(Don't worry. We'll get to that romance all in good time. :) Thanks for the faves and follows! Don't be shy on leaving a review too. I love those!)

Chapter 7

More Pieces to the Puzzle

Nick could appear like he was trying to solve the case without seeing evidence that night. He never moved from his post with his family reuniting and Judy adding her only cheer to the party. He kept his eyes averted away, like he was deep in thought of what else could be done to solve the kidnapping.

In truth though, Nick felt upset with himself. Why didn't he think there was something suspicious about Courtney being gone for three years? Roberta felt the same, but he was now a cop. He had detective skills so why didn't it click together? He and Courtney were never close, they used to be at each other's throats as kids, but he never wanted this to happen. She didn't deserve an experience this scary. He used to think she got it easy; no bullies in her school because she was pretty, good grades (because she dated a handsome, but nerdy tutor) and it seemed like she got everything she wanted. She didn't have that fearful experience of a scout group betraying trust. She hadn't suffered in an accident like Heather. Now she had been held captive with a shock collar.

"We didn't need this," he thought. He looked into the hospital room.

By then, Roberta and Courtney were asleep. They were cuddled in the same bed. Judy hadn't left and fell asleep in the chair. Smirking at her loyalty, Nick scooped her up and placed her on the roll out bed originally for Roberta. He looked down at his clothes. He'd have to be in uniform to meet with Chief Bogo and not to mention grab his phone. He quietly tore a piece of paper from the notebook Courtney used and scribbled something down.

"At work. –Nick."

Then he carefully closed the door and headed back home. He inhaled slowly, stalling those flutters in his soul from carrying Judy. This wasn't the first time. They all started on one stormy evening in early June with a road rage chase.


A gang of four, equal amounts of predator and prey had gone on a mad joyride which disturbed Savannah Central. Nick and Judy had gone through, siren wailing and whirling it's red and blue lights. It was insane with the rain changing from a sprinkle to a rumbling storm.

The driver had gone around towards the Rainforest District. Judy had sped along over the street to a rickety bridge with a river rushing below. From the truck window, an arm dropped an open gas can. Instead there was oil which splattered and bounced past. It spilled over the edge, but it was far from Judy's concern. Then uphill they went, following that black truck. Nick was contacting Clawhauser for backup.

"Pull over already," shouted Judy though the delinquents couldn't hear. "He's heading for the hiking trail!"

The truck took a sharp turn into the trees and vanished. It was likely they were intoxicated, but Judy and Nick were not taking that risk of crashing in trees. They could see the faint steep stair leading to the trail.

"They'll be at a dead end," said Nick. "There's a steep ledge ahead of them. Bet the truck will be caught on the rocks."

"They'll be back," added Judy. "We'll be ready."

"Get the tranquilizers Carrots," warned Nick as they got out.

Into the strong rain they hiked. They were soaked to the final hair. There was only the forest trail which seemed too narrow unless the stairs were taken. Carefully they stepped by the wooden guardrail which looked over the river below.

"They would have to get out and then go further up," said Nick. He clicked on his flashlight.

"Where are they?" whispered Judy moving hers about. The two rays of white light only revealed the slanted raindrops.

That's when she noticed broken tree branches dangling above and the faint tire tracks. Just then truck came back, it plowed out of the wood, but it was going backwards! It was sliding towards Nick and Judy. Without even thinking, Judy and Nick leaped over the edge. Down they plunged, twenty feet into the flooding river. The truck slammed against the rails and several broken pieces tumbled below. The driver pulled on the emergency brake just in time.

Far down, Nick and Judy struggled to keep their heads above, but the storm was causing more choppy waves. Even more, it was carrying them downstream. When Nick glanced up, he could see the squad car's glaring lights pull up beside theirs. Help had come, but now they had to get out. A wave crashed above and pulled him under. He bashed his hip and tail against rocks. When he tried to swim, he was overwhelmed and moving around blindly. Then around he swirled, unable to breathe and with blurry vision. Sometimes the current tossed him up and he'd yell before being engulfed again.

It seemed like an eternity, but it was really two minutes he was in that current. He caught sight of the riverbank where the water was brushing against. He desperately stroked his arms to reach though they ached. At last though, Nick crawled upon the pebbly shore and fell to his side for deep breaths.

"Carrots?" he coughed. Anxiously he looked both directions. "Judy!"

He couldn't see her. His eyes were stinging from the rain and the current kept sweeping over his legs. He struggled up. His body felt like it had been tossed around in a dryer. He was sore with some bumps from the rocks.

"Judy!" he yelled again desperately. His ears tried to catch her voice, but the only thing he heard were the sirens. Then madly he ran along the bank.

"No," he thought. "No, no. Don't do this Carrots! Don't you dare leave me!"

Ahead was the rickety bridge and something blue was being pressed against it. Judy had caught one of the bridge parts and had tried climbing up. She was smaller and lighter than Nick which had been easier to have her carried away. She had lost him, but quickly hugged one of the beams and was reaching herself up. The bridge, which had a beautiful side design, was slippery with the oil from the car chase. That's when she lost her grip, desperately grabbed the gas can and tumbled back into the river. She had lost her breath, but landed feet first in the water. One of the rails that tumbled with her and Nick, had flooded down. When she resurfaced, it bashed her head and she lost consciousness.

Nick saw it just in time and dove back into the river. It was a miracle that Judy was caught against the bridge leg and he yanked her back.

"Judy?" Nick yelled.

