Blue Eye Magic

A Pet Short

by

Lee Carey

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Blue Eye Magic is fiction. Any people, places, or events are only to make the story realistic.

Copyright © 2011 by Lee Carey

SMASHWORDS EDITION

This e-book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This e-book may be given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, that is fine. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Other pet novels by Lee Carey: “Gabby…All About Me” and “Pets In Paradise”.

Both available at Smashwords.

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I am dedicating this story to: Our ‘real’ Angel; and to Jan Robbins and Pauline Moreau Tilbe – two honest-to-goodness pet lovers. Thank you, girls, for your encouragement and sharing your valuable time reading my scribblings. It’s much appreciated. Keep smilin’…

Visit my website: LeeCarey-author.com

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BLUE EYE MAGIC

The summer afternoon at Sandbridge Beach was one for the memory books. Lila Robbins sat on the front steps of the cottage, hugging her loving puppy, Angel. Observing couples, children, and frisky pooches walking and running the coastline made Lila’s upcoming two-day business trip to Charleston, SC that much harder. “I’m going to miss you, Angel. You and Bryan will have fun times on the beach, and I’m sure he’ll cook you special goodies on the grill. Please be nice and sweet for him because he really enjoys puppy-sitting you while I’m away.” She looked at Bryan as he placed the suitcases into the trunk of her new Mustang convertible. “Isn’t that right, sweetie? You and my spoiled pooch are a winning team.”

After gently closing the trunk, Bryan walked over and knelt before Lila and Angel. A smile filled his face, showing off too-white perfect teeth. “You bet, honey. Angel and I always have a blast. Every day is a Saturday at the beach. Right, pooch?” He said, reaching over and rubbing Angel’s head.

For you it is.

Lila gave Angel a hug and kiss on the head. “I’ll see you Sunday afternoon. I love you.”

I love you, too. I’d rather be going with you…like old times.

The attractive blonde stood and gave Bryan a long ‘good-bye’ kiss. “You take care, and thank you for looking after my special Angel.”

Opening the car door, he replied, “It’s my pleasure, Lila. Drive safely and call us Sunday. We’ll miss you.”

Taking a seat on the steps beside Angel, man and dog watched Lila back out and punch the red ‘Tang down the beach road, her long blonde hair waving in the breeze.

Bryan stood and said, “Get inside. Your deck time has arrived. I’ve got buddies coming over for a cookout later this afternoon.”

Angel spent the rest of the evening alone, on the second deck. On the top deck she could hear Bryan’s friends talking and laughing. The worst part – smelling pork chops and ribs grilling, while her belly rumbled. As the sun set, the party moved inside and the music was jacked up. Angel put paws over ears and tried to sleep. Her bladder felt three times its size, but since Lila didn’t approve of her peeing on the deck, she held it, hoping Bryan would take her down and also to feed her before bedtime. Every time he kept her, his wants always took first place, so this treatment was nothing new.

By the time Bryan’s party ended, the moon hovered above the ocean. Angel heard him stumbling down the steps and open the sliding door to the deck. “Let’s go! It’s time to hit the sack,” he yelled, clapping his hands.

Angel stepped up and waited while the choke collar and leash were put on.

Bryan tugged and pulled the aggravated, uncooperative pooch down the stairs and out the backdoor, into another humid July night. He released a loud, booze-fueled belch – and the ticked-off dog responded with an even louder bark. “You better keep that annoying yapping quiet tonight! I’m tired, and fed up with you,” he said, maintaining pressure on her choke chain. “You smell like a dead skunk and your fur is full of sand. You’ve probably got fleas, too.”

Angel dropped her head and sat on the wooden-slatted walkway beneath the deck. If he’d rinse me off with water after I go to the beach to run and do my business, he would find most of the sand washes off. But no, instead he rushes inside for the A/C and to grab another beer or martini. In my opinion, this self-absorbed sissy has a huge case of ‘it’s all about me’ disease.

Bryan aimed a hard, red-eyed stare at the dejected dog and snatched the rope leash toward him, tying it to the familiar piling beneath the deck, beside the outdoor shower. “Now, lie down and go to sleep! Your water bowl’s over there. Not too much in it, but it’ll last till tomorrow morning. Good riddance.” He mumbled something even Angel’s sensitive ears couldn’t decipher, and walked inside.

With her eyes glued to the full moon rising higher over the ocean, Angel walked from under the second-story deck as far as the rope allowed, settled into the sand, and released a deep sigh. I’m glad Lila’s coming home tomorrow afternoon. Even two days with Bryan is unbearable. It almost makes me yearn for the lonely nights at the shelter. Wow! Did I say that?

A light southerly breeze drifted through the surrounding sea oats, providing little relief from the sweltering heat. Her tongue felt like sandpaper. She glanced toward the small bowl of water on the walkway. It’s been out here all day…probably hotter than Lila’s coffee. I miss her so much.

The sounds of frolicking children playing in the swimming pool several cottages to the south filled Angel’s ears. Her love of the water and children only magnified her dismal feelings of rejection. She recalled the six weeks on the lam after digging under the fence at her second home, spending nights under the stars, alone. Those times were not pleasant memories, but they certainly beat the treatment she had received after her ‘newness’ wore off. However, the neglect and abuse her first humans delivered paled in comparison to Bryan’s harsh, hateful treatment of her whenever Lila was absent. He’s such a phony.

Angel desired a restful sleep and sweet dreams about the kind lady who adopted and truly loved her. If she could peacefully survive the next few hours, tomorrow afternoon would bring Lila home and their life would return to normal. She released a deep sigh, swatted at a mosquito, curled into a ball, and closed her tired eyes.

A short time later the large red fox limped quietly through wild shrubs and sea grass. Angel’s scent tickled his nostrils. She’s out here again tonight. When he reached the edge of the clearing around the cottage, he paused, sticking his head through a small bush. His heart ached to see his special friend tied outside like some rabid dog. She was not deserving of this type of treatment. Angel’s concern and compassion had helped him after his brush with death. He decided to pay her a visit and hopefully boost her spirits.

