A Modern Psychic Romance

By D L Hartness
Previously published under the pen name Dextrousleftie

This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance of characters to actual persons, living or dead is
purely coincidental. The Author holds exclusive rights to this work. Unauthorized duplication is
prohibited. Copyright 2009 DextrousLeftie and Love Unlimited, Inc.

Eye of the Beholder

By D L Hartness
Previously published under the pen name Dextrousleftie

1
Oh, my God, Blake Marsh exclaimed in horror. What the hell did I do in this life to
deserve this?
His partner, Lewis Vargas, laughed loudly. I can name a ton of stuff, he teased, making
Blake give him a sour look.
Har de har har. I swear, if there werent a law against shooting civilians
Aww, hes not that bad, man, his partner protested. I think hes kinda funny.
By funny, do you mean a persistent, annoying fraud? Blake demanded in disgust. His
startling steel-grey eyes narrowed as he stared at the scene taking place in the living room
nearby.
The homeowner was sitting on the couch talking to a man. This person was speaking in
an animated manner, waving his hands around and beaming at the woman as though she were his
new best friend. His eyes were sparkling, and he was eager and excited. It made Blake sick to
see it. Damn, it was bad enough that they had to put up with a phony psychic - but worse when it
was someone who was so sickeningly bouncy and happy. It made him feel old and surly just to
watch this guy in action. And for some reason, call it a streak of bad luck or whatever, he and
Lewis had come face-to-face with this guy at least a dozen times over the last six months. Hed
pop up at one of their cases like a jack-in-the-box, offering to use his powers to help people
recover stolen property or what have you.
In this case the womans house had been broken into. And even before the two
detectives had been able to finish their interview with the woman while the techs went over the
house looking for evidence, along had come that damn psychic once again. Hed rung the front
doorbell, and the shell-shocked woman had gone to answer it. Blake had felt a streak of
annoyance and outright anger go through him when hed heard that familiar light voice talking to
the homeowner out on the front porch. The beggar had told her that hed had a psychic vision
about her robbery, and that he was here to help her recover her valuables and to catch the
burglar. Of course shed invited him right in. She probably watched John Edward on TV too, and

thought that he was a miracle worker instead of a giant douche bag. Now she was chattering
away at the psychic, who was responding with just as much enthusiasm. Or probably more,
since he was as hyper as a rabbit on Speed.
Blake wanted to growl. Once again, their case had been snatched away from them by that
little fraud. He wanted to punch Attis Gallagher right in his smiling, sunny face. What kind of
stupid name was Attis anyway? Hed explained exuberantly to Blake once that his name was
from an ancient pagan God, a Roman deity who predated Christ but had had the same life story
as hed had. That was, virgin birth, holy mother, death and resurrection, the whole nine yards.
That irritated Blake too. Not that he was religious or anything, but stillApparently Attiss
parents had been hippies or wiccans or something. That must be where hed gotten this crystal
gazing bullshit from. His parents had probably encouraged him from a young age, telling him
that he was special and that he had psychic powers. Some people just shouldnt be allowed to
have kids, honestly.
Blake rubbed at his forehead, where a massive headache was forming. Should we just
leave and let him take care of it? he muttered to his partner.
Lewiss lips twitched. Man, you gotta calm down. Hes not that bad.
No, of course hes not. Hes only a total fraud who barges into our crime scenes like he
owns the place. And of course these people always act like hes going to know more than we
do.
Yes, they do expect him to know more than we do. Hes a psychic, Lewis pointed out
patiently.
He is NOT a psychic! Blake hissed, glowering at his partner. Dont tell me that youre
falling for this shit too! Honestly, Lew!
His partner held up a hand. Calm down, Blake. Youll have a stroke before youre fifty
if you keep losing your temper like this.
I only lose my temper like this around HIM, Blake pointed out, glaring at the slim
figure sitting on the couch with the homeowner.
Lewis sighed. I dont know what it is about him. Why does he rub you the wrong way
so bad? Ive never seen anybody work you up like this before.
Gah. Hes just like this annoying little animal thats always underfoot. Something fluffy
and too cute for words. Makes me want to kick him hard, Blake replied in disgust.

Lewis shook his head. Sheesh. I think hes basically harmless.

Harmless? He convinces people that hes a psychic and that he has visions. Gives them
hope where there isnt any. Worse, he makes us look bad. If the psychic can solve the case really
quickly, how come the cops cant? Never mind that he never actually solves the case, people still
act like were a bunch of useless, lazy, donut-scarfing retards. Pisses me off, Blake growled.
I can tell, Lewis said in amusement. Dont sweat it. Theyll be done soon and we can
finish the interview. Go outside if youre that worked up get a breath of fresh air and calm
down. If you end up blowing your stack and finally shooting that guy like I know you want to,
there goes your career and freedom in one fell swoop. Now, is he worth that?
Almost, Blake muttered, making his partner chuckle as he stomped out of the house
and stood on the doorstep trying to recover his equilibrium and temper both. He took deep
breaths of the cold but fresh air, and felt his anger slowly subside. As long as he didnt have to
look at Attis he could control his temper.
Hed finally calmed down when a bright voice cried out behind him: Hey, Detective
Marsh! Hows it going?! Its a beautiful day today, isnt it?!
He gritted his teeth and closed his eyes as his anger flared once more. Hello, Mr.
Gallagher, how nice to see you again, he said with elaborate sarcasm as he turned to look at the
psychic standing behind him in the hallway.
Attis missed the sarcasm, as he always did. He beamed up at Blake (he was only about
five-foot-four in his stocking feet), showing off his gamin smile. He was wearing the most awful
coat that the detective had ever seen in his life. At least five different bilious colors were swirled
together in a mlange of hideousness. It was very fluffy, and his slim body was nearly lost in it.
He wore a knitted yellow stocking cap over his wild mane of green hair (yes, green hair! The
crazy man actually dyed his hair green! He looked like a mad leprechaun!), thick leather boots
that looked like Army issue, and ski pants with rainbow stripes on them. The outfit hurt Blakes
eyes just to look at it. It made his headache grow worse, the pain pounding in his skull.
And its great to see you, Detective! Attis crowed happily. He waved a hand back at the
living room. Youll catch those guys I saw soon, huh? Mrs. Patterson will be so happy when
you do!
Blake took a deep breath. Well catch the perpetrators, Im sure, he said in a flat voice.
But whether that will have anything to do with your visions is doubtful. Very doubtful.

Attis blinked up at him. Are you okay, Detective Marsh? Your eyes are kind of squinty.
Do you have a headache? I have a thermos of chamomile tea in my car. I could go and get it for
you.
I do not need tea, Mr. Gallagher, Blake growled through his teeth. I just need you to
leave. Now.
The psychic wasnt put out by his surliness. He cocked his head to the side like a curious
bird. Im almost done, he replied. Mrs. Patterson is making us all some coffee. I dont usually
drink it, but I didnt want to hurt her feelings.
What about hurting MY feelings? the detective asked sourly. Thats what youre
doing by staying here. Plus youre giving me a headache, which hurts more than my feelings.
Attis shook his head. You need to take yoga, Detective, he noted brightly. It will help
you relax and strengthen your muscles.
Blake felt a tic developing near his right eye. His hand balled into an involuntary fist at
his side. I will not hit him, I will not hit him, I will not hit him, he chanted in his head. The
psychic gave him a concerned look. Are you feeling constipated, Detective? You should eat
more fiber, he chirped.
Blake could see the color red sliding across his vision. He simply wasnt going to be able
to stop himself this timehe took a step toward Attis, who remained standing there because he
had no idea just how much danger he was in right now. The man had no survival instincts
whatsoever. But before Blake could shit-can his career by beating a civilian to a pulp, his partner
appeared behind the psychic. Hey, Blake, Mrs. Patterson is ready to finish the interview now.
Come on, man, he said, glancing from his partners livid face to the oblivious man standing in
front of him.
Blake took a shuddering breath and somehow got himself back under control. Yeah, Im
coming, he told his partner, who looked relieved. He walked by Attis, resisting the urge to
elbow the psychic in the face as he did so.
In the kitchen, he had to endure Attiss presence as he and Lewis talked to Mrs.
Patterson. But fortunately for his health, Attis kept fairly quiet (for him) and didnt interrupt
more than twice a minute as they questioned the homeowner about the break-in. He kept sipping
his mug of coffee with a faint grimace on his pointed face, clearly not liking the taste much. How
anyone could drink the horrible colored water that was tea and not like coffee was just beyond

Blake. He was glad to finish the interview, but as they got to their feet Mrs. Patterson
exclaimed: What about the men that Mr. Gallagher Saw? You should get a detailed description
of them from him, shouldnt you?
Blake felt the muscles in his shoulders tense as Lewis said calmly: Of course we will,
Mrs. Patterson. Mr. Gallagher? If you come with me, Ill take down a description of the men you
saw in your vision.
Of course, Detective Vargas, the psychic chirped, jumping to his feet and pattering
away after Blakes partner.
Knowing that Lewis was only humoring Attis so that they could get the hell out of here
without further protest from the homeowner, Blake didnt lose his temper this time. He nodded at
the woman. Well call you as soon as we know anything, Mrs. Patterson, he told her. He left
the kitchen, rolling his shoulders to relieve the stiffness in them as he made his way down the
hall toward the front door.
Outside, he saw Lewis still talking to Attis. His partner really did seem to like the little
nuisance for some reason, Blake thought in disgust. He had no idea why. His partner was even
laughing at something that the bogus psychic was saying to him. He rolled his eyes as he
approached the two of them. Are you done here, Lewis? he asked impatiently. Weve got to
get rolling. Plenty of other crime to take care of. And after all, he went on sarcastically, Mr.
Gallagher has already half-solved this one for us anyway.
Lewis shook his head again silently as Attis piped up: I was happy to help, Detective
Marsh! I just hope that you can catch these men really quick and get Mrs. Pattersons stuff
back!
How can we not, with your valuable information to help us? the sarcasm was now so
thick in his voice that you could have cut it with a blunt object.
But of course, Attis Gallagher was oblivious even to that. Thats great! I was glad to
help! Call me whenever you need me, Detective, he produced a card out of his hideous jacket
and held it out to Blake.
The tic near his eye had been joined by one at the side of his mouth. He looked at the
card in the psychics hand, wanting to take it and rip it into a thousand pieces right here and now.
But Lewis nimbly took it instead. Well be sure to call you if we need you, Mr. Gallagher, he
said as he tucked the card in his jacket pocket.

I told you, call me Attis, the psychic replied merrily.

Only if you call me Lewis. Detective Vargas was my dad, his partner said with a grin.
A light giggle. Was he? So youre just carrying on the family tradition? Thats great, he
said, sounding truly interested. But then, Attis was always interested in people. Too interested, in
Blakes opinion.
He scowled at all of this love and growled at his partner: Can we go now?
Sure, Lewis replied with a twinkle in his eyes.
Goodbye, Detectives! Good luck catching those men! Attis called with a wave to both
of them as they moved toward their car.
Well need luck if we only have his phony visions to go on, Blake muttered as he got
behind then wheel.
Lewis chuckled. I swear, you two are more entertaining than reality TV, he remarked
as he got in the passengers side.
Yeah, well hes about as fake as a reality TV show, Blake shot back as he started the
engine.
Well, hes a lot nicer than most of the people you see on those shows, Lewis replied
stoutly.
Nice is one word for it, yes, Blake conceded as they pulled out of the drive. But not
the one that Id use to describe him.
Something tells me that the one youd use would only have four letters in it, Lewis
remarked sagely.
Blake shot him a sideways look. Howd you guess that? Oh wait, dont tell me, let me
guess youre a psychic? he said in a voice full of irony as he drove away.

2
You know, Blake, Ive been thinking, Lewis remarked, taking a bite of his ham
sandwich and chewing it vigorously.
Uh oh, his partner drawled. Were all in trouble now.

Lewis flipped him the bird in an amiable fashion. Its just that you havent had a date
in like six months. You need to get out of the house more, man, he said when hed swallowed
the bite.
Blakes brows lifted. Why do I feel a suggestion Im not going to like coming on? he
asked the air elaborately.
Lewis chuckled. Because you know me pretty well. Look, Ive been thinking. Theres
one person who consistently holds your attention, and moreover you respond really strongly to
him. Okay, maybe not a good response, but still
Blakes mouth slowly opened. Do not say it, he growled. Because I will then officially
declare you crazy and have you locked up. You cannot seriously be about to say that you think I
should ask outATTIS GALLAGHER?!
Lewis looked sheepish. Well, yeah, I was gonna, he replied with a shrug.
You really are insane, Blake declared in disbelief.
Am I? You know what they say about that thin line between love and hate, buddy. He
paused. And you certainly react pretty strongly to him more than anybody else ever, even that
guy you dated for almost a year. I just think that your dislike of him might be a symptom of
something deeper.
It is a symptom of your deeper psychosis, that is, Blake replied shortly. You have
totally lost your mind. It would be pretty hard to date somebody who makes me want to strangle
him every five minutes or so.
Im sure that if you got to know him better that urge would fade over time, Lewis
remarked. Seeing the expression on his face, his partner sighed then laughed a bit. Well, it was
worth a try. Call it the romantic in me Id like to see you be as happy with someone as I am
with Hallie. It was worth a shot, anyway.
You really think that Id be happy with someone like Attis Gallagher?! Blake said
incredulously. Pal, you are delusional as well as psychotic. Id rather date a miniature poodle.
Shit, that little bastard has something in common with poodles, in fact. Hes yappy, irritating,
twitchy and tends to piss down his leg when overexcited.
Lewis roared with laughter. That last part isnt true, Blake, he said when he could
speak again.

Well the rest of it is. Attis Gallagher is so not my type at all. For one thing, I like real
men - not short, badly-dressed little trolls with the mental capacity of a string bean.
Lewis shook his head. I think that you underestimate him sometimes, Blake, he
murmured. But still, its your life. To screw up as you see fit.
As if dating Attis Gallagher would be an improvement, Blake replied dryly. Besides,
you dont even know that he swings my way. He seems kind ofasexual to me.
Lewis looked thoughtful. I suppose youre right. He never talks about either a boyfriend
OR a girlfriend when hes chattering on. Huh. Now Im curious. Ill have to ask him about it the
next time we see him.
Christ, something to look forward to, Blake drawled in disgust. And Im sure that itll
be soon, since the annoying little fucker turns up underfoot everywhere we go.
Since thats so, you really should try to get along with him better, Lewis chided him.
Even if you dont want to ask him out, you should be nicer to him. Or at least try to resist the
urge to beat his face in every time you see him. Hes not going anywhere, after all.
Yeah, too bad about that, Blake muttered as he bit into his own steak sandwich.
Cause I can think of a few places that Id love him to go to. Starting with the bottom of the
lake, if possible.

3
Attis Gallagher looked around in awe at the large, elegant house. Wow, this is a really
pretty place, Miss Sanderby! he cried in admiration.
The elderly lady ensconced in the wing chair across from him smiled at his exuberance.
Thank you, young man, she replied. This is the house I grew up in. My father left it to me
when it became clear that my siblings were going to go out into the world and start new lives
and that I was not, she went on dryly.
Nobodys life choices are wrong, Attis said stoutly. Just different.
Miss Sanderby chuckled. My, but you are an interesting person, she said. Although I
suppose I could expect a psychic to be that way. Ive never actually met one in person before
this. Ive never believed in visions, but what you said on the phone has at least partially
convinced me that I require your services.

So tell me about this ghost thats been bothering you, Attis piped up.
Miss Sanderby sighed. It started a few months ago, she began. The visitations, I mean.
One night, I was reading a book in my room before bed. I heard this crashing sound downstairs,
so I got out of bed and went to investigate. I found a lamp knocked over and broken. I wouldnt
have cared - it was a terribly ugly lamp except that there was no one in the house but me. The
cook and the housekeeper had both gone home for the day. I was rather disturbed, but I put it
down to the lamp having been accidentally pushed or moved across the table enough that it
tottered on the edge until it fell. But then, the next night, I heard clattering in the kitchen. When
I entered it I found the cupboards open and plates all over the counters and the floor. Some were
broken. Worse, a large canister of flour had been tipped onto the floor. And something
waswritten in it.
What did it say? Attis asked eagerly.
It said two words get out. I was terrified, I can tell you. I went and called my
housekeeper, and promised her a large bonus if shed come back in that night and not only help
me clean up, but also would stay with me for the night. She did so, but I couldnt ask her to do
that every night. She has a family. And Ive been getting these visitations almost every night for
the last few months now. My nerves are on edge, I can tell you. I dont know what to do
anymore. Ive even considered moving out but this is my home. It has been since the day I was
born. I never want to leave it until the day I die. If you can help me exorcise or reason with this
apparition, Mr. Gallagher, I would pay you well. And I would also be eternally grateful to you.
Ill be happy to help, Attis said determinedly. I brought my largest scrying crystal, he
added, opening the beaded leather bag that hed carried into the house. Ill do some readings on
the house first, to see if I can find any patches of negative energy. After that, Ill decide whether
to maybe do a sance and see if we can contact the ghost. If it seems like a malicious entity, I
might decide to do an exorcism. Ill let you know when Im done.
Very well, Mr. Gallagher. Ill leave you to it. Ahh, Seymour, she said as a man entered
the sitting room.
Aunt Gladys. How are you doing? the man asked in concern, coming over to take her
outstretched hands.
A bit better today, she replied. Seymour, I would like you to meet Mr. Attis Gallagher.
Mr. Gallagher is a psychic he contacted me yesterday and said that hed had a dream about me.

That he knew that my house was being haunted. I was amazed. Hes come here today to see if
there is anything he can do about the ghost.
Hello! Attis piped up, smiling at the new arrival. How are you, Mr?
Seymour Jansen. Aunt Gladys, are you sure that this is a good idea? Hiring a psychic?
Most of them are phonies, you know, the man said doubtfully, glancing at Attis with a slight
expression of dislike on his rather thin, angular face.
I am well aware of that, Seymour, she replied with dignity. But I believe that Mr.
Gallagher is different. That he may really have some kind of gift. Dont concern yourself Im
not so far gone in senility that Ill pay him without seeing any results, she chided him.
Her nephew sighed. Well, if you think that its all right. Ill just go and see to the rain
gutters, then, he added, casting another cold look at Attis before marching stiffly out of the
room.
Im sorry about his lack of manners, Mr. Gallagher, Miss Sanderby said. But Seymour
has been a source of great comfort for me these last few months. Hes come over almost every
day since the visitations began, helping me out around the house and bucking up my courage
when it started to falter. I dont know what Id do without him.
Thats great! Attis piped up. Im glad that you have someone looking out for you. Ill
just get to those readings, Miss Sanderby, he leapt to his feet, pulling a large rose-colored piece
of quartz from the bag. He held it in his left hand, waving it around in front of him as he circled
the sitting room slowly. Hmm, nothing in here specifically, he noted. Ill just go do the rest of
the house. Ill let you know what I find.
Very well. Ill remain here and see that Cook makes us something special for lunch. Do
you like chicken, Mr. Gallagher?
Actually, he said over his shoulder as he pattered toward the open sitting room door,
Im a vegetarian, Miss Sanderby.
Oh. I see. Ill consult with Cook, then. And thank you once again, Mr. Gallagher, she
said gratefully.
Its no problem. I love to help people. Ill see you in a bit, he disappeared out the door
in his usual whirlwind fashion, heading for the front foyer and the kitchen. He intended to take
readings on all the ground floor rooms before heading upstairs. That might take awhile; this
house was pretty big. But he was determined to do a good job and help Miss Sanderby, who was

lovely old lady. She didnt deserve to be run out of her life long home by anyone or anything, not
even a malevolent ghost.
Attis went outside and circled the house, frowning down at the crystal. So far it hadnt
warmed in his hands at all, which was a sure sign of negative energy spots. That was pretty odd.
Most old houses had one or two of those spots naturally. And a house that was as haunted as this
one was should be a vortex of negative energy. Why wasnt he getting any readings? He wanted
to scratch at his green head in puzzlement. This was really strange. It was almost as if this
house werent haunted at all. But how could that be? What could be causing the things that Miss
Sanderby had described if not a ghost?
He wasnt aware that he was speaking his thoughts aloud, as he often did. Nor was he
aware of the fact that a man was up a ladder nearby, cleaning the rain gutters on the house. This
person had paused in his task to listen to what Attis was saying. His eyes began to sparkle with a
malicious, angry light. He gazed down at the preoccupied psychic, his lips drawing back from
his teeth a little. Attis Gallagher. Attis Gallagher was a nosy little busybody, who had stuck his
pointed nose right where it didnt belong this time. Something would have to be done about him,
and soon.
Attis finally came into the house and went into the sitting room. Miss Sanderby was
sipping tea and doing some knitting. She looked up expectantly. Well, Mr. Gallagher? Did you
find anything? she asked.
He hesitated. Not really, Miss Sanderby, he said reluctantly.
What does that mean? That its not a malevolent spirit after all? she questioned,
looking relieved.
He didnt want to tell her what his readings really meant. So he hedged a bit. I think I
need to do some more tests, Miss Sanderby. If thats all right with you? I could come back again
in a few days with more equipment and try again. I promise that Ill get to the bottom of this
matter, he declared, meaning it. Attis meant to find out just what was going on in Miss
Sanderbys house. If it wasnt a real ghost, he wanted to know just what or who was in back
of all of these incidents.
She looked unhappy about the lack of results on his readings, but agreed to let him come
again soon. Will you still stay for lunch, Mr. Gallagher? she asked.

