Page Two Hundred Thirty-Eight.
"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR COTTEN-PICKIN' MIND?" scream-arfed Quito. "Are you trying to burn down the house? Why would you set off fireworks so close to people? Don't you realize how dangerous that is? You're nothing but a crazy fool!"
The four kids were huddled behind Quito, with baby Jordan wrapping herself in his bushy, black and white tail. As much as the fireworks really were beautiful, the kids were scared by the unexpected noise, black burn marks on the ground and closeness of the sparks. They realized that there really is a reason why adults consider fireworks and firecrackers dangerous.They could smell the smokey, burning gunpowder and decaying scorched grass; and it was difficult to see through the hazy fog of muddy, swirling clouds. The fireworks continued still.
"Let me tell you something, Mister Quito", woofed Wanda. "I want what I want, when I want, where I want and how I want. And you can't stop me." Now are you going to come and be my spokesdog or aren't you. And before you answer, just know this: if you say no, these fireworks will seem like child's play compared to some of the things I'll do to you and you family. So you think long and hard. Now, what's your answer. Tell me immediately."
"NO! And if you know what's good for you, you'll forget about this whole idea before it's too late. You can't threaten me." Quito was strangely calm. He could feel the kids shaking with fear. But he didn't even raise his bark this time. He wasn't the least bit scared of his foe. He believed she was just a spoiled brat collie who's never learned how to receive a "no you can't" with grace when she was a child. Now as an adult collie she was mean to anybody who didn't do what she wanted. And she probably didn't have any friends as a result.
But Quito knew how to handle a dog like this. She needed to be put in her place with no compromise. He knew that she'd do many mean things to him too. But he didn't care. He knew that he had the power and strength to fight back and protect his family.
All of a sudden a flying ash flew down and landed squarely on Thomas's arm and started sizzling. He started crying because the pain was so severe. The other three kids soothed him and ran and got some ice to put on the small blister. Wanda just smiled with smug satisfaction. She hated children and was happy whenever one was harmed or injured.
Quito growled and bared his teeth. He was drooling with anger. He lunged toward Wanda and clamped his teeth around her front right leg and bit down hard. "Don't you ever show your fur around here ever again" he barked after letting go. Wanda was stunned. She was bleeding, but not badly.
"Oh, now you'll really be sorry", Wanda barked while glaring at him. She limped back to her Duesenberg and her chauffeur drove off.
Quito tended to Thomas's wound and put everybody to sleep.
Continued next week... Chapter 9. Watch Out.
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