Hey everyone welcome to Chapter 21, This chapter is a Judy chapter and it was rather difficult to write and took wayyyyy too long, but it's here now for you and I can hopefully get another chapter out in a more timely manner. I'm glad most of you liked the field metaphor and got some emotional response from it, I wasn't sure how it was going to be received but when inspiration strikes what can you do but let it happen.
I am also proud to announce that this story now has 300 Followers! Not a huge number I know, but it's cool to think about that 300 people get notified when I put out a chapter.
A note for this chapter - I in the past have used "Zollars" as the currency for the story. It has come to my attention that they did use Dollars in the movie, so from now on I will also use Dollars, and I will go back in my story and change Zollars to Dollars to fix my little mistake.
Another Note is that I'm using NYPD police codes since I have used the NYPD as a template for the ZPD in this story, that's why I used their codes as opposed to the "10 police codes" other stories use so that's where the 10-63 comes from
As Always I have two people to thank for adding some ideas for this chapter and making it significantly better, so give thanks to
Anteroinen - He catches plot holes and adds logic when I go off the rails,
and
LakesideMiners - He gives me helpful and fun suggestions
AN: Thanks as always to my other editor's SaberGatomon and Toren6000.
AN PT2: You all should know by now that i'm gonna respond to some comments now.
coolpotato101 - Well you didn't have to wait too long lol. I'm also glad you decided to stick it out until I got better and I also appreciate the kind words. Hope you continue to enjoy! P.S I'll never stop suggesting music so I'm glad someone's enjoying it.
WildeTalez - Thanks man, and No worries I will keep going. This story has already taken waaayyy longer than I thought it would but the only thing that's gonna stop me is death... or getting sued by Disney.
OORAH - Thanks for the high praise man. As for if I've heard it before or not it doesn't matter, I appreciate it all the same, I use these comments to motivate me and remind myself that people are enjoying and waiting for more, so just say whatever you want to say I read every comment made. Also I do enjoy the song suggestions, I particularly like Wake Me Up Inside. It was a great collaboration for the two bands.
Story Writer .2015 - Glad you enjoyed it, and yes I thought ending the mini arc on a good note was what needed to happen, Nick has to get some wins lol.
GhostWolf88 - Welcome to the story and thanks for reading. As for when one of them will admit their feelings is a mystery even to me, Nick's pretty cautious, plus they're rather far apart from each other at the moment. But I promise that day will eventually come.
AnimeKing7777 - Glad to hear you enjoyed it. As for Stu finding out first, well I gotta keep you on your toes somehow, plus he's smarter than most give him credit for in my opinion. Anyway thanks for reading and commenting so consistently and I hope you enjoy the chapter.
One Last thing before I go. I know that the start of my story is lacking in many aspects and I have thought about re-doing it a few times but I didn't because I wanted to keep it as a marker of progress. But I wanted to ask you, the readers what you think, it would take some time and might delay future chapters but it would make it better for new readers and re-readers. Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Now please enjoy chapter 21.
Disclaimer - Well the Binary Disclaimer worked out since I'm still not being sued... either that or Disney doesn't even know I exist... Either way to avoid their eternal wrath and appease the mouse I leave a wheel of cheese and these words. "I don't own Zootopia, it's characters, it's universe, or anything I haven't personally created"
hopefully that keeps me out of legal trouble, but if not... well it's been fun.
Chapter 21 – Et tu, Judy?
Precinct 1 Lobby, Savannah Central, Monday Morning, 8:00am
The lobby of Precinct 1 was bustling as usual, Cops and civilians filling the massive space as they went about their business. Some wore expressions of indifference, some were angry or sad and some were even laughing and smiling, but one mammal's expression stood out. It was Judy who entered the building with a huge smile on her face and a skip in her step that was noticed by everyone in the building. As Judy walked up to the front desk, she made sure to greet everyone she passed and was surprised to see that almost everyone responded with a smile and a greeting of their own.
"Good morning Clawhauser." Judy greeted happily as she approached the front desk where the pudgy cheetah was happily munching on some cereal.
"Oh, good morning Judy, you seem extra peppy this morning." Clawhauser greeted her, food still in his mouth.
"It's just another great day for making the world a better place. Plus, everyone is greeting me back now, unlike my first week." Judy replied, as she gave a wave to Fangmeyer who was passing by.
"Well, you changed a lot of mammals minds when you solved two of the biggest cases in ZPD history."
"I didn't really do all that much. Plus, I wasn't alone." Judy said dismissively.
Clawhauser just smiled, this was what Judy always said when asked about the case, before going into great detail explaining how much Nick, her fox friend, had helped.
"Say what you will Judy, but you gained a lot of respect because of that. So, how was your weekend?" Clawhauser asked, not wanting Judy to go off like she normally did.
"Oh, my weekend was fine; I went home to visit my family." Judy said as her already bright smile got even brighter. "I even brought Nick along to show him around!"