He nodded. Not only did he want to keep talking to her, he was also hoping to discover
something of what might be going on in this house. She rose to her feet. Thats good. Cook is
making you a salad and something called a veggie burger for your lunch, she said doubtfully,
which made him grin.
Great, I love veggie burgers, he said happily.
Wonderful. Come this way we eat lunch in the kitchen, she led the way out of the
sitting room and into the large but homey kitchen, where a round-faced cheerful woman was
putting the finishing touches on their lunches. Attis sat at the scrubbed wooden table and chatted
with Miss Sanderby. He asked her all kinds of questions about lots of different subjects her
house, her family, her friends. They werent the most subtle of queries, but since she didnt
suspect that he was asking leading questions she answered them all readily.
Suddenly Miss Sanderby smiled at someone over his shoulder. Ah, Seymour. Your
lunch is ready, dear. Come and sit down, she pointed at an empty chair next to her.
Her nephew walked over and sat down. Smells good, he said, sniffing the air. What
have you two been doing? he asked with a sharp glance out of the side of his eye at Attis.
Oh, Mr. Gallagher has been asking me questions about the house. Ive been telling him
all about it, and the family as well. I think hes hoping to find a clue to the identity of the ghost
thats haunting me, Miss Sanderby explained.
Oh, really? Seymour replied. Is he? Thats great news. Really great news, Aunt
Gladys. Im sure that hell figure it out quite soon, Seymour said, and both the old lady and the
psychic missed the underlying spite and fury trembling in his voice as he said this.

4
Blake Marsh pushed a shopping cart down the dairy aisle of the Safeway nearest to his
apartment. He was scowling, because he hated grocery shopping with a passion. He only did it
once or twice a month, stocking up on stuff that he could microwave or throw in the oven to
cook without watching it. Lewis kept teasing him about getting a wife, which annoyed him.
Most of the types of guys he preferred were no more homemakers than he was. He didnt want
to date the male equivalent of his mom. That would be too creepy. So hed continue living the

bachelor life, while boning hot guys who didnt know their way around a kitchen any better than
he did.
Except he paused by the milk, glowering at the gallons neatly arranged on the shelf.
Lewis was right. He hadnt had a date in almost six months now. A few one night stands, but
nothing really satisfying at all. He had to get out more, find someone who really attracted him.
He vowed to do that as he leaned over to grab a smaller carton of milk. A single guy wouldnt
use a whole gallon in a month. Hed hit the clubs tonight and look around.
A sudden image of a pointed, elfin face suddenly flashed through his head. Blake drew
in a sharp breath of shock and disbelief. Why the hell was he seeing a picture of Attis Gallagher
in his head when he was thinking about finding a guy?! Damn it all, this was Lewiss fault! If
his partner hadnt made that suggestion to him yesterday at lunch, he wouldnt be thinking about
that crazy pseudo-psychic at all. What had been going through his partners head to make such a
stupid suggestion?! Attis Gallagher was the most irritating person that Blake had ever met.
Dating him would be akin to cutting his skin with a razor blade over and over to see if it would
hurt.
He tossed the carton into the cart and moved on, scowling even more blackly now. Blake
needed to get laid, and he needed to forget the ridiculous idea that Lewis had come up with. He
was sure he could use one to do the other. He simply had to pick someone up tonight. Yeah,
thats what hed do. There would be a ton of hot guys at the clubs. There had to be at least one
hed want to fuck, maybe more. His day was looking up. Hopefully his night would do the same.

Blake finally pushed the full cart up to the front a bit later and paid for his groceries. As
he was standing in line, waiting for the woman to finish ringing up his purchases, his steel-grey
eyes roamed idly over the other check-out stands. Suddenly they came to a halt and widened
slightly. He could just barely make out a head of green hair rising above the divider over there.
The owner of said hair was so short that the ridiculous emerald-colored locks just cleared the top
of the divider. Blake didnt try to fool himself into thinking that this could be anyone else except
for the annoying Attis Gallagher. No one else he knew had hair dyed exactly that ridiculous
shade of green. He sighed, hoping that hed get out of the store before Attis. If the psychic saw
him, hed want to talk to Blake. And talk, and talk, and talkafter a half an hour or more of

enthusiastic chatter, the detective would want nothing more than to strangle the little nuisance
where he stood.
Not that he didnt want to do that all the time anyway. He paid for his stuff hurriedly with
his debit card, and pushed the bagged groceries out of the store without looking back. He didnt
want to give Attis Gallagher a chance to see his face. The fake psychic would be sure to call out
to him to wait, and hed make such a scene that Blake would do so simply to save himself the
embarrassment of being pursued by a yelling green-haired troll.
He made it outside with a hefty sigh of relief, moving toward his car. Blake used his key
to open the trunk of his pride and joy a restored 67 black Mustang. He began tossing bags
into the trunk carelessly, just wanting to burn rubber getting out of the parking lot. He stiffened
as he heard a familiar merry voice saying something off to his left. There you go, Mrs.
Henderson! You have a great day, and dont forget to try that tea I recommended for your
arthritis.
I wont, Attis. What a good boy you are, an older voice quavered. Thank you so much
for all your help.
I was glad to, the psychic replied cheerfully, clearly meaning it. Drive carefully, Mrs.
Henderson.
You too, Attis, there was the sound of a car door opening and closing, and Blake lifted
his head a bit to glance cautiously over in that direction.
He saw the slim man walking back across the parking lot away from a large sedan, where
hed just helped an older lady put all of her groceries in her car. The psychic was carrying
several bulging bags of his own, and was heading purposefully for the brightly-colored
Volkswagen Beetle that was his normal mode of transportation. He was smiling, his face half
turned up to the watery early spring sunlight, clearly enjoying himself and life in general. He
was wearing another stunningly ugly coat, this one less puffy but with (of all things!) FRINGE
running down the sleeves! Blake shook his head at Attiss amazingly bad fashion sense. Was
the guy color blind? He had to be otherwise how could he prance around in all of those
hideously awful outfits all the time? Or maybe it was just sever retardation he was willing to
believe that, too.
Sudden movement in the corner of his eye made Blake turn to look left beyond Attis. A
car was turning into the parking lot, and as the detective watched it began to accelerate. With

reckless speed the car began to bear down on Attis! The oblivious psychic was about to be
smeared all over the parking lot! Blake moved without thinking, hurling himself away from his
car and out across the blacktop toward the small figure in a low linebackers tackle. He hit Attis
just before the car would have, throwing them both to the pavement in between two cars. He
heard a squeal of tires, and looked over his shoulder to see the car accelerate even more as the
driver hit the gas and fled.
Hey, a light voice protested from under him. Blake realized that he was practically
squashing Attis, his much bigger body completely covering the psychics small form. He pushed
away, seeing the pair of big, innocent hazel-green eyes staring up at him. Detective Marsh?
Attis blurted out in surprise. What are you doing?
Saving your life, the detective grunted as he flexed a sore shoulder muscle.
What are you talking about? Attis said, sitting up slowly. He winced at several scrapes
on his hands and also one cheek.
Somebody just tried to run you down, Blake replied abruptly. He waved a hand at the
parking lot. Whoever it was just drove away like a bat out of hell. So why is somebody trying to
kill you, Mr. Gallagher? Whatd you do above and beyond your normal annoying behavior?
The psychics brows drew together in puzzlement. You must be mistaken, Detective,
he said earnestly. No one would want to kill me. Im sure of that.
Blake frowned at him as he sat back on his heels. Well Im just as sure that someone
WAS trying to kill you just now. You should go to the hospital and file a police report. That way
you can get some protection.
Attis stubbornly shook his green head. No. I refuse to believe that someone tried to kill
me. I think that youre just seeing what you want to see, Detective, because youre a police
officer. You probably misconstrued something perfectly innocent. Now if youll let me up, Ill
get my groceries and go home.
Blake wanted to growl and smack his own face at such unreasoning stubbornness. Why
was he not surprised? Attis Gallagher was a pain-in-the-neck in every situation. So youre just
going to go home and wait for whoever that was to try again? he said, glaring at Attis darkly.
The psychic sighed. Im sure if there were some threat to me in the physical world I
would have felt it or had a vision about it by now, he replied confidently.

That again! Blakes fingers itched to reach for that skinny neck. He didnt know quite
what to do he couldnt force Attis to go to the hospital or to file a report. But if he just let the
little nuisance go, and something happened, hed be to blame. And the instincts of a cop
wouldnt let him do that. No matter how much it disgruntled him, hed simply have to do
something he REALLY didnt want to. Look, Gallagher, he ground out. I know what I saw. If
you wont file a report and get some protection, then will you at least let ME protect you?
Attis blinked, his mouth opening a little. What? he said. What do you mean,
Detective?
Blake took a deep breath and spoke like a man going to his execution by firing squad: If
you wont believe me or do anything else, will you at least let me give you some protection? By
that I meanerrI think that you should move in with me temporarily, he said, wincing even
as he said this. He had gone totally insane, that was all there was to it.
Y-You want me tomove in with you? a bewildered Attis Gallagher said, scratching
at his green head a bit.
Blake shuddered. Not really, he said glumly. But if someone really is out to get you,
they might try again. They might know where you live which means you wont be safe in your
own house. I cant follow you around all day, not when I have to work. But if you hole up in my
apartment whoever tried to run you down today wont be able to find you.
Attis looked at him doubtfully. But truly, Detective, I dont believe he began.
I know you dont! Blake barked. Youve made that painfully clear. But would you
humor me a bit here? I should just let you go home like the little idiot you are and get killed, but
I just cant.
Oh, Attis said, understanding written on his pointed face. I see. Its because youre a
policeman, isnt it Detective Marsh? You worry too much, he said, giving Blake a rather
condescending but very sweet smile. Okay, if thats the only way that I can help you not to
worry so much, Ill go home with you, he said.
Blake wanted to pull his hair out. What was he getting himself into here? He really had
finally gone insane. He gritted his teeth. Come on, then, he told Attis. He got to his feet as the
psychic scrambled to his.
But what about my car? Attis said doubtfully.

You can drive it home and park it in front of your house. That way whoevers trying to
do you in will think that youre at home. Ill take you to my place in my car, Blake replied.
The psychic still looked doubtful, but he went and picked up his scattered groceries then
got into his Beetle. Blake started his Mustang and followed Attis out of the parking lot, rubbing
at his forehead to quell yet another headache. He still couldnt quite believe that he was going to
let Attis Gallagher stay in his apartment. If he wasnt crazy now, he would be in a short time
having to share his place with that idiotic faux psychic. But if hed just let the little moron go,
anything that happened to Attis would be on his head. He was pretty sure that he wouldnt be
able to live with the guilt if someone offed the psychic just because Blake was mad about him
being stubborn. Much as he didnt like the green-haired terror, that didnt mean he wanted Attis
dead. So hed do his best to keep the major annoyance alive, even if he completely lost his mind
in the process.

5
Attiss house turned out to be as wild as his clothes and car. It was a two story A-frame,
which had probably started out life being perfectly normal. Now it was painted in colorful swirls,
while everything from wind chimes to long strings of crystals hung from the eaves. Weird
statues decorated the rather overgrown front lawn, and long swathes of cloth had been draped
over the front porch (who knew why). Attis jumped out of his Beetle and waited for Blake to
pull up and emerge from his own car. Look, Detective, I cant come and stay with you, the
psychic said earnestly.
Why not? Blake growled.
Because of Bobo and Bunny, of course, Attis replied, as though this somehow made
sense.
Blake breathed heavily through his nose, Are you going to tell me what that means? he
asked tightly.
Sure! Bobo and Bunny are my babies! Attis cried. I cant leave, because then I
wouldnt be able to take care of them!
What the fuck are you talking about? the detective asked, rubbing at his forehead again.

Attis darted away into the house, making Blake curse and start to follow him. Damn it!
But before he could reach the front porch, the green-haired terror came running back out with
two bundles clutched in his skinny arms. These are Bobo and Bunny! he cried, holding two
creatures out for Blake to see.
The detective gaped at the sight of two very small rabbits staring at him out of two sets of
black button eyes. One was black-and-white spotted, while the other one was a soft caramelcolor. Their ears twitched as Attis giggled at the expression on his face. Theyre dwarf
bunnies, he said.
Blake wanted to groan. Fuck! Like it wasnt bad enough that he had to put up with Attis
for who knew how long! But something told him that the stubborn creature would never be
persuaded to leave his babies here alone. Cant you put them in a cage or something? he
demanded. You can bring them with you.
Attis brightened up and beamed at him. Oh, youll let me bring my babies? Thats really
nice of you, Detective! he cried happily.
I know it is, Blake replied dryly. Now pack someummmclothes, he said
doubtfully, looking Attiss outfit over, And put those things in a cage. Now, he added stonily.
Attis nodded. Ill be back in a minute, he called, darting back into the house again with
the two rabbits still cradled in his arms.
Blake leaned back against his car while he waited, feeling as though hed wandered into
an episode of the Twilight Zone somehow. How could his day off have come to this? All hed
wanted to do was to go to a club tonight and get laid if possible. Instead hed have to spend the
evening with Attis Gallagher. He was either cursed, or the Devil Himself was out to get him
personally.
Wow, what a cool car! Attis cried, practically bouncing in the bucket passengers seat.
Yes, it is. And Id really like it to keep it that way, so could you not jump on the leather
seat like that? Blake replied sharply.
The psychic subsided into the seat with a blissful look on his pointed face. Its comfy,
he said, making the detective snort as he started the engine.
Right, he said dryly as he pulled out into the street.
Attis turned to look at the tiny back seat, to make sure that the bunny cage with his
precious babies in it was secure. The cage had been joined by his suitcase, which was a large

satchel-like bag covered in beads and fringe. Blake had winced on seeing this article slung over
Attiss shoulder when the psychic had emerged back out of his crazy looking house with the
bunnies secured in a large wire cage. Hed also been carrying a large bag of rabbit supplies,
everything from food pellets to litter for the cage. Blake wished that he had some ibuprofen in
his car for his growing headache. Whatever had possessed him to invite this man to live with
him? He should just let the little idiot be killed. Then Attis Gallagher would be out of his life
forever.
Unfortunately, Blake was a cop through and through. Their motto wasnt to protect and
serve for nothing. He couldnt walk way and let the psychic be done in, no matter how much he
would have liked to. So he could only grin and bear it, although if there was a grin on his face
right now it was a deaths head grimace. He growled aloud when Attis sat back in his seat then
reached out to begin flipping through the channels on Blakes car radio. Stop that! he barked.
I have those set where I want them.
Attis jumped, and then looked a little hurt. Geez, Detective, you dont have to yell, he
chided Blake.
And of course he felt bad. This was what Attis Gallagher did to you, Blake thought as he
spoke through gritted teeth. He made you feel bad effortlessly about being mean to him, even
though even homicide was justifiable where he was concerned. Im sorry, he choked out. But
I have the radio set to all of the stations that I like. If you mess with them itll take me forever to
get them back to where I want them.
All right, Attis said, mollified. Hey, how fast can this car go? he asked innocently,
glancing around the interior of the Mustang.
Very fast, Blake replied. And no, I will not demonstrate for you, he added, seeing the
next question on the psychics lips.
Attis looked disappointed. He began to fidget in his seat. Just like a little kid, Blake
thought. Did this guy ever stay still for even a minute? Snapping at him to sit still would
probably only hurt his feelings again. He decided to speak rather than driving the car into a light
pole as a way to assuage his frustrations. So just say that I was right, and someone was trying to
kill you, he began with a sideways glance at Attis.
But I TOLD you, Detective the psychic protested.

Yeah, I know, Blake said, holding up a hand. Lets not get into that again. But just
say, hypothetically, that someone was actually out to get you. So you know anyone who wants
to do that? he said, adding, Besides me in his own head.
Attis scratched at his hair under that awful knit cap. Really, I dont, he remarked
earnestly.
No former clients who have a grudge against you or something? Blake said casually.
No, not that I know of. It just seems too strange to think that anyone would want to kill
me, Attis said, sounding bewildered.
Well, this person could be crazy, Blake pointed out as he turned a corner. Crazy
people dont need a good reason for doing something. Maybe you pissed off a nut job.
Do you really think so? Attis said doubtfully. You truly think that somebody is trying
to kill me? he sounded suddenly scared and forlorn, and a glance at his face showed that his
lower lip was trembling a little. In Attiss happy little world, no one would ever want to do harm
to anyone else. To be faced with sudden cold reality was obviously throwing him for a loop.
Oh God, hes gonna cry, Blake thought in horror. He didnt think that he could stand
that. Hed never been good with tears. It was one of the reasons that he liked being a gay man
the kind of guys who attracted him weren't the crying type.
Listen, dont worry about it, he said quickly. Ill protect you, okay? And well catch
this guy.
You promise? Attis asked in a small voice.
Yeah, Blake replied firmly.
Thank you, Detective. The psychic said, gratitude in his rather high voice. When the
cop glanced at him, he was rather disturbed to see that Attis was looking at him with a
worshipful expression on his pointed face. Oh, Lord, thats all he needed! For Attis Gallagher to
start thinking that Blake was some kind of knight in shining armor out to rescue him from the
killer dragon! He SO did not need a fan club especially when the only member happened to be
the hyper creature currently sitting in his passenger seat. He cleared his throat hurriedly. Its no
problem. Im just doing my job, he pointed out. I am a cop, after all.
Yes, you and Lewis do a good job catching bad guys, Attis agreed.
Blake shrugged uncomfortably. We do pretty well, given the fact that we have to work
within the law and criminals dont, he said.

It always thrills me to work with you guys to help catch criminals, Attis said blissfully.
Blake grimaced. Uh huh, was all he said in reply.
The psychic didnt catch on to his sarcasm, as usual. Its great to know that my visions
are being put to practical use. I never imagined that they would when I first started having them.
Blake shot him a sideways look. Attis was fiddling with the fringe on his sleeve, an intent
expression on his pointed face. So you havent always had visions? he heard himself asking,
then wondered why in hell he was actually doing so. Since when did he care about anything
pertaining to Attis Gallagher?
Oh, no, Attis replied. The visions started when I was sixteen. I was in a car accident
that year; my brother was taking me to track practice and it was snowing. His car hit a patch of
ice, and we skidded off the road and into a pond. I dont remember much about it; I hit my head
on the dashboard. My brother had to pull me out of the car before I froze in the icy water. I had
a concussion and a broken wrist, but that was it. Then I started to have headaches and these
weird little black-out spells. My parents kept taking me to the doctor because they were worried
about me having brain damage or something
You mean that you dont? Was on the tip of Blakes tongue, but he didnt voice this
sardonic thought.
But they could never find anything wrong with me. I had a ton of tests, but still nothing.
Then I woke up one night covered in sweat. Id had a dream about a man I didnt know stepping
into the street and being killed by a speeding car. Then, a few days later, I saw an article in the
paper about a man whod been killed by a hit-and-run driver and it was him. The picture of the
man in the paper was the same one I saw in my dream. I cried buckets. Attis confessed soberly
to the detective. Because I hadnt been able to use that dream to save or warn him. It took me a
long time to accept the fact that I cant often do much about what I See. Thats why Im so
happy to be able to work with the police and capture criminals. A practical use for my gift is
wonderful
Blake felt a shaft of guilt lance through him. He still didnt believe for one moment that
Attis Gallagher was a real psychic (because there was no such thing as real psychics, damn it!),
but he felt bad about the fact that all of those visions that Attis had happily told them about
hadnt been used to capture criminals at all. All those carefully written down bits of information
had merely decorated the wastebasket near he and Lewiss shared desk at the station. He

decided to never tell Attis that. Talk about histrionics and waterworks! Besides, that would be
cruel. Let the little beggar think that he was doing something useful with his phony gift. It
wasnt hurting anyone (except for him, since Lewis liked the little terror), and it kept Attis out of
harm. Well, most of the time anyway. Not now, since someone was trying to bump him off.
Why? And how would he go about figuring out who was out to get Attis Gallagher?
Do you have any clients right now? he asked abruptly.
The psychic jumped a little, clearly having been lost in thought. Oh, a few, he said.
Ill need their names and addresses, the detective replied.
Why? Oh, you dont think that one of THEM is trying to kill me, do you?! Attis cried,
looking distressed once more.
I dont know. I just need to talk to them, Blake hedged.
Well, it CANT be Ms. Sanderby, shes a really nice old lady, Attis reassured him
earnestly.
Ms. Sanderby? Who is she, and why is she seeing a...errpsychic?
Gladys Sanderby. Her house is haunted, and she wanted me to contact the ghost. But the
thing is, I dont know if her house is haunted at all Attis said doubtfully.
What do you mean?
I dont knowI just tried to get some energy readings at her house, and I couldnt find
any patches of negative energy at all. Which is strange when a house is as haunted as hers is
supposed to be. I just couldnt understand it, Attis remarked.
Huh, Blake said, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. This sounded suspicious to him.
Oh, Detective, I need to go back to her house to try some other tests tomorrow, Attis
said swiftly. Could you take me there?
Normally he would have vetoed this unconditionally, but this time Blake replied: Yeah,
Ill take you there tomorrow. He wanted a look around this Ms. Sanderbys house, and hed
keep on Attiss heels tomorrow whether he liked it or not. Nobody would be able to do anything
to the psychic with him around. No matter that it would be annoying to have to follow Attis
Gallagher around like a faithful dog; hed signed up as the psychics bodyguard will he or nil he.
Oh, great! Youll like Ms. Sanderby, Detective! Shes really nice! Attis piped up
merrily.
Blake sighed. You might as well call me Blake, he said in resignation.

Blake, Attis said. Okay. But you have to call me Attis, he replied.
Do I have to? Blake thought rather sullenly. Attis was just the stupidest name!
Fortunately for any reply he would have made, his apartment building came up on then left. He
turned into the parking lot, heading for his parking spot in the covered garage.
I only have one bedroom, he began as he parked his Mustang and turned to look at
Attis. So youll have to sleep on the couch.
Oh, thats all right. I dont mind, Attis said. Thank you for having me over,
DetBlake. Youre a really nice person too, he said brightly as he got out of the car.
Blake rolled his eyes. Attis had no idea just how not nice he actually was. He got out of
his side, seeing Attis pulling the cage out of the back seat. He was trying to balance it along with
his hideous bag. Blake sighed and went around to take the cage of bunnies from him. Youll
drop everything this way, he said in exasperation. I dont think that these things would
appreciate that, he nodded at the cage in his hands.
Attis beamed up at him. Thanks! Bobo, Bunny, Blakes gonna take you inside, okay?
he said to the rabbits, who twitched their ears at him indifferently.
Blake began to walk toward his building, wrinkling his nose at the rather pungent smell
of the bunnies inside their cage. Attis followed him with his satchel and the bags of rabbit
supplies over his shoulders. Blake came to his apartment, grateful that it was on the first floor.
He set down the cage gingerly to fish out his key. He opened his door and picked the cage back
up, toting it inside and setting it on the tiny dining room table near the kitchen. The bunnies
jumped a bit when he set the cage down, their tails twitching now as well. Attis arrived to fuss
over them. The detective did some more eye rolling behind the psychics back when he heard
Attis cooing at those things like they were more than ambulatory poop machines. Ill go and get
you a blanket and a pillow, he told Attis abruptly.
Okay. The psychic replied, not looking up from his pets. Blake shrugged and went to
get an extra blanket and pillow from the tiny linen closet down the narrow hallway leading to his
bedroom and bathroom.

