Vincent: By all appearances, I decided to sleep in the bathtub last night. After changing into... whose clothes are these? Mmm, the bathtub suddenly becomes a much more intriguing sleeping space when the alternative is getting up and walking around.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, there you are... why are you laying in the bathtub? Here, you may need this coffee more than I do, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Judging by the blankets, and other accoutrement, I'm guessing I slept here.
Poppy (to Vincent): That's really odd, honey. I mean, I slept on the couch, you had the whole bed to yourself.
Vincent (to Poppy): Don't I know it. We over did it a little last night, didn't we? I mean... when did I change into these?
Poppy (to Vincent): I'd say we did, honey. Most of last night is a blur. But seeing as how I woke up wearing your pajamas... I can only guess. Someone's knocking on the door. I'll be right back, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm going to try to extract myself from here...
Mouse (to Poppy): Hey Poppy. you're here?
Poppy (to Mouse): Of course, I'm here, honey. Where else would I be?
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh um, I don't know. I keep forgetting that you're staying here... Is Vincent around?
Poppy (to Mouse): He's currently laying in the bathtub fully clothed... I'm going to make some breakfast.
Mouse (to Vincent): Hey, little brother. Fun night?
Vincent (to Mouse): Hi, sweetie. I don't think so. Of course, I'm a little fuzzy on when exactly I decided the bathtub makes for a good bed... And I'm still not sure what the hell I'm wearing?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, then allow me to clear up the mystery for you... it was when you decided to leave this message on my phone...
Vincent (to Mouse): I left you a message?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes, at 3am... It's a little garbled... something about Poppy leaving you & you don't want to her to go. And, that you really screwed the pooch this time... I could go on. It' goes on for a bit. As for the clothes, it's a matador outfit... where the hell did you even get one?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh... Oh my God... I said what?
Mouse (to Vincent): Here... listen to it for yourself. Maybe, you can make heads or tails of it better than I can. I warn you, you start babbling after the 3 minute mark about your sex life... I turned it off at that point.
Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo, God. I'm so sorry, sweetie. How do I...? Pressing 7 erases it, right?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes... Do you want to talk about it?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh, God... I don't know. Yes? No? Maybe?
Mouse (to Vincent): I mean, I know I said I was staying out of it, but some part of you wanted to talk to me about it. She's still here, so I'm assuming you guys worked it out, whatever the problem was... or are you both in denial?
Vincent (to Mouse): I... I like Poppy. I know it's beyond strange... And I know she worries that she's just "part two: the revenge" of the relationship I had before, but it IS different... I'd like to see where it goes, but... Well, I still worry about all the same things I worried about before.
Mouse (to Vincent): Can I tell you a secret, little brother? Everyone worries about their relationships going wrong, at times. It's normal. And, I don't think it's strange at all. Probably the things you liked in Percy were the parts of Poppy that were in there. Just stop worrying about it so much & enjoy it... Otherwise, you're going to make all of your concerns come true. Besides, she's still here... which is a very good sign, if you ask me.
Vincent (to Mouse): I hope so... I don't know what I'm doing, hun. I don't know what WE'RE doing. Neither of us does, I think. I just didn't want her to leave last night. Clearly. And I'm not sure why that involved the bathtub or a matador outfit. Where DID I get this?
Mouse (to Vincent): I have no idea, little brother. I don't know where you get half the stuff you wear when you're sober... You guys will figure it out, just stop being such a fraidy cat. Now, is there anything else you need? A hand getting out?
Vincent (to Mouse): Yes, please. Oh, good lord... Good morning, hangover. I'm sorry for the late night call, hun. It was... Yesterday was a strange day.
Mouse (to Vincent): It's okay, I was sound asleep apparently... first time in quite awhile actually. So, I didn't get it until this morning.
Vincent (to Mouse): Well, thank heavens for that. Are you sleeping any better?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, mostly. Every now & then I don't but it's getting to be fewer & far between. Eep's been a bit restless the last few nights, but he must have slept soundly, too. Alright, give me a hug. And, then I'm going to get home & get out of your hair.
Vincent (to Mouse): Thanks for checking on me, sweetie.
Mouse (to Vincent): that's what family is for. :-)
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): Anyone up for some breakfast? I made myself egg in a window.
