34 comments/ 115330 views/ 22 favorites M.I.K.E. By: doormouse Sitting bolt upright in bed I take deep calming breaths, my knuckles white as I grip the sheets beneath me. Closing my eyes I rock gently, telling myself repeatedly that it's okay. Still, I feel the headache building, threatening to engulf my skull and crush it in a pounding frenzy. 'Not again,' I whisper as I cup my face to my hands, inhaling deeply as I fight back the tears that are building and stinging my eyes. It's always the same, over and over I can see the images flickering like I'm reliving a waking nightmare every time I close my eyes. The voices resounding in my head, and that laugh... A shiver charges up my spine as I hear that laugh echoing, bouncing from the deep recesses of my mind. That high pitched, gargling laugh, as though it mocks my fear, thrives and grows stronger as I cry against the agony of its claws as they tear open my flesh. Panic stricken I clench my hands to my back, still feeling the pain yet my skin is intact. It started a little over a month ago. The dreams. They're so real, so hauntingly real. I can feel the icy touch of its bony fingers touching me, every detail relived over and over again. The stench of its breath still stinging my nostrils as the rancid odor furrows its way inside my nostrils causing me to gag and my eyes to water. These are more than dreams, they have to be. I can still taste the bitterness of its breath, the string of saliva swayed, hanging from its trembling gnarling mouth as it stood over me, dripping, burning my tongue as it falls. My mouth open unable to scream, my voice a bare whisper as my throat burns, my lungs heaving against its weight. The sneer as its lip curls revealing its yellow fang like teeth and the stalactite red stains falling from the crimson gums, streaking their way down to the points of its teeth. I'd only been volunteering at the clinic for a few months when the shipment arrived. The heavily armored vehicle echoed through the vast emptiness of the receiving dock as its reverse beacon sounded, the 'beep beep beep' sounding like it was blasting through a magnitude of speakers. It had been a slow afternoon, only the Thompson's Siamese cat recovering from the castration surgery to fill a dull void in my day. Cleaning the weeping stitches taking me almost an hour as I pass the time, hoping for an emergency or anything to make this day less dull. Michael, the young trainee had left for the day, so I was left with Dr.Jon Anderson, or Jon as he likes me to call him. Not that I don't like Jon, I do, it's just that Michael brightens my day in more ways than one, if you know what I mean. Michael. He's six foot of lean, masculine testosterone that just screams 'sex appeal'. His dark hair and eyes have me spell bound every time I look at him. His smile has me weak at the knees, even the mere thought of his smiling face sends a small quake building deep inside. When he wears that white coat he looks so distinguished with the stethoscope slung around his neck, the pen and pad obtrusively poking out from his pocket. Even the way he absentmindedly scratches at his neatly trimmed goatee makes me yearn, unable to avert my gaze as he watches Jon intently, occasionally scribbling notes in his pad. He's in his final year before graduation from veterinarian school, so 'hands on' around the clinic, which I know Jon appreciates, especially during the busy periods. I know I appreciate his hands on approach, but only in my fantasies. I think I'd die of embarrassment if Michael even suspected my desire toward him. My stolen glances and silent sighs have gone unnoticed thus far, and as far as I'm concerned they can stay that way! Our clinic has been chosen for this shipment because of our isolation cages, and the fact that we operate near the airport. The clinic is prone to accepting many animals destined for quarantine after being discovered in luggage of smugglers from countries known for their rabies and the many varied diseases their beasts seemed to harbor. This case was no different. As the forklift raises its pronged arms into the pallet, I begin to wonder how anybody could possibly be so cruel to encase any animal as inhumanly. Through the vented wooden box his deep breaths sound ragged, as though he struggles for each and every intake of air. My heart goes out to him. As the box is gently lowered to the ground, we adorn our safety gear. Even after we finish the grueling showers and vigorous scrubbing, it almost seems worth the pain of the relentless brushes, bruising and burning my skin each time an animal survives. 'Clyde' as he is affectionately known, named after the bloodhound that sniffed him out from the millions of cases that went through customs that day, lays still. Still in the zippered case he was discovered in, he stays motionless. The bag raising ever so slowly as he exhales before lowering again, the nylon sucking against the outline of his rounded mouth as he breathes in. My heart races as we near the crate, bracing myself for what I may see. Animals that have endured as many hours in such a confined space normally don't survive, and those that do are normally so dehydrated and starved of oxygen, their features are sometimes distorted beyond recognition from being bound for so long. As the truck moves toward the sterilization bay, I spot the man from quarantine for the first time. Lowering his glasses down the bridge of his nose, I feel his eyes gaze upon me. From behind me I can hear the muffled cough of Jon clearing his throat, a silent command known only between he and I of his disapproval at the intrusion from government officials invading his 'home'. The clinic is more than a home for Jon, he lives and breathes this place. I don't think I've ever seen another individual so totally engrossed in their work. He prides himself in every detail, be it minor or major, things have to be done precisely by the book. Sterility being his main concentration, each of us washing our hands at every available opportunity, abiding ourselves by his rules. Not such a big deal, I mean he doesn't ask for much. The perks of working for somebody like Jon far outweigh the disadvantages we have to put up with. Looking at my chapped weak fingernails caused by the endless scrubbing, seems a small price to pay for the pleasures received in reward for my dedication. The lines etched deep around his eyes the only evidence of his troubled life. Being left an only child at a tender age, Jon had learned the hard way about the cruel realities of life. His only brother having been savagely attacked by an unrestrained dog, died in his arms before any help could arrive. They'd been playing in the park at Jon's insistence, Anthony preferring to sit and catch up on his latest video game, reluctantly took his younger brother to the park to stop the incessant nagging. Like something out of a nightmare the dog had lunged, sinking its razor sharp teeth into his brother's jugular, his gurgled cries lasting moments, but seeming like an eternity as Jon relives the sounds of his brother's last dying pleas, over and over in his sweat provoking nightmares. The memory haunting him for endless years before he gained the courage to study veterinarian science to help overcome his fears. It was only through his studies in college that he now better understood the animal psychology associated with such random attacks of violence against the human