He came back out to find Attis sitting on the couch that was going to be his bed (truth be
told, he was bouncing on that as well). He stopped with a rather guilty expression on his face

when he saw Blake emerge from the hallway. He looked like a little boy with his hand caught in
the cookie jar, and Blake found his mouth twitching. He almost laughed, but fought it back. He
tossed the blanket and pillow to Attis. There. You could put your stuff in that cupboard over
there, I guess, he added, nodding toward a built in wall cupboard nearby. I need to go out and
start bringing in my groceries, Blake went on as he started for the front door.
Attis leapt to his feet. Let me help you, Blake! he cried.
Blake knew better than to try to dissuade him. So they toted the bags inside from the
trunk, and he began to put the stuff away in the fridge and cupboards. Attis helped here too, but
Blake noticed a look of distaste on his pointed face as he looked at the food. Whats wrong? he
demanded.
Do you really eat all of this stuff, Blake? the psychic said, a look of reproach on his
face.
Huh? What are you talking about? Blake demanded.
This is horrible! Attis cried, waving at the food. Theres very little nutritional value in
any of this! You should eat fresh foods and lots of vegetables!
Look, I dont cook. And even if I did, I dont have time to make three course meals for
myself, Blake snapped.
Attis set his hands on his slim hips. Well, while Im living with you ILL cook for you,
he said in determination. You can take me to the store tomorrow to buy some fresh
ingredients.
Blake gaped at him. Are you shitting me! he yelped.
Attiss mouth set in a stubborn line. SOMEONE should take proper care of you, Blake,
even if you wont, he replied.
Blake wanted to slap himself on his forehead once again. Something told him that taking
in this little pest was going to be the worst mistake he had ever made in his entire life.

6
An irritated Blake finally decided to order in take-out food, rather than fight with his
guest about his eating habits anymore. He reluctantly consulted with Attis, and they decided to
get Chinese food. But the psychic insisted that they call a place that used no MSG and one that

also served vegetarian dishes. Blake rolled his eyes but complied, since he was hungry enough
not to want to fight with Attis over this. The psychic used his phone book to find the number of a
restaurant that he himself ordered Chinese take-out from often. Youll love the food! he cried
to the detective, who shrugged and ordered sweet and sour chicken and a beef and broccoli dish.
Attis looked slightly disapproving over his ordering meat dishes, but said nothing. Which
was good, since Blake was fully prepared to whack him upside his green head if the psychic
bitched at him over his food choices again. Attis got a vegetable stir fry with a side order of
plain rice for himself. After he hung up the phone, Blake eyes his unwanted guest. Do you
mind if I watch TV? he asked sardonically.
Attis blinked up at him. No, of course not, he replied earnestly. Ill just take care of
Bobo and Bunny while you do. He pattered away to attend to his precious furry babies, leaving
Blake shaking his head in the psychics wake.
Blake threw himself down on his couch and picked up his remote control. He turned on
the TV and began to flip idly through the channels, looking for something to watch. He heard
Attis talking to his pet bunnies, the high voice sunny. He certainly didnt sound like a man in
fear for his life, Blake thought to himself dryly. Why was he not surprised? Attis Gallagher
couldnt hold a serious thought in that fluffy head of his for very long without it leaking out of
his ears. He listened to what the other man was saying, much against his will. It was just really
hard to ignore the psychics voice no matter how much he would have liked to.
So were going to be living here with Blake for awhile, guys, the psychic chirped.
Hes a really nice guy, so this should be fun. We can hang around with him. Youll like that,
right?
He began to hum, while Blake shook his head again in disbelief. What was with this
guy? Attis truly seemed to think that he was a nice guy. Weird. Hadnt he made his dislike
nay, sometimes all out hate of Attis Gallagher show through every time he was around the little
pipsqueak? Just how delusional could one person be? Or how blind? He was baffled and
annoyed by Attis Gallagher once again. He just didnt understand what thought processes took
place inside of that green head. Clearly they werent the normal ones that other people had going
on inside their skulls.
Attis was changing the water in the bottle inside the rabbits cage now. He was also
singing You are my Sunshine half under his breath as he worked. Blake turned up the sound

on the TV and forced himself to stare at the screen lest he be tempted to do something awful to
his new guest. How the hell was he supposed to put up with the little irritant for any length of
time? He couldnt even tolerate Attis normally. Having him living in his apartment was a recipe
for disaster for Blake. He gritted his teeth together rather than snap at Attis about his singing.
The psychic finally finished making his pets comfortable and came over to plop on the
couch near Blake. The detective chose to try to ignore him as the smaller man picked up his
fringed bag and began to rummage through it. He finally found what he was looking for with a
small cry of triumph, hauling out a length of what looked like a knitted afghan. When his slim
hands began to make a strange motion, Blake looked away from the TV at last. He glanced over
at the psychic, and to his surprise he saw that the other man was using knitting needles on some
woolen balls of yarn.
Blakes jaw dropped. Attis was actually knitting! The smaller man was intent on what he
was doing, his slim fingers flashing as he raveled the yarn together into a colorful afghan.
Stunned silence, then the detective yelped: What the hell are you doing?!
Attis glanced up, seeing the incredulous expression on Blakes face. He cocked his head
like a curious bird. Hmm? Im just working on a lap blanket for my favorite chair, he said,
holding up the half finished work. Isnt it neat? Ill be done soon, he added happily.
You knit, Blake said flatly.
Yeah. I learned how to do it from a book, Attis explained.
You are a GUY, Blake responded harshly. "Guys do not knit!
Attis blinked. They dont? he asked, looking puzzled. Why not?
Blakes mouth worked. Because they dont, he replied when he couldnt think of a
reason. Knitting is something that women do.
Attis cocked his head again. Who says? he challenged Blake. Ive heard that German
men knit. So why cant I if I want to? I dont see anything wrong with it, he continued with a
mutinous set to his pink mouth.
Blake wanted to throw his hands in the air. Lord, are you a man at all? You sure dont
act like one, he muttered as he glared at Attis. Hell, Im gay and IM not even close to being
as girly as you are!
Attis looked hurt. I dont think that theres anything wrong with me, he shot back.
And calling me girly is an insult to women too. After all, what are you saying but that what

women do and are is bad? Not as good as being a man? Youre pretty small-minded, Detective,
he went on, folding his arms over his chest. Especially for a gay man.
Blake didnt know quite what to say to this. He didnt miss the fact that Attis wasnt
using his first name anymore. Hed never seen the psychic angry before, let alone with him.
Oddly enough, it disturbed him that hed upset Attis this much. He squirmed on the couch
uncomfortably before saying abruptly: Look, Im sorry. Ive just never seen a man knit before.
It threw me off, thats all.
Attis turned his head back to study Blakes face for a moment. Then he nodded,
unfolding his arms again. All right, Blake. I forgive you. He said magnanimously. He picked
up his knitting again and went at it vigorously, while Blake gave him a perplexed look. Then the
detective shook his head and went back to watching television. It seemed safer all around that
way.

Their food finally arrived, and Attis removed the cage from the table so that they could
eat. He insisted that Blake get out plates and cups instead of them eating out of the paper
cartons. The detective wanted to growl at him, but in the end he went and got two plates down
out of the cupboard. Attis put the food on the plates, and they sat down on either side of the
table to eat. Attis made loud sounds of pleasure and appreciation as he ate. Blake stoically ate his
own food, concentrating on the flavors. But then he happened to look up at his unwanted guest,
and for some reason found his eyes riveted on the sight of Attis putting food into his mouth with
a pair of chopsticks. A heap of rice went into that pink mouth; the sticks sliding into that sweetlooking orifice just like something else would
Blake came back to himself with a start. What the fuck was he doing?! And thinking, for
that matter?! He was NOT thinking about the fact that Attis Gallaghers mouth looked sweet, or
kind ofwell, sexyNo, he had not just thought that. He was going crazy already from having
this guy living with him. That was the only explanation for his reaction. That, and the fact that he
hadnt gotten laid for far too longHe forced himself to look down at his own food, refusing to
glance up at the psychic anymore. Crazy thoughts like that would be banished to the darkest
corners of his brain and never looked at again.

You know, Blake, Attis remarked, making him look up after all. But fortunately for
him, the psychic was done eating. Where had the little creature packed it all away? Blake
wondered as he looked at Attis across the table.
What? he asked.
I was kinda surprised when you said that you were gay. I didnt know that before you
just dont seem very gay to me, Attis replied.
That bother you? Blake grunted, eyeing him.
Attis shook his head quickly. Of course not! Ive got plenty of gay friends. Its no big
deal! He chirped, smiling at Blake.
Huh. Then youre not gay, errAttis? he said, his face twisting in disgust at having to
use that ridiculous name.
Huh? No, Im not, Attis replied. I like girls.
Isee, Blake replied slowly. Do they like you? he added dryly in his own head,
trying to imagine the type of woman whod be attracted to someone like Attis Gallagher.
Dont worry, Blake, Attis piped up just then. I know that you wont try to hit on me
just because youre gay and Im another guy. Im not worried, he said earnestly.
Thats good, because itll be a cold day in hell before I hit on you, Blake thought to
himself in disgust. I wasnt worried, he replied aloud.
Great. Ill just clean up, the psychic said, jumping to his feet to collect the dirty plates
and carry them into the kitchen to rinse them in the sink. Blake sat at the table and listened to
him clinking around in there. He was thinking that he could surprise the hell out of Lewis when
he told his partner that Attis Gallagher was straight. Who woulda thunk it? The little beggar
was WAY gayer than Blake himself was. It just went to show youwell, something anyway. He
didnt know quite what exactly.
Blake returned to the couch to watch some more TV while Attis cleared the table and put
the bunny cage back on top of it. Then the psychic came back to sit down beside him and take up
that infernal knitting once more. Blake tried his best to ignore Attis, although he wasnt entirely
successful. Finally Attis spoke up again: Blake? Could I use your bathroom? I want to take a
shower before bed.
Sure. Its down the hall. The doors open, just go in, he replied shortly.

Thank you. Ill be right back, he leapt to his feet, grabbed his ugly fringed bag, and
pattered away down the hallway toward the bathroom.
Blake stirred on the couch, rubbing at his forehead. To think that this was only his first
night with Attis Gallagher living in his apartment. How much worse would it get as the days
past? And how long would he have to live with the little irritant before he could discover who
was trying to kill Attis? He didnt even want to think about it. It couldnt help but be hellish. He
glanced in irritation at the abandoned knitting beside him on the couch. Knitting. A guy who
knitted. Shit. Could he GET any more ridiculous if he really worked at it? Geez.

He was just coming out of the kitchen with a beer in his hand when Attis came padding
back down the hallway. He was dressed in his night clothes which werent colorful pajamas as
Blake had expected. Instead the psychic wore a slightly too-long shirt and nothing else. The shirt
had a sports logo on it, a further surprise. Blake wouldnt have pegged the psychic as someone
who liked sports at all. His long bare legs stuck out from under the hem, the skin smooth and
pale over what was a surprisingly defined set of lean muscles. His feet were small, the toes pink
and rather cute. He smiled at Blake with his damp green hair plastered to his head. Im ready for
bed, he chirped.
Blake had the oddest sensation in the pit of his stomach when the psychic said this.
Yeah, great, he said sardonically, choosing to ignore that feeling completely. He eyed the shirt.
I wouldnt have put you down as a baseball fan, he noted.
Attis blinked, and then looked down at his nightshirt. Oh, Im not, he replied easily. I
just bought the shirt because I like comfortable loose nightshirts, and it had a picture of a bird on
it. None of the other shirts in the regular mens department had any pictures on them that I liked
the look of. Thats all.
Blakes lips twitched slightly in spite of himself. I see, he remarked dryly. I should
have known that you wouldnt do anything as ordinary as follow a sports team.
Attis shrugged. I dont dislike sports he began doubtfully.
Im sure. I get the picture, Blake took a swig of his beer, and then noticed that the
psychic was gazing at the can in a disapproving way.
Oh, Christ, he thought with a groan. Here we go again.

Listen, he began aloud before Attis could say anything, Im not giving up drinking
beer just because you dont like it. You can buy more food if thats what floats your boat, but
dont get on my case about my beer. You got that? he continued with a warning glare at the
smaller man.
Attis nodded, taking a deep breath. I understand, Blake. Everyone should be allowed at
least one indulgence. Never mind that beer makes you fat and rots your teeth because its almost
pure sugar. Im sure you wont mind that at all, having delivered this deadly blow, he smiled
brightly and continued: Im going to lie down if you dont mind. Im really tired. Goodnight,
Blake. He pattered off to the couch and curled up under the blanket that Blake had given him
earlier, looking like a green-haired kitten.
The detective cursed in his own head as he looked down at the beer he was holding.
Damn that little bastard! He raged furiously. He has to take the fun out of everything! He
stormed off into the kitchen to pour the rest of the can down the sink, and then took himself off
to the bathroom to take his own shower. He needed hot water pouring down on his head to relax
his too-tense muscles a bit.
Blake leaned back again the tile wall of his shower and closed his eyes. This is what he
had to put up with instead of getting laid tonight. Attis Gallagher, worlds largest annoyance. He
ran a hand down his abdomen, idly taking his own cock in hand. At least he could jack off and
relieve his tensions a bit. He pulled at the limp flesh, trying to think of the sexiest things he
could to get himself erect. That porn film hed downloaded off the internet last weekthe guys
in it were really hot. Ah, that helped a bit. He remembered the way the lead male had moaned as
hed held his own thighs up and spread wide so that he could take the big cock of a bearded guy
who was fucking him relentlessly. Yeah, that was it. He was almost completely hard now.
He stroked himself slowly, enjoying the feel of his own hand. Blake replayed the scenes
from the porno in his head. He was getting close, the muscles in his abdomen tightening
traitorously. Yes, that felt good! His hand moved faster as his balls began to draw up tight
against his body
At the last moment, just before he was inevitably pitched into orgasm, something
extremely disturbing happened to Blake Marsh. The image in his head of the porn star being
rammed by the big bearded guy disappeared suddenly, and instead he saw a picture of Attis
standing in the living room wearing nothing but that too-large shirt. He saw those leanly

muscular smooth legs protruding out from under the shirt, the ankles delicate and the tiny feet
just begging to be kissed and caressed. He groaned in desperate disbelief as this image threw him
immediately into a gut-wrenching, spasming volcano of an orgasm, his cock spewing out his
load all over the tile floor in front of him as he jerked with the force of his climax. Then he was
spent, standing there in total shock with his mouth hanging open. Just what, he wondered in total,
utter disbelief, the fuck had THAT been?

7
Blake was awoken out of a broken sleep by a strange sound. His eyes flickered open, and
he lifted his head off of his pillow a bit to listen. As he did so, another low sound echoed from
out in the living room. It was like a miserable whimper, and was followed by a sob. Blake
groaned, wanting to bury his head in his pillow and forget hed ever heard those sounds. But he
just couldnt. He dragged his ass out of bed, running a hand through his hair. The little terror
wouldnt even let him sleep! And after that incident in the shower earlier, he was feeling even
less charitable toward Attis Gallagher than he had before. He was upset and angry that hed
come while thinking of the phony psychic curled up on his couch.
He walked out into the hallway as another whimpering cry rang out. They were wordless
and full of grief, those sounds. They made the muscles tighten in his belly. Blake didnt like
those sounds at all. Was Attis having a nightmare? It must be a doozy. Damn it, why did he have
to be the one to comfort his unwanted houseguest?
He sighed. Because there was no one else, of course. Blake entered the living room,
seeing the small figure twisting and turning on the couch. Attis was thrashing, sweat beading his
brow as his body jerked. He cried out, his back arching. Blake walked over to the couch, sitting
gingerly down on the side and reaching out to lightly touch Attiss arm. Hey, wake up, he said.
There was no response except for more sobbing, this time with tears. Blake felt the knot
in his belly grow larger. He couldnt take much more of this. He shook the arm briskly. Wake
up! he roared, and Attiss eyes flew open. They were blank and uncomprehending for a
moment. You were having a nightmare, Blake told him in as soothing a voice as he could
possibly muster. So I woke you up. You okay?
Attis sniffled for a moment, and then his eyes began to register. Blake? he whispered.

Yeah, he replied.
Oh. Im sorry if I woke you, the psychic said, sitting up slowly. His hand ran over his
wild mane of green hair distractedly.
Thats okay, Blake lied. So you had a nightmare?
Not exactly, Attis replied. I had a vision. Sometimes they can seem like nightmares,
though.
Blake wanted to growl. A vision! What a bunch of crap! The guy has a nightmare and
tries to say that its visions! He sighed in a long suffering way. A vision, he repeated aloud.
About what? Aliens coming to take over the Earth?
As usual his sarcasm flew right over that green head. No. I saw something terrible
but I think it must have been a past Seeing, not one thats going to happen in the future.
How can you tell that? Blake found himself asking, and then wanted to hit himself
upside the head. Idiot! He yelled at himself as Attis looked up at him.
Then the psychic said something that made Blake Marshs world fall to pieces around
him in one blow. Because you were in it, Attis replied promptly. A younger you. When you
were still wearing a uniform. You looked good in a uniform, Blake. And his lower lip
trembled and his eyes filled with tears, Im so sorry about Danny, he said solemnly.
Blake reared back, his breath leaving him in something like a gasp. How?! What?!
What the fuck do you know about Danny?! he rasped, his hand curling into a fist at his side.
Attis knuckled childishly at his eyes. I saw what happened in that building, he said
softly, sadly. You went in there to arrest someone, and a man a big man with a gun came out
of an apartment and shot your partner. He died, didnt he? I Saw you holding him in your arms,
and there was so much bloodIm so sorry, he repeated woefully.
Blake just sat there, frozen, his brain unable to process the information that Attis
Gallagher knew what had happened to his first partner. Because that meantit meant that the
green-haired little troll currently crying on his couch was a real psychic. There was no way in
hell that Attis could have known about that incident otherwise, since it had happened in Chicago
hundreds of miles away from here. And no police department was going to share information
like that with a civilian. Even Lewis didnt know the details, since Blake didnt like to talk about
it. But he couldnt be! Part of his mind shrilled. Theres no way! But what other explanation
was there? Fuck, he just couldnt believe it.

Blake? a slim hand touched his arm. You okay?

He blinked, coming back to himself a bit. I dontyou really are a psychic, he said in
bewilderment.
Attis cocked his head to the side. Of course I am. Why are you so surprised? he asked
in puzzlement.
Blake sighed. Never mind. Why do you think you had a dream about me?
The psychic sighed a little, rubbing at his face wearily. Maybe because Im staying with
you? The vibes in your apartment probably caused me to have the vision. Im sure you think a lot
about what happened, he added with a compassionate glance at Blake. And those thoughts
will have saturated the walls and the furniture. I just picked up on them because my mind was
open while I was sleeping.
Huh, Blake remarked, not quite believing this ridiculous explanation. But once again,
what other one was there? Then he glanced at Attis, seeing how drawn and tired the little pest
looked. Maybe these visions took something out of him? Blake frowned. Ill get you something
to drink, he said, getting to his feet abruptly.
Oh yes, Id love some water, Attis piped up. If you dont mind.
The cop departed for his kitchen, shaking his head over getting Attis a drink of water like
he was a five-year old. Of course, mentally he pretty much washe got a glass from the
cupboard and filled it from the tap on the fridge. He yawned as he did so, scrubbing at his face
with his free hand. This night just kept getting weirder and weirder. He really could not believe
that Attis Gallagher was a real psychic. He would have found it more likely that the Keebler
elves were real. Although the psychic could be a resident of the hollow tree, now that he thought
about it. Except that the health conscious little terror probably didnt make cookies or any other
kinds of sweets.
He carried the glass out into the living room, finding Attis sitting up with his back
propped against the couch and his bare legs dangling out from under his blanket. He smiled at
Blake as the detective took the glass of water over and handed it to him. Thank you, Blake, he
said happily, taking the water and drinking most of it in one gulp.
Blake watched this in disbelief, wondering once again if the psychic had a hollow leg or
something. But he also found himself watching the other man swallow, the way the white throat
tilted back a little. Damn it! He felt a stirring again where there definitely should not be one.

What in Gods name was happening to him? He was NOT attracted to Attis Gallagher. Hed
rather have sex with a porcupine. If it was just a case of his not having been laid for a while,
hed have to rectify that as soon as was humanly possible. Although how he was going to bring a
guy back to his apartment while Attis was living here
He frowned over this thought as Attis finished the glass. Can you go back to sleep?
Blake asked.
I think so. Im used to this by now, Attis sighed as he gave the glass back to Blake. I
have one of these every few nights.
Blake couldnt even imagine that. These visions seemed to take a lot out of Attis. What
are they about? These visions? again he wondered why he was bothering to have a conversation
with his little personal annoyance.
Umm. Sometimes theyre about things that are going to happen, and sometimes theyre
past visions like the one I had just now. Once in awhile Ill have one that makes no real sense,
and those are the worst. Theyre so confusing that I feel like Im in a fog the next day. Once in
awhile I get a headache from one. But Im used to those now.
This matter-of-fact statement made Blake frown a little. Attis spoke so casually about
seeing disturbing things that made him cry and gave him headaches. How could he be so happy
and joyful about everything when he had to live with this all the time? Attis yawned then,
looking like an overlarge green-haired kitten. He stretched. I guess Ill go back to sleep. Thanks
again for waking me up and the water, Blake, he chirped, before he lay back down and
promptly went to sleep again. Soon soft little snores drifted through the room.
Blake stood there and looked down at his slumbering guest. Attiss face was peaceful,
his pink mouth relaxed. Tear tracks still streaked his pale cheeks, though. He found that he was
still disturbed by the sight of them. To his utter shock, he leaned over and pulled the blanket up
and over Attiss slim body. Blake was astonished at himself. What the fuck was wrong with him?
He straightened up and turned to stride out of the living room, not wanting to be there even one
second longer. Attis Gallagher was driving him briskly into insanity, that was the only
explanation. And this form of craziness was not one that he was enjoying at all.

