Work Text:
2019
His few weeks on this planet had been a very confusing time, really. Just today for example, he’d been chewing on his sister’s ear when a pair of hands gripped him gently, picking him up suddenly. A woman had been staring down at him, her eyes looking very softly at him.
“Oh isn’t he beautiful?” She’d said to the woman who left his food out for him as she cradled him in her arms, and he’d felt himself relax. This woman smelled very nice and her paw was patting his head very softly, he had felt his eyes start to close in contentment.
The next thing he knew he was awake again, something moving underneath him, the world zipping by from the window, none of his brothers and sisters in sight. He let out a little whine.
“I’m sorry, Buddy.” The nice lady said “It won’t be too long and then we’ll be home.” Home, he very much liked the sound of that, he crawled towards her, hoping to rest in her lap again. She sighed but didn’t try to move him.
“You’re very sweet, aren’t you?” She said softly, looking down into his eyes, he wagged his tail in response, he certainly thought so. “You won’t be staying with me though, you’re going home with my little girl Katie.” He didn’t like the sound of that, he wanted to stay with this woman who smelled so nice, like grass, and flowers, and something that made him feel very warm. He whined to let her know.
“Well, I suppose she’s not really a little girl anymore, but you know, I still think of her that way. She’s had a very tough few years I’m afraid, but she just started a very exciting new job so we’re very pleased.” So, he was going to go home with this woman’s pup. The way she was talking about this Katie, did make him want to meet her. And if she was this woman’s pup, how bad could she be?
“And that’s where you come in. She used to be so happy, and she still is sometimes, but you can look after her right Buddy?” And he felt, very oddly, that if this woman trusted him to do it, he would just have too.
And he waited very patiently, for two nights while the woman patted his fur softly, and let him sleep curled up by her bed while she’d told him about his new Mum. And honestly, he was getting a little impatient to meet Katie, who sounded very nice. She worked in a very fancy office apparently, and lived with her sister and her mum seemed very worried about her. He had been sure that he was going to meet her last night when the woman had said,
“Look very cute please. We need to win her over.” And he’d felt a little confused, Did Katie not want him? Would she not like him? He had whined a little nervously, shifting in the woman’s arms as another, younger woman came though the door, her dark hair swinging over her shoulder as she looked around the room.
“Mum I can’t believe you did this honestly-Oh!” She said, the last word a soft little coo as her eyes settled on him. He sat up a little, his front paws resting on the woman’s arm as the new woman reached her hands out for him, picking him up and staring deep into his eyes with her own very kind ones.
“See, Edwina, sweetheart, isn’t he perfect?” The woman was saying. He sighed, so this wasn’t the Katie that he’d heard so much about. This must be her sister. She smelled very similar to her mother. Very sweet and happy, and safe. He very much liked these women, but where was Katie? He sighed in time with this new woman, the one called Edwina.
“Well I suppose my new roommate is very sweet.” She said, touching his nose to hers briefly, he gave it a lick for good measure as he wagged his tail at her happily. A small yip asking Where’s Katie? I want to meet her.
“Do you think she’ll like him? I think she just needs something to take care of, keep her company. Other than you obviously.” The first woman asked, her face pinching a little worriedly. Edwina smiled brightly.
“I think she’s going to love him. He’s perfect.” And he couldn’t help but hope Edwina was right.
And now he’d been bundled in the woman’s bedroom, flopping down tiredly beside her bed, instead of being free to roam the house as he had before. Though she had said:
“It won’t be for long, and Katie’s coming.” That had his ears pricking up. Katie was coming today, and he really hoped that she would like him, because otherwise what was he going to do? Would the nice lady keep him? This all seemed very tiring, perhaps there was nothing to do but wait. He could hear voices downstairs, the one named Edwina was here, and a voice he hadn’t heard before. He let out a little sigh and decided to pass the time, with the small bear the nice lady had left him with, a chew would surely make him feel better. He heard footsteps on the stairs a little while later, and then the woman was back picking him up gently and pressing her lips to the space between his ears.
“Time to meet your Mummy, little one.” She said softly as she placed him in a box, which was very dark and he felt a little excited as the box started to move. This woman was taking him to meet Katie. He had to stay quiet. He stopped moving and he could hear voices outside the box, he shuffled a little, nervous, and then suddenly everything was very bright again. He reached his paws out to see where he was and looked into the face of a woman. Her eyes were a little wide, as though she hadn’t expected to see him, her hair was a little curly and it looked like it would be very fun to nose around in. This must be Katie. And he liked her instantly. She smelled very nice, like a flower and something else but she just kept looking at him. He jumped out of the box and into her lap to indicate that he’d very much like to have his head petted if she didn’t mind, smiling up at her for a second. Some water seemed to fall from her eye, and suddenly he had been picked up, and was sandwiched between Katie and the nice woman, Mary, Katie had called her he was sure.
