Statement

Sad news, fellas. It looks like Cartoon Cuties will be classified by Amazon as an "adult item" from now on. I strongly disagree with that assessment, but better the series be available at a limitation than not available at all. I will not be changing the tone of the book despite the classification. This is a family series, and I will continue to approach it as such.

Fun-Time Mala

 

Paris, or Mars?

 

"Must've been bitter!"

 

Blind Love

 

Mala Winston

 

Mala Winston

 

A WOMAN'S WORK...

See it on YouTube, thanks to Mr. Mark Homes!





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGJSYGL1vgo&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR2zAC2qgYQsVNdYKCKJ1oiBnD3RtPo8gAKB6aBP0-GLk52m2BdpBrGN3iA

Mala Winston

Mala Winston

Lois Teppert/"Chickie Little"

Color plate for issue 3

Merry Christmas for Mala

   Mala let out a yelp as she jumped back. How she managed not to scream, she couldn't figure. As she was pulling out a drawer to grab a fresh pair of stockings, a rat had run right up onto the chest of drawers and only inches from her face. She had no weapon handy, but dared not let the rat escape. She had to, though, as the rat ran off and disappeared before she could make her move. It was a mighty uncomfortable thought that the creature was running around the house, but she wasn't in a position to do much about it right now. She finished putting on her uniform and left with the intention of picking up some rat traps. Surely Ed and Misty would want the creature removed as much as Mala did.

   The hardware store in town offered a selection of traps, but Mala was unsure which would work best. She tried not to exaggerate the size of the rat when discussing the matter with the salesman, but she still ended up walking out with some good-sized traps. Not much happened on Saturdays, so Mala decided to take the scenic route back to the Carter house. When she arrived, Ed was just finishing putting up the Christmas tree. Misty sat down to take a look at the placement. 

   "It's perfect," Misty clapped her hands together, "and it'll look just wonderful once we have it decorated!" The rest of the room was already decked out, with tasteful but colorful decorations adorning every door and window. Mala felt a little guilty about showing up so late, feeling she could have been a great help if she'd been on hand. She was rather touched to find that Ed had hung an extra stocking over the fireplace, a stocking with Mala's name beautifully embroidered upon it. Mala blushed at the sight, she was so moved. Ed noticed.

   "You're one of the family now, Mala," he proudly gestured to the stocking, "do you like it?"

   "Oh, it's just wonderful," Mala reached up and removed a tear from her eye, "I feel so guilty about not being here sooner to help you decorate."

   "Don't worry about that. Misty loves to decorate for Christmas. But you can help us trim the tree."

   "Really? When I came to work as your maid, I never expected you'd open your home to me so fully."

   "Like Ed said," Misty stood, "you're a part of our family now, Mala."

   "You have such big hearts," Mala sighed, "I thought I was just the maid." It became clear to Ed and Misty that Mala wasn't used to being treated with such kindness. Not for a long time, at least. In her childhood, Roger was always there. She was on her own by the time he'd come back from the Army, however, and after that she'd fallen into whatever horror it was that was turning the wolves into savages. It had been a long time since Mala felt like she was part of a real family, and she thought her place with the Carters would be that of a domestic only. 

    She quickly learned she wasn't to be just a hired servant, however. Misty always urged her friends to call her by first name, and insisted Mala do so as well. Mala had been given quarters which turned out to be rather more opulent than anything she ever expected. And there was the way Misty treated her. When Misty needed something done, she let Mala know it, but never in the form of an order. Really, Misty had been treating Mala like a sister all along. Misty came from high society, but her breeding never shaded her interaction with Mala. The two girls had spent much time in conversation. They spoke over breakfast, lounging by the pool, and even while Mala went about her duties. Misty had been used to doing her own cleaning for a while, which was her justification for giving Mala a hand whenever they were together. At first, Mala expected things to settle into a normal routine where Misty would fully turn over the chores to Mala. But that hadn't happened. Mala tended to do her cleaning when Misty was at the studio, but somehow, Misty always managed be back home in time to lend a hand.

