Myles Leland III scorned the season and its festivities; the forced good cheer, the garish decorations and the ridiculous extravagance that mired his fellow workers. He would not be sorry if Tara’s cd player met an untimely end or if Lucy stopped hanging mistletoe from one end of the bullpen to the other in hopes of catching Jack and Sue unawares. He would not regret the day that Bobby took his Pin the Antlers on Rudolph poster off the common wall by their desks or when the nativity scene that Sue had arranged by the coffee pot could finally be packed away. And he definitely wouldn’t miss the outlandish Christmas sweaters Jack had taken to coming into work in – all hand knitted by his mother. Everyone was of good cheer – except himself. Bah! Humbug! Scrooge had it right….

“Excuse me sir, you’re standing on my wing.” A melodic voice intruded on his morose musings. Myles looked around in surprise. An angel stood at his side, waiting, as he was, for the light to change and he was indeed standing on the tip of one finely feathered wing.

“You should be more careful,” he complained gruffly before shifting his heel to release the wing.

The angel frowned. “I should be more careful?” she echoed. “You were the one standing on my wing.”

“It was dragging on the concrete, where feet not wings belong,” Myles retorted rudely.

“So you think that gives you license to traipse all over it?” the angel glared at him furiously.

“Not very angelic are you?” Myles smirked; wondering at the length of time the light managed to stay red. He wanted to get away from lunatics who wore angel costumes in the middle of downtown DC.

“I’ll have you know that I’m a sight more angelic than you are,” huffed the angel defensively, “and I just earned my wings. I’m not used to them yet. Besides, they gave me the wrong size. They’re too long.”

“I imagine they just make a standard size, not taking into consideration a person’s height…” Myles mumbled, wishing fervently for the light to change.

“Angel, not person. Angels wear wings. Which brings me to the point. Myles Leland III I am an angel sent by God to…”

Myles gazed at the ‘angel’ in astonishment. One eyebrow raised, and then two, before he tossed back his head and howled. And the light still didn’t change.

“That wasn’t the reaction I was expecting…” grumbled the angel.

“How did you think I would take that announcement?” Myles asked scornfully.

“With reverence, a certain awe, I wouldn’t have minded if you’d fallen prostrate on the ground like the shepherds did. Those were the good old days…” The angel was clearly miffed.

“Who put you up to this?” Myles demanded.

“Pardon me?”

“Come one – was it Manning? This would be his style. Hudson? He’d be in cahoots with somebody. Lucy still trying to get me back for…well never mind that. Or Thomas, I bet it was Thomas. You have to watch those quiet ones. Whoever it was, just tell them we had a hardy laugh and get lost.” Myles pushed the walk button repeatedly trying to get the light to change.

“You know pressing that button a hundred times isn’t going to do any good. You’re just going to wear it out. The lights are programmed by a computer and…”

“Okay it was Tara – you sound jd\geekish enough to be a cronie of hers.”

“You really are a rude, belligerent man,” the angel rebuked, her wing feathers clearly ruffled. “Well, that’s why I’m here. To turn your heart. It has come to my attention through the Department of Divine Powers, that you are at a crossroads in your life and frankly, you’re heading down the wrong road. Hence God has sent me to tell you…”

“Silence! We may have to stand at this infernally slow red light together but we do not need to converse,” Myles said rudely.

“I don’t believe you understand what you’re saying or who you’re saying it too…I have powers…”

Myles flashed his creds, “Yeah, well so do I, and unless you want to spend the night enjoying the fine hospitality of an FBI holding cell, I suggest you shut up!”

“Excuse me? Excuse me!” the angel levitated in her anger. Myles frowned noticing her rise to his eye level. What kind of trick was this?

“It isn’t a trick, you cretin, it’s a God given talented. It comes with the wings. And yes I can read your mind, pull out your thoughts – disgusting as they might be. Why the Department picked you out as worthy of Divine Intervention, I will never know, but here we are destined to work together for the good of mankind this Christmas season. So get with the program, buster and listen up.”

Myles turned his back and walked away. He would cross over to the Hoover Building down the block. The extra walk in the biting wind would be worth it to get away from that lunatic.

“Okay – no more gentle persuasion here. I’m pulling out the big guns,” the angel warned as a mighty wind picked up and pushed Myles backwards, pinning him to a lamppost. Myles had the presence of mind to reach for his gun.

“I am armed and…” he started to say, only to have the gun whisked from his fingers by some unseen force.

“You dare to draw a gun on an angel?” She was in a royal snit now. “Hello – you do know you can’t kill us, right? What a waste of time. And you with a Harvard education! Listen, mister, you might not like it any more than I do, but we’re stuck together with this assignment and you can either make it easy on yourself or harder. Either way, you don’t say no to God, got that?”

