Chapter 24
-Nick-
I just can't believe I did it.
I did it.
I just couldn't believe that six months had finally passed. I had to admit that part of me was sad to leave this place. It kind of felt like home if it weren't for the fact that Judy wasn't here.
While I was putting on my new uniform, I thought about my last week at the ZPA. I had managed to pass all my written exams with the highest scores and also got the top grades on the physical areas.
When the drill sergeant had announced that tomorrow I was going to be named valedictorian of my class, everyone congratulated me. I had made many good friends and acquaintances. I hoped that more than one would be assigned at precinct one.
I called Judy several times to deliver the good news but she didn't pick up. I wondered if she was fine. I had made a deal with Clawhauser and he was supposed to call me if anything happened to her so I stop worrying. Maybe she was just busy.
I had told her the date of my graduation and of course invited her. She even said she would get the weekend off so we could go and celebrate. Perhaps she was working extra hours to compensate.
The lights went out and I had to get into my bed. I texted her 'Hope to see you tomorrow' before I fell asleep.
By morning I saw that my message had been delivered and read but still I got no response from her. She usually was awake at this time on Fridays so I tried hard not to worry even more.
I went to get a shower and get ready for the graduation ceremony. I was putting on my new uniform and looking at the mirror. The fox who was looking back at me seemed a stranger. But in a good way. That fox looked healthier, prouder and happier.
Before I left my room I grabbed my aviators since I was going to be standing at the sun for a while. I took my phone with me and checked again if there was anything from Judy. Nothing.
Now I was standing along my classmates, drinking coffee, in front of the stage where the Major of Zootopia was rambling about who knows what. I glanced constantly at the crowd behind us. Apart from Judy I only invited Finnick who said would not show up under any circumstances.
There was not sign of Judy anywhere.
I just sighed and tried not to feel anxious about it. I saw that now Major Friedkin was behind the podium speaking about the mammal who was going to be delivering our badges.
And that's when I saw her.
She was wearing a uniform just like mine and was walking towards the stage, disappearing behind the podium. She climbed some steps and then I was able to see her head and torso popping up.
My chest swelled with pride just by looking at her there. She thanked everyone for coming and congratulated us. She began her speech and I listened to every word she said. Her optimism was contagious.
That was my bunny.
The hero of Zootopia.
My bunny.
I was called last by Judy. She referred to me as valedictorian of my class and first fox officer. She stood in front of me and put my badge on my uniform. As weird as it seemed she seemed proud, smiling at me the whole time. I just wanted to kiss her but I knew I couldn't.
Not yet, anyway.
How I didn't realize it before was beyond me but now there was no doubt in my mind.
I was absolutely in love with Judy Hopps.
And I didn't care to hide it as she saluted me with that beautiful smile and I saluted her back.
-Judy-
I could barely contain my excitement. My boyfriend was graduating valedictorian of his class. He looked the most handsome I had ever seen him and also the happiest.
The ceremony had ended and we went to gather his belongings at his dorm.
Nick told me that for the first time he felt like a part of something. A part of a pack. I totally understood what he meant. I knew that had been his childhood dream and I was happy to see him realizing his dream had come true.
"I'm so proud of you, Nick." I told him softly.
"I'm just following your footsteps." He shrugged and smiled at me.
We hugged strongly for a few moments and said goodbye to the ZPA.
Nick said he didn't feel like going to celebrate with the rest of the class. He claimed he had had enough of them and just wanted to be with me.
I wasn't gonna say no to that. I was craving for time with my fox and I was joyful that I was gonna have him for an entire weekend.
After what felt like a very long trip, we got to Nick's apartment and settled.
He went to the kitchen and got us some drinks that Finnick had left there as per his request and then he sat at the couch by my side.
"Is it weird to say that I'm gonna miss my training?" He asked me.
"Getting nostalgic already, Officer Wilde?" I teased.
"I guess a little…" He trailed off. "Wait. Can you call me that again?"
"What?" I continue teasing. "Officer Wilde?" I couldn't stop myself.
"Yes," he said in a lower voice looking at me intently.
I could not resist anymore. I jumped into his arms, closing the gap between us and kissed him ardently.