She didn't respond. He tightened his fist into the lattice design and pushed himself up. His paw gripped and then up the next ten feet he climbed in the most awkward way he could. Judy was held in one strong arm and up he tried to climb. His right arm was burning from the gripping. When he reached the ledge, he heaved himself up and Judy smacked to the wood below him. He rolled off her and started to panic.

"Carrots," he called shaking her. "Wake up!"

There she lay, eyes shut and her chest still. Nick's blood froze. He immediately pinched her nose and breathed into her mouth.

"Judy come on," growled Nick as his paws pounded rhythmically on her chest. "Don't do this to me!" It took four more pounds when suddenly Judy spat and coughed for air.

"Ni-" she tried to say as she rolled to her side. She held her chest and gasped.

"You okay Fluff?" he asked.

"Yeah," she replied sitting on her knees and taking deep breaths. "I'm fine. Thanks."

Her amethyst eyes shined and she smiled gratefully. Nick felt a flutter suddenly burst in his stomach. She suddenly hugged him despite knowing they had a job to do. That wasn't like her to suddenly go emotional on the job. Nick obliged, but doing that he felt the whirlwind of emotions. She could've drowned if he hadn't showed up. Then that horrible thought crept in. His life without Judy would be the worst. He needed her there. When he came home, still damp from the rain, that thought kept flashing and he realized what those flutters where; a different kind of love.

Oh for the next several months he hoped they would leave, but they didn't. He tried so hard to not let those emotions get to him, but they would soar all the time they were together. He couldn't see Judy as his best friend anymore. She was someone he wanted have and hold. That was something that never crossed his mind or what he wanted before. Dare he say, the thought of settling down seemed nicer by the day.

That one day they met in the ice cream parlor, though she had carried the fox repellent, and he hustled her, it built up to the best change for his life. The fact that she had apologized for her small mind had been a first; no prey had asked forgiveness for their mistakes to him. Hearing her cry, it had been the most genuine and earnest tone to hit his ears. That's why his paw slipped to the carrot pen to record it. Maybe she was a dumb bunny, but she was still Carrots to him; independent, optimistic, smart and caring. Not to mention, as he noticed over the past months, especially beautiful with her large eyes, soft grey fur, upbeat grin and little pink nose.

"Don't bother telling her though," he'd think. "You're just her best friend."


It was almost 8:00 am when Judy blinked awake and was surprised to find herself in the bed. She blushed, certain it was Nick who put her there. She stretched her arms and went for the bathroom to splash some water on her face. Feeling a little refreshed, save for the wrinkled uniform, she saw a scrap paper perched against the whiteboard for the nurses. Judy read the note and frowned. She didn't like Nick seeming to just leave his family. Now what? She knew she was needed back, but she couldn't find it to abandon Courtney even with her mom at hand. At that moment, Roberta yawned and rubbed her eyes. Her short hair was messy.

"Good morning Judy," she whispered.

"Hi," her son's best friend whispered back. "Nick's down at the station. Chief called him down before you arrived."

"Oh," said Roberta disappointingly. "I wished he had gotten me up. I suppose they'll want me to talk too?"

"It's likely, but not because you're in trouble or anything. They'll just want to piece everything together before Courtney disappeared."

Roberta nodded and looked at her daughter sadly. She climbed from the bed and readjusted her bathrobe. She flipped her head over to fix her hair. It was always parted down the middle and at her shoulders. Judy noticed how much she looked like her child. The blue eyes, narrow jaw, actual hair in the auburn shade were an uncanny resemblance. Courtney's ears though were shorter on her head and had a more red tint in her locks.

"Could use some tea," Roberta said to herself.

"Or coffee," thought Judy. She had a good sleep, but she felt drained of energy after yesterday. Then again, the whole week had left her exhausted.

Courtney had slept deeply with her mother, but unaware to the rabbit and fox those nightmares stalked her. Nasty images of claws and teeth flashed among red. Then his voice echoed.

Suddenly she screamed. It was ear piercing that Judy's sensitive hearing made her leap ten feet! She and Roberta raced to the bed in worry.

"Courtney," shouted Judy gently shaking her shoulders. "Courtney wake up!"

"Honey," Roberta cried while she stroked her daughter's head. "It's only a bad dream!"

Bad dream? That was an understatement! Courtney at last bolted up, panting and trembling. It was all too evident it was a nightmare with how she had a sweated fringe.

"Honey," whispered Roberta comfortingly. "I'm here. It's okay."

Her child fell back and rubbed her face. Judy felt such compassion for her and all the other victims. She was sure they had these too.

"Sorry," said Courtney meekly.

"Don't apologize," said Judy. "Sounds like you were terrified." She sat next to her.

"Do you want some breakfast?" asked Roberta. "We were thinking of having some tea."

"Yeah," admitted Courtney. She swiped a paw across her nose. "Where's Nick?"

"He's at the ZPD," answered Judy. "Chief Bogo called for him."

Courtney seemed hurt. Her eyes became downcast and she sucked on her lower lip. It was all the more reason that Judy felt annoyed by Nick's actions from last night. She could see that Courtney wanted him nearby even if they weren't tight.

"Alright," Courtney finally said. She seemed to shake off the emotion.

"He'll be back," said Roberta trying to cheer her up. "In the meantime, I'm staying here."

"In your pajamas," chuckled Judy.

Roberta shook her head with a familiar grin. She wasn't easily embarrassed and only tightened the sash.