“You are delusional; probably psychotic and definitely an escapee from a lunatic asylum, if they have such things any more. And they should with people like you roaming the streets…” Myles said trying to struggle against the restraining wind. Why wasn’t anyone coming to his aid? There were bound to be agents out on their lunch breaks.

“No one is going to help you because no one can see us. Part of the powers invested in me by the Department. Now, as I was saying, we have an assignment. You need to sort your life out…and in the process help your friends and associates see the true meaning of Christmas. You do that, and I’ll get a promotion and you’ll go down the right road and much happier trust me. So…”

“Trust you – a violent angel? More like a Viking – running rampant through the streets, accosting innocent people…”

“Innocent is hardly an adjective I’d use to describe you Leland,” the angel scorned unangelically. “You know, you’re really annoying me. And when I get annoyed I end up doing crazy things. It’s my worse fault.”

“Is that a threat? Again totally angelic. Which side were you on again? I ‘m having a difficult time figuring that out based on your actions…” Myles felt a whoosh shoot through his body, he felt his insides churning and twisting as he spiraled downwards and landed on all fours. “Arf?”

“Much better,” the angel sighed in satisfaction. “I told you it could be easy or hard, depending on you. Guess you just chose the hard path. Here’s the deal. You want to return to your human form? Well, there’s only one way to do that. Change the tides of Christmas. Make a difference, give a gift beyond monetary value. Find the true meaning behind the glitz and I might just turn you back. Go on now – off you go. Oh and I’ll stop by periodically to check up on your progress,” the angel added, looking down at the furiously barking little dog. “Don’t even think about biting me. I’ll give you a shock,”

Myles ignored her warning and sank his teeth into an ankle. Electricity shot through his body, and frizzed his fur. Yelping he let go and watched her vanish, leaving him suddenly dodging the large and dangerous feet of people hurrying by. He scurried out the way and huddled in the entranceway of a deli. The aromas coming from the place seemed to more pungent -- much more interesting from down here. He pressed his nose against the glass and let out a yelp of surprise as he saw his reflection for the first time. That witch of an angel had turned him into a Dandie Dinmont Terrier!


“It has to be a trick...some witchery. I can’t be...” Myles scratched the side of his neck in frustration...with a hind foot. “What am I doing!?” he yelped, surprised at his bawdy behavior. “Where is she? I’ll pull every feather out of those oversized air-beaters when I get my teeth on her!” He growled and snapped his anger, raising the hackles on the back of his light gray fur.

“Take that, you mongrel!” Myles found himself flying through the air, courtesy of a bright yellow broom wielded by an irritated butcher’s wife. “Scaring my customers away! And don’t you come back!” she warned, watching the wire-haired dog disappear quickly down the crowded sidewalk.

Ducking into an alley, Myles panted heavily, his ribs aching from the offending kicks that had sent him tumbling from one passer-by to another. No one had taken any pity on the small dog. And who would? Snarls, yips, and angry barking did nothing to tug at human’s heartstrings. “God, I’m thirsty.” He looked around, his tongue flicking back and forth in his mouth in an attempt to cool his heated body and calm his quaking nerves.

“I doubt that God is listening to you, at the moment.”

Myles turned quickly at the voice, looking for the winged agent that had imposed this ridiculous curse upon him. Growling his hatred, he lifted his nose, searching the air for her scent.

“You’re not even close,” she whispered teasingly, “to finding me, or the Christmas Spirit. Better get moving. Tah-tah.”

“Get back here!” he barked furiously, almost scaring himself with the viciousness of his high-pitched voice. He knew it was futile. His nose had already told him she was gone. Sitting down next to a garbage can, he whined softly. “Now what do I do?”

Should I even asked what decided you to write a Christmas story???

Not that I'm complaining, I just love it !!!

See, that's me ->

I totally forgive you the angst on your other story in WIP. Post away, post away!!!!! Yeehaw!!!!!

kav

It's nice to be forgiven!


“Anyone seen Myles?”

Tara glanced up from her paperwork at Bobby’s question, noticing for the first time that the desk next to his remained vacant. “Can’t say that I have. Maybe he’s caught in a tide of great joy and is shopping for presents for everyone.”

“Like that would ever happen. Not even my grandmum’s eggnog would loosen him up.”

“Ebenezer would be proud of our Myles,” quipped Tara. “Maybe the Ghost of Christmas Past has him.”

“Well, wherever he is, he’d better get back soon or D will have his head.”

“Whose head?” Sue released Levi from his leash and hung up her coat and scarf.

“Scrooge.” Tara grinned as Sue immediately looked towards Myles’ desk. “See...” she giggled, catching Bobby’s eye. “I rest my case.”

Short but funny

If Myles is ever turned back into himself, he'll need eggnog, lots of eggnog to forget he was ever a dog !!!