Mouse (to Poppy): Thank you, Poppy, but I'm on my way home. (to Vincent & Poppy) I'll see you two crazy kids later.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh dear... I'm not sure that I'm up to eating yet. Thanks for the offer, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): That's okay, honey... So, is something wrong? Is your sister alright?
Vincent (to Poppy): She's fine. In addition to bedding down in the bathroom and dressing for a bullfight... It appears I left her a drunken voicemail last night. She was checking on me.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, that was awfully nice of her... I'm going to tidy up the kitchen & then I guess I'm going to head over to my apartment. I've got to figure out what I need.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ah. Right. Hee hee... I'm sorry, hun. I'm trying desperately to try to figure out what to say, and I'm failing completely.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, while you're figuring out whatever it is, I'm going to go do the dishes.
Vincent (to Poppy): Do you still want to be roommates, or have I made things too awkward?
Poppy (to Vincent): How have you made things awkward, honey? ... and yes, I'm avoiding your first question... I don't know what to say. I mean, I want to say yes, but I think that would be really stupid on my part...
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, in all honesty, I'd like you to say yes. I've really enjoyed the time we spent together. Last night, apparently I was scared enough that you'd leave to call my sister in a drunken panic. But, I understand if you want to disentangle, and just be friends.
Poppy (to Vincent): I'd actually like to continue with whatever this is & be roommates... I've been procrastinating going over there for hours, because I was trying to figure out what to do. To be honest, I'm a bit scared. I like what we have & I don't want it to get all screwed up & twisted like you & Percy.
Vincent (to Poppy): That makes two of us, hun. According to Mouse, everyone is afraid of screwing up, and I'm just being... I think the phrase she used was "fraidy cat."
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee. Oh my! I didn't think grown people used that phrase, anymore... So, what does this mean?
Vincent (to Poppy): I think it means we both want to try, but we're hesitating because we're scared, and we don't want to screw up our friendship.
Poppy (to Vincent): That would, indeed, be it in a nutshell, honey. So, what do we do now?
Vincent (to Poppy): I suppose we decide whether we want to continue as we've been continuing and hope for the best, or play it safe. We live separately, and keep being friends.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'd hate to look back & regret what might have been, honey. So, if you're up for it, I'd like to see where it goes. God knows, I've done some dumb things in the past, but I can't say I regret the lessons I learned doing 'em. But, if you want to play it safe, I'll totally understand.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I've never been very good at doing the safe, logical thing, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, all I can offer up is that, if things go pear-shaped between us, I'll try my best to not be awful to you.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Now, if only I had the same offer from your counterpart...
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, honey, that's why I'm offering it. I would hate for you to have to deal with the two of us being awful to you. I mean, it's weird enough as it is... Though, I'm sure Percy will eventually get over it.
Vincent (to Poppy): Good heavens, I can only hope so.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I don't know about you, honey, but after that deep, meaningful conversation I think I could use a nap. I think I'm going to lay down for a little bit.
Vincent (to Poppy): I don't blame you. I think I'll follow suit. Shockingly, I didn't seem sleep well in the tub last night.
A couple hours later:
Eep (to Ripper & Robert): Oh! Shit. Hey. Didn't mean to interrupt. Sorry.
Ripper (to Eep): Heh. Fancy seeing you here, Eep.
Robert (to Eep): You're not. We're just watching a game. I assume you're hovering for a reason?
Eep (to Robert & Ripper): Heh. Yeah. Guess so. Just wanted to let you know I got the last of my shit out of my room. I mean, I think I got it all, so... yeah. That's it, I guess.
Robert (to Eep): Awwww. My baby has grown up so fast! I think... Yes. I believe I'm getting misty eyed.
Ripper (to Eep): I'm very happy for you two. I'm sure Robert & Wanda won't be that upset if you drop by... I mean, you live next door.
Eep (to Robert): Heh. Fuck you too, Robert. (to Ripper) Um, thanks. Heh. Yeah, it's not like I'm going far. Hey, um, can I ask you something? Outside? I, uh, I need a smoke.
Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, sure... Let me grab a beer, I'll meet you on the porch… (to Robert) Here's a cold one for you, I'll be right back...
Robert (to Ripper): You're a kind and wise soul. See you in a few.
Ripper (to Eep): So, what's up, Eep?
Eep (to Ripper): Uh, really weird question I know, but Mouse mentioned you had protested some Christian anti-gay camp. What's the name of the dickhead that started it?
