Modern Monsters

Victor the Orc

Female Reader x Male Monster

It was raining as we stepped out of the office building. Looking out from under the awning I could see nothing but dark, ominous clouds ahead of us. Riley tugged at my hand, demanding my attention.

I passed Riley's hand over to her brother's. "You two stay right here, okay? I'll go pull up the car so you don't have to get wet."

Gavin held that blank expression as he took hold of Riley's hand. "Okay."

"Can't we just go together?" Riley asked.

I exhaled through my nose. "I just got you those nice, new shoes, I'd like to keep them somewhat nice for a little while."

Riley remained quiet and started swinging her and her brother's arm.

"Stay right here, okay? I'm trying to do what Dr. Tara said today. Remember?" I looked into their eyes, each resembling their father's in a different way. Neither said anything and I felt a certain coldness in my core. "I'll be right back with the car." I turned and went out into the gloomy parking lot, getting soaked as I hopped into my car.

I took a deep breath and let it out slowly while gripping the steering wheel. In the back seat I saw the duffel bag Gavin used for his class, some empty soda and water bottles, a smattering of old french fries and snacks. I knew I needed to clean the car, but I hadn't been able to since-

I had to get the kids!

I drove up to the front of the office building and my stomach sank. Gavin was exactly where he needed to be, but Riley was off to the side stomping in muddy puddles. I hopped out of the car as quick as I could, rushing towards Riley who didn't stop despite my presence.

"What are you doing? Riley! I told you stay under the awning with your brother!" I snapped at her.

Riley just looked up at me, her shoes and pants both soaked and muddy. "You said to stay here."

I looked over at Gavin who only gave me a small shrug. "I don't want to be late for Mr. Victor's class," he said.

I frowned and quickly picked up Riley. "You're in so much trouble young lady. You're going to do chores until those shoes are paid for!"

"No!" She screamed and pushed against me, fighting me as I forced her into the car. Gavin got into the front seat quietly, putting on his seatbelt and sitting there in stony silence while I got Riley buckled and took off her shoes and socks.

I was frazzled, soaked, and muddy as i got back behind the driver's wheel. I turned and looked down at Gavin, grateful he was mindful, but angry at his indifference. I wanted to stop and break down sobbing then and there, but I had to get Gavin to his class or I'd be facing something much worse.

The ballet studio wasn't far from home. I could get Gavin to class then hurry up and get Riley home to clean her up and hopefully save her shoes. It was coming down harder as we pulled up, and before I could even say anything, Riley threw open the door and ran from the car.

"Young lady!" I yelled after her, lunging from the car and chasing her.

Riley screamed and laughed, rushing around the parking lot. Meanwhile, Gavin had gotten his things and was rushing towards the front door of the ballet studio.

I was cold, soaked to the bone, and beyond fed up with Riley. She had been doing so well, and the past week she was acting out again like before.

"Whoa there!" A heavily accented voice called out and laughed. "What's this then? A water sprite? Or some sort of ghoul?"