The sound of sirens reached his canine ears long before the flashing lights turned the corner. Fighting back the urge to sit back and howl at the noise, he instead ran toward the street, stopping at the curb to watch and wait. It didn’t take long before three unmarked cars screamed by, traffic quickly moving out of the way to accommodate them. Before Myles realized what he was doing, his four little legs were carrying his lean body down the street, dodging light poles and gawking pedestrians as he kept pace with the dark cars.

“I know those cars. I never noticed the odiferous stench of the third one in line, but I know those cars.” He ran with renewed excitement, lungs filling with air with each squeaking yip that escaped from his muzzle.

The cars screeched to a halt in front of a bank. Doors flew open and guns were drawn. Pausing only for a second, the terrier stopped and took in his surroundings. He could smell fear, only it came from inside the building. Moving slowly, he edged his way toward the large picture window, plastering his wet nose against the glass. Inside, three men with dark ski masks had guns pointed at terrified customers.

“Looks like we got here in time...three kings robbing the bank, perhaps intent on making an oriental trip.”

I know that voice. The scent of the Aussie’s cologne reached his quivering nostrils, setting his tail to wagging. Stop that! You are not to show feelings. This tail wagging...it’s a dead give-away. Thomas says when Levi wags his tail... What am I doing? Now I’m comparing myself to that golden excuse for a dog that drools on my Armani suits? Myles snorted. Well, sneezed-snorted. Raising his head loftily, he focused once again on the crime scene before him.

“Jack, you go around to the back. Sue, see if you can see what any of them are saying. Bobby, you’re with me. Myles...” D paused, mumbling a few choice words under his breath. “Tara...back up Jack.”

From the safety of the car, Sue stared through her binoculars, trying to get some kind of information from one of the bank robbers. “He’s saying he thinks they’re surrounded.” She paused for a moment. “They’re going to each take a hostage. Jack, one is already heading for the back. Do you copy?” She knew it was a silly question. With Tara backing him up, there was no one to relay anyone’s answers to her. All she could do was hope that they had heard her. Focusing back on the two remaining suspects, she failed to notice Levi sticking his head further out the car window, sniffing the air.

Bobby and D stood on either side of the door. The gunmen began to approach, each one with a hostage gripped tightly against his chest. Myles waited, crouched against the wall, one ear constantly flicking back and forth, picking up the sounds from both inside and out. It took a moment before he realized a larger presence loomed beside him, body tensed with excitement. Levi, what are you doing out here? The thought had left his mind before he realized what he had done. The answer came just as quickly.

Backing you up. But I won’t ask what you’re doing here...or how...or why. That’s not a dog’s place.

Almost stopping to argue, the sound of air whooshing out of the door as it began to open, quickly drew Myles’ attention back to the task at hand. Guns pointed everywhere: bank robbers held guns to frightened hostages, FBI Agents pointed guns at bank robbers. DC police sirens were announcing their arrival and the promise of more guns. The scent of fear nearly smothered the canines.

On three. I’ve got the tall one.

What’s three? And I want the tall one. I’m bigger than you.

Fine...but do it NOW!!!

The dogs leapt from their spots, each going for pant legs of the unsuspecting criminals. Startled, the bank robbers' grips loosened and their hostages struggled free, leaving the two men with guns pointed directly at their faces.

Smugly satisfied with their accomplishments, the dogs stood panting, doggie smiles on their faces while watching DC’s finest handcuff and stuff two of the three “kings” into waiting squads. Bobby and D immediately informed Jack and Tara, who had been patiently waiting with king number three.

“Levi!” Sue scolded, immediately leashing the golden and pointing her finger at him. “I don’t know if I should hug you or shake you!”

“Now you know how I’ve felt, Miss Thomas,” smirked Jack, giving her a wink that sent chills down her spine. Bending down to Levi, he whispered, “She’s been there, done that, buddy. Don’t worry. You’re fine.”

Bobby slapped the roof of the police car, sending it on its way. “And who might this little bundle of fur be?” He scooped an unsuspecting Myles up from the ground, holding him at eye level. “Sort of a cute little ugly kind of thing...with his hair going every which way. Look at this.” He gave the Dinmont’s curly top knot a hearty rub. “Kind of like Myles’ hair on a bad day...doesn’t know which way it wants to go.”

Myles narrowed his wide brown eyes, the thought of growling coming quickly to his mind.

“I wouldn’t do it. He might drop you, and from that height, you’ll get hurt. You’re not a cat, you know.” The angelic voice pierced his brain, taking his mind off the unpleasant sensation of being dangled six feet above cement.

“No collar.” Tara scooped him from Bobby’s hands and hugged him to her, wrapping her coat around him. “It’s almost Christmas. We can’t take him to the pound. Not after what he just did.”

“I agree,” Sue answered, putting Levi in the car. “What’s a little more dog hair on the seats? He can ride with us.” She smiled sweetly at Jack as he held the door for her, their eyes locking for just a second longer than usual. “Is that okay with you, Jack?”

