64 - Back Home Again

When Ren regained consciousness, he was back at home and in his own bed. It hurt all over.

Daddy? A soft voice called and Shadow nudged Ren's face with his little wet nose.

"Hello, my little Shadow," Ren whispered. "What's happening?"

Shadow's big golden eyes were misty. Daddy hurt?

Ren couldn't deny it, but he raised his bandaged hand and rubbed the little pup's grey fur gently. "What have you been up to while I was gone? Did Papa and Uncle Pax give you nice treats?" he asked softly.

At the mention of treats, the puppy's attention was successfully diverted.

Ren sat up gingerly and smiled wryly. This situation was getting a little too repetitive for his comfort, he thought to himself. The original Ren-the-villain had not been in the habit of fainting or getting injured this often, for sure!