“I love it, and I love you.” Katie was whispering to Mary. He let out a yip. He very much liked her as well.
“That’s quite alright, Katie.” Mary said but she sounded a little funny, as though she had something in her nose.
Katie sat back down, her fingers finally stroking through his fur. His tail wagged.
“You’ll need to decide on a name.” Mary said, but he was barely paying attention, he’d noticed that Katie had something near her hand, he moved over to give it a sniff, but it felt cold against his nose so he gave up, looking back up at Katie, instead. She was staring down at him, smiling a little and then she said:
“Newton.” And the word seemed to echo towards him. Yes, he liked the sound of that. He was Newton, he barked to let her know. Her smile grew, “His name is Newton.”
Newton wagged his tail, putting his paws on her chest and nosing at her face as best he could, she was very soft, he liked that. And he liked that noise she made, a little laugh. He had made her happy. Yes, he was very much looking forward to his life with Katie, and he couldn’t help but feel a little proud that he was already doing what Mary trusted him to do.
2020
Newton sighed wearily, Where on earth was Katie?! She’d left last night after taking him for a little walk, and she’d been acting very funnily. She wouldn’t sit still! Which was very inconvenient because Newton had had a mind to fall asleep curled up on her lap tonight.
“There’s no need to be nervous right Newton?” Katie had said while she stood in front of the mirror, putting something n her face. “It might not even be a date right?” Newton had huffed from his place on the floor. He didn’t really know what a date was so he didn’t feel confident giving any other kind of answer. She’d left him with a kiss on the head just like she always did her fingernails scratching his head when she said,
“Be good. I’ll be back soon.” And then she disappeared into the hall, and he could hear a very deep voice out there just before the door closed. Newton had pricked his ears up and nosed around the door after it closed, slightly curious before giving up and settling onto the sofa for the night. Katie would be home soon, he was sure. Except she wasn’t. He’d taken himself off to bed when it had gotten late, a little sadly, dragging his little bear, Morton, with him. But now it was morning, and she still wasn’t home. And he did’t even have Edwina here for company. It was very boring really, but he was starting to get a little worried. What if something had happened to Katie and he hadn’t been there to look after her? Newton whined, flopping back down onto the sofa. He would just have to wait.
He didn’t know how long he’d been waiting when the front door opened. Newton’s ears pricked up as he heard footsteps enter his home. He bolted off the couch, sprinting down the corridor, leaving Morton somewhere along the way, desperate to see Katie, only to see a man standing at the end of the corridor. Newton didn’t like that at all. He leapt forward, his front paws landing on the man’s legs pushing him backwards against the wall. The man looked a little startled, his arms flailing around and Newton let out a little huff of amusement, intent on pushing this newcomer out the door. And then Katie’s voice said:
“Newton, No!” And his heart leapt, as he yipped in greeting Katie! Spinning towards her, noticing with some satisfaction how the man unbalanced slightly again. Newton bounded towards her as she crouched down to meet him, leaping into her arms, as she cooed at him,
“Oh there’s my boy! Did you have fun last night?” He felt his tail wag as he nuzzled into her hair. And then it stopped. Because Katie smelled different. There was her usual flowery smell, but something else lingered. It was woody, like a kind of tree, earthier than Kate’s usual scent. It was this Man’s, all over Katie. And Newton found he didn’t like that one bit.
He wriggled in her arms turning to eye the man curiously. He was tall, staring down at Newton, with dark hair, and his eyes kept flicking upwards, nervously Newton realised. Good. The man cleared his throat.
“Hello, Newton.” He said, taking Newton’s paw in his hand which Newton eyed warily. “I’m Anthony Bridgerton your Mother’s… friend.” He finished. Newton huffed. He was very well aware the kind of friend this Anthony wanted to be, and from what Newton could see, he certainly wasn’t good enough for Katie.
Before Newton could wriggle out of Katie’s arms she laughed loudly.
“Anthony Bridgerton, you are such a dork.” She said, moving closer to Anthony. So that Newton was practically pressed against his chest as she brushed her lips to his. Ugh, this was ridiculous, it was time for Anthony to leave. Newton wriggled out of Katie’s arms his paws scrabbling across the floorboards, making to scratch at the front door. He heard Katie sigh.
“I’ll have to take him for a walk, I’ll just get changed.” Excellent idea in Newton’s opinion. Anthony, time to go.
“Do you need any assistance with that Miss Sheffield?” Anthony’s deep voice echoed through the room. Newton huffed, Why on earth would she need assistance? She could manage to take Newton for a stroll perfectly well. Thank you very much. No input required. But apparently Katie didn’t feel the same way because she laughed happily, and tugged Anthony further into their home. Newton sighed trotting down the hall to collect Morton before flopping down behind the front door to wait.
