Anekin's Story

** Hopefully, I'm making up at least some for the brutality in my original "Nicea's Story".

Please see disclaimer in Chapter 1. **


See disclaimer in Chapter 1

~~begin chapter 3

Derik had brought a simple set of clothes. But Anekin was staring at them in fascination. The trousers were loose, of a soft white flowing fabric. The tunic had long sleeves, with slits at the neckline and at both sides. Of the same fabric as the trousers. “Why are you staring, boy?” Derik asked curtly.

Anekin looked up. “I’m sorry, Master Derik. I’ve never had clothing that covered me, sir. I mean… since…” He stopped and dropped his eyes.

“Since when?” Derik’s voice was softer now.

“Since I was a child, sir. Before my family sold me.” Anekin’s cheeks had turned pink again.

“You’re little more than a child now.”

“I’m seventeen, Master Derik. Few pets ever survive past eighteen.”

There was nothing for Derik to say – Anekin’s words were true… Pets over eighteen were unheard of. Except for that mongrel of Mink’s. Derik wondered what Reis would do with Anekin. Send him away after a year? Maybe two? He watched a few more moments as Anekin stroked the fabric with long, slender fingers. “Try them on. See if they fit.” Derik looked for a chair to sit in – and for the first time, realized there wasn’t one in the room. There was nothing in the damn room. He leaned against the wall and watched Anekin pull on the trousers. They swallowed the small body, and it was obvious that Anekin had no idea what to do with the drawstring. Derik pushed himself up to show the boy. “You pull them tight and tie them.”

“Thank you, Master Derik.” After Anekin had tied the pants in place, he pulled the tunic over his head.

Derik laughed. “By Jupiter – they’re much too large. But they were the best I could find on the spur of the moment. Roll up the pant legs.” Derik looked the pet over again. “At least you can leave the room now.” He walked out the door – and returned when he realized Anekin had not followed him. “What the hell is wrong with you, boy? Come with me.”

Anekin blushed even deeper, but this time he followed after Derik.

~~

They ended up in the house’s kitchen. It was empty now. The staff had long since cleaned up from breakfast and left. Derik began going through the large refrigerator and pulled out various packages that he put on the counter top. “What kind of sandwich do you like?”

Anekin was staring at the food and looked up at Derik. “Whatever you want me to have, Master Derik.”

“Can you cook?”

“Only simple things, sir. I was never given lessons in cooking, Master.” He looked about to cry. “I’m sorry, Master.”

Derik was tempted to smack him. But it somehow turned into something else. As he neared Anekin, the boy collapsed against him and put his arms around his neck. “What?!” Derik’s first instinct was anger, but his arm slipped to Anekin’s waist and the boy held him tighter. To his great consternation, he found his hand cupping the back of the boy’s head. “It’s alright, Anekin. I didn’t expect you to be a cook.”

When finally the boy looked up, there was almost a smile on his face. “Thank you, Master Derik.”

Derik stepped back and wondered what the hell had happened. He put two sandwiches together quickly and handed one plate to Anekin. “Sit at the table.” After he’d made another pot of coffee and poured two cups, he sat with the blue-haired boy.

Anekin looked at him through long dark-blue lashes, not quite willing to raise his head. “I’ve never sat at table with a master before, sir.”

“I thought Mink ate with his pets all the time.”

Anekin shook his head softly. “No, sir. Sometimes with Riki, Master – but not with the rest of us.”

“Is it true that this Riki is a mongrel?”

Anekin raised his head. “Yes, sir. He’s very beautiful. Like you, sir. I mean… he’s like a real man. So much more than just a pet. He’s strong and he… he wants things.”

“What things?”

“His freedom, Master Derik. Riki doesn’t want to be a pet.” Anekin lowered his eyes, suddenly embarrassed.

“And you, Anekin – do you want to be a pet?”

“It is what I am, Master Derik.” His voice dropped. “Only I’m getting old now, sir. Master Thaylen may not want to keep me for two years, sir.”

Derik almost snorted. “Ahhh, yes – the magic two years. Do you know where that rule came from?”

“From Jupiter, Master. So the elite do not become bored, sir.”

“I’ve been with Reis for over seven years. Wonder what Jupiter thinks of that?”

Anekin looked up, his eyes wide. “Seven years, Master Derik? And you’re a mongrel. Master Thaylen must love you, sir.”

Derik was angry at the mongrel remark – as he always was. But Anekin had only stated the truth. He just looked at the boy. Realizing how strange Anekin thought love was. How unusual Anekin found it that people could have a lasting relationship. Not that I haven’t had the same thoughts myself.