"That sounds like fun, I bet he loved that. I remember taking every chance I could to get away from the academy grounds." Clawhauser said, managing to keep a straight face despite the massive squeal echoing across his mind. EEEEHHHHHHH. Oh Em Goodness, I can't believe she took him home to meet her family, they're totally dating.
"Yeah, it was great! I showed him the town and the farm, he got to meet my family and play with some of the kits, they even got along really well." Judy explained with a smile, deciding to omit the less happy details of the trip.
"Sounds like fun, I'm glad you and Nick got to spend some time together. I know you were missing him quite a bit." Clawhauser said slyly.
"Well, he is my best friend." Judy said dismissively, hoping the gossipy cheetah wouldn't get any ideas.
"Now I gotta get going or else I'll be late to roll call. See ya' later, Clawhauser!"
"Bye Judy!" Clawhauser yelled to her retreating form.
As Judy disappeared around the corner and out of sight Clawhauser quickly pulled out his phone and frantically started typing out a message to Wolford and Fangmeyer.
Clawhauser: OMG guys I just found out some BIG news!
Wolford: Clawhauser I'm really not interested in a hearing about a new Gazelle song right now.
Fangmeyer: I'm at roll call, this better be good.
Clawhauser: Nonononononono guys this is about Nick and Judy, this weekend she took him home to meet her family!
Wolford: Wow, that is big. Looks like someone is going to win this bet : )
Fangmeyer: This is definitely interesting, but you haven't won anything yet Wolfie, this is only bad for those who bet against their possible relationship.
Clawhauser: I don't care who wins as long as they get together they are TOO CUTE! But remember the terms of the bet. Wolford's group wins if they are currently dating, Fangmeyer and her group wins if at least one of the two admits having feelings for the others, and the Nay-sayers win if neither of them have romantic interests in the other.
Fangmeyer: Yah yah yah, we remember. Now I need to put my phone away before Bogo shows up.
With the information dispersed Clawhauser put his phone down and went back to happily eating his cereal, his mind filled with thoughts of Gazelle, food, and how cute Nick and Judy would look as a couple.
The Bullpen minutes later…
As Judy entered the bullpen, she noticed it was as rowdy as ever, a tiger and a lion playing punch for punch, a group of wolves laughing at some unheard joke, and Officer Francine was playing keep away with a rhino and a polar bear, somehow managing to keep both at bay while holding their phones high above her head in her trunk.
As she walked along the row of oversized chairs and desks Judy was greeting Officers left and right, having finally managed to get everyone's names and faces down. After arriving at her unofficial assigned seat and effortlessly jumping onto it, Judy then took a minute to fire off one last text to Nick before the work day.
Judy: Hey Slick I know you're not going to need it but good luck today!
Judy didn't even have time to put her phone away before Nick had replied.
Nick: Thanks Fluff, be safe out there alright, I can't lose my inside source to the Hopps Family blueberries.
As Judy read the message she couldn't hold back a little giggle, I can't wait until he graduates then we can joke in person instead of over the phone. Judy thought to herself as she pictured what it would be like, we'd probably share this chair, we'd get to sit right next to each other maybe a bit closer than mammals normally would, Judy mused, Nick would probably try and antagonize Bogo and get everyone to laugh even if it got him yelled at. Nick just needs to graduate already! Then we can ride around the city helping mammals and making the world a better place!
"Morning, Hopps." A booming voice greeted, breaking Judy from her daydream. It was Officer McHorn, the rhino who sat next to Judy, and to the rabbits surprise the normally stone-faced Officer was holding out his hoof for a fist bump.
"Ready to make the world a better place?" McHorn asked, the corner of his lips turned up in a slight smile which Judy happily mirrored.
"Good morning to you as well, Officer McHorn, and I was born ready." Judy replied as she bumped her tiny paw against his.
"Good."
"Good Morning to you as well Fangmeyer." Judy called out to the Tigress who seemed engrossed in her phone, hastily texting on her phone.
"Yeah…good morning Hopps." Fangmeyer replied absently.
"You should put the phone away before Bogo shows up," a Lion sitting behind Fangmeyer said as she continued texting away.
"Just a second…. Aaannnd done." Fangmeyer said as she quickly slammed her finger down on the send button and threw her phone in her pocket as Higgins cried out.
"Atten-Hut!" and every mammal in the room began pounding on their desks, as Bogo approached the podium, assignments at the ready.
"Alright, Alright…. ENOUGH." Bogo roared, instantly quieting down the rowdy police mammals before passing out assignments to everyone until only Judy and Fangmeyer were left.
"Hopps you'll be on patrol with Officer Fangmeyer this week while Officer Wolford is on leave for Pack Week. Fangmeyer is one of our most experienced officers so I expect you to follow her lead and learn as much as you can." Bogo explained gruffly.
"Understood sir." Judy replied eagerly, giving a crisp salute which Bogo returned before walking back to his office.
