Some answers

As you finish your story, Mark leans back, letting out a low whistle. “You’ve been busy since our last conversation.”

You sigh. “Busier than I’d like. Nothings been simple since I found Emi on the road that night.”

Mark nods. “I know what you mean. I love Alice dearly, but it hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. At least things between me and her have never gone south.”

You chuckle. “Yeah, even with the problems, I wouldn’t change anything. Emi is a dream come true. Not to mention Lili and Sam.”

Mark laughs. “Yeah, you’re a bit spoiled there. I can barely keep up with Alice, I don’t know how you do it.”

You shrug. “I’m extra tired sometimes, but it’s worth it. But back to the point. I’m worried about Harold’s disappearance. Do you know anything?”

Mark seems to hesitate. “Well…yes. I do. But the old man asked me to keep things secret. I’m not sure if I can break that promise.”

You nod, leaning forward a bit. “I wouldn’t ask that if you, but if you can give me anything…the girls are worried, they like him. And he didn’t tell Sam anything at all about disappearing.”

Mark sighs, thinking for a moment. Finally, he nods. “If he didn’t tell your girlfriend, he probably had a reason. I’ll keep it vague, then. He told us that he had an ‘important lead’ to follow up on. Told us not to worry, and that things will get easier very soon. That’s all I can really say.”

You nod, sitting back in your seat. “Well, at least we know he’s okay. I hope he’s not doing anything crazy.”

Mark laughs. “Says the guy involved in a government **** plot!”

You’re about to retort when Emi and Alice emerge from the bedroom. Both Hybrids are smiling, and Emi is blushing a little bit as she hips onto your lap. “Did we miss anything?”

You chuckle. “It seems like Harold is going to be okay. Care to share any of your discussions?”

Emi shakes her head. “Nope. You’ll find out later.”

The cat girl wiggles on your lap, giggling as she does. The attempt at distraction is obvious, but effective. Across the room, both Mark and Alice laugh. Mark nods, still grinning.

“I see she knows how to handle you just as well as Alice does me.”

Alice, standing beside Mark’s chair, delicately runs a finger along his cheek, speaking in a sultry tone. “I’m pretty sure you enjoy the ways that I ‘handle’ you, dearest…”

Now it’s Mark’s turn to blush, and you laugh yourself. “Yeah, they know exactly how to deal with us.”

Regaining his composure, Mark chuckles. “Not complaining about that. Anyway, if we’re done with serious discussion, how about we just hang out for a bit? Alice and I don’t get many guests, for obvious reasons.”

Emi nods excitedly. “Yeah! I’d like that. Can we, love?”

You smile. “I suppose Lili and Sam won’t mind a bit more alone time. Sure.”

Mark chuckles, shaking his head. “Again, I don’t know how you handle it, Andy.”

Alice laughs. “You sound jealous, dear. Am I not enough for you?”

Mark rolls his eyes. “Don’t tease me, babe, you know you’re more than enough for me.”

Alice smiles slyly. “I guess I’ll cancel the threesome, then.”

You laugh at Mark’s surprised expression. “You walked into that one.”

Mark sighs, laughing a bit as well. “I did. So…who’s hungry?”