Page 38 of Prize for the Alien Grumpus

The front door opens with a gentle tap of my claw. The alarm system chirps once before I jam its signal.

Marble floors echo under my feet as I prowl through the penthouse. The place reeks of money and privilege. My claws itch to tear it all down.

A door creaks. Light spills into the hallway.

"Tommy? Is that you?"

A woman in red lace sashays toward me. The secretary. The one who helped destroy Mel's family. My lip curls back, exposing fangs.

"Oh my god." She giggles. "That costume is amazing. The fur looks so real."

Her hand reaches out to stroke my chest. I suppress a growl.

"You should have told me you were into furry play, babe. Though blue isn't really your color."

Play along. Don't harm her. She's just another victim of Tom's manipulation.

"Come here." I gesture with one claw.

She practically skips over, trailing perfume that burns my nose.

"These handcuffs are part of the game?" She dangles them from one finger.

I take them, careful not to scratch her with my claws. "Of course."

"Kinky." She turns, offering her wrists. "Do your worst, big boy."

The cuffs click shut. She doesn't resist when I guide her to sit.

"The gag too? You're full of surprises tonight."

Once she's secured, I pat her head.

"Stay quiet. I'll be right back."

"Mmph!" She wiggles, clearly thinking this is all foreplay.

Now for Tom. The real monster in this house.

The master bedroom door swings open silently. Tom sprawls across silk sheets, mouth hanging open in a snore. The mattress must have cost more than most humans make in a year.

Perfect.

My chains rattle as I leap onto the bed. The nettles in my hand strike true across his bare chest.

Tom's eyes snap open. His scream pierces the night.

"Please! Don't kill me! Take whatever you want!"

"Thomas Redding." My voice rumbles deep in my chest. "You have been very naughty this year."

"What? I don't understand!"

Another strike of the nettles makes him yelp.

"Price gouging life-saving medicine? Destroying families with your greed?" My fangs gleam in the moonlight. "That's on Santa's naughty list."

"I'll do anything! Please!"

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