As if he can say no to that. Come on Myles. You don’t even have to wear a seatbelt.

Tara ruffled the terrier’s head and gently placed him on the back seat next to Levi. “You take good care of him, Levi. See you at the office.”

Too cute! Love the Myles is doing his own impersonation of Levi the wonder dog! [with Levi! ]

I so was not going to get into a story with Myles as a dog, but... ah, Jill, you hooked me. LOL Keep up the great work!

Keep going ... you're on a row ...


I just love Myles as a dog and Bobby's hair comparaison

Okay -- come clean Jill, you're not really writing this. One of your dogs has taken paws to keyboard and whipping this off and in your frustration you are taking it out on us in your WIP story.

Love the semi-lingering glances between Jack and Sue. And the office banter about Scrooge and the dogs taking the crime scene and...everything. More please!

kav

dogs to the rescue!!!
loved it, Jill! post more!!

Jill, I don't know yet wether to be thankful for another great Christmas-story (by the looks of it, it is going to be great), OOOORRRRRR yell at you for leaving us/me breathless on the angst-filled cliffies of your story in WIP...... Oh well, I guess we can give Chip and Kari some time alone to get used to married life while we enjoy Myles as a dog...

BRING IT ON!!!!!

A jubilant bunch entered the bullpen. Tara sang out, “You better watch out, you better not cry...”

“You better not pout, I’m telling you why...” Bobby added in his deep voice.

“Santa dogs are coming to town,” she replied, giggling ecstatically.

Levi wagged his tail in pleasure, heading for his water dish. Someday they’ll figure out that I can’t take my coat off and that they keep that car way too hot. Myles, care for a drink?

The little gray dog froze in place, aghast at the thought of lapping drool-slobbered water from a dish. It wasn’t even water from the water cooler! It was tap water! Recalling that earlier in the day, he had almost imbibed from the muddiest of puddles in the alley, he took a deep breath and stiffly walked toward the silver dish. At least it’s stainless. Thirst quenched, he turned and headed for his desk, leaping into his chair and making himself comfortable.

“Look at that!” Bobby laughed and gave Myles’ chair a spin. “The little nipper thinks he’s an FBI agent. My, my...Myles Leland the Third, you have certainly changed.” The snort and disdainful look the Dandy Dinmont returned at Bobby’s words had the entire bullpen in fits of laughter. “Did you see that?” whooped the tall agent. “That was a Myles look if I ever saw one! And I say, until our wayward bah-humbug agent returns from wherever the Ghost of Christmases Past, Present or Future has managed to whisk him for the afternoon...that this dandy little doggy shall be referred to as none other than Myles.”

Everyone laughed, except, of course, the terrier in the spotlight. He raised his aristocratic head before turning his back to the entire group, settling down on the chair with his nose resting between his paws.

“Aw...now see, Bobby. You’ve hurt his feelings. Besides that, we can’t call him Myles. Think of how confusing it will be. Someone will say, ‘Have you seen Myles?’ and someone else will say, ‘I think Lucy just took him out for a walk. He had to pee.’ Can you imagine what kind of confusion that will cause?” They all stood there, pondering Tara's comments for a moment.

“Myles, it is,” shouted Bobby, raising his coffee cup in salute.

“Here, here,” cheered the rest of the team, laughing and heading back to their desks and piles of work.

I just love it when people listen to each other....

I hope Myles won't get hurt by anything anyone says...
on the other hand, he will sure learn a thing or too about himself..

My dogs and I are howling. I'm so excited you're writing this. I can barely contain myself!!!!!

That's a much better version of the song.

That one played out in my mind like an episode teaser. I'm still grinning!!!!!



kav (who is having a hard time containing her excitement)

I should know better than eating my cereal while reading your story, Jill ...

almost choke ...and my laptop needed a good clean ...

“So...who’s going to take him home?” Sue looked around the bullpen, waiting for someone to respond. “I’d do it, but...”

“I’ll take him,” Bobby answered. “After all, he’s my partner. Right, Myles?” He reached over and patted the wiry coat, getting a slight wag from the despondent dog’s tail. “See. He even likes me.” Scooping the canine off the chair, he headed for the door. “I’ll just take him for a quick walk, and then head on home.”

Before anyone could argue, he was out the door. The burst of cold air had him quickly pulling the collar of his coat up around his neck. “I can’t believe Sue does this so many times a day...every day...in every kind of weather.” He stood somewhat patiently, waiting for Myles to do his business. “Come on, pup. Get on with it, so we can go home.”

Myles blinked, at first confused, then embarrassed, and finally indignant. “It’s one thing to use a public restroom. It’s another to publicly excrete ones bodily...”

“Shush, Myles. No sassing. With that high-pitched bark of yours, you really do sound like a Leland. Now, hurry up and get it over with.” He gave the terrier a boot with his foot, sending him toward a bush.