"Welp, it looks like we'll be working together for the next week. I'm looking forward to learning from you." Judy said with a smile.
"Happy to have you along, Hopps. I'm sure we'll both learn a lot from each other. Now, let's get to the motor pool so we can get this patrol started." Fangmeyer said enthusiastically as she pulled out her phone and sent one last text.
Fangmeyer: I'm working with Judy this week, so we'll have an answer by the end of the workday Friday if not sooner.
Clawhauser: Ooohhh, good luck!
Wolford: Get ready to pay up then. I'll expect cash in my paw on Monday morning.
Savannah Central, Unnamed City Street, 12:30pm, Monday Afternoon
Judy and Fangmeyer had a relatively uneventful first half of the day; they drove around the city streets in search of crime but found nothing. As they drove, the two filled the empty hours with conversation; they talked about many things spanning a wide array of topics, everything from police work to personal matters. They discussed their weekends, Judy once again omitting the less pleasant details while Fangmeyer described the fascinating world of apartment decoration, complete with a tutorial on the best way to get dried paint out of one's fur. Eventually their discussion was interrupted by the low growling of Fangmeyer empty stomach.
"Well, it sounds like it's time for lunch," Fangmeyer joked as she picked up the cars radio.
"Dispatch, Car 113Z, request to go 10-63"
"Car 113Z this is Dispatch, you are cleared for a 30-minute lunch, enjoy your break," Clawhauser's gargled voice replied over the radio.
"Awesome, there's a fantastic sandwich shop a block away. They also do salads that I hear are pretty good, if that's ok with you." Fangmeyer said as she started the car letting the engine roar to life.
"Works for me, lucky we're close by," Judy commented as they pulled onto the street.
"Nothing lucky about it Judy, as cops we don't have much time to eat so a good trick is to be right next to the place where you want to eat. It also works to force your partner into eating where you want since there isn't much time to find a new place,"
"Ooooohhhh that's good, I'll have to remember that when Nick and I start working together,"
"Stick with me bunny and I'll show you all the tips and tricks to this job," Fangmeyer said with a chuckle.
After a minute of driving, a minute to find a spot, and another five minutes to order and get their food the two finally sat down and dug into their food, chatting pleasantly while they ate. Their lunch was interrupted however when a rabbit buck around the age of 24 approached their table.
"Good afternoon Officers, I'm sorry to bother you but I noticed that you're Judy Hopps, the first rabbit in the ZPD and I just had to come over and say hello." The buck said with a charming smile.
Judy gave the buck a quick once over, he was decent enough looking, reasonably fit for a bunny, all brown fur with a few white spots on his ears and wearing blue jeans and a black tee shirt. Here we go again, Judy thought with a sigh as she put on a smile of her own.
"Yep that's me, Judy Hopps. It's a pleasure to meet you mister…"
"Skipps, Josh Skipps, and the pleasure is all mine I assure you." The buck said as he stuck his paw out.
As Fangmeyer watched the two rabbits interact she could tell from Judy's body language that she was not interested in the slightest, but what Fangmeyer noticed right away seemed to fly right over Skipps head, and after five excruciatingly long minutes of attempted flirting Skipps finally made his move.
"So Judy, I'm sure your suuuuper busy with work and all, but I'd love to go out to dinner with you sometime-"
"As much as I'd like to, I don't know when I'd be free…" Judy said politely.
"I bet, I bet." Josh said dismissively, "Well here's my phone number, give me a call when you're free." Josh said confidently as he handed a slip of paper before strutting out the door.
"Yeah, no thank you." Judy said as she crumpled up the paper and tossed it into the trash.
"Well, that was interesting." Fangmeyer said after taking a long sip from her drink.
"It was awful, I know." Judy sighed. "And now I've completely lost my appetite." Judy said as she pushed away her mostly finished salad.
"I bet." Fangmeyer agreed as she finished her sandwich.
"But why didn't you give him a shot? He could have been a nice guy. I mean I don't know what bunnies find physically appealing, but he was at least confident enough to come talk to you so that's gotta count for something."
"Yeah, his confidence was definitely commendable, but he doesn't seem like the kind of guy I'd want to date." Judy said as she started spinning her straw around her cup.
"That may be true but you won't know for sure unless you try, I mean what's the harm? You're both young and single, and if the date ends poorly you both can part ways and ever see each other again." Fangmeyer reasoned.
"You sound like my mother, Fangmeyer," Judy joked, "I just don't want to waste my time on random bucks especially since they all end up wanting the same thing."
"Tell me about it Hopps; Males are all the same, no matter the species."
"It's more than that with bunny bucks though. If it was just sex it would be a bit more bearable but every relationship I've ever been in ended because the guy wanted me to give up on being a cop so I could stay home and start a family, and that's not something I was willing to give up on." Judy said frustratedly.