Clearly, Kate had been out with Anthony all night. And she didn’t seem to want to be rid of him any time soon. It wasn’t that Newton was opposed the the idea of Katie having a mate. Quite the contrary. Another person to pet him and give him little treats like Edwina did sounded very nice indeed. But Katie was the best person in the whole world. He’d known it from the second he saw her. And when she’d picked him up from the bed that was supposed to be his when he cried that first night and held him to her chest while she cried herself, Newton had known that he had to be the one to protect her. Katie was so happy when Mary and Edwina were around, smiling and laughing, but sometimes, as soon as they turned around, the smile slipped right off her face. And sometimes, when she was very sad her whole body shook and it was like she couldn’t breathe as she held him tightly to her chest and he let her pet him until she was calm again, with his nose pressed into her neck. Katie didn’t need any more reasons to be sad.
Ugh, Anthony was back now, and good god he was holding Newton’s leash. Surely Katie didn’t mean for Anthony to take him out. Anthony shifted nervously as Newton eyed him.
“Umm Newton, I’m just going to put this on you.” Anthony said holding out the leash as he squatted beside him, Newton caught the faint scent of Katie mingled with Anthony’s own scent. He huffed, turning to sit at the door, waiting, Morton still in his mouth. He was certainly not going to give Anthony the satisfaction of acknowledging him.
“I’m not sure you’re supposed to take the bear with you.” Anthony said gently scratching behind Newton’s ear and damnit it felt amazing.
Newton ignored him, they would wait for Katie in silence, thank you. Her footsteps were clattering down the hall now, thank goodness, Newton’s tail was in desperate danger of wagging if Anthony scratched his ear for much longer.
“You know you’re not allowed to take Morton outside, Buddy.” Katie said softly, Newton dropped him instantly.
“He said he was allowed.” Anthony muttered. Newton preened as Katie took his leash, opening the door to the flat.
“Mmm he’s very good at getting away with things he’s not supposed to.” Katie hummed. Newton didn’t think that was exactly fair, but wagged his tail anyway as they made their way outside, the fresh air blowing gently through his fur. He tugged on his leash, interested in investigating a nearby tree, tracking where the neighbourhood dogs had been on their walks this morning, he lead them further down the street, his mood much improved.
“Newton, Buddy, hold up,” Katie said and he paused his investigation briefly, his eyes scanning the street, watching a little boy eating ice cream a short distance away.
“Can you just hold him for a sec. Anthony? I just need to tie my shoelace.” Katie said, and he felt his leash exchange hands. He huffed, a little displeased. Perhaps he could pretend to see a squirrel in the distance, wouldn’t that be funny? To watch Anthony fall on his face on the pavement. Ahh yes, Newton was sure now, there was a squirrel in the distance. He took off running, Anthony giving a very startled Jesus Fuck. Which was every bit as satisfying Newton had imagined, and apparently Anthony trailing down the street did look very funny, because he could hear Katie’s laughter echoing after them.
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“Newton, Buddy, we’re going to stay at Anthony’s this weekend so you have to be on your best behaviour.” Katie had said as she slid his legs through his travel harness, and Newton had fought the urge to growl a little at the thought of spending multiple days in Anthony’s space. Newton had begrudgingly made peace with the fact that, at least for now, Anthony seemed a fixture in Katie’s life. And perhaps, the fact that Anthony slipped him bits of toast while Katie wasn’t looking Han’t hurt matters. Not entirely though, Newton was a corgi of some dignity after all. Anthony, while Newton was slightly loathe to admit it, did seem like a very nice man, and every time he was around Katie looked so happy. Happier maybe than Newton had ever seen her look. So that was a mark in Anthony’s favour, he supposed. But even so, Newton was not going to be letting his guard down any time soon. Even if it appeared that Edwina, the traitor, had.
“Anthony is... expecting you to bring a dog to his home tonight?” Edwina asked as she watched Newton be harnessed, holding Morton out for Kate to pack. Newton watched Morton very carefully to ensure his safety.
“Yes,” Kate said a little distractedly as she tucked Morton firmly into the bag with Newton’s food. Good. Morton was safe.
“You’re not just showing up with him, like Surprise Honey, I brought the dog! ?” Edwina asked and Katie stilled, staring at Edwina, a bag of treats dangling temptingly by her side. Newton moved a little closer, perhaps she’d give him one if he was close enough.
“No? Why would you... why do you ask?” Katie seemed a little unsure now, Eddie shrugged continuing to eat her banana, Newton wouldn’t mind a bit of that either.
“Anthony just doesn’t really seem like a pet guy, you know?” Katie shook her head.
“Well he... he told me to bring him. Do you think I shouldn’t?” Newton really didn’t like where this was going. As much as he liked staying with Eddie, who always gave him too much dinner, and some of her crisps before he fell asleep on her stomach, he wanted to be with Katie. How was he supposed to protect her from Anthony if he wasn’t even there?!
“If Anthony told you to bring him, you should bring him. I just didn’t realise you two were at the sharing a dog stage.” Edwina nudged Katie who scoffed. As she should, Newton felt, he was certainly not in any way Anthony’s pup. He was Katie’s. He didn’t even like Anthony. Tolerated him maybe when there was food around, and that was it.