Myles sniffed, turning his head in disgust. I’ve smelled dead people that didn’t reek that badly. Lifting his leg, he took careful aim, leaving what he thought was a much richer, full-bodied smell...the kind that would cause other dogs to take notice. He walked behind the bush and finished relieving himself, puzzling only for a moment when he felt an irrepressible urge to feel the sensation of earth shredding beneath his hind feet. Firmly scraping them alternately across the ground behind him, he sent tufts of sod flying through the air.

“Hey there, Myles. That’ll do!” Bobby picked up the little gray dog and headed for the parking garage. “We’ll have to stop and get you a leash and collar. Something festive...that Tara would like. Maybe something with bells. Red for sure. Shiny. Have you ever noticed how her eyes light up? Something that shiny. I think there’s a pet store on the way. We’ll have to get you some food, too. Canned or dry? Maybe I’ll call Sue. She’ll know.”

Bobby, I think you just revealed something...(giggles)

you're portraying Myles as dog almost too good!

Ah yes, you make me cry at one place and laugh my fool head off at the next. You're enjoying yourself on this one aren't you? I sure am!

I'm expiring here!!!! Poor Myles facing the cold hard reality of being a dog.

Wiping the tears out of my eyes, gasping for breath...that is soooo Myles! Even in dogdom he can't shake that good breeding, eh?

I'm glad he found so privacy -- but hey -- Bobby, you're supposed to pick up after your dog -- don;t you have those laws in the States? Now that would be hysterical -- Bobby picking up Myles' :whistle:


Ah yes, Myles a job well done. Good dog!!!

and now Bobby's gone and revealed a certain secret that won't be a secret for long if Myles ever returns to human form...though I kind of like him this way.

kav

Jill, this is beyond funny!

I must admit, I had not desire to read a Myles story (sorry all you Myles fans) but when I saw you writing one, I was intrigued. I'm so glad I stopped to read. You are a brilliant writer - and I'm loving Myles as a dog! Tooooo funny!

“Oh God, you can’t expect me to eat this!” Myles turned up his nose at the lumpy brown glob of dog food in front of him.

“For someone that does not embrace Christmas, you certainly have been talking to God a lot lately.” The familiar face of the angel peered down at him as she daintily moved her wings away from the bowl of food. “Bon appétit,” she giggled. “And remember...all you have to do is...”

A flurry of vicious barks had Bobby springing from his bed and racing to the kitchen, gun drawn. “Myles! What is it?” At the arrival of his partner, Myles immediately ceased to bark, dropping his head dejectedly. “It’s okay, little buddy. You’ve had a big day. Come on. You can bunk with me.” He lifted the terrier, cradling him against his warm chest, stroking his head. “Just no more barking.” Lightly tossing his new companion onto the bed, Bobby crawled under the blankets. “G’night, Myles. Sleep tight.” As he closed his eyes, he mumbled something about wondering where the real Myles was. Myles didn’t catch it. He was already fast asleep.


The sound of the alarm clock nearly shattered Myles’ eardrums. He sprung up from the bed, intent on turning it off. Instead, his nose knocked it clumsily to the floor, his suddenly uncoordinated body following close behind. “Ouch” he yelped, landing on his snout.

“Hey, mate. You okay?” Bobby reached down and scooped up his pet, pulling him back onto the bed. “No need to kill the alarm clock.” He stretched and groaned, then settled the little dog on his chest, staring him in the eyes. “Don’t know why that miserable contraption was going off, anyway. It’s Saturday. We can do as we please. And right now, I please to go back to sleep.” Giving Myles a pat on the head, he rolled over and buried his head beneath a pillow.

Myles, on the other hand, pleased to go outside and relieve himself, having decided that using Bobby’s bathroom would not be practical or possible. Here goes nothing. He groaned, “Manning, I need to go out.” He pushed his nose under the pillow, poking his teammate’s cheek, his doggy whine finally reaching Bobby’s ears.

“What? You need out now?” Bobby moaned and rolled back over, staring into the woeful eyes beseeching him to rise out of bed. Pulling on a pair of sweats and a sweatshirt, he grabbed his keys, a plastic bag and the new leash and collar. “If you’re going to make me go out, we might as well make the best of this and go for a run. And I’ll even do my civic duty and clean up after you, this time.”


After the run, Myles didn’t care what he ate for breakfast. Wolfing down the dog food he'd ignored the previous night, he licked the bowl clean and eyed Bobby for whatever leftovers he could finagle from him. How is it that Levi does it? He had never been one to cave to the canine’s wiles, but he knew Bobby led the list, seconded narrowly by Jack, who carefully walked a fine line between keeping Sue happy and Levi content. “How about some of that bacon,” Myles yipped; sitting up taller on his hind legs to better see the table.