species. In fact, he'd grown to love and respect canines in an almost unnatural way, almost to the point of obsession. His surgery, named after his dead brother, 'Anthony's Animal Mechanics' reads proudly above the entrance, and also on the placard in the luscious garden out front. The threat of infectious diseases entering Australian territories through illegal smuggling is all too real. Quarantine laws are at their strictest when species are found through the meticulous scrutinizing of the well trained 'sniffer squad' as they are affectionately known amongst their trainers. Here we wait for the heavy iron door to drop before we can even think of opening the crate. Airport security had seized the baggage and as necessary precaution, the animal had been enclosed in the purposefully built crate for its, and our own protection. Fear can make even the most docile of animals lash out when they feel threatened or thrown into an unknown situation. For most of the animals brought here, they are plucked from the sanctity of their jungle homes, shoved in cages and then forced to suffer one of the cruelest plights any living creature could ever endure. Starvation and near suffocation as they are crammed into tight boxes, bags, anything to avoid detection as their captors pass through airport security. Of course, the illegal smuggling rings don't stop at the airport, but for us they do. The clinic itself isn't anything spectacular. The building was originally used as a Doctor's practice so modifications were minimal to accommodate for the animals. The two back rooms had their dividing wall removed so the room could be set up for the recovery cages, but other than that, the building remained the same. It had only been within the last two years that Jon had acquired the adjacent property, which he had converted to the now, isolation area. The sterile benches spanning the length of one wall making the room seem like more of a laboratory, rather than a room to treat animals. The shiny metal bench tops cleaned meticulously, and the white tiled floors mopped to a superior sheen. It is in here that Clyde will spend the next twelve weeks, that is, if he survives that long. Taking the crow bar, Jon carefully prises up one side of the crate. The creaking of the wood as the nails ease their way from its vice echoes throughout the vacant walls of the receiving dock. Moving to the next corner, he wedges the bar between the lid and sides and levers slowly, the corner raising an inch as he works the nails free. As we have not been informed on the condition of the animal, knowing only that he's a primate, Jon works with caution. Nodding at me, I move toward a corner and help Jon raise the lid. With a look of discerning interest, the quarantine inspector leans his hooked nose over the lip of the crate, his pale blue eyes devoid of any indication to his thoughts. The bag lays motionless apart from the slight inflating and deflating as Clyde breathes. The zipper pulled closed allowing only what oxygen can filter through the thin nylon fabric of the sports bag. Taking the handles, Jon cautiously raises it from the crate and moves slowly to the isolation room. Following close behind, the quarantine inspector and myself watch quietly as the bag is placed on the long metal bench. "Stand back," Jon cautions as he takes the zipper pull in his fingers. As he gently unzips the bag his shoulders slump in a heavy sigh. "Poor little guy," he whispers as he opens the bag to its full capacity revealing the heavily bound monkey. Its arms taped tight to its sides, he sleeps soundly, obviously he'd been drugged heavily prior to the flight to keep him from making any noises that may attract unwanted attention. The oversized pouch of his bony voice box resting against his chest, Clyde's feet tucked in tight within the small confined space inside the bag. His tail taped tight up one side leaving him totally incapable of moving even if he hadn't been drugged. "What type of monkey is he," I ask, glancing at his prominent chin. "He's an Alouatta seniculus," Jon explains. "They're commonly known as Howler Monkeys because of their loud howl. He's obviously from South or Central America. Look at the tail, Kim, see the last few inches there?" Pointing at the flesh like tip he continues, "A howler monkey's tail is like a third hand. Their tails even have individual fingerprints same as you and I have handprints, yet their tails have the ability to carry their entire body weight as they swing from trees to eat or play." Parting Clyde's gums, Jon inspects his teeth. "I think we'd better get this tape off him before he wakes up. Kim, would you prepare the cage please?" "Already done." Handing Jon the scissors, I turn to the quarantine inspector. "Would you like a coffee, tea? Jon, would you like one too?" "Thank you, coffee sounds great," the inspector says smiling extending his hand to mine. "I'm Nathan Eames." "Kim," I reply, noting his firm grip as we briefly shake hands, "It's nice to meet you." "Jon Anderson," Jon says as he takes Nathan's hand. "And I'd love a coffee, thanks Kim." "I have to say, Jon, this is some establishment you have here." I hear Nathan say as I make my way to the kitchen. Well, that'll keep Jon happy, I laugh to myself, remembering his disgruntled cough from earlier. As I pass the recovery room, I hear the Thompson's cat purring peacefully in sleep. Setting the cups out on the kitchen bench I wait for the kettle to boil. Noticing Michael's pad laying on the counter, I can't help but have a quick glimpse inside. My heart skips a beat as I look at the pages. Inside, instead of scribbling what I had thought were notes of examinations, were detailed sketches of me. The details flawless as though he'd been studying me in moments I'd been unaware. Pictures of my face prominent on the pages as I flip through the sketches in his pocket sized notepad. A warmth descends to my inner thighs as the thought of Michael paying such close attention to me stirs emotions deep inside. Resting the pad aside, my face flushed as I switch off the kettle; I pour the coffees and set them out on a tray with the milk and sugar. My feet not even feeling as though they touch the ground as I make my way back to the isolation room. The smile on my face uneraseable as I lay the tray on the bench alongside the now empty sports bag. Turning to see the two men standing beside one of the cages oblivious to my return, I make my way over to join them. "Oh, you're back, Kim," Jon says as he places the lock onto the cage door. "I've just taken some blood specimens from our little friend here." Nodding his head in the direction of Clyde, I notice his breathing now seems unabated. "How are his vitals?" "He's doing good so far, but I'll keep the heart monitor on him for a while yet." Turning to grab his coffee, Nathan and I take a seat on the bench much to Jon's disapproval. As Jon and Nathan talk about the quarantine side of things, I let my mind wander back to the sketches in Michael's notepad. Maybe I'm just another model for him to practice his skills on, I guess, but deep down I'm hoping he has feelings reciprocating those I hold of him. "Kim?" Jon says, waving his hand in front of my face. Biting my lower lip I smile. "Sorry, I was in my own little world." My heart still aflutter with thoughts of Mike as I follow them toward the main building. Walking behind, I can't help but notice the way Nathan's ass looks