"Did I ever tell you the hospital gave me this when I had you?" she added. A twitch formed from Courtney's jaws and Roberta knew she had helped put her at ease. "We had been waiting a week for you to arrive and our doctor told us to come down to induce the labor…"


Chief Bogo was hunched over his desk. His mug was empty after the coffee and his eyelids were drooping. He couldn't believe the forensics report or the fact that a pair of pink calling cards was connected to a fellow officer. Clothes had been examined, the ladies' objects brushed for paw prints and databases researching. No missing report, but the prints matched with Hank Furlong and the victims.

"With all this evidence," he thought roughly. "Furlong ought to spill his guts."

"Hey Chief," said Nick who strolled on in. "You wanted to see me."

"Wilde," said Chief Bogo and he readjusted his reading glasses. "Hopps told me about your sister. I am so sorry for this case." He wasn't always this soft despite the serious tone. It seemed so foreign.

"She seems better," said Nick as he took a seat. "Mom came and now they're all huggy and bonding."

He was quite the contrast from hours before. He had seemed brooding at the hospital and now he seemed nonchalant. It would've been off-putting to Judy and Chief Bogo found it odd. Even in this situation he would expect Wilde to be more serious.

"Collars are being examined right now," Chief Bogo replied. "It's possible these came from a black market. I'm sure when your sister has the chance she can come in and give her testimony."

"What about Psychopathic Bear?" said Nick.

"Furlong. He's not talking. Besides that, I'm taking you to forensics."

The forensics could be described in one color; glaring white. It was like sunshine on snowbanks. It had its own labyrinth of rooms. Raman was waiting with a Snarlbucks cup. Even he had been chugging on coffee as if there was no tomorrow.

"Ah, Wilde," said the panther. "Quite the reveal with your sibling. We do have an update on the collars."

"And?" pressed Chief Bogo.

Raman swiped a paw for them to follow. In a smaller room a metal table contained several bags each with labels. Raman snapped on some gloves, zipped a bag open and one of those collars was pulled out. It wasn't held together. It was sticky from the tape with grey residue and the edges folded from the locks. It wasn't Courtney's. It was a little bigger and just happened to be Morgan's.

"You know for the collars used in 1st degree, they react to your pulse. These certainly did." Raman shook his head in disappointment from the discovery.

"If that's so," said Nick clearing his throat. "Then couldn't the girls keep steady breaths to prevent it?"

"That's not all," said Raman. His serious expression grew sad. He held up a bag with five small black remotes. "This was controlled. No doubt Furlong would've been playing with these. They wouldn't see it coming no matter how calm they could control themselves."

"Paw prints?" asked Chief Bogo.

"Swiped clean," said Raman. "He was covering all his tracks if these were found." He put the bag down on the table. He motioned for them to follow him again. "Of course, there were prints on the clothes and that's where we've found DNA from the girls, mostly fur. We did check the database and we got a match for each. Claire is the hyena and Morgan is the coyote. Lilly hadn't changed her identity and he know Courtney even without the search. We obviously know of Rachel and the one that doesn't have the tape or locks would be hers. It's also the smallest and most new."

"Strange how he had four predators and then wanted a prey," thought Nick.

The next room had the pink floral dress. Then sitting by it was the purse with all of Courtney's things. Nick tried to shake it off. He couldn't let his emotions get to him with his sister. All cases could be hard and they had been, but this was trying to make him crumble and he couldn't afford that. He had to maintain his composure for anything to be accomplished. Crying wasn't going to help his family or bring justice.

"Just get this figured out," he thought while Raman talked.

"We did have pictures taken and there's something we found," Raman continued. He went through a folder which had photographs of the walls and concrete floor. "Look closely there."

There were marks, slashes of different sizes scattered. Chief Bogo shook his head in disgust.

"I see claws marks all the time," said Raman. "Add it with the collars though, those seem to be from pain. The collars are of high voltage. We're lucky those girls weren't electrocuted to death. If Furlong won't talk of what happened, then we do need them to speak more than ever."

"We already have Rachel's," said Chief Bogo. "Did you get through the laptop?"

"Still working on it." Raman putting the photos down. "Not to mention Dr. Hudson sent the reports after examining them. They all have scars on their legs and arms. Necks are singed and sore red. Thankfully that's all the physical abuse there was. Nothing more."

That was a sudden flood of gladness. No creeper had tried forced mating on them, but that still didn't erase the crime. With more of the evidence, Nick felt all the more angry with Furlong and his resistance to confess. What more did he need to prove his guilt? What made Nick more curious was when Courtney was taken. Since he hadn't been in contact with her since he left home at eighteen, exactly when was she swiped off?

"I bet he stalked her until he knew her route," he noted to himself. "Probably acted like some poor idiot to take advantage of her kindness." He knew so well from his con-artist years what it took to fool others.

Yes, Courtney had a diva's attitude, but she was pleasant to strangers. She would've made a good Exploration Girl, the female equivalent of the Junior Ranger Scouts.

"We'll have to schedule meetings with each girl," said Chief Bogo was who writing a notepad. "Had word that Miss Kipp was eager to talk. Wilde, let your sister know we need to see her soon."

Meanwhile, Courtney had spent her day in the hospital, but it seemed like every other hour, a nurse was bringing up plushies or flowers for her that the counter shelf against the window was crammed. New clothes were brought in, simple jeans and tees. Some businesses had sent gift cards and coupons to the girls. There was even one for Mystic Springs Oasis.