“We’re not sharing a dog. My dog is just... staying at his house with me this weekend.” Katie said quickly, picking up her bags. Apparently Newton wasn’t getting a treat just now. He sighed.
“Besides, have you nothing better to do than enquire after the health of my relationship?” Katie picked up his leash, Newton eyed Edwina’s remaining banana a little ruefully.
“Not just now, no.” Edwina smirked and then, the incredible person she was, she tossed the remainder of the banana to Newton with a, “Give ‘em hell, Bud!” And for the banana alone, he resolved to do it.
“Buddy, I know that you don’t really like new places, or people,” Katie said softly to him in the car “And I know he’s a little bit prim, But I really like Anthony, so could you maybe be on your best behaviour so he doesn’t throw us out please?”
Newton huffed, he hated when Katie asked him things like that. He wanted to make her happy but Anthony was awful funny when his face went a little red. It was a hard choice. Newton yipped begrudgingly in the affirmative. If Anthony could behave, he would as well. The car stopped soon after and Katie let him out and lead him to the door of the biggest house Newton had ever seen. He was suddenly very excited, he wondered if there was a garden he might be able to potter around in, that might be nice, some grass to run around on and- No, Newton stopped himself. He was not going to allow that Anthony’s house had any charms. The door swung inward to reveal Anthony and a large hallway, with a staircase at the end. Newton did like running up stairs he supposed. Anthony crouched in front on him, shaking his paw. Very respectful, Newton noted, a little pleased.
“Good evening, Newton.” He said, scratching behind Newton’s ears. Newton yipped, it would, after all be poor manners to completely slight Anthony. Katie had asked him to be a good boy after all. Anthony stood to greet Katie, who dropped his leash, well he wasn’t going to wait around for them.
Newton trotted happily into the house, his leash trailing on his harness behind him, his paws skidding a little on the unfamiliar flooring, there really was a lot of space in this house he found. He eyed Anthony’s sofa with interest, jumping up and settling his chin against the cushion there, yes, perhaps a little chew would be nice, yes it did feel very soft. Katie, having followed him into the room, gasped
“Newton, No!” She said, tugging the cushion away from him. Newton wagged his tail, he enjoyed playing tug with Katie. But Katie’s eyes were wide, worried he realised.
“Newton, please, you promised!” She hissed at him as Anthony walked into the room, looking more than a little startled, his mouth open in surprise. Newton let go when he noticed Katie’s distress, she was right after all, he had promised he would behave. He let the cushion go watching as Katie toppled backwards a little, her back brushing against Anthony who put his hands out to steady her. Newton felt a little repentant when he noticed the tear in the side, especially so when Katie looked down at it, dismayed, her eyes wide as she turned to Anthony.
“Anthony I’m so sorry, He-” she started and Newton wanted to sink into the sofa when he heard how upset her voice was. And now, he was going to upset Anthony as well, not that he cared, but if Anthony was upset Katie would be sad for sure. But to Newton’s surprise Anthony shrugged, inspecting the small tear carefully, wrapping his arms around Katie as he said:
“It’s only a throw cushion Kate, and I wasn’t sold on it anyway.” He watched as Katie started to smile affectionately, before Anthony turned his attention towards him. “Newton, I am going to have to ask you to get down from there though.” Newton sighed as he hopped down from the sofa, settling himself on the floor nearby. Anthony’s request was very polite after all, it was for no other reason.
Hours later Newton found himself nosing around Anthony’s closet. He’d followed them upstairs hoping to scope out the sleeping arrangements that had been made for them, no sign of a dog bed. Disappointing. Surely a mark against Anthony. Well, he would just have to sleep on the bed with them, he definitely wasn’t going to sleep on the floor like some sort common hound. Newton continued nosing around the closet, a pair of slippers caught his eye. They looked ripe for chewing, he would investigate that later. He nosed around a little more, Anthony’s scent everywhere, mingled with Katie’s as he noticed one of her shirts folded in a shelf there. And then he stopped. He nosed at the article of clothing to make sure. It was very soft, and looked very warm, it had Anthony’s scent quite strongly, as though he’d worn it very recently, but there was another scent there. Soft, and sweet, and female. And decidedly not Kate’s. Newton felt indignation and anger flare in his chest as he stared at the sweater. Anthony had another woman’s scent on his sweater. Newton knew he wasn’t to be trusted. Newton hesitated for a moment before angrily, tearing at the sleeve with his teeth, holding it down with his paw. He looked down at his handiwork, satisfied, wiping his paws on it as he turned and marched from the closet.