in his trousers. Not nearly as good as Michael's, but still firm for a man I'm guessing to be in his early fifties. The gray of his temples visible as he turns his head to chat with Jon as they enter through the side door. Without his glasses, he could be quite handsome, I think silently as I follow them inside. His strong jawline and prominent nose giving him a defined look, a man of stature no matter what role he held. He has the look of someone who strives for what he wants, and more than likely, gets it. "Kim, I'm going to be here for a while tonight, why don't you call it a day," Jon says as he places his cup in the sink. "I want to keep an eye on Clyde for tonight at least." "Okay, thanks Jon." Smiling I shake Nathan's hand. "It was nice meeting you, Nathan." "You too, Kim. I'm sure we'll see each other again, I want to keep a close eye on Clyde's progress for my reports." Giving him a heartfelt smile I grab my coat. "Don't stay up too late, Jon. I'll see you tomorrow." Waving my good-byes I head outside. The air is starting to cool as I make my way to my car. "Hey Kim." Waving as he heads up the steps to the clinic, I turn to see Michael. "Hi Michael. What are you doing here this late?" My heart racing as I see him for the first time out of uniform. My eyes tracing their way up his toned torso, his dark track pants and contrasting white sneakers teamed with the navy and white windbreaker making him look even more irresistible. "I forgot a few things," he smiles as he shrugs his shoulders. "Wait up, I'll just be a minute." "Okay." Watching him disappear through the door as it closes gently behind him I feel my heart thumping faster in my chest. As the minute turns into ten, I begin to feel like a fool. Most people would have turned and left, but no, I stand here like some love sick idiot waiting. Feeling the pang in the pit of my stomach I reluctantly unlock my car and climb inside. Sitting there momentarily staring at the entrance of the clinic, I turn the key and start the engine. As I reverse out of the parking lot I turn up the radio, hoping for something raunchy with a good rhythm to take my mind away from my disappointment. Even hearing Ram Jam belt out 'Old Black Betty' doesn't distract my thoughts. Somehow I make my way home, not really sure how as my mind had been on anything but driving. My phone is ringing as I open the front door. Hearing my answering machine kick in, I listen to the message as I remove my jacket and toss my keys on the bench. 'Hey Kim, it's Michael. I'm really sorry Kim, I forgot you were waiting when Dr. Anderson showed me Clyde. He's not what I had expected. Anyway, I just called to apologize, I'll see you tomorrow.' Resigning myself to the couch, I switch on the TV and curl up. Resting my head on the armrest I close my eyes, feeling my body slowly begin to relax. My breathing slow and deep as I feel sleep finally wash away any thoughts of Michael. * * * * * * * Glancing at my watch I sigh, thinking just how highly unusual it is for either Jon or Michael to be this late. Checking the door finding it locked I make my way around to the back. The door to the isolation room is locked but through the windows I can make out light. Jon must have left it on, or fallen asleep here, I guess as I raise myself on my toes to peer through the window. "Hey, Kim," Michael says from behind me. Startled, I clutch my chest in fright, feeling the rapid beating of my heart as I turn to face him. Laughing he pulls out his bundle of keys. "Sorry, didn't mean to scare you." "God," I whisper as I exhale heavily, then look at him and laugh. "Don't do that!" "Sorry." Grinning he unlocks the door and steps inside. "Wow. Looks like Jon left in a hurry last night." Stepping through the doorway we both survey the array of litter scattered across the floor. An empty coffee mug lays in a puddle of spilled amber liquid, messing the normally spotless steel top bench. A clipboard lays askew against the leg of a chair with its contents spewed onto the floor. Michael and I glance at each other as I straighten the pile of papers and return them to their clipboard. "Don't touch anything, Kim, just incase," Michael warns. "I'll check in the surgery, see if he's there, otherwise I'll give him a call." "Okay, I'll come with you and check on the Thompson cat. She goes home this morning." An eerie silence fills the clinic. Neither of us used to being here without Jon's friendly face to greet us, we head to the reception area where Michael searches the teledex and pulls out Jon's number. I wait quietly as he dials. Holding the receiver to his ear he mindlessly brushes a few pieces of lint from his trouser leg. Looking up at me as he listens to the incessant ringing, he chews softly on one side of his lower lip. "No answer," Michael says as he lays the receiver back in the cradle. "I'll try his emergency number, he's sure to have his mobile with him." M.I.K.E. "Okay. I'll be in recovery if you need me." Grabbing some gauze and tape from the supplies cabinet I head to the adjoining room. As I pull the cat from her cage I hear Michael hang up the phone in the next room. Entering the room, he leans against the door frame. "That's strange, he's not answering his mobile either." "Maybe he just forgot to take it with him," I offer as I remove the soiled bandages from the Thompson cat. "Oh well, he'll show eventually," Michael says shrugging. Hearing the jingle-jangle song of the bell over the entrance door, I pick up the Siamese and place it back into the cage. "That'll be Mrs. Thompson. Michael, would you mind greeting her please as I wash up?" With a wink and a 'cluck' sound as he sucks his inner cheek against the side of his teeth he walks out into reception. "Good morning, Mrs. Thompson," I hear him say as I lather my hands and forearms. As I rinse the soap from my arms, I smile as Michael leads Mrs. Thompson into the recovery room. Glancing over to her cat, it's obvious she's happy to see her owner as she circles the cage rubbing against the sides purring. "The operation went well." Opening the cage, he lifts the Siamese and places it on the examination table. Running his hand along its back, patting the cat as he talks. "She'll need to come back in a week to have the sutures removed. If there's any sign of infection, call us immediately, or if her urine becomes bloody. Also, if she refuses to eat or seems generally depressed after the first day bring her in." "She'll be fine," I smile as I pat my hands dry on a paper towel. "She loves affection doesn't she?" "Siam just loves the attention, don't you baby," Mrs. Thompson coos as she tickles her cat under the chin. "Let's get you home sweetie." Lifting her cage onto the table, Michael helps her get the cat inside. "Kim will see you out, Mrs. Thompson. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call." "Thank you, Doctor," she says as I lead her out to reception. After finalizing the account and wishing them well, I finger my pen as I watch Mrs. Thompson and her cat leave. The shrill of the phone startles me as it breaks the silence. There's no music, I realize as I greet the caller, Jon always has the radio going. "Good morning. Anthony's Animal Mechanics." My mind suddenly slipping back to Jon, as I listen to the caller's frantic pleas for help. "One moment, I'll see if the doctor can see you now." Placing the caller on hold, I quickly run to the door of the recovery room. "Michael, I have a lady who's dog was just hit by a car. Sounds pretty messy. What do I tell her? What if Jon doesn't turn up?" Raising a hand in a questioning motion I look at Michael. "Put her through to the office, I'll take the call in there," Michael says as he places some papers into a folder on the filing cabinet. "Okay." Making my way back to the desk, I pick up the receiver. "I'm transferring you to the doctor now." Hanging up the phone, I slump down into the chair. My mind racing as I wonder if Michael will be able to handle the situation if Jon doesn't show. Leaning forward I rest my elbows on the desk kneading my brow with my fingers. God, where are you Jon? * * * * * * * "How does Chinese sound for lunch?" Michael asks as he enters the room. Placing the menu in front of me he sits casually on the desk beside me. "I haven't had Chinese in years!" Picking up the menu, I feel the low growl of my stomach. "I haven't eaten all day either." Looking up into his face, food is suddenly the last thing on my mind. The look on his face reflecting my thoughts as a lusty glaze fills his eyes. Feeling the warmth in my cheeks, yet unable to avert my gaze, I move my hand onto his. Entwining his fingers with mine he leans forward. Our lips meeting in a tender kiss, opening our mouths slightly as our tongues trace over each other's softly, so gently, moving into an embrace as I slide the chair back and move my body against his. Wrapping my arms around his waist, I press myself against him. The heat of our passion intensifying, his hand moving to the small of my back, pulling me closer. Feeling the twitch of his bulge against my mound sends a warmth between my thighs, my tongue searching his sweet mouth as the fire inside me is ignited. My heart beating in erratic waves as our lips part, l look at his mouth, unable to meet his gaze just yet. Michael traces his fingers softly down my cheek before curling a finger under my chin, raising my face to meet his. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that," he whispers, kissing my lips softly. "Me too," I whisper, resting my head against his chest savoring the warmth of his body next to mine. With one last passion filled kiss, we break our embrace. Picking up the menu, I glance over at Michael and smile. "How does lemon chicken sound?" "Perfect." Giving me a sexy smile, Michael picks up Clyde's chart. "I'd better check on our little friend. Do you mind ordering lunch while I get this done?" "Sure. I'll give Jon another call too." "Thanks, Kim." Watching as he walks out the door, I sigh. * * * * * * * Hearing voices coming from the isolation room, I guess Jon has returned. "Oh, hi Nathan." Sitting the bag of Chinese food on the bench I walk to the cage. Clyde is awake and looks amazingly well considering the ordeal he's just had to endure. "Well, hey there little fella," I coo as I take a closer look at our latest resident. "He's looking great." "He sure is," Michael says as he moves to my side. "He's showing phenomenal readings, not like the others when they came to." Handing me the chart, Michael sneaks me a wink before turning to Nathan. "You're just in time for lunch, Nathan. Hungry?" Pulling the containers of food from the bag, Michael sets them out on the bench. "Pull up a chair, I'll run in and grab some plates." "Thanks, I am a bit peckish," Nathan says as he grabs two stools and moves them beside the one Michael had been using. "Where's Dr. Anderson today?" "I have no idea. We've been trying to call him all morning." Taking a seat beside him, I prise the lids from the containers just as Michael returns with the plates and cutlery. "I left here around eleven last night. He didn't mention anything about being away today." Picking up a plate, Nathan shrugs. "I'm expecting an accident victim any minute now," Michael says as he spoons some fried rice onto his plate. "Nothing I can't handle, but I was hoping Jon would have shown up by now, just for the support." "I can take notes for you," Nathan says as he reaches for a container. "I'm fully qualified, and my credentials make me more than able to fill in the forms for your school reports." "Thanks, Nathan. I think I'd feel better having someone watch me, this being my first solo operation and all." "From what Jon tells me of your work so far, you'll be fine." The next few minutes are spent in silence as we eat our meal, each lost in our own thoughts. My thoughts of the tender kiss Michael and I had shared, wondering if his thoughts are of the operation or the same as mine. The inconspicuous wink and sly smile on his face confirming it is definitely the latter. Smiling back coyly, I excuse myself from the room. "I'm going to put the kettle on. Coffee anyone?" With nods from both the men as they eat, I make my way inside. * * * * * * * "Mrs. Carlson is here with her dog." Looking up from the cage, he slides the water dish in beside Clyde. In a blinding second, the monkey lunges, sinking its teeth deep into Michael's hand. "Ah, fuck!" Shaking his hand against the pain, he cups his palm in his other hand as the blood begins to drip inside the cage and onto the floor at his feet. With a loud screech, Clyde grabs for Michael's retreating hand. Slamming the door closed with his elbow, he holds it tight as Nathan quickly latches it shut. Placing the tray down on the bench, I quickly run to the supplies cupboard and pull out a roll of gauze. "Shit, are you okay?" Unrolling the gauze I wrap it firmly around his hand to stop the bleeding. "I'll be fine," he says, with a side ways glance he looks at Clyde. "It was my fault, I wasn't paying attention." "I'll lock up in here, you'd better see to Mrs. Carlson. She seems pretty agitated." "Thanks, Kim," Michael says, rubbing his hand on the bandage. Looking at Nathan, he nods, "Ready?" "You bet." Taking a sip of his coffee before placing the cup back on the tray, Nathan follows him into the main building. After tidying the bench, tossing the remains of our lunch into the bin, I take one final look at Clyde. His incessant hissing sending a chill up my spine as I turn off the light and lock the door behind me. * * * * * * * Hearing Michael and Nathan's voices as they leave the surgery, I glance up from my magazine. "How'd the operation go?" "We'll know in a day or two. His back leg was shattered, so if the bones don't start to mend soon, it'll be no doubt an amputation." "Ouch." Putting the magazine down, I follow them to the kitchen. Listening to the pair discuss the operation, I wash the few coffee cups in the sink and place them away in the cupboard overhead. "Do you need me for anything else tonight?" Turning my attention to Michael, I place the dishcloth on the bench. "Hmm, I'm going to head off myself," Nathan says, handing the school forms to Michael. "I'll see you two in the morning." "Okay, good night, Nathan, and thanks." Shaking hands, Michael turns to me. "I'll lock up here, Kim. The Carlson dog is doing fine, so no need for me to hang around." "Good night, Nathan," I wave as he heads to the front door. Feeling his hands circle my waist, I turn to face Michael; as our lips meet, I feel the warmth returning to my inner thighs. With my arms around his neck, our tongues explore the recesses of each other's mouth. Michael's bulge buried against my navel, his hands pulling together behind my back, drawing me closer. Hooking his hands beneath my ass he raises me onto the bench, our lips never parting as he moves