"I mean if I found the right guy I wouldn't mind eventually starting a family, but not right now or anytime in the near future." Judy continued, her tone getting softer as she looked off into the distance longingly and imagined what a family with Nick would be like; The small three-bedroom house in the suburbs, sitting on the couch together watching crime dramas, and even the pitter patter of little paws on hardwood floors…
"Ahem, Hopps." Fangmeyer said, clearing her throat and breaking Judy from her daydream.
"Oh, ah, sorry I spaced out a little, what were you saying?" Judy asked as she tried to hide her embarrassment and ignore the heat rising to her face and ears.
"I asked what the right guy would look like?"
"Excuse me?"
"Well, you said you'd settle down with the right guy, so I wanted to know what type of guy that would be?"
"Oh I don't know… I mean I'm sure I'd know when I meet him, but I don't have any specifics." Judy said dismissively.
"Malarkey." Fangmeyer said bluntly, "Don't lie to me Hopps. Every mammal has a type and knows what they want in a mate, so spill it."
"…Fine you got me. I'm just not used to talking about this stuff; I never paid males any mind when I was younger since I had a dream to focus on so I was usually left out of conversations like this," Judy explained plainly.
"But if I was being pressured for an answer by a rather pushy tigress," Judy said with a smile, "I would say I'd want a guy who is supportive of my dreams and is willing to help me achieve them. He'd also need to be loyal, brave, kind, and the type of mammal who's there for me, to make me happy when I'm sad, and is not afraid to tell me when I'm wrong."
"So Nick then," Fangmeyer said with a smirk. I got her now, Fangmeyer thought to herself as Judy's face dropped and her ears turned an even deeper shade of red.
"Wh-What in the world gave you that idea, Nick doesn't fit that description at all," Judy said, managing to reign in her emotions.
"Judy, from what I hear, Nick fits everything you just said,"
"Psssshhhh, no he doesn't…"
"Oh really," Fangmeyer said, eyebrow raised skeptically.
"Let's see, everyone in the Precinct has heard of the fox who stood up to Bogo for you when you were about to lose your job, so loyalty is a check, and if that's not enough he also stood up to the media for you even though you said he didn't even want to be there," Fangmeyer explained, cutting off Judy's rebuttal.
"Now onto bravery; I don't know about you but I think a mammal that was willing to go through both the Night Howler case and the Missing Mammals case with no weapons or training would be considered brave,"
"You have a point there,' Judy said, unable to refute the tigress.
"Great. Now, as for kindness, you told me about how he forgave you for what you said and has constantly been going out of his way to make sure you're alright so I think that's another check, and after you said those things at the conference he told you off for it so telling you when your wrong is also a check." Fangmeyer continued as Judy sat there speechless shrinking back into her seat.
"Now as for making you laugh; I've seen that first pawed, and he's so supportive of you and your dream that he's going through the hell of the ZPA just so he can stand by your side. So, in the face of all that evidence, can you really tell me that Nick is not your kind of male?"
Judy hung her head; she knew she had only one way to counter and as much as she didn't want to, she knew it was the answer that was expected.
"Heh heh, I guess you have a point there Nick fits that description pretty well. Too bad he's a fox; I mean, there's no way a fox and a bunny would date, that would be bizarre. Although it is kinda funny to think about." Judy said, forcing a smile and a fake laugh.
I don't want to say this but it's for the best. I want Nick to have a place in the ZPD and if others found out about my feelings it would inconvenience him too. So I'll deny it, no matter how much it hurts, that way he'll be safe from those who would oppose how I feel, Judy thought sadly.
"A bunny falling in love with a fox would be unnatural." Judy whispered, her false cheer falling flat as her ears came down against her back.
"Oh Judy." Fangmeyer whispered back compassionately.
"You're not fooling me with a sad attempt like that. I've been aiming for detective since I joined the force but even if I was a schmuck off of the street, I could still tell you're not being honest."
"I have no idea what you're talking about." Judy said firmly as she got herself under control.
"Judy there's nothing wrong with a bunny falling for a fox, or an elephant falling for a rhino; love is love. We don't choose who we fall for and even if we don't want to, love has a way of sneaking up on mammals. There's nothing unnatural about how you feel because we mammals are helpless against love, no matter how much we struggle against it." Fangmeyer explained, her tone distant and sad.
"You sound like your talking from experience." Judy said sympathetically.
"Nah, I just watch too much tv." Fangmeyer lied.
"Oh, I see. Well, I appreciate the advice Fangmeyer, but I don't have a thing for Nick so let's talk about something else alright?" Judy asked, deciding to shift topics for her own sake.
But as the two made their way back to the cruiser the conversation stagnating Fangmeyer was struggling with whether or not to tell Judy the truth. On one paw, it would probably get her to open up about her relationship, but on the other paw, I really don't want to share because what if she actually doesn't like Nick. Fangmeyer continued contemplating this as she and Judy continued their patrol in a now quiet car.