   "You didn't need a maid," Mala looked at Misty, "just why did you hire me?"

   "I wouldn't say we didn't need a maid," Misty motioned to the room, "this is pretty big place and I wouldn't want to keep cleaning it by myself on weekends when someone could keep it clean for me every day."

   "But you never let me do all the cleaning. You took a big chance, inviting me to live and work here. And you knew what I'd done... I can't figure the motivation."

   "Have a seat, Mala." Ed gestured to the couch. Mala complied.

   "Okay."

   "I was a friend of the Warden, and he told me about the program. We thought it would be a good way to help someone get a leg up."

   "We both thought it would be worth anything to break that smut ring," Misty chimed in, "opening our doors to whoever took that risk seemed entirely worth it. While you were undercover, we told Roger about the program. We wanted him to know, since he and Crissy are such dear friends of ours. They both thought it was a good idea."

   "They did? Even before I was out?"

   "What you were doing was worthy of reward," Ed said, "a second chance. Roger wanted you to get that second chance. So did Crissy. We knew you'd changed after you'd been locked away. We were given full details on you before we were asked to go through with it. We figured our home would be a better environment than the wolf pack."

   "Yes," Mala looked at her feet, "I can never thank you enough for what you've done. And now, to know you think of me as a member of the family... I can't put into words how wonderful I feel." Mala looked up with a smile. Then her eyes caught sight of the rat and she began screaming, much to the confusion of Ed and Misty. Mala pointed to the rat, as it nibbled at the lower branches of the tree. Ed put out his hand to tell both girls to keep still. What he did next was pretty impressive. He reached for the hammer still resting on the mantel, then used it as a missile. His aim was perfect, and the rat was clonked in the head. Ed then finished the job with his foot, stomping down on the dazed rodent and killing the pest.

   Now able to catch her breath, Mala broke another smile. "I don't have to clean that up, do I?"

   "I'm not touching it!" Misty playfully insisted. Ed rolled his eyes and smiled before stooping down to wrap some newspaper around the dead rat. Fortunately, he'd laid some down to catch the needles before setting up the tree.

   "These things usually come in waves," Ed noted, "we'll need to set out some traps." Mala grinned as she scooped up the bag of traps she'd purchased earlier.

   "Well, looks like we got the perfect Christmas present from Mala, Ed!"

   "That's actually something I've been having trouble with," Mala admitted, "what can I possibly get for you two that you don't have already. What I do have for you seems sorta silly, after what you've told me just now. But the one thing I got sorta good at over the years was wood carving. You can buy anything you want, so I figured maybe I could make something you wouldn't think of buying for yourself."

   "I admit you have us intrigued," Ed said as he put his arm around Misty, "I didn't know you did wood carvings." Mala sat silently for a second, then walked up the stairs. A few minutes later, she came down carrying a cardboard box.

   "I'm going to go ahead and give these to you now," Mala said, "if it's not your cup of tea, I still have time to find something better. I haven't been here long enough to really know your tastes, apart from what I can glean from the rest of the stuff in the house." Ed and Misty stood by as Mala set the box on the couch and then pulled out of it two very beautiful carvings. For Ed was a soap dish shaped like a clam shell decorated with a Navy anchor. To Misty was given a soap dish shaped like her string of pearls resting over a small round pillow. Mala was embarrassed, thinking the bobbles worthless and crude. What Ed and Misty could see was personalized, beautifully crafted, and demonstrative of Mala's hidden talents. Misty was so touched that she sniffed back a tear as she hugged Mala in thanks. Mala was actually a bit surprised. "You like them? You really like them?" Ed nodded and smiled as he held up his dish for close inspection.

   "Oh, Mala," Misty admired her soap dish, "these are absolutely beautiful! Merry Christmas!"