Katie was laughing at Anthony, kissing his cheek lightly as she settled against him, her head on his chest. And honestly, Newton could not believe the audacity of this man. Anthony tilted Katie’s chin upwards, his lips touching hers, and that certainly wouldn’t do, not with what Newton had just seen in the closet. He leapt onto the bed, his front paws landing on Anthony’s legs heavily, jostling him as he stared at him, settling defiantly against the sheets. And damnit, they felt amazing again his paws, the mattress soft the sheets silky, Newton sighed happily for a second. No, he snapped back to his true task. He was not going to let Anthony sit there with his paws on Katie, while that woman’s sweater was sitting in his closet. Newton glared at him, unblinking as Anthony shifted uncomfortably. Katie was biting her lip.
“Newton, get down.” She said softly, Newton didn’t move. Katie sighed, “Newton, buddy, get down.” Newton shifted, nestling his nose against the sheets, his eyes fixed on Anthony, who swallowed.
“Buddy, please get down.” Katie was pleading a little now, desperate to move him from Anthony’s bed. Newton wavered slightly as Katie looked a little distressed in Anthony’s direction, guilt welling in his chest as Katie stood attempting to gently tug him by the collar onto the floor. Newton dug his heels in. Anthony sighed.
“Just let the bloody thing sleep there! If it means you come back to bed I really don’t fucking care, Kate.” Anthony said, finally tearing his eyes from Newton. Newton huffed happily as Kate’s hand dropped from his collar, her bottom lip caught in her teeth as she settled back next to Anthony, Sighing happily.
“I love you.” Katie said happily, her lips brushing against Anthony’s head, just like she did with Newton. He bit back a growl as Anthony sighed happily, his eyes already closing as he said:
“Love you too, Katie.” And yes, it might be very nice to see Katie so happy, but Newton wasn’t going to forget that woman’s scent he’d found tonight. Not matter how good Anthony’s bedsheets felt against his paws. Which was, he hated to admit, very nice.
And when Anthony’s Mama crouched in front of him and said “And who is this handsome boy?” Newton preening happily, startled when he caught the same scent he had on Anthony’s sweater. Newton huffed as his tail wagged when she scratched at his ear. Perhaps Anthony wasn’t all bad. That miniature sofa he had purchased was very comfortable, and yes, as it turned out Anthony’s slippers had been very nice to chew.
2021
“Okay, Newton, Bud, I really need you to help me out with this.” Anthony had said seriously to Newton this morning. And Newton had whined, looking out of the window to the big yard of the house Katie and Anthony had brought him too yesterday. Newton longed to run outside, to feel the grass under his paws, surely there would be lots of new smells outside, maybe even some squirrels to chase after. God, what an excellent prospect. Anthony picked him up, looking deep into his eyes.
“Buddy, I promise we can run around all day out there if you want but I have a very important job for you first, okay?” Anthony had said, and Newton’s ears pricked up at that. He did enjoy responsibility.
“I want to ask your mama to marry me… be my mate I suppose.” That made Newton huff, were they not already mates? They lived together, what else could they possibly need to do? Were they going to have puppies? Newton yipped.
Newton had gotten used to Anthony’s presence very slowly over the last few months. Newton had hated to admit it at first, but Anthony was very nice. He scratched at Newton’s ears, and let him sit on the sofa with him while he watched television, even when Katie wasn’t home and he always left a little slice of bread just where Newton could reach it if he stood on his back paws, sometimes it even had peanut butter on. It didn’t hurt that Anthony’s home had a very nice yard, that had birds to look at, and also, his sister Hyacinth was the best. Newton huffed, he supposed it would be quite alright if Anthony was Katie’s mate. He did seem to make her awfully happy. Katie was barely ever sad these days. She was always smiling and laughing, when she looked at Anthony, and Newton, her lips leaving a little kiss on their foreheads, and it made Newton burst with happiness.
“So what I need you to do is look after this for me.” Anthony had said, showing Newton something very small and shiny. Newton huffed in acknowledgement, “And then look very cute. Think you can do that bud?” Newton gave him a look: What do you think?
Anthony grinned, “Course you can. High five!” He finished holding his hand out. Newton tapped it with his paw and allowed Anthony to tie the shiny thing to his collar.
And so now here Newton was, lounging on a blanket in the garden, his heart singing happily as he lay with his paws up. Katie’s hand scratching his belly. And it was amazing, the sunshine felt nice and warm against him, making him feel a little sleepy, the grass smelled very nice and fresh, so many floral scents around him. He’d almost forgotten his job. Newton wasn’t entirely sure what was supposed to happen. As far as he was concerned he was holding up his half of the deal. He always looked cute after all, or at least that’s what his mama told him. Newton gave Anthony a What do you want me to do about it?! Look as Anthony gestured at him a little desperately.
Newton huffed, turning a little towards Katie, trying to catch her attention. And then he saw it.
