This is part of a set of stories exploring the evolving friendship between Mr. Wolf and the youngster he half-willingly took under his wing in the first story "The FAN".
A question of consequences
By Agncec, 2022
To the would-be reader: this work is not affiliated with DreamWorks in any way. I do not lie claim to own any of the characters from the movie. The events herein are purely fictional and sprung out of the writer's own imagination. The mirror world where this story takes place is also different from ours (although there are overlaps), so if you like things "dark and realistic" do not continue reading as you may find this disheartening.
This story takes place approximately five years before the events in the movie.
Ethan Landau, aged (by his own reckoning) thirteen years, four months and five days, was in the school library finishing an essay when his smartphone jingled. A new message had arrived in the anonymous mail service app he used for very few purposes and that usually meant only one thing. Feeling a rush of excitement he unlocked the app and read the message from the sender BBW91:
"Sup kiddo! 5pm today at Heartland Café. Think you can make it? /W"
The smartphone clock displayed 3:00pm sharp. Factoring in the crammed commute and other possible delays there was still more than enough time. He wrote a short, affirmative reply, touched the send button and returned to the school work.
Two hours later Ethan arrived to the restaurant, unsurprised that it was quite crowded already. Scanning the premises he spotted a paw stretched into the air, lazily beckoning to him to come join it.
The owner of the paws sat alone at a table for two with a half-empty cup of black coffee in front of him. He was snazzily dressed in different hues of white and wore a wide-brimmed Panama hat. Two glinting yellow eyes, semi-hidden behind a pair of brown tinted sunglasses, followed Ethan as he made his way towards them.
-Good afternoon, mister Poodleton.
-Hello Ethan. Wolf said, smiling. How are you?
-Pretty good seeing it's Friday and where I am right now. Ethan placed his rucksack on the floor and sat down in the empty chair. What about you? There has been nothing in the news lately. Are you planning something big?
-Come on, you know the rules of the game: no peeking into my business! It's not for young ears.
-But you ARE, aren't you? Ethan smirked knowingly as he eyed the notorious criminal sitting across the table.
-You don't want to STOP seeing me, do you? Wolf said, giving the boy a piercing stare over the edge of the sunglasses.
-No!
-Then stop asking.
-Sorry...
-Good.
-But you are being unfair.
-Look, it's with YOUR best interest at heart that I keep you at an arm's length from my work!
-Okay.
-And no more objections!
-Yes, sir.
-Jeez... Wolf sighed, rubbing his forehead. And for your information I'm pretty good too, despite you being a pain in my tail.
He lowered the glasses to peer at the boy, then smirked kindly.
-Okay Ethan, what do you want to drink?
After the waitress had come with a lemon ice-tea in a fancy glass Wolf leaned forward.
-So... Made any friends yet?
-I'm working on it. Ethan replied and drank a big gulp of tea.
-You've got to work harder.
-Wish I could switch schools. That would make it easier.
-Oh? Wolf tilted his head.
-The others are kinda...afraid of me. "Intimidated", you might say.
-How come?
-I am very good at put-downs and I usually prefer being left alone. Ethan said and shrugged his shoulders. Also, they kept asking to copy my homework. Like I would let them!
-And you think that's ALL they wanted from you?
-I guess so. Although...sometimes they invited me to come sit at their table in the school cafeteria. I always declined because they were probably going to ask me about homework anyway.
-They were PROBABLY going to ask you, huh? Wolf raised an eyebrow. But DID they?
-Of course not, because I said no. But I knew they were going...
-Hey, hold on a second here! You knew?
-That was all they ever asked of me so OBVIOUSLY they intended to ask me again!
Wolf groaned inwardly, bit his tongue and just looked at the boy in front of him.
-What?! Ethan exclaimed when the silent stare became too uncomfortable.
-You assumed that if you had sat down at their table in the cafeteria, your classmates would have asked to copy your homework. Am I getting this straight?
-Yes, and...
-You ASSUMED?
Ethan's looked down at his glass of ice tea.
Wolf waited patiently. He was in no hurry to rush this.
-Right. Ethan said after a while, looking up again. I always assumed that's what they were going to ask me.
-You know what they say about assuming things? It makes an A. out of YOU and ME?
-I am aware of the idiom.
-Bet you don't assume facts when doing homework. Wolf lowered his glasses and winked.
-No. I always read the required literature and put in the proper references.
-Exactly!
-But what does THAT have to do with anything?
-Everything. You think it's okay to assume people but not facts?
-People are SO predictable.
-Including me, huh?
-No.
-Tell you what, Ethan. Many things are predictable, just like you say. But a whole lot aren't and people can be especially tricky to figure out.
Wolf leaned forward and pinned the boy with his yellow eyes.
-Imagine I got REAL hungry right now and decided this smart kid in front of me looks an absolute TREAT!
-You wouldn't!
-Can you be so sure? Wolf asked softly, his eyes narrowing dangerously.
-Yes.
-What makes you assume that? And think hard before you answer me, okay?
Ethan went silent and Wolf reclined in his chair sipping coffee while waiting.