30 Minutes later…
"Urrrgggghhhh, Fine." Fangmeyer growled as she gripped the steering wheel tightly.
"Uuuhhh, what?" Judy asked, confused at the sudden outburst.
"Sorry Hopps. I've just been thinking, and I'd like to make a deal with you." Fangmeyer said as she relaxed a little.
"What kind of deal?" Judy asked warily.
"An equal exchange of information, I will tell you who I have feelings for and then you'll do the same, how does that sound?"
"I don't know…" Judy said nervously, "It's probably better if you don't tell me..."
"It's Derek." Fangmeyer blurted, not giving it a second thought.
"…Who?"
"You know, Derek… Wolford," Fangmeyer whispered embarrassedly.
"No Way!" Judy exclaimed, covering her mouth with her paws. "When did this happen?" Judy asked, her words muffled slightly by her paws.
"I honestly couldn't pinpoint the exact moment, even if I wanted to. We were in the same class in the academy; back then we somehow became rivals, competing at everything. We were pretty evenly matched, and I admired and respected him as my rival." Fangmeyer explained thoughtfully as she reminisced about the past.
"Eventually, we graduated, and I beat him to valedictorian by one point. Then, we were both assigned to Precinct One and we eventually ended up becoming partners. During that time we've laughed together, cried together and protected each other, growing closer and closer the entire time until one day I realized I was in love with the fool. Hopelessly, and happily in love with the wolf who can drive me up the wall with frustration."
"That's really, really sweet Fangmeyer." Judy said before taking in and letting out a deep breath. "Now I guess it's my turn."
"You don't have too Judy, I feel bad forcing you into this, just promise you'll keep what I just told you between us."
"No, it's ok, I mean you pretty much called me out on it anyway, I'm in love with, but not dating, Nick Wilde, my snarky, foolish, irritating, fox best friend."
"I KNEW IT!" Fangmeyer shouted, causing Judy to jump in her seat slightly.
"Have I really been that obvious about it?" Judy asked nervously.
"I wouldn't say you've been obvious about it, but you aren't exactly hiding it either; then again I'm pretty perceptive. Now, tell me everything."
So Judy did, she explained how she started getting closer to Nick throughout both cases and the time they spent together, how it took prompting from a friend to get her to realize what her feelings were, and how now she was just waiting, trying to figure out Nick's feelings.
"That's really sweet Judy, and while I might not know Nick all that well I think you've got a shot with him," Fangmeyer added after Judy had finished her story.
"Thanks, Fangmeyer. I hope you're right, and good luck with Wolford; I think you two would look good together."
"I appreciate that, Judy, but I'm not going to pursue a relationship with him, it's for the best if we just remain friends," Fangmeyer said sadly.
"And before you say anything," Fangmeyer said, cutting Judy off before she could start speaking, "Canines and Felines have too much bad blood for a relationship to work."
"And I know it sounds hypocritical since I was just encouraging you to try your luck with Nick but feline-canine relationships are worse than fox-bunny ones. I mean, yeah, foxes used to eat bunnies when we were savages, but once mammals started becoming civilized that all changed. Felines and Canines on the other paw continued their fights and disagreements until about 100 years ago." Fangmeyer continued, talking faster and faster, countering Judy's points despite her not having a chance to voice them.
"You done?" Judy asked, her voice soft and free of judgement.
"Yes."
"Good. Now listen, if you're going to advise others you should have the courage to follow your own advice. I know that it might be hard but if you do truly love Wolford, then you owe it to yourself to try. Right?"
"You may have a point," Fangmeyer begrudgingly agreed, "but if I'm going to try, then so are you!"
"What?"
"Let's make a deal Hopps; we both agree to ask out the dumb males we've fallen for, and we'll support each other no matter the outcome. Sound like a deal?" Fangmeyer asked as she stuck out her paw.
"Deal." Judy said with a smile as she grabbed Fangmeyer's massive paw with her own and shook.
"But I'm going to wait until after Nick graduates to tell him. I think it's better if he focuses on training since the academy can be hard enough without extra things on you mind."
"Good idea, now we have a patrol to finish." Fangmeyer said enthusiastically as a speeding car shot past their cruiser.
Walking home through Savannah Central, 6:45pm
Judy had decided to walk back home after work, having an excess of energy leftover from the day. As she strolled down the street Judy took her time, looking at the surrounding area, the shops and other buildings that lined the streets as well as the mammals she passed. As she turned the corner, she found a gym. The gym looked rather plain, with a faded yellow and red sign with a cartoony muscled tiger that told her the place was called "Average Joe's". The exterior was a basic brick square, with its only defining feature being how dirty and graffitied the walls were, making the building look almost abandoned. What had caught Judy's attention however wasn't the graffiti or even the sign, but one van that was sitting in the parking lot. A van with a familiar paint job of a brown wolf with a massive sword on his back holding a swooning white vixen as lighting struck behind them, which Judy recognized instantly.