By then Courtney, felt alright letting Judy go back to work, but secretly she wanted her to stay. She didn't like being alone, but she felt like a baby asking for someone. The TV wasn't good company even with some reruns of shows she liked. Dr. Hudson had come back and put a cloth bandage around her neck to help it heal.

"You'll need to come by for checkups, but this will do," he said. "Just take it off when you bathe and put a new one on. You're fur will grow back and nobody will see those scars."

Roberta had gone home to change and pick her daughter up. She was free for home and it was certain she would be comfortable there instead of the hospital.

During the afternoon, Courtney dozed off, but immediately shook herself awake. She even pulled her eyelids back comically to keep them open.

She didn't want to sleep again after that nightmare. If she could, she'd make sure she never had one again.

"Honey," Roberta said peeking into the room. "Ready for home?"

She nodded and her mother gave her a suitcase to pack.

"Wow," Roberta exclaimed. "Look at all this stuff! We'll need three cars!"

"Are we taking the bus?" asked Courtney when she zipped the case open.

"Nope," said Roberta. "Judy's taking us home. That's why she left. She wanted to organize all of you getting a safe lift home."

The suitcase was brimmed with new clothes, Roberta shoved the coupons in her purse and she asked for the flowers and toys to be sent to their apartment. Yes, the house she and John once lived in was sold years ago for the family to downsize along with their cars being sold.

"Alright! Ready to go?" Judy entered with a smile. Courtney could've hugged seeing her. "Let's get you home. There's no press outside, but I've got us parked in the back."

"Do I have to talk right now?" asked Courtney.

"Lilly's already down there," said Judy as she helped with a bundle of flowers. "Morgan was just picked up and will be there tomorrow. You can come in later."

"That's fair," Courtney agreed.

The two foxes and rabbit headed carefully for the back with a nurse wheeling Courtney out. It was brisk weather, but she didn't notice. Judy carefully drove them home. Roberta sat in the backseat with her child. Judy softly turned up some music and chatted.

"We've got more at forensics," she said. "If you want to go down you can take a look at it."

"I do," said Roberta sternly. "I want to know exactly what that beast had."

Courtney only gazed out the window. Pressing her head up, she watched Zootopia pass by. It didn't seem any different from when she left. Tall buildings in their artistic décor stood against the sunshine. Shadows grew across the street. Mammals casually passed as if nothing serious had happened.

Roberta watched her and hoped it would be alright. Nick was on the case, Courtney was heading home after three years and Judy had been such a loyal guardian. She was forever grateful to that. If only she could wipe away those bad things like she and John always wanted.


John and Roberta always wanted their children to look back and only see the happiest memories. That was why they never showed their financial issues. They were never rich, but they hadn't been broke either. Still every Sunday, they sat on their bed and looked over their data.

"Well Hon," said John looking over their spreadsheets. "We've got the school fees, a new baby, and doctor's visits and not to mention Nick's last dental appointment all in order."

"Not much though for your shop," sighed Roberta. "I'm sorry Johnny."

"Don't worry about it," he chuckled with a casual paw swipe. "We need to get a loan anyway for our third hot cross bun." He patted her huge belly.

"Can you go tomorrow?" asked Roberta. "I don't have payday for another week." She had chosen to not take maternity leave so soon.

"Of course. So are we going to be surprised again huh?" He smiled with that funny head tilt that made his wife snicker.

"Looks like it," she chuckled. "I've got some names in mind though. You?"

"Not yet Hon, but I will."

John picked the papers up, stacked and slipped them into the red folder which was labeled "Checking and Accounts." Roberta lay back and smoothed her paws over her belly which was the size of a soccer ball. John had spent the last couple of days looking for a loan.

"Hey when did the doctor say the due date was?" he asked as he turned off the light.

"March 23rd," answered Roberta.

"March 23rd?" exclaimed John. "That's in two days!"

"I've got it under control," calmed Roberta. "Suitcase is packed and emergency numbers are on the fridge."

"You're amazing Hon," John grinned and kissed her. "Our kids have a good future."

Of course the baby didn't arrive over a week later. John had to lead his wife down to the Sacred Savannah Hospital for induced labor. The kids were already donning backpacks and lunch boxes for school when they left.

"We'll give you a call when the baby is here," he promised as he hugged Heather. "You've got it all under control?"

"I'm a certified babysitter Dad," reminded Heather. "I didn't go through a training class for nothing."

"So our brother will be here today?" Nick asked for the hundredth time.

"We're sure of it," repeated Roberta lightly as she put on a light jacket.

"Alright Nickel," said John lifting him up. "Hug for me and Momma before we go."

Nick did and since Roberta couldn't hold him, he leaned over in his father's arms to embrace her neck.

"Have a good day," she said giving him a kiss on the cheek.

"I will," said Nick brightly.

"Let's go bro," said Heather as she headed for the garage.

Eagerly Nick took her paw and with a quick wave, the siblings walked down the next block until they turned the corner towards the elementary school. Their parents got into their van which was the same shade as a sunflower. The other vehicle sitting in the garage was the sports car that John got for his seventeenth birthday. It was a tomato red with a black racking stripe.

"It'll be different when Heather is in high school," sighed Roberta while she tried to fasten her seatbelt. "It's another five blocks and Nick won't be with her."

"Don't worry about that Hon," reassured John. "Besides, when I get the shop open I'll take them to school and you'll be with the baby until day care years."

"I know," said Roberta. She had been asked to take maternity leave from the office. "Just thinking aloud Johnny."