A rabbit had just hopped out from underneath a hedge some distance from their blanket. All thoughts of Anthony’s task for him wiped from Newton’s mind, the only word echoing deep inside him: chase. And he really shouldn’t, he knew that, Anthony had given him a very important job to do, but he darted across the lawn anyway, his tail wagging, wind zipping through his fur as he sprinted towards the rabbit. Adrenaline and excitement coursing through him. The rabbit sensed danger and zipped back under the hedge, as Anthony yelled out Fuck! behind him, Newton ignoring Anthony’s footsteps hot on his heels as he darted after the rabbit. Newton was ducking and weaving as he cleared the other side of the hedge, the rabbit nearly in his grasp and then: Splat! Anthony had made a mad dive for Newton catching him by the haunches and landing them both deep in a puddle of mud. Newton yipped happily, adrenaline coursing through his body even as he watched the rabbit disappear behind another flowery bush. Newton panted trying to catch his breath, turning towards Anthony to say Did you see that?! But the look on Anthony’s face made him stop. Newton had never seen Anthony quite so angry. Not even when he’d discovered Newton had eaten a very tasty pie that Anthony’s mama had left for them. His eyebrows were frowning down at him, his mouth in a cross line.
“Newton, we agreed that you had an important job to do, did we not?” Anthony said sternly, his fingers tugging at the shiny thing he’d tied to his collar earlier. Newton whined in apology, touching his nose to Anthony’s cheek.
“I know a rabbit is pretty exciting, bud, but come on! We agreed to do this for Katie, right?” Newton huffed. Anthony was right but there was no need to bring Katie into this. He felt bad enough already.
Anthony sighed, “Well come on, we better get back.” He said, scooping Newton up and ducking back under the hedge.
“I cannot believe you ruined this for us!” Anthony was saying irritatedly, but Newton was barely paying attention. He’d noticed Katie who was laughing loudly at the sight of them, and it was still Newton’s favourite sound. His tail wagged and he wriggled in Anthony’s arms trying to get to her. Anthony held him tightly.
“Did you have fun, Boys?” She said, a broad smile on her face as she petted Newton’s head. He barked. He had been having rather a lot of fun until Anthony spoiled it. And really, what was the harm anyway? Katie was already Anthony’s mate, Newton really didn’t get what the fuss was about.
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At this point, Newton was very good at noticing the signs. The way Katie’s body would stiffen, freezing completely after several seconds, her eyes wide as she fought against it, her breath starting to come in deep gasps as though it was very difficult for her. And it all made Newton’s hackles raise. It had been such a long time since it had happened, funnily enough since Katie had started living at Anthony’s house it hadn’t happened at all. But today she’d been looking at something, a book maybe, reading something, what he really couldn’t see, and then she’d dropped it, making a loud slam against the carpet and Newton had stood instantly, a shift in the air telling him something was wrong. A low whine built in Newton’s chest as he darted towards her, watching as she collapsed against the floor, her arms wrapping tightly around her, her breathing laboured, tears running down her face.
And Newton knew exactly what to do, he squeezed himself between her arms, even as she fought against him for a second, persisting until he was settled in her lap, his nose pressed against her neck as she fumbled around for something, her voice coming out very harshly, as though she was fighting to get it out at all.
“Anthony umm…” She took a deep breath, “It’s Kate.” Newton could hear Anthony’s deep voice rumbling through the other end of the phone. And oddly Newton relaxed a bit. Good, get Anthony. He always makes you happy. He thought a little desperately. Between Anthony and him they could fix this, they could make Katie happy again.
“You… Umm.. You told me to find you if this happened. and I know you’re helping your mum but Do you think-?” Katie was saying now, her voice disappearing at the end and Newton could hear Anthony’s voice rumbling away, what he was telling her, he didn’t know, but it seemed to be working. Katie’s eyes were still wide with panic, her shoulders were still heaving but perhaps a little less so. Anthony was coming, Newton told himself, Anthony could help him fix this. They just had to wait.
Some time later, Anthony’s footsteps bounded up the stairs, the door to the bedroom flung open as Kate sobbed. Her breath coming in harsh gasps and Newton’s heart broke that he couldn’t do anything but be here. Let her run her fingers through his hair and try to stay calm. Anthony crouched next to them and Kate seemed to cry even more for a moment. A warning growl rumbled through Newton’s chest.
“It’s alright, buddy, I’ve got her now.” Anthony said gently, wrapping his arms tightly around them both, and Newton felt himself relax, nuzzling his nose even deeper into Katie’s hair, one paw coming to rest on Anthony’s leg. Katie relaxed as well, sinking into Anthony’s arms as she cried.
“I love you so much, deep breaths Katie.” Anthony’s voice said softly, the same words coming again and again. “You’re doing great, one more deep breath, amazing.”
And slowly, slowly, Katie relaxed, her breath came easier, the tears that had fallen onto Newton’s fur slowing. Newton sighed, a weight shifted from his chest. They’d done it, Katie was okay again, everything was alright.
“You shouldn’t marry me. I’m a mess.” Kate’s voice said softly. Newton whined as Anthony’s hand scratched his back.
