The Stew Pot - Part 1

Ian had to do a double take. Did he really just see that, no not possible. He was a sane man and it was the middle of the afternoon. Curiosity was waking from its slumber in his mind as he slowly walked the hundred yards or so towards the park bench. A glance to the left revealed the expanse of the dog park with a dozen dogs and their owners playing frisbee or just doing dog things. A slow pan now to the right. A grove of trees, some underbrush, the fence separating the park from Central Avenue.

It had been sitting there on the bench like a person, but how could a rabbit get that big? And what was that in it's mouth? His first impression was that it was a poodle. A red poodle? Blood maybe? OK, get a grip idiot, there are no giant bunnies eating poodles in the park. Must have been the stress. The new boss, Mr. Worthington, had only been in charge for a week, but had already amassed a year's worth of hatred from his employees. He had been forced to work late on the new ad campaign. "Be a team player. The road to the top is paved with hard work." The mantras were beginning to seem like a war-chant.

Evidence, he needed the evidence. What is that? A little drop of red barely visible against the blue of the metal bench. He slowly placed his pinky finger into the droplet and slipped it into his mouth. As he tasted the salty flavor of blood, he realized how strange he must look there hunched over the park bench with his finger in his mouth. "Just like in the movies" he mused. Could it have been real? Was he losing his grip on reality? Had Lucy thrown her diamonds into his sky? Not possible, just not possible!

His trance was suddenly broken by the shrill high pitched voice emanating from behind him. "FIFI, oh FIFI, where are youuuuuu?" The woman anxiously walking down the sidewalk reminded Ian of Mrs. Howell from Gilligan's Island and with that leash in her hand ... a shiver flew up Ian's back so fast he trembled noticeably. Need sleep! Ian turned and tried not to run as he headed home. Sleep was what he needed and damn the boss.

to be continued ...