   "Merry Christmas. And thank you, for everything." Mala then screamed as she saw another rat.   

Back Home For Thanksgiving

   Crissy looked out her window, happy to once again be back home and overlooking the lagoon which waited right outside her back door. Somehow, this was even more enchanting that the beautiful beaches of Hawaii. Maybe because it was more private. This was a lush paradise exclusive to Crissy and Roger, which made it far more special than even the picturesque tropical location Crissy had stayed in for the previous weeks. It had been an eventful trip to Hawaii, and the return home seemed far more relaxing than the visit to the youngest State in the republic. Crissy wandered back into the bedroom, where her husband Roger was content to just stretch out in their bed. He hadn't even bothered to remove his jacket and shoes. Crissy smiled.

   "Most people relax on their vacations more than they do at home."

   "It's always good to get back home." Roger didn't even open his eyes.

   "Sounds like we're going to be extra thankful this Thanksgiving." Crissy curled up next to Roger and played her fingers through his chest hair. This activity made Roger open his eyes slightly as he smiled at her.

   "Every day is Thanksgiving for me, Cris. You have no idea how grateful I am to be your husband."

   "Oh, I have some clues," she said playfully as she snuggled into his side, "but I'm the one who's grateful. I got a man who's one in a million, I'm sure of that." Crissy looked dreamily into nothing as she continued to play her fingers across Roger's muscular chest. He chuckled.

   "You know, this will be our first Thanksgiving together as man and wife."

   "Say, that's right." Crissy sat up and mulled over the significance of what Roger had said. "Should we spend the day with your family or mine?"

   "You're the only one who has a family to spend Thanksgiving with."

   "You don't have any uncles or anything?"

   "No. The only living blood relative I have is Roxy. She'll be spending the holiday in the pen."

   "I hadn't thought of that." Crissy sighed as she lay down again. "I feel sorry for her."

   "After what she tried to do to you?" Roger's eyes were now fully open. "I knew you were forgiving, but I guess I never expected this. Not really."

   "Whatever has a hold on her, it isn't the real her, I'm sure of that. Mala came to her senses. You yourself said that you had fallen into whatever it is before you met me."

   "Yes." Roger thought about it as he looked at the ceiling. "Roxy seemed to get the worst of it. It may take longer for her to break free." His eyes returned to his wife. "I haven't thought much about Roxy since the trial. She said she never wanted to see me again as she was taken away. Your concern for her is very uplifting."

   "If you ever need a pick-up," Crissy smiled as she pushed herself up and looked into Roger's eyes, "just remember that the girl you married is a cartoon rabbit with the maiden name of Carrots." Roger laughed. Crissy sat up again and reached for a cigarette. "Seriously, though, Rog. I think you should visit Roxy on Thanksgiving. Maybe if she knows you still love her, it'll help snap her out of whatever has her in it's grip."

   "Okay. You may have something. I'll swing by the prison after I drop you off at your folk's house, then I'll come back for a real Thanksgiving dinner with the Carrots. By the way, just how did your family end up with such an ironic name?"

   "You can blame that on a great-great uncle of mine. When he came to America, he thought it would be a better name than Carrotokowitzkey. I can't argue his logic. Carrots sounds silly, but it's easier to say!"

   "Easier to put on a business sign, too." The Carrots name was quite a familiar sight in Creek Bend and it's surrounding towns. With the whole clan gathered together for Thanksgiving, the resemblance to rabbits would be on full display. Could Crissy's parents really fit everyone into their house? Maybe a quick visit was the best option, but Crissy looked forward to holiday reunions with her family. It was really the only time she preferred to be around large groups of people. Roger would be there for her, he just hoped he wouldn't lose her in the crowd!

   Roger arrived outside the prison building, but sat in his car for a while before actually walking up to the door. As he came near, he was surprised to see Mala stepping out. She was just as surprised to see Roger. Mala took a step back when she saw him, sure he wouldn't be overly happy to run into one of the women who attempted to murder his wife. He paused, too, unsure how to handle the situation. He took a breath.

