The Story of Tiberius

Chapter 26

"Pretty birdie!" Emma exclaimed, placing a bow on Tiberius's head. The young hawk let out a groan. Sure, Alfred's granddaughter was a very sweet person. But he drew the line at the game of dressup. He didn't see the point behind it. And he definitely couldn't see why he had to be the one being decked up in fluffy scarves and glitter. Even his talons had been painted purple. The worst thing was the giant pink bow on the very top of his head. At least he didn't have to wear what she had done to Rosa, who was wearing a sparkly pink dress and makeup. Clapping her hands and giggling excitedly, Emma cried, "Grandpa! Aren't they pretty?!"

"Oh yes, quite beautiful. I think they'd agree with you," Alfred replied as he came over to see what his oldest grandchild had done to the young red tailed hawks. Feeling miserable, Tiberius gave his owner the big round eyed look. Quietly, he pleaded, "Help me."

"I itch everywhere..." Rosa mumbled, trying very hard to get an itchy spot on her back but the dress was in the way.

Laughing quietly, Alfred informed Emma, "Come on, let's clean them up. Your parents just called me and said that they'll be here soon to pick you up." Getting up on her feet, the four year old child responded, "Okay Grandpa." Together, they cleaned up all her things and put them in her little backpack. Taking the bow off of Tiberius's head, the old man glanced over at his granddaughter before whispering, "You didn't like that at all, did ya?" Tiberius let out a squeak in response. Smiling softly, Alfred petted the young hawk.

"Grandpa, can we watch Roy Rogers while we wait for Mommy and Daddy?" Emma asked, pulling herself up onto the couch with much difficulty. Picking her up and placing her beside him, Alfred replied, "Of course sweetie, only until your parents come." Interested, Tiberius and Rosa hopped up on the couch as well while the TV turned on. The screen showed a scene in black and white. Watching the screen for awhile, the two hawks were hooked by what was happening. Purring quietly, Tiberius rested his chin on Alfred's knee as he watched the hero of the show Roy Rogers ride along a dirt path on his horse Trigger while his trusty dog Bullet trotted alongside them. Everything seemed peaceful.

A split second later, two gunshots rang out as clear as day...