Scenting something suspicious in the air around me, I lay struggling to stay asleep in my bed after a rough night's sleep, kept awake by the cold that had almost fully blocked my throat and nose. No matter how I tried, no matter what I did, I just couldn't get to sleep for more than short bursts at a time. And by the time 5AM came and went, I was ready to collapse...although a certain man I knew was not.

Just as I had managed to get back to sleep, a knock on my door jolted me from my slumber, which swung open before I could do anything to stop it. Though I could see barely more than a silhouette, I knew who it was instantly. The shadow belonged to none other than James, a skunk who, despite his contempt for humans, had taken a liking to me, if somewhat in an unhealthy way.

"Hiya!" he beamed. "I heard about what happened, and I hope you feel better soon. But...skunkie hugs for you, cuddle toy!" And barely after his name had escaped my throat, he approached me with his arms opened, clutching a red balloon as he came closer to me. As he cuddled me tightly, I remained silent, not daring to hug him back. But soon, I noticed a glint flash across his eyes. It was evident there was something more on his mind, but there was no way to tell what.

Made back when I'd had one of my worst colds in March 2011, ReokuKurosai made this touching picture of his skunk James in a wish for me to recover. Here we see James approaching the camera with his arms opened...but trust me, you don't want to know what he really wants with you if you're a human. >.< This gesture means more than words can say, bro, and never shall there be a moment where I don't treasure you! hugs

James belongs to ReokuKurosai.

Original image: Not available (artist did not post)