Then she stopped thinking when they parked at the hospital. She didn't process anything else except the incredibly long labor. It started at 8:30am and ended at 9:50pm with a screaming baby. John had fallen asleep and couldn't be waked after holding Courtney. He left early because he had an abrupt call from the bank about a loan. (Roberta had packed extra clothes for him just in case.) That's why he wasn't there when his kids arrived.

How did the it go? The meeting had been full blown garbage! They wouldn't give him anything because of his idea.

"Please," he said hoping he didn't sound too desperate. "Can't you give it another thought? I mean we don't have many suit shops and I come from a family of tailoring.

"Mr. Wilde," said Mr. Littleton. The lemming got up from his black office chair. "It's already declined."

John stared at the huge desk which contained the smaller one for Mr. Littleton.

"Listen," John said. "I don't do this often, but I'm begging you. My wife just had a baby last night, a little girl, and I need this loan for my family."

"Mr. Wilde," said Mr. Littleton as he lowered his spectacles down his nose. "There's nothing we can do."

"No, no!" John fumbled for his wallet and pulled out the little fold of pictures. "Look sir. See here? These are my two kids. That's Heather and Nick. That's my wife and…"

Mr. Littleton frowned and his usually sympathetic expression turned cold. He was usually a decent rodent until now. The creamy colored fur seemed to stand on end in annoyance.

"How can I trust you?" he suddenly said. "Are you just trying to take advantage of my kindness?"

"Pardon?" asked John.

"How do I know you've had a baby? Are those really your kids? I know how you foxes are; you're all cunning and shifty. You like to prey on mammals' humble nature for your gain! I liked you a bit, but you've really crossed a line."

John was slack jawed. The wallet dropped from his paws. He couldn't find the words.

"I wouldn't lie about this sir," he managed to utter.

"Dismissed," said Mr. Littleton firmly.

"But-"

"Dismissed or I will call for security to escort you out!"

John left with his tail trailing on the ground. He didn't know where to go except for the hospital. He had felt lower than dirt until he entered that room and saw his kids.

"Dad," Heather and Nick chorused softly. They raced for his hugs and he felt better.

"Here's the big brother and sister of the year," he joked. "How do you like Courtney?"

"Like her?" asked Heather. "I love her!"

"She hasn't cried yet," announced Nick.

"Don't jinx it Nickel," kidded John ruffling his ears. "How you feeling Hon?" he added when kissed Roberta.

"Better," she said. "Much better now that all my babies are here."

"And how are you little princess?" cooed John taking Courtney from her crib. "Oh you're a little princess already. Yes you are."

He noticed Roberta's particular glance, asking if the meeting went well. He gave a quick head shake pretending he was rubbing noses with Courtney.

"Hey kiddos," he said. "How about you go on down to the cafeteria for a frozen yogurt? They've got sprinkles, nuts and blueberries for toppings."

"Sure," said Heather who thought Roberta was going to deal with nursing. "Let's go Nick."

"Are you coming too?" he asked John.

"I'll be right there,' he promised his son. "Head on down Nickel."

When the children left he sighed and Roberta copied.

"Not well," she guessed.

"Nope," he answered. "He didn't believe me when I mentioned about having kids either. Looks like that shop I wanted will be empty a while longer."

"I should stay at work," suggested Roberta. She tugged her blanket back. "We need the money."

"What about the baby? You can't just stop and run home to nurse her or-"

"John." She got out of the bed and slipped on a bathrobe the hospital loaned to her. "When I married you, I promised we would support each other. Let me do this. You've done everything you could for us. Let me go an extra mile."

"You shouldn't be up," he said after a pause. He watched Courtney yawn.

"I can walk," she said. "I'm not an antique." She took Courtney in her arms. "Right now, I want you to go down with our kids, have a treat. I have nursing lessons, or really a recap of what I've done before, in another minute."

John slowly smiled and they kissed goodbye. "I'm proud of you," he added before closing the door.


Roberta always thought of those things before she slept. Her lamp would be dimmed and her peppermint tea slightly warm. It was the same brand John would buy her for birthdays and Christmas. She could hear neighbors playing music, having parties or rambunctious kids thanks to her hearing. She was ready to switch the light off when she heard that heartbreaking sound. She sprung out of bed and raced for Courtney's old room. Her child was screaming again, this time with her eyes shut and she tumbled from the bed. She started crawling.

"No! Please don't do it again!" Her wails pierced out.

"Honey," she cried kneeling and cradling her. "Courtney, it's okay! You're dreaming!"

Courtney's eyes snapped open and she hyperventilated. Her nightshirt and forehead were damp from sweat. She began to cry and buried her head into her mother's bathrobe.

"Sweetie it's alright," soothed Roberta. "Shhh."

"I'm sorry," she whimpered. "I'm sorry for waking you!"

"Don't you apologize." Roberta reached to the night table for Kleenex. Tenderly she wiped her daughter's eyes and face. "No shame in crying."She remained on the floor, holding her still.

"I don't feel safe," whispered Courtney.

"But you are," promised Roberta. "We've lived here for twenty-three years and we've always been safe." She felt her daughter shake her head. "Do you want to sleep in my bed?"

"No," mumbled Courtney. She was ashamed for her tears and seeming weak. Strong mammals didn't cry.

"It's okay if you do," reassured Roberta.

Courtney pulled away and crawled back into her bed. It felt so bizarre to be in her pink room with the flowery covers after being in the basement. She yanked the covers up so hard that they were untucked and her feet stuck out.

