Chapter 21: Heroes

Susan sat quietly on Tucker's bed, trying very hard to be patient, not an easy thing to do while her fate was being decided for her.

She had given up Khai's body to the Council members and hugged Tucker who leaped into her arms.

"Are you okay?" Tucker's pupils were so huge they filled most of his eyes. "Yes," she said. "I'll explain later."

Vinnie expressed his happiness by head-butting her knee. "Nice," he said, eyes half-lidded as he grinned at her.

She leaned forward and planted a kiss on Vinnie's forehead. "Thanks, beautiful," she said and giggled.

Even Vinnie laughed.

"Captain," Albert called. "A moment." Vinnie looked stunned. "Sir?"

"You've been chosen as the new Captain," Albert said. "You've earned it, Vinnie." Susan was sure her big friend was blushing under all that fur.

"I didn't do it alone, sir," Vinnie said.

"Don't worry," Albert said, "we know the role Tucker played in all this." Albert actually bowed his head to the butterscotch tabby who nodded back.