Living Like A Lion-The Year

Chapter 11-Million Dollars

11.Million Dollars

John and I were soon back downstairs with the TV on mute, but I soon turned it off and asked, “Who pays the bills?”

“Anna and Bob,” he replied uneasy.

“Why don't we help pay?” I asked curious, watching him fiddle with the blanket on his lap.

“One, you don't have a job and two, I don't get paid much,” he answered confused by my questions.

“Then I need a job. I want to help,” I replied quicker than he could blink.

“Um, I have a job at a vet clinic and maybe there is opening for you,” he suggested as he stared at his blanket.

“That would be great!” I exclaimed as I bounced on the couch.

“James, you will have to be careful,” he warned as he usually did.

“I know, I will be,” I replied annoyed.

“Well, I need to go to work now for about a hour; so I'll see what I can do,” he told as he grabbed his coat. “I'll be back in time for dinner.”

John returned a hour later like he said and he seemed pleased. “James, you have the job,” he told as he patted my back.

“Thank you, John,” I replied before Anna came rushing down the stairs after a phone call.

“There is more good news,” she exclaimed as she wrapped me in a hug.

“What?” I asked curious before I kissed her cheek.

“My father found the formula for the transformation and he thinks he can recreate it,” she replied as I lifted her off the ground and held her tight of my chest.

“He did?” I asked super excited.

“Yes dear, but there is one problem,” she replied, growing sad.

John continued, “It cost like a million dollars.”

“But if you save your money; then John and I will pitch in after you are a lion and we might achieve that much in a few years,” Anna finished with a smile.

“A few years...well, thanks,” I replied sullen; then I headed upstairs and stayed there, while Anna called my parents and told them I was sick. I felt sick. I couldn't believe it would take a few years. Even if it did, would they be able to find me in the zoo?