Ripper (to Eep): Oh, that would be Nathaniel Jones, he goes by Pastor Nate, probably to sound hip & friendly. He's absolutely awful. He runs several 'pray out the gay' camps & one of them tried to open outside of East Piedmont last year. Why do you ask?
Eep (to Ripper): Yeah. I figured he was a douche. The church he's connected to, do you know if it's called Divine Hope? Has a yellow dove logo? Uhhh, someone from the church knocked on the door yesterday. Mouse mentioned the protest thing. So, you know. I was curious.
Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, that would be it. Bunch of hypocrites. Yeah, I think some of the younger folks are encouraged to do "missionary" work to the heathens.
Eep (to Ripper): Fat Christ. Of course it is...
Ripper (to Eep): Why do I get the feeling that there's more to this than simple curiosity?
Eep (to Ripper): Oh. Ummm... It's, uh... Nothing. They were just, uhhh, looking for someone. Had the wrong address. Um. I'm just kinda paranoid, I guess. You know.
Ripper (to Eep): Oh... okay. Anything else you need to know? Otherwise, I need to get back to the game. I've got a bet going with Robert if I lose... well, you don't want to know.
Eep (to Ripper): Knowing Robert? No. I really fucking don't. Heh. Sorry to interrupt. Thanks for the info.
Ripper (to Eep): No problem. See you later.
A few minutes later:
Mouse (to Eep): Hey, Mister Man, what have you been up to?
Eep (to Mouse): Hey. Nothing much. I've been getting the last of my shit out of Robert and Wanda's.
Mouse (to Eep): Wow, so you're done moving in? How do you feel? Wait... before you answer, taste this sauce.
Eep (to Mouse): Wow. Mmm. That's... holy shit that's good!
Mouse (to Eep): I'm glad you like it, that's going with the homemade pasta...So, how do you feel about being all moved in? Still a little unsure?
Eep (to Mouse): Uh, no, actually. It's kinda... the same so far. I didn't really even think about it until just now. Huh.
Mouse (to Eep): Well, that's good.
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Yeah. I'm an idiot. You can say it.
Mouse (to Eep): I don't think you're an idiot. Overly cautious, a bit nervous, maybe. But, not an idiot.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Well, I'd still say idiot. :p
Mouse (to Eep): Could you see where Otto has gotten off to? I set out his food an hour ago & he hasn't eaten any of it, it's not like him.
Eep (to Mouse): Sure. He's probably off running around with some new alley cat breeding more furry little assholes.
Eep (to Otto): Hey old man! Where the fuck are you? Come eat! (to Mouse) Well, no sign of him yet. I'm sure he'll be back shortly.
Mouse (to Eep): Hmmm, I wonder, if his lady friend is having the kittens? He told me yesterday, that they were coming soon.
Eep (to Mouse): Oh God... I don't know if I'm ready to cope with a litter of Ottos running around.
An hour or so later:
Otto (to Mouse & Eep): Wrowwwl?
Eep (to Otto): Where the fuck have you been? Mouse was worried, you shit head. C'mon!
Otto (to Eep & Mouse): Neeeeeed heeelp. Cooome.
Mouse (to Otto): Lead the way, old man...
Eep (to Mouse): Um. Has he been talking over here long?
Mouse (to Eep): No, that was the first time... it's kinda creepy.
Eep (to Mouse): Uh, yeah it is.
Mouse (to Eep): Sweetie, will you go back to the house & grab a couple towels & the laundry basket?
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah, of course! Is it the kittens? Are they OK?
Mouse (to Eep): I think they're okay, but Otto is acting really concerned, so I'd like to bring them & the mom back to the house to make sure.
Eep (to Mouse): Here. These are my painting towels, so we don't have to worry about getting em gross. Don't look like that, Otto. They're clean.
Mouse (to Eep): Thanks... It looks like we've got three kittens here...
Eep (to Mouse): Um, where's Momma cat?
Mouse (to Eep): Hold on, I'm getting her, she's laying further under the bush. Damn it... come on lady cat. Otto, talk to her, please.
Eep (to Mouse): Mouse, she doesn't look so good...
Mouse (to Eep): I know... The emergency vet clinic's number is on the fridge.
Eep (to Mouse): Alright. They can see us. They said to bring the kittens too. Do you want me to drive?
Mouse (to Eep): Yes please... (to Otto) I'm sorry, but you're going to have to stay here, old man.
