The Roar of the Night

6

It's been three months since Alex and I moved into this little house in the woods. The decision was not easy, but it was necessary to keep his parents safe from the constant attacks of these villains. Although we have heard that they are still haunting the city, here in the forest we have found some peace. However, that tranquility also brings with it a strange emptiness, a feeling that something more is to come. I like watching Alex work. I often watch him as he concentrates on his computer, programming. Today, I couldn't help but ask him—What are you doing? —I told him while tilting my head, curious. He looked up and smiled at me.

—Work, Rex. I'm a programmer, I work from home. That means I can't always be with you, even though I'd like to.

I nodded, although it's still a little difficult for me to understand everything he does. However, Alex never lets me get bored. His parents visit us constantly, and on those days they teach me new things. Alex's mother, with her infinite patience, has taught me how to cook and clean. 

Although, to be honest, I still prefer running through the forest and climbing trees. I have always been fast and agile, and now those skills have been enhanced. It's an incredible feeling, climbing to the top and feeling the wind on your face, although I make sure to get back before Alex realizes I'm gone. Tom, on the other hand, has taught me how to fish and play chess. Although I'm more into action than strategy, I enjoy our games and the talks we have. It reminds me of the old days, when I used to catch butterflies in the backyard. At night, Alex and I sleep in the same room. Before, I used to sleep next to him, curled up next to him. But now, with my new size, we need two large beds. Still, there are nights when Alex lets me sleep with him, and those moments remind me how much our relationship has changed, but also how much it stays the same.

One afternoon, while we were fishing together on the nearby lake, I decided to talk to Alex about something that had been weighing on my mind.

"Alex... I want to tell you more about Venom," I said, looking at him as he cast the rod into the water. He paused for a moment, giving me his full attention.

—Go ahead, Rex.

I explained to him how Venom had chosen me because we were compatible. I don't regret who I am now, but I know that I will never be an ordinary dog ​​again. As I said it, I decided to show him my right hand, without the suit. The appearance was as grotesque as in my dream: no fur, rough skin, and the human form disturbingly present. Alex didn't flinch; He just took my hand and held it firmly.

"Let me talk to him," he asked, and I nodded.

At that point, I allowed Venom to take control and talk to Alex. The voice that came out of me was deep and resonant, different from my own, but full of curiosity.

"Why are you doing this, Alex?" —Venom asked.

Alex sighed, looking at the horizon.

—Years ago, when I was married, my wife cheated on me and left, taking my daughter. It was a hard blow, and Rex was my unconditional support. He was there when my father died, and he quickly accepted Tom into my life. Rex has always been with me, and although he is different now, he is still my best friend.Venom seemed to reflect on those words.

—But I have turned your friend into a monster. Why are you helping me? —Venom asked.

Alex looked at my hand again, where there were now five fingers and a palm

.

—I see something here that many villains don't have, something that Tom and I do: a heart. Rex is still Rex, and that's what matters.

Venom remained silent, allowing Alex to hug me. I felt a warmth in my chest, a feeling of safety and acceptance that I hadn't felt since this all started. When it was all over, I took off my mask and let Alex scratch my ear, just like old times. Venom instinctively covered his ear, but I told him it was okay, that I also enjoyed that simple gesture.

Just then, the fishing rod began to ring. I pulled hard and pulled out a big salmon. Alex and I laughed as we placed it in the basket. But, as we were about to leave, Alex's phone vibrated. He took it out of his pocket and, as he read the message, his expression changed to a mixture of surprise and concern.

—Rex... we have to go home.