To keep from startling her, he used his paw to shake the branches of the bush. He saw her ears perk up, her head following. When she turned toward the rustling sound, he watched her beautiful blue eye, kissed by the moonlight, light up. “Want some company, Angel?”

Hopping to her feet, Angel replied, “I sure do, Foxy.”

The beautiful fox slipped through the scrub brush, down the sand dune, and eased up beside his canine friend. “I see you’re camping out again tonight.” He settled on his haunches beside her.

Angel nodded. “Yeah, Mr. Asinine is tending to me while Lila’s away on business.”

Foxy scratched his ear with a hind paw. “Oh, you mean Lila’s new boyfriend.”

“Unfortunately, yes. And the nickname I gave him fits like a collar.” She let out a low yip. (Her way of giggling.)

Foxy looked closely at his furry, black friend with the four tan paws, and quickly spotted a deep sadness in her eyes. He hated feeling helpless, unable to assist her. The idea pricking his brain was to wait outside until this hateful human was fiddling around in the garage, and when came out to relieve himself of beer, he’d give him a skin-breaking nip on the ankle. The man would certainly run to the hospital for a rabies shot. However, that enjoyable little payback would only give foxes a bad name, and would not improve Angel’s situation.

“So, when does Lila return?”

“Tomorrow evening. This is a short trip. Oh, Foxy, I wish she’d come home tonight and find me tied up out here like some wild mutt, he’d be out so fast his always-perfect hair would get wind-blown – if she didn’t yank it out first.” Angel released two little yips.

Foxy shook his head. “I take it he acts decent to you when she’s around, right?”

“Yep. He’s one sneaky rascal, Foxy. I’m thankful he doesn’t live here. That would push me over the limit. He only stays over when he’s sitting me. Before he showed up on the scene, Lila used to take me on her trips. We’d stay in places where they allowed pets, and we had some fun times.”

Foxy stood and stretched. “Well, if he’s as cunning as you say, Lila will never see or know how he treats you. Remember, every day they’re together, he’s digging in deeper, and one day they might get married.”

Angel shuddered. “Aw, don’t even mention that, Foxy. I’ve got enough on my plate to think about. What am I going to do?”

Settling back down, Foxy gazed at the ivory moon. “You have only two choices, Angel. The best one – hope he changes.” He leaned toward her and remained silent.

“Well, what’s the other choice?”

“The worst one…you run away and hope to find another home.”

Angel released a low moan and plopped her head on her paws. “He has tried several tricks and made lots of suggestions about me leaving to live the ‘free’ life. The nut has no idea what living the so-called free life is like.”

“Wow! This guy is serious. I know you’d never leave because that would mean both you and Lila lose…and Mr. Ass wins.”

Angel yipped. “Asinine, Foxy.”

“Whatever…same difference.”

Both yipped.

Angel recalled her mama’s encouraging words when she was a young pup. ‘You come from a long line of three breeds of strong canines. Our Husky ancestors survived very hard times in North Dakota, living with and assisting the Native Americans. In fact, one of our ancestors was reputed to have special powers, supposedly learned from the tribe’s medicine man. And, from what I’ve heard, only you and he possessed one blue eye and one brown eye. So remember, you’re also special and tough, and I believe you’ll be an asset, not only to your human companions, but to other animals and birds you come in contact with. You also have the acquired skills of protection and bravery from your German Shepherd’s line, and your love of water from the Lab’s line.’ Never forget your heritage. Focusing on these positive facts made Angel feel strong, giving her the will to improve her situation.

“Foxy, I will do something, but I promise you, I’ll never accept Bryan’s treatment, nor will I run away with my tail tucked between my legs. No way, buddy.”

Foxy yipped. “Yeah! That’s the Angel I know. Is there any way I can help you? Remember, I owe you, girl. If not for you, I might not have survived my little run-in with that speeding car a few months ago. I crawled back here and curled up in the bushes. When you came out to do your business the following morning and sniffed me out, instead of raising a fuss and attacking me, you were so compassionate. My hind leg was messed up so bad that I couldn’t hunt for food, but you brought yours down here, in your mouth, and shared with me. You also made sure Lila kept the water bowl full of fresh water. You were my savior. So count me in for whatever you decide to do, friend.”

“We do make a good team, Foxy. Tell you what…you go finish your nightly ‘scrapping’ while I do some serious thinking. Come back before first light.”

Foxy hopped up with a new energy. “You got it, Angel. Want me to bring you anything to eat?”

“No thanks. Bryan gave me a bowl of the ‘cheap’ stuff he got from Wal-Mart before he dumped me out here.”

“I thought you ate Purina.”

After a quick yip, Angel replied, “Not when Mr. Tightwad’s around. He keeps a bag of the rot-gut stuff in the trunk of his car.”

“Wait a minute, girl. I know Lila keeps the good stuff because that’s what I ate. If he’s so tight, why would he do that?”

“He thinks Lila spends too much money on me, so he feeds me the discount junk, making the Purina last longer. The guy’s a piece of work, Foxy. In my opinion, he’s gotta go or make a major change. He’s one slick character, Foxy.”

“Well, the food switching beats all I’ve ever heard. Don’t worry, friend, we’ll change him or run him off. Anyway, I’ll be back around four o’clock. Good luck.”

“Thanks.” She watched her friend turn and disappear into the natural area behind the cottage. Now it’s time to put on my thinking cap and rest. After several quick paw scrapes in the sand, followed by two spins, Angel plopped and released a long sigh and closed her eyes. Within seconds, sleep overtook her tense, tired body.

Cool, damp sand tickled her feet as she pranced along the tide line, inhaling the salty breeze. Seagulls sliced through a cloudless Carolina blue sky above the blue-green Atlantic. Surprised to find the coast vacant of humans, Angel whispered, “Well, guess I’ve got it to myself today. But I’d rather have Lila walking with me. We have fun times down here, and whenever we see various shore birds, she teaches me interesting facts about them. (She’s unaware I can talk with them.) Whenever dolphins are in close to shore we stop and watch their water antics.” Angel paused and gazed into the horizon, and even with its indescribable beauty, Bryan’s hateful actions intruded her thoughts.