Fortunately Attis didnt have any more visions that night, and Blake awoke late the next
morning. He lay there in bed grateful that it was his second day off today. But then he cursed and
jumped out of bed at the thought of the ravages that a certain green-haired psychic was probably
causing to his apartment right now. He threw on a shirt and pulled on a pair of sweat pants,
moving swiftly down the hallway and out into the living room. But to his surprise, not only was
the place neat and undisturbed, and the blanket folded on the edge of the couch; he didnt see any
signs of Attis at all. Where had the little beggar gone? Blake wondered as he stood looking
around.
Hey! Attis! he roared after a moment, but there was no reply. The bunnies in the cage
on his table stared at him with those black button eyes, their ears flat against their heads. Clearly
they didnt like him being loud. Tough, he told them, striding into the kitchen to see if Attis
was there.
Still nothing. Uneasy now, Blake went down to check in the bathroom. But the door was
open and the room was empty. He was coming to a conclusion he didnt like at all Attis had
left his apartment. Alone. Blake wanted to scream. Here he was trying to protect the little
bastard, and Attis had strolled away without any protection! When he found that green-haired
troll, he was going to kill Attis Gallagher himself! He turned to storm down to his bedroom and
get dressed so that he could go out looking for his charge, but before he could do so his front
door opened. Attis came tripping in merrily, grocery bags hung on his skinny arms. He was
singing to himself again, looking relaxed and happy.
Blake soon killed that good mood. He stomped up to Attis, putting his hands on his hips
as he glared down at the smaller man. Where the fuck did you go?! he yelled furiously.
Attis blinked, coming to a halt. I went to the store, he said, holding up the bags. I took
a cab home and got my car, he added cheerfully.
I can see that! Blake roared. I dont fucking care if you went to the moon! You will
not WILL NOT go anywhere without me again until I can catch whoever is trying to kill
you!! Do you understand me?!
Attis actually cowered a little from his wrath. I...just wanted to buy some more food so
that I could make us breakfast, he said in a small voice. His big eyes were wide, and he looked
scared.

Blake tried to rein in his temper. He didnt want to make the little shit start crying again.
He just couldnt handle that. I know that, he said in as calm a voice as he could manage. But
dont you realize that someone might have tried again if they saw you alone? Im trying to
protect you, Attis. I cant do that if you keep running out by yourself.
Oh, the psychic straightened up. I understand. Youre so nice, trying to protect me like
this. I promise that I wont go anywhere without you again, Blake, he added firmly.
Thank you, the cop said with only a trace of sarcasm in his voice. Well, maybe more
than a trace. Well, no harm no foul. Im going to go and get dressed.
And Im going to make us a nice breakfast, Attis replied, holding up the grocery bags
again. Do you like tofu?
Blake came to a halt, the muscles in his back knotting as he said in a very patient tone of
voice: No. No, I do not like tofu. If you put tofu in my food, I will throw both it and you out the
door. You got that?
Okay, Attis said behind him. No tofu. Got it, Blake.
The cop sighed and walked away toward his bedroom, feeling the beginnings of another
headache coming on. Lord, Attis Gallagher was going to be the death of him. He was sure of it.

*****
To his surprise, the breakfast that Attis served him wasnt that bad at all. There was
actually meat included, at least in his breakfast anyway. The beef in the sausages was both lean
and organic, from cows that had been grass fed. Or thats what Attis informed him chattily as he
ate organic scrambled eggs and sausage, with one piece of wheat toast (no butter) and a serving
of fresh fruit and yogurt. Blake merely grunted throughout this dialogue, concentrating on the
food. Attis was eating his own breakfast, talking in between bites. Hed made himself an omelet
out of tofu and fresh vegetables, along with cheese made out of rice or something. Blake had
eyed it in disbelief when hed sat down at the table. Yeesh, the things that Attis ate were as
weird as his clothes and his house.
Finally they were both finished. Attis cleared the table, rinsing the dishes in the sink.
Blake got to his feet. That wasnt bad, he told the psychic grudgingly.
Youre welcome! Attis caroled. I have to go over to Ms. Sanderbys house in a bit,
Blake.

Yeah, Ill drive you there. Be ready in half an hour or so, Blake told him.
I will. I just have to do the dishes, then wash my hands and face, Attis told him. Blake
rolled his eyes a bit, walking away to go and shave. The day had just started, and already he
could tell it was going to be strange and annoying. Much like Attis Gallagher himself.
Isnt this place cool? Attis asked Blake over his shoulder as he knocked on the front
door of Ms. Sanderbys house.
The detective stared up at the house, agreeing silently with the psychics assessment. The
place was very cool indeed. It looked like one of those Victorian houses you saw in some of the
fancier snow globes. It had latticework on the eaves that looked like snowflakes, and lacey
curtains hung at the many windows. There was even a small cupola on the roof with a copper
overlay that had turned green with age. Pretty nice, he grunted aloud.
Yeah! And youll really like Ms. Sanderby. Shes really nice! Attis piped up.
Blake remained skeptical about this, considering the fact that the psychic also thought
that HE was nice. Clearly Attiss powers of judgment werent that great. The door swung open
just then, revealing a round-faced, smiling woman standing there. Hey, Martha! Im back!
Attis caroled.
Oh, hello Attis dear. So nice to see you again. Ms. Sanderby will be very happy to see
you, the woman said.
Martha, Id like you to meet a friend of mine. Detective Blake Marsh, this is Martha
Winger. Shes Ms. Sanderbys housekeeper.
Hello, Detective. How do you do? the woman said politely.
Hello. I just came with Attis today forerrmoral support, Blake said swiftly.
Yes, hes here to help me with my readings. Blake has a very strong energy field of his
own. He can usually find hot spots just by walking around, Attis lied blithely.
The housekeeper blinked. Oh? Thats interesting. Please come in, both of you. Ms.
Sanderby is waiting for you in the sitting room.
Blakes mouth had dropped open when he heard Attis lie to this womans face. He hadnt
thought that the psychic had a single deceptive bone in his entire body. He would have given
good money that Attis didnt even know how to tell a lie. And yet bold as you please, hed
smoothly and easily lied to the housekeeper. The cop realized that he had misjudged Attis, that
the friendly, innocent face and big eyes had misled him. He wondered what else he didnt know

about the psychic, besides the fact that Attis really had visions and that he could lie with skill
when he had to. He followed the other two into the house, a small frown on his face. The
woman led the way across a polished wood floor to a pair of carved doors which stood open.
Attis is here, Ms Sanderby, the housekeeper said. And hes brought a friend today.
Hello, Mr. Gallagher! Im so glad to see you! an elderly voice called from within.
Please come in and sit down, I have a great deal to tell you.
Attis and Blake entered the room, which was full of heavy antique furniture and had a
large Persian rug on the floor. Ms. Sanderby was sitting on a brocade couch, and turned out to be
a tiny old woman with iron grey hair pulled back in a smooth chignon. Her face was heavily
wrinkled, but her light brown eyes were still bright and alert. But there were dark circles under
them, and she looked tired as she greeted Attis. The psychic had hurried over to take one of her
papery hands in his own. Ms. Sanderby. Has anything else happened since I was here last?" he
asked anxiously.
She nodded. Yes. But you should introduce me to your friend first, she added in a
gentle chiding as she glanced at Blake.
Oh! Sorry! Ms. Sanderby, this is Detective Blake Marsh. I brought him today because
he can help me find your ghost. Hes very skilled in his own right, the psychic confided to her
softly.
Is he? Well, I welcome any help I can get, the old lady remarked. She smiled at Blake.
Welcome to my home, Detective Marsh.
Thanks for having me, he replied. Attis tells me you have a ghost problem?
Yes. Such a terrible spirit. It started haunting my house a few months ago, and I swear I
havent gotten a good nights sleep since. Im at the end of my rope; I can tell you both that. And
after last night she sighed heavily.
What happened last night? Did you have another visitation? Attis asked her anxiously.
Yes and such an awful one! I have to show you both the latest depredations. Come with
me, she carefully hoisted herself from the couch with Attiss help, and began to hobble out the
door of the sitting room with the two men on her heels. She moved surprisingly quickly
considering her age and slight limp.
Ms. Sanderby took them to an elevator concealed behind a door. They rode to the second
floor, a short trip. Then the elderly lady took them along a hallway to a closed door. This is a

guest room which is quite close to my own, she told them as she put her hand on the knob.
There was such an awful racket last night but I was afraid to get up and go see. This is what I
found this morning.
She turned the cut crystal-looking doorknob and pushed the door open. Inside, the two
men saw that the room had been thoroughly trashed. The bedspread was ripped and torn as
though claws had savaged it. Knickknacks had been shattered on the floor. A chair had been
broken into kindling. Gouges had been dug into the bed itself. And something that looked an
awful lot like blood had been smeared in great swathes on the walls. Large letters had been
written on one wall in the blood, or whatever the substance was. They said GET OUT! in two
foot letters.
Attis put an arm around Ms. Sanderby, who was shaking. Itll be okay, he told her
stoutly. Blake and I will find this ghost and get rid of it. I promise. Right Blake? he turned
pleading eyes on the cop.
Right, Blake said, meaning it. It was clear to him that this wasnt being done by a ghost
at all, and he was going to find the perpetrator of this vandalism before whoever it was gave the
poor old lady a heart attack. There was a malicious feel to this whole thing that he didnt like at
all.
There, you see? You have nothing to worry about, Ms. Sanderby, Attis crooned
soothingly. Just leave it all to us now.
Oh, thank you both, the old lady said weakly. Im at my wits end. I dont know what
Id have done if you hadnt come to my door, Mr. Gallagher. Moved out, I guess. Which would
have broken my heart. She sighed.
You wont have to leave your home, I promise. Now you go back to the sitting room
and have some tea while Blake and I check this room for vibrations. Okay? he shooed her away
back toward the elevator, and she went gladly. Clearly she didnt want to look at the destruction
that had been wrought in her guest bedroom anymore.
Attis and Blake waited until shed stepped into the elevator. Then the psychic turned to
the cop and said in a matter-of-fact tone of voice: I know this wasnt a ghost, Blake. It cant be,
I get no vibrations at all from this house. That means that someone physical is doing it. While I
hate to have to tell Ms. Sanderby that, I think someone around her is trying to run her out of her
home. We cant let this person do that, he went on in a determined way.

Blakes brows shot up. He hadnt realized that Attis could actually be that practical
before this. Youre probably right, he replied, stepping into the guest bedroom to go and look
more closely at the blood on the walls. This isnt the work of something supernatural.
Somebody, he leaned close enough to the wall that his nose was practically touching it, Human
did this. I dont know why theyre trying to run her out, but Id bet it has to do with money
somehow. It always does in the end, he added dryly.
Ms. Sanderby does have a fair amount of money, Attis said worriedly.
Whos the main beneficiary of her will? Do you know? the cop asked as he reached out
to touch the dried on red substance lightly with his fingertips. I think its paint or something
similar, he went on thoughtfully.
I think that her nephew would inherit everything. I met him the other day. But he seems
to be very worried about his aunts welfare. She says that he comes around every day to help her
out and check on her. Surely he wouldnt be doing this? Attis said doubtfully.
He could be using those visits to set up more ghost activity, or even to see what the
results of his haunting are each day, how close his aunt might be to cracking, Blake replied. I
wont know until I check him out and question him. It could be one of the staff, too. And she
has other relatives, right?
Yes. She had two brothers and a sister, who all had families. They might be in her will
I didnt really ask her about it. So it might be one of them, right?
Yeah, which will leave us with a fair amount of suspects. Lewis and I can do the leg
work on this, check up on each of her relatives their financials situations, whether they get
along with her, that kind of thing you should stay away from this case, Attis, especially since
somebodys probably trying to off you because you were sticking your nose into it.
But I have to help Ms. Sanderby! the psychic protested unhappily.
You already have by figuring out that this wasnt a haunting and bringing me into it.
You should leave it up to the police now, since were trained professionals and youre not. What
else do you think you could do, anyway? he said impatiently as Attiss pointed face fell.
Youre a psychic, not a detective. The most you can hope to happen is to have a vision of the
culprit. And you can do that at my apartment just as well as you can here.

Actually, I have more hope of having a vision about that here than at your apartment,
Attis pointed out quickly. Because of the vibrations in the house. Please, Blake, wont you let
me try? Ms. Sanderbys a scared old lady, she needs my help! he cried, his eyes begging.
Blake wanted to curse under his breath. He was finding, much to his chagrin, that he was
almost completely incapable of resisting the little beggar when he started pleading. Something
about those big eyes just wouldnt let him be hard hearted. He sighed. Fine, as long as Im here
you can be too. But youre not coming back here alone later on, he added sternly. Youll have
to wait until I can bring you again. You got it?
I got it! Attis yelped, then startled him by racing over and hugging him. Thank you,
Blake!
Yeah, yeah, the detective said dryly, trying to peel the little barnacle off of him. He was
more than a little disturbed by being this close to Attis; he could feel his groin reacting to having
that slim form pressed to his own, and he was afraid that Attis would be able to feel it soon too.
So he sighed silently in relief when he finally managed to scrape the psychic off of him and push
the smaller man away a bit.
You do your psychic thing, and Ill take a look around the house. Be careful and keep
your eyes peeled, Blake added. Please remember that someone is trying to kill you. Okay?
Attis saluted him smartly. Yes, Sir! he cried, then giggled at Blakes expression before
he skittered out of the room.
Blake stood there for a moment, taking deep breaths and waiting for his body to stand
down. It seemed reluctant to do so, especially since hed gotten a good look at that small tight
ass clad in those ridiculous rainbow striped ski pants as Attis had bounced out of the room. He
put a hand to his forehead. Damn it! Why was this happening to him? What had he done to
deserve being attracted to that green-haired little troll? It just wasnt fair! He tried to tell his
body (and especially his dick) that Attis was straight, but it wasnt listening. His hormones
seemed to have gone haywire or something. He just didnt know what to do about this not-solittle problem (that wasnt bragging, just the truth). Until he could get out and find a hot guy to
sleep with, he was going to go on being sexually frustrated. Which didnt bode well for his sanity
at all, since Attis would be living with him for who knew how long.
Blake forced his mind back to the task at hand as a way to divert his horniness into useful
channels. He prowled the room, taking a look at everything that had been smashed, gouged, or

ripped. Then he went out into the hallway and began to methodically check every other room in
the house that wasnt locked, looking for clues or signs that a person had been in there. If he
could solve this case soon, he could get Attis off of his back for good. No more green-haired
menaces sleeping on his couch or having dreams about his most private and emotionally fraught
moments. No more crazy psychics prancing around his apartment in nothing but overlong shirts
and giving him a perpetual hard-on. He could go back to peaceful silence or only having to
listen to the sound of his TV. Ahh, heaven. And if one corner of his mind nudged him and told
him that he was going to miss Attis when the other man had gone, Blake ignored it completely.
That was the voice of his potential insanity speaking, and he wasnt going to give it the time of
day.

9
Attis went down to the sitting room to talk to Ms. Sanderby. He found the old lady
crocheting and drinking a cup of tea. She looked far more relaxed now that the two of them had
arrived, and she greeted him with a smile. Mr. Gallagher. How is it going? she asked him.
Blake is checking the upstairs for negative vibrations, Attis replied promptly, not liking
to lie but willing to do so in this case. He didnt want Ms. Sanderby to be any more stressed than
she already was. And Im going to do some readings down here. Im sure that well be able to
find this ghost, Ms. Sanderby. Dont you worry about anything.
Youre such a sweet boy. Thank you, Mr. Gallagher, she replied in relief. And your
companion seems like a capable person. My, but hes quite handsome. Youre very lucky, she
told him, making Attis give her a puzzled stare.
What do you mean, Ms. Sanderby? he asked.
Well, she began tactfully, I presume that youreerrthat you prefer the company of
men, the elderly lady began. And that Detective Marsh is yourhmmsignificant other.
Attis gaped at her. Oh, no! he cried. Youre mistaken! Blake is gay, he told me so,
but
Its all right, Mr. Gallagher, you dont have to try to deny it, she said quickly. I know
that everyone is far more open about it these days.

The psychic didnt know quite what to say. He just stared at her, which made the old lady
smile gently at him. I saw the way he looked at you, she remarked. Its good to see young
people in love. I dont have the prejudices of most old people against same-sex pairingsof
course, that might be because when I was younger I was much drawn to a pretty young girl who
used to live next door to us. Nothing came of it, of course her smile became lopsided over
that old memory.
ButMs. Sanderby Attis began weakly. I like girls, really I do! Blake is a friend.
Are you sure that thats all he is? she asked, looking at him out of those wise old eyes.
Attiss mouth opened and closed. Had Ms. Sanderby seen something that he hadnt? He
liked Blake Marsh, but hed never thought about it as being more than that. He felt confused.
He scratched at his green head, not sure what to think. The very nice elderly lady sitting on the
brocade couch had opened a Pandoras box for the innocent Attis, and there was no way for him
to put the thoughts that had come out of it back in again.
Attis wandered out of the sitting room on the excuse that he was going to take more
readings with his crystal. This wasnt really true; he had tried almost every part of the house
already, and hadnt gotten any readings. What was the point of trying again? What he really
needed to do was to think. To think about what Ms. Sanderby had said to him. About Blake. He
bit at his pink lower lip a little as he walked slowly across the foyer and went into the hallway
leading to a study and the ground floor bathroom. Attis practically gnawed at his lip as he
entered the study.
He was thinking about Blake Marsh. Hed always liked the policeman, far more than
Blake liked him in return. The psychic was self-aware enough to know that the other man didnt
particularly like him that had never mattered to Attis. All that had mattered was that HE liked
Blake. But could it be? Was Ms. Sanderby right? Did he like Blake as more than just a friend?
Was hegay? He considered this question as his eyes slid over the bookshelves behind the
polished oak desk. He didnt think so. He certainly wasnt attracted to any other men that he
knew. But until the elderly lady in the sitting room had mentioned the fact that she thought that
Blake and Attis were a couple, it hadnt occurred to him that his liking was any more than just
that like. Could it be more?

He was uncertain and confused.

Hey, Attis, a deep voice said behind him, making the psychic jump about three feet in
the air. He squeaked and whirled around, his eyes wide. Blake was standing there in the door of

the study, staring at him with his eyebrows drawing down a bit. What the hell? You see a
mouse or something? he demanded.
Attis could feel his lungs heaving as he tried to breathe properly. Worse, he could feel his
face turning red. He shook his head swiftly in answer, since actually vocalizing was beyond him
at the moment. The detective sighed and shook his own head in disgust. Well, Ive searched all
the rooms upstairs. I didnt find anything. So I guess we could do this room next. Ill search the
place and you can wave your crystal around like youre actually doing something, he said
sardonically, looking at the rose quartz crystal clutched in Attiss hand.
The psychic eeped and scurried to the side as Blake strode past him. The policeman gave
him the look such an action deserved, as though Attis were a lunatic. The psychic FELT like a
lunatic at the moment; his body was too warm and starting to tingle in a weird manner, and even
the thought of being any closer to Blake made him start to sweat lightly. He watched as Blake
moved around and began to search the desk quickly and efficiently. Attis found himself admiring
the way Blakes hands moved. They looked so strong and deft
When he realized what he was thinking, Attis almost moaned. Oh, this was bad! He
suddenly felt like Bobo when Bunny went into heat. Hed start sniffing at her expectantly, his
ears all atwitch and his little tail bobbing. Or maybe he was Bunny, because he felt really warm
by now and they didnt call it heat for nothingthe psychic felt like whimpering, and he
wanted nothing more than to flee the study. But his legs didnt seem to be working properly at
the moment either. So he stood there like a tree that had rooted itself to the ground, his wide eyes
fastened on Blake as the detective finished searching the desk and turned to the bookcases.
Blake wondered what the hell was wrong with Attis. Well, more than usual anyway. The
psychic was acting really strange, even for him. And he could feel the weight of those big eyes
on him as he checked the books. Attis was just standing there like hed turned into a pillar of salt
or something. It was weird and disturbing. Finally he turned around and demanded sharply:
Look, just what the fuck is it? Why are you staring at me like that?
Attis jumped again. Uhhtheres nothing wrong! he cried in a voice that was going
even higher than usual. Nothing!
Blake sighed. If you say so. Just quit staring at me, will you? Its creeping me out. He
turned back to his search, frowning a bit to himself.

Attis swiftly looked at a vase sitting on a stand nearby, not wanting to make Blake any
angrier. He wiped at the sweat on his forehead, feeling miserable. Less than an hour ago, hed
been utterly confident and happy. Now he was so confused and bewildered his brain felt like it
was going to explode. Attis had never had a crush on anyone before this; he was sort of a late
bloomer. So he didnt really understand what he was feeling. All breathless and too warm and
kind of squirmyit was uncomfortable and he wished that he could go back to his innocent nonknowing again. But unfortunately, the freed genie was gleefully pummeling his brain with
thoughts and images that hed never had before. He had the sudden urge to cry, and couldnt
quite contain a sniffle.
Blake heard that small sound and tensed. Oh God, not again! He locked his teeth on an
oath. What is it now, Attis? he said in a very quiet voice. If he hadnt said it quietly, he would
have shouted it. Then he would have scared Attis, who would start crying hardera vicious,
horrible circle.
N-Nothing, the psychic sniffled, sounding miserable.
Damn it! Blake whirled around, intent on getting his feelings about sad faced crying off
of his chest. But he ended up just staring at Attis, trying to figure out if his eyes had stopped
working properly because he was so pissed.
If they werent broken, then he was seeing something that shocked him into a standstill.
Not the tears glistening in those big eyes, or the wobbling lower lip; not the flush on the pale
cheeks or even the drops of sweat on the psychics forehead. What he was seeing that took him
aback was a lot lower down. Was the front of those rainbow striped ski pants tenting at the
front? Did Attis Gallagher actually have a hard on? Why? And did that erection have
something to do with the tears and misery? He blinked, trying to get his brain to start working
again.
Attis, he began, still staring at the bulge in the front of those ski pants. What the?
Are you crying because ofthat? he nodded at the front of Attiss ski pants, making the
psychic give him a bewildered look.
What? he said in puzzlement, pulled out of his internal misery by Blakes question.
Youve got a stiffie, Blake replied in a matter-of-fact tone of voice, pointing at his
groin. See? Attiss eyes fell to where Blakes finger was pointing.

