Overture Downs collision

In his mind, Santiago was a very nice man. The nicest he could remember, even if he couldn't remember too much. His staring didn't particularly bother the boy - Clarence was a starer, as well, fascinated by people and everything about them. And Santiago was very fascinating, indeed. Startling contrast of black and white and silver - it was a monochromatic masterpiece. 

But then he was leaving. Why was he leaving? Had Clarence done something wrong?

Eyes widening in alarm, Clarence hopped to his feet, the rest of his rabbit forgotten. Santiago started talking about the two legs again, and the boy's tail drooped. It didn't tuck in fear, but his eyes dulled and he looked at the ground again, his body deflating.

"I will never be in a cage again," he said calmly, almost sad. The boy would not allow himself to be brought back to that place. No way in hell. He'd rather die.

Clarence shook his head to clear it, ignoring the pounding behind his skull as he approached the older man. "Can I go with you?" he asked, tail swaying just slightly, hopeful. "I want to stay with you, I think. Is that okay?"