Shaking her head, she moved forward, toying with various ideas to bring Bryan’s anti-pet behavior to Lila’s attention. Maybe she should start growling and baring her teeth at him whenever the three of them were together when he made one of his many false statements about liking her so much. This new action might prompt Lila to wonder what was going on. But, even if it did, Angel was unsure how she would actually convey to Lila what was causing the unusual behavior. Oh how I wish I communicate with her. She quickly shelved the ‘growling at Bryan’s lies’ idea.

Watching several sandpipers chase out-going waves and digging little holes with their beaks, in search of food, the perfect plan entered Angel’s head as smoothly as gulls dive into the ocean. This creative idea would show Lila that when Bryan puppy-sat, he tied her outside for long periods of time. “Bingo! I’ll need Foxy’s help, but together we will get it done.”

With a new energy and optimistic goal, Angel broke into a trot through knee-deep water. Several minutes later a loud squawk sounded behind her. She turned to find a large seagull flying low and approaching. Angel paused and said, “Hey.”

As the big bird banked to her right, he replied, “Howdy, Angel! Good seeing you down here today. Where’s your nice lady friend?”

Angel watched him gracefully tuck his wings and touch down onto the sand like a butterfly with sore feet. “She’s away on business.”

“Oh. Hey, does she know you’re over here by yourself?”

Angel blinked her eyes, hoping to erase the puzzling feeling swirling in her brain. The tone of this meeting seemed mighty strange considering she’d never met this gull. He sure acts like he knows me. She replied, “Guess not, Gull. I mean, she can’t cause she’s not home…but you’re right, it’s my first solo trip.”

The grey and white gull strutted to the water’s edge and dipped his yellow beak in the white froth as it rolled onto the sand. “Well, that’s nice. Anyway, I stopped by to tell you there’s a large Husky down the coastline, eight wing flaps and one long glide from here, oops, I mean fifty yards ahead. He asked me to tell you he has something important to discuss with you.”

Angel’s thoughts spun like a top. “A Husky? Wants to talk to me? I don’t know any dogs down here, Gull. What’s his name?”

The gull raised and lowered his head as if nodding. “He didn’t say, but I did notice he has one blue eye and one brown eye, just like you. He seemed real nice. Okay, message delivered, I’ve got to fly, friend. There’s a large school of menhaden south of here. I’m starving. See you later, pooch.”

Still mystified about the strange encounter, Angel waved a paw as the big sea bird flapped his wings twice, and in the blink of an eye, vanished. “Never met him before, but somehow he knows my name. Oh well, I’ve got too much to deal with to worry about minor things. I’ll walk down a ways and check out this Husky who wants to talk with me.”

Angel calmly walked the fifty yards, carefully scanning the beach. Nary human or dog was anywhere to be seen. “I wonder if the gull was pulling my tail.” She sighed and continued forward for a few more yards. After several minutes she stopped, made a complete circle, and sat down on the warm sand. “I’ll wait a while and if the Husky doesn’t show, I’ll go home and work on my new plan to expose Bryan’s anti-dog behavior.” She aimed her gaze over the ocean and watched two dolphins frolicking in the swells.

“It’s so nice to meet you, Angel,” said a gentle, soothing voice from behind. She jumped to her feet and whipped around, wide-eyed.

“Don’t fret, little Angel. I’m your friend,” the large, silver and black Husky said, seeing the surprise in her eyes.

“Are you the one who wants to talk with me?”

The Husky nodded and settled on his haunches beside her. “Yes.”

“Do you know me?” she whispered.

“I do, but that’s a long story. Let’s just say we belong to the same family.”

Slowly, Angel’s mind flipped back to her mama’s words. ‘Our Husky line lived with the Native Americans in North Dakota. The wisest Husky had a blue eye and brown eye like you’. Trying not to be obvious, Angel stared into his soft eyes. Yep, that’s him. But, what in the world is he doing here? He must be real old.

“You’ve heard of me, haven’t you, Angel?”

She nodded, unable to voice the question burning the tip of her tongue.

“I’m figuring you’re a bit confused,” he said.

Angel replied, “More than a bit.”

A big paw reached forward and gently stroked her head. “The humans in the tribe referred to me as the Wise One. In my opinion, that was more credit than I deserved. I’d prefer you call me Husk.”

A relaxing feeling calmly settled on Angel like summer dew. “Husk?”

“Yes. Back in the day, I received that nickname from the other canines. I like it.”

“Okay, Husk. Why have you come to see me?”

The large dog’s eyes conveyed a kindheartedness and sincere concern. He nodded and replied, “I sensed you are facing a major problem and could use my help.”

If I thought meeting the seagull was confusing, I was wrong. This little event wins by a landslide. “You’re right. I feel helpless.”

Husk pushed up to his feet and said, “Let’s take a walk, little Angel.”

She followed suit and stood.

They moved into the shallow water and took up a slow gait. “I know you feel powerless, Angel, but if you’ll pay close attention to what I have to say, your problem will become as small as these grains of sand. Are you willing to listen to what I have to say?”

“I will do my best, Husk.”

“Good. As we approach any problem, the first step is to determine what outcome we’d like. Once that’s identified, it’s important for us to inspect the talents and skills we possess to see if this goal is attainable. Many times we jump headfirst, willy-nilly, into the situation before knowing our strengths. And before we realize it, we’re muzzle-deep in a more severe predicament. Angel, you have the needed skills to take control and turn this problem into a victory. Do you believe me?”

Angel nodded. “If you say so, Husk.”

The large husky stopped walking and sat, looking over the ocean. “When I was a young, silly pup, confusing and sometimes dangerous situations were my closest friends. In all honesty, most of them were created by my immaturity and desire to experience everything within reach. Thankfully the head medicine man of the tribe tired of rescuing me, so he put me under his supervision and patiently began instructing me on the deeper principles of life, not only for canines and other animals, but also for humans. Now, Angel, he was a very wise human. His teachings proved invaluable and assisted me to live a long productive life, along with being a positive influence to others.” He turned and his eyes locked with hers. “And, the truth is, you possess every facet of this knowledge. I’m here to show you how to use it.”