When he saw the bulge, he squealed rather like one of his rabbits in total embarrassment
and buried his face in his slim hands. Oooh, ohh! he cried in horror.
Blake sighed in a put-upon way as Attis hid his face in his hands. Lord, why him? Every
guy got hard-ons, so why was the psychic acting like his mother had just walked in on him
jerking off? Listen, theres nothing to be ashamed of, he said aloud, trying to reassure Attis
because he definitely didnt want any more tears. Every guy throws one out in public once in
awhile. Ive done it. So dont get so excited, okay? Im not going to laugh at you or anything.
Attis was trembling by now. Blake hesitated, but finally he could stand it no more. He
walked forward and reached out to set his hands on the psychics skinny shoulders. Hey, dont
take it so hard, he said, then realized the inherent pun in what hed just said and had to fight
down a guffaw. Its okay.
Attis jumped once more when big hands settled on his shoulders. He gasped, freezing as
those warm palms seemed to burn him through the fabric of his shirt. Oh, oh, this was definitely
not something that was designed to make his little problem go away! Blake patted his
shoulders, and he wanted to moan desperately. The detective was obviously trying to comfort
him, but his whole body seemed to be in tune with the touch of those hands. It thrummed,
making him quiver a little. He began to gasp heavily, feeling like he might hyperventilate at any
moment.
Blake could feel the small form quivering under his hands. Why was Attis so upset? He
was completely baffled. A little embarrassment he could understand, but the psychic seemed to
be totally out of it. He wondered what to do now. Really, Attis, its no big deal, he said
desperately.
Attis trembled as he tried to pull himself together even a little bit. He wanted to reassure
Blake that he was all right, lest the poor detective lose it completely himself. He lifted his head
from his hands, seeing those steel grey eyes staring down at him with a worried expression in
them. It made him feel better to know that Blake cared enough to worry about him. He tried to
smile, though it came out wobbly. I-Im okay, Blake, he said in a small voice.
Blake studied his flushed, tear stained face. You sure? he asked.
A nod. Really I am, Attis said earnestly when he could speak a bit better. Its just
he blushed again as he remembered what had caused his breakdown in the first place.

Blakes lips twitched a bit. I told you its fine. Every guy gets em, many times in the
most embarrassing situations. Did you see a hot girl or something? he asked teasingly.
Attis turned brick red. No, he said on another squeak.
Blakes brows lifted. So you just got one for no reason at all? Are you sure youre not
sixteen? he said, looking Attiss scrawny form over thoughtfully.
The psychics tongue seemed to be freezing to the roof of his mouth. He shook his head,
not wanting to speak aloud. Blake frowned. No what? No you didnt get wood for no reason,
or no youre not sixteen?
Attis cleared his throat desperately. No Ididntummmget onefor no reason, he
said as his big eyes slid away over Blakes left shoulder.
Uhh, okay. So why did you get it? Dont tell me youre turned on by stuffed animals,
he continued, looking at the deer head hung on one wall.
No, Attis said in that same small voice.
Well, you dont have to tell me if you dont want to. As long as youre done crying, we
can forget this ever happened, Blake hastened to reassure him, starting to turn away and resume
the search of the study.
Attis stared at his retreating back and felt a weird sensation in the pit of his stomach. He
could let Blake walk away and pretend that nothing had happened. He could pretend that Ms.
Sanderby hadnt said anything to him. He could go back to his old relationship with Blake,
wherein he was happy-go-lucky and the detective was surly and rather hostile toward him. This
was a very large crossroads in his life, much like the one hed come to when he was seventeen
and had read the article in the newspaper telling him that his first vision had been real and not
just a disturbing dream. He could have denied it then as well, could have tried his best to ignore
his newfound gift. He could have been miserable and suppressed, instead of embracing his gift
and trying his best to use it to help others. But Attis was wise enough (in a simple sort of way),
to know that pretending nothing had happened was the wrong road to take.
Blake, he said hoarsely, making the detective look up at him impatiently.
What? he asked, pausing in his search as he waited for Attis to continue.
Umm, the psychic swept his foot out in front of him as he stared down at it, his fingers
twining together in front of him. I wasI gotthatbecause I wasMs. Sanderby said he
trailed off, finding it harder to admit the origins of his erection than hed thought it would be.

Ms. Sanderby said Blake replied on a warning growl of sound. Clearly he was about
to lose his temper and smack Attis if he didnt go on or stop altogether. Uhh, she saidthat she
thought thatwe were a couple. Attis nearly whispered as he became fascinated by the carpet
under foot.
Silence. Then: She thought what?! Blake nearly roared.
That we were a couple, Attis said a little louder, his shoulders hunching. Because she
guessed that you were gay, and she said that you were looking at me in a certain way, and she
asked me if we were together, and when I told her that I liked girls she asked me if I liked you
more
Blakes mouth hung open a little at this confession. He stared at the top of Attiss bent
green head. And what did you say?
Attis tensed completely. I didnt say anythingcause I needed to think, he said. So I
left and came in here, and I was thinking when you came in, and thats why I was acting so
strange he shrugged helplessly.
Okkaayy. So what does this have to do with he trailed off himself as the
implications of what Attis was trying to say to him finally hit him. Are you saying that you got
an erectionbecause of me? he said at last.
I think so, the psychic replied softly. I felt so weird and warm when I looked at you,
and I felt like I couldnt breathe, and then you said that Id he colored again. Gotten a
Yeah, okay, Blake said hurriedly, putting up a hand. So you think you might actually
be attracted to me? he wasnt sure how he felt about this confession. On the one hand, he was
inexplicably attracted to the little psychic himself. On the other, Attis was a nearly impossible
creature who drove him crazy. So giving in to that attraction would probably be a really bad idea.
Attis nodded a bit. I guess so. I dont know. Does being attracted to someone mean that
your heart races and you get a funny feeling in the pit of your stomach?
Blake wasnt really surprised that Attis had no idea what attraction felt like. Yeah,
thats part of it, he agreed.
Oh, then I guess Im attracted to you. Im sorry, Blake. I didnt mean to, he said
earnestly.
Damn, but for some strange reason the little terror was utterly cute like this. His shamefaced apology over being attracted to Blake made the detective want to howl with laughter. But it

also gave him another impulse, one that he couldnt fight back as well as he would have liked to.
He sighed very, very softly as he gave into something he couldnt quite deny, no matter how
much he would have liked to. Then he walked around the desk, moved over to where Attis was
peering up at him questioningly out of those puzzled big eyes, grabbed the psychic by his skinny
armsand nearly bent at the waist as he cupped a hand around the back of Attiss head at the
same time that he closed his mouth over the psychics in a deliberately soft but decidedly intense
kiss.
Attis was moaning into his mouth. It was a thread of sound, and one that made a certain
part of Blakes anatomy stand to attention fiercely. It took all he had not to plunder the psychics
mouth, to feast on it. He had to remind himself sharply that Attis had probably never been kissed
before by anyone. When he could finally control himself no more, he pulled back rather than
deepening the kiss. Big hazel eyes blinked up at him dazedly, not helping his resolve at all.
Attis, he husked. We have to talk.
The psychic gave him a puzzled look. About what? he asked curiously.
Blake wanted to groan. About what just happened, of course, he replied in
exasperation. About me kissing you.
Oh, Attis looked up at him uncertainly. What about it? I really liked it, he said
earnestly.
The detectives lips twitched. Thats good, he said. But theres a lot we need to
discuss. For example, do you want me to do that again? Or even more? Youre attracted to me,
and God help me I seem to be attracted to you for some unknown reasonso should we get
together? Or not?
Attis scratched at his green dyed head. It seems awfully complicated, he said
uncertainly.
Blake shrugged. Sometimes it is. In our case definitely, because Im a bit weirded out
by this whole thingand youve obviously never been with another guy before. He didnt add
that it was clear that the psychic had never been with anyone before.
Attis studied his face. So what do we do? he asked.
Lets sit down and talk, he said, pointing to as pair of deep leather chairs near the desk.
Okay, Attis pattered after him, climbing into the chair like a little kid as Blake threw
himself down in the other one and rubbed at his forehead. The detective felt like he was in an

odd sort of dream had he really just kissed Attis Gallagher? And were they now going to have
a discussion about that fact? It was like he had wandered into Bizarro World somehow, where
everything was upside down and backward to what it should be.
Attis had set his hands on the arms of the leather chair, and was kicking his legs a bit.
Clearly he was enjoying himself. Blake snorted. Hey, Short Round. Pay attention. We just
locked lips, remember? he waved a hand impatiently at the psychic.
Attis jumped. Oh. Umm, what should we talk about? he said.
Blake sighed. I dunno. Maybe we could discuss whether we should have sex or not? he
growled.
Attiss eyes got REALLY big at these words. Sex? he eeped, swallowing convulsively
as his fingers dug into the arms of the chair in a nervous spasm.
The detective just stared at him. Yeah, sex. Thats usually what happens when people
start kissing each other, especially with tongues involved. What the hell did you think I wanted
to talk about? Macram?
Attis squirmed visibly in the chair. I-I justummIve never
Thats pretty clear, yeah, Blake replied a bit more gently. I know you havent ever,
which is one of the reasons that were having this conversation in the first place. Itll be up to
you whether we do the deed or not, Attis, since this whole thing is completely new to you. Only
you can decide if you want to lose your virginity or not.
The psychic picked at the arm of the chair. I really liked the kiss, he said softly. And
the way you made me feel. Im justscared, I guess. I dont really know that much about two
men having sex, he added as he bit at his lower lip a little.
Blake nodded. I get that. Believe me, Im not that fired up about being with a virgin
either. Ive never been with one. He explained to the psychic.
Attis gazed at him. You havent? Ever?
No. The first guy I was with was a lot more experienced than I was, so not even then.
This is freaky for me, not only because of that fact but because youre not my usual type of guy
at all. And yet his shoulders lifted in bafflement. I do want you. I dont get it, but there it
is.
Attis moved in the chair again. I dont get being attracted to another guy either, he said
rather plaintatively. Ive NEVER been attracted to other men.

Have you ever been attracted to anybody? Blake asked him cynically.
He nodded vigorously. There was this girl in my school who was really pretty. I wanted
to ask her out, but I was afraid that she wouldnt want to go out with me because I was so short.
And then I had my accident, and then the first of my visions, and I didnt get back to school for
over half a year. And by then she was dating someone else
Blakes brows lifted. So you were attracted to this girl? She made you feel like you did
around me just now?
Color flooded Attiss pointed face. Well, not really, he said uncertainly.
Did she give you boners? The detective asked bluntly.
Well, no
Then you werent attracted to her. You were a teenage boy; you should have been
throwing boners every time you saw her and jacking off constantly while thinking of her. Blake
replied. Thats how attraction works, especially for a teenage boy.
Oh, the psychic said slowly. Then I guessI dont knowthat Ive never really been
attracted to anyone before you.
Thats what I figured, Blake said. Youve always seemed pretty asexual to me. Or
maybe the right word Im looking for is unawakened. But now that you are, what do you want
to do about it?
Attis reached up to touch his lips as he thought about this question. Blake felt another
stirring in parts south as he watched this, which made him want to put a hand over his eyes and
groan again. Lord, to be this attracted to Attis Gallagher of all people! God, Lewis was going to
laugh his ass off when Blake told him that hed been right. He almost couldnt stand the thought.
Almost. Because the memory of the way that the psychics mouth had tasted was keeping him
from just telling Attis that this whole thing was off and they were never to talk about it ever
again.
I wantI thinkthat I Attis seemed even more incoherent than usual. It irritated
Blake, who wanted to shake the little terror to make him speak more clearly. But he reined in his
temper, knowing that the psychic was struggling with something hed never experienced before.
Attis looked at the floor. Then he glanced up at the detective solemnly. Im scared, he
breathed, But I know what feels right. And this does. So Iwant to have sex with you, Blake.
If thats what you want too?

Blake sighed in mingled relief and resignation. Come here, he said to Attis, holding out
his hand. Surprised, the psychic scrambled out of the leather armchair and came over to where
the detective was sitting. An arm reached out and pulled him into Blakes lap, making him
squeak. He found his legs straddling the detectives, as he looked into those steel-grey eyes.
This is my answer to your question, Blake growled, then grabbed the back of his green head
again and pulled him in for another kiss.
Attis gasped, then mewled as a tongue slid into his mouth. His skinny arms lifted of their
own volition, winding around Blakes neck. He squealed into the kiss as a hand closed over his
ass, lightly squeezing it through the ski pants. This touch excited him greatly, and he moaned as
he pressed himself even closer to Blake. Heat rose up in him until the psychic felt giddy with it.
The tongue coaxed his out of his mouth, curling over it lazily. Oh! This felt so good! And that
hand was sliding into the back of his ski pants, finding bare flesh under his briefs. It seemed to
burn on his skin. His hips started to sway a bit, and he moaned loudly. He wasnt scared
anymore, oh no. How could he be? Blake was making him feel so nice with his touches and
kisses, and it felt so very rightthis was what he should be doing. Attis was utterly sure of it.
Blake tore his mouth away, but before Attis could protest he found his neck being tilted
up and a mouth settled against it. He gasped as the detective suckled lightly at his tender flesh.
Do you like this, Attis? he growled softly as he licked at the psychics skin.
Oh, yes! Attis cried, shivering in his grip.
Good. Now lift up a bit, Blake encouraged him.
Attis blinked, then realized that Blake was tugging at his ski pants with the hand that had
just been down the back of them. Puzzled, he did as he was told. He sat up a bit, and then drew in
a shocked breath as hands settled at his waist and began to pull the ski pants and his briefs down
his hips. What are you doing?! he squealed.
That should be obvious, even to you, Blake replied acerbically. The psychic might have
protested again, but by then the pants and briefs had been slid down far enough that his cock had
sprung forth into the open air. Attis gasped in embarrassment and excitement combined as Blake
looked down at his semi-nudity, his face flaming.
Blake was surprised by the size of the penis revealed, although he supposed that he
shouldnt be. Small men were often well-hung, as though nature were compensating them for
their lack of stature. Attiss cock was at least eight inches long and fairly thick, looking

incongruous against his narrow hips. The pubic hair clustered around it revealed that underneath
the dye the hair on Attiss head was apparently a soft golden-brown. A drop of precum drooled
out of the pink tip as it twitched. Bllaakkeee, the psychic moaned.
That sound made his own cock jerk in his jeans. Dont worry about it, Attis, he said as
he reached down to take the smaller man in hand, Youll like this, I promise.
The psychic forgot how to speak as Blakes hand curled over his cock and began to stoke
the length of it. His head went back, and he struggled to breathe as his slim hands closed over
Blakes shoulders and dug in. Ahh, he whimpered, his hips moving into each stroke. Ohh,
Blake.
Thats it, Attis, the other man said encouragingly. Feels good, huh? his thumb ran
over the weeping tip, and the psychic trembled and jerked. His face had flushed, his whole body
tensing as pleasure swamped him. Having Blakes hand on him was so much better than the
times hed touched himself and now the detective was leaning a bit forward and was licking at
his throat again. He shivered helplessly as fingers found his balls and rubbed at them lightly. He
bit at his kiss swollen lips, his back and neck arching as Blake bit at the protruding end of his
collarbone.
Come for me, Attis, the detective commanded against his neck. Let me hear you.
The psychic cried out, unable to help himself, shuddering as Blakes fingers coaxed an
intense orgasm out of him. He spurted out over those caressing fingers, slumping forward against
Blake in a panting heap. A hand closed over his back and held him as he recovered, and he felt
content and happy to be held in Blakes strong arms. Attis snuggled up to the other man, laying
his green head against the detectives shoulder like a trusting kitten.
On Blakes part, he found that he was enjoying this too. The sounds that Attis had made
under his handsthe expression on the pointed face when he cameDamn. He idly stroked
Attiss back, feeling the smaller mans body moving with his breathing. This was surprisingly
pleasant, this quiet interlude. Finally Attis lifted his head a little. His dreamy hazel eyes met
Blakes. Wow, he breathed softly. That was so good, Blake.
Im glad you liked it, the detective replied. But believe me, itll be even better when
we actually have sex.
Attis blinked. It will? he asked in amazement.
Blakes lips curled up at one corner. Yeah, he said. It will.

Oh. Then can we do it soon? the psychic asked hopefully.

Blake gaped at him. Then he laughed, shaking his head. You are a piece of work, Attis,
he remarked dryly. Yeah, I guess we could do it sometime soon. But for now, he kissed
Attiss lips lightly, We have work to do. We have to find out whose haunting Ms. Sanderby.
Before she has a heart attack or is driven out of her own house.
Attis yipped. Oh! Yes! I forgot for a second!
Blake chuckled as he pulled out a tissue from his pocket to clean himself up. You might
have had other things on your mind, he pointed out. Now pull yourself together, he nodded at
the psychics pants, which were still around his lower thighs, And well get back to work. Well
talk about having sex later on. Okay?
Yes, Blake, Attis replied swiftly, pulling his briefs and ski pants back up. He
scrambled off of the detectives lap.
Blake stood up and finished wiping the droplets of semen off of his shirt and thighs.
Attis turned faintly pink while watching him, which made Blakes lips twitch again. Comes
with the territory, he told the psychic. Sex is messy. Youll have to get used to it.
Okay. Whatll we do next, Blake? About Ms. Sanderbys problem, I mean? he added
hurriedly.
Ill finish searching the house, then Ill have a little talk with Ms. Sanderby. Casually
ask her about her relatives. Im sure it has to be one of them, or maybe the housekeeper. Those
are the only people with consistent access to this house at night.
Why would the housekeeper be doing this? Attis cried, looking unhappy.
Blake sighed. Im not saying that she is, Attis, its just one theory among many, he said
patiently. Im a cop; I have to look into everything.
Oh. Of course you do. I understand. What do you want me to do, Blake?
Stay out of the way, but since I know you wont the detective replied with a sigh.
How about you go and talk to the cook? See what she can tell you about Ms. Sanderbys
family and the housekeeper too. You like to cook; maybe you could help her out in the kitchen.
Okay! the psychic brightened up at this suggestion. Ill go do that! See you later,
Blake! he scurried out of the room, making Blake shake his head. Lord help him, just what the
hell had he gotten himself into? Man, his hormones had a lot to answer for.

10
Attis was helping Ms. Sanderbys cook by tossing a salad. He chatted with her as he did
so, and she smiled benevolently at him as she put some braised chicken breasts in the oven to
cook. Yes, Ms. Sanderby has a big family, she told him. Although we dont see most of them
much, which is sad. Shes such a nice lady. I worry that shes lonely sometimes.
But at least her nephew comes to see her a lot, Attis pointed out.
Her mouth formed a moue of distaste. Thats true, she conceded. Attis blinked.
Dont you like him? he asked curiously.
She shrugged. Hes attentive to Ms. Sanderby, she said. But he seemsI dont
knowoily. Like hes trying to get into her good graces because he wants something from her.
Maybe Im wrong, I dont know, she went on.
Attis looked thoughtful as he cut up tomato slices for the salad. Hed have to tell Blake
about what the cook had said later on. The detective would want to speak to the attentive
nephew as a possible suspect. It pleased him to get some information for Blake. Attis just liked
to help, especially someone as kind as Ms. Sanderby was. He wanted hisummmfriend?
Boyfriend? Lover? To catch the horrible person imitating a ghost and scaring Ms. Sanderby out
of her wits.
Attis squirmed on the chair he was sitting on. He was thinking about what had happened
in the study just a little while ago. His face flamed as he remembered those very nice touches as
Blake had stroked him. But at the same time, he was eager to feel those (and the even better that
Blake had promised him) again as soon as possible. Being a simple soul, Attis didnt feel any
shame where sexual things were concerned. He might have been a little embarrassed and nervous
about being touched by someone other than himself for the first time, but now that hed felt how
good it was he couldnt help but want more. He really, REALLY liked it when Blake touched
him. Desire had become a part of Attis Gallagher for the first time in his life, and hed always
been as curious as a cat about new things.
He finished putting the salad together, tossing it in the wooden bowl. Cook had been
kind enough to make him another soy veggie burger, and hed have that as well as some salad for
lunch. This is done. Can I help with anything else? Attis asked.

No, dear, youve been a great help. Why dont you run along and talk to Ms. Sanderby
while I finish making lunch? Ill ring the bell when its ready.
Okay! he piped up, smiling at her before he scurried out of the room.
*****
Attis found Blake still talking to Ms. Sanderby in the sitting room. She was crocheting as
she talked, telling the detective all about her family. The psychic felt a twinge of sadness,
knowing that it was probably one of those relatives who was haunting her and trying to drive
her out of her own house. He knew shed be very hurt and unhappy when they discovered the
identity of the so-called ghost and the detective arrested him. But they had no choice - Blake was
right. She might have a heart attack from fear, or become ill from anxiety. He entered the room,
and the old lady greeted him with a smile. Hello, Mr. Gallagher. Ive just been telling Detective
Marsh here all about my family. Im sure that hed probably bored by now, but being the nice
young man that he is hes putting up with my ramblings.
Blake spoke up: No, Ms. Sanderby, Im very interested in what you have to say. Im not
just humoring you.
She chuckled as Attis came over to sit down on the couch next to Blake. You see? Hes
very nice, she told Attis.
The psychic knew that Blake wasnt just humoring her, that he actually wanted to know
all about her family so that he could determine who might be the best suspects. So he piped up:
Id like to hear about them, too, Ms. Sanderby.
Well, arent you just the nicest young men, she remarked. I presume that lunch is
almost finished? she asked the psychic.
He nodded. Very well then. Ill continue with my stories until she rings the bell. Then
well change the subject and find something else to talk about as we eat.
She began to talk again, while both of them listened intently. Or at least Attis thought that
Blake was listening intently until a hand slid around behind him and began to worm its way
into his ski pants! His eyes went wide, and he jumped. Are you all right, Mr. Gallagher? Ms.
Sanderby asked in concern.
Yes! he yelped, feeling a big hand cradling the curve of his ass. He threw a desperate
glance at Blakes face, which gave absolutely nothing away. The detective simply lifted a brow,
as though he were silently asking Attis what his problem was.