"I'll stay until you sleep," said her mother who sat on the bed. She rubbed her daughter's back through the blanket and started humming.

Courtney couldn't fall asleep though. She halfway closed her eyes and hoped it would convince her mom she was okay.

"I should be good now," she thought. "Yet why do I still feel bad?" She was just going to swallow it all back and act like she was doing better.


While that had been Courtney's unsettling night, Chief Bogo was having an interview with the most eager victim. Lilly Kipp was twenty-nine. She was every bit as toned as a tiger could be, especially since she had done kick boxing in high school. She only had her parents left for family and they were on vacation when the report was released. Now, fresh from the hospital like Courtney, she was showered, bandaged and sitting with Chief Bogo.

"Where do you want me to start?" she asked after sipping a cup of water.

"The day is all started," he said plainly. "What do you remember?"

"It was any other Saturday," said Lilly. "It was three years ago, late July. I called my stepdad and Mom since they were on that cruise. Just asked how it was going and that I was still deciding on that backpacking trip. Then I decided to go for my usual run."

"You said you were from Tundratown?" Chief Bogo interjected.

"Yes," she continued with a nod. Other than that, she hardly moved as if her body was disciplined to remain still. "I got my phone strapped as usual to my waist, earbuds, I grabbed a smoothie along the way and just jogged. I had just thrown my drink away when Hank or Furlong he's called pulled up by me. Said he didn't know where his teenage daughter was. I said sorry and asked if he called the cops. Said they did, but he was looking around too. He was almost a tearful mess so I felt bad and said I'd help. Got in the car and that's where it all went downhill."

"He doesn't have any children from our files." Chief Bogo frowned.

"Figured that later," said Lilly. "We got to his house. He thought she might've returned home and I said I'd stick around until he felt okay. We got inside and then sprayed me, you know with some repellent. I screamed and then he punched my lights out. When I came too, I was tied up in some room." She sighed her tail flicked nervously. "He was already sitting there in this pink bedroom and said if I didn't obey him, I'd be dead. I didn't believe him. He picked me up and then took me downstairs into the basement. I saw Courtney there. She was sitting in a corner with the collar. He just untied me and said he'd be back. I fought back whenever I could, but when he tranquilized me. Chief, every time I tried to fight, he'd shoot one of those darts. I guess after three months I gave up and just obeyed, but I always wondered what would happen if I tried something else."

Chief Bogo kept writing down notes and eyeing the recorder. Lilly kept on speaking. She talked about how she and Courtney were forced to change their names. She chose Beth because her mom was called Bethany. (She was so happy to be free that she casted away that name and told her real one to the cops.) She would talk to herself when alone, always saying Lilly. She mentioned how she'd hear some other voice, a male's, now and then. She thought Furlong had a friend who was in on it. Every other month, Furlong would hold a weapon to her throat and make her talk with her parents as if nothing was wrong. The fib was that she had gone on the backpacking trip after all and was going to do some more traveling.

"Mom and Dad have always wanted me to travel," she said. "So they didn't suspect a thing."

The collars came off once a month for a shower, but they became permanent a year ago. She wasn't sure why, but after another knockout she woke to find it taped and locked. She would be out cold often and then she'd have weird dreams of fighting.

By the end of the day, Lilly left having her side told and to her devastated parents who were relieved to have her back. What they didn't know was that Furlong had broken into their house and stole Lilly's belongings; her ID, clothes and other travel items to make it seem true. He covered all of this tracks ridiculously well. So Lilly's parents never suspected it. To wrap it up for the day, Chief Bogo had more evidence, but still not enough confessions. It would be another interviewing day tomorrow.


Roberta checked the calendar she had hanging by the pantry. It was past dusk and her blue checkered and yellow flowery kitchenette had just been cleaned from dinner.

"Two days since the hospital release," she thought.

Two days and Nick hadn't been in touch. He wasn't even talking to Judy let alone his family. Roberta was honestly speechless. She could comprehend the stress, but she'd think that he'd be calling up to check on Courtney.

That Monday evening, she heard a knock on her door and checked the peephole. She smiled seeing a familiar face.

"Judy come on in," she invited with the door ajar.

"Hi Roberta," said Judy cheerfully. She was out of uniform in a casual dress. "Just thought I'd check on our fox. All the girls are with their families again and I've been visiting them too."

"Saved the best for last," joked Roberta.

"I did," agreed Judy. "Is she doing any better?"

Roberta seemed to have aged in that split second. Her blue eyes had dark circles underneath, her auburn hair was uncombed and she had stuffed Kleenex in her pockets. Judy felt sorry for asking.

"Honestly Judy," she said leading her to the yellow themed kitchenette. "No. She doesn't sleep. She sits in her room and doesn't want to talk with me. If she does sleep, she has night terrors. She screams like someone is murdering her and I've caught her sleep crawling, not walking, crawling around while she sobs. I don't know what to do. I sit there until she rests. I make her tea to calm her. I ask if she wants to talk, but she says no. What am I doing wrong?"

Roberta leaned against the breakfast bar with her head down. Judy pulled up a stool and took her paw.

"You're not doing anything wrong," she promised. "Courtney is just trying to work through her grief."

"That's not all," Roberta said as she headed for the fridge. "When she wakes from those nightmares, she says she doesn't feel safe. I'm sorry, did you want something to drink?"

"Just some water please," Judy said. "What is she doing now?"