Husk’s gaze caused Angel to feel lightheaded. She tried to look away, but failed. His soft, ice-blue eye was locked onto hers. In slow motion, a warm sensation tingled up her spine, bringing what she could only describe as the transference of inner strength. This weird, yet wonderful feeling only lasted a few seconds. Suddenly, he blinked his eyes. She shuddered. Her ‘normal’ feeling instantly returned when the stare broke. The vast ocean again came into view.

Husk continued his slow, focused pace. Angel followed. “You’re now ready, little Angel, to face this problem and right it.”

“Okay, but did something just happen between us, Husk?”

He nodded. “Yes, something very special and beneficial to the many animals and humans you will meet during your lifetime. However, it’s my duty to inform you about the responsibility you now have with these new talents and skills. Angel, you are never to misuse any of your abilities to do harm to any animal or human. If this should happen, you will forever lose these special gifts. Do you promise to apply your abilities strictly for the betterment of others?”

Without fully comprehending the extent and depth of these new talents, Angel did understand the main premise of the responsibility. Use what you have for good. “Yes, Husk. I promise to use my abilities for the good of all.”

The big Husky stopped and raised his paw. Angel lifted hers and they touched. “I’m proud of you, Angel. I’ve watched many sunsets waiting for the opportunity to meet you face to face. You’re going to make a positive difference in the world, little Angel.”

Feeling a slow-growing clarity of this encounter with her wise ancestor, she inhaled the ocean fragrance and nodded. “Husk, I’ll do my best. I’m honored, and yet scared. Is that normal?”

Husk yipped. “Very much so, but knowledge and time will ease your fears. Now, share with me the details of your upsetting situation. Together we’ll come up with the proper way to handle it.”

Angel watched a small wave heading toward the beach, breaking from left to right. Her love was chasing the rolling white water, yipping at it. At Husk’s request, Bryan’s hateful actions surfaced and swirled inside her head like the undertow. She quickly deleted the minor ones while stacking the most hurtful, for easy reference. “Prior to Lila adopting me from the shelter, my life had become discombobulated. My first adoption placed me into a small doghouse inside a fenced in backyard. My human companions had very little to do with me. I guess you could say I was their guard dog. Within six months, my curious nature took over. I put my paws into gear. In two hours, a nice escape route under the fence was created, and used.” She cut her eyes at Husk, checking his reaction. There was none. Instead, he continued walking, silver-black ears peaked, listening.

“In short order I realized being on the lam was nowhere close to what I imagined it would be. Food and fresh water were practically impossible to come by. Even finding a comfortable, safe place to sleep became a major undertaking. I’ll never forget the lonely feeling hovering around me most every day, but always worse at night. The lack of human contact was the main element of my suffering. If there’s any basis to certain dogs being ‘people pooches’, I qualify.

“After a long six weeks of living the life of a gypsy dog, I was picked up by the uniformed men from Animal Control and taken to the city pound.” She paused and watched a sandfiddler crab scoot sideways across the damp sand. “My arrival at the overcrowded pound quickly showed me how much I missed my tiny backyard and drafty little house. My thoughts knotted up like seaweed,” she said, pointing a paw toward a pile on the beach.

Husk maintained his respectful focus and calmly replied, “Yep, we’re kin, Angel. I’ve spent time as a free-roaming dog. Continue please.”

Angel decided to skip the unpleasant events and bad behavior of the other dogs during her two weeks in the drab pound, and one week in the much nicer local SPCA. She resumed her story on that wonderful, blessed day Lila stopped in front of her cage, reached in, and softly stroked her head.

“After three weeks in captivity, my hopes for a kind human and a comfortable home had vanished like water on dry sand. Then one day my life changed. The sweet, loving Lila showed up, adopted me, and took me home with her.” Angel stopped walking and pawed her moist eyes. “Sorry, Husk. I shed happy tears when I think about my special day.”

Husk nodded. “Understood and completely normal.”

“Lila took me in and we bonded faster than I can devour a hamburger. We spent hours over here on the beach, running, playing in the water, and observing all of the wildlife and water mammals. Looking back, I’m thankful to have endured and survived my time on the lam and the time in the pound and shelter. I now realize if not for landing in the shelter, I’d have never met this wonderful lady.”

“It’s been said we develop a deeper appreciation of life when we’ve experienced and traveled its bumpy road. I also believe once we’ve been rescued from a harsh situation, our desire to assist others greatly increases. Now, let me hear about the root of your problem.”

Warm wonderful feelings of Lila’s love filled Angel’s being, so to accurately describe and discuss Bryan’s negative actions would require a change in her attitude. “I’ll be right back, Husk.” She broke into a trot toward the water. A wave broke in front of her. In a flash Angel bounded up and over the breaker and started swimming parallel to the coastline. After a couple of minutes she caught the next wave and rode it to shore. She executed the perfected ‘body shake’ and rejoined Husk. “Now my head’s clear. I can talk about Bryan.”

Husk yipped.

“Please don’t think of me as selfish, Husk, but suddenly, after having Lila to myself for a year, Bryan entered our lives. Even before I met him, I knew she was head over heels about a guy she met at a social function. I hope it’s not wrong to eavesdrop on her phone calls to friends, because that’s how I first heard about him. According to what she told others, his appearance and personality instantly captured her. And honestly, I was a bit excited and hopeful that maybe this fellow might love pooches like Lila, and if so, I would be the recipient of double attention. Oh, but after meeting him, I found my hopes and expectations were fruitless.”

Husk nodded. “I’m sure you wouldn’t deny Lila the opportunity to have a man in her life that makes her happy. That’s a very sought after goal for most humans. However, even in the best of circumstances, I realize the addition of another human into the enjoyable life you two had could be traumatic. So, am I to assume Bryan is not a dog lover?”

“Correct, Husk. Now, I’m pretty opinionated, so what I am going to say might sound harsh, but I need to get it off my chest. Bryan is very enamored with his appearance and is in love with himself. Period.”

