CHAPTER SIX

As I awaken, the rhythmic sound of raindrops against the window becomes clear. My eyes flutter open, only to be met by the frantic licking of Lincoln, his warm tongue brushing against my cheek. Having experienced this before, I know it will take a few moments for my senses to sharpen.

Next to me, the water bowl is empty, and my collection of charcoal sketches lies in a damp, ruined heap. Not that I want to cast blame, but considering I was technically deceased, I can hardly be held responsible. I eagerly lap up the last few drops from the bowl. With hunger gnawing at me, I make my way to the kitchen and devour a can of Friskies Chicken and Salmon Savory Shreds. Thank the heavens for easy-open tabs, as my current dexterity leaves much to be desired, and attempting to use a can opener would be a futile endeavor.

After several hours, I muster the courage to test out my new equipment. While Pornhub has its moments, nothing excites me quite like documentaries on cheetahs from National Geographic. Their elegant, powerful limbs and striking golden coats captivate me. Though they may be a bit superficial for my taste in real life, they certainly make for excellent fantasies. I often imagine rescuing a cheetah from a nefarious dealer of exotic animals. Sure, my apartment lacks the space for such a majestic creature, and her life here would hardly be better than it would be with the dealer or in the wild, but I could offer her a temporary refuge until she finds a home at the Black Jaguar-White Tiger Foundation. The knowledge of our fleeting encounter adds to the allure.

To my delight, my new appendage reacts even before I initiate any contact. I concentrate on the screen, trying to keep my mind clear. As I approach the point of climax, I pause—partly to reserve my first release for a true partner and partly to ensure my erection subsides naturally. I breathe a sigh of relie