between my parted thighs. The soft moans escaping our mouths increasing in frequency as he rocks his firm bulge against my mound through the thin fabric of my pants. Crossing my feet behind his ass, pulling him into me as our kiss becomes electrified. Moving his hand slowly up the front of my shirt, he cups my breast and gently kneads it through the cotton of my blouse. Tightening his grip as he nears my nipple, gently tugging it outward as he moves his mouth across my cheek, kissing my face softly. The warmth of his breath as his tongue slides to my ear sends a shiver surging down my spine. An involuntary spasm erupts within my inner walls as he glides his tongue along my lobe, his breath hot as he softly wraps his lips around and gently sucks it into his mouth. His hand teasing my nipple, the firm peak standing tall as it presses against my blouse. Gliding his hand across the front of my blouse he slides his fingers over the buttons revealing more of my flesh as he works his way lower. As he unbuttons the last, he slides his hand inside my shirt sending a ripple of goosebumps surfacing over my skin. The warmth of his caress as he takes my breast in his hand sends a flood of fluids to my already damp panties. Arching my back, I want to melt into him as his soft lips wrap around my nipple, softly sucking it into the warmth of his mouth. His tongue teasingly flicks over the firmness of my teat, as his hand moves gingerly up my outer thigh. Taking his jacket in my hands, I pull it over his shoulders. Shrugging it from his arms, the coat falls in a pool at his feet revealing his toned body hidden beneath the sheer fabric of his shirt. Fumbling with the buttons, I slowly unbutton his shirt tracing my fingers teasingly over the newly exposed flesh. Michael pulls the shirt from his body tossing it in a heap alongside the crumpled jacket, before returning his attention to my firm nipples. Peeling the blouse from my shoulders, he drops it behind him as he cups the roundness of my breast in his hand. A shiver racing up my spine as his thumb rolls over the tip of my nipple, our lips meeting again in a fiery kiss. Moving my fingers slowly through the spanse of hair covering his chest, I make my way lower, cupping my hand over his bulge as my tongue slides tenderly with his. Unbuttoning his pants, I take the zipper pull and teasingly pull it down. Michael's hands undoing my pants as I tuck my fingers into the waistband of his jocks and pull them down gently with his trousers. Taking his length in my hand, I slowly stroke the thickness, sliding my thumb over the beads of precum as they appear at the small slit of his shaft. "Lift up," Michael whispers as he peels the pants down over my hips. The dark damp patch on the front of my panties reflecting my arousal as my slacks fall from my ankles to the jumbled mash of clothing at his feet. Moving his outstretched hands up my thighs, he slides his thumbs over the outline of my vulva through the sheer mesh of my panties. Leaning forward, he kisses my panties before tucking his fingers in the elastic and peels them down my thighs. As he raises himself to meet my gaze, our lips lock in a heart stopping embrace. A moan escapes my mouth as his fingers find my sex, slowly sliding between the folds before he drives two deep within the tightness of my inner walls. Driving them with a force as the hunger searing through my body intensifies, reflected in the growing passion of my kiss. Rocking my hips against his hand, I feel his thumb circling firm against my clit, sending shocks rippling through me as his fingers continue to drive deep. Arching my back as his fingers curl against my inner walls, feeling the tension building as my pending orgasm nears. Gripping his arms tight for support, I press myself hard against his hand forcing his fingers deeper as my muscles erupt around them. My body shudders as the intensity of the unrelenting spasms blind me momentarily of any sane thought. Lowering my chin I inhale deep as the final waves of my climax subside. Pulling Michael's face to mine, I kiss him with hunger as his fingers continue to slide against the velvety slickness of my cum. Grabbing his wrist I pull his hand from me and draw his wet fingers to my mouth. Circling my tongue around the tips before wrapping my lips around them and suck them into my mouth tasting the juices of my own orgasm. Looking deep into his sexy brown eyes, I glide my lips over his fingers, weaving my tongue up their length savoring the sweet taste. Taking my hand in his, Michael pulls his fingers from my mouth and replaces them with his tongue. Kissing me hard and with desperation, I feel the head of his cock pressing against the folds of my sex. His hand moves between my thighs guiding his shaft to my slick opening, and with one thrust he penetrates me deep. Holding still momentarily as our bodies accommodate to the new sensations, he begins with slow, languid thrusts, sliding his cock inside the tightness of my inner walls. Gripping my ass, he pulls me closer, driving his thickness deeper as his tempo increases. My nipples hard as they brush against the coarse hair on his chest. Wrapping my legs higher around his back, I thrust my hips forward to meet his motions. His balls slapping against the cheeks of my ass with each pounding rhythmical movement as his cock works harder and deeper inside me. His hand gropes my breast, tugging at my nipple as he buries himself into my pussy. The walls sucking in around his cock, wrapping his probing shaft tight as it moves with increasing vigor as the heat of our wanton needs surface. "Oh God, Kim," he whispers as fingers dig into my ass, gripping tight as his cock swells. With another forceful push of his hips, I feel the warmth fill me as he spills his seed deep inside my inner cavity. Our mouths meeting as he pumps the last of his jism into my wetness, the thrusts slowing as his length slowly begins to soften. Kissing with a new sense of intimacy, our bodies press close together as we each catch our breath. Slipping his spent shaft from my body, we hold each other tight savoring the moment. * * * * * * * Gathering up our clothes, we dress in silence. My eyes fixated on Michael's body as he pulls his pants up around his hips. Feeling a stir building between my thighs, I drop my clothes to the floor and wrap my arms around his neck. As our lips meet, I feel his pants brush against my thighs as they fall to his ankles. The kiss long and arousing as our passions are re-ignited. Kissing my way down his chest, I slowly drop to my knees; hooking my fingers into his jocks and carefully peel them over his growing erection, before pulling them down to his ankles. Sliding my palms up his thighs, my mouth waters as my gaze moves to the firmness of his cock standing proud before me. Cupping one hand to his balls, squeezing them gently as I take his shaft in my other. Skimming my tongue up the length of his rod, wetting it with my saliva as I move my tongue over the head of his cock, dragging it slowly over the slit, tasting the salty sweetness of our sex and the beads or precum accumulating there now. As I wrap my lips around the head, I look up at Michael. His fingers sliding around my head, entangling themselves in my hair as his cock slides slowly into my mouth. Weaving my tongue over the underside of his shaft, I circle it around the head as my mouth moves up to the tip of his cock. Sucking my inner cheeks