"I know that van." Judy remarked as she quickly changed direction and headed to the parking lot.
As soon as Judy reached the van she gave three solid knocks on the door, and after a minute of silence she gave a few more, continuing until finally she heard a voice yell out.
"Who the hell is pounding on my van?!" Finnick roared as he came around the side of the car his teeth bared, and his fists clenched.
"Hey Finnick," Judy said nervously as Finnick's mask of rage dropped and was replaced with a profound look of confusion.
"What the hell are you doing here, bunny cop?" Finnick asked as he rubbed his eyes to make sure he was seeing straight.
"I was walking home and I spotted your van. I was curious so I came over, and figured I could say hello and see how you were doing."
"I'm fine," Finnick said bluntly.
"That's good, so what brings you to this gym?" Judy asked, trying to keep the conversation going.
"I'm getting ready for work."
"I see…. So, why at a gym?"
"I live in a van." Finnick said curtly.
"Yeah, I figured that out," Judy shot back.
"Wouldn't be much of a cop if you couldn't, but anyway I have no shower in this van so I got a membership at this gym, for 15 dollars a month I can work out and shower whenever I want since the owner lives here and runs it 24/7."
"Oh, that makes sense."
"I know it does, that's why I do it. Can't take credit for the idea tho; your boyfriend was the one who came up with it." Finnick said gruffly as he opened the back of his van, hopped in and closed the door behind him.
"Nick's not my boyfriend." Judy yelled to the now shut doors.
"Yeah, yeah, whatever you say." Finnick yelled back, "Now, what did you really want, since I really doubt you came here just to ask about me."
"I really did just come to see how you were doing, but since you seem hell bent on stone-walling that conversation would you mind telling me more about Nick?" Judy asked cautiously.
Silence was the only reply Judy got from the van aside from the occasional squeak of the suspension as Finnick moved around the back, until after a few minutes the doors opened once again revealing a Finnick sporting a white apron and a look of doubt.
"What's going on here?" Finnick asked, clearly suspicious.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, if you want to know about Nick, you could ask him yourself, so he's either already told you and you're looking to see if he's lying, or he won't tell you. Both possibilities end with my tail in the fire if I tell you, so you see my concern." Finnick explained, still looking at Judy like she was trying to sell him volcano insurance.
"I-I-I-It's not like that," Judy stammered, putting up her paws defensively. "I just want to know more about him, I mean, it's impossible to get him to talk about himself so I thought you could help me, b-b-but if you're going to get in trouble then just forget about it. Maybe you could just tell me about fox culture instead?"
Finnick's expression turned from suspicion to joy in an instant as a barking laughter erupted from his muzzle. Judy could do nothing but stand there as Finnick laughed and laughed, her nervousness slowly becoming annoyance as her foot began thumping against the ground.
"Ahahahahahaha, I'm sorry bunny cop but that was too funny," Finnick said, calming himself down. "Do you really want to know about "fox culture"? I mean really, why would you want to spend your time off with me, learning about the traditions of long dead mammals."
"I do though. I mean, you're not the most pleasant mammal in the world." Judy said jokingly getting a chuckle and a "You got that right," from Finnick.
"I still want to learn as much as I can." Judy finished, determination gleaming in her eyes.
Seeing this look Finnick realized that this wasn't going to end anytime soon. Finnick knew Judy was a stubborn mammal, and even if he blew her off today, she'd be back again, especially since she knew where his gym was.
"Fine," Finnick sighed, "I'm about to head over to the diner to start work, so if you come, sit at the counter, and order something I'll answer your damn questions about foxes and about Wilde."
"Really? Thanks Finnick!" Judy beamed excitedly.
"Don't thank me yet, Officer Toot-toot; I won't be spillin' any of his secrets! We foxes of former crime have a code to follow, now hop in and we'll be on our way." Finnick grumbled as he made his way to the driver's seat and started the van, driving off without even checking if Judy was inside.
The Mid-Bite Diner, Downtown Savannah Central, 7:30pm
The Mid-Bite diner hadn't changed in the few weeks since Judy had last been there, its simple sheet metal exterior with red neon lights running along the top still making the diner look like it was pulled straight out of the seventies. The old vixen Helen was there too, the fur on top of her head still fluffed up, and an excessive number of bracelets still jingling on her wrist.
"Finny, you brought a friend!" Helen exclaimed excitedly as Finnick and Judy entered the diner.
"Calm down Helen, and I wouldn't exactly call her a friend, it's just Judy Hopps the Bunny Cop, she was here with Nick a few weeks ago remember?"
"Ohhh I remember you, how have you been sweetie?" Helen asked as Judy took her seat at the bar.
"I've been good, working a lot and counting the days until Nick graduates." Judy said dismissively as she started reading the menu.
"Graduates, from what?" Helen asked questioningly.
"Nick didn't tell you? He's at the Zootopia Police Academy, he's gonna be a cop!" Judy explained proudly.