Husk shook his large furry head while observing two small seagulls maneuver several dips and slices and then dive into the ocean, each coming up with a small, minnow-sized fish. As they flew off, he replied, “Angel, I’d say you’re about to climb a big mountain. Don’t misunderstand me, it’s doable, but we will need to pull out all the stops if we attempt to alter Bryan’s deeply-rooted ego. Give me a couple examples of his behavior toward you.”

Angel scrolled through her memory bank over the past three months, deciding to select only one example from the minor category affecting both her and Lila. And one from the major category affecting only her, during the ‘alone’ times with Bryan. Angel always handled his childish actions and sly remarks when the three of them were together because she drew strength and love from Lila. However, there were times that Lila noticed Bryan’s actions and snide remarks, no matter how sneaky he thought he was being. Angel knew it upset Lila. And upsetting Lila was unacceptable. The kind-hearted lover of animals who rescued her did not deserve that type of treatment. But when she and Bryan were alone, he upped his meanness.

“Husk, I’ll try to sort Bryan’s actions from the smallest, which I could probably learn to stomach, up to the most severe – those I feel come very close to abuse. If I’m over-reacting, please let me know.” Angel set down on her haunches, facing the ocean, and watched two clouds veil the bright summer sun. Recalling these hurtful actions from the hidden place in her mind would not be pleasant. I guess it’s like stepping on a sand spur. It hurts when you step on it, and then when you remove it, but that’s the only way it will get better.

“My main concern is how you feel about the unpleasant treatment Bryan’s throwing your way. Speak freely, little one.”

Angel took a refreshing breath of sea breeze. “Bryan’s subtle actions began within the first hour after Lila introduced me to him. I’ve known, for most of my life, that I possessed the unique ability to decipher human’s true feelings toward me. Honestly, Bryan began in a negative mode, which proved my assumption to be correct.

“So, because of Lila’s excitement, I was friendly and gentle toward him. No jumping, licking, or barking. After we were introduced, he gave me a long stare, lightly touched my head, and then turned away. That’s cool, maybe it would take him a while to warm up to a new pooch.” Angel yipped. “But now that I know him, I’ll never live long enough to see him get past the freezing mark.

“Anyway, I also understood Bryan had come to the beach to visit Lila, so I decided to lay low. Of course, Lila continued making over me and bragging to him on how smart I was. He couldn’t care less, Husk. Basically I was invisible to him. Okay, no problem. I’m a tough pooch.”

Husk gazed at Angel with sincere eyes. “You do understand that not all humans are animal lovers, and that doesn’t make them bad people.”

Angel nodded. “I agree, Husk. However, there’s a major difference when a human goes out of their way to humiliate, verbally and physically, to show their dislike toward an animal who happens to be in their sphere. In other words, Bryan considered me a hindrance to the relationship between him and Lila. Do you agree?”

Husk looked down and nodded.

“Good. At least I don’t feel like I’ve entered Nutville. Anyway, several times when Lila was out of the room, Bryan would make ugly faces at me and quickly jump in my direction, attempting what he perceived to be a growl. He’d whisper, ‘Get away from me you flea-bitten mutt. I detest any animal that licks their ass’. It was then my world clouded, knowing this guy was not for me. But because of my love for Lila, I would suck it up, move to another part of the room, and take a nap.”

“Looks like Bryan didn’t waste any time marking his territory, did he?”

Angel nodded. “Instantly. And whenever Lila invited friends down for a cookout, she enjoyed having me around. Well, Bryan mumbled and complained about it so much, I finally found myself locked in a bedroom. So, to keep Bryan happy, Lila sacrificed having me mingle with her friends. But, Husk, her eyes clearly showed how badly this hurt her. After the party, when Bryan left, she would give me treats and make over me and constantly apologize. Her heart was broken.” Angel looked down and sighed. “I felt responsible for her pain and sadness.”

“Did Bryan ever strike you, Angel?”

“Yes, well not in a hurtful manner, mostly with a hand shove or a light foot push to get me off of the couch or farther away from him. Now, a couple of times he’s raised his hand and leaned forward as if he was going to slap me, but he never did. Of course, I didn’t take a chance and always scooted out of his reach. They say eyes are the windows to the soul. Well, I’ve never seen ‘friendly’ in his. The strange thing is when he holds Lila and whispers to her, his eyes would melt butter. I’ve often wondered if there were two humans living in his pudgy, perfectly-clothed body.” Angel yipped.

Husk replied, “I’m glad to hear he’s not actually hit you, but even a rude shove is not a good sign. Remember, humans with attitude problems toward animals operate on a hair-trigger. I recommend whenever you feel his actions might turn physical, stay clear of him, and never trap yourself in a corner.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Okay, now here’s the worst part of Bryan’s anti-dog behavior. You tell me if it crosses the line into animal abuse. When Lila adopted me from the shelter, we hit it off like a dog and a bone. She worked in Virginia Beach with a large, national restaurant chain specializing in first-quality steaks. I know because we enjoyed a lot of delicious beef. Anyway, she was eventually promoted to regional auditor, and once or twice each month she was required to travel south to other states. Normally these trips took from two to three days. The neat thing was she would reserve a motel that allowed dogs. I think that’s so sweet. Well, we had so much fun. I loved strolling around new areas, sniffing new aromas, and seeing new sights. I mean, we lived at the beach, but then we’d take cool trips to various fun places. Husk, life was great.”

Husk nodded. “Sure sounds like fun. I’m figuring these trips came to a halt.”

“Yes, they came to a screeching halt after Bryan, the sneaky insurance-selling weasel, appeared on the scene.” Angel dropped her head and released a deep sigh. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have thrown in that little dig. But, I’m not sorry about saying he’s sneaky.”

“I understand.” Husk let out a small yip. “It’s a good way to release pent-up feelings. Perfectly natural. Continue, please.”

Not wanting to sound too desperate or whiny, Angel chose to share only a couple of Bryan’s hurtful deeds. His first one came about within two hours of Lila’s departure for Georgia one Sunday afternoon. Recalling this horrible action brought back hair-raising fears.