"Last I checked she was taking a shower." Roberta pulled out a pitcher of water since she got it from the tap. "I don't know what else I can do. I'm wondering if she should talk to a therapist or if you stayed over-" She paused wondering what kind of suggestion that was.

"I can spend the night," offered Judy cheerfully. Then her ears caught footsteps from the hallway.

Courtney slowly came in and walked for the fridge. She was in a pink nightshirt with her wet hair in a ponytail.

"Hi Judy," she said sweetly. "Just getting a snack."

"Honey we've been talking a little," said Roberta. "Honey?"

Courtney wasn't listening. She had the fridge door open and was leaning in, paws on her knees to see what was there. (A habit that Nick did too.) After a second, she grabbed a blue Tupperware of strawberries.

"Courtney would you like to have a sleepover?" asked Judy.

The fox's ears perked and her eyebrow cocked in confusion. Judy almost giggled at the funny sight of a strawberry sticking between her lips, mid-chewing.

"Sleepover?" asked Courtney taking the fruit out of her mouth.

"You're mom said you didn't feel safe, but maybe if I was here that'd help," offered Judy. "I would love to. I want you to feel okay." She noticed Courtney pressing her lips together uncomfortably.

"Am I bothering you?" she suddenly asked Roberta.

"No," said her mother pulling her into a hug. "You're not bothering me or anybody. I just want you to feel better. It won't happen overnight, but I want to help. Judy does too."

"Does Nick?" asked Courtney looking straight in her eyes.

"He does," said Judy jumping from her seat. "He's just looking over the case for all five of you."

It was evident though, Courtney was wondering why her brother wasn't nearby. So much so that Judy was ready to drag Nick down and bring him to the doorstep.

"If it's no trouble," said Courtney who began to eat again.

"No trouble," chuckled Judy. "It'll be fun. I'll just run to my apartment and get my stuff." She was pleased to see Courtney smiled.

It was depressing circumstances, but Judy wanted to keep it upbeat. When she returned, pajamas and all in a backpack, Roberta had blown up an air mattress for her. It was kind of exciting. Judy hardly did sleepovers as a child. If she did, it was with another rabbit that would have countless guests and it got a crowded. She couldn't talk about boys, watch a good movie or anything with that many rabbits because it wasn't as personal. If there was a sleepover at her house, it was because her older siblings had them and never wanted the younger ones around. Judy would either be babysitting with little brothers and sisters or in her room. This though would be different. Maybe she could get Courtney some good memories to expand on and maybe some secrets about Nick.

She changed clothes, ready for hopefully a nice night. However, Courtney was already in her bed, seemingly asleep. It was like she didn't have a guest over! Nothing left for Judy to do, but snuggle into her air mattress. After all, she was hear to help Courtney feel secure. Socializing would have to wait.

"Good night Courtney," she whispered.

"Night," the fox replied back.

Judy dozed into a wonderful sleep. She was seeing Nick. All around was a warm glow, soft and golden. His smile and charming eyes staring into her soul. When he leaned close, she felt his mouth slowly linger over her lips. Then slowly it seemed he was getting closer and then something distracted her. It started as a moan almost like a siren and then it exploded into a screech. That's when she bolted awake. Judy leaped onto the bed, but Courtney wasn't there.

"Courtney?" she said desperately. Then she saw her and gasped.

It was like a horror movie. In the moonlight streaming from the window, was Courtney crawling. She wasn't on her knees. She was on her back paws until she rolled over and kicked midair.

"No," she shrieked. "Don't! Don't put it on me!"

Judy madly rushed to her side and shook her hard.

"Courtney," she called. "Wake up!"

The warm hallway light flooded in with Roberta sliding to her knees. Then out of nowhere, Courtney's paw slapped Judy and knocked her to the floor. That's when her eyes snapped open.

"Honey," said Roberta sitting her up. "You were having another nightmare."

Courtney was bewildered as she rapidly craned her neck to check the room. Yes. It had been a dream. She wasn't in the basement with his eyes looming over her. Judy sat up and rubbed her right cheek.

"I'm alright," she said before Roberta could ask. "Not hurt. Courtney are okay? You were crawling around and-"

"Oh no," whimpered Courtney looking at her paws. "What did I do?" Her pink tank top was soaked at the rim with sweat like her hair and face. She looked at Judy in fear.

"Courtney," said a concerned Judy. "I'm okay. Don't worry about me. What about you?" She really felt fine. One slap to the face was nothing compared to a boxing match at the police academy training or Gideon Grey's claws.

Courtney though shrunk back, out of her mother's grip and towards her closet door. She shook her head.

"Honey do you want to tell us about your dream?" asked Roberta. "Do you want some water?"

"No," cried Courtney. "He was going to get me!"

"Furlong can't get you," reassured Judy who was walking over to pat her head. "He's in prison."

"Don't come near me," shouted Courtney. "I can't do that again!" She pointed to Judy's face.

"Sweetie its-" began Roberta as she inched closer to her.

"Don't!" Courtney sobbed. "Just don't! Leave me alone!"

Judy tried getting closer, but Courtney would just scoot backwards and not look at her. Roberta seemed like she was ready to burst into tears and hurried out of the room.

"Courtney," asked Judy softly. "What would make you feel safe?" She waited for an answer, but her new friend only stared into the dark corner. "I think I know what you want. You want Nick here."