   "Hello, Mala."

   "Roger." Mala felt extremely timid. She knew Roger as a kind, warm-hearted man, though, and his tone conveyed none of the anger Mala expected. It was going to be difficult figuring what subjects to bring up in conversation. Fortunately, Roger started.

   "How's working for Ed and Misty?"

   "It's wonderful. They really make me feel like I'm normal again."

   "From what they've told me, you completely are."

   "You've talked to them about me?"

   "Absolutely. Whatever happened before, I still care about you. You were my best friend growing up. Now you're working for two of the best friends I have now. The subject was going to come up. From everything I've heard, you're doing very well. I'm proud of you."

   "Thank you, Roger, but I had nothing to do with it. Everything that's happened since, eh, the incident, has been entirely the grace of God. That's one reason I came to see Roxy today, because I know there's hope for her, too."

   "So you spoke to her?"

   "No," Mala sighed, "she refused to see me. The Warden says she's only gotten more violent since I got out."

   "If we only knew what this condition was. Roxy was always so sweet as a kid. Playful, even mischievous, but sweet." Roger sighed. "Do you think she'll see me?"

   "I don't know," Mala shook her head, "as much as she hates me right now, she may hate you more." Mala caught herself, she hadn't intended to be quite so blunt. "What I mean is, well..."

   "I know what you mean. Roxy became increasingly proud after I got back from the Army. I know she sees my marrying Crissy as some sort of personal affront. I know she probably never wants to see me again, but Cris and I both thought it might do her some good to know that we're still thinking of her."

   "I think it will. Maybe not all at once, but it'll be a hint that she means something to other people. I came for the same reason. What she needs is some hope to hold onto. If she hangs onto that rage, it'll kill her."

   "I'm so happy to have you back to normal, Mala. I hope we can still be friends."

   "I would really like that. Having your ear for all those years, it made a difference, I think. I was pretty happy as a kid. After what I did to Crissy, though, I figure it best to keep my distance. At least for now."

   "I can't fault your logic, Mala. I'm sure I'd feel the same in your place. Just know that if you ever need anything and you think I can help you, my door is open." Mala breathed deeply, releasing a happy sigh as she smiled at Roger. Roger extended his hand. Mala shook it. Both of them had the instinct to hug each other, but refrained. It was too soon, but there was the hint that someday it would be the right thing to do. They parted on friendly terms, which meant much to both of them. It gave Roger a little confidence he lacked before, and he walked inside the building. 

   As could be predicted, Roxy refused to see Roger. The Warden himself told Roger the bad news. Roger nodded quietly. Maybe next year they could meet on friendlier terms. Still, Roger dug into his pocket and produced some cash. He gave it to the Warden and told him he wanted it spent to have some flowers placed in Roxy's cell. Roses. She always liked white roses. The Warden promised to carry out Roger's wishes. Maybe it was best that Roger had gone long before Roxy got the flowers. He wasn't there to see her rip the flowers apart and stomp on them before breaking down and sobbing into her bunk. The Warden actually felt this a pretty good turn of events. Her crying offered a glimpse of heartbreak rather than her usual rage. It was a small token, but it promised there might be something left in her heart besides ice.

   Beverly parked her car at Davy's house. She turned to Jeannie, who was sitting next to her in the passenger seat.

   "You're sure," Beverly made doubly certain, "Mom and Dad said it was okay if I spent Thanksgiving with Davy instead of the family?"

   "Of course," Jeannie smiled, "they think it's a wonderful thing for you to do."

   "Thanksgiving is one of the few times a year the family is all together," Beverly looked toward Davy's house, "I don't want to turn my back on my family, but I feel it's really important for me to be here instead. This is Davy's first Thanksgiving without his father. I can't imagine what that's like. I just really have to be here, Jean."