“The first time Lila allowed Bryan to puppy-sit turned ugly, quick. Her two-day trip to Atlanta became a nightmare I’ll never forget. She wasn’t gone more than an hour before several of his friends showed up for a party. Of course, I greeted them in a gentle, friendly way, knowing one wrong move and Bryan would be ticked off. A couple of them made over me and commented on my blue eye and how well-behaved I was. Their compliments went over Bryan’s head like the arrow slicing the apple on William Tell’s head. He made some rude comment about me being an ass-licker, and then rushed over and hunted through my basket of doggie supplies. In less than a minute, he roped me with the choke chain. “Come on, mutt. You’re going out to pee before I put you away for a nap.” Angel pawed her neck as if the pain was still felt. “Now, get this, Husk. When Lila first got me, I’ll admit, I was a tad on the feisty side. I loved to run, especially on the beach. After Lila patiently applied daily lessons and commands, my antics reduced. She then purchased a blue chest halter for me. This was much more comfortable, and attractive. So, I behaved in lieu of the throat-squeezing pain brought on by myself. Well, one day she bragged to Bryan about how well I did with the new halter. I remember he made some mumbling remark about choke collars being invented to show dogs who the boss was.

“The entire time Bryan choked and drug me down the stairs, he bad-mouthed me. He said if it was up to him, he’d take me for a long ride and toss me out, after removing the ID tag from my collar. So, after I did my business, he pulled me upstairs and locked me in the hall closet with a coffee cup of water. ‘Now, if you’re half as smart as Lila claims, you best keep your mouth shut, mutt!’” Angel shuddered and dropped her head.

Husk took a deep, chest-expanding breath and released a deep sigh. “I get the picture, little one. Give me one more example of this despicable behavior. I know it’s hard, so let’s keep it short.”

Relief washed over Angel like a summer sunrise, thankful to omit the emotional torture she endured for six hours in the closet and total darkness. After swallowing a dry lump in her throat, she said, “Thank you, Husk. Anyway, the closet treatment continued whenever his friends visited, which usually happened at least one day during Lila’s absence. No matter how many times it took place, I never got used to it.

“For the past two months, his hateful technique is to stake me outside, whether or not he has friends coming over. He feeds me out there and halfway keeps my water bowl filled. I’ve even been left out for twenty-four hours. Some days go by and I have no idea if he’s home or not. Husk, the heat is unbearable, and feeling unwanted is emotionally painful. I’ve tried so hard to be the best pooch I can for Lila. And, I know to Bryan, I’m worthless, but Lila’s the only reason I’ve endured his punishment.” A heartbreaking sting accented Angel’s words.

Husk quickly raised his paw. “Enough, Angel,” he whispered. He slipped over and stroked her silky black fur. “I’ve heard all I need to hear, little one.” They sat in silence for several minutes enjoying the soothing rhythm of crashing waves.

The ancient Husky stood, took a majestic pose, and stared into the clearing sky. While the sun peeked around the cloud’s edge, he whispered, “Yes, this human’s behavior is animal abuse. Pay close attention to me, Angel. My proposal for his conversion treatment will do one of two things: Either totally change his attitude and behavior toward animals, or: he will go mad. Remember, the choice is his, not yours.”

Angel heard severity and determination in Husk’s voice. She nodded slowly.

“Now, little one, for us to get our procedure underway requires your serious, dedicated attention and performance. Time will be a major factor since Bryan doesn’t spend the night here unless he’s watching you.” Husk yipped. “Watching you, my furry butt. Forgive my poor use of words.”

“So he needs to be spending the night here for this to work?”

Husk nodded. “Yes. We will work through his subconscious while he’s asleep. When did you say Lila returns?”

“Tomorrow afternoon,” replied Angel.

“I suggest we plan and implement immediately. No positive benefit in putting it off. Are you ready?”

Angel took a deep breath, realizing to fix the problem would be serious business. “It’s midday now, Husk. So, you want me to do it tonight?”

Husk yipped twice. “Little one, it’s only noon here. When you return it will be three am. You will be executing ‘blue eye magic’ on Bryan before sunrise. Understand?”

Angel nodded, staring at him with wide-open eyes.

“Don’t fret, special one. You’ll have sufficient time, and all of the ‘how-to’s’ will come to you as you need them. Also, you’re not to share the details of this operation with anyone, before or after. That includes Lila. Understand?”

“You mean even if this all turns out for the good, I still can’t tell Lila?”

Husk nodded, never taking his eyes from hers.

“Will you be with me?”

“No, not in the sense you mean. I’m not permitted to interfere; however, I will be overseeing the operation, as will you. Now, relax, open your mind, and listen very carefully to my instructions. If Bryan does half as well as you will, he’ll come out of this a changed man. If not, his life will be miserable. Time will tell, Angel. Ready?”

“I’ll do my best, Husk, and focus my determination on Lila and our happiness. With that driving me, I will succeed. Lay out my duties, Wise One.”

“Absorb what I’m going to say and don’t question anything. This unique procedure is proven and has been used successfully for generations. Time to learn ‘blue eye magic’, Angel.”

Angel settled into the sand and closed her eyes. “I’m ready.”

- - -

A light breeze drifted over Angel, gently waking her. She slowly opened her eyes, finding her surroundings illuminated by the full ivory moon, settling in the west. A pleasant aroma tickled her nose.

“Welcome back, Angel,” whispered Foxy.

After a long yawn and pawing her eyes, Angel replied, “Wow! That was some dream, friend.”

Foxy yipped. “I figured as much. You were twitching and yipping while your paws flipped and flapped. It’s good I brought you something to eat. You’ve gotta be hungry.” He picked up the grilled chicken carcass in his mouth and eased down the dune. “Some lip-smacking vittles, girl.”

Angel stood on wobbly legs. “Thanks, Foxy, I knew I smelled chicken. I’ll eat a piece or two, but honestly, I’m too keyed up to eat much.”

The large red fox placed the remains of the chicken in front of her. “My luck was good tonight. A group of humans tossed this beauty over the side of their deck. Lot of meat left on it, too. Help yourself and tell me about this dream.”