“Hey, you already know a trick! Good boy, Myles!” He tossed a slice of bacon in the terrier’s direction, laughing when the dog caught it and chewed it hungrily. “What else do you know?” He went through the basic commands...sit, down, roll over, shake. Nothing else seemed to work. “Well, no self-respecting Leland would follow commands like that to begin with, so it’s all right by me if you don’t.”

The sound of the telephone took Bobby out of the room, leaving his plate fair game. Hopping quickly onto the chair, Myles made short work of the bacon and eggs, licking the plate clean when he was through. He could hear laughter and the words “be right over,” as he jumped back down onto the floor, heading for his water dish. Never knew bacon to be so salty.

“That was Tara. Seems her car is on the fritz and she needs a ride over to the nursing home. Her neighbor fell and broke her hip last month, and Tara pays her a visit every weekend. I think spreading a little Christmas cheer sounds like the perfect thing to do, especially if it means spending a little extra time with a certain sheila.” Myles watched as Bobby picked up the plate and placed it in the sink, oblivious to the fact that his breakfast was missing. “I’m just going to hop in the shower. Be right back.”

Oooo - A nursing home. Myles ought to have a good opportunity to spread some Christmas cheer and do something unselfish!

The new and improved Myles/Bobby relationship !!!

Hehehe! Jill, you are excelling again, (as if whatever inkpen you ever touch doesn't turn gold! )

maybe Myles could join P.A.T.S- pets as therapy society.....and bring some cheer to everyone and hopefully join Bobby and Tara together...

As I read this I've come to realize something very important...doggie bladders are much smaller than human ones.

And on that note -- I have to take mine out to piddle (my dogs, not my bladder ) I'll comment more later.

kav

The struggle to get the Christmas collar on was much more difficult than Bobby had ever imagined. “Hold still you mangy mutt! It’s just a collar...and a right festive one, at that!” He tried to hold the 22 pounds of wriggling fur between his knees while he buckled the shiny metallic red strap, complete with five silver jingle bells.

“I will not be caught dead in this... this cheap imitation lambskin piece of manmade synthetic junk you call a collar! I happen to know that the finest leather collars have been manufactured for canines, and I expect nothing less than the best!” When Bobby showed no signs of giving up, he added noisily, “Okay, use that cheap brown thing you used this morning. Anything but bells!”

“Listen to him howl,” giggled Tara. “I think he’s complaining.” She reached out and took Myles, holding him firmly in her lap. “There, there, Myles. I know it’s not an Armani collar, but it’s Christmastime, and the folks at the nursing home will so enjoy seeing you decked out.” She managed to calm him enough for Bobby to get the offensive piece of material buckled around his dignified neck. “There. Aren’t you handsome!” She glanced up at Bobby, who was grinning from ear to ear. “I meant the dog, Bobby.” Her face began to flush. Finally, ever so softly, she added, “Okay. You, too.”


The nursing home was full of smells, most of them Myles found odious. A certain one permeated many of the rooms. He couldn’t define it, and he couldn’t avoid it. Following along obediently beside his partner, toenails clicking against the shiny linoleum, he watched in wonder as expressions changed on the faces he passed. He hesitated when a wrinkled hand reached out towards him, his reaction causing the leash to tighten, jerking him forward again.

“Sorry about that, mate. You wanted to stop and say hello?” Bobby reached out and grasped Tara’s elbow, pulling her to a stop. “Myles wants to say hello.” They watched as the terrier’s ears flattened back against his head and his eyes grew big and luminous. Slowly he sniffed the shaky hand that reached for him, his ears the only ones picking up the murmurings of a man recalling a time long ago. Before he realized what he was doing, he gently placed his paws on the legs of the wheelchair-bound man, the tip of his tail wagging in delight as gnarled fingers worked their way through his frizzled coat.

The elderly man spoke to the dog, his eyes seeing the dog of his childhood, a dog of his adolescence, and every other dog he had loved in his eighty-some years. Myles stayed in his position, accepting the loving touch, and in turn, giving his own. His tongue darted out tentatively, barely brushing the soft, wrinkly skin. Once he started, he found he couldn’t stop, especially when the sound of laughter erupted from deep within the old gentleman. A nurse passing by stopped, her mouth falling open. “Why Ervin, I don’t think I’ve heard you laugh in ....well, ever since you came!” She looked at the dog and the couple standing proudly behind him. “Thank you! That’s the nicest thing anyone has done for him since he’s been here.” She patted Ervin on the shoulder and ruffled Myles’ silky topknot. “Merry Christmas, little fella. You’ve worked a miracle here.”

Bobby smiled and Tara blinked back tears. “We’ll stop again on our way out, Ervin,” Tara reassured, scooping Myles up into her arms. “I promise.” As Tara carried him the rest of the way, Myles sniffed the air. The offending scent that had lingered around the old man was gone. Could it have been...loneliness?

okay you nearly have me in tears with that one.....and i am soon heading out to work, thinking of all the lonely people in my ward...oh no here i blow

Nothing 'nearly' about it, Ails....she really had me in tears. I hope Myles 'the human' will take on a little bit of Myles 'the dog', because this was so sweet of the little bloke....