Are you sure? the old lady asked uncertainly.

Attis nodded vigorously. Sure Im sure! he cried, gasping a bit as long fingers stroked
lightly over his skin.
Ms. Sanderby gave him a doubtful look, but started talking again. Attis gritted his teeth as
fingers squeezed at the flesh of his buttocks. Oh, oh! Blake was being so awful! But he couldnt
protest, not if he didnt want to embarrass himself in front of poor Ms. Sanderby. So he endured
this pleasurable torture as best he could, nearly whimpering as those fingers slid lower and
rubbed sensually at the seam between his cheeks. So very close to sensitive placeshe wanted to
moan, wondering wildly if the elderly lady across from them could see the rising bulge at the
front of his ski pants. He rocked his hips a little as a finger traced closer and closer to his anus. If
Blake touched him THERE hed just die! Or come in his ski pants, which would be horribly
humiliating. He bit at his lip, struggling to control himself.
Fortunately he was saved by the entrance of Ms. Sanderbys nephew. The man walked
into the sitting room, and Blake instantly pulled his hand out of the psychics ski pants and put
all of his attention on the newcomer. Seymour Jansen, for his part, came to a halt on seeing Attis
sitting on the couch. His eyes narrowed, then became near slits when he caught sight of Blake.
Aunt Gladys? he asked not looking away from the suspicious looking man sitting with Attis.
Who is this?
Ah, Seymour. You know Attis Gallagher, of course. And this is a friend of his,
Detective Blake Marsh. Detective Marsh, this is my nephew Seymour Jansen.
Nice to meet you, Mr. Jansen, Blake said neutrally, his own steel-grey eyes narrowing
a bit.
Detective?! Seymour blurted. Youre a cop?!
Thats right, Blake said in a low, rather menacing voice that made the fine hairs try to
stand up on the back of Attiss neck. Is that a problem?
The man pulled himself together after his shock. Of course not, he said coldly. He
turned to his aunt. How are you today, Aunt Gladys? Are you well?
Im fine, dear, she replied with a reassuring smile. Especially since Mr. Gallagher and
Detective Blake arrived. And you, of course, she added with a smile for him. I feel very safe
with all of you here.

Thats good, he said somewhat sourly. Will yourfriendsbe staying for lunch? he
asked with a glance full of dislike at Attis and Blake.
Why yes, if thats not a problem? she said with a questioning glance for him.
He was swift to say: No, of course it isnt. I look forward to talking with both of you,
he said to the two men, obviously being totally insincere. But before that, Ill just go do some
work in the yard.
Ill help you, Blake remarked, rising to his feet.
Thats not necessary! he squalled, looking alarmed.
Sure it is. Its a two man job, working in the yard of a place this big. Attis will stay here
and keep Ms. Sanderby company. Well see you both in a little while, he added to the elderly
lady and the psychic.
Seymour had no choice but to accept Blakes help, although he looked like a man whod
just drunk curdled milk as he left the room with Blake at his heels. What a nice person your
young man is, Ms. Sanderby told Attis after theyd gone.
Thinking about the hidden groping session that had just taken place, Attis wasnt entirely
sure that he agreed with her on that one. Blake was actually pretty naughty. But he nodded
anyway. Blakes pretty cool, he said, which actually was the truth.
Indeed. Now what did you want to talk about?
Well, Id still like to hear about your family if thats all right, he said swiftly, knowing
that he should collect as much information for Blake as he could. If you really want to hear
about them she began uncertainly.
Of course I do! Attis said earnestly.
His tone of voice worked, and she started talking about her family again. He listened
quietly, taking it all in and trying to remember as much as he could so that he would be able to
relate it to Blake later on.
Blake followed close on this guy Seymours heels as he left the house. It was clear from
the set of the mans shoulders in his tan coat that he wasnt at all happy about this situation.
Tough. The detective didnt like the look of this rat-faced person at all. His cop instincts were
telling him that this one could be their ghost. But suspecting that and having proof of it were two
different things. So whether he liked it or not, Seymour was going to find Blake right behind
him the entire time that he was at his aunts house.

The man stopped at a potting shed and turned with a black scowl for Blake. The tools
are in here, he said coldly.
So break them out and lets get to work, the detective replied.
Seymour nearly snarled, but opened the shed and began to pull gardening tools down off
of the racks on the wall inside. He handed Blake some shears and a trowel. You could work on
those bushes over there, he said, pointing to some low flowering bushes that were up against the
house. Turn the soil around them. Ill work on the flowerbeds, which need to be turned before
flowers are planted in them.
He grabbed some tools and bustled off to said flowerbeds without looking back at Blake.
The detective shrugged and went over to the bushes, which were just putting out green buds. He
knelt down and got to work, keeping a gimlet eye on the figure toiling away nearby. Blake
didnt actually mind doing yard work, although he didnt have to much since he lived in an
apartment. But growing up in a suburb of Chicago, hed worked long hours on the family yard to
earn spending money for himself.
They worked in silence, Seymour clearly fuming at his presence. While he worked and
kept an eye on Ms. Sanderbys suspicious relative, Blake thought about what had happened in
the study. It still seemed like some strange dream to him. Had he actually kissed Attis Gallagher
of all people? Had he then pulled the psychics pants down and jerked him of? It seemed insane,
and yet it had happened. He still had the faint stains on the front of his shirt and jeans to remind
him that it had been an actual event and not just a weird dream caused by something he ate.
He shook his head. Not only had it happened, he was actually contemplating having SEX
with Attis Gallagher! Ah, well. So hed finally gone completely crazy. Was this the worlds
worst insanity? He was attracted to Attis, after all. Whether he wanted to be or not, he was. The
sex part of it wasnt a real problem, anyway. It was the other parts having to deal with the
psychic when they WERENT having sex that were going to be the real hardship for him.
Sheesh. Maybe he could get a gag for the wretched little green-haired troll. Hmm. Not a bad
idea, that. Attis would look damn sexy in a gag, and furthermore Blake wouldnt have to listen to
him speak. Two good reasons to purchase one.
He smelled the scent of freshly turned soil, and it took him back to his childhood. Blake
had always loved the smells of spring. Soon new life would burst forth everywhere, and the
earth would be covered in green growing things. Birds would start singing and fluttering in the

bushes and trees as they prepared to mate. Fresh winds would blow, lifting hair and caressing
skin. The winter would be left behind as only a chill memory until fall came around again.
Spring was his favorite season, always had been.
In some ways, Attis was like the spring. Fresh, full of energy, bursting with life. Maybe
thats why he liked the psychic in spite of himself. It was as good an explanation as any. Blake
shook his head silently at his own rather sappy thoughts, thrusting the trowel into the dirt with
some force. Thats the effect that Attis Gallagher had on him. Turned him mushy. Especially in
the head. It wouldnt surprise him if he started to bounce around chirping over everything and
being far too happy for his own good or anyone elses. He had to resist that deranged
munchkin, or he might as well shoot himself in the head. He simply wouldnt be able to stand
himself that way.
Still, perhaps he could corrupt Attis instead, he thought with a wicked little smile about
the discreet groping hed done in the sitting room. He wanted to laugh as he remembered the
look on the psychics face. Attis hadnt been able to say anything, and had been practically
squirming out of his ski pants. That had been fun. A little payback for all of the annoyances that
Attis Gallagher visited on him on a regular basis. And a pleasurable payback, at that.
A glance at Seymour showed the other man still working away, and from the scowl on
his thin face he was probably imagining that the trowel he held was being stabbed into Blakes
face instead of the soil. The detective wanted to smirk. He liked discomfiting twerps like this
guy. Hed do it as much as he could while they were here at Ms. Sanderbys house. If he could
upset this Seymour guy enough, who knew what the creep might reveal?

11
Lunch was tense. Seymour kept glaring alternately at Blake and Attis, eating his food in
fuming silence. The psychic was chattering away with Ms. Sanderby, seemingly oblivious to the
dark stares he was receiving. Blake ate his food and returned look for look, letting the nephew
know that everything he did was being noticed. The detective wished he were packing his gun,
because if this shit head was the one who was pretending to the be the ghost haunting the old
lady, then most likely hed tried to run Attis down in the Safeway parking lot as well. Rage

swelled in him whenever he had this thought, and he eyed Seymours chicken neck hungrily. He
was imagining how nice it would feel to put his hands around it and choke the bastard.
Of course he couldnt actually do that, not without hard proof that it was the nephew
doing all of this. And so far he hadnt really found any. Blake scowled at this thought. If the
nephew were haunting the place, he was covering his tracks well. He hadnt left any evidence
behind for the detective to find. Hed have to come at this from another direction altogether.
There was only one thing he could think to do stakeout. Hed have to start staking out the
house every night until he could catch the ghost in the act. To do that and not die of sleep
deprivation, hed have to take some of the vacation time he had coming to him. He knew that
Lewis would be surprised when he did so, since Blake NEVER went on vacation.
He would have pulled his partner into this as well, but since he was doing this on his own
time he felt that he couldnt ask Lewis to give up sleep and his free time to stake the house out.
And there was no way in hell that he was going to tell Attis about this. The little pest would
probably want to come and do the stakeout with him, and the thought of being trapped in his car
with the psychic for hours on end made Blake shudder in horror. He really would end up killing
Attis himself if that happened. That was not something he really wanted to do, not now when he
was contemplating having sex with the green-haired troll. Blake wasnt into necrophilia.
Hed simply wait until the psychic was asleep tonight on his couch before sneaking out to
start the stakeout. He frowned down at his chicken breast at this thought, realizing that he
wouldnt be able to have sex all night with Attis like he would have wanted to. The things he
gave up in the name of justicegeez. When he caught this ghost, he was going to beat the living
daylights out of the faux specter. Payback for making him lose out on the all-night sex marathon
that hed REALLY been looking forward to.
*
Finally lunch was over. Blake decided that they should leave now, just in case Seymour
was the ghost. He wanted the nasty creep to relax and feel that he was safe, or otherwise hed
skip out on haunting the house tonight and for who knew how long to come. So he rose to his
feet and looked at Ms. Sanderby across the table. It was really nice of you to have us, Maam,
he told her. But Attis and I have to go now. We have touhhgo and collate the data we
collected today. Hopefully well have some results for you soon, he told her.
Her face fell. Do you really have to go? she said, looking unhappy.

Attis gave her a compassionate look, and then turned a pair of begging eyes on the
detective. Cant we stay, Blake? he pleaded.
Im sorry, but we cant. We really have some important business to attend to, Blake
replied smoothly.
Seymour perked up. Aunt Gladys, Ill still be here with you to keep you company after
thesegentlemenleave, he said with a glower at the psychic and the cop.
Thats true, she said with a feeble smile. Youre so good to me, Seymour. If you
really must leave, I wont try to stop you. Thank you for coming again today Mr. Gallagher,
Detective Marsh.
Thank you for having us, Ms. Sanderby, Attis piped up. And well do everything we
can to help you with your problem. You can count on us.
She smiled at him. I know you will, Mr. Gallagher. Im counting on you.
Come on, Attis, or well be late, Blake said, taking the psychics arm and genteelly
towing him toward the door.
Late for what, Blake? the green haired terror asked in puzzlement.
Our appointment, Blake replied calmly. He opened the door and handed Attis the thing
that laughably passed as a coat for him. The psychic shrugged into it, though he still looked
baffled. Blake rolled his eyes a little as he escorted Attis out the door to his car.
Once they were settled in the Mustang, Attis turned to him and asked again: What are
we late for, Blake? What appointment?
There is no appointment, Attis, the detective said impatiently as he started the motor. I
just wanted to get us out of there so we dont put the nephew on alert. If he is the ghost, hes
going to stop his haunting activities if he thinks we might be onto him. He knows Im suspicious
of him, but if he thinks that thats all he wont stop pulling all of these stunts on Ms. Sanderby. If
he is the ghost, and he stops because hes wary, then who knows how long it will be before we
can catch him. And remember, Attis he might be the guy who tried to run you down in the
Safeway parking lot too. So he could be a potential murderer. And if he is, he might just decide
to stop haunting the old gal and just finish her off quickly instead.
Attis looked alarmed. Do you really think so?! We cant leave her alone with him,
Blake!

Blake sighed. Shes surrounded by people during the day, Attis. Hes not going to try to
bump her off with the staff in the house. Stop worrying so much.
But what about tonight! Whatll we do?! the psychic demanded, his brows crinkling
with worry.
Ill take care of it, Attis. Nobodys going to bump Ms. Sanderby off, I promise. You
trust me, dont you? he asked.
Yes, Attis replied simply, the faith of a small child in his voice.
Well then, believe me when I say that Ill take care of it. Okay?
Okay, Blake. I know youll protect Ms. Sanderby just like you did me, Attis said
earnestly.
His words made Blake feel a bit odd. Attis was looking at him like he was a superhero.
He wasnt used to that, or how to feel about it. He turned his attention back to the road for the
drive to his apartment, silence falling between them. But it was somehow a good silence, a
comfortable silence.

*****
Attis tripped into the apartment and went straight over to check on his babies. He bent
over the cage, and Blake got a very good view of his tight little ass in those damn rainbow
striped ski pants. He took a deep breath, his body reacting sharply to the sight. He closed the
door behind him, an evil little smile flickering over his mouth. Then he walked slowly and
silently over to where the psychic was bent over the cage, positioning himself just behind Attiss
slender form. Blake bent forward and set his arms on the table, effectively caging Attis. The
psychic gasped when he felt Blakes larger body press against his own.
I like you in this position, Attis, he growled softly, bending his head to lick lightly at
the back of the smaller mans neck.
Oh, Attis said breathily. He could feel something hard pressing against his backside,
and a hand was gliding around to close over the crotch of the ski pants. Bllaaaaake.
A warm mouth began to suckle at his ear, and he shivered as Blakes big hand caressed
him with a gentle but firm pressure. His legs were threatening to buckle out from under him.
The detective spoke in his ear. Does this feel good, Attis? Me touching you?

Yeess, he moaned in reply, his legs quivering as Blake stroked his stiffening penis
expertly.
Great. Because Im going to touch you a lot more. If youll let me, that is, Blake
purred, effectively getting rid of any resistance with his touches and kisses. Attis couldnt have
said no if his life had depended on it. Will you let me, Attis? he asked in a low, throaty voice.
A nod of the green head, as Attis couldnt quite speak properly at the moment. A chuckle,
then Blake picked him up bodily and carried him over to the nearest available soft surface i.e.
the couch. Attis looked up at him as the bigger male laid him down on it. The hunger he saw in
Blakes steel grey eyes made him tremble. Then the detective was joining him, half leaning over
him, their mouths meeting. The psychic made small sounds of pleasure as Blake kissed him so
wonderfully once more. His tongue was coaxed out of his mouth, and he twined it with Blakes
happily.
A big hand slid down his stomach as the kiss went on, worming its way under the ski
pants once more. He cried out into Blakes mouth as fingers made their way under the
waistband of his briefs and found his cock again. Shallow strokes were lovingly applied as
Blake continued to teach him how to kiss. Attiss hips lifted desperately, and he moaned so loud
that it was a good thing that Blakes mouth was muffling his. Then the detective pulled back just
enough to begin to suck on his kiss swollen lower lip, nipping at it lightly.
Blake, he gasped as those insouciant fingers made him feel good. Oh, yes!
A feral smile passed over Blakes mouth. Then he was licking at the side of Attiss neck,
his tongue tracing patterns over the pale skin. His hand left the psychics groin, which might
have made Attis protest except for the fact that it began to push his ski pants and briefs off of
his hips altogether. Docilely he lifted his hips to help, and soon the pants and underwear were
around his knees. His cock twitched and jerked in the open air, wanting more of that magic
touch. And soon Blake gave it to him, curling his fingers loosely around Attiss erection.
Blake nuzzled at his collarbone above the top edge of his shirt. He nibbled at the
protruding bone lightly, making Attis whimper as he was worked over at both ends. Blakes
fingertips rubbed over the tip of his cock, causing him to jerk and flail. I could make you come
again like this, Blake said against his skin. But I think well try something else this time.
Before Attis could gather his wits enough to ask when the detective meant, Blake slid
away. His fingers also left, and the psychic made a sound of protest before the taller man slid off

the couch and onto his knees. Blake pushed up his shirt and kissed his stomach, as Attis sat up a
bit on his elbows. W-What are you? he began, but before he could finish the question the
detective laughed against his delicate skin and moved his mouthlower.
Agghh! Attis shrilled, his eyes bugging out of his head as Blake reached his groin and
enveloped his cock in warm, moist heat.
The psychic shook and cried out as Blake began to suck at him. Oh! Hed never
experienced anything so good before in his entire life! Blake, he whimpered, Oh, Blake!
The detective drove down, taking more of him in. A tongue was tracing the length of him
in a swirling motion. Attis keened, his head going back as he pushed his hips up to get more of
this sensation. His legs spread instinctively as he offered himself in helpless ecstasy to the other
man. Blakes hands stroked his thighs, then one of them lifted to encase his balls in a light grip,
cradling them. He rubbed at the sac, one finger sliding down to find the psychics perineum. A
loud scream from over his head told him how much Attis liked this. Blake grinned around his
mouthful of cock, then pursed his lips and sucked harshly.
Attis came, shuddering and writhing, shooting into Blakes mouth. He fell back on the
couch panting, unable to move. The detective lifted his head, looking decidedly smug as he
cleaned his lips off with his tongue. Attiss eyes were glazed, his face bright red. His chest
heaved brokenly. Blake smoothed his hand over the smaller mans stomach. Did you like those
touches, Attis? he asked as his fingers skimmed over the sweating skin.
The psychic blinked up at him, his mind finally returning to reality. It wasreally great,
Blake, he said hoarsely.
Im glad you liked it. If you dont mind, Im gonna take care of myself now, Blake
added as he reached down to free himself from the uncomfortable confines of his jeans. His dick
was rock hard and throbbing. He desperately needed to come.
Attis lifted himself on his elbows and stared down at Blakes erection, seeing another
mans hard cock for the first time in his life. The detective moaned a little, his fingers curling
around his penis as he grimaced with pleasure. He felt his breath come short as the other man
began to stroke himself swiftly. Attis felt a sudden urge to touch Blake, to see what it felt like.
Would it be the same as touching his own? He reached out hesitantly with his slim hand.
Blake paused in his self pleasure when Attis reached out toward him. The interested
curiosity on the pointed face made his gut contract. He let go of himself when he realized just

what it was that Attis intended to do. Then a warm little hand closed over his cock, making him
grit his teeth. Attis seemed to be holding his breath as he tentatively moved his hand in imitation
of the way that Blake had been touching himself.
The detective groaned softly, his eyes fastened on the sight of Attis Gallagher jerking him
off. The psychic seemed enthralled, his face wearing an absorbed look as he moved his hand
slowly the length of Blakes cock. Those big hazel eyes flashed to his face briefly. Do you like
these touches, Blake? he asked in an innocent imitation of his earlier question, nearly making
Blake blow his load right then and there.
Yeah, he husked in answer.
Attis smiled, a sunny thing that seemed incongruous because of the fact that he was
currently masturbating Blake with his hand. He moved it faster, looking down at his task once
more. Like this? he asked, wanting to get it right.
Blake gurgled in the back of his throat as an answer, as he could feel that he was about to
come. Attis reached out with his other hand to cup Blakes balls, just as he had to the psychic a
few minutes earlier. The detective lost it, climaxing with a loud groan all over Attiss hand.
Fuck that had been amazing! The little troll had an astonishing effect on him, one which he was
looking forward to exploring more of later today. For now, though, he only leaned forward and
kissed Attis lightly in silent thanks for the pleasure that the psychic had just given him.

12
Hold still, Attis!
But Blake, it hurts!
Itll hurt less if you stay still and stop squirming. Trust me on this one.
Its too big, Blake!
Geez, you are a complainer. This is the only size Ive got, deal with it.
Oww! It hurts!
Attis, I swearjust hold still! You can move again once Im finished, okay? Then itll
feel better, I promise.
Okayjust dont move it. Thats when it hurts.

Fine. Ill keep it still. Is it starting to hurt less?

Yeah, thank you Blake.
Youre welcome. There, all done. You did all of that bitching for nothing.
Attis turned pleading eyes on the detective. Blake? Would you do one more thing for
me?
What? asked in an exasperated tone of voice.
The psychic held out his forefinger with the too-large band-aid wrapped around it.
Would you kiss it and make it all better?
Grim silence. Then: You have got to be shitting me. You want me to kiss your boo boo?
What are you, five? Well you look like youre five, so
Attis pouted. Blake, thats mean! Its justwhat my mom used to do when I got a cut,
thats all. I miss her, he added sadly, his eyes shimmering with tears.
Blake felt like a heel. He reached out and cradled the wounded digit, lifting it to his
mouth lightly. There, he said. All better. Anyway, thanks for making me dinner. You just
have to stay away from my sharp knives from now on.
Attis perked up at the kiss and the thanks. That steak was just tougher to cut than I
thought it would be. Im not used to cooking meat, thats all.
I know. Youre one of those weirdo vegetarians, the cop replied dryly.
Im a vegan, and Im not a weirdo! the psychic protested huffily. I just dont happen
to think that eating our fellow creatures is a very nice thing to do.
Blake lifted a brow. Why not? Most of them wouldnt hesitate to eat me if our
circumstances were reversed, he was enjoying teasing Attis. A little payback for all the
annoyance the psychic was always making him feel.
Attis sighed. No offense, Blake, but youre a neanderthal, he said, shaking his green
head. Blake was surprised that Attis even knew a word that big. Sometimes he forgot that the
psychic wasnt a little kid or mentally retarded. It was easy to forget that around Attis.
Oh? So you think Im a cave man? Should I drag you off by the hair now, or beat you
with my club? Blake asked archly.
Attis turned faintly pink. Umm he began.
Blake chuckled. Never mind, Attis. I admit to being something of a caveman; Im a guy
after all. It goes with the territory.

