In Alien Hands: Crashed

Crashed - Part 10

I woke up in the hotel room in a rotten mood. My thoughts immediately flew to Holli. She would be up soon, and I wouldn't be there. She'd be alone in a cage, having no idea where I was or if she'd see me again.

I wasn't scheduled to see her until this evening. I'd have to find something to do until then. Grene had sent for Peri, but he wasn't going to be here until tomorrow at the soonest. There wasn't much I could do to get her out of that cage until then.

I didn't do much that day while I waited to visit Holli. I checked my funds, they had finally come in. I ordered some clothes for me to wear until we were home. Normally, I wouldve ordered nice food for both of us to eat, maybe some new clothes and toys for Holli, but Puckle had made it all too clear that I wasn't to give her anything. I was lucky to have visits with her, she wasn't mine for the time being. Puckle was nice, I trusted her. She knew a lot about humans, and seemed to like Holli.

After I got the clothes, I tried to watch some television. No dice. I kept thinking about her. My family had warned of separation anxiety but I wasn't told I'd be the one experiencing it. I tried reading a book, nada. I eventually decided on a walk. I managed to use up all of my remaining time on the walk.

I used the money to call a cab to the quarantine facility. The driver tried in vain to make casual conversation, asking what kind of pet I had, then retorting to my answer with "but aren't they dangerous?" .

Once I got out of the cab, I was met by one of Puckle's many assistants. They were all wary of me, suspicious that I was some sort of smuggler or terrorist. I was taken through to the sterilization area, where I was told I'd have to be sterilized to prevent any infection diseases "the animal" might have.

Holli was staring intently at her only source of entertainment when I came in. She didn't give me a single glance until I said her name. The assistants explained that she was checked on constantly throughout the day, to check for any symptoms of disease.

She immediately bolted towards me, the two aliens drew back in fear. I knew better, and stayed where I was. She leaned on the bars for me to provide affection.

"Its okay Holli. Do you like your toy?" I spoke to her as I stroked her. I knew she didn't understand most of what I said, but I could tell she enjoyed the comfort. "They put your food in there so you don't get bored. The vet will take good care of you, and we'll go home. You can meet our family, they'll love you." I went on for the entire time, stroking her soft skin and talking to her.

The time went by fast, and I needed to leave. Compliance is the best way to prove that I, and therefore Holli, am innocent. My ears immediately tucked back involuntarily from the guilt of her distress. I knew she didn't understand why I was leaving, I wished I could hold her and comfort her. The two assistants pointed me into the sterilization room while I passed Puckle. She explained they needed to ensure I didn't do anything malicious while in the room, and I miserably nodded before heading out.

It was another miserable day.

Published 10/28/18