-First, the boy said after some time had passed, I am sure you like me and you wouldn't eat someone you like. Two, you are too much in control of yourself to do such a thing on a whim. Three, we humans reputedly don't taste very good at all. Four...
-Got the first one very right! Wolf interrupted. The rest are less important. But what makes you assume I like you?
-You spend time with me when you could be doing something else?
-Full points! And today's main lesson is: why WOULD you want to spend time with someone?
-Because it feels good?
-Perfect! Now, maybe your classmates would have felt good spending time with you if you'd HELPED them with their homework? Not just letting them copying it and without putting them down and all that.
-I don't know... Ethan shrugged.
-Remember what I told you the first time we met? About what to do when you felt people were being dumb?
-There is a difference between being dumb and being lazy! Ethan said pointedly. Letting my class mates freeload on me seems a poor way to make friends.
-It could be an ice-breaker and you don't have to do the work FOR them. Just give them a little guidance.
-Guidance? Ethan looked at Wolf dubiously.
-What do you think I'm currently doing to you? Wolf grinned and emptied the cup.
-But they don't ask me anything anymore. I drove them all away!
-Try making an offer when the teach hands you a real tough one. Ask someone you'd WANT to be friends with.
Ethan went quiet for a while.
-Got someone in mind?
-Yes.
-Feel like giving it a try?
-I guess so. He's pretty smart though and may not require my help.
-Only one way to find out. Wolf said evenly. You've got to be a bit gutsy! Think you can do it?
-Maybe... Yes.
-Well, that concludes today's session of my "Making Friends" class. You've got your homework set and I expect a full report next time! And you know what? Counselling really gets my appetite going. I could eat just about anything right now!
Wolf stared ravenously at Ethan who assumed a hilariously sceptical expression.
-Sure, tell me another one.
-Heh! Trusting me completely, aren't you?
-Almost, anyway.
-I didn't lie about feeling famished and this place makes some mean burgers. You like burgers?
-Doesn't everybody?
Wolf grinned, nodded and waved to get the waitress' attention.
Fifteen minutes later the food arrived and at first Ethan didn't touch it, being far too intent on studying Wolf eagerly chomping down on his hamburger.
Wolf chewed, swallowed and wiped his black lips with the table napkin.
-Didn't your mom ever tell you not to stare at people while they're eating?
-Sorry! Couldn't help myself. You can watch ME eat and we will call it even?
Ethan bit into the massive burger under Wolf's amused watch, chewed meticulously before swallowing and finalising the demonstration by wiping his mouth properly.
-Delicious!
Wolf raised a brow, then they both chuckled and resumed eating, only this time with considerably less talk.
-Thank you for treating me, mister Wo...Poodleton I mean! Ethan said once he had finished. That hamburger was truly excellent.
-Best in town. And you're welcome.
-Hope I'm not about to become your dessert?
-Hah, no! But you already knew that, didn't you?
Ethan nodded and smiled happily, knowing he was currently living one of life's perfect little moments. He drank deeply from his coke bottle then asked the question that had been tickling his brain.
-Do you always eat your burgers with such relish?
-What can I say, I am a fast eater. Wolf answered, picking his fangs discreetly. Never know when the next meal is gonna be.
-Some experts claim eating too fast will make you fat, but you are as fit as a fiddle. For now.
-Thank you for that dubious compliment, you rude little pup! Wolf smirked.
-Calling me a PUP is also considered poor manners so I am NOT going to apologise. Ethan retorted, eyes twinkling.
Then all by a sudden his body tensed up.
-Uh-oh... We've got trouble.
Wolf turned his head.
Two burly men were making their way through the restaurant, guffawing and purposely bumping into the dining people as they went.
No one seemed to have the guts to object and wisely so, Wolf thought, seeing how the two were clearly looking for any excuse to start something. Piranha sure would have loved meeting them...
-Hey! Watch it, punk! The taller of the men snarled as he bumped into Ethan's chair.
-What?! YOU walked into ME!
-Huh? The man stopped dead in his tracks. You said somethin'?!
-I suppose I can't blame you. Bumbling around indoors wearing shades you simply MUST have a vision defect! Forgot your white cane back home?
-Be quiet, Ethan! Wolf said severely, his teeth clenched.
-Better listen to your old man, pal! I'm letting you off, this time, 'cus I'm SUCH a nice guy.
The two men continued doing their thing until, at last, they exited the premises.
Ethan shot them a lingering, loathing glance.
-I don't think it's over yet. He commented darkly. Seems they are going for the consolation prize.
Loud shouts of verbal abuse travelled into the restaurant from the street outside. The troublemakers had encountered three similar characters and they apparently were in agreement that the sidewalk wasn't big enough for all of them. The cursing quickly turned into a brawl, lasting a few intense minutes before the police arrived and put a stop to the whole thing. At that point Ethan stood up and briskly headed for the entrance.
-Hey, what are you... Wait! Excuse me! Wolf stopped the passing waitress and put down a fistful of ten dollar bills. Is this enough? I've got to hurry or my...student may do something he shouldn't!
-Yes and thank you for your patronage, sir! The waitress smiled and started clearing the table.