I'm using this emoticon entirely too much lately. You wonderful writers are leaving me in a fit of tears!

That was such a sweet, realistic scene, Jill. There is so much loneliness in nursing homes. Argh...gotta go find some tissue!

I am stupdefied by your talent, compassion and ability to pour emotion through your keyboard. I am also speechless.

kav

That Myles... Especially after all the fuss over the collar!!!



“Well done,” the angel chirped, sitting on the end of Emma’s bed. “How did it feel?”

Myles didn’t answer, fearing his barks would frighten the silver-haired woman lying in the bed. Instead, he chose to think his answers.

He...he reminded me of someone...someone I once knew, but can’t seem to place.

The angel smiled. “You’re on the right track, Myles. Keep up the good work and you may become human again, after all.”

He looked at her with a startled expression on his face. Huh? What did I do? His question came too late. She was gone.

“Emma, this is Myles. We thought you might enjoy some Christmas cheer.” Emma’s face lit up at the sight of the gray terrier. “He has on jingle bells, just for you.” Tara gave Myles’ ruff a shake, jingling the collar with the movement. “What do you think?”

“Why, that’s the most beautiful sound on the most handsome little dog I have ever seen! Where on earth did you get him?” The spry little woman reached out and took Myles from Tara, settling him on the bed next to her.

“Well, I guess you could say he got us!” Bobby replied, with a wink. “Someone,” he added, eying Tara fondly, “objected to him having to spend Christmas in the pound, so he’s staying with me until we find him a home.”

“A home? Who could resist such a fine looking Dandie Dinmont? Just look at those eyes. They’re so...soulful. And these cute little ears.” She began to examine him from head to toe. “They come from the Scotland area, you know. My grandmother had one. ‘Brave and independent’ she used to say.” Reaching the canine’s posterior, she chided the couple. “He still has his little nuggets! You know what Bob Barker always says!”

“Madame, watch your hands,” Myles barked, tucking his tail tightly against his private parts. “And who is this Bob Barker?”

Tara and Bobby burst into laughter. “Sounds like he doesn’t care for the thought of being neutered, Emma!”

“Well, if you don’t find a home for him, let me know. I’ll be out of here in another month, and a little dog like this would be grand company. Of course, we’d have to take you to the vet for a little snip-sip,” she cooed, rubbing her nose against Myles’ wet one. “But you won’t feel a thing, and you’ll be much happier for it.”

He fought every panicking urge inside him. His body tensed and his eyes widened in horror, but he stayed put. It’s Christmas! Let her talk! Cheer her up! She’s stuck here in bed! You can do this! Remembering how the gesture worked on Ervin, he gave Emma’s nose a quick flick with his tongue. At her instant laughter, he began to wriggle his long body, inadvertently releasing her grip on his sides. Free, he bowed to her and shook his head, jingling the bells around his neck.

“Oh Tara! This little man sure knows how to spread the spirit of Christmas, doesn’t he?” Emma gently patted Myles on the head. “Makes me forget why I’m even in here...and makes me look forward to the day I can go home. Thank you, little fellow.” She pulled the still clowning bundle into her arms, giving him a hug. “You come and visit me again, soon.”

“We will, Emma,” assured Bobby, his arm slipping around Tara’s shoulder, giving it a squeeze. “It’d be our pleasure. Merry Christmas!”

"Help control the pet population; have your pet spaed or neurted. [salutes] Goodbye everybody!"



Ahhh...The Price Is Right....one of my fav shows as a younger guy......wish it played at a more reasonable hour...



Now you're getting there!!

poor Myles...he must have been teriffied!!!

Oh my gosh -- what would happen if Myles doesn't figure out what the angel wants him to figure out in time and he gets adopted by Emma and pays a visit to the vet and then gulp..well you know...and then he finally clues in and gets changed back into his human form? I guess there wouldn't be a Mylese IV?


kav

poor Myles even the thought must be thumping his little heart....

Myles rode in the car in silence. Christmas cheer? Spirit of Christmas? But all I did was...

“You brought joy to others. You made a difference. Was that so hard?”

He made no reply, barely acknowledging the angel’s sudden presence. His mind had drifted to a time long ago when gnarled hands had lifted him to a lap, bouncing him on a knee. Laughter had filled the house-- a house filled with the scent of pine and gingerbread...and love.

“Angel,” he whispered softly, “I understand. Please, turn me back. I know what to do.”

“Bobby, he’s whining. I think Myles needs to...you know...be walked,” Tara giggled. “If we keep this dog, we really do need to find him another name.”

“We?” Bobby smiled at the blush that rose to her cheeks. “I like the sound of that word.” He pulled over to the curb. “Here’s a park. Let’s take him for a stroll.” Taking Tara’s hand in his, they began to walk, laughing at the antics of the little terrier as he chased squirrels, barking noisily when they scurried up the trees.