Attiss brows drew together. But Im a guy, and Im not like that! he cried.
Uhh, no offense to you either, Attis, but you are NOT a guy, Blake replied. You are a
male but not a guy. There is a distinction, believe me. Guys like sports and beer and chasing tail
of either sex. We like fast cars with big engines, and we go hunting to kill and eat those animals
who you dont even believe should be eaten. Guys do NOT knit, he added drolly.
Oh. I suppose that makes sense, Attis replied.
Anyway, now that your major wound has been bandaged, can we eat? Im starving,
Blake said as his belly rumbled audibly.
Of course! Attis jumped to his feet and scurried off to begin serving the food onto two
plates. Watching him from the kitchen table, Blake sighed a little. Lewis had been right, he
mused in faint disgust. He really did need a sort of wife. There was something rather cozy and
domestic about Attis cooking for them both, and the food was better than anything hed had in a
long time.
And of course, there were the other benefits to be derived from having a wife, he
thought with a mental leer. His eyes were fastened on Attiss ass as he thought this, and he once
again cursed that damned ghost to the farthest reaches of Hell. He should be looking forward to
spending the night teaching Attis all the pleasures that could be had in bed - but instead he got to
sneak out after the psychic was asleep and go do a boring stakeout at Ms. Sanderbys house.
Bored and sexually frustrated that ghost was toast when Blake finally caught him or her.
Attis set a plate in front of him. It had mashed organic potatoes with just a touch of real
butter on them; steamed broccoli; and a steak on it. The steak was organic and very lean, but he
didnt care at the moment. He really was starving. Blake scooped up his knife and fork and went
to town as Attis sat down across from him to eat his own dinner. The detective didnt even
bother to ask just what the hell that Attis was eating. He really, really didnt want to know.
Some mysteries were better left unsolved.
Mmm, this is good, Blake remarked as he took a bite of the steak. For someone whos
never cooked meat before, you did a good job Attis.
The psychic beamed at him happily across the table. Thank you, Blake. I was really
worried that it wouldnt turn out right. Especially since I couldnt taste it to tell if it was done.
Im glad that it turned out all right after all.

Its great. I just need some steak sauce, Blake got up and went to rummage in the fridge
for the bottle of A-1 that he kept in there.
Uhh, Blake the psychic began.
Where the hell is my steak sauce? Have you seen it, Attis?
Iummmsort ofthrew it out, Attis squeaked in chagrin.
Silence. Blake froze in front of the fridge. What did you just say? his voice was
ominous when he finally spoke.
The psychic cringed. I threw it out. Its not very good for you, he began in his own
defense.
Blake took a deep breath. I am only going to say this once, Attis, he said as he turned
back around. Dont EVER throw anything of mine away again without asking me! You got
that? he glared at the green-haired terror, who was cowering in his chair.
Yes, Blake. Im really sorry, Attis said as his lower lip began to tremble again.
The cop sighed. Everyone deserves one or two vices, Attis. Steak sauce isnt that big of
one, even you have to admit that.
The psychic nodded. Youre right. I really am sorry, Blake. Ill get you some more at the
store tomorrow, he said apologetically.
Thats fine. I can eat the rest of the steak without it, Blake sat back down and began to
eat his dinner.
Attis gazed at him uncertainly across the table. After a moment, those startling steel-grey
eyes rose to meet his. Blake shook his head. Dont look so scared, Attis. I dont bite. Most of
the time, he added in a faintly sultry tone of voice. Although Im not gonna guarantee that I
wont bite you in bed.
Attiss face flamed at his words, and the slim man squirmed in his chair as his body
reacted to the insinuation in the detectives voice. Having disconcerted the little pest, Blake
returned to eating feeling a great deal of satisfaction. Attis drove him crazy all the time; now it
was his turn to return the favor. And boy was he going to enjoy himself doing so! Now he had
something to look forward to. Well, two somethings, actually. One was getting Attis into bed and
blowing his mind. The little psychic was going to be having visions when Blake got done with
him, and they werent going to be the supernatural kind either. The other was gently tormenting

Attis with his newly found desire. That was going to be almost as fun as having sex with the
green-haired troll. Almost.

After dinner, Attis did the dishes while humming to himself. Blake went out into the
living room to watch some TV and think about the stakeout. Hed called into work earlier today
to request some vacation time, taking his captain by surprise. Lewis had also been astonished
when his partner had called to inform him that Blake was going on vacation. But Lewis only
thought he was surprised now, Blake thought dryly to himself as he flipped through the channels.
Just wait until he told his partner that he was sleeping with Attis Gallagher! Talk about shock.
For now hed said nothing about the psychic at all, lest Lewis pick up on the whole ghost
situation and insist on joining Blake on the stakeouts even though he had a wife and a baby at
home. The man should be spending his time with them, not keeping Blake company on a totally
boring stakeout that wasnt even attached to a real case.
Attis came bouncing out of the kitchen and went over to the bunny cage to pet and tend to
his babies once again. Thinking about what had happened this afternoon when hed done so,
Blake was tempted to initiate something again. But he forced himself to look away from that
tempting pert little ass and back toward the television. Old ladies went to bed early,
unfortunately. His stakeout would have to start correspondingly early, so he didnt really have
time to start anything with Attis. Which annoyed the shit out of him. Oh, yeah, that phony ghost
was gonna pay. Big time.
Attis finally finished up and came over to plop down next to him. His hazel eyes looked
at the screen, which was showing a cop drama. He glanced at Blake next. Do you watch cop
shows, Blake? he asked curiously. Dont you find them kind of unrealistic?
Very unrealistic, most of the time, he replied. For one thing, they never show the
hundreds of hours a year we spend just doing paperwork. Sometimes I feel like a file clerk, I
swear. Reports in triplicate for everything. Writing up interviews. You name it, we have to put it
down on paper. I could drown in the red tape, Im telling you.
That must be frustrating, Attis agreed sympathetically. When all you want to do is go
out and catch the bad guys.
Yeah, well, real life is never that simple, Blake replied with a shrug. I try not to let it
bother me.

Attis fiddled with the fringe on the knitted blanket that he slept under at night(Blake was
pretty sure that hed made it himself). I know what you mean, he replied, making the cop
glance at him in surprise. Seeing his expression, the psychic sighed. I wanted to go to college
and become an environmental lawyer. But it just didnt work out, he added as Blakes brows
shot up in astonishment.
A lawyer? Now thats not something I can see you becoming, Attis, he remarked.
Well I wanted to help save the environment. And I knew one of the best ways was to get
into environmental law. I could force companies to comply with the law, could drown them in
red tape, he went on with a crooked smile at Blake to acknowledge his earlier words, Until
they did what was right rather than just what would get them the most profit. But he reached
up to touch his head, I couldnt study law or anything else that required me to be out in public
all the time. I dont just have visions at night, you see. Can you imagine what would have
happened if Id been in a courtroom arguing a case and I had a vision? Theyd drag me off to a
nut house. Or just fire me for being a kook, either one. So my dream died when I realized that
these visions were a permanent addition to my life.
Blake felt a spurt of compassion run through him, something hed never have thought
that hed feel for Attis Gallagher before this. He couldnt imagine having something happen that
would have destroyed his wish to be a cop; especially something that made the rest of the world
think that you were a nut job or a freak when you couldnt help what was happening to you. Yet
Attis had never let his so-called gift get him down. He went right on dancing through life
blithely, somehow remaining a happy soul despite the many drawbacks to being an actual
psychic. While he still has some trouble believing it, Blake Marsh realized in that moment that
he rather respected Attis Gallagher.
Im sorry, Attis, he said abruptly.
The psychic blinked up at him. Dont be, Blake. I believe that the universe sends us
what were meant to have. Fate didnt want me to be a lawyer, it wanted me to be psychic. So
thats what I am. And Im never going to feel sorry for myself or sit around thinking about
what-might-have-been, because all that would do was depress me for no gain. I try to look on
the bright side, he went on with a smile.
That you do, Blake agreed silently. That you do, Attis.

13
Later Blake glided out of his bedroom and toward the front door. Thank God that Attis
was a fairly sound sleeper. The green haired terror was snoring lightly on the couch, only his
head sticking out from under the blanket. The cop saw the two bunnies looking at him from their
cage as he moved soft-footed toward his front door. He pulled out his car keys as he eased the
door open. With a last look at the man slumbering on his couch, the cop left his apartment and
closed the door quietly behind himself.
Blake sighed, leaning back in the not-too-comfortable bucket seat of his Mustang. He
was four hours into his vigil, and he was bored out of his skull. Hed always hated stakeouts; he
had no patience for them. He couldnt even play his radio, since he needed to be able to hear
noises, plus hed run his batteries down if he ran it for too long with the engine turned off. All
he could do was sip the black coffee hed bought on his way over here as he scowled at the
darkened house. He didnt really expect anything to happen this first night, so this was probably
going to be a waste of time anyway. Which meant that hed be grumpy and exhausted tomorrow
morning with nothing to show for it.
He thought idly about what he was going to tell Attis about why he was drop-dead tired
after spending the night sleeping in his bed. The psychic had turned out to be much quicker and
less dumb than Blake had given him credit for; hed have to come up with a plausible excuse.
Which wouldnt be easy when he was off his head from lack of sleep. He rubbed at his face,
cursing this damn specter in his head as he did so. This person was ruining his life, and Blake
definitely intended to return the favor when he caught the sucker.
He fought not to close his eyes, squirming a bit. His thoughts went to Attis, currently
snoring on his couch. He imagined that the green hair was tousled by now, and that the little
psychics skin was faintly pink from his slumbers. He remembered the way that Attis had tasted
in his mouth this afternoon; it had been slightly different than any other guy hed ever blown,
probably because Attis was a vegan. He thought of the loud cries hed drawn from Attiss throat
as the psychic had thrashed and wailed and come in his mouth.
Damn, thinking of that incident had been a very bad idea. Now he was REALLY
uncomfortable. He considered unzipping his jeans and letting his erection fly free, but knew that
he couldnt. In the off chance something did happen, he couldnt move with his cock waving

around in the open air. He groaned, willing his hard-on to subside. It throbbed sullenly under the
stiff fabric, reminding him implacably that he should be home fucking Attis right now instead of
wasting his time doing this. His dick was not happy with him, not happy at all.
Blake gritted his teeth. This was going to be a long, long night. He felt like beating his
head against the steering wheel out of sheer frustration. But just as he was moving a bit again his
eyes caught movement over on the lawn near the corner of Ms. Sanderbys house. Blake froze,
sitting as still as a statue as his steel-grey eyes narrowed slightly. Had he imagined that, or was
something really moving over by the house? After a few moments, he saw it again. A dark figure
was slinking slowly along the wall of the house toward the wide door. His lips lifted in a slight,
terrible smile, and Blake prepared to get out of the Mustang and follow the shadowy figure as
soon as it turned the corner. The idiot had actually decided to come back and cause more damage
on the night after a cop had been to the house! That was incredibly stupid, and he was going to
take advantage of it to catch this bastard and beat the living daylights out of him before arrested
his ass. It looked like God loved him after all.
The intruder rounded the house, and Blake slid out of his Mustang silently. He had worn
black clothing tonight, so he knew he didnt show up at all as he moved soft-footed across the
lawn toward the side door. He heard a low creak as it was opened and someone entered the
house. Not a shock that it was someone who had access to the house. Hed known all along that
it couldnt be a random stranger invading Ms. Sanderbys house every night to pretend to haunt
her. Blake gave it a moment, and then eased over to the door himself. He pulled his gun from its
holster under his arm and cocked it. Then he reached out with his free hand and tried the knob.
Sure enough, whoever had gone in hadnt bothered to lock it after himself.
Blake turned the handle very slowly, and then eased the door open. There was no one
behind it; whoever had entered the house had gone further in. He stepped into the small hallway
and moved slowly and carefully along toward what he knew was the kitchen and the laundry
room. He kept his ears open for every noise, trying to track where the intruder had gone. But he
heard nothing, and soon arrived at the archway that opened up into the large front foyer. Blake
stopped there and peered out into the dimly light area, his head turning as he searched for any
signs of movement.
There! He saw someone exit from the sitting room and glide across the foyer toward the
stairs that led upward. Blake heard the clink of tools in a bag this person was carrying in one

hand. Just before whoever it was reached the stairs, the cop stepped out and charged across the
foyer with his gun raised. Freeze! he barked, causing the intruder to startle and whip around
toward him.
Freeze, now, or I will be happy to put a bullet in you, Blake barked, meaning it. He was
pretty pissed about this ghost ruining his plans for the evening.
Hands jerked into the air, and he saw eyes bulging out of a rat-like face. Hey, Seymour,
he purred. What are you doing here at this time of the night? Checking on your aunt? What a
good little nephew you are.
Seymour began to stutter an explanation, but Blake wasnt the least bit interested. Keep
those hands up, Seymour, or youre going to wish that you had, he growled as he reached for
his handcuffs.
The other man did so, staring at Blake in terror. The detective found his cuffs and began
to extract them one-handed. Neither he nor Seymour noticed movement behind them, as
someone began to walk toward Blake down the hallway from the direction of the kitchen. And
the dim light from a single lamp caught the glint off of the blade of a butcher knife held in one
hand
*****
Attis awoke with a scream of agony and terror. Blake! he shrieked, sitting straight up
on the couch. Sweat streamed down his face as he scrambled off the couch, running down the
hallway toward the detectives bedroom. He threw open the door and stood there panting, staring
wide-eyed at the empty bed. Nooo, he moaned in horror. Oh, no!
He whirled and ran back into the living room, grabbing his pants on his way toward the
door. The bunnies jumped in their cage as the psychic jammed his legs into the ski pants and
shoved his feet into his shoes. His breath sawed in his chest, and his eyes were huge. Oh God,
please! he begged desperately in his head as he jerked open the door of the apartment. Please
let me get there in time! You gave me this ability so that I could help others, so please let me be
able to help myself! Then he darted out to the door toward his car, because Attis Gallagher
knew that if he didnt get to Ms. Sanderbys house in time, then Blake Marsh was going to die.
Blake kept the gun pointed at Seymour and gestured with it. Come on over here, he
told the other man.

The nephew began to move toward him reluctantly, nearly shuffling across the floor.
Blake watched him impatiently, just wanting this to be over so he could drag the skinny bastard
down to the station and get rid of him. Maybe hed get a rap or two across the skull of the ghost
while he was at it. Hed certainly enjoy that. He could think of a few other things that hed like
to do to Seymour that wouldnt show, too. But theyd be painful, oh yes. Dealing out a little
suffering would make him feel better about his wasted night and having to deal with this
annoying creature in the first place.
Seymour was a few steps away from him now. Blake started to take one forward as
well, and then some instinct made him start to whirl around. There was someone behind him! His
gun came up, but he was too late

*****
There was a scream that would have done an opera diva proud, and a green-haired demon
fell on the person whod been lunging toward Blake with a kitchen knife. There was another
shriek from the victim as Attiss skinny but surprisingly strong arms beat at hisno, her!
Shoulders and head mercilessly. You wont hurt Blake! shrilled the psychic in outraged tones,
and another scream was torn from the woman as the furious green-haired troll sank his teeth in
somewhere sensitive.
Blake gaped at this scuffle, then whirled around again as Seymour tried to slither away in
the furor. Ah, ah, ah! he cried. Where do you think youre going, Seymour? Get your skinny
ass back over here before I turn you into a piece of Swiss cheese.
The nephew slunk over and Blake cuffed him, making him whimper as the cop got
rougher than he actually needed to. When he was taken care of, Blake turned back to where Attis
was still riding the butcher knife wielding intruder like a rodeo cowboy on the back of a bucking
bronco. The detective grinned suddenly. Trust his faithful little terror to show up and cause
trouble! He supposed he should break this up, but he was enjoying the whole show too much.
He certainly didnt want to save the woman whod been sneaking up on him with the intention of
ventilating him with that knife. Let her have a little bit more of Hurricane Attis before he made
the psychic break it off.

After a few minutes more of shrieking and flailing (on both the parts of Attis and the
person he was assailing), Blake decided that enough was enough. He filled his lungs and yelled:
Hey, Attis! Stop!
The psychic froze atop the woman, his head turning as he looked at the detective.
Blake? he said, sounding almost confused.
Yeah. Why dont you jump off that woman so that I can arrest her? Youve had your
fun.
Oh, the psychic seemed to come awake for the first time. Uh he slid down to the
floor, the woman staggering as he did so.
Blake pointed his gun at her, warning: Dont move. I wont hesitate to do to you what
you were going to do to me. You got that, lady?
She nodded, fear clearly written on her face. Attis stumbled away from her, and then
turned to look at the person that hed jumped on. Mrs. Winger? he said in a choked,
disbelieving voice.
The housekeeper only looked at him mutely as the psychic gasped and his face twisted in
pain. Oh, Mrs. Winger, how could you? Attis whimpered sadly. How could you be so cruel
to Ms. Sanderby? And try to kill Blake? How could you be so horrible?
His narrow shoulders slumped dejectedly, and Blake sighed as he walked over and put
his hand on one of them. Dont let it get to you, Attis. Not everyone is a good person.
The psychic sniffled, looking up into his face. Oh, Blake, Im so glad she didnt kill
you, he whispered, then threw his skinny arms around Blakes waist and buried his face in the
detectives side.
He stroked the green hair. She would have if you hadnt showed up, Attis, he
remarked. You saved my life.
I had a vision, Attis replied against his shirt. I saw youI saw you die he said in a
shaking voice.
Ah. I see. Blakes voice was compassionate. Im sorry you had to see that, Attis.
Im not! the psychic nearly yelled. Otherwise I wouldnt have been able to save you!
he pulled back to give Blake a rather indignant look, which made the detective chuckle a bit.
Okay, he tousled the green locks even more. Go and call the cops, would you Attis?
Ill watch these two, he indicated the housekeeper and Seymour.

All right, Blake! Attis cried, running off to use the phone on the table near the door.

14
Lewis was glaring at him. Blake met his partners gimlet stare in an unperturbed manner.
I swear, Blake, youre lucky I dont shoot you somewhere tender for not telling me what was
going on, he growled.
Blake shrugged. Im sorry, Lew, but I didnt except something like this going in. I just
expected to catch Attiss ghost for him and to help out that old lady. How the hell could I have
known that there were two of them in on it? Let alone the trusted housekeeper who's worked for
Ms. Sanderby for over a decade?
Lewis folded his arms over his chest. Uh huh. Im still not happy with you, Blake. Its
gonna be awhile before I let you off the hook for this one, buddy.
Blake grinned suddenly. Okay, I can accept that. Hell, the only reason I dont have a
hole in my chest is because of Attiss vision.
Lewis shook his head. I cant believe that either. You actually had Attis Gallagher
sleeping on your couch?
I had to, Lew, since somebody tried to kill him. Turns out it was the housekeeper. She
tried to run Attis down when Seymour was here fawning over his aunt. That woman is amazingly
psychotic.
I agree on that. So thats it? Hes just sleeping on your couch, nothing else? Lewis
looked art him keenly.
Blake sighed but decided to get it over with. No, thats not all. Were gonna be sleeping
together real soon.
Lewiss jaw dropped. Seriously?! he almost yelled.
Blake winced. Yeah, he replied in resignation, knowing that hed never hear the end of
Lewiss I told you sos.
Wow. The world really is coming to an end, Lewis commented in disbelief. He glanced
over at the sitting room, where Attis was comforting Ms. Sanderby. The poor old lady was
heartbroken over not only her nephews perfidy but at her housekeepers as well. Apparently
theyd concocted the scheme to either drive her out of her house or to scare her to death outright.

Theyd figured that if she had to leave her house shed have gone downhill and died anyway.
Either way both meant to profit from the terms of her will, which left both of them generous
amounts of cash (and Seymour the house).
Attis was patting the old ladys arm, and she was trying to conjure up a smile for him.
Lewis laughed suddenly. I really think that youve gotten exactly what you deserve, Blake, he
remarked. You lucky, lucky bastard.