snug around him as I drive him to the back of my throat; his fingers gripping tighter around my hair as he begins to move his hips toward my face with each plunge of my mouth. Stroking him slowly as I work my lips over his shaft, my other hand toys gently with his balls as they softly slap against my chin with each thrust of his hips. A soft grunt escapes his lips as he drives his cock deeper into my throat, pulling my face onto his cock faster and harder as his arousal escalates. Watching his face as I bury his shaft down my throat, sucking my cheeks tighter as his tempo increases. Pressing my tongue against the firmness of his muscle, I feel him begin to swell inside my mouth. The sweet tang of his precum coating my tongue as he plunges himself hard into my face, almost making me gag as his climax nears. His balls firm in my hand as he fucks my mouth, holding his cock back from my throat so I can swallow as he begins to spew his cum. I wince as he pulls my hair tight, forcing his cock deep as he pumps the last of his seed into my mouth, my tongue pressing up against him milking the last of his orgasm from his now softening shaft. As I get to my feet, I kiss his lips softly, the taste of his cum still fresh on my breath. Standing in his warm embrace, the clock chimes marking the hour. "We'd better get you home," Michael whispers. Releasing his hold, he kisses me tenderly before bending to pull up his pants. "I'll help you lock up." Picking up my blouse and pants I dress slowly, watching with adoration as he walks toward the rear of the clinic to secure the premises. * * * * * * * As we stand out in the cool evening air, Clyde's howling cries can be heard against the stillness of the night. "I'm going to call past Jon's, see if he's shown up yet." "Okay, I'll see you in the morning." Pulling my jacket in around my ears, I give Michael a kiss on his lips before unlocking my car and climbing inside. Giving him one of the sexiest smiles I can muster, I start the engine and reverse out of the small parking lot. The drive home going by in a flash as my mind races over the events of the day. A smile making its way across my face as the memory of Michael's soft caresses fill my mind. Still able to smell the scent of our sex on my clothes, I park my car in my driveway and turn off the headlights. As I make my way inside, I shrug off my jacket, holding it briefly to my nose, inhaling the sensuous scent of his musky aftershave before hanging it inside the closet. As I slip my feet out of my shoes, I jump slightly as the shrill of the phone ringing wakes me from my thoughts. M.I.K.E. "Kim, it's Michael." Cutting me off before I can reply, he continues. "Jon's dead. I'm here at his apartment now." "Oh, God no!" Tears fill my eyes before spilling down my cheeks, my knuckles white as I grip the receiver tight. "How? When?" My mind racing as my heart feels as though it could shatter under the intense pain of my grief. "I don't know," Michael finally answers after a brief moment of silence. "I've called an ambulance. They're on their way now, but Kim... oh God, there's just so much blood... " A loud sob echoes through the phone as he tries to contain himself. "Michael, I'll be right there." Slamming down the phone before he can object, I grab my coat and head out the door. * * * * * * * The street is lit with the red and blue beacons of the ambulance as I park my car beside the curb. I see Michael talking with a paramedic, a blanket over his shoulders as he stares vacantly at his feet. One of the paramedics casually wheels a stretcher into the apartment as a police car pulls up alongside the team. As I climb out of my car, Michael looks up. His eyes rimmed in red blotches, it's obvious he'd been crying as he forces a smile on his face when he spots me. Falling into his arms, we hold each other close. "Mr. Gibbon?" comes the soft voice from behind him. "Yes." Leaving an arm draped around my waist, Michael looks at the officer standing before us. "I'm Officer Tracey Danson. I just need to ask you a few questions if you don't mind." "I'll just be a few minutes," Michael whispers, placing a tender kiss on my cheek before moving aside with the officer. While they talk, I take in my surroundings. Another police car has arrived, and the officers take a large black case inside with them as they enter the apartment. Making my way toward Jon's home, I am cautioned back by the paramedic that had been speaking with Michael earlier. "You can't go in there, Miss." Leading me back toward my car, he nods at his partner as he emerges from the apartment. Sitting on the curb, I wait for Michael to finish with the police officer. A tear making its way slowly down my cheek as I watch the commotion inside Jon's apartment. His bedroom lighting up as photos are taken, through the window I can see the outline of officers as they move around inside. My body feeling numb, my mind filled with thoughts of Jon as I close my eyes, blocking out the scene in front of me. "You shouldn't have come here, Kim," Michael says as I open my eyes to see him standing before me. Offering his hand, he helps me to my feet. "Let's get you home. There's nothing we can do here." In silence we walk to my car. As he holds the door open for me, we both look back at the apartment and sigh. * * * * * * * My head aching as I force my eyes open against the brightness of the morning sun. Looking down at my lap, Michael lays in the same position he'd finally fallen asleep in the night before. Neither of us had wanted to sleep, our conversations centering around what had taken place at Jon's apartment. Exhaustion finally winning the battle as we'd fallen asleep snuggled close on the couch. Tracing a finger lightly through his dark hair, I sigh. It had been a grueling night for both of us, yet we still had to open the clinic. Raising his head gently, I slide my body out from under him and head for the shower. The shower invigorating as the jets of warmth wash over my body, easing the tensions as I lather myself. Resting my head back I close my eyes, enjoying the sensations of the pounding water massaging my face. My mind going over the scene at Jon's place as I turn the taps off and reach for a towel. "Good morning, sleepyhead," I smile, walking into the lounge as I towel dry my hair. Stretching, Michael smiles. "Morning." Wrapping his arms around my waist, he pulls me close to him. "How are you feeling this morning?" With a sigh, I shrug. "I'm not really looking forward to going to the clinic, but I want to go. If anything, I know Jon would want us to keep it open." Moving a hand through his hair, he sighs. "I know. It's going to be hard." Noticing the dark stains on the bandage, I take his hand in mine. "Hasn't that stopped bleeding yet?" Turning his hand over, I examine the bloodied gauze. "Nah. I guess he bit me harder than I realized," Michael laughs. His expression becoming more serious as I slowly unwrap his hand. "I'll clean it up for you. One sec, I'll grab some clean gauze." Moving to the bathroom, Michael follows close behind. "I think I'll go get it checked before I head to the clinic," Michael says as I reach into the bathroom cabinet. Turning to him, my mouth drops open. "Oh God, Michael." His hand infested as the large yellow puss filled welts cover his hand where Clyde's teeth had pierced his skin. The area surrounding the punctures swollen and covered in deep purple blotches, the infection