His imitation of Don Bruce was so perfect I had to laugh.
“That’s great, Nunzio. Has he ever seen you do that?”
“I’m still employed and breathin’, aren’t I?” he winked. “Seriously, though. You’re barkin’ up the wrong tree with Bunny. Believe me, you’re the apple of her uncle’s eye right now.”
“I suppose you’re right,” I sighed. “If you are, though, it leaves me right back where I started. Who is the Ax and what can…”
“Hi guys! Is that a private conversation, or can anyone join?”
We glanced up to find Bunny and Markie entering the garden.
“C’mon over. Bunny!” I waved, nudging Nunzio slightly in the ribs. “We were just going to …”
“GLEEP!!!”
Suddenly my dragon was in front of me. Crouching and tense, he didn’t look playful at all. I had only seen him like this a couple of times before, and then …
“STOP IT, GLEEP! GLEEP!!!” I screamed, realizing too late what was about to happen.
Fortunately, Nunzio was quicker than I was. From his sitting position he threw himself forward in a body check against my pet’s neck, just as the dragon let loose with a stream of fire. The flames leapt forward to harmlessly scorch a wall.
Bunny swept Markie behind her with one arm.
“Geez! What was…”
“I’ll get him!” Markie cried, balling up her fists.
“MARKIE!! STOP!!”
“But Daddy…”
“Just hold it. Okay? Nunzio?”
“I’ve got him, Boss,” he called, both hands wrapped securely around Gleep’s snout as the dragon struggled to get free.
“Bunny? You and Markie get inside! Now!!!”
The two of them hurried from sight, and I turned my attention to my pet.