Angel pulled a slab of meat from the thigh area and swallowed it. “Delicious.” She moved over and lapped warm water from her bowl. Husk’s words about keeping the mission a secret danced in her head. Well, the plan I came up with, before meeting Husk, doesn’t fall into the realm of secrecy. Besides, I need Foxy’s help me get inside with Bryan. “Lila has no clue that Bryan’s leaving me out here for long periods of time. So, I’ve devised a plan to leave a sign for her. She’s smart and will pick up on it.”

Foxy chomped into the breast bone and devoured it with three loud crunches. “A sign?”

“Yeah. Lila will never know unless I show her. I need your help, buddy.”

Pawing grease from his muzzle, Foxy nodded. “You got it. What are we gonna do?”

“Dig holes…lots of them.”

Foxy looked at her, tilting his head slightly to the right. “Holes?”

“Sure, it’s perfect. When Lila comes home and finds a bunch of holes in the sand, she’ll wonder when I’d have time to dig them. And stupid Bryan won’t pay attention to them.”

Foxy nodded. “Sounds pretty good, Angel. You ready to start?”

“Let’s do this thing, friend.”

They dug in; literally. After throwing sand on each other for a minute or so, they quickly realized proper positioning was essential. Once they situated themselves head-to-head, they kicked the mission into high gear. In thirty minutes they stopped and found themselves surrounded by over twenty-five basketball-sized holes averaging a foot deep. “Well, if Lila misses our artwork, she needs glasses,” Foxy said in quick breaths.

Angel scanned the area. “Looks like a big slice of sandy Swiss cheese. Sure hope she doesn’t come out when it’s dark…she would surely step in one and fall.”

“No problem. You can prevent that when she comes home this afternoon.”

“How?” asked Angel.

“Easy. Before it gets dark, act like you’ve got to go out to do your business. Don’t worry, she’ll see them. Boy, I’d like to see her reaction, and then hear Bryan’s reason why you’ve been out here long enough to create this.”

Angel yipped. “Good idea, Foxy. But don’t automatically figure Bryan not to have the perfect excuse. That weasel is so slick he could slither under a door at Fort Knox.”

Foxy yipped. “You’re funny, Angel. So, guess we’ll wait until Lila gets home to see if your plan is successful.”

Eyeing the moon, Angel estimated the time to be nearing four a.m. Her focus switched to getting inside. This maneuver would take them working in unison to wake Bryan and aggravate him enough to come down and drag her inside. Her worst fear was being shoved into the hall closet for punishment, which would totally stop the progress of the most important part of the plan. I’ll cross that bridge if I get to it.

“I need your assistance for one more key element, Foxy. You up for it?”

“Is a bullfrog waterproof?” Foxy released several yips, rolled onto his back, and waved his paws in the air.

“Sounds like a ‘yes’ to me,” replied Angel, shaking her head. “The goal is to get me inside as quickly as possible. To do that, we must wake Bryan. So, the best method is to create lots of noise. Now, if I began barking it wouldn’t produce the desired outcome since I’m down here on the far side of the cottage. Bryan would only cover his head with the pillow and ignore me. But, if a particular fox happens to station himself beneath the bedroom window and howl with that high-pitch whine he’s famous for…now we’re talking. To spice it up, I’ll join in. Between the two of us, pal, we’ll create a serenade guaranteed to split Bryan’s head.”

Foxy practiced a low whine and paused. “Like that but louder?”

“Bingo. As loud as you can produce. And, Foxy, you know loud barks come natural for me, so I’m sure our duet will not be pleasant music to his ears.”

Foxy swatted at a persistent mosquito. “Angel, why do you want to get inside with that nut? At least out here you can sleep peacefully. Besides, Bryan will not be Mr. Happy after we wake him and he comes down to fetch you. You could be asking for trouble, girl.”

The complicated, yet very creative plan Husk had laid out scrolled slowly through her mind. If everything rolled out correctly, the trouble would be Bryan’s…and his alone. From Angel’s perspective, the tricky part would be keeping him awake and focused long enough for her to slap the ‘blue eye’ spell on him. Then he would be free to go back to sleep.

“Naw, I’m not worried, Foxy. Once I’m inside, he’s all mine.”

Foxy leaned forward, eyes open wide. “You’re not planning on attacking him are you?”

“No, nothing like that.” She yipped. “I wouldn’t think of putting my clean teeth into his nasty neck.” They both yipped.

“Well, what are you going to do?”

Angel slowly shook her head. “Sorry, friend, I’m not at liberty to say.”

“Ooh. Something smells fishy, girl. Hey, wait a second. Would this secret plan have anything to do with the wild dream you mentioned?”

Angel yipped. “Come on, Foxy. You know dreams aren’t real. Anyway, let’s stop yapping and get our concert underway and get me upstairs. Don’t you worry. Everything will work out smooth as glass. Now, go around the corner and start your ear-splitting howls. When you pause, I’ll answer with eardrum-piercing barks. Got it?”

“Yep. Do you want me to stop howling after Bryan drags you inside?”

“Please. After I’m in for ten to fifteen minutes, he must go back to sleep for the plan to work.” Angel stood and raised her large tan paw. When they touched, she said, “Thank you, Foxy. I really appreciate your help.”

“You’re welcome, friend. We animals have to stick together. See you later today.”

Angel watched her majestic, furry friend disappear around the corner. Butterflies and tense muscles invaded her body. This procedure would prove to be a real test, in more ways than one. Even though, to Angel, trying to comprehend the complete operation looked more like a pile of jigsaw puzzle pieces. But, she trusted the wise Husky enough to believe if she did everything one piece at a time, the finished product would be worthwhile. I’m doing this for me and Lila.

The distant sound of waves slapping the shoreline was suddenly replaced by a loud, heart-stopping howl. The fur on Angel’s back stood on end like quills. Oh my, that’s creepy. She waited several seconds before releasing three deep barks. She paused, and then sent two more into the early morning sky.