*****
It was dawn by the time that Blake and Attis departed Ms. Sanderbys house together.
The old lady had been put to bed by Attis and her cook, whod come at an urgent call from the
psychic. She had been given a mild sedative and was sleeping soundly. Her nefarious nephew
and psycho housekeeper had been dragged off to the clink hours ago, where theyd be for a long
time to come. Especially Mrs. Winger, since shed tried to off both Attis and Blake.
Seeing how tired and drained his little green-haired terror looked, Blake steered him
toward the Mustang. Get in, Attis, he told the psychic firmly. Well come and get your car
later, and you can check on Ms. Sanderby again too.
Okay, the psychic agreed wearily, so tired that he wasnt going to fight Blakes
suggestion at all.
The detective got him strapped in and then went around to the drivers side. He started
the engine and pulled out of the driveway, glancing over at Attis as he did so. The other man was
slumped in his seat, knuckling childishly at his eyes and looking both exhausted and drawn. Hed
had a very trying, emotional night, Blake thought sympathetically. Poor Attis. He reached out
and covered one of the psychics hands with his own. Its all right, Attis, he said quietly.
Everythings fine now.
Attis sighed, his other hand coming up to close tightly over the top of Blakes. I
know, he said wearily. Its justI was so scared.
Yeah, I can understand that, the detective replied. But you dont have to be scared
now. You saved my life, Attis - you and your visions.
The psychic shuddered faintly. Yes, he said, his voice breaking a little. But I saw you
dieand I thought Id be too late

Well you werent. You got there just in time. Attis Gallagher to the rescue, he said with
a faint smile.
To his chagrin, the psychic began to cry. I-Im sorry, Blake, he sniffled. I c-cant help
it!
I know, Blake replied, driving slowly as one of his hands was still trapped between
Attiss. Just let it out. Its okay.
With permission to break down, Attis really went to town. He bawled his eyes out, his
body shaking. Blake just let him hold his hand and get it out, understanding that Attis was just
letting off steam after his horrible vision and the excitement of the night. The psychic finally
calmed down as Blake turned onto his street. His eyes were swollen and red from crying, and
Blake guessed that he had a doozy of a headache. "Home at last, he remarked as he pulled into
his space.
Attis got out of the car a bit more slowly than normal, wiping at his wet eyes with his
hands. Blake locked the car and came around to take his arm. I think we both need to get some
shut-eye, he told the psychic as they stated for his apartment. Its been a long night. Attis
nodded a little. He followed Blake tamely into the apartment, moving toward the couch like an
automaton.
Attis, Blake stopped him in his tracks and he looked over his shoulder at the detective
questioningly.
Blake hesitated, then said: Come and sleep in my bed with me.
Attis stared at him in surprise, but the detective merely jerked his head toward the
hallway leading to his bedroom. Come on, he said, and the psychic came with him in a kind of
wondering haze. Inside the bedroom, Blake patted Attiss hip. Take those off, he remarked,
referring to the rainbow striped ski pants.
The psychic slipped out of them, leaving him clad only in his over-long nightshirt and
whatever was under it. Blake divested himself of his own clothing, hearing a gasp when he
casually stepped out of his jeans and underwear so that he was stark naked. Youll have to get
used to it, Attis, he said rather acerbically as he went over to retrieve the pair of sweat pants that
he normally wore to bed. If were going to start having sex together, youll see me naked lots of
times. And vice versa, he added as he pulled on the pants.

He turned to look at Attis, who was still a little wide-eyed. I-I know that, Blake, he
said softly. Its just
Youre not used to it, I know, the detective replied. Well now that Ive covered part of
my body, lets go to bed. Im so tired my heads about to fall off.
Attis nodded, padding around to the side of the bed. Blake pulled back the covers and
gestured for him to climb in. Then he moved around and got in on the other side, settling under
the covers with a weary sigh of pleasure. He looked at his bed mate, who was scooched almost to
the edge of the bed. Geez, Attis, I wont bite, he remarked sardonically. You can come closer,
you know.
Attis stared at him, then wriggled across the bed toward him. Blake waited until he was
within arms reach, then grabbed his skinny arms and pulled him closer. Attis gasped again as he
found himself up against the detectives bare chest. There, thats better, Blake remarked, as
Attis stayed still like a small animal afraid that the hungry hawk would spot him if he moved.
Blake closed his eyes and remained still, waiting for the psychic to relax in his grip. If
they were going to be lovers, Attis would have to get used to being touched and being intimate
with another person. This was actually a better way than for them to start having sex here and
now. Besides, he really was exhausted. And he knew that Attis was in an even worse state after
his emotional roller coaster of a night.
He heard a soft sigh, and the warm breath on his bare skin made his cock become half
hard despite his weariness. But when he looked down, he saw that Attiss eyes had closed. The
green head was resting against his chest. The psychic looked like a trusting kitten as he fell into a
deep sleep in Blakes arms. The detective ran a hand down Attiss back lightly, setting his hand
at the small of it. Then he closed his own eyes again and went to sleep himself, still holding Attis
close.

15
Late afternoon sunlight woke Blake. He groaned a bit as a bright shaft of it stabbed him
in the eyes. He squinted against it, lifting his head. Attis was still sound asleep, having cuddled
even closer to him as they slept. One of Attiss arms was around his waist, the other curled up

against his chest. He was utterly adorable this way, with his pink mouth open as he breathed and
his cheeks flushed from sleep. Blake felt a lance of arousal go through him at the sight.
His arm was half numb from being under the psychics body, but he still managed to
move it down so that his fingers were cupping one round little buttock. He squeezed it a bit,
feeling its weight and shape. Attis moaned in his sleep, but didnt wake up. Blakes other hand
slid down to the psychics narrow hip, his fingers stroking the fabric of the long shirt as he began
to ruck it slowly upward. There was something extremely naughty and sexy about his touching
Attis while the other man slept, unaware of what he was doing. Blake was thoroughly enjoying
himself.
He used the hand trapped under Attis to pull the shirt up on the other side, and soon it
was up around Attiss chest. Blake pushed the blankets back so that he could look his fill, taking
his own sweet time. He licked his lips a little when he saw that Attis wasnt wearing any
underwear. Well, most guys didnt wear it to bed. Attiss skin was smooth and soft, and his slim
body was very boyish looking. Blake might have been creeped out about this except for two
things that reassured him that Attis was an adult after all. One was the size of the cock resting
flaccid on the psychics thigh, and the balls that had clearly dropped. And the other was a soft
trail of golden-brown hair that started just above Attiss belly button and thickened as it ran
down his stomach and met the hair at his groin. This treasure trail was charming and adorable,
but it also meant that Attis was a full-grown adult (well sort of, anyway) instead of the twelveyear old that he usually resembled.
Blake let his eyes roam, taking in two rosy little nipples and that really cute innie belly
button. Then he decided to let his fingers do the walking, sliding his hand over the hip it was
resting on and sending it out over the unexplored skin of Attiss belly and chest. The psychic
stirred a little and moaned breathily, but still didnt wake up. He was a heavy sleeper, something
that pleased Blake to no end. His thumb rubbed over one of those nipples, bringing it to a peak.
Attis moaned and wiggled, his back arching. The detective pinched at the same nipple lightly,
then sent his hand to do the same to the other. Attis was flushing even more, his mouth open as
he began to pant. Blake imagined that he was having one hell of a good dream right now.
He found the treasure trail and followed it down the quivering muscles of Attiss
abdomen. The psychics narrow hips were jerking a bit, and his cock was slowly thickening.
Blake was happy to help that along, running his fingers down the shaft, then rubbing his

fingertips over the sensitive tip. It had begun to leak precum, which he gathered up and used as
lubrication as he began to stroke it the rest of the way to erection.
Bllaaaaake moaned the sleeping Attis, and the detective grinned to realize that he
had entered Attiss erotic dream.
He decided that hed had enough of going this alone. His own dick was as hard as a rock
in his sweat pants. Blake scooted backward a bit and wormed his arm out from under Attis. Then
he positioned himself so that he could bend his head and kiss the psychic awake, his lips moving
firmly over Attiss. His hand cupped the back of the green head, and his tongue darted out into
that open pink mouth to flicker and rub over everything within. It didnt take long for those hazel
eyes to pop open, and Attis made a small sound against his mouth as he came awake enough to
realize that Blake was kissing him.
He lifted his head. Good afternoon, Attis, he husked in amusement as the psychic
blinked up at him.
Blake? What are you? he broke off as he felt that his erection was pressed against
Blakes lower chest, and he blushed rosily.
Blake chuckle as he undulated his body enough that Attiss cock slid sensually over his
skin. That should be obvious, he remarked.
Oh. B-But Attis started to protest, but lost all of his breath as a hand curled over him
and stroked the length of him once.
Blake rolled him onto his back before Attis could work up another protest. Ive been
waiting to do this, Attis, he purred, and before the psychic could ask him what he meant Blake
slid down the bed a bit and began to show him.
Ahh! Attis cried, his body arching as Blakes mouth began to move over his skin. A
tongue darted out to lazily lick at his skin, tasting its sweet saltiness. Oh, Blake!
Thats it, call my name, the detective muttered against his skin before turning his
attention back to tasting every inch of the soft pale skin.
Attis quivered and writhed as Blakes mouth began to assault his nipples tenderly. His
hands spasmed, then flew up to bury themselves in Blakes short dark hair. Cries burst from his
mouth as the detective nibbled at a rucked nub, then suckled at it like a baby. Then Blake was
going down, down, licking at the treasure trail and nuzzling at the soft hair. Blake was on all
fours above him, half lowering himself so that he could lap at the soft skin of Attiss lower belly.

The psychic stared up at him out of dazed eyes, completely out of it already from Blakes
touches and kisses.
Hmm, I wonder what I should do next? Blake growled, his breath hitting the twitching
cock between Attiss thighs and making the psychic yelp and jerk.
Oooh, ooo, Attis moaned incoherently.
Blake chuckled and nosed at the leaking tip before he licked at it in a long lap. He
winced as fingers gripped his hair pretty tightly, but that didnt stop him from sucking Attis into
his mouth and going to town. His own fingers stroked at the psychics balls and then wormed
their way down between his thighs, seeking the pretty pink rosebud nestling there. He heard a
loud squeak when his fingertips made contact, but he simply increased the pressure of his mouth
on Attiss cock and made the other man completely forget where his hand was.
Blake lifted his mouth away from Attis briefly so that he could run his fingertips over the
head and gather up more precum. He rubbed the nearly clear fluid into his skin, then sank down
on the cock once more even as his hand went back down between Attiss legs. He pushed a
fingertip into the psychics tight body, but what was happening at his groin was completely
distracting Attis from this invasion into his body. Blake moved his finger in-and-out slowly,
loving the feel of the hot tight space and thinking with pleasure of what it would be like when he
finally slid his cock in there instead. Attis was trembling. He was going to come, his whole body
drawing up
Blake! he wailed as he came into the detectives mouth in a surge. Blake sucked the
last of his semen from him even as he used Attiss total emersion in his orgasm to shove his
finger to the second knuckle inside of the psychics slim body.
He licked the last traces away from the head as Attis fell back on the bed in a limp mass.
Blake smirked triumphantly as he lifted his head to look into Attiss face. It was beet red and
limned with sweat, his mouth open as he panted for any kind of breath. He never stopped the
movement of his finger while Attis was recovering, and he managed to insert another one when
he felt Attis loosen up a little. He curled his fingers inside of Attis, twisting them a bit. He was
rewarded with a moan, and his eyes gleamed as he suddenly pulled his fingers free and began to
roll Attis over onto his stomach.
Wha? he heard Attis mumble, but he ignored this question. His hands stroked down
the lovely pale skin of the psychics back, then he swooped down to kiss it as well. Attis made a

breathy sound, his thighs quivering. Blake took his time, enjoying the taste and smell of the
sweating skin. He bit lightly and sucked on it in places, not enough to bruise but enough that
Attis felt it.
Finally he reached the tight little pair of buttocks, and he lavished attention on them. Attis
rocked his hips and moaned as Blake kissed and bit at the taut skin, but that was nothing to the
reaction that he got when his fingers parted them and he bent his head to run his tongue over the
puckered pink ring between them in a loving lash. Ahh!! Attis shrieked, his back bucking
helplessly and his eyes opening wide. No, no! Ughh!!!
Blake ignored his incoherent protests and continued to lap at Attiss anus with fervor and
skill. The shrieks and cries told him that the psychic was really enjoying this, no matter what he
said. He slid his fingers back inside at the same time, burrowing deeper as he used his tongue to
good effect. Reaching down with his other hand, he discovered that Attis was hard again
already. He grinned evilly, scissoring his fingers as he traced the spasming opening with just the
tip of his tongue. An even louder wail told him that he was on the right track, as Attiss body
pushed back against him wildly.
Mmm, this was too damn much. Blake withdrew both fingers and tongue both, and sat up
so that he could worm his way out of his sweat pants. His dick was so hard now he could have
cut diamond with it. He looked down at the psychic, who was sprawled atop his bed in as
trembling mass. It looked like Attis was ready too. He slid away briefly to grab a condom
wrapper and a tube of lube he kept in his dresser drawer.
Attis felt something slick against that most secret, sensitive part of his body. Two fingers
slid into him again, but he only moaned. He heard Blake speaking behind him. This is gonna
hurt at first, Attis, the detective said as he twisted his fingers within Attis. But just take deep
breaths and try to relax. Itll get better soon, I promise.
Attis believed him. He trusted Blake Marsh utterly. So he only squeaked a bit when he
felt something bigger back there, something that was rubbed up against his hole for a bit before it
was pressed in. His fingers spasmed then dug into the sheets as a thick, hard something was
pushed inside of him a bit. His teeth clenched and his eyes closed. Ohh! he gasped. It hurts!
Whatever it was halted in its advance. I know, Blake said soothingly as his hands
caressed Attiss lower back and buttocks. Just relax, Attis, he directed the psychic once more.

Attis tried to let his muscles relax around the thing inside of him. And after a bit he was
successful. The burning pain faded a little. Uh, he said.
Does it feel better? Blake asked him gently.
Yes, he whimpered.
Okay.
He moaned as even more of it was inserted, somewhat distracted by the fact that a hand
had closed over his limp cock and was slowly stroking it. It stopped again, and Attis panted
loudly as his body shivered in Blakes grip. This time it didnt hurt quite as much, but his body
felt too full. But now a mouth was kissing his back and shoulders, and that hand continued to
pull and stroke at him until he hardened once more.
Time passed slowly. That thing slid into him a bit at a time, until he was so full that it felt
like it was in his throat. He could feel pubic hair pressed to his ass, and Attis whimpered as he
realized that Blakes entire penis was inside of him now. That coaxing hand was taking his mind
off of his discomfort, so when Blake rocked his hips a bit the psychic barely felt it. When he did
become aware of the movement within him, Blake had already set up a rhythm of tiny thrusts.
That felt weird, but not too bad - And his body was becoming accustomed to having something
inside of it now, which he was grateful for.
Attis found that he kind of liked having Blake moving within him. It wasnt too bad at all
now. He felt breath on the back of his neck as the detective braced himself above Attiss body,
never stopping the movement of his hips. How do you feel, Attis? he asked huskily.
Oh, the psychic said breathily. Iit feelsgood, Blake.
Great. I think youll like this even better, the other man replied. Before Attis could ask
him what he meant, Blake withdrew almost all of himself and surged back in sharply. The
psychic screamed as a bolt of lightning raced through his body from his ass to his cock, hearing a
low grunt of satisfaction behind him before the detective did it again, and again, and again! Attis
squirmed and writhed, pleasure swamping him down to his curling toes as Blake began to ride
him hard. Blake wasnt touching him anymore, but he didnt need the other man to anyway. He
was going to come, going to come from those streaks of intense pleasure that kept slamming
through him each time that Blake shoved his cock home.
Ahhh, uhhh! he yelled, his body arching. Ohh, Ohh, Bllaaaake! with a last drawn out
wail, Attis came all over the sheets.

Blake groaned as Attiss body tightened and spasmed around his cock. Fuck! This was
the tightest, hottest space that hed ever had the pleasure of being in, and he couldnt hold out
any longer against the way that the psychic was milking him. With a roar, he thrust back in one
more time and succumbed. His fingers dug into Attiss buttocks almost hard enough to leave
bruises as his orgasm ripped through him.
Shit. Blake just sat there slumped over Attiss body, still buried within the psychic as the
last shocks rippled through him. Attis was completely out of it, face forward on the bed in a
heap. Reluctant as he was to do so, Blake finally withdrew from the psychics body. He
stripped off the used condom and tossed it into the trash, then slid slowly off the bed on legs that
felt wobbly. He reached down to pick Attis up in his arms, carrying the smaller man into the
bathroom to start a shower for them. Now there, he mused as he used the hand not holding Attis
to turn on the water, was the right way to start the day. And he was definitely looking forward to
starting many more days in the exact same way from now on.

17
Blake sat in a chair in his living room with Attis on his lap. His big hands had pulled the
little green haired terrors legs to his shoulders, so that the psychic could look down and see the
cock buried inside of his slim body. He was lifting and lowering Attis by his thighs, and the soft
moans that rang in his ears turned him on greatly. The green head had fallen to his shoulder, and
the hazel eyes were unseeing as they stared at the ceiling.
The detective took pleasure in the feel of himself sinking into the psychics hot, tight
body. He hadnt actually set out to have sex with Attis in his living room hed simply been
watching TV and Attis had been bustling around cleaning things. But when hed bent over to
dust the coffee table, his tight little ass had been practically shoved into Blakes face. And that
was not an opportunity he was going to let go by the wayside. So hed grabbed a hold of Attis,
making the smaller man squeal, and had dragged him onto his lap. The inevitable followed after
that, and Attiss protests were easily silenced. All hed had to do was put something in that
sweet pink mouth to effectively shut it up

Blake surged upward with his hips, driving more of himself into that tight space. Attis
moaned breathily, his body convulsing as pleasure coursed through him. The cop chuckled
softly, sensually, and licked a small ear. Ahh, vacation. Too bad it had to end tomorrow. He
could have holed up with Attis for a few weeks more, neither of them leaving his apartment
much. A sex vacation. And the best hed ever had because of that fact.
He bit at the ear hed just been licking, causing Attis to mewl softly. Do you like this,
Attis? he growled into it.
Blaaaaaake, the psychic moaned, then whimpered as Blake pushed him down hard.
Oh, yes!
Good, he replied. Now touch yourself, Attis. I want to see you touch yourself until
you come. A breathy cry and the psychics hand fell into his lap and fumbled at his over-sized
cock. He gripped it tightly, crying out as his fingers began to move.
Thats right, just like that, Blake instructed him throatily. Now move your hand
faster.
Attis trembled but obeyed, his eyes glassy as he stroked himself harder. Blake moved his
slim body leisurely, taking his time and enjoying himself. From the small grunting sounds that
his lover was making, he knew that Attis was going to come soon. He still inside of him, making
the psychic mewl again and squirm in protest. I want you to come now, Attis, he said darkly
into his trolls ear.
A descending moan that turned into a wail started in the back of Attiss throat as his
fingers tightened on himself. Semen jetted up into the air, splattering all over his chest and
stomach. Blake smiled lazily as felt those sweet clutching muscles begin to milk him. He moved
the psychics body a few more times, until he finally found his own end with a low groan. Then
he was still, Attis a panting heap in his lap. Neither man moved for a bit as they recovered.
Finally Attis stirred a little. Blake? he said hoarsely.
Yeah? the detective asked.
Can you let me up? I need to finish cleaning, the psychic said earnestly.
Blake blinked, then shook his head. Trust Attis to ruin the afterglow! He dropped the
other mans legs, and Attis crawled out of his lap. The psychic wavered and wobbled, his legs
not very firm under him. Blake held his arm until he could stand on his own. Then the detective

pulled his green haired terror in for a last long kiss, and sent him on his way with another squeal
when he slapped that tight ass as the psychic turned away to collect his clothes.
Attis went down the hallway to the bathroom to get cleaned up. Blake removed the used
condom and dumped it in the trash, then zipped himself back up in his jeans and returned to
watching TV. He heard the sound of sweet singing coming from the direction of his bathroom.
His lips twitched. The truth was, hed already started getting used to Attiss presence in his
apartment. The psychic still slept in his own house at night, but he spent most of the day (when
he wasnt working) over at Blakes place. This would change tomorrow, though, since the cop
was due back at work.
Blake was considering ways to get Attis to stay at his place at night from now on. But the
little idiot seemed to prefer his house, which he supposed made sense since it was as weird
looking and as bizarre as he was himself. This had led the rather disgruntled Blake consider the
unthinkable moving in with Attis Gallagher. Lord, he couldnt even think about it without
feeling a shudder of horror run through him! He was definitely losing his mind. Too much sex
that was it. Too much really, REALLY good sex. It made him forget just why Attis Gallagher
drove him stark raving mad most of the time. But stillif he didnt move in with Attis he
wouldnt be able to see his little troll much. And much to his chagrin, he really did want to be
around Attis for some reason. It wasn't just the sex, either, although that was pretty great. Crazy
as he made Blake, there was still something about Attis that drew the detective to him
inexorably.
He shook his head, deciding to shelve the whole thing for now. But little did he know that
a solution to the problem of his not being able to see Attis much during the day would soon rear
its ugly head.

*****
Blake stretched out at his desk and propped his feet up on its surface. Glad to be back?
Lewis asked him from across it.
He grinned, folding his arms behind his head. Yeah. I missed you, man, he said in a
faux sappy voice.
Lewis snorted. As if. Besides, I figure you didnt think about me much at all during this
vacation. Too busy doing other things, eh? he winked at his partner lasciviously.

You got that right. Who would have known someone as annoying as Attis Gallagher
would actually be useful for something?
Lewis eyed him. Such fond sentiments, he said, shaking his head.
Blake rolled his eyes. Dont get me wrong, I like the little horror, he remarked. For
some odd reason. But he still drives me bonkers most of the time outside the bedroom. How
many of our cases did he show up on?
Yes, but you said that hes an actual psychic, Lewis pointed out. So if he does have
visions, why shouldnt we use them? Seems a waste not to.
I suppose, Blake conceded. Still, at least Ill only have to deal with him once in
awhile on the job. Thatll keep me from going psycho and murdering my lover.
Lewis chuckled. But before he could say anything else, the Chief came out into the squad
room and cleared his throat. Blake promptly removed his feet from his desk and sat up. I have
an announcement, ladies and gentlemen, the Chief said in his deep voice. The department has
seen fit to use some of its meager resources to hire an expert to help us on some of our tougher
cases. Hell be assisting Detectives Harrison and Eades on the multiple homicide case for now,
but well also find other jobs for him to do. Id like you all to meet the departments new
psychic, Attis Gallagher.
Blakes eyes bugged out and his jaw dropped as a familiar green haired figure came
tripping into the squad room to stand next to the Chief. Hi! he cried, waving at everyone
cheerfully. Its really great to meet everyone! Hi, Blake! he called to his lover, who was
feeling an arctic chill of horror run up his spine. Dear God, the universe couldnt be this fucking
cruel!
Everyone was looking at him as Attis called his name. He wanted to sink through the
floor and disappear, or throttle a certain green haired troll with his bare hands. As Lewis began to
laugh across from him, Blake Marsh realized that he had just entered one of the lowest rings of
Hell. And something told him that he wouldnt be crawling out of it for a long time to come.

THE END

You can find more by this author at your e-reader store and on
DL's Yaoi-Polloi

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