Derik had been amazed the first day Reis stopped his car – and invited a dripping wet mongrel in. For the first week, he’d been sure Reis would molest him. And after they had begun a consensual pairing relationship, he’d been sure he would be booted out every day. Even seven years later, the thought crossed his mind from time to time. Reis was a wealthy elite. He even did business with Blondies, for Jupiter’s sake. And I am still just a good-for-nothing mongrel.

Derik knew he must be grimacing – Anekin’s face had taken on a look of fear. He pulled himself together. “Get your shoes, Anekin. Meet me at the front door. I’ll get the car.”

Derik was gone before Anekin could say a word.

~~

Anekin found his way back to his room, pulled on his slippers that had matched his outfit at Master Iason’s party and headed to the front door. He hesitated to open it – he’d never been allowed to come and go without someone accompanying him. But Master Derik had said meet him – so he cracked the door just a little. And was amazed at what he saw. A courtyard with plants everywhere. He had realized last night that Master Thaylen lived in a private home and not a large skyscraper complex like Master Iason. He hadn’t really seen it in the dark, but he had imagined it was like Festus’ home.

Now, he saw it was so very much grander. A curved stone driveway passed through the courtyard. There were benches actually sitting on grass. And people working. Clipping shrubs and watering the grass. And they were all mongrels. Dark-skinned and dark-haired. Wearing clothes similar to his. For just a moment, he was tempted to step back and close the door. But a car drove up. Not the limousine like he had ridden in last night. This car was small and without a roof. And Master Derik was driving. He forced himself to step forward and walk down the curving walkway toward the driveway.

The car had no backseat. Where am I supposed to sit? He half expected Master Derik to put him in the trunk – but the door closest to him opened – and Derik patted the seat next to his own. He would sit in the front next to the Master. It both frightened and thrilled him. He slipped in.

“Buckle up,” Derik said with a smile. Anekin did.

After several minutes, Anekin realized they were not going back to the city – and Master Derik was driving very fast. He held tight to his seat. When Derik noticed, he slowed down and flashed a smile at Anekin. “Reis says I go too fast, too. Relax – I’m good at it.”

As they were going more slowly, along roads surrounded by trees, Anekin summoned the courage to speak. “Where are you taking me, Master Derik?”

“Let’s get rid of that master thing. I don’t like it. And we’re going to get you some clothes that fit.”

“Is Master Thaylen going to have me perform, sir?”

In truth, Derik had not thought of that. But Reis surely might. He entertained business guests often. Bringing out a pet to display was at least possible. But normal men – unlike the fucking Blondies – had normal sex. They would see Anekin as available for their use if the pet performed before them. A thought that Derik found unexpectedly upsetting… “I don’t know what his plans are for you, Anekin, but today we’re just looking for normal clothes that fit you.”

“But, Mas… sir, are you allowed to buy things?”

“Why do you ask? Because I’m a mongrel?” Derik’s voice was angry.

Anekin colored way beyond pink. “I’m sorry, Master. At the pet show, the other boys said mongrels were not allowed in stores – except in Ceres.”

Derik pulled the car into the parking lot of a small country store. He held out his wrist for Anekin to see his bracelet. “Officially I’m Reis’ furniture. It gives me rights many others don’t have.”

Anekin met his eyes. “But you’re not really a furniture, sir?”

Derik rolled his eyes. “If I were, I’d be the one catering after you.”

Anekin smiled – the first time Derik had seen it. “I’m glad you are not a furniture, sir. But you are looking out for me.”

Derik chuckled. “I suppose I am – just don’t get used to it.” He got out of his car and waited for Anekin to join him.

The little store had not much of anything – but some of most everything. Derik led him to the back where there were a few shelves of clothing. He selected trousers almost exactly like what Anekin was wearing, two pair – one small and the other extra small. “Try these on.” Anekin started to undress right in front on him and Derik stopped him. “There’s a dressing room for changing – go in there. Come out in each pair, so I can see you.”

By the time Anekin came out in the first set of new trousers, Derik had also selected two tunics. He studied Anekin. The fit was much better. Not at all revealing – but Derik hadn’t wanted revealing. A little long, but someone in the house could fix that quickly enough. “Which size are they?”

“The small, Master Derik.”

“Don’t call me master, Anekin. I really don’t like it.” He had the boy turn. “Are they comfortable?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Try the others, too – and choose which tunic fits you best.”

When Anekin returned this time, Derik was more pleased. The trousers were still loose, but not so much as before and the length was perfect – barely touching the slippers. The tunic fit well, no longer completely concealing Anekin’s pleasing shape. “Are you sure they’re comfortable? Walk around – stretch your arms.”

“They feel very good, Derik.”

Derik pulled the label up from the back of the tunic. Also extra small. “Get back into what you came in.”

Anekin felt a pang of disappointment. But he turned back to obey. When he came out of the dressing room again, he held what he’d tried on – all neatly folded – and handed them to Derik. Derik shook his head and spoke softly. “You get to keep the ones that fit. See – I even selected more. You just can’t wear them until they’re paid for.”