   "Believe me, Bev," Jeannie rubbed Beverly's shoulder reassuringly, "we know exactly how you feel. Dad wanted to invite Davy and his mother to our gathering, but he knew this would be better. If you and I join Davy's family for Thanksgiving, it may help make the day a little easier for everyone that knew his dad."

   "There aren't as many cars here as I expected. It must be a smaller family than ours. A lot smaller. I love that kid, Jean. I want him to have the best holiday he can."

   "Then we'd better go on in." Jeannie smiled. Beverly smiled in return and nodded. Before the girls could make it up the walk to the door, little Davy came bursting out. The grin on his face as he ran toward Beverly was almost too much for either girl to stand. Jeannie had to choke back a tear as she watched Beverly crouch down and tightly hug Davy. This was going to be a very special Thanksgiving.

   At the Carrots home, Roger entered to find the house filled with cartoon rabbits milling about. This same crowd had attended his wedding to Crissy. Roger wondered just how they had all managed to fit into the tiny chapel in the first place. Crissy caught sight of Roger and ran to greet him. She pulled him aside to a relatively private corner.

   "How did things go with Roxy?"

   "They didn't. She wouldn't see me. I ran into Mala there. Roxy wouldn't see her, either."

   "I'm so sorry, Rog. It must hurt to be treated like that by a family member."

   "Oh, I'd say the worst of it was gotten out of the way a long time ago. By the time, eh, of the, er, incident, when I had to part company with Rox, we'd already grown apart. I haven't really had time to lament the loss of a sister, I've been too focused on the joys of gaining a wife." Crissy smiled and cuddled his hand against her cheek. 

   "You've gained a lot more than that. Dad wants you to sit next to him at the head of the table."

   "Really?"

   "His highest honor."

   When the entire family had somehow been packed into the dining room and seated around the biggest dining table Roger had ever seen, Crissy's father stood to carve the turkey. Before raising his implements, he addressed the group. A professional speaker could not have made a better address.

   "We've come to another Thanksgiving. It remains my greatest joy that we all understand what this day is about. As those pilgrims did so long ago, we give thanks to God for His provision, protection, and prosperity. And this year we are abundantly blessed by the arrival of new members of the family. Little Cindy down there, the blushing bride of my nephew Clarke. Marilyn, my new grand-daughter celebrating her very first Thanksgiving. And perhaps the face that stands out most at a casual glance is this young man seated next to me. I haven't known Roger long, but all I need to know is that twinkle in my daughter's eye when she looks at him. She never ceases to express a dreamy sparkle of love so deep that it should inspire epic poems like those of old. Her evident happiness just to be his bride is all I need know about a man who has risked all many times over just to secure her safety. Roger, before I cut into this bird, I would be honored if you would lead us in saying grace."

  Roger hesitated for a second, so moved by the words of Mr. Carrots. Then he nodded and stood as the others bowed their heads.

   "Father, we thank you for this time together, for this wonderful meal, and for every blessing we may sometimes take for granted. The touch of a loved one, the blessing of living in a country where we needn't fear persecution for expressing our beliefs, or fear those to whom we grant authority. We are blessed, and we thank you. We thank you for the covenant you took with our founders, and for their example. For freedom and prosperity which you have given us, for your Son above all. That in He and He alone we stand before you in perfection, regardless of the mistakes we have made. Thank you that in His blood we are clean, not based upon our efforts but in His perfection. In His precious and perfect name, Amen."

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 

FROM THE    

CARTOON CUTIES!      

Mala Winston

   At first, it was supposed to be a one-shot graphic novel about Crissy Carrots. To fill out the book, I drew up a series of pinup shots of the various characters. When it became known that Cartoon Cuties would be a continuing series, the pinups were held back for use in future issues. After drawing this image of Mala, I saw that she had potential beyond her turn as one of the heavies in that first story. Thus, her reform is a part of issue 2.