"Be nice if he stopped by," Courtney muttered. "I don't need him here, but I shouldn't…"

"No shouldn't," corrected Judy. She reached into her backpack for her cell. "We're calling him up."


While Judy had gone to fetch her pajamas and toothbrush, Chief Bogo was listening to the recordings from Morgan. The coyote had arrived with her family in tow. Her stepmom was her primary family. She had demanded to not leave her stepdaughter alone even with Francine talking with Morgan. Chief Bogo's hooves skimmed over the play button and listened again.

"My blind date had been terrible," Morgan's voice said. "I was sitting on a park bench all alone and then he came up. He asked if I was okay and like an idiot I poured out my story. I had actually seen him a couple of times at the gas station I work at and we'd have small talk."

"Did he say anything else?" asked Francine.

"He offered to get me a drink," continued Morgan. "Nothing alcoholic or stuff. Just a soda or shake. I guess after that nasty breakup a month before and trying to get back in the groove, I wanted some attention. My stepmom is always on business trips. My dad has been dead since I was nine. All other family I have are so distant, I guess I was just lonely."

"It's understandable," said Francine kindly. "What did he do next?"

"We went through a drive thru for shakes. I thanked him and he said it was no problem. Said he didn't have any kids so he liked to treat others when he could. I didn't feel scared around him. He said he'd drive me home and even offered me some cookies."

"Cookies?"

"Yeah. He had been grocery shopping. He offered me a package of dunkers. You know, that kind with the icing center? We were traveling down the route of my house, but then I fell asleep. When I woke up, I was tied up and he told me to be quiet. I was in this pink room. It was dark, but I can see pretty well. The next thing I knew he told me to pick a new name."

Chief Bogo clicked the tape off and sighed. The reports were different so far on how he kidnapped the girls. With Lilly, he was acting like he was looking for his child. Morgan he had met before and betrayed her trust. He must've had some drug in the cookies. Rachel had been looped into thinking she was helping a fragile bear and walked right into his house!

He checked over the list. Courtney still hadn't come in, but Claire was coming in that afternoon after reuniting with her grandmother.

This case was taking a toll on him. He didn't have children, he could be strict and he didn't act emotional, but he did care deep down. Seeing the information, so far all the girls came from small families and had been held hostage to lie right on the phone about where they were.

Furlong had no criminal record and was a librarian. Several of his co-workers had already given their statements. They had no clue he was doing this. All they said was that he was quiet, but polite to all customers. They were disgusted by his arrest and feeling shame for not picking up on anything suspicious. That's the thing though with criminals. They can hide easily.

"No surprise with Assistant Mayor Bellwether," the chief thought as he recalled the past year's case.

He adjusted his glasses and checked the clock. It was getting late. The shadow of a fox passed by his office door. Nick was heading back home, file under arm for another long night. Even Chief Bogo was wondering why Wilde wasn't seeing his sister.

"Wilde?" he called.

Nick slipped inside with a tired expression. "Yes?" he asked.

"You don't have to come in tomorrow," said Chief Bogo. "You can stay with your sister."

"I was out from the flu," said Nick who seemed to be inching to leave.

"Yes, but she is your family," added his chief.

"Visiting her won't solve the case," said Nick sternly. "Now I have another file of photos to examine thanks to Raman so goodnight."

He closed the door, almost slamming it and left Chief Bogo speechless. Clawhauser was looking over his phone when Nick passed the front desk.

"Hey Nick," he said cheerfully. "The crew is getting a card together for the girls. Do you think they'd like a jumbo Gazelle card? It's all pink."

"Wow a card," said Nick sarcastically. "Doesn't that sound like the perfect medicine?"

"Well we just want to show that we care," said Clawhauser was slightly taken aback. "Did you want to pick a certain one for you sister? Nick?"

He didn't respond. Nick only trudged for home, not bothering for the bus or subway. He was so sick of people asking how his sister was.

"How do you think she's doing?" he wanted to say. "She's been missing for three years!"

For the past two nights, he retreated for his spare room in the townhouse and looked over every photograph of Courtney's attire and collar as well as the rest of the girls'. He had notes down on what happened or where the collars might have come from. He kept thinking he was missing something. Lilly had mentioned that sometimes when bored, she was scratching the floor. Morgan mentioned how she sometimes when she slept, she was wake to see marks on the floor from her paws. Claire and Courtney were left.

Sitting in his spinning office chair, Nick undid the tie and clicked on the desk lamp. It was so quiet that even his breathing was loud. Then his phone played a song by CrashinWolf, one of his favorite bands. Judy's number popped up.

"Hey Carrots," he said pressing the phone between his ear and shoulder.

"Nicholas?"

"Mom?" he said in surprise.

"Judy and I are on speaker," explained Roberta. "Listen; can you do us a favor?"

"Not a favor," said Judy. "An order. Courtney wants to stay with you."

"Why?" asked Nick. "Mom isn't giving her enough hugs?"

Of course he wasn't trying to be rude, but Roberta's tone was clearly upset.

"Quit your smart mouth Nicholas," she said. "Courtney needs you. She may not say it, but it's true. Every time she has nightmare, she says she doesn't feel safe here even with Judy spending the night."

"Actually she should stay in your house," added Judy.

Nick didn't want to be off-putting, but looking after Courtney wasn't going to solve the case. In fact, he was a little annoyed with her for not talking yet. Every time she was called, she would say she didn't feel ready. He did want to help, but what about her part in it?

"Come down here," demanded Judy. "If you don't I will come to your house and drag you here myself!"