I planned.
Hunter: So now what? Does the chapter just end there?
Nope! Now we get to read and respond to the reviews! *hands him a list*
Hunter: Uhhh. Okay I guess.
Fanfiction reviews:
Yellowpikmin88: Yep. Hunter will have a lot of help now. And yes, it will be a long road. And Thank you.
NickXtreme12: Thank you! I hope you liked this chapter as well. And the pups can make anyone feel better when they aren't running everything over.
Brody R. E. Hall: Thank you! I think this story is pretty Pawsome myself.
Zoey: Thank you for letting me know it was happening again. It hasn't seemed to happen since that I now off but if it does I also post on AO3.
Mary Likes Stuff: Yeah I agree he did deserve a lot more. At least a ride home. And thank you for the encouragement. and the appreciation for the research.
princeartemis900: Well it has continued! I hope you like it. And thank you for reading.
AO3 reviews:
SoO1c: Thank you once again. And yes Hunter gets to stay! And don't worry. Those adventures/moments will be coming soon.
DanTheOwl: Thank you! And off course I'm going to use the characters to my advantage! Course I already kinda said this on AO3 but dang I thought the Loud House had a lot of characters!
Marylikesstuff: Thank you for leaving reviews on both sites! I'm assuming you the same Mary from the fanfiction review. Like I said before I really hoped people liked the attic scene. And definitely going for the feels.
Chirithyfan2020: Is three days later soon enough? (From when your review was posted of course)
And once again thank you everyone so much! You have no idea how much these reviews and encouragement mean to me! Please leave a review and follow the story. 7 is out!