“Looks like he’s enjoying himself.” Tara looked at her small hand in Bobby’s large one, and then turned her eyes up towards his. “Thank you for today.”

“It doesn’t have to end, you know. Today...” he quickly added, grinning at the flush on her cheeks. “How about dinner?”

“Sounds wonderful,” Tara sighed, tingling from head to toe. “What about Myles?”

“What about me?” Myles Leland III walked out from behind a tree, a red jingle bell collar twirling around on his upraised finger.

“Our dog...his collar...what have you done with him?!” Tara gasped.

“Oh...that little gray beast with the obnoxious bark? A lady with quite the angelic smile claimed him. Guess she’s been searching high and low for him since yesterday. She was very relieved to get him back.” Placing the collar in Tara’s hands, he smiled warmly. “See you both on Monday.”

But...but...but...but...Tara never got to say good bye to doggy Myles

I just had time to catch up on all the new posts that have appeared! I loved this story, Myles as a dog is such fun and you certainly captured dogginess! Although I nearly wet myself with laughter when Emma suggested Myles should be neutered! Poor Myles!

He did though learn his lesson and I hope he'll be more giving in the future, although it was a little sad that Tara and Bobby didn't get to say goodbye and Emma didn't get a little friend.

Excellent story,

Sairs

I love it, I love it, I love it!!!

But that wasn't the end, was it???

One more post to go. 4,999 words......not counting Kav's introduction.
If Marlene could do it.......I decided I could, too!!!


Jill

And I thought I cut it close with 4996 words !!!

Jill ... I'm impressed

“Greetings, everyone!” Myles strode into the bullpen, a brilliant red Santa hat atop his head. “And a Joyeux Noël to you all!” He carried a red velour satchel over his shoulder, which he placed upon his desk with a flourish of his hand. “My esteemed colleagues, I have for each of you, at this season of Christmas, a gift of giving.” At the perplexed and somewhat skeptical looks focused in his direction, he opened the sack and for each member, extracted a colorful box wrapped with a strip of bright red velvet ribbon—adorned with five silver jingle bells. With eyes shining brightly, he delivered the boxes around the room. “As you know, Christmas is a time of giving, of remembering the greatest gift that was given to us...God’s gift of love in the form of a baby. It is my proposal that this season, we forgo the commercialism and glitz thrust upon us, and change the tide of Christmas by giving a gift that comes from the heart.”

He sat on the edge of his desk, joyously watching the expressions on the faces of his co-workers as they opened their presents. Each box contained a letter and a Santa hat. Sue opened hers and began to read. “Sylvia Richards is 90. She loves peanut brittle. She spent much of her life studying ballet and danced the Nutcracker every year for 25 years.” She looked up, eyes filling with tears. “This is a person...”

“This is a person, should you accept your gift of giving, that you will visit and give the gift of time...and love. Each box holds the name of a nursing home resident in need of someone special in his or her life. I also have procured, through the local animal shelter, the temporary use of suitable canine and feline companions, should you desire one to accompany you on your visit. It seems to have a rather...magical affect, so I am told. Levi, of course, you’re more than suitable, and your presence is mandatory.” He swooped up the golden’s empty water dish and strolled over to the water cooler to fill it. “For you.” He set it in front of the retriever, patting him gently on the head.

“Well done, Myles.” The angel beamed at him from across the room. The blonde agent smiled peacefully, his arms crossed satisfactorily across his chest, watching the exchange between teammates who were excitedly reading their letters to each other. “May I ask who the person you will visit is?”

Myles opened the paper for the angel to read. Ervin is 84....

FIN Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!

Bravo, Jill!!

Very well done... a totally enjoyable, heartwarming read! Thank you so much for sharing it!!!

Oh wow! That was incredible! Masterfully done. Bravo, Jill!

Fantastic, wonderful, fabulous job!!

Wonderful message, wonderful, creative story!!!!

Myles ... you amaze me ... those gifts were so thoughtful ... and that you kept Ervin for yourself just warm me up inside

Jill ... beautiful story ...thank you !

Just read this from start to finish and only one word comes to mind


FANTASTIC!

Oh Jill that was stupendous!!!! And I love how Myles got one more squirrel chase out of it at the end before changing back to human form. And the tie in with the nursing home is sheer brillance. This story was so artfully woven together and I'm very sad that it is ending. However very hopeful that you will just have to start writing another one really soon (or keep your wip going forever. )

kav

Jill, the ending was perfect. I loved the way each of them had a person to visit at the residential home. That was a tender and very giving ending.

I also loved the way Myles noticed Levi's need for water, the experience cetainly helped Myles to develop his character and Christmas spirit.

Thank you for sharing, I hope you have a fantastic New Year.

Sairs