Helen just stood there, dumfounded as her jaw fell to the floor, "Nicky's going to be a cop?"
"Yeah," Judy said nervously as she remembered how Nick said foxes in general didn't like cops. But before Judy could say anything to remedy the situation Helen let out a cheer drawing the curious gazes of the other mammals in the diner.
"Oh, I knew that boy would get his act together one of these days! But I will have to give him an earful for not telling me when he gets back. Finny did you know about this?"
"Yeah I did, and before you say anything else I wasn't going to tell you unless Nick did, and since you never brought it up, I figured he hadn't told you," Finnick replied as he took his place behind the stove.
"You're the pits," Helen said, pouting for a moment before turning back to Judy with a big smile.
"So what brings you back? I mean I know this place is great and all but it's not a place smaller prey like yourself would normally visit," Helen said bluntly.
"O-oh, well you see, Finnick promised to tell me about fox culture and a little about Nick as long as I ordered some food," Judy explained as she put down her menu.
"Oh really," Helen said as she shot a raised eyebrow at Finnick, "well then, let me get your order so you can start asking your questions."
"Alright, I'll have the beet salad with a light balsamic vinaigrette dressing on the side please, and a water to go with it."
"Coming right up, Judy! Now Finny, I believe you owe this bunny some answers about 'Fox Culture,' and be quick about it," Helen said with a chuckle.
"You got it boss, I'll tell her all about 'Fox Culture'" Finnick said sarcastically, as he took his place at the grill, replacing the ferret who had been cooking when they came in.
"Why do you guys keep saying it like that?" Judy asked as Helen put a glass of water in front of her.
"Well, my dear bunny cop," Finnick said with a chuckle, "It's because what you're looking for isn't exactly a real thing."
"I don't understand."
"You see Judy, foxes don't share much culture between the different species, Fennec foxes like Finny come from the desert so their cultural stories and celebrations reflect that, while Red foxes like myself come from forests and such which is why Robin Hood, one of our greatest folk legends operated in Nottingham a land surrounded by forest." Helen clarified, deciding to take pity on the confused bunny.
"Oh, I see. I apologize for generalizing then, I didn't mean to." Judy said sincerely, her embarrassment clear on her face.
"No need to get all droopy eared, it's a common mistake. That said, most fox traditions and heroes have similarities. For example, the fox hero from 1000 and 1 Furabian Nights, Aladdin, a young thief who's the only mammal pure enough of heart to enter the cave of wonders. He finds a lamp with a Genie who grants three wishes, with those wishes he becomes a prince, marries a princess and after tricking an evil sorcerer lives happily ever after." Finnick explained quickly, not wanting to go into the whole legend.
"What is it with fox heroes and petty crime," Judy mused.
"Well, Officer Toot-Toot, it's because foxes have been looked down upon for as long as history has been recorded, so we created heroes that rise above that, or are revered for what we're hated for," Finnick said bluntly.
"Oh," Judy said awkwardly, not knowing what else to say.
"So, what specifically are you lookin' for, Miss Judy?" Helen asked as Judy sat silently sipping her water.
"Well, I'm not sure exactly. You see, I just wanted to know things to avoid now that I'm living with Nick."
"YOU'RE LIVING WITH NICKY!?" Helen shouted, getting every mammal in the diner to openly stare at her.
"Uhhh, yes? It was the best option since we'll work together and it allowed us to get a bigger place,"" Judy whispered, not wanting to give the other patrons more to stare at.
"Sure, I can dig that, but Nicky's such a loner I never would've guessed he'd live with someone else, even if it was a good deal." Helen remarked.
"True enough, that fox holds his secrets closer than a banker holds onto other mammals' money." Finnick grumbled.
"Well, as surprising as that is, I guess I can help ya out. Rule one is don't go in his room unless you're invited, we foxes are very territorial." Helen explained as Judy listened attentively.
"Don't try and parent him either, that's less a fox thing and more of a Nick thing, he's likely to disappear if you get too bossy," Finnick added
"Yeah Nicky has been known to drop mammals like a bad habit over stuff like that." Helen agreed.
The next few minutes passed this way, with either Helen or Finnick telling Judy how to best live with the fox known as Nick Wilde, everything from keeping curtains drawn to prevent hurting Nick's eyes, to how to best split responsibilities around the house so Judy wasn't stuck with all of them.
"And that's pretty much it; hope you were takin notes, Miss Judy," Helen said as she set Judy's salad down in front of her.
"Thanks Helen, I'll put all of it to good use," Judy said earnestly as she poured her dressing onto her salad.
"You better! Now, did you want to know anything else?" Finnick asked, feigning impatience.
"Could you tell me about how foxes show they're interested in another fox?" Judy asked in between bites of salad, trying as hard as she could to sound nonchalant.
"Now that's a choice piece of information, Miss Judy! Why might you want to know something like that?" Helen asked back curiously as she and Finnick shared a side-eyed look.