Outside the restaurant Ethan was looking down at the man with the shades, which hung cracked and broken on the tip of his nose, while two officers were busy cuffing him.
-Hello again. Ethan spoke politely, the scorn in his voice thinly veiled. Can't you see that is asphalt you are eating now? Be mindful not to choke on it. It's hazardous, you see.
-Why you little sh...!
-Come on Ethan, let's get out of here.
Wolf put a paw firmly on the boy's shoulder and steered him away from the scene.
-What an idiot! Ethan exclaimed as they went down the sidewalk in the evening sun. How can somebody be so DUMB? I don't understand!
-That's rich, coming from you! Wolf said sharply.
-What?!
-You just can't stop your smart mouth from fuelling fires, can you? For such a clever kid you sure act real dumb!
-I am the one acting dumb?! Ethan said, his voice trembling with indignation.
-Yes. YOU!
-But they...
-WHY did you have to PROVOKE that bozo? Huh?!
Wolf glared angrily at the boy walking beside him.
-He bumped into me on purpose! Ethan answered heatedly.
-And you start running your put-down routine! What good did you think that was gonna do you?
-I won't let somebody step on me!
-And neither would he! Ever thought he could've smacked you around real bad? He sure looked like he was about to!
-But you wouldn't have let him, right?
-Of course I wouldn't have let him! But what do you think would have happened?
Leaning over, Wolf hissed so only Ethan would hear: -I'd be unmasked and YOU would be connected to ME!
The boy stopped dead, his face freezing up.
-You're far too impulsive! It's gonna get you into real trouble if you carry on like that! What if you run into the same guy again and he recognises you? Think I'll be around to save you then?
Wolf stared at the busy street intersection ahead without sparing Ethan a single glance. The silence dragged on as chattering people passed them by.
-Have YOU never made a mistake?!
He turned around to look down at the boy whose face was now haggard and distraught.
-I want to teach you ONE more thing this evening. Wolf said plainly as he crouched down and put both paws on Ethan's shoulders.
-I have made many, many mistakes, you know. If I hadn't learnt my lessons we never would have met and I'd be busy painting car registration plates in jail. Keeping a cool head, Wolf tapped his own temple, and considering the consequences of my actions, are my two secrets to success. I want to pass them on to YOU.
Ethan was looking at the adults who kept walking past them before finally having worked up enough courage to look back. He had expected the worst but Wolf's eyes were kind.
-Think you've got my second lesson?
-Guess I have.
-You have to thread carefully, Ethan. THINK. Then act. Or be ready to deal with any consequences. Follow me?
-Yes.
-Good. Wolf squeezed his shoulders. I expected no less from you. Now... How are you planning to get home?
-I usually travel by Metro.
-I'll walk you to the station. Chin up! Things didn't turn out as bad as they could have.
They made their way among the evening clutter of people and vehicles without hurry. As the shadows grew longer Ethan kept throwing nervous glances behind them.
-Mister Wo...Poodleton?
-Yeah?
-What should I do if I run into the same guy again?
-Act normal and get out of there fast. If he corners you, just say you're sorry even if you aren't. That probably would get you off the hook. Are you scared?
-No. Maybe a little... I hate being trodden on. Bet no one would have dared, had it been YOU!
-Hey! Wolf said, nudging the boy gently.
-Sorry. Ethan muttered, looking down. You never scared me though. I think people are being unfair, viewing you as some sort of monster. Goes to show what THEY know...
Wolf inhaled sharply and thanked his lucky star there was a relatively narrow and obscure alleyway to their immediate left. Pulling Ethan along he quickly sidestepped into it.
-Hey wha...?
-Quiet! Wolf hissed and stepped behind a big dumpster.
The place was filthy and the air thick with unpleasant odours but desperate times called for desperate measures.
-Why did you...oh! Ethan stopped abruptly upon seeing Wolf's tail wagging deftly back and forth behind him.
-Y-you just can't SAY things like that to me in PUBLIC!
-I...but...you... Ethan put a hand across his mouth.
-Go ahead and laugh it all out! Wolf said furiously, trying in vain to get his irresponsible body part under control while avoiding to step into something foul. We're gonna stay in this stinky place for as long as it takes!
-For WHAT? Ethan chortled. You getting over somebody LIKING YOU?
-You are NOT helping! Wolf growled, his tail wagging even faster.
-S-s-sorry...
Ethan tried recomposing himself but whenever his gaze fell upon the flustered wolf he kept bursting back into giggles. That is, until a fat lumbering rat brushed past his feet.
-YIKES! A rat!
-What, where?!
-Nowhere now. Ethan looked around with distaste before brightening up, pointing at Wolf's behind. Seems all you needed was a little distraction! Can we go now?
Wolf glanced over his shoulder and found the tail had indeed gone placid and at last suffered itself to be re-hidden up the back of his blazer.
-I guess so. Hey, Ethan, I really appreciate you...
-Just get over it! Ethan interrupted, impatiently. Don't get all mushy on me!
-Riii-iight. Wolf smirked. Let's do as a wolf and get the pack out of here, huh?
-Yes please!
They hurriedly left the alley and discreetly disappeared into the bustling crowds.
To be continued...