Part 16

Mr. Downey's muse and mine went toe to toe - OK I exaggerate. However never miss an opportunity to hug one's Muse is a motto of mine.

"That's another fine mess you've got me into!" said Arty in Hardyesque tones.

Frank had the decency to look sheepish.

"I don't know what trouble you've been getting into with your muse, but leave mine out of it. OK?"

Frank nodded.

With that thought off his chest, Arty made his way towards Friday with great trepidation; at least this time it wasn't all, or even any, of his fault. 'Yeah, right', he told himself with heavy irony. 'Like that'll make *all* the difference.'

As he approached she turned to face him; he knew it was a cliche, but she looked absolutely stupendous, when she was mad. Before she had a chance to say anything he grabbed her in a hug and started to stroke her hair and shoulders. She sighed and snuggled closer.

"You can resign from the council if you wish, but you don't get away from me that easily my girl." He did nothing to restrain the tears that the thought of life without Friday evoked. "No, that's not right; of course I won't stop you if you really want to leave, but if you go, don't forget there'll always be a Friday-shaped place in my heart."

She looked up and kissed away his tears. "Oh all right, you big softy. Just go easy for a bit will ya!"

Arty smiled broadly. "Great! I won't have to send back the bear suit after all!"

Then his smile faded as he saw the form of a large purple dinosaur heading his way...