Anekin looked up and smiled again. “Oh. Thank you, sir.”

Derik had selected two more pairs of trousers, both in a pale brown. The two new tunics were different colors – one a brown that matched the trousers, and the other a dark blue. Derik browsed while Anekin watched in silence. He selected a hair-brush, clips for the boy’s hair and other personal supplies. The last thing was to select a pair of sandals. He let Anekin pick his own.

Saden, the shopkeeper, knew Derik and sneered when he and Anekin came to the register. “So, your master has sent you out again. Who’s the little boy?” Anekin was standing meekly, looking at the floor.

“A gift to Master Thaylen,” Derik said softly – being careful of how he spoke with the citizen.

“A pet?”

“Yes, sir.” He held out his wrist, so the man could scan his bracelet.

The shopkeeper reached out and lifted Anekin’s chin. “Lovely. Is he academy bred?”

“I don’t know, Master Saden. My master did not tell me.”

“No, I suppose not,” Saden laughed. He handed Derik a bag containing his purchases and a receipt. “If your master needs anything else, have him call me. I can get whatever he wants.”

“Thank you, Master Saden.” Derik bowed to the man, took Anekin’s elbow and steered him out of the shop and to the car. “Damn bastard,” he muttered as he put the bag in the trunk. “Get in the car, Anekin.”

Anekin had just shut the door when Derik took off like a wild man. The tires screeched, and Anekin was thrown against the door. He was holding on with all the strength he possessed – sure now they would wreck and die. “Master Derik,” he shouted. “Please, Master Derik. Please stop.”

And eventually, Derik did slow down and look at him. “Calm down, boy. Hook your belt.” Eventually, after much fumbling, Anekin did manage to get the seat belt fastened – but he still hung onto the seat.

Derik grinned at the sight – and suddenly understood Saden. How intoxicating it was to hold such power. How exciting to be feared. His grin disappeared.

~~

Reis was home when Derik and Anekin arrived. They walked through the back yard from the garage, spotting him sitting at the outdoor table. Derik collapsed in the chair next to him. Anekin stood absolutely still, holding the bag of the purchases. Reis glanced at Anekin and then back to Derik. “You look miserable. Did the pet give you problems today?”

Derik looked to Anekin and pulled out another chair. “Sit, Anekin.” He looked at Reis when it was clear Anekin was obeying him. “The boy was fine. It was that damn Saden again.”

Reis shook his head and grinned. “I told you not to go there anymore.”

“Where the hell was I supposed to get clothes for the boy, if not Saden’s store?”

“So that’s what he’s holding.”

Derik faced the boy, too. He was clinging to the bag as if his life depended on it. “Yeah – clothes and some other things he needed.”

Reis put his hand on Derik’s arm. “I’m truly sorry Saden gave you a hard time. But the pet didn’t need clothes today. Most of them in the Blondie households just go naked.”

Derik sighed. “I’m surprised you don’t keep me naked, too.”

Reis grinned. “Well, I wouldn’t object of you wanted to.”

Derik frowned – but then leaned in to kiss Reis. “Only in your bedroom.”

“I told Kader to serve dinner out here. Is that alright with you?”

“That’s fine. Can Anekin eat here, too?”

“If he takes his clothes off.”

Derik stood up. “Come on, Anekin. Let me get you back to your room.”

Reis watched them go – and wondered just what the hell had happened today.

~~

When Derik got back, Reis was halfway through his salad. He looked up. “What kept you?”

“No one had cleaned the boy’s room. His bed sheets and towels weren’t changed. I saw to it and told Lamas to give him dinner. Do you realize you still hadn’t told the staff we have a pet?”

Reis smiled. We have a pet. Derik was getting used to the idea. “What did you get for him?” Reis asked between bites.

“Just some basics. Saden doesn’t carry anything nice.”

Reis nodded. “You can take him to Midas tomorrow, if you want.”

Derik put down his fork. “You still don’t need me?”

“I need you all the time, Derik. You must know that by now – every bit as well as you know I can’t take you some places. But you should also know you’re the reason I come home every night.”

Derik stared into blue eyes – and knew what Reis said was true. “Thank you.”

“Let’s get the meal over with and retire to bed. It’s been a long day.”

Derik smiled broadly. “Yes, sir.”

“Get the pet. You can see his talents.”

Derik’s smile disappeared. “Only if he gets to keep on his clothes.”

Reis was surprised at Derik’s adamancy. Their concepts of what the pet should do still differed widely. “Then we needn’t bother.” When Derik still seemed unhappy, Reis stroked his cheek. “You are all I need, Derik. All I will ever need.”

~~end chapter 3