Anthony made an odd noise like he was choking.
“Mmm but who else could put up with me?” He said, and Katie let out an odd little noise, like a laugh and something else. Like she didn’t believe Anthony. Newton privately thought that Anthony was right.
“That’s probably true. I guess I’ll have to do it.”
Anthony hummed again “Thank God.” they sat in silence for several seconds, Newton shifted his head to Anthony’s lap. Any port in a storm.
“I really am sorry you know.” Katie said “I don’t know what happened, I don’t know what’s wrong with me.” Nothing, Newton thought, anger flickering in his chest.
“There is absolutely nothing wrong with you.” Anthony echoed. “And that is my completely unbiased opinion as your future husband.” She let out an odd, huffing laugh again, her eyes lighting up for just a moment
“We all need help or support sometimes, Kate. And I can’t wait to support you for the rest of my life.” And Newton couldn’t have said it better himself.
2022
Something about Katie had been very odd recently and Newton just couldn’t put his paw on it. He’d been watching her very closely since She and Anthony had left him with Edwina for ages and it had been fun at first. It really had been. Eddie had given him so many treats and bought him a new Morton, and she’d let him sleep on her bed which he had liked very much. It had been a very long time since Newton had gotten to stay at his old home with his Eddie, and it had also been quite funny to see David, who Newton didn’t like one bit, cringe away from him as he growled at him. Newton was of the firm opinion that David had absolute no business touching his Eddie like that, he wasn’t even good enough to look at her. But even with all of the excitement, he’d missed Katie. Missed the way she would look at him every morning and say There’s my boy! and she would let him curl up on her lap, and his heart was happy knowing that he was close to her. He’d even missed Anthony a little. He’d certainly missed Anthony’s slippers which Newton was sure were going absolutely wild without him there to chew them. And then Katie had come to pick him up one day and excitement had leapt into Newton’s chest. Katie hadn’t left him at all! She’d taken him home and showered him with cuddles, and even Anthony had given him a cuddle and shaken his paw and Newton had felt warm and happy and safe.
But now things seemed different, but also the same. He watched them very carefully from the lap of Benedict’s new mate Sophie, who was stroking his ears very softly, Newton fought the urge to whine and nosed at her arm instead.
“You’re such a good boy aren’t you?” Sophie cooed softly. Newton preened, he was rather. He yipped in agreement before turning his attention back to Katie.
She was sitting across the room from he and Sophie, a bright smile on her face as she spoke to Gregory (another of Newton’s favourites). Anthony’s arm was wrapped around her his hand resting on her belly. Newton huffed. He’d been doing that a lot lately. Ever since that day Katie had come home early.
Katie had come home early one day a little while ago now, and barely paid attention to him. Usually, Newton had noted a little put out, she would pick him up, and scratch his ears or his belly and tell him how handsome he was. And yet that day, nothing. He had sprinted to the door excitedly his paws skidding against the floor in his haste very nearly sliding into the wall, and she’d breezed right past him. Without Anthony, Newton had also noticed. Newton had bounded up the stairs after her, perhaps she just hadn’t seen him, only to have the door of the bedroom closed firmly against his snout. Newton had huffed, more than a little indignantly, dropping Morton in disgust as he sat outside the door. Katie had emerged some time later with maybe the biggest smile Newton had ever seen on her face and bent to pick him up immediately. Cooing softly in his ear, their usual afternoon routine suddenly returned. And Newton had felt mollified though still slightly miffed. She’d gone out again sometime later and returned only to put a shirt on him, which was a little odd because usually he only had to wear a jumper when his paws got very cold from walking, or when it rained. But she’d looked so happy that he didn’t struggle. And then Anthony had come home and there’d been lots of laughing and crying and so so much happiness and Newton was still absolutely lost but Anthony had barely left her alone since.
“Kate!” Benedict’s voice said beside Newton. “Your dog’s stealing my girlfriend.”
Katie turned towards them already laughing as Anthony rolled his eyes when he noticed Newton’s position on Sophie’s lap.
“He’s very good at that.” Katie said moving closer, Anthony following very closely behind his had still on her back. Newton kept watching them closely, even as Sophie’s hand scratched under his chin.
“He’s just so cute.” Sophie cooed delightedly and Newton felt a stab of something like victory.
“He’s a monster.” Anthony said, rolling his eyes again. Newton bristled a little at that. Takes one to know one, Anthony. He thought. Katie moved closer again, her hand reaching out towards Newton as she said:
“I know you love him really.” And Newton was too distracted to listen to Anthony’s answer because Katie even smelled different. She always smelled like Anthony these days, their scents barely distinguishable from one another, as was the case with most long term mates he’d encountered. But this was different again, not her scent mingled with someone else’s but her own scent altered somehow, as though something deep in the make up of her person had shifted. Newton had smelled something like this before he just couldn’t… and then he knew. He’d smelled this on Anthony’s sister not long ago. Katie was having puppies.
