Font Size:  

One

Finn

“Where are we going?” I ask my best friend Zane as I pull down the visor to ensure I don’t appear too much of a hot mess.

“To this party I was invited to. One of my friends from work is throwing it. He’s a Master and lots of people he knows in the pet play scene will be there.” He adjusts a pair of rabbit ears on his head that weren’t there the last time I glanced his way, almost as if they came out of nowhere. Seriously, where the fuck did they come from? “He has a pup and kitten of his own, so their friends will be attending too. Maybe we’ll both find someone to play with tonight.”

Sighing softly, I rest my head back on my seat. “I kind of just want to hang low tonight. Drink a little, maybe even dance and chat with a few people. Not really in the mood to play.” I’m so exhausted from the work week, I doubt I’ll have the energy to do more than stand against the wall and hold a cup in my hand.

Zane stares my way with a wide-eyed expression. “That’s a first. Didn’t you have yourself a good time at the last party we went to with that one pup?”

“Yeah. I mean, he was cute and I enjoyed the company but I dunno… Something was missing.”

“Maybe you’re not a handler then. You could always try playing with a little or even—”

“No. I’m a handler. Nothing has ever felt more right than the idea of having a pet to care for. One to give lots of love, praise, and cuddles to. Someone who’s not only playful and flirty but well behaved too. Also, a pet who doesn’t require too much exercise. Playing catch isn’t really my thing and neither is taking someone on walks using a leash. Collars don’t do much for me either.”

“Then you’re right. A pup isn’t a good fit for you. There’s always ponies, dragons, and cubs. Us bunnies aren’t too bad either, you know.”

I give him a once-over. “They are when they’re you.”

He laughs and turns off the inside car light. Starting the engine, he glances around and pulls out of the driveway. “I’m sure you’ll find the right one soon. Tonight could be your lucky night.”

Doubtful. Leaning my face on the cold glass, I glance out the window and take in everything we pass by. The night grows darker the closer we are to the party and I struggle to keep my eyes open. This was a bad idea. Why didn’t I stay home and rest instead of allowing Zane to drag my zombie ass out of the house? I doubt I’ll be fun for anyone tonight.

The car slows and Zane turns into a neighborhood filled with identical houses. Based on how clean all the yards are and the way all the fences match, we are entering HOA hell. Zane parks in front of a white brick house decorated with pink and black balloons. We don’t hear the music coming from inside until we are standing on the porch.

Zane knocks a few times, and a man in a unicorn hood opens the door and greets us, welcoming us inside. Smiling his way, I consider what it would be like to have him kneel for me and the thought isn’t fulfilling enough for me to entertain. Zane hooks his fingers around my wrist and drags me in the direction of a man dressed head to toe in leather. “Remy,” he shouts, bouncing up and down.

The older man glances his way and his lips turn up. “Z. You came, and you brought a friend too.” He shifts his gaze to me.

“I did. This is my best friend, Finn. He’s a handler.”

“Awesome. Nice to meet you, Finn, and I’m glad you could join us tonight.” He offers me his hand and I shake it briefly before pulling back to shove my hands in my pockets. It takes me a while to feel comfortable in new places full of strangers. Doesn’t matter how many parties or clubs I go to. It definitely helps to have a familiar face close by.

“Drinks are in the kitchen,” Remy continues. “I have a few rules I’d like my guests to abide by while here. The printed list is on the fridge. Zane has been to one of my parties before and will show you where it is. You don’t have to play with anyone tonight but if you do, I ask that you don’t have more than one drink.”

“I’m only here for viewing and socializing purposes,” I blurt.

“That’s perfectly fine too. My two pups are around here somewhere. I’m sure you’ll meet them at some point. They get excited when their friends are here and tend to take off a lot.” He chuckles. “Enjoy yourself, and if you need anything don’t hesitate to ask.”

“Thanks, I won’t.”

“Enough with all the formalities. This bunny needs some snacks.” Zane hooks his arm in mine. “We’ll be where the food is.”

Remy nods, smiling. “There are plenty of veggies on the table, so help yourself. I’m sure we’ll see each other again before the night’s over.”

“We always do.” Zane drags me to the kitchen while waving his friend off. “Let’s get your ass a drink.”

“I was thinking more along the lines of two.”

“One for now, and after we walk around a bit you can decide for sure if you want another.”

Walking over to the fridge, I read over the list of rules. They are pretty standard rules you’re given at most clubs. At the very bottom it states how the hosts won’t hesitate to throw you out at any time.

A hand rests on my shoulder and when I turn around, Zane brings a cup full of golden liquid close to my face. “Do try to pace yourself. You never know who you may find here.”

If it’s anything like all the other parties, gatherings, and events I’ve been to, I’ll probably end up spending most of my time alone or wanting to turn in early. I’m over the constant disappointment I’ve experienced. It doesn’t make my chances of finding a pet any greater when a lot of people don’t take me seriously due to my age. Yes, I’m young, but that doesn’t mean I’ll be any less of a good handler than someone much older.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com