Eep (to Otto): Otto! No! You gotta stay here. It'll be, OK. We promise. I owe you one, remember? We'll do whatever we can. Don't worry.
Mouse (to Eep): I hope they're going to be okay... I've never seen Otto this worried before.
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Me too. The babies look alright. It's Mamma Cat I'm worried about.
Mouse (to Eep): I know... I'm trying not to think about it.
Eep (to Mouse): It'll be OK. The vet took her right away, and we found her fast. I'll be OK.
Mouse (to Eep): I don't think I've ever seen such tiny kittens before... It's hard to believe that Otto was this small not so long ago.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Yeah. They're kinda weird looking worm babies at that age. If the mom is too sick, we can take care of them, you know. They sell kitten milk at the pet store, and as long as we get food in them every 2 hours, they'll be fine.
Mouse (to Eep): Well, I guess it's a good thing that I'm unemployed... You are really wonderful, you know that?
Eep (to Mouse): Um, OK. Sure. I'm not gonna argue with you, but, uh, what am I wonderful about again?
Mouse (to Eep): Because, you were complaining about the idea of kittens & now that they're in trouble, you're figuring out ways to help them. It's moments like this that reminds me why I love you. :-)
Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Uh... Heh. I love you too.
Mouse (to Eep): How long does it take to find out what's wrong? The waiting is killing me.
Eep (to Mouse): I dunno. Do you want me to ask?
Mouse (to Eep): Yes, if you don't mind.
Eep (to Mouse): OK, the good news is that the kittens are all fine. Bad news is the, uh, placenta was cut too close to Mamma's abdomen, so she has a, um, hole that needs surgery. They can stitch her up, but she's lost blood.
Mouse (to Eep): Oh... that doesn't sound good.
Eep (to Mouse): They're going to do whatever they can for her. They're going patch her up, and keep her overnight. We can head home if you want. I gave them my cell phone number, so they'll call if anything changes. We can check on her tomorrow morning. They offered to kitten-sit them tonight if we want, but I figured Otto'd probably wanna know they were OK. Is that alright?
Mouse (to Eep): We should bring the kittens home, so they can be with Otto.
Eep (to Mouse): OK. I can drop you and the kittens off at home, and I'll swing by the store. I know what to get. There a can of salmon in the cabinet if Otto needs a little something extra to make him feel better.
Mouse (to Eep): You're a good man, Eep. Otto & I are lucky to have you. Otto's probably a nervous wreck by now....
Eep (to Mouse): I'm alright. You're pretty OK, yourself. I'll see you in a little bit.
Mouse (to Otto): Hey, old man... your children are here safe & sound.
Otto (to Mouse): Mrowomma? Issss she...?
Mouse (to Otto): She's hurt... and she lost a lot of blood, but they're doing their best. They want to keep her overnight for observation. And, that is a little bit freaky, old man.
Otto (to Mouse): Mmmrow. Sowwwrry. Sssss'not easssssy.
Mouse (to Eep): I'm sure it's not... Do you want to come & look at your kids? Eep went to get them supplies.
Otto (to Mouse): Yooorw!
Mouse (to Otto): I think you've got a couple of boys & a girl here, but you probably can tell better than I can... Please, promise me, this isn't going to be a regular thing. I don't think we can afford a huge cat population in the house.
Otto (to Mouse): Nrooow! Noooo more kidsss. Can't take ssstressss...
Eep (to Mouse & Otto): Hey. Um, how we holding up? I've got the stuff. Cat formula, kitten bottle. I can make up the first batch of formula now, and then Mouse and I can take shifts for the feedings. (to Otto) Speaking of which, you should curl up with your kids, Poppa. They need to be kept warm.
Mouse (to Eep): Sounds good to me... I think I'm going to curl up & get some sleep. I'll set the alarm for two hours. Plus, I'm sure Otto isn't going to let either of us forget.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Probably not. I'll join you after I get everyone fed. Um... You OK?
Mouse (to Eep): As well as can be expected, I suppose. How are you doing?
Eep (to Mouse): I'm fine. I've done this once before, so... It'll be fine.
Mouse (to Eep): Ok, I'm off to bed. I love you. (to Otto) You're on heater duty. Keep your babies warm, Pops.
Eep (to Mouse): Love you too. G'night. I'll see you soon.
Otto (to Eep): Thank yoooou, boy. Mrrrow.