Everything made sense. Anthony hovering over her, the smell, the way she’d seemed a little sick in the morning. Katie was going to be a mama. Newton shifted, his instincts pulling him towards her, saying protect, protect, protect. And by the time Newton leapt from Sophie’s lap and settled himself firmly at Katie’s feet he knew one thing was for certain. He would protect Katie and her litter with his life. Even if Anthony was the papa.
2023
Newton had waited very patiently he felt, to meet Katie’s puppies. But it was taking forever. And really, he was getting just a little bored. How long could it possibly take to grow some puppies?! Surely it didn’t take this long. He’d watched with excitement as Katie’s belly got round and sometimes if he laid very still he could feel the puppies moving around in there. He couldn’t wait to meet them. He could teach them to chase squirrels, and bark at Mrs. Smythe-Smith who lived next door, and he might, depending on how nice the puppies were, let them share Morton with him. Maybe. He would have to meet them before he decided.
Katie and Anthony had left in a bit of a hurry yesterday, and Newton had been more than a little confused until Eddie had arrived, with a big smile o her face, patting him softly between the ears as she said,
“Congrats buddy! You’re a big brother!” And Newton’s heart had leapt excitedly, his tail wagging as he yipped. Katie had had her puppies! That’s where they’d gone! But now he was more excited than ever. He’d torn around the house after she’d left, hiding his toys in secret spots where the puppies wouldn’t find them, he didn’t want anyone to use his things until he said it was alright. And then he waited. And Waited, and waited some more. He’d wandered upstairs with a sigh, perhaps a chew of Anthony’s slippers would make him feel better. It didn’t. But of course that was where Anthony had found him. Newton had dropped the slipper instantly trotting innocently away as Anthony sighed, scooping him up.
“Get back here, bud. We’re bringing Sprout home soon and you are having a bath.” He said, marching Newton downstairs even as he whined and wriggled, Newton hated getting bathed. He yipped indignantly as Anthony deposited him in the sink in the laundry, attempting to scamper away but it seemed Anthony was determined not to let him escape today. Newton resigned himself to the bath as Anthony said:
“I’m sorry bud, but I’m not having you getting Edmund sick.” Edmund the word seemed to echo through Newton’s mind as he was bathed. What was Edmund? He liked the sound of it, was that what human puppies were called? Edmunds? That didn’t make sense. He puzzled over it as Anthony dried him with the loud machine that blew warm air in his fur that felt very nice, and then tied a ribbon around his neck. Newton panted happily up at Anthony feeling a little special despite himself. Anthony smiled.
“See you soon buddy! Get ready to meet your brother!” Anthony put his hand out and Newton tapped it. That was their routine. And then Newton was left to wait again. He went back to chewing Anthony’s slippers.
Newton heard the door open some time later and he sprinted as fast as his short legs could carry him, slipping and sliding against the floor. Anthony had promised he’d bring Katie and the puppies back to see him, and Anthony had never lied before. And sure enough there she was! Katie looked a little tired, but she her smile was big and warm when she saw him,
“Oh sweetheart look at you! Daddy’s put a little ribbon on you!” She said happily, as Newton rested his paws on her leg grinning happily at the praise. Anthony had done a fantastic job, he did look very nice.
“I’m not having him passing anything to Edmund.” Anthony seemed to grumble. And there was that word again. Newton looked around for what an Edmund might be and then he saw it. In Anthonys arms, a very funny looking chair with a handle. Newton shifted towards it curiously, an odd scent floating towards him, a little of Katie, a little of Anthony, and something fresh and new. Katie bent beside him, tucking one hand into his collar, the other making soft pets to his head. Soothing he realised. Anticipation built inside him as Anthony reached inside the chair and pulled out the tiniest person that Newton had ever seen.
He huffed. Where were the others? Had it taken her this long and there was only one puppy? Maybe humans were different. He shook his head a little as Anthony crouched beside him, bringing Katie’s pup closer to him.
“Newton, This is Edmund.” Anthony said softly. And something clicked inside Newton.He looked curiously at Kate who nodded. Katie’s puppy was Edmund. That was his name. Newton moved forwards placing his paw on Anthony’s leg to see Edmund better. Anthony seemed to panic, moving to pull Edmund away from him but Katie’s voice rang out firmly.
“Anthony. Wait.”
Newton looked curiously down at the little person, who yawned at him, his own eyes watching curiously, and in that moment something deep inside Newton said friend. Newton pressed his nose to Edmund’s forehead licking gently to mark him. He leapt back yipping quietly ignoring the way Katie was staring at him, with a very funny look in her eyes as he sprinted from the room, searching his hiding spots quickly, he tore back through the house, Morton gripped tightly in his teeth and dropped him in Anthony’s lap, nudging it towards Edmund. And at that moment Newton knew he was very glad he’d let Anthony be Katie’s mate. If only because they’d made this.