spreading from between his thumb and index finger up to his wrist. "You have to get that seen to!" "I'll stop at the emergency rooms on my way. You take the keys and open the clinic, I shouldn't be too long." Kissing me softly, he drapes his arms around my waist. "Okay." Warily I look into his eyes, his face seeming somewhat jaundice. Glancing at my watch, I gasp. "I'd better hurry and get ready. Nathan will probably be there waiting." Carefully wrapping the gauze around Michael's hand, I kiss the bandage before making my way to the bedroom. Pulling on a sweater and navy slacks, I quickly brush my hair and pull it back into a ponytail. Lightly applying some makeup, I check my appearance before heading out to the lounge. "I'll see you at the office." Kissing him tenderly, I grab the keys and head out the door. * * * * * * * As I head my car toward the parking lot, I notice Nathan standing at the main entrance pacing nervously. Gulping, I park, knowing I'll have to be the one to break the news to him about Jon. "What's going on, Kim?" he asks as I near the steps leading to the entrance. "The police have been here twice looking for Michael." "Looking for Michael?" Looking at him quizzically, I unlock the main door to the clinic. "They seemed genuinely concerned about his welfare, saying it is crucial they speak with him as soon as possible." "I think I may know what it's about." Punching in the alarm code, I motion for Nathan to take a seat. Taking a deep breath I explain Jon's demise, wiping the tears from my eyes as they fall in streams down my cheeks. "Apparently his entire body was covered in blood, almost as though he'd bled from every pore of his body... " my voice trailing as a wave of fresh tears racks my body. "Dear God," Nathan whispers as we both reach for the tissues. Pulling me into his arms, he holds me against his chest firm, allowing me to release the grief engulfing me from the innermost core of my soul. The haunting howl coming from the rear of the building sends a shiver up my spine as I suddenly remember Michael's hand. Looking up with tear stained eyes, I sniffle as I step back from the embrace. "I'd better finish unlocking the doors." Wiping my eyes, I grab the keys from the desk and head out toward the isolation room. "Kim," Nathan says, grabbing my arm tenderly, "I'll unlock the rest, you go freshen up." Smiling gratefully I pass him the keys. "Thanks," I manage to say in a husky whisper. With a reassuring squeeze of my arm Nathan heads out the back. In a blinding instant it seemed that men in fully enclosed safety gear stormed the clinic from all directions. Their clothes reminding me of something out of a horror movie, with their masked faces and goggles, gloved hands and heavy white boots making them walk as though they were fighting gravity. Glancing out the front door of the clinic I see the police cars lined in a row as the storms of police officers stand around talking to faceless people through their walkie talkies as they cordon off the building. "What's going on?" I shout as they move past me as though I didn't exist. Stepping back toward my desk as one of them towers threateningly over me, I look up into the piercing eyes of the man before me. "Remain where you are, we need to secure the building," he says, his voice muffled against the protective mask covering his mouth. Noticing Nathan being led into the reception, I move quickly to his side; he looking just as confused as I am. "What's going on?" he whispers. With a shrug, I look to the men moving in through the front entrance with machines resembling the one Clyde is hooked up to, designed to measure heart rates. Through the door I see Michael being led inside by one of the men in protective suits. His arm heavily bandaged, holding it tenderly as he is moved in behind the desk with Nathan and myself. Wrapping my arms around his waist, I hold him tight as they continue to move in equipment through to the isolation room and surgery. The phone shrills over the commotion. Picking up the receiver Michael looks at us with a concerned look on his face as he listens to the caller. "Uh huh. Okay, but what do we do?" he says into the phone as he mindlessly coils the cord around his finger. Looking into his face as it seems to drain of color, my heart races waiting for him to finish the call. After what feels like an eternity, Michael finally hangs up the phone. His fingers gripping the receiver, his head bowed before he slowly looks up at Nathan and myself. "What's going on?" we ask simultaneously. With a heavy sigh, he coughs. "Ever heard of Ebola?" he finally asks. Nodding, yet not comprehending what he's saying, we wait for him to continue. Like he's struggling for his words, Michael looks nervously at each of us in turn. "It seems that Jon died from a deadly strain of Ebola. It's highly contagious, and lethal for all that come into contact with the virus." Rubbing his hands to his temple he closes his eyes before continuing. "It seems... somehow this virus has changed." "Wh.. what do you mean changed?" Nathan asks trying to take in what Michael is saying. "Changed. Mutated with another virus." Shaking his head, he looks down at his bandaged hand. "They seem to think that Clyde somehow caught both viruses and transmitted it to Jon." My heart caught in my throat as I suddenly realize what Michael is saying. "Oh God, no!" Looking at his hand, I pull him into my arms holding him tight. The tears stinging my eyes as I wrap my arms around him, my face pressing against his chest as the tears fall freely. * * * * * * * The endless questions flying at us as we are asked about anybody and everybody we may have come into contact with since Clyde's arrival. The endless blood samples leaving me feeling like a lab experiment, as yet another needle is replaced with a cotton swab and taped in place by the heavily protected nurse. Her slender figure seeming lost under the layers of the protective suit, with the large boots looking at least four sizes too large as she clomps to the surgical tray, placing the blood filled syringe into the zip seal bag ready for testing. Gazing across the room at Michael, I watch the nurse taking swabs from the punctures on his hand. The blister like incisions fouled with yellowish puss, while the swelling seems to have spread to his upper arm, the purple blotches staining his once perfect skin. Catching my gaze, he smiles bravely as the nurse takes a scalpel and drags it over one of the infected welts. Nathan, looking a ghastly shade of pale, looks nervously at the beeping machine measuring his heart rate. Reaching over, I squeeze his hand reassuringly. With a weak smile, his chest heaves as he inhales deeply. "We've notified all on the list, they're undergoing tests as we speak," I hear one of the men say into his cell phone. Clearing his throat as he notices us watching, he lowers his voice as he leaves the room. Watching as the nurse helps Michael from the reclined chair, he moves as though in pain as she holds his arm leading him to the chair beside mine. "How are you doing?" I whisper when the nurse leaves the room. "Been better," he chokes, his face a shadow of the one I know and love. His lips now a pale, deathly white with only a glimpse of pink left to contrast against the pallid yellow tinge of his skin. His eyes rimmed in red as he seems to fight to keep them open. Reaching over, I squeeze gently on his hand. "Get some rest, Michael." Feeling