Eep (to Otto): Hey, hey. Don't get all weird and lovey. You talking is freaky enough. S'alright. I told you. I owe you one, furball.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, there you are... why are you laying in the bathtub? Here, you may need this coffee more than I do, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Judging by the blankets, and other accoutrement, I'm guessing I slept here.
Poppy (to Vincent): That's really odd, honey. I mean, I slept on the couch, you had the whole bed to yourself.
Vincent (to Poppy): Don't I know it. We over did it a little last night, didn't we? I mean... when did I change into these?
Poppy (to Vincent): I'd say we did, honey. Most of last night is a blur. But seeing as how I woke up wearing your pajamas... I can only guess. Someone's knocking on the door. I'll be right back, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm going to try to extract myself from here...
Mouse (to Poppy): Hey Poppy. you're here?
Poppy (to Mouse): Of course, I'm here, honey. Where else would I be?
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh um, I don't know. I keep forgetting that you're staying here... Is Vincent around?
Poppy (to Mouse): He's currently laying in the bathtub fully clothed... I'm going to make some breakfast.
Mouse (to Vincent): Hey, little brother. Fun night?
Vincent (to Mouse): Hi, sweetie. I don't think so. Of course, I'm a little fuzzy on when exactly I decided the bathtub makes for a good bed... And I'm still not sure what the hell I'm wearing?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, then allow me to clear up the mystery for you... it was when you decided to leave this message on my phone...
Vincent (to Mouse): I left you a message?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes, at 3am... It's a little garbled... something about Poppy leaving you & you don't want to her to go. And, that you really screwed the pooch this time... I could go on. It' goes on for a bit. As for the clothes, it's a matador outfit... where the hell did you even get one?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh... Oh my God... I said what?
Mouse (to Vincent): Here... listen to it for yourself. Maybe, you can make heads or tails of it better than I can. I warn you, you start babbling after the 3 minute mark about your sex life... I turned it off at that point.
Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo, God. I'm so sorry, sweetie. How do I...? Pressing 7 erases it, right?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes... Do you want to talk about it?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh, God... I don't know. Yes? No? Maybe?
Mouse (to Vincent): I mean, I know I said I was staying out of it, but some part of you wanted to talk to me about it. She's still here, so I'm assuming you guys worked it out, whatever the problem was... or are you both in denial?
Vincent (to Mouse): I... I like Poppy. I know it's beyond strange... And I know she worries that she's just "part two: the revenge" of the relationship I had before, but it IS different... I'd like to see where it goes, but... Well, I still worry about all the same things I worried about before.
Mouse (to Vincent): Can I tell you a secret, little brother? Everyone worries about their relationships going wrong, at times. It's normal. And, I don't think it's strange at all. Probably the things you liked in Percy were the parts of Poppy that were in there. Just stop worrying about it so much & enjoy it... Otherwise, you're going to make all of your concerns come true. Besides, she's still here... which is a very good sign, if you ask me.
Vincent (to Mouse): I hope so... I don't know what I'm doing, hun. I don't know what WE'RE doing. Neither of us does, I think. I just didn't want her to leave last night. Clearly. And I'm not sure why that involved the bathtub or a matador outfit. Where DID I get this?
Mouse (to Vincent): I have no idea, little brother. I don't know where you get half the stuff you wear when you're sober... You guys will figure it out, just stop being such a fraidy cat. Now, is there anything else you need? A hand getting out?
Vincent (to Mouse): Yes, please. Oh, good lord... Good morning, hangover. I'm sorry for the late night call, hun. It was... Yesterday was a strange day.
Mouse (to Vincent): It's okay, I was sound asleep apparently... first time in quite awhile actually. So, I didn't get it until this morning.
Vincent (to Mouse): Well, thank heavens for that. Are you sleeping any better?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, mostly. Every now & then I don't but it's getting to be fewer & far between. Eep's been a bit restless the last few nights, but he must have slept soundly, too. Alright, give me a hug. And, then I'm going to get home & get out of your hair.
Vincent (to Mouse): Thanks for checking on me, sweetie.
Mouse (to Vincent): that's what family is for. :-)
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): Anyone up for some breakfast? I made myself egg in a window.
Mouse (to Poppy): Thank you, Poppy, but I'm on my way home. (to Vincent & Poppy) I'll see you two crazy kids later.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh dear... I'm not sure that I'm up to eating yet. Thanks for the offer, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): That's okay, honey... So, is something wrong? Is your sister alright?
