Sand Man Calling

Wallace Stayed in fox form as we headed back to the village. He had shredded his clothes and didn't have another set. He also refused to let me walk back. I am currently riding on his back which I don't mind as much as Orpheus if his scowl indicates anything. Riding on Wallace's softback was better than walking 30 minutes again.

I was ready to get back and get some sleep. A comfy bed was what I wanted but I had a hunch that this world doesn't have matrices. Anything was better than the hard cave floor from last night though.

When we finally got to the village Orpheus helped me off Wallace's back. Once on my feet, I stretched out feeling stiff. We had stopped by a hut that Wallace had disappeared into. When he returned he had a new fur on and looked awkward scratching the back of his head. "You are probably tired. I made up a bed for you if you need it. I can sleep outside if you feel more comfortable." He was looking everywhere but at me. The whole father-daughter thing was awkward for us both but I could tell he was trying. "When you wake up tomorrow we can talk. That's if you want." He put his hands up like he overstepped.

I gave him my best smile though a little weak. I was having a hard time keeping my eyes open at this point. "That sounds nice. Honestly, I feel I will be asleep the moment I lay down. I think we both have many questions but they can wait till morning." His smile was back and he motioned toward the door. I went to step forward but a hand grabbed my arm. I turned to look at Orpheus.

"Can I come to see you tomorrow?" He looked at me like an uncertain puppy.

That look gave me butterflies. "Yes, definitely, I mean that will be nice." Get your words straight girl, ugg. I smiled while mentally kicking myself.

He perked up. "I will see you around noon then." he turned away then turned back quickly."Oh and if you want to visit me before that my huts there." He pointed to a hut nearby proudly. It was twice the size of Wallace's and had a fence around the whole thing. In the dark, I couldn't tell where the gate or entrance was. He waved and walked off with a smile.

I turned back toward Wallace who watched Orpheus with a stern look. Orpheus said Wallace raised him yet they didn't seem to get along. "What's up with you too."

Wallace sighed "He and I had a fight a while back. He wanted to leave the village and find females for us. I told him if the males want one they can go to the Tiger city themselves. I thought he told me his real reason for wanting to go that way but he threw punches instead." He shook his head. "He is strong but that doesn't mean solving problems with your fists. It should be a last resort." He looked at the sky. "I worry about him." He sighed and pointed at the hut. "That's enough talk, time for bed youngster. Even a pup can tell you can barely keep yourself up." He shocked me by kissing me on the forehead before heading toward the back of the hut.

It was strange how he made me feel… safe even though I only knew him for a few hours. Is this what having a Dad is supposed to make you feel? Slight tears came to my eyes. Wiping them away I walked into the hut.

In the middle of the hut was a small fire making it nice and warm inside. To the back left was a pile fur onto what looked like straw. I walked over and took my coat and boots. Setting them aside I curled up between the furs. The Sandman took me the moment I closed my eyes.