the exhaustion of the day's events catching up with me, I watch as Michael finally sleeps, feeling my eyelids droop as sleep takes over my senses. * * * * * * * The voices rousing me from my sleep as I force my eyes open. "We have a flat liner in here," the nurse calls as another rushes to Michael's side. "No!" I feel the arms restraining me as I scream, calling out Michael's name. Still calling out his name as the sudden jab in my upper arm sends my world spiraling into darkness. * * * * * * * "Kim." The firm hand on my shoulder shaking vigorously, my head still spinning from the effects of the needle as I groggily open my eyes. "Mmph." My mouth dry and parched, swallowing feeling like razor blades scraping against the back of my throat as I focus on the masked face in front of me. "We have to move you out of here." The hand on my shoulder unrelenting as it rouses me fully. Glancing over toward where Michael lays, the motionless figure laying recumbent with a sheet pulled over his face. "Michael," I whisper as a wave of tears rocks my body. "We don't have time for that!" The high pitched howl sending a ripple of goose bumps surfacing as I look bewildered into the face before me. My heart racing, unbeknown to the dangers lurking just outside the room. "Quick, get up!" Pulling me to my feet, I don't look back as I stagger, guided by his firm grip as he pulls me toward the surgery. Forcing a chair firmly against the door, he pulls me toward the back of the room where a group of frightened faces look up at me. "Wh... what's happening?" "Sshh... " Feeling the hands pulling at me, I reluctantly fall to my knees not fully understanding why we're being so quiet. Shaking my head trying to shake off the remaining effects of the needle, I pull my knees in against my chest and glance around at the array of masked faces surrounding me. In a low husky voice, the man who had roused me whispers. "We're dealing with a mutant strain of a combination of both the Ebola fever and rabies virus. Together, the outcome is fatal. Kim." Taking my face in his hands, he holds my gaze fixed on his. "Listen." My heart racing against its cage as the sound of Clyde's howl moves closer. Stricken with fear, I sit quietly listening to the unknown man in front of me. "In humans, so far the results have proven deadly. But with primates... " his voice trailing as he looks warily toward the door. "In primates, it creates a biological transformation. We've never seen anything like this before. "Both Dr. Anderson and Michael Gibbon had different reactions to the virus. Dr. Anderson had a hemorrhagic reaction, causing him to bleed externally - a classic symptom of the Ebola fever. Whereas young Michael had a mutant reaction." My head reeling as the fear inside of me intensifies listening to the gargling breath of Clyde as he moves slowly outside the door. Looking toward the door, he takes my hand. "If Michael hadn't passed, the disease would have taken over within days, if not hours. He was already showing signs of mutation with his arm." "What?" My thoughts a mash of emotions as I fight to grip the reality of the situation. "What do you mean 'showing signs of mutation'?" Without warning the door to the surgery bursts open. The screams echoing through the room as people move in all directions, the sickening howl deafening as Clyde moves into the small confinements of the surgery. Unable to see him from my vantage point, I cower behind the nameless man who had dragged me in here, more than likely saving me from a grueling death had I been left in the other room. The blood curdling screams causing my stomach to clench tight as splatters of red flicker on the walls around me. Unable to see the slaughter, I shudder, gripping tight to the coat of the man in front of me. With my eyelids clenched tight, my teeth biting together tighter, I fight the urge to cry against the immense fear surfacing deep within. Without seeing, I sense the foreboding body hovering on the bench beside me. Too stricken with fear to move, I feel a shiver shake me to my core, waiting for the onslaught to begin. The sharp nails dig into my wrist as I'm suddenly pulled to my feet. "Get up!" In a frightening second, I'm lurched across the room as my unknown savior grabs a stool and swings it hard against Clyde's immense form. Opening my eyes long enough to see the burning glow of his piercing eyes, Clyde's fingers grab the man's throat tight, lifting him with an ease as he flings the flailing body against the wall. The deafening crack of his neck as he slams against it hard sends a shiver and a cold sweat surfacing through me. Clyde stands tall. His body bulging, not the same monkey I'd seen rescued from the clutches of a merciless smuggler only days earlier. His chest rippling with sharp spiny bristles, his fingers twisted with razor like pointed nails protruding from his boney fingertips. His snarl revealing blood stained teeth as he rocks, wavering as if waiting for a moment to pounce. Without warning he lurches. Tripping over a bloodied body, I stumble toward the doorway. The searing agony as his claw like fingers grab me, tearing me open like a tin can, leaving me writhing as I feel the warmth of my blood staining the back of my hospital gown. The high pitched laugh sending a shiver through me as I roll over to see his large form standing, sneering as he thrusts forward, pinning me down as his huge form hovers over me. A string of saliva dangles menacingly from his quivering mouth as he balances on my heaving chest as I struggle to breathe under his weight. My mouth burning both from the stench of his rancid breath and of the acid like saliva as it drops into my open mouth. With an ear piercing ring, the gun fires. Clyde's burning amber eyes opening wide as I feel splatters of his blood covering my face and body. As though in slow motion, I watch his head move backward as his huge form lunges forward, smothering me beneath him. * * * * * * * So here I sit. My days are numbered as I wait for the disease to render my body helpless. My journal entries are becoming increasingly more painful as the pains surge through my fingers making it virtually impossible to grip a pen. I often think about Jon, and of course, Michael. Knowing he and I will be together again soon is the only thing keeping my spirits up as I undergo the endless tests. The strain has been so far unknown to man, so I guess I'm their test dummy as they record the development of the disease and take endless blood from my weary body. So I've been told since that frightful day, it was a French man, Phillippe DeLaPierre who had first introduced the Ebola strain to American shores. Apparently he'd contracted the disease during his duties in Africa, he and many other Legionnaires had carried the virus unknown when they returned to the U.S. Had he known that Clyde carried rabies when he'd drugged him and captured him from his natural habitat I often wonder if he'd have carried out his attempts of smuggling the monkey to Australian waters. As I write, I feel the darkness beginning to envelop me. I hear the muffled voices of the nurses as they surround me, hands and needles seem to be jabbing me from all angles. Oh, before it gets any harder to write, they've named the strain M.I.K.E. or Mutant Infestation Kinetic Epidemic. To me it will always stand for Michael. Michael Is Kim's Eternally. Corny huh? I have to sign off now, it's getting so dark...