"Well, since I'll be working and living with Nick, it would be helpful to spot when he's interested in some vixen so I don't get in the way, or I can point out when some vixen is interested in him. Either way, it's good to know." Judy explained calmly; happy she'd come up with an excuse beforehand.
Oh that is such shit, she wants Nick, Finnick thought to himself, but before he could call Judy out on it he felt a paw smack the back of his head.
"Be nice, Finny," Helen whispered, "Let's just let this play out, ok?"
"Fine," Finnick grumbled.
"What was that?" Judy asked, having been unable to make out what the two were saying.
"Oh nothing, I was just telling Finny to keep an eye on the grill so he doesn't burn the food again. So, you want to learn for Nick's sake, Well, aren't you the helpful sort Judy, Nicky's lucky to have you lookin' out for him."
"I'm just trying to be a good friend," Judy said bashfully.
"I bet you are, now as far as Nicky making moves on a vixen, that's not how fox courtship works. The vixen is the one who will make the first actual move, until then a male will show interest by following the vixen around. If the vixen is interested, she'll make her move by literally pouncing on the Todd who has piqued her interest. After that the dating period begins, then it's a mix of little hints from the vixen that she's ready to move the relationship along, until they eventually either break up or get married." Helen explained, Judy listening intently, as she continued eating her salad.
"That's fascinating! So, the male will just follow the vixen around. That's pretty cool considering how pushy rabbit bucks can be." Judy said as she finished up her salad.
"Pretty much, sometimes if they're not getting anywhere by just following they'll try to show off in some way to make themselves look better; they might make jokes, sing, or help the vixen out in some way, anything to stand out and convince the vixen to give him a chance."
"Still better than being constantly pressured for dates." Judy lamented.
"So, has Nick ever tried singing for any vixens, because I hear his voice is something else." Judy said with a laugh.
"Nice try, Bunny Cop, but I ain't saying nothing," Finnick jeered. His words went unnoticed by both females however, as Judy's attention was on Helen.
"My goodness, something else doesn't even begin to describe it. That boy's voice is so moving, I just, aaahhh, I can't begin to describe it. I will say this though, if Nicky sang he could get just about any vixen he wanted and that's without using his smooth talking. What a voice he has and what a waste it is, since he never sings in front of people intentionally; I only figured it out after catching him singing as he came out of the restroom."
"But I thought-"
"That Nick was a terrible singer." Finnick said, cutting Judy off mid-sentence, "That's what he tells everyone, and that's why I wasn't going to say anything, but since Helen already spilled the beans, there's no use hiding it. Nick Wilde is one of the best singers I know."
"That's so like him," Judy said sadly, "Why is Nick like this? He's so closed off, he stays out of the spotlight, and downplays all the good things he does like he's allergic to recognition, and trying to learn about him is like pulling teeth, it's driving me crazy," Judy said, slamming her fist on the counter top.
"Heh, if you want Nick to be 'more open' and to tell you his past, you've got your work cut out for you, Bunny Cop, cus you ain't the first mammal to try," Finnick remarked cynically.
"What do you mean by that?" Judy asked accusingly.
"Not spillin anything else, I believe you learned enough" Finnick replied firmly.
Judy huffed, she could tell Finnick wasn't going to say anymore so she turned to Helen for assistance, but before Helen could say anything Finnick preemptively cut her off.
"Helen, I'd pick my next move very carefully if I was you. Nick has no trouble cutting people out of his life; say too much and you'll never see him again, I promise you."
Hearing this deflated the vixen, her tail falling completely limp as she turned to Judy, eyes downcast, "Sorry Judy."
"It's fine Helen, you've told me more than enough," Judy assured the now dejected vixen.
"That warning goes for you too Judy, be careful how fast and how deep you dig into Nick's personal matters, cus he can cut you off easier than you think," Finnick warned gruffly as he continued cooking.
"Thanks for the food and the warning, Finnick. I think I'll head home. Goodnight Helen," Judy said as she gently put some money on the counter and headed out.
The sun had gone down, and the wind had picked up by the time Judy began walking home, and as Judy pulled up Zoogle Maps to avoid getting lost she had to suppress a shiver that had nothing to do with the weather. Finnick's warning along with everything else she had learned was playing over and over again in Judy's head. But despite all that had been said and despite her own worries, Judy was still undeterred, and was determined to learn as much as she could.
Thanks for reading, if you enjoyed it feel free to drop a review down below, tell me what worked, what didn't, what you want to see, ect. I love hearing from you all. Also If for some reason you don't want to comment but still want to suggest something or talk to me personally don't hesitate to PM me, I'll respond when I have time.
Song Suggestion for this chapter is: The Scientist by Coldplay - It's a great song that was suggested to me by Toren6000.
I'll keep suggesting Music forever, feel free to ignore it or tell me what you thought of the song, also if you have a favorite song suggest it to me, music is a great thing that you can never have too much of.