You drive to your friend Dave's house. You haven't had the courage even to look at your new appendage since you left the zoo. Pulling away the shirt that was covering it, you pick it up and stare at it, once again admiring the sensation that no human was ever meant to feel: the sensation of grasping one's own tail.
Stepping out of the car, you stuff your tiger tail back down your pants and knock on the door. Dave greets you cheerfully. You greet him, but not as carefree.
"What's wrong?" he asks.
"Dave, do you believe in magic?"
"Maybe. Why?"
"This," you answer, not wanting to give a verbose explanation. You simply lower the back of your pants and show him your long, narrow tail. You twitch it a few times in relief and to prove it's real. Dave gasps in shock. He reaches out to touch it, but doesn't seem sure if he should. "Go ahead," you tell him.
He wonder if he's going to handle it roughly and hurt you, but he doesn't. He just seems amazed as he holds it gently in his palm. It's bizarre to feel his hand so far behind you! He moves his palm a little, caressing your striped fur. Your feel your tail twitch in response.
You're afraid you'll lose him as a friend, but he surprises you with a big grin and exclaims, "This is the most exciting thing that's ever happened!"