Vincent (to Poppy): She's fine. In addition to bedding down in the bathroom and dressing for a bullfight... It appears I left her a drunken voicemail last night. She was checking on me.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, that was awfully nice of her... I'm going to tidy up the kitchen & then I guess I'm going to head over to my apartment. I've got to figure out what I need.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ah. Right. Hee hee... I'm sorry, hun. I'm trying desperately to try to figure out what to say, and I'm failing completely.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, while you're figuring out whatever it is, I'm going to go do the dishes.
Vincent (to Poppy): Do you still want to be roommates, or have I made things too awkward?
Poppy (to Vincent): How have you made things awkward, honey? ... and yes, I'm avoiding your first question... I don't know what to say. I mean, I want to say yes, but I think that would be really stupid on my part...
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, in all honesty, I'd like you to say yes. I've really enjoyed the time we spent together. Last night, apparently I was scared enough that you'd leave to call my sister in a drunken panic. But, I understand if you want to disentangle, and just be friends.
Poppy (to Vincent): I'd actually like to continue with whatever this is & be roommates... I've been procrastinating going over there for hours, because I was trying to figure out what to do. To be honest, I'm a bit scared. I like what we have & I don't want it to get all screwed up & twisted like you & Percy.
Vincent (to Poppy): That makes two of us, hun. According to Mouse, everyone is afraid of screwing up, and I'm just being... I think the phrase she used was "fraidy cat."
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee. Oh my! I didn't think grown people used that phrase, anymore... So, what does this mean?
Vincent (to Poppy): I think it means we both want to try, but we're hesitating because we're scared, and we don't want to screw up our friendship.
Poppy (to Vincent): That would, indeed, be it in a nutshell, honey. So, what do we do now?
Vincent (to Poppy): I suppose we decide whether we want to continue as we've been continuing and hope for the best, or play it safe. We live separately, and keep being friends.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'd hate to look back & regret what might have been, honey. So, if you're up for it, I'd like to see where it goes. God knows, I've done some dumb things in the past, but I can't say I regret the lessons I learned doing 'em. But, if you want to play it safe, I'll totally understand.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I've never been very good at doing the safe, logical thing, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, all I can offer up is that, if things go pear-shaped between us, I'll try my best to not be awful to you.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Now, if only I had the same offer from your counterpart...
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, honey, that's why I'm offering it. I would hate for you to have to deal with the two of us being awful to you. I mean, it's weird enough as it is... Though, I'm sure Percy will eventually get over it.
Vincent (to Poppy): Good heavens, I can only hope so.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I don't know about you, honey, but after that deep, meaningful conversation I think I could use a nap. I think I'm going to lay down for a little bit.
Vincent (to Poppy): I don't blame you. I think I'll follow suit. Shockingly, I didn't seem sleep well in the tub last night.
A couple hours later:
Eep (to Ripper & Robert): Oh! Shit. Hey. Didn't mean to interrupt. Sorry.
Ripper (to Eep): Heh. Fancy seeing you here, Eep.
Robert (to Eep): You're not. We're just watching a game. I assume you're hovering for a reason?
Eep (to Robert & Ripper): Heh. Yeah. Guess so. Just wanted to let you know I got the last of my shit out of my room. I mean, I think I got it all, so... yeah. That's it, I guess.
Robert (to Eep): Awwww. My baby has grown up so fast! I think... Yes. I believe I'm getting misty eyed.
Ripper (to Eep): I'm very happy for you two. I'm sure Robert & Wanda won't be that upset if you drop by... I mean, you live next door.
Eep (to Robert): Heh. Fuck you too, Robert. (to Ripper) Um, thanks. Heh. Yeah, it's not like I'm going far. Hey, um, can I ask you something? Outside? I, uh, I need a smoke.
Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, sure... Let me grab a beer, I'll meet you on the porch… (to Robert) Here's a cold one for you, I'll be right back...
Robert (to Ripper): You're a kind and wise soul. See you in a few.
Ripper (to Eep): So, what's up, Eep?
Eep (to Ripper): Uh, really weird question I know, but Mouse mentioned you had protested some Christian anti-gay camp. What's the name of the dickhead that started it?
Ripper (to Eep): Oh, that would be Nathaniel Jones, he goes by Pastor Nate, probably to sound hip & friendly. He's absolutely awful. He runs several 'pray out the gay' camps & one of them tried to open outside of East Piedmont last year. Why do you ask?
