The Secret Life of Brian
by LDEJRuff
Chapter 5 - A New Home for Vinny
Later that day, back at the Flannigan house, while the two dogs were having tea and dog biscuits, Brian had told Vinny his story about why he left the Griffins for Dylan.
"Wait a minute, Brian," Vinny responded. "You mean to tell me that you faked your own death so you can take care of your son?"
"That's what I said," Brian replied.
"But Brian," Vinny shrugged, "think about the family that needed you, your friends. Think about your home town."
"I don't think they need me any longer," Brian disagreed. "Besides, now that I left the Griffins, I go by the name 'Brian Flannigan' now."
"But Tracy's still out there somewhere," Vinny replied. "She may still be alive."
"I dunno, Vin," Brian said, unsure. "The police are still searching everywhere for a shred of evidence that may lead to Tracy's whereabouts. I fear that she may be dead."
"Well, if that's the case," Vinny replied, "and Dylan needs a parent to take care of him, and to take him to school and work, then the Griffins are gonna need a new family dog."
Upon hearing these words, he was reminded of what he last said about his former family before he left Quahog.
"I'm sure that when you and your family do get a new dog," his words echoed inside his mind, "you'll give to him or her what you gave me: a wonderful life."
After being reminded of those words he said, he took out a photo of the Griffins, which he had in his billfold sometime before he left. He knew that something had to be done, and he looked at his brother.
"You're right, Vinny," Brian agreed, nodding. "You're going to need an owner. No. You're going to need five owners."
"You mean, they're a family of five?"
Brian nodded. "When they do go into the pet store, and they see you, or you see them, just promise me one thing."
"Anything, Brian," Vinny replied.
"Don't reveal to them or the city of Quahog that I'm still alive. I want you to keep my existence a secret."
"That does seem pretty hard," Vinny said, unsure, "but whatever you say, Brian. You got yourself a deal."
With that, Brian shook Vinny's paw.
The following morning, both dogs were at the bus terminal.
"Okay, Vinny," Brian began, "you got your iPhone?"
"Got it," Vinny replied, getting his phone out.
"Good," Brian said, relieved. "We should exchange numbers so we can keep track of what's going on."
With that, both dogs gave each other their phones so they can type their numbers in.
"Okay, it's done," Vinny said.
"Good," Brian replied.
The dogs then traded back their phones.
"Well, I guess this is it," Vinny said.
"Yeah," Brian agreed. "Hey, Vin?"
"Yeah?"
"Be careful out there."
"Thanks, Brian."
With that, both dogs gave each other a hug, then let go before Vinny went inside the bus to Quahog.
As Vinny went on, Brian smiled at his brother.
Vinny smiled back as the bus rolled away.
When the bus arrived in Quahog, Vinny quickly eyed the pet store and went inside so he could find a cage to stay in.
Many days had passed until it was the one-month anniversary of the tragic event. When the Griffins went inside, he quickly noticed them.
"All right, guys," Lois began, "time to find a new family dog."
As she, Peter and Meg went up to the dog cages, Vinny was so happy, his tail started wagging.
"That must be them," he thought. "The family that Brian was in before he left." Vinny then started to get serious. "Okay, Vinny," he continued. "Try to act natural and get their attention."
Upon inspection, Lois shrugged.
"I don't know how to choose between all these dogs."
"Hey, you, green pants," Vinny called to Peter, getting his attention. "I hear you're looking for a dog or some'n."
"Oh, finally," Peter said, walking to Vinny's cage, "someone who sounds like they went to college. Hi, I'm Peter."
"Vinny."
"Oh, Vinny, like the Pooh. Hey, that's kinda cool. So, what's your story?"
"Well, you know, I'm just a regular guy: You throw a stick, maybe I bring it back. Maybe I bring back an iPhone that fell off a truck."
"Well, let me ask you this: What's your stance on the music all the kids are listening to today?"
"I'm a little surprised you even call it music," Vinny replied, rather serious. Smiling then, he continued, "So, what do you say? You want me as your dog?"
"Yeah, I think I do!" With that, Peter let Vinny out of his cage. "Hey, just out of curiosity, what breed are you?"
Vinny answered, "Actually, I'm a pussyhound."
"Really?" Peter replied, excited. "All right!"
"That just means I'm one sixteenth cat," Vinny informed.
"Oh," Peter replied, unimpressed, "I wish you hadn't told me that."
"Well, I did it, Brian," Vinny thought, smiling. "I got the attention of the Griffins, and am now their family dog."