Foxy answered with one long high-pitched cry, sharp enough to splinter crystal. The shrillness pierced Angel’s sensitive ears, covering her body with chills. She shuddered and replied by adding three jagged, rapid-fire barks followed by a deep baying. I’ll bet Bryan is now cussing and covering his head. Sure hope the pillow doesn’t mess up his hair-do. Angel yipped.

In the middle of Foxy’s next stanza of his ‘song of nature’, the bedroom light splashed into the darkness. As Foxy ended the double howl, Bryan’s muffled voice quickly sounded behind it, “Shut the hell up!”

After Angel yipped twice, she aimed her head up and sent a loud growl skyward, followed by four ear-puncturing yips. Hey, I like that little ditty. It’s got nice rhythm. She heard the bedroom window squeak as it went up. “Get outta here, you flea-bitten fox!”

Foxy hollered, “Hey, Angel…we’re getting to him, girl.”

“Bingo!” Angel took a deep breath, arched her back and fired off five of the loudest barks she’d ever produced. Those will get his attention. Even made my ears ache.

In the middle of Foxy’s double-yelp reply, the backdoor light flashed on. Bryan snatched open the door. His frightening appearance – twisted face, red, wild eyes, and very-mussed mop of hair filled her every nerve with fear. He stomped over to the piling and grabbed the rope. In a daze, Angel slowly backed up. “Get over here, bitch! You’ve got that damn rabid fox wound up tonight.” Snatching hard and reeling in the rope brought a now unwilling Angel toward him. “Come on, you’re going inside! If that fox don’t shut up…I’ll get my .38 pistol from the car and blow his damn head off. Let’s go!”

Angel’s once positive thoughts suddenly became infiltrated with seeds of doubt. She struggled, trying to get her feet moving fast enough to keep Bryan from choking life from her. Using the remaining air in her lungs, she hollered, “No more, Foxy! We’re good!” Her friend didn’t deserve to be shot for helping. As her tail barely crossed the threshold, Bryan forcefully kicked the door closed, shattering the glass. “Now look what you’ve made me do, you worthless mutt. I should shoot both of you!”

Angel’s legs folded like tissue paper. After falling to the cool tile floor, she closed her eyes. Her next feeling came in the form of a hard kick to her stomach. “Get up!”

With quick gasps, fresh air entered her lungs. Her dizziness faded like darkness at dawn. Bryan’s bare foot steadily jabbed her in the ribs. “Let’s go! You’re going to the closet!”

Angel pooled every last ounce of strength and pushed up on trembling legs. As she moved slowly up the stairs, Bryan continued shoving her from behind with his fist. “Hurry up! I’m tired.”

When they reached the top floor, the broken dog automatically turned the corner and walked toward the tiny closet. The heat and heavy barking had taken a toll on her throat, but water would have to wait…to prevent being kicked in the belly again. She eyes her water bowl as she passed by.

Bryan opened the door. “Move!”

Head down, Angel shuddered and entered.

“See, the damn fox shut up after you quit agitating him. You’re nothing but a troublemaker. I’m tempted to shoot, then bury you, and concoct a ‘run-away’ story for Lila. She’d believe me.” An evil laugh chilled her blood as he slammed the door.

Angel sighed and eased her aching body down, placing her head on Lila’s favorite flip-flops. Yeah, Mr. Asinine, if anyone gets shot tonight, it will be you…hit with my ‘blue eye’. I will not give up.

Doubt and fear meshed their way into Angel’s focus while pondering the important mission to improve life for herself and Lila. Only minutes ago, Bryan’s actions and threats revealed his dark side. Now she wondered if Husk’s optimistic plan to change Bryan’s behavior even stood a chance. Maybe if Husk knew the real intensity of Bryan’s hatred for her, his suggestion would be – take whatever Bryan served up and hope for the best, or just give up and run away in search of a better life. Another question, even more pressing, rattled around in her confused thoughts. Since Bryan found it acceptable to mistreat an innocent animal, what were the chances Lila could find herself on the receiving end of his cruel treatment? Especially if she accidently did something to upset him? After all, in human time, they’d only known each other for three months. Angel recalled her first home, and how quickly the newness of loving and caring for a puppy waned.

One truth was evident. Continuing with tonight’s plan, or for that matter any night, would be risking her life. There was no doubt Bryan was capable of delivering on his threat. For the first time since meeting him, she finally got a quick glimpse into his soul, and it wasn’t good. If I choose to tuck tail and run away, Lila will be left alone without really knowing him. Choosing to cower and do nothing only prolongs my abuse, and eventually his subtle actions and remarks will act as silent torture for Lila. Angel took a deep breath; Lila’s familiar scent from her flip-flops helped with her decision.

The first bark carried with it most, but not all, of her anger and frustration. It exploded outward but still resonated loudly inside the small closet. Her second, following closely, came in three quick bursts. She paused and settled on her haunches. No more cowering. No more drooped head. Her actions, from here out, would be fueled by her unconditional love for the one who saved her life.

“Shut the hell up!”

With no concern for the door’s interior, Angel raked her front claws up and down while adding two deep howls and a shrill bark. She continued clawing. The loud stomping of footsteps on hardwood, sounded. Here he comes. It’s showtime!

Bryan kicked the door before snatching it open. Angel responded with another series of ear-splitting barks as the bedroom light spilled into the room. “I told you to shut up! You want a beating?” With glaring eyes, Angel continued barking. When Bryan’s hand shot up, she darted past him and into Lila’s bedroom, and lay down beside the chair, facing the bed. Okay, step one…let’s see what he does now.

Within seconds, the angry man stormed into the room, pulling up short, three feet in front of her. “You’re crazy! Now get out of here and go into the living room.”

Angel remained motionless and kept her eyes locked, undaunted by his gruff words. We’ll see who flinches first.

Bryan shook his head and took a quick step toward her. Instantly, Angel’s top lip rolled up, exposing large, white canine teeth. A low growl crawled up and out from deep within her chest. His red-rimmed eyes opened wide. He froze. “You’re pushing your luck, mutt! Now get out of here…I don’t give a damn where you sleep. Get!”

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