Eep (to Ripper): Yeah. I figured he was a douche. The church he's connected to, do you know if it's called Divine Hope? Has a yellow dove logo? Uhhh, someone from the church knocked on the door yesterday. Mouse mentioned the protest thing. So, you know. I was curious.
Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, that would be it. Bunch of hypocrites. Yeah, I think some of the younger folks are encouraged to do "missionary" work to the heathens.
Eep (to Ripper): Fat Christ. Of course it is...
Ripper (to Eep): Why do I get the feeling that there's more to this than simple curiosity?
Eep (to Ripper): Oh. Ummm... It's, uh... Nothing. They were just, uhhh, looking for someone. Had the wrong address. Um. I'm just kinda paranoid, I guess. You know.
Ripper (to Eep): Oh... okay. Anything else you need to know? Otherwise, I need to get back to the game. I've got a bet going with Robert if I lose... well, you don't want to know.
Eep (to Ripper): Knowing Robert? No. I really fucking don't. Heh. Sorry to interrupt. Thanks for the info.
Ripper (to Eep): No problem. See you later.
A few minutes later:
Mouse (to Eep): Hey, Mister Man, what have you been up to?
Eep (to Mouse): Hey. Nothing much. I've been getting the last of my shit out of Robert and Wanda's.
Mouse (to Eep): Wow, so you're done moving in? How do you feel? Wait... before you answer, taste this sauce.
Eep (to Mouse): Wow. Mmm. That's... holy shit that's good!
Mouse (to Eep): I'm glad you like it, that's going with the homemade pasta...So, how do you feel about being all moved in? Still a little unsure?
Eep (to Mouse): Uh, no, actually. It's kinda... the same so far. I didn't really even think about it until just now. Huh.
Mouse (to Eep): Well, that's good.
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Yeah. I'm an idiot. You can say it.
Mouse (to Eep): I don't think you're an idiot. Overly cautious, a bit nervous, maybe. But, not an idiot.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Well, I'd still say idiot. :p
Mouse (to Eep): Could you see where Otto has gotten off to? I set out his food an hour ago & he hasn't eaten any of it, it's not like him.
Eep (to Mouse): Sure. He's probably off running around with some new alley cat breeding more furry little assholes.
Eep (to Otto): Hey old man! Where the fuck are you? Come eat! (to Mouse) Well, no sign of him yet. I'm sure he'll be back shortly.
Mouse (to Eep): Hmmm, I wonder, if his lady friend is having the kittens? He told me yesterday, that they were coming soon.
Eep (to Mouse): Oh God... I don't know if I'm ready to cope with a litter of Ottos running around.
An hour or so later:
Otto (to Mouse & Eep): Wrowwwl?
Eep (to Otto): Where the fuck have you been? Mouse was worried, you shit head. C'mon!
Otto (to Eep & Mouse): Neeeeeed heeelp. Cooome.
Mouse (to Otto): Lead the way, old man...
Eep (to Mouse): Um. Has he been talking over here long?
Mouse (to Eep): No, that was the first time... it's kinda creepy.
Eep (to Mouse): Uh, yeah it is.
Mouse (to Eep): Sweetie, will you go back to the house & grab a couple towels & the laundry basket?
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah, of course! Is it the kittens? Are they OK?
Mouse (to Eep): I think they're okay, but Otto is acting really concerned, so I'd like to bring them & the mom back to the house to make sure.
Eep (to Mouse): Here. These are my painting towels, so we don't have to worry about getting em gross. Don't look like that, Otto. They're clean.
Mouse (to Eep): Thanks... It looks like we've got three kittens here...
Eep (to Mouse): Um, where's Momma cat?
Mouse (to Eep): Hold on, I'm getting her, she's laying further under the bush. Damn it... come on lady cat. Otto, talk to her, please.
Eep (to Mouse): Mouse, she doesn't look so good...
Mouse (to Eep): I know... The emergency vet clinic's number is on the fridge.
Eep (to Mouse): Alright. They can see us. They said to bring the kittens too. Do you want me to drive?
Mouse (to Eep): Yes please... (to Otto) I'm sorry, but you're going to have to stay here, old man.
Eep (to Otto): Otto! No! You gotta stay here. It'll be, OK. We promise. I owe you one, remember? We'll do whatever we can. Don't worry.
Mouse (to Eep): I hope they're going to be okay... I've never seen Otto this worried before.
Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Me too. The babies look alright. It's Mamma Cat I'm worried about.
Mouse (to Eep): I know... I'm trying not to think about it.
Eep (to Mouse): It'll be OK. The vet took her right away, and we found her fast. I'll be OK.
Mouse (to Eep): I don't think I've ever seen such tiny kittens before... It's hard to believe that Otto was this small not so long ago.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Yeah. They're kinda weird looking worm babies at that age. If the mom is too sick, we can take care of them, you know. They sell kitten milk at the pet store, and as long as we get food in them every 2 hours, they'll be fine.
Mouse (to Eep): Well, I guess it's a good thing that I'm unemployed... You are really wonderful, you know that?
Eep (to Mouse): Um, OK. Sure. I'm not gonna argue with you, but, uh, what am I wonderful about again?
Mouse (to Eep): Because, you were complaining about the idea of kittens & now that they're in trouble, you're figuring out ways to help them. It's moments like this that reminds me why I love you. :-)
Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Uh... Heh. I love you too.
Mouse (to Eep): How long does it take to find out what's wrong? The waiting is killing me.
Eep (to Mouse): I dunno. Do you want me to ask?
Mouse (to Eep): Yes, if you don't mind.
Eep (to Mouse): OK, the good news is that the kittens are all fine. Bad news is the, uh, placenta was cut too close to Mamma's abdomen, so she has a, um, hole that needs surgery. They can stitch her up, but she's lost blood.
Mouse (to Eep): Oh... that doesn't sound good.
Eep (to Mouse): They're going to do whatever they can for her. They're going patch her up, and keep her overnight. We can head home if you want. I gave them my cell phone number, so they'll call if anything changes. We can check on her tomorrow morning. They offered to kitten-sit them tonight if we want, but I figured Otto'd probably wanna know they were OK. Is that alright?
Mouse (to Eep): We should bring the kittens home, so they can be with Otto.
Eep (to Mouse): OK. I can drop you and the kittens off at home, and I'll swing by the store. I know what to get. There a can of salmon in the cabinet if Otto needs a little something extra to make him feel better.
Mouse (to Eep): You're a good man, Eep. Otto & I are lucky to have you. Otto's probably a nervous wreck by now....
Eep (to Mouse): I'm alright. You're pretty OK, yourself. I'll see you in a little bit.
Mouse (to Otto): Hey, old man... your children are here safe & sound.
Otto (to Mouse): Mrowomma? Issss she...?
Mouse (to Otto): She's hurt... and she lost a lot of blood, but they're doing their best. They want to keep her overnight for observation. And, that is a little bit freaky, old man.
Otto (to Mouse): Mmmrow. Sowwwrry. Sssss'not easssssy.
Mouse (to Eep): I'm sure it's not... Do you want to come & look at your kids? Eep went to get them supplies.
Otto (to Mouse): Yooorw!
Mouse (to Otto): I think you've got a couple of boys & a girl here, but you probably can tell better than I can... Please, promise me, this isn't going to be a regular thing. I don't think we can afford a huge cat population in the house.
Otto (to Mouse): Nrooow! Noooo more kidsss. Can't take ssstressss...
Eep (to Mouse & Otto): Hey. Um, how we holding up? I've got the stuff. Cat formula, kitten bottle. I can make up the first batch of formula now, and then Mouse and I can take shifts for the feedings. (to Otto) Speaking of which, you should curl up with your kids, Poppa. They need to be kept warm.
Mouse (to Eep): Sounds good to me... I think I'm going to curl up & get some sleep. I'll set the alarm for two hours. Plus, I'm sure Otto isn't going to let either of us forget.
Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Probably not. I'll join you after I get everyone fed. Um... You OK?
Mouse (to Eep): As well as can be expected, I suppose. How are you doing?
Eep (to Mouse): I'm fine. I've done this once before, so... It'll be fine.
Mouse (to Eep): Ok, I'm off to bed. I love you. (to Otto) You're on heater duty. Keep your babies warm, Pops.
Eep (to Mouse): Love you too. G'night. I'll see you soon.
Otto (to Eep): Thank yoooou, boy. Mrrrow.
Eep (to Otto): Hey, hey. Don't get all weird and lovey. You talking is freaky enough. S'alright. I told you. I owe you one, furball.
